Teaching, journaling, and finding joy—one page at a time.
Hi, I’m Stephanie—writer, educator, wife, mom, and lifelong notebook-carry-er. Here on Writing Mindset, I share real-life reflections on motherhood, wellness, creative journaling, intentional planning, and teaching reading and writing to kids. Whether I’m scribbling ideas in the margins, testing out a new recipe from Pinterest, or savoring my third cup of coffee (no shame!), this space is all about finding joy in the everyday and using writing as a tool to live more mindfully.
About Me

Start a Nature Journal
Ready for Spring? Use a Nature Journal to Observe, Reflect, and Learn
Have you ever noticed the first green buds of spring or the sound of birds returning after winter and wished you could capture the moment? A nature journal might be your new favorite tool for observing and reflecting on the changing seasons. If, at the beginning of the year, you wanted to deepen your connection with the outdoors but didn’t know where to start, this project could be just what you’re looking for. Let’s explore what a nature journal is and how you can start one tailored to your life—whether you're a teacher, a parent, or simply someone who finds joy in the natural world.
Today, nature journals are as unique as their creators. Think of it like your personal scrapbook of seasonal discoveries—only in physical form.
Observe and Record: Sketch or describe what you see in nature—buds on trees, blooming flowers, or changing cloud patterns.
Capture Sounds and Sensations: Write down bird songs, the feeling of the sun on your skin, or the scent of fresh rain.
Track Seasonal Changes: Note the first signs of spring and compare them over time to see patterns year after year.
Include Creative Elements: Press flowers, create leaf rubbings, or add watercolor sketches to bring your observations to life.
Reflect and Connect: Use your journal to write about how time spent in nature affects your mood, thoughts, and creativity.
With just a notebook and a few simple tools, you can create a beautiful record of spring’s arrival and your personal connection to the natural world.

Brewed for Success: Mindset Minis
Sip, Savor, Shift – Quick learning sessions to energize your mindset, one coffee break at a time.
Resources Available:
How to Teach Narrative Summary
Make a Claim, Evidence, Reason Paragraph
Start Using QuickWrites Now (Coming Soon!)
Teaching Students How to Elaborate (Coming Soon!)
Quick Reference Guide for Teaching Any Academic Essay (Coming Soon!)
Journal a Thought Garden (Coming Soon!)

The Writing Mindset Hub
Access free resources for teaching writing and working in any journal or notebook.
Current Resources Available:
Biography Writing Resources
Research Writing Resources
Mentor Text Resources
Informational Writing Resources
Narrative Writing Resources
Teaching Inspiration Resources
Argumentative Writing Resources
Journaling for Teachers
Substitute Plans
Book Lists/Recommendations
Canva Templates
Grading Writing Resources
Poetry Writing Resources
Journaling Decoration Resources
Generative Writing Resources

Literacy & Teaching Workshops
Writing Together: Building Writing Communities in All Subject Areas
Together, let’s amplify voices and foster strong writing communities.
Writing Together is a comprehensive collection of resources and workshops designed to support educators in enhancing writing instruction across all content areas. These workshop materials provide valuable tools and strategies to help schools establish a unified approach to writing.
Included in this resource collection are resources that focus on the four tenets of building writing communities:
Collaborative Environment through Speaking and Listening
Inspiring Joy
Using a Common Language and Common Writing Process
Using Mentor Texts
The goal is to empower educators with the confidence and competence to improve student writing skills through effective and cohesive teaching methods.

Inside Writing Mindset
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Teaching
The teaching category on Writing Mindset offers resources and insights on disciplinary literacy, English language arts, and writing instruction, all aimed at enriching classroom practices. Explore mentor texts, lesson examples, and strategies to deepen literacy across subjects and inspire student writers.
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Journaling
The journaling category on Writing Mindset is your go-to for product recommendations, creative layout ideas, and inspiring journaling prompts. Whether you’re new to journaling or looking to refresh your practice, you’ll find tips and inspiration to make every page meaningful.
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Motherhood
The motherhood category on Writing Mindset shares heartfelt affirmations, creative learning ideas, and honest reflections on navigating life with a toddler. It’s a space to find encouragement, practical tips, and relatable moments in the journey of early motherhood.
New Blog Posts
