Mrs. D
I have taught English, Spanish, and German in Europe, the U.S., and Central America. My experience includes college teaching and school administration. I am married with two children and write textbooks as well as multimedia materials.
Read More »
...
- Page Views
- 265,708
- Content
- 59
- Fans
- 2
- Contributor since
- 9/22/2006
Education/Experience
BA/MT University of VirginiaInterests
Foreign languages, education, travel, gardening, crafts, parenthood, child development, reading, home renovationFavorites
None yet.Fans
Displaying Results 1 - 59 (of 59) for Yahoo! Voices
-
Doumar's Great Cones and BBQA local tradition, Doumar's hasn't changed much since 1934. Founder, Abe Doumar, a Syrian immigrant, is world-famous for inventing the ice cream at the World's Fair in 1904. Great ice cream, great BBQ, and great atmosphere can be found at Doumar's.
-
Simple Tips for the 40-Something+ Job SeekerEconomic times are tough. Being out of work as a middle-aged person can be daunting in a society that values youth over the wisdom that comes with age. There are simple ways to play up your strengths as an experienced worker while not appearing outdated.
-
Christopher Farms Elem - Dedicated to ExcellenceCFES is an outstanding school, home to the only partial Spanish Immersion program in South Hampton Roads. This school boasts an excellent faculty and administration, a very active PTA, and great students from a mix of military and civilian families. -
How to Get More Out of Your Student Teaching ExperienceStudent teaching can be overwhelming but you can learn more than the typical student teacher if you keep these tips in mind. Teaching is about much more than lesson plans and a good student teacher will keep that in mind during the practicum experience.
-
Unique Valentine's Day Activities in Virginia Beach, VirginiaVirginia Beach with its mild climate and coastal location is an ideal spot for an exciting Valentine's Day experience outdoors. Even if the weather keeps you inside,there are many unique experiences to be had in the city!
-
Big Dog or Not?Ever since the news came out that President Obama was considering a labradoodle for the position of First Dog, I have had this article churning around in my head. Big dogs are a breed apart. Are you really ready for a big dog? -
Make Christmas Decorations for Free!Few store bought decorations can rival the simple, timeless elegance, charm, and low cost of decorations made out of natural items.
-
School Shopping Tips for Elementary SchoolSchool shopping has been blown out of proportion! Just buy the essentials and ease into the school year without feeling stressed out/. -
Back-to-School Breakfasts and LunchesBe creative and come up with a back-to-school event that will wow your school's faculty and staff. -
Last-Minute Stocking Stuffers for Young ChildrenOnce you have a list to get you focused, it isn't hard to pick up stocking stuffers in one of two large discount stores. Here are some ideas for 3-5's and 6-8's!
-
Spelling Word Practice - Simple Ideas for Busy ParentsIf spelling word practice sessions and the toothpulling that is required to get your child to do it are stressing you out, here are some easy ways to liven it up just enough to interest your child.
-
New Year's Eve at Home with the KidsJust because you are staying home with the kids doesn't mean that New Year's Eve has to be boring. Here are some ways to celebrate with the kids.
-
Office Party Gifts for $20 and UnderIt is easy to create an original gift package for your office party once you come up with a fun theme.
-
Where to Find Gifts for Young Children that Are NOT Made in ChinaSimple, creative toys that are NOT made in China are readily available. There are safe, natural toys that inspire imaginative play that are made in the United States, Europe, and other parts of the world without the use of toxic materials.
-
Christmas / Holiday Office Party IdeasHere are ten ways to liven up your office Christmas party or holiday event. It doesn't have to be same-old, same-old if you think creatively!
-
Easy No-Sew Ideas to Jazz Up Halloween CostumesEasy homemade touches that don't involve sewing or much time at all can really personalize your child's Halloween costume!
-
Late-Summer Family Fun Activities: Making the Most of AugustSummers are long, but they seems to fly by! Make the most of the last month of summer by doing some special activities in August!
-
End-of-the-Year Group Gifts for Elementary School TeachersSentimental letters and cards along with a nice class gift will show your deep appreciation for your teacher's efforts this school year!
-
Fun Outdoor Activities for Young KidsWith a little preparation and forethought, you and your kids can have a fun summer enjoying the great outdoors!
-
Blush Comparison: Revlon Pinch Me Gel Blush Vs. Maybelline Dream Mousse BlushBoth Revlon Pinch Me Gel Blush and Maybelline Dream Mousse were highly touted by fashion magazines but came up very short in my book! I continue my search for a great, affordable blush!
-
Summer Jobs Around Virginia Beach, VirginiaTourist mecca, Virginia Beach, Virginia, has so many summer employment opportunities that employers even hire and house young people for Eastern Europe to fill vacancies!
-
Virginia Tech Tragedy Highlights Need to Prohibit Guns in U.S.Sleepy Blacksburg, Virginia and its pride, Virginia Tech, will long be the unfortunate symbols for the dire need for gun control in the U.S.
-
How to Make Family Household Chore Time Fun and EffectiveEveryone hates housework, but by adding a few fun aspects to the task, you can teach your children responsibility in an enjoyable way!
-
Your New Neighborhood: What to Look for When Buying a New HouseEveryone knows what they want in a house, but just as important is what you want in your new neighborhood. Here are some ideas on what to consider when searching for the best neighborhood for you.
-
Making Your Dysfunctional Committee, PTA, or Community Group Work AgainPut the spark back into your volunteer organization with these ideas.
-
Simple Ways to Practice Kindergarten Sight Words and Elementary Spelling WordsThe boredom of repetitive practice of sight words and spelling lists is easy to counteract with some fun and simple-to-create activities.
-
Buying a Home: 6 Essential Things to Ask During the Walk-ThroughHere are some essential questions I always forget to ask when purchasing a home! Better to ask at the walk-through than to move into your new home lacking basic instructions, information, and essential items that make it work!
-
Easter Crafts for Young ChildrenAfter a long winter, Easter is full of new life, perfect for little children! Here are crafts to do with your young children featuring beautiful Easter pastels, baby animals, and spring flowers help to usher in this special time!
-
Romantic Weekend Escapes Near Hampton Roads, VirginiaThere are many romantic getaways within two to three hours of the Hampton Roads area of southeastern Virginia thanks to the region's rich history and natural beauty. Here are some of the less traveled getaways that I highly recommend.
-
Four Active Outdoor Hula Hoop Games for Young ChildrenHere are some super-easy games to play with just a hula hoop or two! These are simple ways to get outdoors and get those kids moving!
-
Butcher Paper Activities for Young ChildrenWith a simple roll of butcher paper and some crayons or markers, you can liven up any boring afternoon and make it a fun and educational experience!
-
Valentine's Day Crafts for Young ChildrenKids love getting creative and making special surprises for their loved ones. Here are a few fun and easy crafts to do for Valentine's Day with your young child!
-
DIY Home Improvement Project: Easy Playroom Desk and StorageHere is an easy and affordable way to create more storage and a huge desktop for your playroom or home office using seconds and discounted items.
-
Winter Activities in Virginia Beach, VAThe mild weather in Virginia Beach allows you to participate in many outdoor activities during the winter months. Local museums and attractions are pleasantly empty during the tourist off-season. Walks on the quiet beaches are spectacular on warmish afternoons! -
Comments on Gwyneth Paltrow's "Anti-American" ViewsWhile Gwyneth may have gone too far with her "misconstrued" anti-American comments, some of what she says may be true.
-
Easy Christmas Ornaments to Make with the Kids!Making ornaments with your kids or grandkids will give you a collection of priceless memories that will be relived each holiday as you pull out these treasured crafts. Make it a special day with carols playing and cookies baking! -
Twenty-Five Great White Elephant Gift IdeasWhite elephants are all those things we have lying around the house that have outlived their purpose and are just taking up space but we can't bear to throw them out! Many are eyesores on top of that! So go on, declutter, regift, donate! -
Simple Christmas Traditions Add Peace to the SeasonIn these times of "extreme Christmas" - the overload of gifts, decorations, music, adn events starting the day after Halloween - it's nice to remember long-lost traditions and to reincorporate those for a simpler, more serene holiday season. -
Buyer Beware: Tips on Buying an Older HomeOlder homes in well-established neighborhoods are wonderful, but there are some specific things to look for before you sign on the dotted line!
-
Habitat for Humanity General Store - Treasure Trove for the Bargain Remodeler!Save the environment, contribute to Habitat for Humanity homes, and find some great bargains for your home at the Habitat for Humaniity ReStore near you! -
What Are Tapas?Tapas are a rich and varied culinary tradition in Spain. Read on for some of my favorites plus a few recipes. Take a hint from the wonderful Spanish culture and savor your food as well as the company you keep! -
Holidays by the Sea in Historic Hampton RoadsThe unique combination of history and a seaside location makes the holiday season in the Hampton Roads, Virginia region extra special. From lighted boat parades to colonial Christmas festivities, you'll find plenty to do from Thanksgiving to the New Year! -
Are We Superior? Where Does the U.S. Stand Among the Nations of the World?The U.S. is a glorious experiment in diversity and the checks and balances of government. But do we have something to learn from other nations in the world? Are we actually as superior as some of us think?
-
More Ways to Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten - a Parent-Teacher's View in HindsightShoes with rubber soles, the right backpack neatly labeled, positive talk about how fun school would be - we did all these things but there were a few more things I wish I had done!
-
Local's Lowdown on Virginia Beach!Virginia Beach may not be the nightlife hotspot you are looking for, but there is a "ton" to do and breathtaking views can be found all around you if you venture away from the Boardwalk and the "strip". -
Flyswatter - Fun and Effective Review Game Adaptable to Any Topic!Flyswatter is the teacher's old favorite. It's a fun and active game that provides an easy review of virtually any subject matter.
-
When is Big Too Big? Thoughts on the New American House and LifestyleDo you remember all of the neighbors sitting outside on a summer evening because it was too hot to be inside? The family sleeping together in the one room with AC? Smaller homes are better for the family and the community and here's why!
-
Best Children's Physical Education Class Around and at a Very Affordable PriceIf you have a 3-5 year-old and are looking for a fun and healthy activity, look no further than the outstanding Pat in the Hat program at the Princess Anne Recreation Center - variety, fun, fitness, friendships, and excellent instructors!
-
Special Gift Ideas for the Stay-At-Home Mom (SAHM)If your stay-at-home mom already has enough stuff and you can't think of anything special to give her, check out these unique gift ideas that can even be purchased online! -
The Home Emporium - - the Best-Kept Secret in Home RemodelingThe Home Emporium is a remodeler and decorator's dream with affordable prices and even some great deals, as well as an incredible array of goods! From granite countertops to Asian pottery, you'll find it here!
-
Norfolk Botanical Garden - Blooms, Fun, and Adventure for All!The Norfolk Botanical Garden offers an affordable day of beautiful plants, fun activities, and peaceful strolls. The WOW Garden for children is incredible fun and educational! Year-round activities and blooms make this a great visit any time of year.
-
Fun Way to Practice Spelling with Your KindergartnerIf you have a budding speller at home, try this easy and fun activity to practice the spelling of common three-letter words! Later, adapt the activity to four-letter words! -
Journals in the Foreign Language ClassroomProviding a guided journal topic allows you to give the students the freedom to be creative while still incorporating learned grammatical constructions. Value their thoughts and respond with your thoughts, not corrections.
-
4 Great Outdoor Gifts for Your Active Child!Let's get these kids outside and moving! Forget the video games and electronic toys this year and make playing outdoors fun again! Outdoor play is healthy too! -
4 Gifts that Inspire Creative Play: Four- to Six-Year-OldsHelp spark your child's imagination with these creative toys that are simply loads of fun and that offer endless possibilities for imaginative play. No buzzing, flashing, or beeping - just good, plain old fun! -
Interesting Ways to Use a Boring Foreign Language Textbook ReadingMost foreign language textbooks used in schools are boring and sadly outdated. If you have to "use the book", use these ideas to spice up your textbook reading activities!
-
Preparing for the Parent-Teacher ConferenceMany parents feel intimidated by the thought of the parent-teacher conference. Being prepared will help ease the tension. -
Lesson Ideas for Teaching Imperfect Vs. PreteriteImperfect vs. preterite is a difficult concept to present in the foreign language class. Make the grammar real to your students by providing a little drama! Relate the grammar to their own experiences and watch them communicate in the target language!
-
Three Unique Ways to Use Crossword Puzzles in the ClassroomLiven your classroom up by using some creative alternatives to the traditional crossword puzzle. You'll be sure to hold your students' attention with these fun activities!