WHOA NELLY! HOLD YOUR HORSES! I MAY BE GETTING TOO BIG FOR MY BRITCHES! Yes.....I sometimes get carried away with thematic language when I am teaching an integrated ELA unit, and it just seemed to be the best way to begin this post that I am linking up to for a  cowboy-themed Thematic Thursday this week!  I just had to mosey on over and share some of my favorite stories, songs, and ideas!  Thanks to my dear friend Carla over at Comprehension Connection for the opportunity! HOST TO  A CLASSROOM READING RODEO Many  summers ago, my family vacationed together near Lead, South Dakota, my mother's hometown and a place that we traveled to for many years while growing up.  While there, I was inspired by all things rustic and western, and came home to transform Room #2 into the Rockin' R Ranch! Here are a few photos from the trip that shaped my "vision!"  Imagine sitting on the deck of this lodge house, sipping coffee, and waking up ......