Somedays Drastic Measures Have to Be Taken
When the talking and giggling won't stop!
May 27, 2010
April 7, 2009
Homeschool Carnival 171 is Up and Growing!
Miss Jocelyn at A Pondering Heart has set up a lovely homeschooling carnival this week and it centers around the theme of gardening. Perfect timing and homeschooling fits right in! Go check it out!
April 1, 2009
Homeschooler Grows Up - Serving His Children
I met the Bach family about 14 years ago. We were attending the same church and frankly I thought they were a bit odd. After all, they had many children and they did something called homeschooling. They had home births and didn't do vaccinations. How kooky is that? But they were very nice people and very committed to serving the Lord. As I got to know them, I began to think they weren't so kooky and I credit them for the fact that I homeschool today.
Over the years I have been impressed by the kindness of the children, the way the family reaches out and serves others and their faith and trust in God. The family has a business called Many Blessings Farms and with that business they provide hippotherapy to people who suffer from disabilities such as Autism, Down's Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. The children grew up being homeschooled and learning how to serve others. Now the fruit of that upbringing is really showing.
Renee, the second oldest daughter, is 19 and has already spent several months in Uganda doing missions work. In fact while she was there, she didn't just do what she had been sent to do, but came up with a new idea of a way to serve the people there. She started a program for feeding the children. Her idea has grown and now, this 19 year old young lady is heading back for a prolonged stay in Uganda and she has started her own nonprofit organization which will focus on feeding and caring for children. Serving His Children now has a website that will tell you way better than I can about what they plan to do and hope to accomplish. The organization website is brand new and still under construction. But there is also a blog Be Hands and Feet that you can check out.
I know there are a lot of worthy organizations out there, but this one has touched my heart and as I have watched Renee grow up, I know that it is an organization being run for the right reasons. Please take some time to go visit the website. If you can help in anyway, I guarantee you will be blessed as much, if not more, than you are blessing others. I know economically times are tough, but we know nothing of hard times compared to these children.
January 15, 2009
Crayon Physics Deluxe
We don't have this game yet, but it is on our list of games to get! Who thought Physics could be so much fun???? Check it out!
January 14, 2009
Hack Your Brain - Experiments for Budding Scientists
Daniel sent me this link yesterday and I had to share it. These look like some fun and very interesting experiments to try!
It's amazing how we can trick our brains!
December 8, 2008
Homeschool Field Trip Planning
Over the last two months during my lack of writing, something that occured is something I wanted to post about and now I have the time.
I am in an online homeschool group of close to 200 families. The way our group works is when someone wants to set up something they just do it. Then people who are interested join in. One problem with this system, is that few want to step up to the plate and make the effort to host the field trips or other classes. It never ceases to amaze me how people complain, but they never want to do the front end work, but that is another post.
So, being an organizer, I put together two field trips for this fall. The first was to an apple orchard. I asked if people wanted to go on a tour or if they just wanted to meet and pick apples. Most wanted a tour, I set it up. 7 families signed up. I was surprised it was only 7, but we went with it. The day of the tour, lovely though it was, only 4 of the 7 familes showed up.
The second field trip I organized was to a historic Cemetery, the week before Halloween. Again I asked if people wanted a tour or just wanted to visit and the answer was a tour. So I set it up. For the Old City Cemetery, it is necessary to pay 30.00 up front, but only 2.00 a person for anyone over 15 people. I had about 15 families show interest. When it came time to sign up, only 7 actually signed up.
October 27, 2008
Old City Cemetery Field Trip
Today, families from my homeschool group went on a field trip to the Old City Cemetery in Lynchburg. My kids and I have visited this site many times and learned a lot at the variety of tours we have signed up for. Today we were very excited about the opportunity to picnic in the autumn weather, swing on the swing that hangs from the pecan tree and learn more about the cemetery.
In years past, we have learned about composting, pond life, the railroad station, the pestilence house, bats, tombstone rubbings, the Confederate Cemetery, and some of the historical markers. Today we were supposed to learn about the trees in the cemetery and some African American history.
The kids and I packed lunches, packed up for the afternoon (the children had group piano lessons after the field trip). It was overcast and cool, but we were expecting the temperatures to reach 55 and for it to be sunny without precipitation.
October 24, 2008
The Joys of the Magnifying Glass
On Wednesday, we visited Liberty Lake Park in Bedford. We have been trying to get there once a week as a homeschool function, but we have had a hard time getting others to come. Not sure if it is the day or if everyone just has so much to do, they just don't need or want to do a 'park day'. Anyway...this past Wednesday, we met a new family. The oldest daughter, Melinda, had been exploring with her magnifying glass and the sun. Pretty soon, Melinda, Rebecca, Jack and Katrina were busy setting small fires.
They were not content though just to try to burn leaves and nuts, they got creative too and now I have some fun Halloween decorations!
October 21, 2008
Welcome to the Carnival Of Homeschooling...Who Let the Dogs Out?
I always enjoy hosting the Carnival of Homeschooling. It gives me an opportunity to pick a topic that is near and dear to my heart and intersperse information and pictures about it with interesting homeschool posts. A big thanks to Janine and Henry Cate at Why Homeschool for starting The Carnival of Homeschooling way back when! If you have never visited their site, be sure to check it out for great articles and information how you can submit to future Homeschool Carnivals.
Now on with the show...today, the topic is going to be something which is currently near and dear to our hearts...puppies! Well, dogs, not just puppies. We have recently adopted a sweet little Irish Setter and we will be adopting a companion for her in just a few weeks...a cute Goldendoodle. I hope you will enjoy learning about these breeds and others! So grab a cup of coffee, because there is lots of great information here!
Some posts don't fit into your categories no matter what theme you cover, but this post touched me, so I wanted to put it top of the pack. Beverly at Beverly's Homeschool Blog shares a sad moment and an idea that we should all consider in her post When A Homeschool Mom Dies....
One day her body will grow up and match those wise old eyes that she already possesses and she will look something like this:
Irish Setters are energetic, intelligent, affectionate, high-spirited, and full of energy. They have no guarding instincts, get along with other animals, and are good with children. Irish Setters are responsive yet sensitive. Train this breed firmly at an early age to prevent development of bad habits, as this breed tends to pick up bad habits quickly. Sounds a lot like children doesn't it? It can often be a challenge to keep children busy as the colder days move in, but never fear, here are some ideas for you to try!
Shannon at Song of My Heart has a wonderful project she and her children did as part of an ocean study. Check out this ocean art project. Your kids are sure to love it!
Melitsa at Play-Activities.com shares some wonderful ideas about keeping those little boys occupied with some riveting reads.
Don't want your children to spend their days in front of a video game? Well, hold up a minute, because Silvia over at Po Moyemu--In My Opinion has a different take on gaming and how your child can benefit from it in her article Some Game Making Software and Benefits of Gaming
Just like we want to avoid teaching our children bad habits, we want to teach them good habits. And one habit that will last them a life time is the habit of reading. Whether it is reading for fun or reading to learn, reading is something we all want our children to master and enjoy. But before they can read words, they have to recognize letters and they have to understand the sounds letters make. Amy from Kids Love Learning shares a couple of different ways she has taught these concepts to her children who have very different learning styles in her post Learning Letter Sounds .
Annette at Craft Stew shares how your children can make a Birdhouse Bookmark.
SoCalVal at Homeschooling With Encouragement - Homeschool Blogger shares a recent homeschool study in his post: If You Give An Eclectic A Textbook...
Kris at Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers shares an annual tradition in her post Around the World Day 2008 . This is a fantastic idea and I would like to try something like this with our homeschool group!
Continue reading "Welcome to the Carnival Of Homeschooling...Who Let the Dogs Out?" »
October 16, 2008
Shhh...Ginger is sleeping...and I am Working on Next Week's Homeschool Carnival
Well, Ginger's night time sleeping continues to improve and we are getting into a bit of a routine with her. She is actually fitting into a routine much faster than either of my children did (hee hee). Right now, she is sleeping next to me on the sofa and I am trying to get caught up on email, and working on next weeks Homeschool Carnival post! Yep, that's right, I am hosting next week and you'll never guess what the topic for the Carnival is!!!
Hey...how did you know the topic was dogs? Have you been peeking in my computer again? Anyway, I am having fun with putting the Carnival together and have already received several awesome posts! Be sure to come back next Tuesday and check them out. Also, feel free to send me anything you would like to add to the Homeschool Carnival. You have until 6 pm Monday to get your submission in (of course, I appreciate it when you don't wait til the last minute;). Just go to Why Homeschool and follow the directions there to send in your submission! I look forward to hearing from you.
BTW, I got back my second test last night...I scored 103! My average is now 100.5 for the class. But the test next week is going to be a doozy! Tons of information I have to learn.
September 19, 2008
Hi There...Remember Me?
Sorry, I have been away, but life is busy with homeschool, home activities, social activities, class, church, fundraisers, field trips and visitors. I think that about covers it!
Let's see...Homeschooling is going pretty well. We have gotten through about 6 chapters of Story of the World. Jack is learning about the Human Genome and Katrina is studying about classifying living and non-living things. We are learning grammar, spelling, and of course, lovely math. Piano is going well and they are getting back in the groove of things after not having practiced as much as they should over the summer.
We are busy doing some odds and ends around the house. As you saw in photos last week. This week, the appliance repair man came. Parts are on order to fix the freezer. The cost of the dryer repairs was almost as much as a new dryer, so we got a new dryer. Our old one had a computer 'board' on it and I wanted to get away from that. It was 14 years old and for the extra 26 dollars we paid for the brand new dryer, I am happy. I also purchased a small outside storage shed (but I can't tell you why just yet). We are also expecting a lot of packages coming in the mail in the near future. But again, can't share about that just yet. All of those calls and ordering and researching take up time.
September 3, 2008
Labor Day Edition of Homeschool Carnival
Yesterday was a busy day and I didn't get to blog any. I have several things to report and share with you, but first and foremost, I want to encourage you to go visit the Labor Day edition of the Homeschool Carnival over at Homeschool CPA.
This post celebrates the Labors that we complete in our daily lives as Homeschoolers. I haven't had time to read the posts yet, but I love the way she set up the carnival. Succinct and easy to find what interests you most.
Enjoy!
August 27, 2008
Book Review: Life Prep for Homeschooled Teenagers by Barbara Frank
Last week, I reviewed Barbara Frank's book, The Imperfect Homeschooler's Guide to Homeschooling. This week, I have the honor of reviewing another of her books, Life Prep for Homeschooled Teenagers.
The first thing I have to say about this book is that I think it needs a new title. I think it should be called Life Prep for Teenagers as I believe it is a book that would be valuable for all teenagers, those in public school, private school or home school. I wish I had had access to this book when I was in high school and I am looking forward to reading the books from the book list that Barbara provides and working through the projects with my children when they are older. Not only that, but I am going to go through the college bound section with my 16 year old next door neighbor and babysitter. We are great friends with her mom and Ashley has become like family to us.
Continue reading "Book Review: Life Prep for Homeschooled Teenagers by Barbara Frank" »
August 26, 2008
139th Carnival of Homeschooling Is Up...
Renae at Life Nurturing Education is hosting the 139th edition of the Carnival of Homeschooling today.
Go join Renae and the state of Texas in remembering the dedication and sacrifice made to advance the liberty of women. Renae has done an excellent job of surrounding the posts with interesting information and pictures.
August 25, 2008
Hi Ho, Hi Ho...it's off to school we go...
Well, today we are getting back in the school work groove. We have some changes this year and Jack has doen very well with them so far. Katrina...well, she was a bit resistant.
I decided that before we start school each day, I want their piano practicing to be done and for them to each have exercises for 30 minutes and showered. This way, I am not having to intrude on their play time at the end of the day, when we are all a bit tired and cranky.
So last night, the three of us set down and said the order we would like to do things this morning. Then, I made sure that we could all three get showers and exercise in before 9. The kids wanted to have time to 'play' in the morning too, so they both decided they wanted to get up at 5. Jack is like me, he wants to do something for a bit to wake up before he goes to exercise. Katrina said she wanted to exercise from 5-5:30 and bathe from 5:30-6. Well, that fit the schedule just great, though I had my concerns about her being able to get right up and start exercising right away. Well, not only did it take her until 6 to wake up, once she woke up, she didn't want to exercise. But, all in all, it has turned out okay. She still needs a shower, but other than that, she has accomplished her pre-school tasks.
Continue reading "Hi Ho, Hi Ho...it's off to school we go..." »
August 19, 2008
Carnival of Homeschooling is Up and Running!
Janice Campbell is hosting this week's Carnival of Homeschooling at Taking Time for Things that Matter.
Many of us are getting geared up for a new year of homeschooling. Be sure to check out the many posts and enjoy the reminder that learning isn't just about books.
August 15, 2008
A New 4-H Year...and Two Officers Reside With Me.
Yesterday we attended our first 4-H meeting of the year. Last year was a 'rough year'. We started out with about 50 kids at our get to know you meetings. We have ended up with a group of about 15 kids more or less. We did a lot of good things last year and we had to find our way. The way our 4-H group is set up is that once a month we have a club meeting and once a month we have a class. Elizabeth and Cheri, extension agents in Campbell County, often are in charge of the class. Other days we have field trips or other experts from the community that come and lead the classes. Last year, we spent half of the year learning about electrical stuff. Then the second half of the year, the kids learned about the environment and recycling.
As a project, the group took on raising money to send packages overseas to troops. We raised several hundred dollars with bake sales and a yard sale and the money we raised went to sending packages overseas on three different occasions. We haven't decided what project we will do this year.
Last year was a bit rough as people dropped out. And we had to create our constitution and that took several hours of work on the club officers parts. We had two leaders that had to drop out due to personal situations. But things are looking great for this coming year.
Continue reading "A New 4-H Year...and Two Officers Reside With Me." »
August 13, 2008
Homeschool Song
Momanna98 at Homeschooling in Illinois sent me an email with this song in it today. I love it! And think you will get a kick out of it two...whether you homeschool or not.
Sing to the tune of “I Will Survive-Made famous by Gloria Gaynor
First I was afraid
I was petrified.
Kept thinking I could never teach
´Cause I´m not certified.
But we spent so many nights
Reteaching homework that was wrong.
I grew strong,
so now I teach my kids at home!
We study math
and outer space.
I just kept on despite the fear
with a big smile across my face.
I bought a set of Base Ten blocks.
I bought books with answer keys.
My parents think we´re nuts,
but they don´t even bother me
Come on, let´s go walk out the door.
We´re on the road now,
'cause we´re not home much anymore
My friends would laugh and say we´d be unsocialized.
I heard one mumble
that I´d give up by July.
Oh no, not I!
I will survive!
As long as I know how to read
I know we´ll be alright.
I've got all my life to learn.
I've got energy to burn.
and I'll survive.
I will survive.
It took all the strength I had
not to fall apart.
Decided to attend
a play date at the local park,
and I met oh so many moms
who offered eagerly to help.
They used to cry.
Now they hold their heads up high,
and so do we!
My kids are cool!
They´re not those chained up little people
stuck inside at school.
So if you feel like dropping by
and just expect us to be free
you´d better call ahead first
´cause we´re probably busy!
May 17, 2008
Piano Recital: Awards and Photos
Last night the children participated in their end of the year piano recital. It is a big deal and we were there for about two hours. I am disappointed because while there, my digital camera slid off of my lap and the batteries popped out. I put them in and took several photos. What I didn't realize is the memory card popped out, so they were taken on the internal memory of the camera. So I have a few pictures (all of Katrina), and the ones of Jack are trapped on my camera. I tried to download and install the driver today, but was unsuccessful. I will try again so you can see the rest of the pictures.
Before we left, my neighbor was visiting and she did a wonderful job with Katrina's hair.
Here she is from the front. And if you look closely, you will see Jack at the piano practicing and talking with their music teacher, Mrs. Booth.
May 6, 2008
Carnival of Homeschooling: Week 123
Wow! It is amazing to me that over two years ago, Janine and Henry at Why Homeschool had the idea to create a Carnival of Homeschooling. And here it is, still going strong! Each week, there are wonderful articles by homeschoolers from around the globe sharing what works for them. That is one of the great strengths of the homeschooling community...we all are more than happy to share our experiences and knowledge with other homeschoolers!
Many homeschools are run by moms. Dads participate as they can, but usually they are the ones working to support the family so the children can be homeschooled. Since Mother's Day is just around the corner, the theme for this week's carnival will center around that.
So grab a cup of coffee, send the kids out to play, sit back and enjoy!
History
Contrary to popular belief, Mother's Day was not conceived and fine-tuned in the boardroom of Hallmark. The earliest tributes to mothers date back to the annual spring festival the Greeks dedicated to Rhea, the mother of many deities, and to the offerings ancient Romans made to their Great Mother of Gods, Cybele. Christians celebrated this festival on the fourth Sunday in Lent in honor of Mary, mother of Christ. In England this holiday was expanded to include all mothers and was called Mothering Sunday.
In 1905 when Anna Jarvis died, her daughter, also named Anna, began a campaign to memorialize the life work of her mother. Legend has it that young Anna remembered a Sunday school lesson that her mother gave in which she said, "I hope and pray that someone, sometime, will found a memorial mother's day. There are many days for men, but none for mothers."
Anna began to lobby prominent businessmen like John Wannamaker, and politicians including Presidents Taft and Roosevelt to support her campaign to create a special day to honor mothers. At one of the first services organized to celebrate Anna's mother in 1908, at her church in West Virginia, Anna handed out her mother's favorite flower, the white carnation. Five years later, the House of Representatives adopted a resolution calling for officials of the federal government to wear white carnations on Mother's Day. In 1914 Anna's hard work paid off when Woodrow Wilson signed a bill recognizing Mother's Day as a national holiday.
April 30, 2008
Carnival of Homeschooling
I will be hosting next week's Carnival of Homeschooling! Be sure to submit your posts to be included before Monday, May 5th at 6 p.m.
If you are not sure what the Carnival of Homeschooling is, you can peruse these past carnivals.
If you want to submit, but aren't sure how, then visit this link.
And be sure to come back on Tuesday. I have already received several great posts and I am sure there will be more to come!
April 9, 2008
Career Change
I have been thinking a lot lately about what type of work I would like to do. I would like to help DH support our family financially. But what to do. DH thinks I should work more on my HTML skills and get work helping people design their websites. While I can muddle through HTML, I am not sure it is the best use of my talents. And while I can write and figure out the code, I am very weak in the 'designing area'. I mean, having someone come to me and say, build me a website, I just feel a bit overwhelmed by such a prospect considering how much I struggled to get my webstie working (and there are still things I would like to change).
A job I have recently thought of. The last couple of days I have been trying to help my sister-in-law do some trouble shooting with her computer. I needed some advice from DH, but I think with a class or two in this, I could do a good job of it and this type of work suits my personality more. I love a good puzzle and that's what this would be. Someone's computer not working? Well, I could figure out the pieces and get it working again. And I like working with computers and with people. I have been working with computers for 18 years, so I have experience. I could get certification, then start up my own business and work according to my hours, so I would still be able to homeschool, then work in the afternoons and evenings. This has a lot of appeal to me.
I have friends who have tried the positions of day trader or futures broker. While I am sure these are good positions for some, I am clueless in that arena and will leave that work to the people who know what the heck they are doing (or at least they do a good job of pretending that they know what they are doing).
Other things that interest me are library work, book store work, office manager work, writing (anything to do with writing), and people oriented activities. I am organized, great at multi-tasking, a quick learner and reasonably good with entertaining and teaching children. I am still thinking on this. My main criteria is that it is something that I can work around homeschooling.
So, what kinds of jobs do you and/or your homeschooling friends do?
April 6, 2008
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine - Subscribe Now for Great Gifts
If you are not familiar with The Old Schoolhouse Magazine or if you have heard of it, but have been putting off purchasing a subscription, now is a great time to subscribe.
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine's popular subscription promo is back this Spring and in full bloom! It's their 25 for $25 Spring Promo and you don't want to wait. Their Winter gift promo sold out early, so subscribe NOW to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine before these fantastic gifts are gone. From preschool to college, they have it all. You'll not only receive four terrific issues packed with encouragement, resources, and ideas, you'll receive over $550 in BONUS gifts from these popular homeschool companies:
• Hand of a Child - 6 month super membership
• Schola / PHONICS Road to Spelling and Reading - A Brief History of English Spelling E-Pamphlet
• God's World/World Magazine - 4 free issues of WORLD Magazine and 2 month's worth of WORLD Magazine
• Kinderbach - Discover Music Package, five lessons on DVD & activity e-book included
• Adorned With Modesty - Proverbs Paperdolls Books I and II, 16 Short Sermons and a $3.00 coupon.
• KT Graphics - Free month subscription to Helpme2teach.com
• Knowledge Box Central - Declaration of Independence CopyWork Notebook and a Human Heart Lapbook
• Homestead Originals - Homestead Simplicity e-book
• Clark Health – Educational Health Audio
• Vintage Remedies – Kitchen Herbal e-book
• Knowledge Quest - What Really Happened: A Collection of Historical Biographies
• Remembrance Press / The Gift of Writing - The Girlhood Home Companion E-sampler and The Pebbly Brook Farm Stories mp3 download
• Systematic Math - DVD Math sample lessons for 6th grade and up
• Deeper Roots Publications - Encouragement for Home School Moms book
• LGS Services, Inc./Little Giant Steps - Auditory booklet, Heroes DVD, plus, a free Auditory Processing Test Kit
• Motherboard Books - Silly Animations e-lesson
• New Harvest Homestead - 5 Free issues of their newsletter
• Internet Safety Editorial - Free 12 month subscription to Safe Eyes
• American Heritage Education Foundation, Inc. - K-12 Social Studies lesson plans America's Heritage, Adventure & Liberty
• Paws N Tales - Free MP3 Download of Paws & Tales Episode
• Math Facts Now - Math Facts Now! computer program
• ALEKS Corporation - Free 1-Month of ALEKS Math (for new users)
• Teach Magazine - A free e-newsletter and e-book "Organizing Happiness"
• Write Shop - Free e-gifts! 224 StoryBuilder Cards, WriteShop I sample lesson, and coupon.
• Homeschool in the Woods – Artists Activity Pack
Subscribe NOW to reserve your set of these INCREDIBLE 25 BONUS gifts, before they're gone, again!
March 20, 2008
Today's Trivia
This morning we were reading about minerals and I found out something I didn't know before, so I thought I would share. I knew that people have always treasured salt. I remember it being a more expensive and rare commodity in the pioneer days.
What I didn't know was this:
Roman soldiers were paid partly with a salarium: a quantity of salt. Salarium became salary, the money you earn by working...
I love homeschooling..I learn something new most every day!
March 7, 2008
Science Fair Fun
Yesterday our 4-H group had a Science Fair. The kids have been working on their projects over the last month.
I thought you might enjoy seeing them.
Katrina made a homemade volcano. We had so much fun building the volcano and it was the hit yesterday...all the kids wanted to see her explode it again and again! The judges gave her an average score of 90.5 out of 100.
February 27, 2008
Carnival of Homeschooling, Week 113
Miss Amanda at The Daily Planet is hosting this weeks Homeschool Carnival. It has a Presidential theme. Sorry I forgot to post this yesterday. Be sure to drop by and enjoy some interesting homeschooling ideas!
February 23, 2008
A Musical Afternoon
Yesterday afternoon, our 4-H Homeschool Nature Group met. The crafts for the day were musical instruments. My son decided not to come. The class is really geared towards younger children at this point. Here is what we did.
First we made banjos. You take two sturdy, deep paper plates. One you paint on the back with your beautiful design. The other you cut a whole out of the center, and then you paint the back of that plate with a beautiful design. Once these masterpieces are dry, you glue a paint stirring stick to the back of the plate for the neck of the banjo, then you glue the plates together(back parts facing outward), then you make strings with rubber bands. Of course pictures are worth a thousand words, so check these out:
E and Katrina are working on the back of the banjos. They both borrowed painting ideas from one another.
February 9, 2008
Homeschool Boutique
Back in December I won this shirt for being a participant in Tiany's Holiday Open House. This shirt was provided as a prie by the Homeschool Boutique. It arrived just last week and I love it!
If you are looking for neat Homeschool items, there are plenty of things at the Homeschool Boutique that can tickle your fancy!
For instance, every homeschooled child should have one of these shirts to head off those common questions!
Or maybe a Principal Dad shirt would be to your liking! Go over to Homeschool Boutiqueand take a look when you get a chance. There is a little something for everyone in your homeschool family!
January 29, 2008
Homeschool Carnival Is Up!
I know this is a busy week for many of us, but I still encourage you to take some time and visit this week's Homeschool Carnival hosted by Life on the Road.
The theme of this week's carnival is "Leaving a Legacy", and let me tell you, there are several gems in this week's carnival. Be sure to go take a look see!
January 26, 2008
Yesterday's Nature Group Meeting
We had another fun group meeting yesterday with some fun projects.
We made an air pressure gauge, a rain gauge and a bird feeder.
The rain gauge was straight forward, a plastic tube, which we marked at 1 inch intervals, then we taped on a popsicle stick to help hold it upright in the ground.
The air pressure gauge was a wide mouth jar with a balloon wrapped tightly over the top (tight enough to bounce a penny on), then wrap a rubber band around it to help hold it in place. To get the balloon to wrap over the top, cut off the neck of the balloon. We did some other stuff with a straw and then you put a board behind it to mark when pressure was up and down (the straw moves up and down), but it was a bit complicated and we were told to use crazy glue and it stuck mostly to our fingers. I think, just putting the balloon over the top is enough. It was neat to see it go up when we were inside a nice warm room and be sucked into the jar when it was cold out.
My most favorite was the bird feeders. Take a toilet paper holder. Use a hole punch to punch two holes on one end that you can run a string through to hang the hanger from. Then take a knife and pierce both sides of the tube on the other end. Later on you can push a popsicle holder through and it will act like a perch. Pour honey onto a plate (or you can use peanut butter), roll the tube into the honey, getting it nice and sticky. Then roll the tube into bird seed...let it get cold so the honey crystallizes. Insert string and popsicle stick, hang up and watch the birds come in flocks!
January 24, 2008
A Homeschooler's Rant
It's winter and we all may be a bit cranky. Long days spent inside when it is too cold to go out. All of us in constant close contact and maybe getting on each other's nerves just a little. But then we get a break, a glorious day where we get to go out and play and enjoy this beautiful world and all it has to offer. What can mar such a splendid occasion? The confrontation of others. You may have seen this rant before. It ran in Secular Homeschooling Magazine some time back, and then it was reprinted at the Family Hack Blog in November. My husband found it yesterday in his web meanderings and sent the link to me.
I thought I would share it here for my homeschool readers. Keep these fun responses in mind for the next time a 'concerned citizen' approaches you!
January 22, 2008
The Things Children Say
Katrina is a big worksheet gal and she does well with math. So we started with a second grade workbook for her math back in August. She finished it in the first week of January. This was a 300 page book, so it wasn't tiny or anything. We decided to let her go on to grade 3 math. We had Saxon 3 math from when Jack used it a few years ago. I like the Saxon math Jack is currently using, but found the repetition of Saxon 3 a bit tedious. So we tend to do the meeting time part only until the child has it down pat. Anyway...this math is set up for homeschoolers, but then they have things like the 'class birthday graph'. Well, we have a class of three, my kids and me. Hard to make much of a graph with that. So in the two previous lessons, we just used our whole family to work out a birthday graph.
Today, Katrina and I reviewed her lesson, then I left her to do the worksheet.
She asks, "Mommy, how many days are in a year?"
"365," her brother answers helpfully. He often answers to Mommy and Daddy;)
January 15, 2008
Homeschool Carnival Is Up!
Grab a cup of coffee and go check out this week's Homeschool Carnival. Judy has done an awesome job setting it up and celebrating Martin Luther King at the same time! Go dip in or dive in, you are sure to find something interesting there!
January 12, 2008
Having Fun While Learning About the Moon
Yesterday our nature group met. The topic of the day was the moon. One mom brought some crafts for the kids to do. These included making an earth and moon with stryofoam balls and then attaching the moon to the earth so that it could spin around the earth. The kids had a lot of fun with that. For the earth we started with a green styrofoam ball and then painted on the oceans and clouds and ice caps. Here is what Jack and Katrina's looked like:
Katrina's earth had quite a bit more cloud cover. Jack's earth had some lovely continents that actually resembled real ones! The kids really enjoyed this activity.
Then the first group came to me while another group started on making their earths and moons. My group learned a bit about the Geology of the moon. I had a book with some great photos that were taken by astronauts and it really gave them an idea of what the moon looked like.
Continue reading "Having Fun While Learning About the Moon" »
Snowman Craft and Gravity
After we took down the Christmas decorations, my daugther commented on how bare the walls looked. I had taken down a few wall hangings to put up Christmas stuff and since I hope to get a cabinet to put in that spot sometime this year, I just left the wall hangings off. So of course, we needed to fill that spot. And since it is the middle of January and we have had a total of .5 inches of snow, we figured we best just make some of our own snowment. In case you would like some fun snowmen for your house, here's what you will need.
Supplies:
White posterboard
Black construction paper
glitter glue
sequins
glue stick
tape
scissors
pencil
First you make circles of three different sizes on the poster board. Make as many as you want to make snowmen. We made 9 snowmen, so we had 9 very big circles, 9 big circles and 9 small circles.
Then using the smallest circle we drew 9 hats on black construction paper. Basically a thin rectangle with a square on top.
Here's what the pieces look like.
January 9, 2008
Math Dilemma
Math is not my strong suit. Really. I mean, I do well enough with it. I can add, subtract, multiply and divide. I can even do this in my head with up to three digit numbers. I can double recipes. I can figure out tips. But I have forgotten a lot of the terminology. I don't go around spouting things like 'whole numbers' and 'communicative propertry...if I even spelled that one right. And I have forgotten how some of these things work. Add to that the fact that math is laid out differently for children these days (different rules and steps). Math is not my subject. Fortunately, my children are great readers and they basically teach themselves math. They read the lesson, do the problem, I check it and we move on.
But sometimes...Jack gets well...stubborn. He knows math isn't my subject. He also must harbor doubts about my ability to use the solutions manual to check his school work. Yesterday he had a problem and he put down the answer was 200. I checked the answer book...wrong answer. I don't look at the problems to see why he got wrong. Part of his next day's math is to go back and correct the wrong problems. If he can't figure it out, then I wade in and do my best to help. So he is redoing the problem and he says, but Mommy, 20 x 20 is 200. I looked at him (hey, I don't need an answer book for this) and said, no it's not. So he very patiently started doing the problem step by step so he could show me how confused I was....Meanwhile, I turned to his sister (2nd grade) and asked her what 2 x 2 is. She answered with 4. Turned back to Jack...his cheeks reddened, he blustered a bit and then does his spiel...about "Mom, the answer is 400, I don't know why you were trying to say it was 200. What's wrong with you?" And we all laugh as he tries not to be too red faced with his very simple mistake.
Don't get me started on how yesterday when I was reviewing prime numbers with him, that I forgot 2 is a prime number...hmph! Now, just ask me some questions about Sparta and Athens and the ancient Greeks...I'll keep talking for hours!
December 29, 2007
Homeschool Carnival Call of Graphics
The Carnival of Homeschooling was begun by the Cates at Why Homeschool two years ago! Time sure does fly when you are having fun!
In honor of the longevity and sheer numbers of participants and visitors that check out the Carnival of Homeschooling each week, Henry and Janine are sponsoring a Graphics Contest. They are looking for a graphic for the Homeschool Carnival and they want you to give them some options. This contest has a couple of stages to it and by clicking the Graphics Contest link you can find out exactly how it is laid out.
Just think - your inspired artwork could be seen by hundreds each week! Is that cool or what?
Good luck!
December 17, 2007
Homeschoolers, Educators and Students, Listen Up! Microsoft Discounts Are Available for You!
The vast majority of computer users have Microsoft products on their computer. And every couple of years, Microsoft comes out with a new and improved product, but this also means there is a new and improved price tag. Because Daniel is a computer consultant, we always have the latest Microsoft products. It is necessary for his job and a business expense for us. But there are many others who would like to update, but find the cost prohibitive.
Well, I have found a solution for you! Check out www.CostCaptain.com! This website has a section that is dedicated to educators. If you are a qualified educator, you are eligible for tremendous discounts on several Microsoft 2007 products.
You may be eligible if you fall in one of these categories:
- Accredited Educational Institutions
- Administrative Offices & Boards of Education
- Faculty and Staff of eligible educational institutions
- Enrolled Students of eligible educational institutions
- Public Libraries
- Public Museums
- Home-School Programs
I have found Microsoft Office 2007 to be a vast improvement over previous Microsoft Office products. The layout is more user friendly and I am able to navigate through the Office Programs with ease. There are many features that I have found useful in my day to day activities. If you are in the field of education, you know how useful programs like Excel, Word, and Publisher are. I also really like the new Microsoft Photo Editor. So, if you have been wanting to upgrade, but funds have been low, then check out www.CostCaptain.com. Your budget will thank you!
November 27, 2007
A Busy Afternoon And Information on the Twenty Worst Foods
Okay, you are wondering where I am going with this after reading that bizarre title...well, follow along and you will see.
Actually, a busy afternoon isn't correct. It was a busy day. I spent my morning blogging, reading emails and RSS feeds and teaching the children. We are reading about Greek Gods and Goddesses right now. For science, Katrina and Jack spent some time with their rabbits. We continue to try and get them to like us! Then they worked on alphabetizing and defining this week's spelling words. Followed by learning more about verbs and how they work in sentences. Then this was followed by math. Jack is learning about decimals and Katrina is learning about adding and subtracting three digit numbers (she doesn't like this section very much).
After lunch, we headed to town for our Tuesday errands. We stopped at the dump first. While Jack was unloading our trash, I popped the hood and tried to get a better handle on why my car has smoke coming out from under the hood when I stop. Well, there have been two problems. One is that a hose that goes into the valve cover had popped loose. My dad fixed that a couple of weeks ago, but I was still steaming and couldn't figure out why. Then I realized I wasn't steaming all the time. Turns out that there must be a leak involving my air condition thingy. When my AC or defrost is on, fluid drips onto the manifold and burns. Since we can't spend money on repairs, I simply turned off the defrost and viola....no more smoke! COOL! Now I know that there are times when I will have to use the defrost, but at least, I know my car isn't going to burst into flames...
Continue reading "A Busy Afternoon And Information on the Twenty Worst Foods" »
100th Homeschool Carnival Is up!
Can you believe that this week marks the 100th homeschool carnival? That is amazing! The Cates at Why Homeschool really started a wonderful thing when they created this carnival and we all owe them a debt of gratitude! I have found so much helpful information from this carnival over the last couple of years and I hope I have contributed some useful information as well.
This week's carnival is being hosted by Mom Is Teaching As well as sharing homeschooling posts, she is sharing information on Oklahoma which recently celebrated its centennial.
Grab a cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa and settle in for some great tips and stories!
November 14, 2007
Homeschool Carnival is Up and Running
You will find a very grateful blog host over at Nerd Family. She shares what she is thankful about during this Thanksgiving season along with wonderful posts that you will be thankful to read!
This Morning's Question
I am sitting here minding my own business, blogging away when Katrina comes up and says,
"I have a question"
"Um hmm..."type, type, type
"Why do bug bites swell up?"
"Well, I think it is because of the body fighting off the infection"
"Why do they itch?"
"umm...uh same reason, I think"
"Why do they hurt when I touch them?"
"Okay, that's enough questions. I am not sure of the answers, so let me look them up."
Open new tab...type, 'Why do bug Bites itch?'
Get 64,400 possible answers. Go with the first one...hey, I was pretty much right! PHEW! Thank goodness for the Internet!
Now if Google could only help me answer the question "What's for dinner tonight?"
November 9, 2007
The Amazed Homeschooler
My children never cease to amaze me. I love it when they come and say...I want to learn 'yada yada'. It just knocks my socks off.
Jack is now learning HTML at some prodding from his father, but he is really enjoying the whole idea and practice of creating his own web page. Katrina wants him to finish reading the HTML for Dummies book so she can get a crack at it.
Last week, Jack told me he wanted to learn Latin. WHAT!!!!???? So this week, we were at the library, he hopped over to the card catalog, found a beginner's Latin book, asked me for directions to the adult non fiction section (someplace he hasn't visited before), then found the book and started reading.
Katrina has about 40 more pages to go in her 2nd grade math book and it is only November! Look out 3rd grade math, here we come!
I love homeschooling!
The Bitter Homeschooler
A friend of mine, who is a secular unschooler, sent me this link to The Bitter Homeschoolers' Wish List. I don't like to think of myself as bitter, but I can identify with some of these. I may have to print it out and post it up at home or carry it with me for when someone gets ready to approach me with 'that look in their eye.'
November 6, 2007
97th Homeschool Carnival
Dana at Principled Discovery has put together a terrific Homeschool Carnival. You will find my entry listed in the catalog as C&I400.
Dana's description:
This week, we are attending classes at Homeschool U, our own virtual university for homeschooling families. Each class is worth three course credits. Like homeschooling itself, these courses are designed to be taken at your convenience, anywhere you have access to a computer and your children are welcome. Attending courses here at Homeschool U entitles you to the right to display the accompanying graphic on your own blog, should you so choose.
Reasons to Vote
I take voting very seriously. I have never missed a major election and haven't missed many of the 'minor' ones. I have tried to instill the importance of voting in my children. So much so, in fact, that I spent an hour during the last presidential election getting my oldest stepson to vote(his car was broken) even though he was going to vote for 'the other guy.'
A dear friend of mine and I sit on the opposite sides of the political fence. We don't talk about politics too much because we don't want it to harm our friendship. But there are some things we agree on and that is that every single vote counts.
The other day she passed me a couple of articles that I want to share with you. There is still plenty of time for you to get out and vote today! If you aren't registered, make it a top priority this coming year. We are so blessed to live in a country where we can vote for candidates. It is appalling how many people throw that priviledge and right away. Other citizens around the world are dying to have what we take for granted.
November 2, 2007
Map and Compass Exercises
Late last winter, the children and I joined in with a local homeschool nature group. We attended a couple of indoor classes, and then started meeting outdoors for hikes, water studies, flower identification, that sort of thing. Our fearless leader became pregnant with her fourth child and as the months have grown closer to the impending birth, we have seen and heard less from her. Two other moms decided to turn us into 4-H affiliated group. We were already doing 4-H type activities and this would look good on the kids transcripts. Today was our first meeting and the two leaders set up a map and compass exercise for us. All of the parents participated, but this was a nice guideline.
Since it went so well and the children had so much fun (except Jack who felt like this was old hat for him) I thought I would share the guidelines the two mom's set up for us. That way you can do it with your young'uns.
October 31, 2007
November 11th - Veteran's Day and a Book Giveaway
How does one define the word 'veteran'?
Originally, the word veteran meant "a person of long experience" or skill. Derived from the Latin term veteranus. After the American Revolution the word veteran came to be associated specifically with former soldiers of old age who had fought for independence. As time went on, "veteran" was used to describe any former member of the armed forces or a person who had served in the military.
World War I, also known as the "Great War" was officially concluded on the 11th hour of the 11th Day of November, at 11 A.M. in 1918. On November 11th of the following year, President Woodrow Wilson declared that day as "Armistice Day" in honor of the peace. (The term armistice means "truce" or the end of wartime hostilities.) This day was marked with public celebrations and a two minute halt to business at 11 AM. In 1921, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was dedicated in Arlington Cemetery with a ceremony on November 11th. After this dedication, Armistice Day was adopted in many states and at the federal level as a day to honor veterans. This was made official in 1938 when an act of Congress made Armistice Day a national holiday.
Continue reading "November 11th - Veteran's Day and a Book Giveaway" »
It's a Contest! It's a Product Promotion! Help Katrina Survivors! Have fun!
Okay, I have come up with what I think is going to be something fun, helpful and profitable...all in one!
One of the many reasons I blog is to try and make some extra money. As a single income family, the extra money definitely comes in handy. I have written three non-fiction books about animals and I have put together a Recipe CD.
So here is the deal....
Continue reading "It's a Contest! It's a Product Promotion! Help Katrina Survivors! Have fun!" »
My eBooks Have Hit the 'Big' Time
After careful consideration of my three ebooks: Life of the American Bison, Life of the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, and Life of the Komodo Dragon have been accepted by The Old Schoolhouse Store for inclusion in their inventory. I am tickled to be a part of a store that is dedicated to provide wonderful products to anyone interested in education!
Here is the link to where you can purchase my books.
October 30, 2007
American Public School Kids Are Not Learning
I ran across a very thought provoking article in my web ramblings
Warning: The next generation might just be the biggest pile of idiots in U.S. history.
While the writer, Mark Morford, does not once mention home schooling, this article could be a 'poster child' for homeschooling. He sums up very nicely many points about the problems that our country is going to face in future years due to the education (or lack thereof) that our children are receiving. Combine that with the constant bombardment of television, video games, and other electronic gadgets, then stir in the fact that many children today have never gone for a walk in the woods or learned how to build a simple thing for themselves...and what you have is a recipe for disaster.
He shares insight that he has obtained from a teacher he knows. A teacher who says he gets high school students that don't know how to form a sentence. A teacher who is thinking about moving out of the country when he retires because he is afraid that the generations coming up aren't going to have a clue to manage the current infrastructure, much less change it for the better. As I was reading his post, I kept thinking about the movie Idiocracy that I did a movie review on recently. This movie could very well depict our future. It's scary!
October 27, 2007
An Awesome Day
I was up with the chickens again this week. I didn't plan to get up quite as early, but I left my alarm set to wake me up at 5:00 (which is the time I got up for the yardsale last week). I didn't want to get up until 6:00, but that's just the way it goes. Since it was midnight when I went to sleep, I was a wee bit tired, but a shower woke me up. I did some work, then headed to town to help out with the 4-H bake sale we were doing today. I had made brownies and cookies. I was in charge of bringing tables and I brought signs with prices and I brought a chair to sit in. I didn't bring children, That was my one mistake. I was envisioning four hours of boredom and my daughter, in particular, moaning about when were we going to go home and couldn't I buy her something. I also wasn't sure any of the other moms were going to bring their kids (I should have asked, but it just didn't occur to me...too many other things on my mind right now).
So we went and got set up. We had brownies, peanut butter cookies, 1/2 a lemon pound cake, 4 loaves of bread, cupcakes, muffins, chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter granola bars, and bags of popcorn. We started selling at approximately 9:00 a.m. and sold until 1 p.m. We had signs up that we were selling baked goods to raise money so we could send soldiers in Iraq and Kuwait care packages. We explained to people that we would be sending the care packages to unit leaders who would then pass out the items to those soldiers who didn't get much if anything from home. People opened their hearts and their wallets.
October 24, 2007
Why Do I Work From Home? (and a contest)
I work from home because it fits with our lifestyle. Even during the last 'not working for myself position' I had, I had managed to maneuver it so that I could during the last couple of years there, I worked mostly from my home.
By working from my home, I have more freedom. I can be with my children (which is very important because I homeschool) and I am really only limited on how much I get done by how many hours there are in the day. I can do laundry in between jobs, I can watch TV while I work and I can work in my pajamas. The thing I like best about working at home (besides being with my children) is that I am in control. I can move up as far and as fast as I choose. If something is not working out for me, it is fairly easy to switch to something else. And I don't have to spend the time traveling to and from work (I live 30 minutes or more away from most job opportunities). I don't have to worry if I have the right clothes, the right hair do or drive the right car. I don't have to have a budget for lunches and clothing. And since my husband also works partially from home, I get to see more of him.
When I was in elementary school, we read a story about a mom and dad working from home on their computers and the child in the next room doing his schooling. I thought that was the craziest thing I had ever heard of...but here I am, living that story!
So why do you work from home or want to work from home? Super WAHM wants to know!
Super WAHM is having a cool contest where you can win a basket full of office goodies! You have between now and November 15th to participate. There are several ways you can enter to win, so be sure to read them all!
October 23, 2007
News Flash...Tickles and Billy are Girls!
Okay...so we believed what we were told...when we purchased Billy and Tickles back in June, the seller and an assistant looked at the bunnies and pronounced them both males. We actually wanted two females, but she didn't have two females, so what can you do?
When Katrina and I were doing her 4-H book, I tried determining the gender, but I still wasn't sure. The parts are little and the description in the 4-H book was not the best.
We don't get the rabbits out a lot. They actually resist the procedure of leaving their hutch. But today we got them out so we could give the hutch a good cleaning. I was petting Billy when I realized that his... her chest had several protruding teats. Uh...oh....
So I did a quick web search and found a much better description than I had previously. You see, when you examine the genitals, they protrude whether it is a girl or a boy. The key factor is whether it has a slit or just comes to a tip. Now that I knew better what I was looking for, I immediately determined that Billy was a girl. Uh...oh....what about Tickles? Cause the one thing I didn't want was a girl and a boy...
So we examined Tickles and to our delight, discovered she is a girl as well. Phew! And that was our science for today, folks! Jack has decided that he will still call Billy 'Billy'. After all, that is what he has called her all along, so why change now!
95th Carnival Of Homeschooling is Up and Running
At Home with Kris is hosting the carnival this week and she has done a terrific job of sharing the ABCs of homeschooling! There is lots of great information to be found, so be sure to check it out!
October 18, 2007
Kid Moments
This week has been a week of cool kid moments for my daughter.
On Sunday when we were in church, she made up a questionnaire for her friend. All of the questions were to do with Jesus and how he was our Savior and was sent to protect us and save us. I was so touched. I meant to keep it so I could share it, but I can't find it.
Then, when she found out about Jonathan being in the hospital, she wrote out a lovely prayer to God on Jonathan's behalf. Here is what she wrote (phonetic spellings included):
Dear Lord. thank you for today. i pray for jonhathin gets heald soon. i pray that they pray for him. I pray for magy and Fido (past pets). I pray for Jack, Mommy, Daddy and me. I pray for Jonhthen so bad.
My daughters' prayers mean so very much to me. I am so very blessed to have such a loving young girl.
Then tonight, she finished a jug of milk. She wanted to crush it like I do, but she was leaning on it and nothing was happening. She told me I must be strong. I told her she needed to take the lid off. I asked her if she knew why she had to take the lid off. Without batting an eye, she said because the lid trapped the air inside and so it couldn't be pushed out. Hey...she's only 7...how did she know that? Did I teach her that? I love moments like that! Now she is putting it on the floor and flopping down on the milk jug to make the air rush out and the top pop off. Ahh...the simple joys of the young!
October 9, 2007
93rd Homeschool Carnival is Up!
Go to Apollos Academy and read the latest from the Homeschool Carnival World.
This is The Tutor's third time hosting and each time she has had...let's say...special challenges! But she has put together a lot of great posts and you definitely don't want to miss out on all of the great information in one place!
Grab a cup of coffee, put your feet up, and prepare to be enlightened!
October 2, 2007
92nd Edition of Homeschool Carnival Is Up
Go to Tami's Blog and enjoy the 92nd Edition of the Homeschool Carnival! One of the longest running carnivals I know of! There is lots of great information there, including an entry from me...see if you can find me:)
September 28, 2007
October Product Promotion/Contest/Charity Event Preview!
This is a preview to what is going to be happening here at Yesterday's Hopes for the month of October. I have written three ebooks. The Komodo Dragon, The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, and The American Bison. For the month of October, i will be offering a chance at prizes and the opportunity to support Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans for anyone who buys one or more of my products. In addition to the three ebooks, I also have a recipe cd that contains over 460 recipes and a friend of mine has provided a website where you can learn all about selling on Ebay.
To help me get this started off, Laura at Laura Williams' Musings is hosting a contest where you can have a chance to win all three of my ebooks for free! And just so you don't have to take my word for it that these are great products, she has provided reviews! You can check them out here at the links below!
September 27, 2007
First People of America Website
I have been busy workig on getting my Bison and Hummingbird ebooks ready for my month-long promotion/charity/prize event that starts on October 1st. These books I had actually researched and written a few years ago. So in order to turn them from a print manuscript into ebook form, I had do the layout and verify that all of my links were still working and I had to find pictures. Well, I hit a real treasure trove when I ran across the First People website. Not only did I find all of the Bison photos I needed (and they were fine with me using them), but there is so much information on this website, that I have spent some time perusing!
I have an intersting heritage. On my father's side I get German and Native American. On my mother's side, I get English, Irish, and Scottish. The Native American heritage has always been what has fascinated me the most(perhaps because so many in my dad's family have the Native American look about them - my great grandmother was a full-blooded Indian). At any rate, any time I see a chance to learn more about Native Americans, I take it.
September 26, 2007
91st Homeschool Carnival is Up
If you have never stopped by and read a Homeschool Carnival, you have been missing out! Eric Novak is hosting the 91st carnival The Voice of Experience. There are over fifty wonderful entries! And Eric is a wonderful host! And if that isn't enough to entice you, I have a post there too!
So grab a cup of coffee and go visit a spell!
September 19, 2007
We Found The Long Lost Tomb of Suburban Today!
Last night, as I was getting ready to go to sleep, a stranger appeared at my door with a map. He promised the map would lead the children to great treasures.
The map looked strangely familiar.
So this morning, the children awoke, had breakfast, and I told them what had happened in the night. They were a trifle 'scared', but anxious to be off.
We went outside to see the map in good lighting. The children took their time studying it.
Continue reading "We Found The Long Lost Tomb of Suburban Today!" »
September 17, 2007
Happy Constitution Day!
220 years ago today the Constitution was signed! For 220 years the Constitution has been the governing law for our country. 55 delegates from 12 states signed the Constitution. Our founding fathers gave us a brilliant foundation.
Fireworks erupt on the Fourth of July, but this is the day that made us a country!
The Department of Defense has a great mini-course on the Constitution!. A great history lesson for your family this week!
Hat Tip: Gazing at the Flag. I didn't know how special today was until I read it on his blog!
August 29, 2007
Chinese Pictograms
We just finished up the section in Story of the World that deals with Ancient China. We really like Story of the World because it shares the information in small snippets and gives lots of great supporting books and crafts and it includes mapworks. I am even learning along with the kids! And I have always loved history.
We don't always do the crafts. It depends if it is something I think the kids will get a kick out of and will further their understanding of something. Yesterday they got to do their own pictograms. So we wanted to share using pictures:) (Seemed appropriate).
August 22, 2007
Suite 101 Homeschool Information and they are hiring freelance writers!
Yesterday I woke up to found I had sold a copy of my Komodo Dragon book! I would like to say it is an everyday occurence, but though I have given many away, have received rave reviews, and I am only asking 10.00 for the eBook, I have only sold 2 copies of it. One was a year ago to a friend who runs a cottage school. I apprecaited her purchase, but she was a friend...and this week I sold a copy to a complete stranger! Thanks, Holly!
At any rate, we aren't strangers anymore and have been corresponding. She is an engineer who is working on making a living from home. She introduced me to a site called Suite 101. In particular she has an entry there on nuclear energy that explains it very well and clearly.
I thought I would share this site with my readers for two reasons: one, there is lots of great information that can be useful to homeschoolers and it appears to be free!. And there are job opportunities. They are hiring freelance writers of non-fiction articles! And you can get paid! You should check it out and see if this would be a source of income for you! Good luck!
August 15, 2007
Emily Dickinson Poetry
Today we read a bio of Emily Dickinson and some of her poetry. She had a wonderful way with images, but we didn't enjoy her poems as much as Sandburg's. She wrote over 1700 poems, but only 6 were published during her lifetime. None of the ones in this book were titled. There were a couple that I enjoyed:
If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.
**********************************
There is no frigate like a book
To take us lands away,
Nor any coursers like a page
Of prancing poetry.
This traverse may the poorest take
Without oppress of toll;
How frugal is the chariot
That bears a human soul!
*********************
(This one reminded me of my daughter)
The bee is not afraid of me,
I know the butterfly,
The pretty people in the woods
Recieve me cordially.
The brooks laugh louder when I come,
The breezes madder play.
Wherefore, mine eyes, thy silver mists?
Wherefore, O summer's day?
*******************
(This was my favorite because I love Thunderstorms!)
The wind begun to rock the grass
With threatening tunes and low, -
He flung a menace at the earth,
A menace at the sky.
The leaves unhooked themselves from trees
And started all abroad;
The dust did scoop itself like hands
And throw away the road.
The wagons quickened on the streets,
The thunder hurried slow;
The lightning showed a yellow beak,
And then a livid claw.
The birds put up the bars to nests,
The cattle fled to barns;
There came one drop of giant rain,
And then, as if the hands
That held the dams had parted hold,
The waters wrecked the sky,
But overlooked my father's house,
Just quartering a tree.
*********************
One thing that struck me overall, was I often liked the beginning verse or verses, but the last one often didn't seem to fit (to me).
August 14, 2007
A Great First Day
We had a fantastic first day of school yesterday. I was up at 6. Jack woke up about 7 and Katrina got up about 8:00 with some prompting.
Before school started, I put away dishes, fed the cats, helped Katrina with feeding the rabbits, did some laundry, caught up on my emails and RSS feeds, played Phase 10 with Jack, took a shower, had breakfast and had devotions.
By 11:30, we were done with our school for today (we finished a bit early as our science curriculum hasn't arrived yet. I got some Ebay work done and laundry folded while the kids worked and when I wasn't working with them. I also made up my shopping lists for the day.
We had lunch and left around 12:30. We had a bunch of errands to run (including recycling, going by the post office, and buying household items). We also went to see Nancy Drew which Katrina and I really enjoyed. Jack said it wasn't as good as he thought it would be...maybe because it was girl centered? We got home a bit after 6 and put away the groceries. I made Black Bean and Corn Ranch salad and Cherries and Chocolate fudge that we will be taking with us to dinner with friends this evening. I got the dishes done, finished my Ebay work and my VaBay work, talked with y mom and helped the kids some with a project they started yesterday on their own.
They are both writing plays. Katrina's is about some woodland friends and Jack's is about pirates. They will be in each other's plays. I am in charge of typing up their words for ease of reading (Jack's writing is terrible and Katrina's spelling is...phonetic!). I also have to help with costumes. Daniel is in charge of providing music. They are going to present their plays next Thursday when their grandparents are here (and other family members). It should be fun!
Well, off to another great day:) Hope yours will be awesome as well!
August 11, 2007
Nature Outing
Yesterday, the homeschool nature group that we belong to met at my father's place. He is blessed with 51 acres of mountain land that sits right against National Forest in Bedford County. Going there is like enjoyig a piece of heaven on earth (except for the gnats and no seeums...I am sure they won't be flying around in heaven). There was a good group yesterday: 7 moms and 15 children. Part of the purpose of going to my dad's was to peruse his large arrowhead collection and then to look in the tilled up ground to see if we could find any of our own. But it was hot and since arrowheads didn't pop up right away, the interest quickly waned and the kids headed to the creek. We spent the better part of four hours there. The moms talked and helped out when necessary.
The children found crawdads (one was a mom and babies came pouring off of her when the kids picked her up). They found salamanders and frogs. They enjoyed splashing one another and sliding down a water fall slide. I wish all children everywhere could have afternoons like that...playing, exploring and enjoying this beautiful world God has provided us with.
August 9, 2007
2007-2008 Schedule
Mon-Fri morning
6 am-8:30 - get up, devotions, shower, exercise, email, eat
Monday-Thursday morning
8:45-9 - wake up exercises with kids
9-9:30 History (SOTW)
9:30-10 Science (4-H projects)
10-10:30 Writing/Spelling (Natural Speller)
10:30-11:15 Grammar (first we have five poets we are going to read, then we are going to do a unit study on Pirates of the Caribbean, then we are going to do Simply Grammar)
11:15-12 Math (Silver Burdett grade 2 for Katrina and Saxon 7/6 for Jack)
12-1 lunch
Monday-Thursday Afternoons
Not scheduled, but piano, chores, errands, unfinished morning work, reading, playing
Friday
Spelling Test (every week)
Blue Ridge Nature Group (every other week, we get out and identify and net dip and such)
Story Starters (every other week)
Educational Board Games (every other week)
So, there it is. After reading over 200 entries in the homeschool open house at Tiany's, I decided it was time to make up our schedule. We are all very excited (Katrina wants to start tomorrow). I am trying to figure out where to start with Jack's spelling. We have never done spelling before, so I am starting with third grade words to see if there are any he has missed. So far out of a couple hundred words he has missed 5. Once we figure out where his spelling is, then we will start from there.
This year is going to be so much fun!!!!!
July 31, 2007
Homeschool Open House 2007: My Entry
Tiany at Less of Me, More of Him is hosting an awesome open homeschool open house! This is my entry as part of this fun event!
I homeschool in the foot hills of Virginia and I can't believe it, but I am beginning my 6th year at this (okay, 10 if you count since birth). I have a 10 1/2 year old son and a 7 1/4 year old daughter (they tell me those 1/2's and 1/4's are very important!) I have two grown stepsons 21 and 18 who attended public school And the reason we homeschool the younger two has a lot to do with our experiences with the older. Plus, my son recognized all the letters of the alphabet by the time he was 2 and was adding in his head by the time he was three. I didn't want to send him to school and have him be bored and learn to hate learning.
We were fortunate enough to land in a great homeschool group our very first year. We actually signed up and attended activities with three groups, but decided in the end that the Unschooling Group that encompassed a huge area was the group for us. There was a large mix of people who followed a variety of schooling methods. And of the three groups, this was the friendliest. The group has changed over the years as people have left homeschooling and started homeschooling. Different small groups have formed to create co-ops, class studies, drama groups, etc. There is always something that we can be part of.
July 26, 2007
HomeSchool Open House 2007
Tiany at Less of Me, More of Him is hosting an awesome open house from August 1 to August 15th. Not only is there guaranteed to be a huge amount of information that you can find about how others homeschool, but you will also be entered into a drawing for numerous, and I do mean numerous door prizes! So go check it out and get your entry ready to be part of the Homeschool Open House 2007!
June 1, 2007
Our Next Year Curriculum
I have been pretty much patchwork on curriculum over the past years. I use a little of this, a little of that. But this ran into complications. I would see something new and go...hey, let's add this and then we would never get it. We had way more stuff than we needed. Plus we would finish up something and I would feel compelled to do another book in that area. And then there was the lack of answers...several of the math books we have used I have had to come up with the answers on my own. As Jack gets older...that is taking up too much of my time. So here's what we are using this next year....
Story of the World. We are just starting this and the kids absolutely love it!!!!
Saxon Math for Jack (they have a new program and we are going to give it a whirl)
Silver Burdett Ginn Mathematics 2nd grade for Katrina (a hand me over math book, but it has the answers)
We are going to do unit studies for science. Currently we are working on the ocean and next up is geology.
Simply Grammar: An illustrated primer
Story Starters: Helping Children Write Like They've Never Written Before
Natural Speller
We will also continue to work with our Mona Brooks art book that we pick up off and on in our spare time. I feel relieved to have cleaner shelves and lots of great curriculum!
May 14, 2007
Homeschool Carnival, Week 72
If you have never visited a Homeschool Carnival, now is a great opportunity. Anne, at Palm Tree Pundit is from Hawaii and has some beautiful flowers to share with us as well as lots of great articles from homeschoolers. So grab a cup of coffee and go check it out!
And by the way, I have an article there too this week:)
May 13, 2007
I Must Be Doing Something Right
You know, we all wonder it...are we teaching our children the important things they need to know in life? Are they hearing our message? Are we getting through? Well, I see signs in my children that they are getting it and there couldn't be a more wonderful gift on this Mother's Day.
May 9, 2007
Old City Cemetery Field Trip
We are very lucky to live in an area of the United States rich in history. Now, I know that compared to Europe and Asia and Africa our history is short, but still for this side of the ocean, we do have a fair amount of history in our back yard. The Revolutionary War, the Civil War and all the things in between and after.
So when we go to pick a place to go on a field trip, our problem is not finding something to do, it is choosing what to do. I belong to a homeschool group that has a field trip database. Right now we have about 43 ideas on our list and that is by no means all the possibilities.
May 1, 2007
Field Trip: Virginia Safari Park and Natural Bridge Caverns
A fellow homeschooler and I went and visited Virginia Safari Park and Natural Bridge Caverns today. If you live in Virginia or are planning a visit this way, there is tons of stuff to do in Natural Bridge. The cavern is not the best Virginia has to offer, but the Safari Park was spectacular and fun!
The first animals we met at Safari Park ( a drive through park where the animals come to your car and eat from feed buckets that you purchase from the park) were the llamas.
This guy was the welcomer and the first to say hello.
This guy was very inquisitive and wanted to know just how much food we had...
And this guy said we weren't going anywhere until we had given him an appetizer!
Continue reading "Field Trip: Virginia Safari Park and Natural Bridge Caverns" »
April 19, 2007
Homeschool Carnival
If you have never been to a Homeschool Carnival, then you are in for a treat! When you visit a Homeschool Carnival, you will be reading informative articles, funny articles, inspiring articles...now in its 68th week, the Homeschool Carnival is a great place to visit while you sip on your morning cup of coffee!
Socialization Question
I read a great article on the Big Socialization question today over at "Just Call Me Jamin". I am going to make up an index card with the definition of socialize on it and when people ask me if I am concerned about it, I will whip that card and and inform them I am worried about it and that is why I homeschool;)
March 9, 2007
Homeschool Buyers Co-op
Today I found out about a great spot online! It is Homeschool Buyers Co-op and I have only begun to explore the website. But basically you can find great deals and discounts there. They also group together to power buy and save money! Be sure to check it out! You won't be disappointed!
February 21, 2007
Tips On Planning A Homeschool Co-op
Last spring, some friends and I started discussing the possibility of a co-op this year. We all really wanted to give this a whirl, but wanted to agree to some basics up front. We met a few times over the summer and began our co-op in September. It has been awesome!