Homeschooling A Houseful

so what have you been up to?

2011-01-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

ME!???

NOT MUCH!

A little of this.......

A little of that......

and a LOT of this......

Yes we are moving, not our blog, just our house!

Do you know how much work it is to pack up a houseful????

Will be back soon!

and hopefully with a LOT more of this......

It seems everywhere I go, I hear.....

2011-01-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

You have such good kids! Your children are so well behaved!
I might be at a family gathering, the grocery store, a home school activity, a field trip..... anywhere really. I hear this often, and it got me pondering about it. I thought I'd throw out my two cents on parenting. First off I MUST say that I do not live in a wonderful, blissful, always happy home. We have our trials, our bad days, and well those days when Mama Bear wants to just slip off to bed, and forget the day ever started. The problem with slipping away, is that you are just running from the problem. It will never get better, if it's never fixed. I can solve all your {and my own} problems in one simple word, CONSISTANCY. I don't care if you are a spanker, a time-out parent, a job or chore for discipline you name it and there's probably a discipline book written all about how to do it! I don't honestly feel it matters how you discipline, just that you do, and that you are consistant. I've read a few discipline books, but mostly heard theories from others, and can I just say there is one word that is always used, always part of the parenting tips, consistancy. The other day, at a homeschool activity, some of the Mom's were talking about Motivation. How do you motivate your children to do what they are supose to. Whether that means chores, school work, listening and obeying, how do you motivate? Honestly I can say, I don't motivate, I expect that our duties will be done and done right, or you will not get the reward of privleges. All priveledges are just that privledges. If you allow your children to misbehave in the home, and then allow them the reward/privledge of participating in an activity or outing, then why would they want to do their work? If they can play, have fun, do what they want to... and not work for it, why would they work? Honestly would you work, if you could play first?

This is a very well know scripture in the homeschool world....

Proverbs 22:6 (King James Version)
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

This scripture has such a powerful message, you may be training, in wisdom, in productivity, in character, or in religious views.... if you properly, consistantly train your children, they will not depart from it. It is God's promise to us.

To train, is this easy? NO!! Is it worth it? YES!!!

One of the points Papa Bear often reminds me, when I call him whining because one of the A's is giving me greif, is that if I stick to it, be consistant, it will be rewarding. I know when my A's are
being bad, it's because Mama Bear has given in. Mama Bear was too tired to train, Mama Bear didn't want to be bothered.... Mama Bear wasn't being consistant.

Proverbs 13:24 (King James Version)
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

This is another one of my favorite parenting scriptures. It is so true. Can you think of a parent, who doesn't want to be a parent? They want to be a best friend, not Mom or Dad, just a friend. Now don't get me wrong I want to be my children's best friend, someone they can come to whenever they feel they need someone to talk to. However their is a difference in being Mom/best friend and being just a best friend. How often would a Mom tell their children to do something dangerous, harmful or maybe even unlawful? Usually never, but sometimes, sadly they do. When they do, they are not being Mom, they are being a "best friend"

Proverbs 22:15 (King James Version)
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

Wow that one hit me, I don't think I've ever noticed this scripture before, not as a disciplinary scripture. We have a foolish, silly, giggly house. Sometimes it's fun, all the time, is too much. Guess I better get on the silliness!

Proverbs 29:15 (King James Version)
The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

Another one of my favorites. Just think about it, a child who is undisiciplined does bring it's mother to shame. Have you ever been at a park or children's museum, something like that. You notice a child who is... well to say it nicely, out of control. You can tell who the mother is because she will usually ignore the child, until she blows up and screams at them, and then seems to always be apoligizing for her child. She's not proud of this child, but is trying to hid from him.

Well since I didn't plan on writing a novel about this, just a few tips. I should probably stop! I could definitely go on and on about this subject. I do honestly love it! Yes I love discipline, why? If you have children who love you, want to serve you, and quickly do as they are told, it can only mean one thing.... a happy home!

a giveaway.....

2010-12-15T20:43:00.000-08:00

but don't look I want to win!

And definitely don't enter!!! I know a few girls, who would be in crafting heaven, if we won this! I am only telling you, because it gets me three extra entries!

No I do not need any competition, just a simple... YOU WON!!!!

okay, here's the link, but I'm telling you do not look at it!!!

RAW Berry Freezer Jam.....

2010-12-02T13:54:00.000-08:00

I came across an amazing deal on Raspberries, and well since I am feeling very pregnant and even the thought of canning right now, doesn't sound fun.... it sounds like a nightmare!!!! I decided to make some freezer jam. I made some years ago, and we enjoyed it. I came across this recipe for Raw Berry Freezer Jam, at Passionate Homemaking. I just love the Passionate Homemaking Blog, she has some of the best recipes, and healthy non-chemical cleaning tips! You should check out her blog!

UPDATE: I was looking at my blog and posts I never.... well....posted! I came across this one. Oh and we are loving this jam.....A++

let's talk, DIRTY LAUNDRY.....

2010-12-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

Photo credit here.

I can not believe we've never spoken of dirty laundry, around my blog! At least I didn't find any!! Thank goodness, no one wants to see my dirty laundry, that's for sure.

This is probably the second most asked question in my life. Number one?? You probably already guessed it,

Are they all yours???

Yeah you guessed right,

the next question usually stems from,

How do you get "IT" all done?

Usually I laugh, and say, somehow "it" all gets done, or at least most of "it".

One of the first "IT'S" is usually laundry.

So the other day when I was digging our couch out from under Mt. Washmore, I decided something has to change!!!!

and change it did....

I decided I can not wash, and sort all these clothes, it just isn't fair! So I dedicated one afternoon, each week for my A's to take care of their own laundry... ah sigh of relief.

Mondays= the boys day...Noble, Valiant and Boy do laundry

Tuesdays= Mama Bears day

Wednesdays= Virtue and Precious do their laundry

Thursdays= Charity and Peaceful's laundry day

Fridays= Whom ever needs an extra day to get it all done.

Mornings are Mama Bears time to take care of cloth diapers, sheets, baby boy clothes and sheets, towels or anything that needs to be cleaned asap, you know the likes, pee-ed on sheets, spit up shirts, thrown up on towels... you know the regular Mama Bear clean up jobs!

Then every day after lunch, starts the kids time to wash. They are in charge of sorting, loading, washing, drying, sorting and putting away. They also must wash any dirty towels, clothes or whatever is placed in front of the washer.

Oh the freedom, I am loving this new system. I am only in charge of Papa Bear, Baby Bear and Mama Bears clothes, cloth diapers and our sheets.

Every week the A's are suppose to wash their sheets and pillowcases, along with blankets if needed. You see one BIG problem I dealt with was washing clothes that were not dirty, for lack of folding and putting away. Well now if some little A decides to put clean clothes in the dirty clothes basket, they get to sort, wash, dry, sort and put it away... I don't even have to know. If a certain A really wants to add all that to their workload, well so be it!

sometimes you just need a little lift from above.....

2010-11-30T13:16:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit here.

¹⁴And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

¹⁵And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

¹⁶Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (Colossians 3:14-16, King James Version)

⁷That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works. (Psalm 26:7, King James Version)

the ABC's of my very own world.......

2010-11-23T18:22:00.002-08:00

Since it's been a long while since I blogged, and figured it would be nice to start off with a bang, or at least something fun! I thought I'd post the ABC's of my online world... here goes, hope you enjoy and maybe find a new fun place to linger in cyberspace......

A~ Amazon.com, however since I know, everyone knows that one... I'll add one more, Annie Elliott

B~Biblegateway.com, nothing like a computer doing the word search for you! Blogger, gotta love it!

C~Confessions of a Homeschooler, again well know... so how about Classical Conversations. We are not part of their co-op but I love looking over their suggestions and ideas. We are using their memory suggestions, spelling and dictation. I love how this is laid out.

D~Delightful Learning, love seeing all her posts, she always inspires. Dean's Academy, a good friend of ours, gotta love seeing your real friends in cyber space.

E~ Ebay, gotta love them, especially for their cloth diapers! Etsy, I love homemade, and supporting the little guys.

F~Friend.org, the kids love this site. FIAR love their boards, resources and such. I do hope to begin FIAR in our home, come the beginning of the new year. Flylady, a must for organization, I go there for inspiration and ideas

G~Project Gutenberg... I have a love of old books. Google, especially google maps... these help get us to most of our field trips. lots of research lately on Goat's Milk, baby number 8 decided he didn't like nursing, anymore. This is the recipe I am using, slightly altered.

H~ Higher up and Further in Charlotte Mason Style site, curriculum suggestions and ideas. Homeschool Educating Family Magazine, I love their magazine, blog and planner too, not just functional, but every so fashionable

I~Institute for Excellence in Writing, we are using their history based writing curriculum, LOVE IT! I-tunes, that's for Papa Bear, I never visit this site, but I make him download onto my Ipod too. Info Wars, if you want to be educated on the economy, government and well just about anything {controversial} you should visit this site.

J~ I love the Five J's, well they are all "J"'s! She always has the coolest links and tips!

K~KSL.com local free classifieds. Kate's kitchen, I love her Personal Pantry free recipe book download.

L~LDS.org we have used this a time or two for learning songs in sign language or ideas, scripture look up, and the kids love going to their children's site, friend.org.

M~ Milestone Academy, I love this site all the suggestions and ideas, books and links. Multiplication.com great for drill work we use it daily

N~No Greater Joy, I love to train up a child. Just started reading Created to be his Help Meet, good, so far. Nebonet, my Internet provider! Notebooking Pages, gotta love notebooking! Definitely check out their free section.

O~ Online shopping, online banking, online bill pay, online library book holds and renewals, gotta love being online!

P~Passionate Homemaking, always inspired always. Picnik, photo editing for free, sometimes it's bogged down, but for free who can complain?

Q~ Quiet Hour, not necessarily in cyberspace, but it's a time I usually get on my computer! This is for 1 hour after lunch and lunch clean up. Little guys head to naps, older kids head to their beds for some school and reading time. Love the QUIET!!!

R~Raising Olives, nothing like being in the world of another large homeschooling family! Robinson Curriculum, love the idea use many suggestions, but not all.

S~Simply Charlotte Mason, every time I look here, I am inspired. Swagbucks we are new to this but seems very interesting. Skype, we love Skype it keeps us in contact with Papa Bear when he's out of town

T~ Teaching Textbooks, I am so happy I am not trying to teach my math hater anymore!

U~Uncle Eric books, we love these books... we have learned so much from them.

V~Veritas Press and Vision Forum... love them both. We are often caught drooling over their catalogs. I have been listening to some of VF's CD's talk about inspiration.

W~Weather.com, this one's for Papa Bear. I should look hear more often, as I never know what the weather will be like! If I need to know, I usually ask Papa Bear!

X~ hmm.... you know it's the hardest letter in the alphabet to teach... and I guess use on the Internet too!

Y~ You Tube, one of our families favorites... though you must be careful. Yahoo my favorite search engine, not to mention Yahoo groups, the reason my inbox is always so full and cluttered.

Z~well all I can think of is phone Zoo! We love these for free phone ring's

August Field Trip... Wool and Yarn, and maybe a YAK!!!

2010-11-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I do realize it's not August anymore, but well like they say better late than NEVER!!!

In August our field trip group, went to a ladies home who spins wool and weaves yarn. It was very interesting, and hands on.

Here's a few highlights:

Showing us her small spinning wheel.

Explaining the process from wool... to yarn and how to begin!

and did I mention a YAK? Yes she has one, and uses it's wool too!!

More field trips to come, and updates on our houseful, soon!!!!

The BIG {little} announcement........

2010-09-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

announcing our newest little A...... just alittle late. What can I say, been busy!

Littlest A was born, September 4th.

Precious and Boy's upcoming year......

2010-08-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

For our preschool we will be using, lots of fun and games, educational activities we own, or I make. File Folders, etc.
I will also be doing a letter a week preschool from confessions of a homeschooler.
Peaceful will probably do a few of these activities too, as she would think they are fun!
Along with that, they will cause plenty of mischief and make tons of noise!!!!

PEACEFUL's upcoming year.... Kindergarten

2010-08-09T17:47:00.001-07:00

Along with our family studies, Peaceful will be working with her workboxes. She will have 12 boxes to complete through the day. Most are fun and games, with these included throughout. I also might try to incorporate five in a row, maybe with Valiant and Peaceful together, we will see... if I feel I can add one more thing to my teaching schedule or not!

MATH~ Peaceful is working with Rod and Staff Math.

PHONICS~ She is using Rod and Staff Phonics, we call them the green books. Along with that we are using the Abeka Sounds and Letters K. Peaceful, loves to color and do "busy work" so I am using that, with her for now!

HANDWRITING~ Peaceful is using a reason for handwriting K. This is one of my favorite parts of this curriculum. She learns each letter individually. Then there is an animal we discuss for each letter, and she colors it. The A's have enjoyed keeping these, as animal notebooks!

BIBLE/COLORING/BREAK TIME!!!~ We have used the Abeka Bible Friends for my last 3 A's. It has been a fun break time for them.

READING~ Peaceful has been reading for about 6 months. We simply choose a book for all the beginning readers we have around here, and she reads to me.

Laundry Detergent UPDATED....

2010-08-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

I am letting everyone know that I just updated my laundry detergent recipe, click here to see the update and new recipe.... I am now loving this detergent. I like it before, and felt it was helping with the budget, but not quite up to Mt. Washmore, and all the stains and dirt that 7 little A's can make, along with their Papa Bear. {Okay so Mama Bear is definitely up on the list of spilling on herself! Whenever I get bibs out for the youngest A's, Papa Bear, teases me and asks where mine is!!!}
This stuff actually bubbles in the washer!!! I love seeing bubbles!!!

Valiants upcoming year....3rd grade.....

2010-08-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

Valiant has a hard time studying and staying on task. I think this might be the year, he is finally finding a reason to read, and seeing that maybe holding still long enough and putting forth enough time and practice to finally learn! He too tends to lead to the right brained learner style.
Along with our regular family lessons, Valiant will also be doing the following....

PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL~ Every morning, Valiant reads 2-3 verses in his scriptures.

MATH~ Valiant uses the Rod and Staff math. I like using this until around the 3rd level for my younger A's. It seems to work. Valiant is on level 2. I will have him also do the multiplication.com website.

PHONICS~ Valiant is using the Rod and Staff phonics, we call them the green books!

SCIENCE~twice a week Valiant, Peaceful and I will read through the Abeka Science Reader, enjoying God's world.

HANDWRITING~ Valiant is also using the Reason for Handwriting Series.

SPELLING~ We will see how this will work out. I have the Abeka Spelling for him to start this year.

READING~ Valiant has one read alone book, and one read with Mama Bear book to read each day. Some we read for a set time or set page, so the entire book. These are always his picks, though sometimes I make suggestions.

RELIGIOUS READING~ Valiant also spends 30 minutes after lunch each day, reading a religious book.

Along with these Valiant uses workboxes. He has 12 workboxes to do a day. I fill the extra workboxes with file folder, games, flashcards, online games or educational websites.. etc...etc..etc.

Charity's upcoming year..... 5th grade....

2010-08-03T12:17:00.001-07:00

Along with our family studies, Charity will be doing the following as her independent studies.

PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL AND JOURNAL~ Every morning each of the A's has a personal scripture devotional time. They are reading through the scriptures 1 chapter a day. She journals about what she read, copies on scripture from the chapter. Then she also journals about her life, or something she wants to write about.

MATH~ Charity is currently working through Rod and Staff Mathematics. She has almost completed 4 and will probably move into Saxon 54 or 65. I will test her and see which is a better fit for her. Along with that she will be working with the online math facts drills... Multiplication.com. This is a daily subject. Again she must get less than 10 wrong to pass off the lesson.

GRAMMAR~ Charity is working with Easy Grammar 3. This will be a daily subject.

SPELLING~ Charity is using Spelling Workout, along with Noble. She is working on level D. This is 1 lesson per week. Pre-Test taken on day 3 {typically Wednesdays} If she gets 100% on this she doesn't have to take the final test on day 4 {typically Thursdays} Along with the lesson, she writes all the words in her own sentences.

VOCABULARY~ Charity began Wordly Wise 5 at the end of last year. She will finish that book. She will also use the online drill same as Noble. This will help her to pronounce all the words correctly every day. She completes 1 lesson every 5 days {a week} along with an oral test on day 4 {typically Thursday} She also writes all the words in her own sentences due by day 5 {typically Friday}

WRITING~She has been using A Reason for Handwriting. She has been using level T. This is the transition into cursive level. She has had interest in learning cursive for a long time, however I have not been impressed enough with her penmanship that I wouldn't let her move on! I did show her how to write her name, and help her fix anything she writes, for fun in cursive. She has finally fixed her penmanship enough, I will be starting her in the cursive section. This book has about half of it as a penmanship review. I let the kids move into cursive, once they prove their penmanship is worthy!!!

TYPING~ She is using the same typing program as the other two A's, Typing Instructor Deluxe. This is scheduled for 1 lesson and 1 game or a max of 15 minutes 3 times a week.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE~ Charity is also using Rosetta Stone, as the older A's. This is scheduled for 3 times a week. Along with this we are learning different words and the alphabet, along with some songs, in sign language. I also am planning on learning Hebrew as a family.

LOGIC~ Charity is also doing Mind Benders for logic. This is scheduled for 2 times a week. However I am looking at the building thinking skills program, too. If I add this, we will change it to 4 times a week, and it will be 2 lessons in MB and 2 lessons in BTS.

MUSIC~ Charity will also be taking personal piano lessons. Along with that she will do Music Ace This is scheduled for 1 lesson and 1 activity 3 times a week. She will also be doing our family music appreciation lessons, and family recorders.

READING~ Charity will also be reading 3 different topics, 3 times a week for 30 minutes each time. She will read Classic, Science and History. She did not want to do her own science or history curriculum this year. She will be doing those subjects with our family studies and her independent readings. She will also be assigned different books to read through the week, on topics we are studding together.

INDIVIDUAL MEMORY WORK~ Each of the A's will choose different things to memorize. We will discuss them and choose them together.

PERSONAL WRITINGS~ This is something new we started. Each week Charity will either write a rough draft or finalize her rough draft into a final copy. She can write anything she wishes. She has 2 pen pals she writes back and forth with. She can also write stories, which is something she has always enjoyed, hymns, poems, whatever. It has to be personal and not copied.

Virtues upcoming year.... 6th grade....

2010-07-30T21:06:00.001-07:00

Along with our family studies, Virtue will be completing the following as her independent studies. Let me just say, it was a struggle teaching Virtue in the beginning. She doesn't learn, at all like Noble, and well Noble learns in "MY" style. I have had to change a lot of "MY" thinking when it comes to Virtue. This is not saying she is not as smart, or not as talented. She definitely has her strong points, as do all kids. For a long time I pushed her to do what I wanted, and forced her to work her way through different curriculum.... only to push her to a point she was over loaded and bogged down. It has taken some time for me to figure out what works for her, and even then sometimes I choose something, she isn't untested in! If you have ever had a child who didn't learn in the typical learning style. You really should look into Right Brain Learners... this is what finally made learning click with Virtue! This is a link to Dianne Craft, this is the first site I found and the one who brought the light {and tears} to my eyes. {I will try to post more information on this later, as Valiant tends to lean toward the right brain too. I'd also LOVE to compare my right/left and somewhat middle children!!!}

PERSONAL SCRIPTURE STUDY AND JOURNALING~ Every morning the kids read at least one chapter in their scriptures... whatever book they are currently studying. They choose either one scripture from the chapter to copy, or can summarize the chapter or story they are reading. Along with that, they write in their journals, keeping their history. I do not read these, but they do show them to me once a week and I just skim over what they wrote and give suggestions, and insights.

MATH~ Math has been a long hard road with Virtue. This year we are trying Teaching Textbooks with her. I think the one on one interaction, instant answers, instant checking and fixing of problems will help her. We shall see. This is not my style, but I think it will appeal to her learning style. I had her do some of the sample lessons online, and get a feel for it. She's not loving it, but she enjoyed it. She will be in Math 5. Along with that, she will do math speed drills. I don't believe these are included in her math, so I will either copy some from other math curriculum I have, or online. She will also do Mulitiplication.com, an online self checking drill. It also includes math games. Oh and it's not just Multiplication, I did a post on this earlier here.

GRAMMAR~ Virtue is also using Easy Grammar. She does not use the daily grams, but I might purchase them to add, haven't decided yet. It might overload her. She is easily overloaded on "busy" work and workbooks. She is in level 3. Again this is a subject I never got going until last year. So we are all a little behind in it. This is being bumped up to a daily subject this year.

HANDRWRITING~ We use A reason for handwriting in our homeschool. Virtue will be beginning level ??D?? this year. This is one lesson per week. This program is broken down into usually 4 lessons, with some of the words practiced before, then a scripture is copied for lesson 5. The scripture is copied onto cute paper, with either pictures to color, or space to draw. The kids have to complete the 3-4 review lessons, plus corrections, and the last lesson plus corrections, plus finish decorating or coloring their final copy by day 5 {typically Friday}

SPELLING~ Spelling is another one of Virtues {un} "favorite" subjects! I had her using spelling workout as the other kids do, and it was too much for her. She struggled and struggled with it. Then we switched to a homemade spelling. I would choose around 10-15 words a week for her to use. She would copy them each day. Then each word she would break up into usually syllables or "chunks" that she could remember easier for drilling. She would also write each word in a sentence {which is where I found a lot of her spelling words!!} She would also illustrate each word. In the illustration, she had to also write the word, as part of the picture. This worked for awhile, until I saw a new curriculum....Spelling Wisdom, I purchased book 2.
We will see how it goes. If it doesn't work, we will return to the other way. Mom will just have to be better organized with collecting her words, and be more patient in this area! I will probably also have her copy the passage after she has passed it off. Since she won't have words, to write sentences.

VOCABULARY~ Again a subject she struggled with using the same curriculum as the other two older A's. She is using the book, Vocabulary Cartoons. Again not something I would choose as my first choose. It took me some time to okay it with myself. The amazing thing is she really does remember them, and it's definitely something like what is suggested in the Right Brain Research I did. For this, she reads through her words every day. Then on day 3 {typically Wednesdays} she has an oral drill. If all words are defined right, then she doesn't have to take her final test on day 5 {typically Fridays} Each section has 10 words in it. I have her do 5 words a week, for two weeks, then the review on week 3. She also has to write each word in her own sentence, due by day 5 {typically Friday}

MUSIC~ Virtue will continue with her private piano lessons. Along with our family records. She will also play Music Ace 1 lesson and 1 activity 3 times a week.

READING~ Virtue is scheduled to read three different topics 3 times a week for 3o minutes each time. She reads a classical book, history book, and a science book. In the past this has been their own choice, and we record it on a reading log. This is probably what we will continue.

RELIGIOUS READING~ this is done after lunch and lunch clean up. The kids all go to their beds for a 30 minute quite reading time. This is also Mom's quite re-boot her engines time! The kids get to choose any religious reading, and read it for 30 minutes. We keep a reading log, to remember what they have or haven't read.

SCIENCE~ This is one of Virtues favorite subjects, as long as it involves nature! She will be finishing the Exploring creation with Botony Book. She will also use the notebook. Since this is an independent subject, it makes it easier for Mom to make sure she is doing everything! She is currently scheduled for 1 lesson every 2 weeks. I will see how that works out, and adjust as needed. I think she might be able to do one lesson a week, or maybe in a week and a half??

TYPING~ Virtue is actual one of the kid typers in the house. She will be continuing using the same program as Noble and Charity, Typing Instructor Deluxe. 1 lesson and 1 game, max of 15 minutes 3 times a day.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE~ She will also be using the Rosetta Stone Program. I have them scheduled for 3 times a week, I will see how that works.Along with that we will be learning Sign Language and {hopefully} Hebrew as a family.

LOGIC~ For Logic we have some of the mind benders. I am also looking into the building thinking skills series. Currently this is set for 2 times a week, but if I purchase the other program I will probably move it up to 3 or 4 times.

PERSONAL WRITING~ this is something we started this year. Each week the kids will write their own personal writing. This can be letters to friends or family, writing a personal poem or hymn, story, whatever! Each week they will work on either a rough draft, or correct and finalize a final draft. So each item will take them 2 weeks to complete, unless it is something long and needs more time.

INDIVIDUAL MEMORY WORK~ this is memory work that interests Virtue.

INDEPENDENT STUDIES RESEARCH PROJECTS~ One of these will be due every 4 weeks. I might change that to 6 weeks, to work with our yearly schedule better? This is an individual research project. It is on any topic that interests the kid, and is done in a way that is pleasing to the child. I will not give any requirements on these, it will be something for them to figure out. Obviously I will be here for support and help with questions.

ART~ this is something I am considering adding to her studies, artistic pursuits. Art is an "elective" she is interested in. I would like to add a curriculum to help her with this talent. I am not the most artistic, so a curriculum to follow would be nice for her. We do art with our other subjects as a family, along with added crafts and things... however I would like her to have a more hands on approach, too.

To see how I keep it all together, here's a look at Nobles IS sheet. They are all similar in layout, and I have just individualized them, where needed.

How do I keep it all straight?........

2010-07-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

Here is a look at Nobles IS sheet.

Not all his IS subjects are included, there are a few I will add later. There are a few subjects I mentioned, but don't know how often he will complete them. This will give a general idea of how I keep it all {somewhat} straight!

Notice they also turn in their planners every day 5 {typically Fridays} so I can look it over and make sure everything was completed. Along with that they must show it to me daily, before I okay them to be done with school. If I noticed they didn't complete much, or as much as I would have liked. I will make suggestions, but I only suggest. The only time I require is on Day 5, the whole sheet must be finished... no exceptions. All the kids have had weeks where they have "learned it the hard way" but that's how it goes, sometimes.

Nobles upcoming year.... 8th grade

2010-07-29T17:09:00.000-07:00

WOW 8th grade... now that's scary!!!

along with our family time studies Noble will be doing the following, mostly independently. I am uncertain if he will participate in all our family time studies, the decision will be made by how much time he needs for his independent school work. He will definitely join us in Music Appreciation, Art Studies, Read Alouds, Family Scripture Studies, Nature Studies, PE, Music, and Morning Calendar Time, History read alouds. History Notebooks and projects, Science and Geography are uncertain. It will probably depend on his interest!

PERSONAL SCRIPTURE STUDY AND JOURNALING~ Every morning the kids read at least one chapter in their scriptures... whatever book they are currently studying. They choose either one scripture from the chapter to copy, or can summarize the chapter or story they are reading. Along with that, they write in their journals, keeping their history. I do not read these, but they do show them to me once a week and I just skim over what they wrote and give suggestions, and insights.

HISTORY~ Living History, life before Christ an LDS Perspective. He will be completing 1 Epoch every 4 weeks, including projects and extra readings. Trust me this will not stretch him, he loves history and works quickly through it.

SCIENCE~ Apologia General Science, he will be finishing this book, and then Noble wants to move into Chemistry, but I am thinking Physical Science. He will complete 1 lesson every 2 weeks, including experiments, journal, illustrations/graphs from book, additional information on CD, and test and study time. I think this is reasonable. We went at a slower rate last year, and we both felt it was too slow, by the end of the year.

RELIGIOUS READINGS~ This is done after lunch and lunch clean up. This is Mom's quiet time! little ones down for naps, and older ones read daily for 30 minutes!!! YEAH!!!! During this time they can read any religious book, of their choice and interest. Noble has read many biographies, autobiographies and church history books throughout the years. We have incorporated this into our school plans.... for years and years!

ECONOMICS/GOVERNMENT~ This is another of Nobles favorite subjects! He will read through the books from bluestocking press. He does this 3 times a week and for 30 minutes each time. Along with that I will be watching for an online class/seminar for him to participate in. He attended an online class last end of winter into spring, he LOVED it. It was about the constitution, and they read parts of the constitution, and the 5000 year leap. This is lead by Noble and his interests.

ENGINEERING/DRAFTING~ This is another of Nobles interests. I found a workbook at Barnes and Noble, and he works through 1 lesson per week. It is mostly teaching him how to draw plans, free hand. Art and sketching are not his best subject, but I feel it's important to learn some of this first before learning on a computer. That will be our next step, finding a computer program for him to use.

SPELLING~ He is currently finishing Spelling Workout G. He will begin Spelling Workout H. next. Again we do one lesson per week. Each day he will write his spelling list, and the new rule learned. He also has to write his own Spelling Sentences, using his words. We take a pre-test on Day 3 {typically Wednesdays} if he gets 100% he doesn't have to do a final test on day 5 {typically Fridays}

VOCABULARY~ Noble is using Wordly Wise 3000. He will be starting Level 8 this year. I also just found an online word list. I currently have him scheduled to listen to the online word list daily, to hear proper pronunciation. This is also his daily study time. One thing I noticed with the last book, was sometimes during our tests, he wouldn't recognize the word, because he wasn't pronouncing it correctly!!! We have a pre-test, oral only on Day 3 {typically Wednesdays} and again if he gets them all correct, he doesn't have to take the final test on Day 5 {typically Fridays} He completes one lesson per week, due on day 5. He also writes all his vocabulary words in his own sentences due by day 5.

GRAMMAR~ We are using Easy Grammar and Daily Grams. He is in level 5. This is because we never could find a grammar program we both liked!!! So we are trying to play catch up in Grammar, but I am fine with where he is and his progress. We were doing this less last year, this year we are bumping grammar up to a daily subject.

SAT PREP~ Every day Noble gets a SAT question in his email. He simply answers it and reports if he got it right. If he doesn't know the answer or gets it wrong, he reads through the link for help. This is simply to get him use to a "test" like this, and to see what skills we need to work on. Some of the questions he simply doesn't know, because he's not to that level in a subject. That's okay too, he just guesses, and reads about it!

MATH~ My rule of math is pretty strict, the kids can only get 10 questions wrong in his whole lesson, to pass it off. I figure it's better to know the information than it is to go on! He is using Saxon 87 right now, he is almost finished in it. Then he will move onto Saxon Algebra later in the year. He has to do the Mental Math, Facts Tests and Problem solving {we call it the box} He reads his lesson, and does all of the lesson related problems. Then I rotate through doing evens or odds for his practice/review part of the lesson. I correct it the first time, then he re-works any wrong answers. I then correct it again the second time. He must get 10 or less wrong. Sometimes he will get less but if I notice he still didn't do it correct, I will have him do that question the next day along with the next lesson. If he gets a lot wrong on the new lesson problems, then I will not pass it off, even if it is less then 10. Yeah I am one of those mean MATH TEACHERS!!!!

HANDWRITING~ Noble and I decided his handwriting is typically very nice {when he tries!!} So he finished his last handwriting workbook. This year he will be choosing a scripture each day, and copying it. He can also choose a quote or thought he hears or reads somewhere too.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE~ He will be re-starting our Rosetta Stone, Spanish. We were going good with this, and then had computer problems, and well it's taken forever for us to get it up and going again. I will probably try to find him another program as he has interest in learning this fluently. I know he has interest in other languages, so we will see if he chooses to add more.

LATIN~ again one I haven't decided on completely. Noble wants to learn it, and I am just comparing programs. Will post when decided.

LOGIC~ Noble is working through Cranium Crackers, and Fallacy Detective. This is done 4 times a week, 2 times in each book. Sometimes to mix it up, he will do a lesson in our Mind Benders. Along with that he will begin the book, how to read a book. This might be one we read together, I want to read it too. I began reading it, but well it got pushed to the side!!

MUSIC~ Noble will continue with his private piano lessons. Along with that I purchased Music Ace for use during the summer, when I took time off from practices and activities. Noble will continue this doing about 3 lessons per week, is what I have scheduled. If it seems too much I will reduce it. He is also interested in learning guitar, and purchased a guitar a few years back. I think I finally found him a teacher I am willing to let teach him!! I want it to be all classical and religious.... none of the crazy stuff. We are very particular in what types of music we listen to, hence I don't want him playing crazy things on instruments either!

TYPING~ We have been using the program Typing Instructor Deluxe. The kids enjoy it, and it's sort of a break from regular studies! They complete one lesson 3 times a week and play the games related to it for up to 15 minutes total per day. Along with that, he is using the computer more for web searches, and on websites of interest.

INDEPENDENT MEMORY WORK~ this will be things of interest to him. Knowing Noble he will start with memorizing the constitution. I will have them report and try to pass off every week. This will be done completely independently, and solely be on their terms. Once it is passed off, he will also copy it into his memory journal.

WRITING~ We will be trying out the program Writing Strands. He will be doing Level 4. I am uncertain how often he will do this, I just purchased the books, and need to look through them to make the decision.

READING~ I am still pondering over this, but I think I will make a list of books I want him to read every 6-7 weeks {which is typically how long I "plan" out our studies} Then he can read them as he chooses.

MOM AND ME READING~ this is a new thing I am adding to our day. Once a week, I will read aloud to or with one child for roughly 15-20 minutes. We will begin by reading the book boyhood and beyond. I am hoping to get through 1 chapter a week with the older kids. Once we finish it, I will pick another book. I want this time for my older kids to be about growing up, working hard, older kids character training so to speak. As we complete books, I will post what we choose. This is something I am very excited to start with the kids. It's hard to get one on one time, with almost 8 kids around here!!!!!

PERSONAL WRITING~ This is something we have just started. All the older kids will be doing it. He will write one rough draft or correct and write one final draft per week. So the same paper will typically be worked on for 2 weeks, unless they choose to do it quicker. This will again be with their own interests. They can write letters to friends or family, write a poem or words to a song, they can even compose a piece of music, with words. It can be anything written, and has to be done personally... no copying, or copywork. Again this is due on day 5 {typically Fridays}

GEOGRAPHY~ Noble will be continuing using the study guide, around the world in 180 days. Noble will complete one location every 4 weeks. The guide has vocabulary, mapping locations, culture questions, religious questions, geographical questions.... and on and on. Once he has completed all the questions and "work" he then chooses one suggested project or comes up with his own to complete. Last year he was doing these on post boards.... but this year I am going to have him do them on file folders, like lapbooks. Then we can store them easier! I do not make him follow the outline of locations, he can pick and choose where he wants to "go" each time.

INDEPENDENT RESEARCH STUDY PROJECTS~ This is just what it says! Anything he wants to know about, anything he questions.... and trust me he questions, everything! He will choose a project, subject, or have a question. Then he will research it, and do something to prove he learned about it! Very independent, I give very little advice or suggestions. He will complete one of these every 4 weeks. Unless it's something he is really working on and needs more time. If it became a much larger project then he had anticipated! The idea of this, is to open the world up to the kids. I don't want to make it a big deal, you missed your deadline. I want it to be a look at what I learned, project!

SCOUTING MERIT BADGES~He will continue earning and working on his scouting merit badges. I do not give requirements on how many to do each week, or when to do them. I just have him mark in his planner when he does work on them. He is very self motivated in the scouting program. I might suggest that he do a little more work on them the next week, if I notice he's not working on them very often. This is also something he does in his spare time.

Most of these subjects will be graded, at Nobles request. We don't have to keep grades or keep scores on subjects here. However he wants to do it. I will be using the 10 subject grade form to keep his grades.

This seems like a lot of work, but it's very manageable for Noble. He is a hard worker, and very self motivated. He also loves to learn. I am sure he will accomplish all this with in 2-3 hours a day. Along with our family studies he will school for around 4-5 hours a day. Which isn't bad, especially for an 8th grader, who wants to learn!

Along with all that, you can guarantee, he will do plenty of independent reading throughout the day. He is definitely one of the book worms of the family. We visit the library, and bookmobile, or he can look through our home library. He has outgrown a lot of his playing stage. {he actual outgrew it about 5 years ago!!} He typically spends his free time, reading, researching or learning and thinking!

Family Time Curriculum......

2010-07-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

I am an organizer, planner and maybe over achiever! {No I didn't say that, that was Papa Bear jumping in!!! HEE, HEE}

I have started this post a few times, and it always became so LONG, and overwhelming!! I decided to break it down into Family Time, and then the children individually, or as they will be doing things together.
Family Time

Family Scripture Study~ every morning with Papa Bear. We simply read through at least 1 chapter of scriptures. We are currently in the Old Testament. Once finished, we will have read the entire set of scriptures as a family!! Then we will start all over again!

Music~ we sing the same songs, and hymns the entire week. Making them more familiar to us. I try to find ones we don't know, or don't know as well. I choose one from the LDS Hymnal, one from the LDS Children's song book, one educational, one patriotic, and sometimes throw in one seasonal or fun song too. I am also hoping to continue the recorder lessons we started at the beginning of last year.... only this time I would like to do it all year!! We also visit a local care center once a month and preform some of these songs along with our memory work and music, piano pieces.

Memory Work~ Typically we do one poem, one scripture, one patriotic quote or something patriotic, one educational/character building/or one something that sounded great!! I am also going to add individual memory work for the older kids to work on. {that will come later in the individual posts!}

Morning Calendar Time~ I will post all about the updates we've made to this for the coming year.

History~We will be using the My Father's World, Creation to Greeks. I do not plan to do all the festivals and meals as in the book. We will discuss them, and maybe do one or two, but I can not handle that much!!

Science~ We will be doing family science with the My Father's World package. It uses the book Genesis for kids. Along with that there are a few other books, Dinosaurs in Eden, Pyramid, and Archimedes and the Door of Science. I am unsure if Noble will always join us in this, I will see how his schedule plays out, and his time.

Nature Study~I am planning on doing a twice a month nature study. I will be using sources like the outdoor nature hour. I will be planning these each month. I am planning on going with the children's interests and making plenty of bunny hops and running along different trails as we do this. We will also make nature notebooks. I am uncertain how this will work in the Winter months, I might try to incorporate more science hands on experiments.. learning about things like volcano's, and hurricanes and such. Then at least once a month I plan on going on a nature walk/hike.

Music Appreciation~ Again this was included in our My Father's World package. We will focus on these three composers,Vivaldi, Bach, and Handel.

Art~ Again is included in our MFW package, God and the history of Art. This looks really fun and exciting!!! Along with that I am sure we will do a few craft and fun art projects throughout the year.

Vocabulary~ Our lessons will focus on Greek roots this year using English from the Roots Up.

Geography~ This one is still a little undetermined. I have Galloping the Globe, and there is an awesome website, homeschool creations. She made great printables and lesson plans to go with this. My thoughts are that we will do world geography 2 times a week. Using this and I am going to incorporate more for the older A's. I do not plan to go to the extent of these lesson plans, because we are not doing geography as our main subject, as she did. Then once a week we will study The States. I don't really have a plan or curriculum for this yet.... still pondering. There are some items in the Galloping the Globe. So it's time to stop dragging my feet on this, and get it all together!!! Once I figure it out, I'll try to remember to post.

Read Alouds~ We will use the suggested read alouds in the MFW package. We will also continue with our lunch time read alouds. Each child chooses a book for the lunchtime read aloud, rotating youngest to oldest.

Foreign Languages~ I am working out the details of learning Hebrew together. I am thinking this will begin after the new baby is born. I want to get everything else working well first! We also learn words and songs in Sign Language together.

Character~ for this we simply read and discuss! I love the polite moments, and then we use other fun books, like wisdom and the Millers. I will try to give a running list of these, at a later time.

PE~ YEAH!!! I am so excited {as are all the A's} about this. Our local homeschool community, has decided to start a twice a month PE class. The mom's will all help with teaching, and younger kids control. The first time we meet, we will discuss a new game, the rules, and practice some of the basics. The second time we meet, we will play the game and have fun. Each month will be a different group game. Even though we have a large family, trying to play large group games doesn't always work out so well!! Even though I do try to get out and play with them often, it so doesn't work out.

Phew!!! That was a lot of typing... tons of planning! However we will finish all of that in around 2 hours each day! It seems like a ton, but it's broken down into doable chunks. With the MFW package, they don't schedule a lot for Fridays. I plan to use our Fridays for PE, Nature Study, and catch up. I have four family time blocks in our schedule. This will last for 2 hours, and will incorporate all these things. I will post our update schedule shortly!

Healthy on a budget, Homemade Laundry Soap.....

2010-07-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't notice, there are MANY people talking about their budgets lately. The economy, the price of everything, and how they will ever survive. Trust me, we have felt it too, being a family of almost 10.... it hurts! So I have decided to share a few tips and tricks that keep this houseful afloat!

Homemade Laundry Detergent

This really is easy! I was in the middle of washing, Mt. Washmore yesterday... and ran out of our first round of homemade soap. What did I do??? I made more!! I loaded the washer, started it with the last of what I had, and then made more within maybe 15-20 minutes. The kids always get a kick out of making our own laundry soap! There's something "fun" to a kid, about it. It's so easy, I usually have a few helpers.

UPDATED~ 2 Cups of baking soda {see update below}
2 bars of Kirks Castile soap OR Fels Naptha Soap bars
2 cups of washing soda
2 cups of borax
{all of which I have found at our local grocery stores... interesting, you use to only be able to find the borax local!}
Water

Grate the soap, this is probably the hardest part.... and trust me it's not hard. Add 2 quarts of hot water to a large pot. Place on the stove on a low setting. Add the soap, stir continually until dissolved. Add borax and washing soda. Stir until thickens, over low heat.
Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full with hot water. Add the soap mixture. Add more water to fill not quite full.
Funnel into recycled detergent bottles {or vinegar bottles, as I use!}
Shake before use.

I also add vinegar to my rinse cycle as a fabric softener.
When I wash our cloth diapers, I add 2-4 or so scoops {about 1 tablespoon each} baking soda to the wash.
If I am washing something that could use an extra boost to help with stains, I add a little more borax to the wash too.
This doesn't sud up like other detergents, but it still cleans just as well.

UPDATE~
I think I found a better recipe! This last batch I used Fels Naptha bars, and added 2 cups of baking soda. I also add Oxi clean to the beginning cycle. By the way, this makes bubbles, there's just something about bubbles in the washer!!!! Along with those, I do the same directions as above.

free download, cookbook.....

2010-07-20T07:25:00.000-07:00

Molly Green FRESH!!!! Cookbook download.

This looks like a great recipe book, and it has some great tips, throughout the pages.
Here's a small treat of what you will get.

Bring smiles to your gang and guests with some of these palate-pleasing goodies:

•Mango Lime Sorbet—fresh is best and nutritious too.
•Something-Special Lemonade—with watermelon ice cubes.
•Grilled Fruit Shish Kebabs With Chocolate Sauce—a perfect party idea!
•Fresh Lemonade Popsicles—a fun-in-the-sun special treat.
•Fruit Smoothie—suit yourself with variation ideas.
•Yogurt, Fruit, & Granola Parfaits—fun to make and eat

Go get yours free, here!

Hobby Lobby... you get my craft bucks!......

2010-07-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

last year is the first year I saw these ads Hobby Lobby {the ultimate craft store} puts out in local newspapers for Independence Day. They run a full page add {take about some serious bucks} all about the Constitution, patriotism, and God and our country! The above picture was for the 2010 Independence day.

If you go to this website, Hobby Lobby Holiday Messages, you can see all of the ads they have done, along with downloading them. I have a feeling we will be adding a few of these to our decor, especially in Noble's room. He loves all things Constitutional!!

I had no idea they also had Christmas and Easter ones too! They all have a Christian/Godly appeal to them.

I figure if Hobby Lobby can spend their money on such a wonderful {and I am sure over looked} item. That is so important and giving.... well then I will definitely support them. They are "throwing out" their hard earned cash, for a wonderful cause, and they deserve our support!!

happy Independence Day......

2010-07-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

Have you read the Declaration of Independence? If not I challenge you to do it! Not just read it, but learn it, ponder it, pray about it, and understand it. This is real His-Story... it is what has made us free.... and yet where is our freedom?
We should learn, not just what was said, but who said it. These are the true hero's our children need. Why are we so excited that our children love the princesses, or the new toy story characters.... and yet do they even know why we celebrate Independence Day?
We asked the older A's, and I was surprised how much they didn't know! How much they never connected... we have studied and learned about it, but they never connected it. Except NOBLE who tends to love His-story. Once NOBLE said the correct answer the others followed right behind. There was just never that connection.
This is one of the most important holidays, in my opinion. It's a time to bring the history of America, alive and "real" for you and your children.
Let's all consider how we celebrate Independence day, and start some real traditions for our next to come!

and if you haven't read, or would like to re-read the Declaration of Independence, I have added it to this post, for your enjoyment!

The Declaration of Independence
When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpation's, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpation's, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.
He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolution's, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpation's, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.
— John Hancock
New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton
Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry
Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott
New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris
New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton
Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn
South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton
Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

labels drop down.....

2010-07-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Just cleaning up the mess on the blog.... sometimes I feel like that's all I do, clean up messes!!!!
If you have always wanted to make your labels into a drop down, here's the link to what I used. I scrolled down to the second code, so I could have the numbers behind my labels. I didn't actually edit it, in size or wording.... thought it looked fine as was. Hope this helps someone out!!!

Pre-primer Sight Words and games.....

2010-07-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

I came across this super cute Noah's Ark Bingo to go with pre-primer Dolch Sight Words. I made some simple cards of the list. There are other levels, to go with the Dolch Words too.

Singing at the Care Center.....

2010-06-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

We started meeting with 2 other local homeschool families, to sing to the residents of the care center. Our first time was in December, we thought Christmas Caroling to the residents would be fun. The older children also memorized different scriptures. It was good. At first the kids were somewhat nervous and scared. However we decided to continue this every month since, and it has become a joy. Not only to the kids, at least I know my A's love and look forward to it, but also the residents. They are so cute there, and excited to see us.
I am only saying this because it doesn't take much. You don't have to do a huge presentation. The simplicity of having us come, makes their day!!!!

So how do we do it?
The three mom's involved rotate turns of planning. Planning is simple, we choose 3-4 common children's songs, religious songs, or hymns. These are for our group to sing together. Then during the week before we go, we email the person in charge what each of our families will be doing. So if we are going to sing a family song, or maybe just the older 3 A's will sing, or maybe the younger girls with the help of an older sister, piano pieces, recorders, lap harps, memorized a poem, or a scripture. The ideas are endless, truly. These are all things we try to incorporate into our school studies anyways. It also helps us to remember to add these things to our studies!!!

This is a wonderful addition to our school, and life. It's something we love to do, to bring joy and cheer to others lives. And it's okay that the little ones are dancing around and goofing off.... honestly it is, the residents love to watch and play with them!

Fruits of the Spirit Unit......

2010-06-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

Something in the "planning stages" around here, is a family religious unit study. I am uncertain, how this will all be played out. I am sure I will have my way, and then quietly I will hear HIS voice sneaking it and telling me how to do it! I have had a very strong feeling that we need to work with the fruits of the spirit, here. I was thinking over the A's and my attitudes lately, and feel a little more fruit will do our attitudes good! Originally I was thinking of doing about one unit a month and working with the unit either daily or a few times a week. However after searching and finding so many great resources, I am thinking of doing a unit on the fruits of the spirit in general, and then spending a month on each individual fruit. Ponder and Pray, that's what I will be doing a lot of the rest of this week, into the weekend. I want it all finalized and ready to go by July, to jump start our July studies, but again it's all in HIS hands. I will let you know more as I get it all together, as for now here are a few links I have found, to ponder and pray over.

Danielle's Place~ Crafts and lessons it says it's geared K through 3rd grade.

Danielle's place~ another one, with crafts and activities.

Impress your kids~ units based on each fruit, very similar to what I am thinking.

Bible kids fun zone~ tons of crafts and ideas.

Christian Preschool Bible crafts~ cute bowl and fruit craft idea.

d-u-c-k-s.com~ very nice looking, older kids lessons. I read the love lesson, which speaks of finding the Greek words for love, and what was meant. Looks neat, need to investigate more.

lapbooks lessons.com~ looks interesting, I am not a huge lapbooker, nor are my A's. it does have some nice resources.

DLTK, cute poem

Confessions of a homeschooler~ fruits of the spirit bean bag toss. You have to go to the bible section, scroll down a little ways to find it.

Homeschool Creations~ used the lapbook above, along with a few of the other resources I listed, and others, for a week long study. They used runts for their math manipulative's!!!

EVEN BETTER Peanut Butter Cookies.....

2010-06-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

Papa Bear and I have been experimenting with the Peanut Butter cookie recipe we love! At the end of the recipe, you can see a few alterations we have made to them.

Give me Liberty or Give me Death.....

2010-06-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

A lady on a HS yahoo group I joined, has actually seen this speech in person! And it IS ALL done by MEMORY!!!!

very inspiring!

free math facts online......

2010-06-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

Carissa from 1+1+1=1 mentioned Multiplication.com, awhile ago. I looked at it, and well was overwhelmed by the site! I put it on the "to do later list" You know the one, the one you always forget about!!! Well she wrote a post about this site, and explained what her family loves about the site.... with that help, I now and very impressed too!!! We will definitely be adding this to our daily studies, for VIRTUE, CHARITY, VALIANT, and PEACEFUL. They are all still working on their math facts and this site, will aid in that a lot!
I will be adding these timed self correction drills to their daily work. Not only is there multiplication, but also addition, subtraction, and division. You can print these, or do them online. To do them online, you push the start to begin. This begins your time and then finish when completed. It will then correct it for you. Tell you the time, amount wrong and right, and the date!!! Love it when technology, helps the teacher out a bit!!!
Carissa also made a wonderful, and very simple spreadsheet for the kids to keep track of scores, and the mom to know what's going on.
There are also GAMES.... games, need I say more!!! I am sure the kids will all enjoy these from time to time, too. I didn't play any of these yet, but once I pre-approve them, they will be added to our online games list.

Year Round School OR School is Life....

2010-06-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned here a time of two that we are year round schoolers. {I thought I already did a whole post on it, but well I don't think I did} I don't really have a schedule like others do, making year round manageable. I do have somewhat of a routine, and that works for us so far.

Sept, Oct, Nov, and typically the first 2 weeks of Dec, we school. Usually somewhere in there we take off a few days, and I try to keep it to a minimum of a week.

Then end of Dec, usually 1-1.5 weeks before Christmas we take off. Also during the entire month of Dec we have started doing Christmas School. Usually I just read a few different CHRISTmas stories, we do different advents together, and we have been the last few years making {most} all of our Christmas Ornaments. However this never goes as well as it's planned in my head, so I have never really spent the time to blog about it. Plus during the month of December, I don't typically have extra blogging time!!

Usually around the 2-3 of January we start up again. January, February, March and April we school. Typically with about a one week break somewhere in there. These breaks are not usually week longs, unless we are busy with a project or vacation. I like to take a day break here and there.

Sometime between April and May we take a few days off. If you can call off, Spring Cleaning?? We spend our usual school hours, cleaning and decluttering.

May and June we school. The public school is usually out sometime around the end of May/beginning of June. So I do {sometimes} give the A's a summer break, usually no longer than a week, though sometimes it's 2.

End of June hits and the kids start complaining of being bored!! GO FIGURE!! They enjoy their free time, but not all day long, all the time! {I believe I might of raised a few MONSTERS!!! Like their CRAZY MOM!!}

Through June, July and August. We school, but we do still have vacations, and camping trips and trips to the zoo. But we do those things all year long! I figure if Papa Bear has to work, so do we. I detest the thought of having 3 months off, and having to get everyone back into the schedule, especially Mama Bear. We usually take some time off during the summer, and again it's usually one week. If we want to do something, then we usually finish our studies first and then do it. Along with taking reading books, and things that can be done in the car along with us.

During the summer, we also usually get up, work in the yard/garden in the mornings. Usually right after breakfast, take care of morning chores and such. Last summer the kids also did their math lessons in the morning. Then they are free until around lunch time. It starts to get really hot here, and the kids are usually inside, so we use that time for our school. The beauty of this schedule is typically the toddlers are sleep at this time, so it's less stressful to get everything done, and have peace and quiet time. Then around 4 or 5 our backyard starts to get shady, and the kids usually run outside to play again. The beauty of summers is we usually are not so busy with scheduled activities, so we can run on our schedule more, than during the school year.

Also years I am pregnant or have something like that.. I try to plan a good break for just before and just after I have the baby. Typically 1-2 weeks before I have a baby, I go into a clean the house mode. Usually it involves some major changing of furniture, scrubbing of walls, sterilizing our home. Then I usually have 1 week off, when Papa Bear, takes over the role of Mama Bear. He usually schools, but he doesn't know the just of how I do it, so it's a bit more laid back. Usually 1 week after the baby I like to get things back rolling smoothly, and start back into our routine. I like to make our school routine, into life and well... life into school.

So there you have it our year round school routine, in a nut shell. The well planned day planner, has some nice attendance type calendars. This year I am going to take attendance, to see just how much school we are doing!

Home School Village~ REFRESH!.....

2010-06-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

The homeschool village's discussion this week, is refreshment. What do you homeschool mom's do to refresh? Since we are back to a year around school schedule, I don't take an extended time off. However we take our breaks, breathers, and refreshers as needed. We take part in many different activities and outings throughout the year, school and summer, to keep us refreshed and recharged. For me personally whenever we take a break, it seems it's harder to keep the peace. We like our routine, and it works nicely to just keep it going.
A few other things I've heard others do that I am considering, pondering, and praying about...
Is to do school 4 days, and use the 5th day as a project, family day. I like this idea, but at the same time, we do many of these types of things everyday!! Another thought is to school 3 or 4 weeks on and take one week off again as a project week. Again not sure about it, will have to see what way the Lord directs our ways. For us, we use our breaks and refresh time, for family vacations, family outings, field trips, or maybe when a new little one will join our family! Those are the times I need a break, from the books! Though everyone always drags along a few books on our breaks!!!

A few good summer reads, on Mama Bear's List....

2010-06-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

Simply Charlotte Mason, Smooth and Easy Days~ Free ebook. There are more on the site, I just haven't read them yet.
The Original Charlotte Mason Series~ I am loving these, and haven't gotten nearly as far as I wish. I could read them constantly!
Dumbing us down by John Taylor Gatto~ this is the first book I started reading out of this bunch, and it was the one that got me in my reading groove. I am planing to read it again, once I am finished with Miss Mason.
Homeschooling with a meek and quiet spirit~ I read this title on another blog, as a recommended summer read, and well I thought the title sounded just like what I needed, right now.... and it was!!!

Cloth diapers, part 3.... {tip and tricks and cleaning}

2010-06-05T14:35:00.000-07:00

So how do you clean your cloth diapers??? That is usually one of the first questions I get when I mention cloth diapers.

I use a wet bag. If the BOY decides to dirty himself, which he does frequently!!! I change his diaper, using my nice homemade wipes. Then I take the wipe {yes I only use 1~ EVER} and diaper into the bathroom. I almost never rinse the wipe, unless it was BAD. I just stick it into the wet bag. Then I dip, and dip and dip some more. I dip until most of the poopies come off. I don't worry too much about getting it all off. I end up washing diapers about every other day or so. I like it that way. I hate the thought of having a bag of poopies sitting around!!!
That's it, truly that's it!!!!

Washing~
I am currently using Rockin Green Diaper Detergent. It works okay I guess, I can't compare it to anything else, since it's the first kind I have actually used. I usually wash the diapers one time on either a quick wash {if there's not too many poopy ones in there, or if I am rushed on time} or the way I prefer is to throw them in the washer in the evening, on a soak cycle. I put a small amount of detergent in, along with some vinegar in the rinse cycle {aka fabric softener cycle} Then after that cycle ends, I wash them again, on my normal settings on the hottest water temperature available. I use the regular amount of detergent, along with the vinegar again. If I notice the diapers are getting a musty kind of smell, I put some baking soda into the washer before I start it. Then if it appears they need an extra rinse, I run them through the rinse one more time, but usually I don't. There you go, simple as that. I almost never dry my diapers, but when it's "needed" I have.

Line drying is the best, it helps to sun out the stains.

If I notice some are getting stains. I put them out to dry, in the sun.... as long as I can, preferable all day. I also spray some watered down lemon juice on them. This helps to bleach them. It really does work, I just did it today on a few diapers that were stained. It was a bit overcast today, but I just left them out all day, and the stains were gone. I just poured some lemon juice into a spray bottle and added alittle less water than juice. Sprayed, and then put the spray bottle in my fridge to use later.

I am planning on making my own homemade soap, in the next few weeks. As soon as my current bottle is gone. I will let you know how it works on my cloth diapers.

Spelling with Virtue.

2010-06-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

Let's just say Spelling has never been one of Virtue's favorite subjects, nor has it been something she has ever caught on to. Noble and Charity have been using Spelling Workout, which is a recommendation in The Well Trained Mind. I used TWTM in the beginning with Noble, and just stuck to what worked for him... as long as I could. Noble and Virtue learn very differently, it's black and white, complete opposites. The last few years I have been simply taking words from Virtues writings, that she spells incorrectly, and using that list to make her spelling lists. This works, but it never felt like I was "teaching" her anything about spelling. I want it to be a bit more organized, but more so importantly teaching her the rules.

I have been looking at the program All about Spelling. I am hoping to be able to get a good look at the program at our homeschool convention and curriculum sale in June. It is pricey, and I don't want to purchase it if it doesn't work any better than what I can find elsewhere or free.

Hence I am always on the lookout for free spelling programs that seem to fit Virtue. I just found this site. I will be trying it, I like the structure, she will like the songs... we'll see!

Cloth Diapers, part two (types of diapers, my picks}

2010-06-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

Which cloth diapers... the pros and cons to the diapers I have and use, my opinion only!!!

Thirsties Duo Diapers... are one of my top two diapers!! I haven't had any problems with these, or any complaints. I only have 4 of these, but they are one of the type I always grab for. I like the fit, I like the way the leg gussets wrap around BOYs chunky legs!! I really like the pocket diapers, far more than the AIO's (All in One's) I will explain this later. They are not hard to work with at all. After I wash, and {mostly} hang dry, I grab everything and assemble and stack them. Then they are ready to go. I plan on purchasing these in the size one for the new baby, but I still have time.
I also received some thirsties wipes, with the thirsties diapers I purchased. I figured there was no difference in them vs a regular washcloth. As far as cleaning power, and the way they clean, there isn't a difference. There is a huge difference in the way the thirsties wipes line dry. My washclothes come off the line all crunchy and stiff, these do not. However for the simple fact that it doesn't matter, because I get them wet to use them anyways... I am fine. Though if I ever find a great deal on any of these, I will definitely pick up some more.

EBAY stores, online!
I have purchased new cloth diapers from these stores on ebay. We have enjoyed these. I do double up the liners with some extra thirsties liners I have. I only do this, as a precaution. I just simply did it from the start. These are cute, and cheap! That being said, I have only used these for roughly 1 month. So I can not say how well they will hold up. However I haven't paid more than $5 for each one, so I am okay if they don't hold up quite as well!!!
07k-entrepot
iwill2sellmore

BumGenius Organic AIO one size~ this is by far my least favorite out of the three I own. I thought I would like the all in one idea, but I don't it doesn't seem to wash as well. The nitty gritty of cloth diapering {aka POOP} sometimes get in between the two liners. The liners also sometimes hang dry a little crunchier than I like, prefer. They also take by far longer to dry. I don't think it's anything against the BumGenius brand. It seems to be a nice brand, I hear tons of positive feedback about BumGenius. I think I personally don't like the AIO type diapers. I prefer the pocket cloth diapers. Again this is only my opinion. It seems there are plenty of people out there who love AIO's.... that's why I purchased them. I just want my opinion that AIO's are not my favorite out there, too. I do plan to purchase some BumGenius pockets to try out eventually.

So there you go, the types of cloth diapers I prefer. Again this is only my opinion, and trust me I haven't been in the cloth diaper world long enough to say I am a veteran, or know all about it!!!

Next for my cloth diapering posts.... how I clean them, and tips and tricks I've learned/read along the way!

Homeschool Village Blog Fair!

2010-06-03T19:30:00.000-07:00

SHARE YOUR HOMESCHOOL PLANS FOR JUNE!!!

Well let's see, for us we will be making some drastic changes. I had mentioned we were going to do more textbook learning... well the A's have cast their votes, and they all HATE their history textbooks. We we will be leaving those behind. I am actually quite happy. Next Friday is our local homeschool convention and curriculum fair... so I am making a list and checking it twice! {Wait is it Christmas?? Conventions get HS Mama's feeling that way!!}

The other major change, will be our routine. We live in a hot climate, so we move to a summer routine. We get up, do our family bible readings, personal bible readings, prep for the day, morning chores, breakfast and breakfast duties, Math lessons for the day, and some family history reading, along with working with the K and Pre-K kids a bit. Then the A's are free to roam and play until lunch. After lunch, during the HEAT OF THE DAY, we come in and take care of our Independent Studies {IS} along with any other family studies we have. So our biggest change to our school, is simply the time!!! I am a firm believer in year round schooling. It seems any time we have a long break, it's hard for all of us, including Mama Bear to get back into gear.

NOW for 3 homeschool blogs I love!

Hmmm.... drum roll please!!

{I will be trying to choose 3 that haven't been mentioned, or participated yet!!}

Tiffany at Rockin C

Confessions of a Homeschooler

Chocolate on my Cranium

Delightful Learning

Starting at the end.....

2010-06-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

The other day, I decided to take care of one of my pet peeves about our school time....

"WHERE'S MY PENCIL??? YOU TOOK MY PENCIL!!! MOM A? TOOK MY PENCIL!!!!!

I actually, sadly hear that often. I don't know who's pencil was the red one with white flowers Grandma gave them for Valentine's day. So I thought to myself, my color-coded oh so crazy organized self.... why not color code the pencils? BRILLIANT!!!!

I went to the local dollar store, and bought 3 packs of mechanical pencils, with 5 multi colors in them. They also had a pack with 5 pens of the same, or close to same colors. As I was handing them out, Noble asked me... Mom why are you doing this at the end of the year? {Maybe I forgot to mention we were getting back to our year round schedule this year, maybe he simply forgot... or purposefully forgot!!! Not sure} I simply said, sometimes changes need to happen, and it doesn't matter when or how, but it needs to be done.

So that is where the title is headed, starting at the end. I honestly feel we are doing that, this year.

And you know what, it's alright! Change needs to happen, when change needs to happen. Whatever the change is, if it will fix a problem then it must be fixed and corrected.

Blueberry Muffins, turned into a cake.....

2010-06-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted, or was craving blueberry muffins today. They just sounded great! I looked up a recipe for blueberry muffins and started making them. Well then it occurred to me, that I don't have muffin tins anymore. They were aluminum, so I put them in the learning room to use with the younger A's....hmmm we we can make it a blueberry muffin cake, and we did. And it was GREAT!!

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour {I just used regular whole wheat flour, and it was yummy}
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 bananas, mashed or fresh blueberries {I missed the "or" in the original recipe and used both, it turned out wonderful}
3/4 cup organic cane sugar and golden syrup {or any natural sweeteners you prefer}
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/3 cup butter or coconut oil, melted – or replace with half applesauce, as desired {or you can do it like I did with coconut cream.}

Topping, optional:

2 Tbsp whole wheat flour
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter {again I used coconut cream}
1/4 cup sweetener, optional {I used cane sugar and golden syrup}

I doubled this to make 1 9X11 glass cake pan. I also forgot to lightly grease, and it came out wonderfully.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 12 muffin cups.

In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling 3/4 full (Definitely fill all 12, otherwise they will overflow).
Optional: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup sweeteners, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins. I normally just sprinkle with cinnamon and a little sweetener.

Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.
Blueberry Variation: Replace bananas with 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries and 3/4 cup applesauce. Yum!

For my cake, I ended up cooking it for around 25-30 minutes, but the middle was a little undercooked, I should have went a bit longer.
Enjoy I know we did!

Meet the Houseful....

2010-06-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

Papa Bear and Mama Bear

NOBLE
13 yr old boy {A1}

VIRTUE
11 yr old girl {A2}

CHARITY
10 yr old girl {A3}

VALIANT
8 yr old boy {A4}

PEACEFUL
5 yr old girl {A5}

PRECIOUS
3 yr old girl {A6}

BOY
1.5 yr old boy {A7}

Newest little A to be born in September!

Oh and yes they do all begin with the letter "A"

Happy Birthday BOB!!!

2010-05-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was in the copy shop in our small town, getting our chore charts laminated. I am seriously into laminating right now, EVERYTHING!!! NOBLE actually told me he hates lamination!! I asked him why, and he said you have to be careful to not rub it off.... I said it's a toss up, laminate and learn to be careful, or keep using paper, and make your mom feel like she is killing every tree on the earth!! Not really, but we go through a ton of paper, or can around here. I will try to remember to post about the laminate charts I have made... later, right now it's Bob's day!!

I walked into the small copy shop, it's run by a cute little local couple. I bet they have lived here their entire lives, they are truly cute, and super nice. I love living in a small town, where everyone knows everyone. Even though we are not super involved, just visiting the copy shop, or the grocery store... people ask you questions, talk to you about your kids, and it's like everyone knows everyone.
As I entered the copy shop, I noticed that there were three other customers in the copy area, getting copies made, and such. I was standing there, reading some nice patriotic and religious quotes they have on a bookshelf. The owner, the wife walked over and said, we are singing Happy Birthday to Bob! I said okay... somewhat uncertain of what was going on. She explained it was Bob's 80th birthday, he lives alone and doesn't have any family close by anymore. The husband gathered the other two customers, while the wife went to get Bob, who was talking with another employee there. As they walked in we all started singing Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday dear B-O-B... Happy Birthday to you!!!
I wish I had my camera with me.... it was priceless, the look on Bob's face. I saw so many emotions, happiness, cheer, a little embarrassment.... but mostly joy. It was more the fact that he knew he was loved, he was cared for. It was priceless.....

and that is why I love living my life in a small town.

The Well Planned Day, Planners

2010-05-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading my blog for very long, you have probably noticed, I am a planner! I came across the planner last year, and purchased it. I was HIGHLY impressed with it. Not only do I love the format, layout of the planner pages themselves, but I love the graphics and special added features. It's cute, and that makes me want to look at it and use it... honestly!!!

I love reading the articles included in it. I also signed up to get a free THE HOME EDUCATING FAMILY MAGAZINE. I couldn't put it down, and I still haven't finished reading and re-reading to my hearts content.

I have also started using this planner as my daily planner. I use the top boxes in the colums for our family studies. Things I need to plan, and keep track of. I also use it for our opening time, and for notes about things I need to finish for the A's school work. Then I use the bottom boxes for a to-do list for each day. I love having my day planner right there with my homeschool planner, it helps me remember what we are doing, where we are going, and keeping al my ducks in line, so to speak. Along with that it has a dinner menu planner on the side of each weeks schedule. I really only plan our dinner schedule, so I love that. Breakfast is typically a hot cereal, such as oatmeal. Lunch is leftovers, beans {such as nachos, burritos, or such}, or most typically it's sandwiches and the typical sides we have around.
This planner has Mommy notes, schedules pages, record keeping sheets... the works.
Along with that there are places to plan and create a year's school schedule. I use this "attendance" area to keep track of the days, we are doing school. I don't have to keep attendance, grades or records where I live, yes it is a blessing. I simply like to keep some simple records, for my minds sake, and well... just in case. Along with that, I will be starting to put together a portfolio for Noble. He is getting to a higher level of education, and I feel it is probably a smart thing to do.

A healthy alternative to Chocolate Milk..

2010-05-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

The Nourishing Gourmet, posted a recipe for a Chocolate Milk "Frappe" This is an excellent alternative to Chocolate Milk. We had this for lunch today, and all the A's gave it 5 stars!!!
Enjoy!

cloth diapers, part 1

2010-05-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

About 1 month ago, I put BOY in cloth diapers. I only wish I would have done this 1 and a half years ago.... or actually 13 years ago!!! All my boys, and a few of my girls have had super sensitive skin. {I have only had 3 of my girls not be super sensitive} However I believe BOY has been one of our most sensitive. I could not use Pampers, or Luvs with him, he always ended up with a rash, within a few days of using either of those brands. It got to the point that it took me and the 3 oldest A's to hold him down to change his diapers. It was so hard, not to mention he is so strong. I couldn't do it anymore. I started reading blogs about cloth diapers, looking into it... and then decided to make the switch. I haven't regretted it, not once. Even when I am cleaning them in the toilet, as a pregnant Mama! Truly it's not that bad. I have lived and dealt with a lot worst, through my Mama years.

So here's what I did to begin our cloth diaper journey, and a few tips and tricks I have learned along the way.

I read blogs, and posts like crazy.... here are a few of them, I am sorry there's no way I can remember all the posts I read.
Mama to 3 blessings~ this links to a new post, but she has plenty of information on her site.
Chocolate on my Cranium
Rockin C~ she's new to cloth too, and did tons of research.
My charming kids, MckMama.
After I read these, and many many more posts, blogs, ideas, how to etc. about cloth diapers.

I went on a shopping spree, so to speak!! I purchased my first diapers on ebay. They are all new, but I was able to get large amounts for a great price. I purchased a small set of Thirsty's Duo Pockets One size. I also purchased 12 of the organic bum genius AIO One size. Then I thought I would try out this brand, sold on ebay. I have actually been pleasantly pleased with this brand.UPDATED~ I forgot to mention I also have extra absorbency pads, liners. I use the one that these diapers come with, along with one of my extra ones. So I am doubling their pads, just as the thirsty duo's are. I have purchased 2 more. They do not hold quite as much, okay the only leaky diaper I have dealt with was one of these, but let me say that was one FULL diaper. I still put diapers on PRECIOUS during naps and at night time. She still doesn't always wake up dry, and I'd rather put a diaper on her, then deal with the night time accidents. Precious loves the cow diaper!! She thinks it's great!!! I put it on Boy one time before naps, and she was not very happy that she didn't get it!! I like the more plush, velor type cloth on these. I haven't used her PUL type material.

I also went to the cloth diaper superstore. I purchased one large wet bag and one medium size {for when we are away from home} I love these bags. You just throw them in with the diapers and it's done!! I am thinking of buying one more, probably medium size to use when the diapers are washing, didn't think about that! I love the little swatch of material, to put essential oils on, I am a lavender fan, so I put lavender on them. I don't think that is necessary, just something I like to do.

For wipes, I just went to a local store, and purchase 10 washcloths for $3. These are just your typical bathroom wash clothes. They are 100% cotton. I would like to get some organic, but haven't found a great deal on them yet. I simply run them under hot water, and squeeze out most of the water, then wad them up in a ball and stick them in two old disposable wipe cases I had. Simple as that. If BOY needs some oils for rashes, or such. I just add it to his bum, directly. No, not directly... but with a transfer oil. I use coconut oil, and tea tree {aka Melaluca oil} or I use a colloidal silver ointment I have. Just depends. But honestly I haven't used either one, except one time since we have used cloth!!! HOORAY!!!!

Well since this post is already super long, and it has already taken me past my typical scheduled blog time, I will have to give the rest of the nitty gritty, dirty details of cloth diapers....later!

Fort Buenaventura

2010-05-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

For our May Field Trip we went to Fort Buenaventura....
a lovely park in Ogden. Okay I have lived here, most of all my life, and I don't think I've ever been here! I hope to return soon, with Papa Bear and enjoy it again... it's beautiful there.

We had a Wilderness Survival Man there, who discussed many survival skills, and things that Mountain Men would do to life. He also is a beaver trapper, today. Let's just say Noble, was in heaven. Survival is his newest "thing". He even had to go up and talk to him after the presentation!

Here is the replica of the original fort. Boy found a new friend!

and of course, we had to learn about hatchet throwing.....

Can you believe I got three of my own children throwing at the same time!

This next picture is of Valiant, he was SO into it. He's a knife throwing, gun toting, little man.

WAIT!!!!! How did that get in here????

Okay it's Mama Bear!

My plan was to hit the log, and bring fear to my A's.....

sorry didn't happen!!!!

but it was fun trying. I needed the taller log, I had one sitting on the ground. I kept throwing too high... I know excuses, excuses!!!

Homemade Refried Beans

2010-05-05T17:19:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like homemade refried beans...
they are yummy, easy, and nutritious. {When homemade that is!!}

I make mine in my crockpot. I fill it about half full of pinto beans, and then fill the rest with water. I don't know the exact measurements, we buy our pintos in bulk... so I just dump it in. somehow over my years, and years of cooking and baking, I have lost all my cooking technique learned in home EC. I cook by looking and measure in my way! Oh well. I did look up a recipe for refried beans and it said 1 pound of beans to 5 cups of water.

Next I put the beans on high for about 1 hour. I get it good and hot and bubbly, then I turn it down to low and let is simmer. Usually I let them simmer a good 12 hours, either all day or all night. Make sure the first part of the cooking time you are close and able to watch the water level. After awhile you don't need to add too much more water. After they are cooked and soft, I turn it down to keep warm, until we are ready to eat.

Then I put the beans and a small amount of the water in my Bosch mixer and beat it with the beater attachments. I add some salt, again to preference. Then I add the secret ingredient.... SPIKE. If you have never had Spike, you need to try it. It's expensive, but wonderful.

We started making these a little before I had Boy. We haven't used canned beans since... you can't these are wonderful.

I almost feel silly putting this recipe on my blog, since they are so easy. The thing is they are so cheap and easy to make. They taste atleast 10 times better than the canned.

I usually make a large crockpot full about once a week, and we use them throughout the week.
We like to make nachos, burritos, tostados, enchiladas, the works. We love them with fresh salsa and homemade guacamole. Sometimes Virtue will warm them up and melt some cheese on top and eat them that way, without chips or anything.

enjoy I know we do.

from our home library.... sidebar

2010-05-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

From our home library, the new list on my sidebar... let me give some details.
Morning reading with the little A's. Is just that, anyone who chooses can listen along. These are typically picture books. I am also going to start reading aloud from the tales of Winnie the Pooh, little bits at a time. As we read and find a "gem" I will share.

Afternoon read aloud, is done at lunch time. Depending on how hungry I am depicts when during lunch. Sometimes I read then eat, sometimes I eat then read. We take turns picking a book for this time. We started with the our oldest Noble, and go right down to Precious. Boy doesn't get a turn yet, but he will! I use to take a turn, but now we have added the evening time.

Evenings, this is Papa or Mama Bears choice. Along with this we have our family scripture, hymn and evening prayers.

TODAY SHOW... looking for homeschoolers!!

2010-05-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

Do you have experience with home schooling?
If you or your children were home-schooled, we want to know your story!
Do you home school your kids? Were you home-schooled as a child? Tell us why you or your family chose that option and how it has worked out. Share your stories and experiences and we may use them in a future story for TODAYshow.com.
Tell us your home schooling story Read more here

Why we stay far away from Plastics, as far as we can...

2010-04-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

The dangers of Bisphenol A {BPA}
Plastic bottle chemical harmful

This is scary stuff people! I am new to all the other things BPA is in, as for now we don't use any non-BPA free plastics, and I am learning.... and learning. It's a scary world we life in.

The new navigation bar...

2010-04-30T16:27:00.000-07:00

Do you love my new navigation bar??? I sure do! Do you wish you could have one too??? Visit Confessions of a homeschooler, and she has a wonderful post all about how to do it {in blogger}. It couldn't be any easy, simply copy and paste and some simple personalization.... and you are done! Here's a direct link to the post.
One day I will finish it by adding the drop down's, but for now I am happy with what I have. Well almost happy, I want it to be centered, and haven't figured it out yet. Give me time, I will mess with it and mess with it, until I figure it out!!
Unless any of you happen to have some great tips for doing it... hint, hint?????

How we use Textbooks~ SCIENCE...

2010-04-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

Since my decision to go to more of a textbook curriculum, I haven't said much more about it. How is it going?? Well I LOVE it!! I am not having to plan, and organize and come up with ideas and think, and be creative, and be on top of everything... all the time. It has really lifted a large load off my shoulders. I spend most of the morning teaching Peaceful phonics. I also spend a lot of time helping Valiant with his work, and mostly his reading. He has a speech impediment, along with being all boy, he has struggled with his reading. He is doing a ton better, but I work a lot on his speech. I also read aloud his Science and Readings with him, and Peaceful usually sits in and listens too. That along with keeping the two younger children busy, occupied, and somewhat quiet. I was having a hard time keeping up with my teacher prep time, and {honestly} my peaceful meek teaching spirit! It was getting very overwhelming.

So I decided to give you a run down of how I do it. How I organize and teach with our textbook system. Please remember this is only how I do it, others might have better ways, ways that suit you and your family much better than mine. I also am very new to this approach, and might change things up from time to time, too.

Today I will start with Science.
We are using Apologia and Abeka for science.

Noble is {still} using the Apologia General Science. He has enjoyed this book greatly. I have him using the schedule forms available on Donna Young's Site. We have the first edition, and are using the schedule 2 forms. In the front of his textbook I wrote out what I expect done with each Module, along with how I will grade it. I don't give him a letter grade, yet. However we did do that for a short period last year. We had a nephew living with us, and the kids wanted grades like he got at public school. Noble has mentioned the desire for this, we will have to see. He has a spiral notebook that he writes all his experiments, vocabulary, on your own questions, figures {that can be copied} and his study guide questions in. Typically the Modules last for 2 weeks. I have him complete all the textbook work, then turn in his Module work. Then he typically has 2 days to study for his test and take it.

Virtue and Charity are both using Apologia Elementary Series. I simply chose these, since I already owned them! I did have to purchase one of the notebooks that are an option for this series. I typically give them 2 weeks to complete one lesson along with the notebook pages that accompany that lesson. Currently they are doing all experiments, but that is getting overwhelming {and costly} so I am considering on the next lesson having them look at the experiments when they begin a lesson, and choosing one. Some of them we have done, or they already understand without doing an experiment. I will see how well that works. As for the notebooks, I expect good handwriting, and completion. These two girls are not as big on "grades" so I don't do them at all with them. When I start it with Noble, that might change? I did just notice these Elementary Series Planners, on Donna Young. I am planning on looking them over shortly.

Experiments for all three of the above science students are done as a family. It's always exciting to see an experiment. Along with that, the student preforming the experiment, has to explain the experiment. They also have plenty of helpers who they have to incorporate into the experiment. So they not only learn the lesson from the experiment, but are learning teaching, public speaking, and cooperation, along with some patience and I am sure there are a few other things!

Science with Valiant, Peaceful and sometimes Precious and Boy. We are using the Abeka Science program. I am just reading through and discussing the chapter with them.

Along with these textbooks, the children also have a science reading time. It is scheduled for 15 minutes, 2 times a week. I have been currently letting them choose their own reading books. I might change that so I am choosing some of their books.. something I am still considering?

This also frees up more time for me to teach them what I want, and how/when I want. I am starting to use some of the outdoor hour. I love this website. We started using it last fall, but I got overwhelmed trying to teach their science lesson, along with nature study. I was feeling pressure to get it all done, and I wasn't getting any of it done!

That's it, really it is that simple!

A's... A's EVERYWHERE there are A's!

2010-04-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well I don't know much about you, but all the A's on my blog were BUGGING me!!!
Notice on the Left Sidebar all their new names!!
I tried to come up with "new names" that showed their personality, and well....Who THEY are.
{BOY is simply, boy because I am not sure what to call him just yet. I will probably change that one, eventually}

SAT Practice, it's never to early, or is it?

2010-04-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

I believe it could be too early, if it's done in the wrong way. If you make it a stress and you must pass the test, when the child is too young... that's the wrong approach. However I feel I have found a great approach. Of course when to start this with your child, it should be handled individually to each child.
There is a free service from the SAT collegeboard. I signed A1 up for the daily questions, and I signed up to get them too. Each day he will read them, and try to do them himself. Then he will let me know if he got it right, and on what try.
While A1 just turned 13, he loves knowledge, he loves a challenge and he loves facts. I figured this would be something he would love, and well I was right!! I made it no stress, nothing to worry about. I told him if you don't know, simply make your best guess, then use the help section to get help, and always read the sections that explain the answers. This will not only help him prepare for the SAT, and test taking, but it will also help us see where we have slacked, or where we need to put some extra effort. It's a win win situation, considering he loves it!
I figure later on we will purchase a book, and do some of the practice test, but for now we are just working on test taking skills, and seeing what we need to do to help him prepare.

**UPDATE**

I also found an ACT question of the day program. This one does not get sent to your inbox, you have to visit the site daily. However this is a large difference in these test, and it all depends on what school you want to attend. That being said, and the fact A1 loves facts, questions and quizzes, he will be doing these ones daily too. If it becomes too much and I see, or he complains I will change it to ACT one day SAT one day.

new and IMPROVED Calendar Time!

2010-04-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share our "calendar wall", some of you might have seen our homemade, by me calendar {as seen below} Yep it's still around, can you believe it, somethings do make it in a houseful!!! Though we have definitely taken it a bit further..... so I thought I'd share with all of you....

At the beginning of the school year, I made some simple calendars for most of the A's {I do wish I would have made one for A6, I should have known better, she must do everything everyone else does}
I used the printables from this site. There are a few different ideas there. I printed my older 4 A's blank calendars. They fill in the date. The older A's usually fill in weeks at a time, and don't always fill in the day, every day. We also, usually on Monday, discuss our week. Maybe if we have a field trip, or an upcoming birthday or holiday. A science fair, or upcoming drawing contest we are participating in coming up. I try to mention these things, along with our weekly activities, piano, gymnastics classes, ballet classes, scouts... etc. Then we have a weather graph just behind our calendar. We {now} quickly run down the list, and fill in the chart. The kids call it the weather race, and see who will win! Weather that is!! Sometimes it's snow, sometimes it's rain... wind or sun, cloudy or foggy.... it's always fun!!

This next part won't make as much sense, until you visit the link at the end of this paragraph. I forgot to get a picture of this, and well I am too lazy to go and do it!!! Especially when it's already available somewhere else on the web!!
Then A5 and A6 count our days of school. First we write the number on a number graph, then we write it in tally marks, then we add our cards and and count with stickers and the number houses. This has helped A5 immensely, he always struggled with numbers belonging in houses. So how this works is I took recipe cards. Cut them in half {and then ended up trimming off a small bit to get them to fit nicely} I used a baseball card holder sheet, and turned it sideways. Now you have 3 rows and 3 columns running horizontally. Then I put on the top {the words} ones, tens and hundreds. Each day we place a number in the number slot on the bottom. So on day 1 we put in 1 {the number}, and put one sticker above it on a card. Then on day 2 we take out the number 1 and put in the number 2 and add another sticker to the same card. Day 3 we take out the 2 and put in the three adding another sticker. We repeat this process until day 10. When you reach day 10 you remove the number 9 and put a 1 in the tens house and a 0 in the ones house. Then you add your tenth sticker to the card, and then the stickers are put in the tens house, and a new empty card is placed in the ones house. Meaning the number 10 is 1 card of 10 stickers and 1 card of 0 stickers. Then on you go!!! We have tons and tons of stickers sitting around here. I just pull out a sheet and use it until it's gone and then pull out another. I wrote this post first and finally took a few pictures to add to it. I forgot to snap one of this, so this is the link, which showed me how to do it... she explains it nicely, and has a photo to "see" what it is I am trying to say here!
While we are doing our number house counting, the older 3 A's practice their tally marks {by their request} and Roman Numerals {by my request} I might have them add writing their numerals next month, since that is one they could use a review of. A1 checks A2 and A3's work. He knows his Roman Numerals well, and they get mixed up from time to time. Then this month, A1 has also started graphing the morning temperatures, {his idea}.

I have on our calendar wall area some cute yesterday... today.... and tomorrow... signs. I purchased these at a local dollar store. I put Velcro on the signs and on the backs of the days. So each day I can simply pull off the days and move them. They have pre-made slots, but they never lined up, or where easily knocked off. I guess I shouldn't complain, I mean I only spent a dollar for a whole calendar set!!

Along the top of the wall I have an older {smaller} line of the months in order. We usually sing different calendar type songs.. you know days of the weeks, months of the years, seasons, etc. They are all over the Internet, I just find some and print them off, use the ones we like and move on.

I LOVE this picture of Jesus teaching and it's been in all our school rooms/learning rooms/ learning areas. {We have schooled all over the house, at one time or another!!}

I also picked up the saying and posted it on this same wall...

JOY find JOY in your life, make serving your family a priority!!! Put JESUS first, OTHERS second, and YOURSELF last. We use to say it daily. Now we say it about once a week, or so.

This is also where we have our Composer Study Picture and Artist Study Picture posted. {I can honestly say, I haven't been the best at remembering to do these each month. However it is something I truly want to do, so I keep them there, and am trying to work them into our routine better}

The latest thing I have added to our calendar area, I put push pins in the calendar. Every month we do a pattern using these link 'n' learn links. I always start with my youngest A's to try to figure out the pattern. We have only done this for one month. Though the older A's have asked to be in charge of setting up the patterns, and I will be allowing them to do it, as long as they can do it right!!!

I also picked up at the local dollar store some calendar pieces. They had 3 different sets of cute calendar months, and numbers. At the beginning of each month, I choose an A to pick our month topper.

Each morning after our calendar time, I run one time through it with them, Today is Wednesday March 3, 2010. Literally this takes no time at all, and the A's always remind me when I forget to do it!!! It has become one part of our school day, we will have to continue... probably forever!!! The nice part to calendar time, is to start it off simply. Then add different elements, different ideas, different twists to it. Making it more educational, more fun and so you are using that time on all levels. You can easily add in geography, by doing map work, or grammar, by discussing different terms, add history, by adding in historical dates and historical facts {yeah I keep saying I am going to do that one, but never remember to get my dates prepared} You can add things like temperature, counting things like Roman Numerals and Tally Marks like we do... you could do a different language each month and learn the numbers in Spanish, French, Hebrew, sign language... whatever.
WOW I have just come up with some great ideas, maybe I'll have to start implementing one more thing!

On the wall across from our "calendar wall" is our white board, this is where I write our weekly songs, and our weeks memory verse. Also the small index cards on the white board {if you can find them among that mess!!} are our other memory work we are currently doing. The cork board is where I stick all the stuff I need to remember!!! Life saver!!! I LOVE it!!!!

Just remember start SLOW.... we started our calendar time last year, with a simple calendar... placing the newest date on the calendar.

Here's a picture of the entire "calendar wall" Sorry it's sideways, I got mad and gave up.... it wasn't cooperating!!! If you can tell this wall is tiny, it's a small section between two windows, making a perfect spot for our "calendar wall"

I can say though, I just read this post about her circle time, and this post which inspired me to share my ideas.... I am sure our "calendar wall" will be even better soon!! I love sharing ideas!
As a side note, I looked up the site, Mrs. Meacham's Classroom, to link to for this post. That is where I first saw the idea of the calendar binders.... well I had no idea she had so many great ideas. You might enjoy a stroll around her site!

Whole Wheat bread, Yummy Goodness!

2010-04-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

I have been making homemade bread for my family, on and off {mostly on} for about 10 years or so. WOW I can't believe it's been that long!
I found this recipe, sometime in the beginning of my bread making life!! This is one tried and true, gotta love it recipe! We use it for Cinnamon rolls, regular rolls and breadsticks too. We use to use it for our pizza until I found this recipe.

4 Cups very warm water

3/4 cup oil {though out of having not enough oil, I have used less. We have used olive oil, grapeseed oil, and coconut oil in this recipe}

3/4 cup raw unfiltered honey {or just honey, but raw is so much better for you}

3 T yeast

2T sea salt

some flax, I have been adding this lately and I probably add around 4 Tablespoons or so. I just dump it in.

a HEAPING 1/3 cup vital wheat gluten (I use a large HEAPING, this helps to make the dough more elastic and chewy}

about 7-8 cups of flour.

We have used, all whole wheat, or combined our whole wheat with oatmeal or oat flour {to make oat flour, pour some oatmeal in the blender} spelt {love it, but the budget doesn't!}
I have a Bosch universal mixer, and have loved it almost the entire time I have been making bread. This recipe makes around 4 loaves, so you need a large mixer.

Put the water, oil, honey, yeast in the bowl and let sit, to bubble. Then add salt, flax, yeast and gluten. Mix slightly. Last add flour. I usually add about 5-6 cups and let it mix. Then I add more as needed. You are looking for your dough to not stick to the sides of your mixer, and start to gather together. Then I simply grab some dough and see how sticky it is. If it's super sticky, can't hardly get it off my fingers, sticky... I add more flour. You want it elastic, not sticky. Hope that makes sense! Mix for a good 7-10 minutes.
Place in greased pans, let sit out for about 30 minutes to rise. I like mine to rise just barely above the sides of the pan. It will rise more as it cooks. If you are in a hurry, you can either turn your oven on and place the pans on top of the stove the heat under will help to rise, while the oven warms. OR you can turn your oven on for a few seconds just long enough to warm the oven, turn off. Then place the pans in the oven to rise inside. Once they get to the tops of the sides of your pans, turn your oven back on to cook. Usually my bread rises quick enough, I just set it on the cupboard.

Cook on 350 for about 30-35 minutes.
We like to take one loaf out while it is still slightly doughy in the middle {slightly undercooked} We usually eat that loaf the moment it's made, and slightly doughy bread is wonderful right out of the oven. However it's not so tasty the next day, in my opinion.

We also butter the tops, usually. It's also a great treat to make some homemade butter, and use part to make honey butter for the warm bread.

Now this all being said, I came across another bread recipe, that makes 6-8 loaves at a time.... so I will be trying my hand at that one, next time to see how it compares. We currently make bread about twice a week, with the above recipe.

Enjoy!!! I know we do!!!

the new and improved Mommy answering machine....

2010-04-24T09:00:00.001-07:00

I think I would love this mostly during our school time, all the

Mommy, can you help me's??

Mommy, how do you spell _____'s??

Mommy, what does this mean??

oh and then my personal favorite...

MOMMY, HELP... A7 is pulling my hair!!!!!

{or that could be changed to hitting me, pushing me, throwing something at me, or won't get off me!!!! Seriously, ALL boy there!!}
my new voicemail shall say....

Hello! I am sorry, I can't come to your assistance right now. I do care, and would love to help. Please take a number and WAIT!!!! Love your Mommy!

schedules, schedules... who wants to talk schedules??

2010-04-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

It seems to me schedules are being talked about all over the homeschool world. On all the blogs, and yahoo groups, amongst friends and support groups. I was going to join in with everyone and attempt to write about our schedule, but then it occurred to me, honestly I would just be repeating so much of what others are saying. You see we run on a somewhat MOTH schedule. Most homeschoolers know what a MOTH Schedule is, it's very popular!! If not, let me know I can link you to a few great sites with MOTH schedules, or better yet... go to the Managers Of Their Homes website!

SO to not bore everyone with yet another MOTH Schedule, I thought I'd try to discuss a few of my thoughts on schedules.

I think that having a schedule, whether it be a strict time schedule or a laid back routine, a schedule is needed for everyone in any lifestyle. We have more of a schedule/routine! If you would like more details, please leave a comment and I can write about our schedule.

I think the first part of setting up a schedule, is to write down

A~ what you are currently doing
and
B~ what your dream day would go like, or what you really want to fit into the day.

I would suggest doing this on two separate pieces of paper. Then take the "A" schedule and compare it to the "B" schedule.

I know many people will say well we don't really have a schedule, but I am sure you do have some type of "natural" schedule... and that is what we are after. Even if it's not a strict time slotted schedule, you probably get up each morning and eat breakfast, then maybe after breakfast you start getting dressed and doing baths and teeth brushing. Maybe no one can go outside to play until their rooms are cleaned and okayed by mom. Whatever it is... write it down. If you don't know, then tomorrow walk around with a notebook or clipboard with a pencil and jot down what you do/did all day long. Then think, is this what we always do? If your not sure, walk around with the clipboard for 2, 3, 4 days a week if needed. Now one thing that you might try to do while writing down your "natural" schedule, is you might try to make it better than what it naturally is.... you might try to stick in some of those things that you want to do. Well, DON'T. It is very important that you figure out what you are already doing before you start trying to change it or add to it.

After you compare the two schedules, figure out what is the most important thing for you to start doing, each and everyday. For me, it might be getting dressed and combing my hair!!! {Hee, Hee, no I do that everyday, though I am sure others wonder some days!!} I would only pick maybe 2-4 items, and start doing them. Make sure that they are added to your schedule, each and every day for around 2 weeks. Then once you feel those things are stuck in stone in your daily routine, and schedule, add a few more. I personally feel this is a much better approach to changing your schedule, than to just say, we are changing our life and jumping in head first without a second thought. Taking things a few at a time, and making them routine, will be a lot easier, than trying to blend everything up and mix it all up in one lump sum... or at least that's what I think!

You know you are raising a wild and crazy boy.....

2010-04-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

......when all his guns look like this!

all taped together!

I am on the lookout for some new toy guns, that might last. I believe A4 has a birthday coming up.... and well I think he might be in need of a new gun!!!

what do you do when you are stuck inside with all the April Showers??

2010-04-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

You lounge on the couch, in jammies and blankies and read The Real George Washington aloud. With yummy hot cocoa!! {photo is from tropical traditions site!} We also watched the George Washington Hero's DVD, and part of the a More Perfect Union.

So it might have just been one chapter in the book! However very inspiring! Not only that but we did stop between sections to discuss and talk about it!

That is what I love about homeschooling... if it's one of those days, where you have been stuck inside for two days, it's cold and you don't want to start moving.... well there are other ways to enjoy learning, and ditching the schedule for the day!

April Showers can be gloomy and dim... but only if you make them. We thanked God for all the moisture, we have truly needed it. I was actually debating turning on a sprinkler the other day, as I noticed the grass was looking a bit yellow. I just couldn't bring myself to do it! Thank God I didn't have to, he did it for me.

Spiders, and Snakes and Lizards.... OH MY!!!

2010-04-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

One of our homeschool friends set up a field trip with the group, scales and tails of Utah.
{Thanks Tammy, you're awesome!!} The group tours schools, fairs, parties and such bringing all their little friends with them! This is an expensive tour, but when you have around 100 homeschoolers all sharing the cost, it's very reasonable, and the information and hands on learning, is beyond the cost. We had an awesome time, I wish I would have recorded it, or at least taken notes. There was so much information given there. Oh and I might add, a ton of drama, from the presenter! He did a great job!!!

Making homemade butter, it is this easy!

2010-04-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

Really it is that simple. It does take some time, but it's so worth it!! Homemade butter is like homemade bread, once you start making it, you can't stop!!!

I have done this with both methods, these are the videos I used to learn how to make butter. I use my strainer with cheesecloth inside, then I rinse and use the cheese cloth to help squeeze the buttermilk out. I like the food processor method better, but when you go and break it, well you need an alternative!!! {no I didn't break it making butter, I broke it grating cheese, if you can believe it!!} Of course I won't mention I also broke one of my blenders!! {again, not making butter, blending a smoothie. I think the A who last washed dishes didn't attach it correctly, and I didn't check. I always check, except that one time.} Yeah I know, honestly that is what I get for trying to purchase the cheapest kitchen tools, they seriously don't last. Anyone have any suggestions on a good food processor or blender??
I have a Bosch, LOVE it, and it's about the only thing that has lasted through the years, of feeding a houseful. I hated the plastic junky blender attachments for the Bosch. I broke one of those a few years back too. Maybe it's me, I don't know. I looked at the food processor for the Bosch, but I am a bit scared of it, considering my experience with the blender.

The next to do, I believe will be yogurt. We eat tons of yogurt. I only buy the all natural, no growth hormones, and no sugar kinds. So that ton can cost a pretty penny. Anyone know of some good videos or tutorials to learn this skill?? I have read a bit about it, looks simple enough.

Really any comments on food processors or blenders?? I would love to hear from you!

Artisan Bread Recipe....

2010-04-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

haven't tried yet, but let me explain! I have crazy week, the kids are in an extra class for a few more nights, and I am running low on steam!! So I am planning on making this either tomorrow or Saturday, I'll try to remember to tell you how it goes!! But until then, I didn't want to loose the recipe, so I thought, hay I'll post it on my blog, and never forget where I stuck it!!!
recipe for artisan bread!!! Looks wonderful!!

Bacon, Egg and Avacado Salad....

2010-04-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

I tried this recipe from The Nourishing Gourmet, and it was wonderful. If you'd like a photo, check hers out!! See around here, when the food's finished, it's eaten so fast, there's no thought of a photo!!! We also purchased this wonderful artisan whole wheat bread, with no yucky additives or sugars, from Costco. It was wonderful!! I LOVE Costco!!
We doubled the recipe, from on her post.
We used spinach, No nitrate/nitrite bacon, and about 8 hard boiled eggs. I also threw in some grape tomatoes.
Then I made the ranch dressing, found in this free whole foods cookbook. It's called the Pantry Principles by Kathryn Louis, it's on her Kitchen and homemaking blog, Kate's Kitchen. Scroll down a bit, on the right sidebar. You can print it for free or purchase it for cheap!
Enjoy, I know we did!! That one's being added to our list of meal ideas!

Pedal Vision.... a new way to limit TV!

2010-04-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

One of the discussion you always see or hear on the homeschool loops, websites and blogs is how to monitor television time.. well I have a new one for you!

from the associate press:

PHOENIX (AP) — Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio has started a program he calls "Pedal Vision," in which inmates pedal stationary bikes to generate electricity for television sets. The bikes are customized to turn on connected TV sets once inmates at Phoenix's Tent City Jail pedal enough to generate 12 volts of electricity. An hour of pedaling equals an hour of television.

Arpaio said inmates only will be able to watch television if they choose to pedal.

He said he started the program with female inmates because they seemed more receptive.

Arpaio said the only exercise female inmates have been getting is speed-walking around the tent yard.

He said Pedal Vision gives them a reason to get moving and a way to burn calories.

You see you won't have to monitor the timer. I know children, and I am sure they might "not hear the timer" or many other things!!! So with this set up, the TV simply turns off!! Not only that, but they can have a few lessons while the family figures out how to set it up! That would be one great electricity lesson. I am sure there would be plenty of others involved. Oh and PE, that is one "class" that homeschoolers struggle with.
OH the possibilities!!!! I actually think this would be an awesome idea if TV viewing was a problem. You could even simply require the pedaling, before you would allow the TV on. If your movie is 120 minutes long, I have to have 120 minutes of pedal time first.
No Papa Bear, I am not thinking of doing this around here. I am okay with our current way!!!

Field Trip~ National Oregon-California Trail Center

2010-04-06T19:24:00.000-07:00

We recently toured the National Oregon~California Trail Center, in Montpelier Idaho. If you are local to Montpelier, or are willing to travel 2 hours to get there, you should!

Here's a few highlights:

In the basement they have a collections of Historical Artifacts. If you can believe it this Phonograph still works. The lady played it for us.

Here is a demonstration by one of the tours employees, and her granddaughter. She was teaching us about how they could use old wagon wheels to make woven rugs. They also spoke about the beautiful quilts that were made.

Can you see that "machine" on top of the wagon wheel? This is one way that the pioneers could count their daily mileage. They said that the original way was with the rag tied to the wheel, a young child would walk next to the wheel on the wagon and count it's rotations, by counting how many times the rag went around... nothing like car sickness... or I guess walking sickness!! Then Orson Pratt, a Mormon Pioneer invented the mileage tracking instrument that is above the wheel.

Here we are in the "storehouse" learning about, discussing the best provisions to take, and why.

Here we are getting our wagons loaded and prepared, with our wagon master.

Before we leave, everyone 12 and older must have a gun! A1 was thrilled, A4 a little bummed!

This is the gun shop, where they would make the guns.

At this Museum, they have people who dress up and act the character's parts. It is very kid friendly, and a great place. They also have a wagon ride, that is an actual ride, not of a real wagon. It moves and feels like a real wagon. While in it, there is a recording of journal entries. The younger children were a bit unsure of this, it's dark, and even when they put a light on as the sun, inside the wagons they are still dark. Plus it moves!! It was very realistic. A few times I felt I might fall right through, with the pulling up on the front of the wagon and the falling backwards from the back of the wagon.

Now if that wan't enough, I'll post about what we did when we got home!

Nothing like an eventful day!

Spring cleaning....

2010-04-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

Spring cleaning.... the blog that is!!! What do you think?

things we love {FAVORITES}

2010-04-01T15:29:00.001-07:00

I am trying to declutter, declutter the house, declutter our lives, and ofcourse declutter our blog!

Here's a list of all our favorites, in one place. You can find this list at the Favorites tab, on the sidebar. Just click it and this list will come up!

Preschool, Kindergarten, and ABC's
Cullen's ABC's very cute preschool type vidoes and preschool ideas.
ABC Jesus Loves me~ very cute all religious for mostly preK or K.
Hubbard's Cupboard~ Love this site, every time I go there, I find more!
Home Grown Hearts~ Mostly preK and K. Homeschool blogger, just sharing her things!
Learning Treasures~ Fun cute printables. Some free, some cheap!

Homeschool Blogs I LOVE
Dean's Academy~ good friend, she shares unit studies, workboxes, and ideas and tips.. along with life.
Five J's~ home to Thirsty Thursdays, and so much more.
Homeschool Creations~ So much to offer.
Milestone Academy~ Everthing Classical and Charlotte Mason.
Rockin C~ Homeschool Mom, who loves to keep it real, and share her ideas.
Spell Out Loud~ Printables, ideas, and digi scrap.
Alarm Clockers~ good friend, who shares tips and ideas for unit studies.

Printables for your homeschool only~
Donna Young~ mostlikely she has a schedule or idea here for you.
The math worksheet site~ we love these for fact drill, and well when we are waiting for our curriculum to ship!

COME ON!!!!!!!!! REALLY?????

2010-03-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well in case you didn't notice, that title is said in a very loud, very frustrating scream!!!!
No the A's are all behaving {as well as A's behave, that is!!} Yeah it's snowing here, and I am so done with the snow, but no that's not it either!

Let me back up a bit, and start my story at the beginning. Last Monday, I was doing some wash, and we heard a large clank in the washer. Hmmm that didn't sound good, it could be anything~ REALLY! Talk about some odd items going through our washer. Tuesday morning we got up, and hit the road for a field trip. We needed to be there early... no time to do any laundry before. When we got home, I threw in a load. The machine beeped, it's ever so annoying BEEP~BEEP~BEEP! That is one thing I hate about this machine it BEEPS FOREVER!!! I instantly walked over to take out the load, and it was socking wet. There was no way it spun. So I put it on the spin only cycle, and left the room. Again, it BEEPED!!! I went in and again found the machine full of wet clothes. Well it was too late to call the appliance center where I purchased it. That's 2 days of no laundry, in a house full of A's, the laundry is piling up. Wends morning I call the appliance center, after figuring out it is still under warranty, as I thought. They said we can get our repair man over tomorrow to take a look. GREAT, another day of no laundry... this isn't looking good. The repair man comes, does some looking, and decides we need a new electrical board. I say to him,.... how long do you think that will be? Oh probably next Tuesday! GREAT, that's all I could think of! Papa Bear reminded me of an older washer we had in our storage shed, and said he could bring it on Saturday, and I could use that. Oh what a relief. Saturday, first thing in the morning... we dug that washer out! YES THAT WAS DUG!!! It was buried, it was being used as a storage shelf! He hooked it up outside to the tap, to make sure it worked, and what do you know it LEAKED, EVERYWHERE!!! Thankfully we were off to visit Grandma, and I called and asked if I could bring a few loads of badly needed items. That was 1 week of no laundry! Of course she graciously said yes! Oh and she even did the laundry while Papa bear and I took care of some errands... not only did she do the laundry, but she kept the A's all except A7 who detests being left at Grandpa and Grandma's!! He's a stinker!!! OH clean clothes smell so good!!!
Tuesday late afternoon the repair man shows up, and fixes the machine. It took him maybe 20 minutes! I managed to get 3 loads through, before bedtime.
I went to bed Tuesday night, with the plan to wake up... and run that laundry machine ALL DAY, NON STOP!!! Wednesday morning, as we were getting ready to do the breakfast dishes, and start our day of non stop laundry.... the water isn't working!!!! Are you kidding me??? COME on!!! REALLY?????? So now do I not only have a laundry room, FULL {over flowing} with dirty clothes, but I also have a STINKY KITCHEN full of DIRTY DISHES!!!!!

Long story short, I decided after this happened, I can not let it get me down. I must move on. My first thought was great, I am SO NOT being MOM TODAY!! Then I thought, what type of example would I be setting for my children if I did that. I simply shut the laundry room door... and have tried not to enter the stinky kitchen..... put a smile on and started our day!

Number Songs Printables.

2010-03-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

I got my creative groove today, and made these Number songs. Now I am no where as creative as a lot of the bloggers out there!!! I am not set up to do such cute things, I don't have a nice program. Anyways, I made these very simple, but cute number songs... and thought I'd share!

very cool animal ABC color pages....

2010-03-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

These came through a yahoo homeschool email list I am on.... very cool!!!

I thought they were cool enough to share!

ENJOY!

MELISSA AND DOUG SALE!!!!

2010-03-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

Jump on over to Barnes and Noble, they are having a Melissa and Doug SALE!!!! YIPEE!!!! 45% off and free shipping if you order $25 or more!!! It appears that this sale ends March 29th, so don't delay! Do watch that it's from Barnes and Noble, or you can't get the free shipping. I watch for these sales all year long, and purchase things for the A's for Birthdays and Holidays. I put them away, and keep a running list of what I have purchased in my planner!!! Works for me!!!
I think that's a trick I learned from my Mom, she does that often!!!

Wonderful Workbox Finds!!!

2010-03-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

{Photo from Amazon, link below}

I am sure you have all heard of workboxes, they are everywhere... in the homeschool world. I started implementing the workbox idea with A5 and A6. I am still working out all the details. We currently have their regular work in the drawers, and they work through them. I am finally {sad to say, FINALLY} ready to start getting myself into gear here!!!

I found a few wonderful workbox finds, and thought I'd share!

~I came across these drawers, {pictured above} and love the look of them, the simplicity in design.. and size. I purchased two of them. {no I didn't pay that price!!}

~I also found this wonderful planning sheet at Robin's Blog, Heart of Wisdom. I love these, I printed off two. I copied them to my computer and made one for A5 in "boy" colors and one for A6 in "girl" colors. This way I can glance quickly at them to "see" who's who and what they are suppose to be doing. These are pretty simple forms, and could easily be changed or made to fit your style. I figure if someone has already done all the hard work, and is willing to share... I might as well enjoy their hard work!!! She has made them to work on her computer, I personally think better with pencil and paper. So I printed off a couple and I might laminate them and use a wipe off marker to plan our workbox week?

~Also at Robin's Blog, heart of wisdom... she shared her workbox numbers and cards to place the numbers when the drawer is completed. I LOVE the look of these!!! I printed off some, sent them through my laminator. Then I punched a hole in the tops and placed them on a key ring. I just happened to have some very cute ones that matched perfectly!!! Left over from an old chore card system we use to use. I didn't print the lifeskills or tags, just the numbers, though they are all very nicely done and very cute. However our typical day is done early enough that I don't add things like that. I like to just sit and get school done, so we can move on and have fun with free time.

~Now a trick to save on laminating, this came from Confessions of a Homeschooler. When you laminate you put two pages back to back. So the front of the page is outside on both sides. Then you send them, through your laminator. When you cut them out, you also pull them apart, so they are only laminated on the front, the side you typically need laminated, and the back is not laminated. It works great, although don't forget to change your paper to cardstock, I did that a few times, and had to laminate both sides for better support. We haven't had a problem with this, and it doubles up your laminating sheets. I love these smart ladies who share such wonderful ideas!!

WOW I just saw these labels for your supplies, these are very cute! I might have to start printing, again.

PreK letter of the week

2010-03-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a second and mention this wonderful letter of the week program. You can download all her fun things, free online. Though a much more simpler way, and way to support her for all her hard work, you can purchase it for $10 to download, or I believe $15 for a CD. There are so many wonderful resources, she has made. It's all so very cute, my little girly A's love it. I am sure come time for A7 to learn his letters, I will need to change a few of them, I will need to add a bit more for a boy.... but $10 for a complete years worth of letters, is wonderful... so much less than paying for a preschool!!!!!

Oh and if you haven't seen this blog, you so need to go there... LOVE IT!!!!

Confessions of a Homeschooler. The link to her letter of the week download is on the side bar. She also is so willing to help, I had a problem with the download, and she was right on fixing it for me.

Nourishing Chicken Bone Stock...

2010-03-25T07:30:00.000-07:00

What's for dinner tonight?? Don't you LOVE that questions!??! My best response, so far to that all but loved question.... food {said in a melancholy way!} Then the next question I always hear... What kind of food?? {this is the best part!! Said in a "Mom kind of way"} The EDIBLE kind!!!! The A's HATE it!!! Now what does all that have to do with Chicken Bone Stock??? Well nothing really, I just thought I'd start with it, it makes for a good introduction...

I just ran across this post, about making Chicken Broth Stock in your crockpot. {I love my crockpots} and this site it's called Naturally Knocked Up. Not that I need help in the being knocked up area!! However she still has tons of great natural insights!

I am making this tonight, letting it simmer tomorrow, and then well see how it is!! The only reason I thought I'd try this, is we had Chicken for dinner {yes the EDIBLE kind!!} I currently purchase store bought, organic, range free chicken broth, and it's pricey. So I thought we'd give this a try and see what we thought.

our points, and family store system.... SIMPLIFIED!!

2010-03-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

SIMPLIFY!!!

I LOVE that word!!!

because raising a houseful is chaotic, crazy, noisy, extreme... {I could go on and on}

I try to make everything I do, as simple as I possibly can, because quite frankly if it takes too much from Mama Bears time, she's not going to continue it!!! Yeah I'm a simple kind of gal!!!

So our Family Store, and Points System.... we love it, but not how it was running!!!

The family store, was there to simplify the idea of standing in the checkout line with 4+ children waiting for each of them to pay the cashier!!! Well, remembering or trying to stock our family store... wasn't so simple. I also didn't like the fact that most of their hard earned point money was being spent on candy and junk!!! Junk in junk food, and junk in junk toys!!! Which was another aspect I was trying to avoid.

The above picture is how I have simplified our points. With the point system we would cash in our points for family money. Then they could use that family money {play money} for things in our store, or save it, or cash it in for real money. I kept track on a larger wipe off board, and kept daily tallies. NOW we are using a much smaller wipe off board, and I keep a weekly record. So each A has the opportunity to earn up to 220 points a week. The little A's I changed to 110, because they don't have as many responsibilities and such. We just erase the numbers needed to change, and change it. Every Monday I will look at that weekly record, each point is worth a whopping 2 cents! Instead of our family store, I now have a small notepad, and each child has a page. When it's full I'll rip it out and write down their balance there. Every Monday I figure out their weekly earnings. {I don't call it an allowance, I call it earnings, like a pay check} We add that to what they have in their account. Then when we are at the store and they see something they can ask to have something. We discuss it, and if it's something they want and it's okayed I pay for it and then deduct it from their balance in their account. There's no more Mom I want to use my point money, and Mama Bear not knowing if they even have point money. All purchases must be okayed, and I try not to say "no" but if it's a dumb purchase, I simply explain why! You see A4 you already have a pocket size flashlight, must you get another one? Is that a wise purchase? A4 says, yes Mom it is, I lost mine.... Mama Bear then simply explains that just because you purchase another one, doesn't mean you won't loose that one too. It might be a wiser choice to find your lost one, first! A4 then will either decide Mama Bear knows best, or not!!! Luckily my A's still mostly think Papa and Mama Bear are the smartest Bears in all the Woods!!!!!!

Brite Music Sale...

2010-03-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

Just sending out a heads up to everyone... Brite Music is have a 40% off their "systems" and 25% off some of their bundles!! We don't have many of these, but love the ones we do. They are pricey, but so worth it!
Here's a link to the Brite Music Website and Sale.

I am JUMPING OFF THE SHIP!!! So to speak...

2010-03-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

What does that mean!??! What ship are you jumping from? Where are you jumping to? How are you planning on jumping?? Well let me tell you.... I am jumping into the great deep, dark and "unknown" world, I am planning on jumping Titanic style, Spread Eagle that is!!!

No seriously folks, I have decided that for our upcoming curriculum, we are going to jump into the area of {dare I even say it??} Traditional Christian TEXTBOOKS!!!! {I can hear you all moan, and groan and say OH NO!!!!}

Yes TEXTBOOK, tends to be a "bad" word in the homeschool world. It's one of those 3-letter words, okay so it's actually an Eight-letter word. I am not sure why TEXTBOOKS have such a bad name to homeschoolers. Actually I do, it has to do with the dumbing down of America. It has to do with short tidbits of information crammed into a lesson, bits and pieces of history... never knowing the whole thing. HOWEVER, you must also admit, that there are NOW so many choices in TEXTBOOKS, there are now so many different, not boring text in the market.
The world of homeschooling has evolved and changed to meet the needs of all types of homeschoolers. It's amazing. Not that I was one of the first homeschoolers in America... or that I even knew there was such a thing as homeschool, back when I was in school. Because quite frankly I didn't and I wasn't. Though I do know a few of those homeschoolers. I have imagined what it was like trying to homeschool, when you didn't have homeschool catalogues, the size of an encyclopedia! Or have so many choices, styles, and methods to teach everything... honestly it can {now a days} be very tiresome to get everything straight and keep up on all the "latest and greatest"

So why textbooks, why now? A1 has been almost completely independent this year, with his learning. Not that I don't know what he's doing, or that he gets to do what he wants... oh no! At the beginning of the year both of us together looked through a few different textbooks we had and he choose one for Science and one for History. Along with that, we figured out a book or a few books he can read about the same subject. He has been learning in leaps and bounds. It is making his studies feel more like they belong, he loves the chronology of the history, he loves the fact that his science has structure and it follows incrementally. Not only that but A2 and A3 don't think it's fair!!! They see he knows what needs to be done, and he does it... he doesn't have to wait for Mom/teacher. It's difficult being a Mom and Teacher. How many times a day do we get interrupted by A6 and A7? How much time to I have to spend in helping A5 become a better reader, and work on his speech habits? How long does it take to teach A6 to read? YES that is all a long time... a good chunk of my day!!! So if they want Independence, and that is one of my biggest goals in homeschool.... for my children to know how to learn, to love to learn and to be able to learn independently along with in a group setting. Why would I stop, what I actually am trying to do??

So why textbooks, because for me it seems the easiest and most natural way for a child to be independent. I also was thinking to myself, what area/subject are my children the "best" at... speaking generally of course! MATH, they all have a pretty good at it. Okay so A2 isn't the best in this area, but she is coming along... and I truly say that is because I simply have her work and work at the lesson until she has mastered it. We take it slow and steady. We don't talk about grade levels and what you "should" know at her age. We simply say... Math isn't your best area of knowledge, it's okay, but you must learn your math and math facts. You can't give up, you just need to work a little harder and get a little more help. Another area we are generally good at... SPELLING. Again a subject we have used a textbook for. Handwritting, is in general good. Of course a lot of that depends on their desire to write nicely, to take the time to do it right. Their handwritting in their handwritting books is all great! Again we have simply used a textbook for this one. SO are you seeing the same pattern I saw?? Interesting!!!

Another thing that came to my mind about this, is we are a no nonsense kind of family. I like structure {which is apparent in my blog, I am sure!} I like things orderly. I also like to make things simple, I am not a frilly, silly kind of person. I don't need cutesy things. I don't like messes, I don't like extra noise. I have little ones running around, causing many "problems"
I also think it would be easier for me to implement fun activities, and learning games into our school, if I had something to "follow"

Anyways, this is so not a post to try to convince you or {more importantly} me that I am making a good decision. This is not a post to try to get approval from others. It's simply a post, for those of you who have wondered about doing this. Who have thought about JUMPING SHIP.... and need someone to help.... PUSH YOU OVER THE EDGE!!!!! {that's me, so to speak!!!}

Now for the hard part... picking and choosing! If you have already jumped ship into the deep dark world of TEXTBOOKS.... do you mind sharing some of your favorites??

Whole Wheat snickerdoodles...

2010-03-04T19:23:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, we decided to try to make some Whole Wheat Snicker doodles. I have always loved Snicker doodles, what's not to love??? Papa Bear and a few of the A's have always hated them, so I received mixed reviews when I suggested we make them! Papa Bear came home from work that night, and I showed him the cookies, and said do you like Snicker doodles? Papa Bear's response, No not really, but I like Peanut Butter Cookies!! {I believe there was a HINT HINT added there!!} Well he broke down, and started craving something sweet and yummy!!! He ate one and said, WOW those are pretty good. He ate another and said, Yeah those are good!!! {Okay maybe not his exact words, but it was close!!}

So here's the recipe I used, I found it on All Recipes. It's called

Whole Wheat Snicker doodles II

Here's the original recipe. I will add the changes I made to them after the recipe.

Original Recipe Yield 5 dozen

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 egg white
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter or margarine until fluffy. Add egg and egg white; beat well. Stir together flours, soda, and salt; beat into creamed mixture.
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon. Shape dough into walnut sized balls, and roll in cinnamon sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake at 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Cookies will puff up and flatten as they bake. Cool on wire racks.

My Variations:

I used Whole Wheat Pastry Flour, and Spelt Flour... absolutely no white flour. I have always wondered why people {and companies} insist on titling recipes whole wheat when they are not!??!

I used Pure Cane Sugar

I also added some vanilla

And I added 1/2 t Cream of Tartar. I read this in the reviews section.

These were very yummy!! The little A's especially enjoyed rolling them in the sugar and cinnamon. Of course when they were finished they also enjoyed licking their fingers!!

ENJOY!!

Canned Food Rotation System

2010-02-25T20:00:00.000-08:00

{Photo from Shelf Reliance Website}
I would have taken a picture of my own, but it's in our dark and dreary storage room... this picture just looks happier!!!!

We love, Love, LOVE this... the Harvest 72" Food Rotation System by Shelf Reliance.

So I thought I would post a quick review of it, here.

Many homeschoolers.... epecially homeschoolers of a houseful, tend to stock up, by in bulk and well need food-lots and lots of food!!!!! I ran across this at a local store, and fell in love with it! {AWE Love at first site!!} Papa Bear, well he doesn't have that love of all things organized as I do. Not to say he's not organized.... but it's just not in MY way of being organized!!! He actully thinks I'm weird, because everything I do, or say... somehow turns into an organizing project. And yet, I always feel so unorganized, maybe if everyone else would just do it like I wanted it done, that would be taken care of. I actually have warned everyone if they can't do it my way.... I am going to have to go through out our house and label everything. I already have labeled a few things, but well Papa Bear and the A's think I'm label happy. {I might agree, some days I might admit it!!}

SO back to the subject... all things organized. We purchase tons of food around here. Feed a Mouthful of a Houseful of Homeschoolers is, well work. I purchase things I know we eat, everyday in bulk or if it's on sale, you can guarentee I will have a large amount in my shopping cart. I also hate the thought of, A finding, or B thinking that I might not be eating the food in proper rotations. The A's mostly put our food away in our storage room, and so it can get a bit messy. I love this system, you simply put your newest purchased cans at the top, and they roll down to the line of waiting food. No more wondering if they grabbed the correct one.

Also should I mention it... yes I better.... it comes with magnetic lables {YIPEE} There are pre-made labels, with cute pictures on them. There are also a bunch of blank magnetic labels to write your own names.

This was relativly easy to assemble {though Papa Bear might not agree} For the size of it, it wasn't that bad. Once we figured it out and got a system going, it went quickly. I would reccomend to read the instructions, it was a bit confusing looking at all the pieces. Another bonus I love about this, is that unlike pre-made or built in units, this is 1 free standing. Meaning I can move it as many times as I like. Well as many times as I can convince Papa Bear to move it! And 2 it is easy to adjust the rolling racks. Since we have changed our diet we don't eat certain items like we use to. This was easily fixed. You simply change the size that you have the rack set at. Also the labels are magnetic, and easily moved. That is one thing I disliked, the lables fall off easily, especially if it's little A's putting food away. Though somehow the food still can get put in the correct rack.... even without the labels.... go figure!
So my organization loving self, give this unit an A++

Also there are many smaller sizes and different units, depending on your needs. Since we are a houseful... it seems everything we buy tends to be.... well.... LARGE!!!!

Germs... Germs... Germs... oh and some bacteria too!

2010-02-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

Just recently I was thinking to myself... man these kids have got to be better about washing their hands, and keeping things CLEAN!!!! not just "clean" {anyone with kids, understands what I am saying}

Then I received one of the science email newsletters from Home Science Tools {LOVE THEM!!!} all about germs, soap and hands!! Perfect.

If you don't already get these.... you so need to. Nothing like discovering a love of science! We have always done science, but now we love science. Follow the link above, and click on the tab email newsletters.

Now for Germs....Germs...Germs.... oh and some bacteria too

from the Homeschooling a Houseful... homeschool!!!!!

here are 4 out of 6 of our containers. Two of the A's wrote their names, so I can't post them. If I had been thinking {or if this inspires you to do this experiment} I would have written on them, what we used to collect the germs!!

First up EGGS!!!! We raise chickens and collect their eggs. This is the responsibility of the children. I am always, nagging-begging-pleading with them to wash their hands good. So that day, after A3 washed the eggs and washed her hands {to what she considered good} I informed them that we were going to do this experiment {TRICKY!!!} First off we collect from her hands.
GROSS!!!!

Next in the container labeled AGG, is one of my A's hands. This A did not wash their hands before, or anything. This A wanted to see what their "real" hands would be like! Honestly this isn't as bad as I expected... the A's had come in from playing outside. They went out for a break, while the solution hardened, about 15-25 mins... so I figured they be very dirty.

The container labeled AMM is from the kitchen counter. Right next to where we were doing this, and I will admit, that's GROSS!!!! I need to remember to Sanitize the counters more often! Come on there's a houseful of A's running around here.... did you see how dirty their little hands are!!

The final container to show is from herself.... Mama Bear!! I had a serious sinus infection.... so what better than to blow my nose, and wipe it with a cotton swab, for our containers!!! This one I figured would do better, but I didn't wipe right into the mucus that I blew out of my nose!!! I wiped the other side, where it soaked through {okay I know, gross... too many details} So we learned even using a tissue, doesn't get it all, sometimes it goes through the tissue onto your hands!

The other two were from our very dirty stove top {let me mention VERY DIRTY!!!} and from the front of the fridge, mostly by the handle that you grab to open.

Let's just say the kitchen is one germy place!!!!

Oh and the directions said to place these in a cool dark place. SO I put them in my hutch thinking it would be cool and dark and not bothered. Well remember when you do this, there is also a "wonderful" smell that comes with growing bacteria!!! A2 opened the hutch to look at them this morning, and she said it stinks in there, like someone tooted {that's our polite way of saying, passing gas!!!!} Yeah not yummy!!! I kept thinking it smells weird up here, whenever I walked up the stairs, which just happens to be close to the hutch.... go figure!!!

Ladybug girl and avocado plants

2010-02-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

At our last visit to the library, A6 got a book titled Ladybug Girl. She loved this book... it was her choice for nap book everyday. I am sure I memorized it... after reading it that many times. It was a sad day, when Ladybug girl was returned to the library. It was a very cute book, and easy to make "educational" A perfect unit book. One thing Ladybug Girl did was water her avocado plant. Every time I said this, A6 asked what's an avocado plant? We went out and bought some avocado's and today started our plants. {this way to grow avocado plants didn't work, I believe that it might be better to try the dark cupboard way? Will let everyone know when we try again!} Even though we don't have the book anymore, they still remembered, and said... Like in Ladybug Girl!!!! As a side note we didn't space our toothpicks right, so we used four to make it balance on top of the water.

Guess what A6 will be getting shortly... her own copy of Ladybug Girl {sshhhhh, don't tell}

{you probably notice I borrowed both of these pictures from the links... sorry I'm too busy {LAZY} to take my own!!}

how we use Saxon {or amy text} year round....

2010-02-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

Yes we are going to become year-round schoolers. We use to be year-round, then for a few years Papa Bears Nephew lived with us, and it was "easier" for everyone to go along with the public schools schedule. However if I ever had another child in public school, I'd still go year round and make it work in others ways. {but that's a whole different post}

We also love Saxon Math. I always thought A2 would need a different math curriculum, however she has learned to work Saxon, and it works!!!

That being said, I do not use the early Saxon. I used these with A1, and when it was only him, it worked. However I can not sit down and "teach" math to all my children day in and day out. Not to mention, Mama Bear all but detests math!!! We love the Rod and Staff Math, and we have used Abeka for the first years. Now we are only using Rod and Staff, it's much cheaper and I believe has better review. I also enjoy being able to purchase materials and keep using them for all the A's and not have to keep purchasing so many things! So we stick to Rod and Staff. A3 is currently using Rod and Staff 4. This is the farthest we have taken Rod and Staff. We did this because, A2 and A3 did not want to have to share a math curriculum. A2 is about half way through, and A3 needed to begin it.

So how do we use Saxon Math, and me not "teach" math??? I simply give the A's the math text they read the lesson, do their lesson! I am always available for help, for questions and such... but they usually figure it out themselves. Even A5 is doing Rod and Staff's math 1 and does this unless it's something new she needs explained.

So how do I schedule our math, year around? I don't!!! and I love it!!!!!!! We simply move through the books, lesson by lesson. We rotate doing the Problem Solving and Mental Math box, with the Math Facts timed test. So the first lesson they do the Math Facts timed test, then lesson two is the Problem Solving and Mental Math box, then with lesson three it's the timed test. After I correct the lesson, they can only get 10 or fewer wrong to "pass off" the lesson. Sometimes if they get most or all of their errors in the practice problems or I feel they didn't do the lesson well, or need to review something they didn't do well on. They will repeat the lesson again. If they get 10 or more wrong on their lesson they repeat it the next day. This has made it so they are super careful and work through each question thoroughly. That or they are lazy and then do it again!! After I correct the first time, they get to correct the mistakes, this is where I can "see" if they are struggling with a concept or not understanding something. Sometimes they just simply weren't thinking, or simply not awake, or simply not paying attention. This is where I make my decision if it's a lesson that needs repeating.

We also do Math first thing in the morning. They get up, shower, dress take care of hygiene do their personal scripture devotional and personal prayers along with journal entries. {all in the order they chose, depending on the day and such} Then they move into Math, until we do our morning family scripture devotional. I believe they do better first thing in the morning, have better concentration and are able to tune their brains into the math mode, right off!!! We use to not be so strict about this, and since A2 thinks math is the worst thing in the world... next to crab {she gets sick every time she eats crab} she would wait and do math last, after I made her do it first her scores improved... interesting enough!

So that's how we do math, how we do year around school. I truly believe, and can even say from experience, Math needs to be done everyday. I noticed when we weren't year around schoolers, we simply had to re-learn so much, it wasn't worth it to us. We try to work out schedule around the weather and seasons. Usually we get up do yard work, gardening, and such in the mornings when it's cooler outside, and school in the early afternoons when it's HOT!

Well it works for us! What works for you??

50 States~ opening time ideas

2010-02-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

I need to post this here, see I just read it on another local homeschooler blog, and we all said... hey we learned that before! My good friend Andrea taught it to us, a few years ago! Since it's such a hit, and so loved... I thought the littler A's need a turn to learn it too... so this weeks geography song, will be the 50 states that rhyme!!! Thanks Lara! I had no idea it was on You Tube... it seems everything is on you tube!!!

need more science fun....

2010-02-10T21:27:00.001-08:00

that is one thing I walked away from our local winter homeschool convention thinking.... need more science fun. We do science, and it's fun, but we need to add those

WOW...AWESOME...AHHHHH

type of activities too.

I found two fun sites, and you know what's awesome they both will send me fun science activities each week! Some are even from simple things around the house. I am so excited!!!

Steve Spangler Science~ this guy is awesome!!! there's videos and all sorts of fun ideas on this site. This is the site the homeschool mom/teacher told us about, and she said there's easily a years worth of science on this site.... she was so not kidding.

Home Science Tools~ this is another great one. I have received a few of their emails, and they use a lot of around the house items for many of their emailed experiments, or at least the ones I've seen so far.

Anyone else, have any great sites to add or share???? Remember, I LOVE COMMENTS!!!!

Family Movie Night.....

2010-02-10T17:30:00.000-08:00

Did I ever mention we don't watch TV??? Well we don't, not television that is. We do watch movies, Papa and Mama Bear approved! It seems there are just way too many questionable things on television. If it's not the advertisements, it's the content of the movie itself. I mean come on, Victoria Secret commercials during a preschool age movie!???!! In my book that's just plain wrong.
Since it seems the more I talk with other parents, both homeschool and not, it seems parents are starting to question the values of the television. Hooray, I am so excited people are seeing with their values.

Now we do own movies, and actually quite a few. Here's a list of a few of our favorites:

Little House on the Prairie while we enjoy all the ones we have.... it seems the earlier ones have more values and less questions.

the Waltons same thing with the Waltons, it seems the earlier ones are the safer ones.

Anne of Green Gables

Dr Dino {Dr. Hovind} We have his creation science seminar series, love them.

Love comes Softly Series

Leap Frog, Letter Factory, Math Circus, Talking Words Factory, Code Word Capers

Moody Science Movies, I must just mention, while we love these... we don't need all the flashy business in your typical movies. These use everyday, real life pictures. They are what most would consider "boring" Though we are that family, somewhat boring!!!

Nest Products, we own almost all of these, and love them.

Veggie Tales, We own some of these. While some of them get a little too crazy and silly for us!

Emma Smith Movie, love, love, love this!

Book of Mormon Movie, can't wait for the next one in this series.

Old Yeller and Savage Sam,

7 Brides for 7 Brothers,

The sound of music,

Heidi, I think we have owned 3 of these over the years, we wear them out!

Also if you are looking for a new way to store all these DVD's check out my post here!

babies in Utah...

2010-01-30T08:03:00.000-08:00

My Sister in Love, has started a photography business, and she takes the cutest pictures!! If you happen to live in Utah, and need new baby photos... check out her site.
Marlina Gilbert Photography. She's running a baby special until the end of March.

yummy Spinach and Strawberry Salad...

2010-01-29T17:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry no pictures, every time we make this, I eat it all up!!! I forget to shoot a picture before. Sorry too many things to remember at meal times!!

Strawberries, we usually use 2 cartons FRESH only
Red onion, we usually use one, and slice thin
Spinach, ofcourse organic. NEVER eat non organic lettuces.... seriously your leafy greens suck up all the water and things around them... all greens need to be organic.

Slice strawberries, we like them sliced vertical {long ways} Slice onion and wash spinach.

Now for the best dressing ever!
4 T honey
2T oil, we use to use olive oil, but are now in love with grapeseed.
2T rice vinegar
3T balsamic vinegar
1t poppy seeds, Papa Bear dislikes poppy seeds, so we leave them out when he's home.
Mix, stir, whisk or shake!!
drizzle over salad when you are ready to eat, not early. Then toss.

this dressing doesn't seem like a lot, but it is. The last of our salad is dripping in it. So if you are making a smaller salad, maybe you should cut it all in half...or make extra for another salad another night! It's so good.
Not sure where I got this from, we have been eating this FOREVER!!!
Enjoy!

Winter/Seasons/Snowflake Bentley Unit

2010-01-27T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am preparing, gathering and getting ready to begin {again} our unit with the littler A's about Seasons/Winter/Snowflake Bentley and Balto! I haven't gotten anything yet on Balto, he's later into our unit, so I am not there yet!!
We started it the day I purchased it, I was so excited to do it!!! However I decided I better take a few moments and plan what we will be doing!!! SLOW DOWN!!
I just wanted to put a few links here I have found. Since I believe in giving credit, where credit is due.... I will link you directly to the posts I stole, or I mean took my ideas from! {someone help, I forgot how to cross out words on my blog??!!??}
I started with this, Download and Go Winter Wonders We are planning on extending these to the max!! Some days, might go 2-3 days, some might go a week or more. Alot will depend on the kids, and my ability!
Then I found some more fun ideas
Spell Out Loud, is doing the same download and go activities, and she has some wonderful links, mostly for Snowflake Bentley, here.
1+1+1=1 has some fun ideas, and winter packs for additional ideas, mostly for A5&6. This is where I originally heard about the download and go units, thanks so much for the review. Here's her winter wonders review and the winter printables are on this link.
Then ofcourse I checked out homeschool share, here's the unit I am using a few things from for our Snowflake Bentley Time. We love this book, I purchased it for A1, years and years ago... and everyone has loved it. We also have his snowflakes in photo book, this is also so much fun to look through.
I need to still see if the you tube on homeschool share is on the download and go unit. I love that these have movies, short clips, activities, worksheets, lapbooks, crafts and so much more.
We are excited to get these going again! I am always planning and coming up with units for my younger A's A4-A7... but it makes me so tired. Sometimes I get it all planned, and then I don't want to teach it because, I am exhausted from doing all that work!!!! These will be a nice addition for us. I am sure once in awhile I will go back to the original units I did, things like five in a row, and homeschool share ideas, along with my own ideas. However these will sure make life a lot easier!!!! And I love easier!!!!

beans, beans, wonderful beans!

2010-01-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

I just love reading this blog, Kate's Kitchen. She also has a wonderful homeschool website, see my sidebar Milestone Academy. I use, and have recommended everyone get the principle pantry, it comes from this wonderful lady!
If you like beans. Or if you want to learn more about them, and how to cook them. Check out her post on how to soak and cook beans.

recipe~ Yummy Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies

2010-01-21T15:12:00.000-08:00

This is an old post from my family private blog... sorry if you have seen this before!

Made YUMMY HEALTHY PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES!

This recipe comes from the Amazing Wheat Book
by LeArta Moulton
( It's a great book, we use it all the time)

!!!!With a few updates, and variations at the bottom!!!!

1/2 C veggie oil (we use olive or grapeseed)
1 C Honey

(we use 1/2 ish cup honey, and 1/2 ish cup raw cane sugar
if you use only honey, they taste great, but don't hold a shape)
1/2 C peanut butter
1 egg, beaten
1 T. sour cream
1 tsp. bkg soda
1 1/2 C whole wheat flour

cream oil and honey/sugar. Add peanut butter, egg and mix well. Add sour cream, soda, and flour and beat well. Form into balls, (sometimes we roll them in additional cane sugar!!) about the size of a larger bouncy ball (she said marble, but we like them alittle bigger) place on greased cookie sheet. Press with a fork. Bake at 350 for 10 mins.
Don't overcook, or they are nasty!

We ALWAYS atleast double this, they are so good, chewy, and yummy. We eat them in a few days. So we try to make the mess less times and make more!!
Again Healthy might be a stretch, but healthier!

Oh, and I might next time add more peanut butter, to get a stronger peanut butter taste!

We have been using either grapeseed or coconut oil in these. We prefer the taste. We also are using a combination of Spelt, Brown Rice Four, and Whole Wheat Pastry Four. And adding a little more than the recipe calls for. The addition of Br. Rice and Spelt, helps them raise and hold their shape better. Sometimes, when I have golden syrup I use that too, it has an almost caramel flavor. Molasses is another great addition! Oh and we do add extra Peanut Butter!

recipe Egg-y Rice!

2010-01-21T15:08:00.000-08:00

This is an old post, from my personal family blog... if you happen to read it, then sorry for the repeat.

I made this for dinner, and it turned out very nicely, so I thought I might share!
{Oh and it was quite easy}

Start with cooking your rice {or if you have leftovers use them}
I used brown rice
While your rice is cooking prepare veggies!
I used zucchini, mushrooms, onions, yellow pepper, and garlic.
I sauteed the veggies in a tiny bit of grapeseed oil (which you could easily omit, because I ended up with extra juice at the end)
Once the rice is finished, add 1-2 eggs. (I added 2, I like extra egg-y rice)
is egg-y a word??
I turned off the heat, and put the lid on the rice. I stirred it a few times.
Once the egg is cooked, add to the veggies
Ta-Da!! Yum, Yum!!!
Oh and did I mention, quite healthy!

Sugar, oh sugar!!!

2010-01-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

okay so as i have stated, we don't eat sugar. This being said, we do eat natural cane {also known as turbinado} sugar, honey, stevia and agava. I do try to limit this. I figure to some degree sugar is sugar, and not good, even in it's natural state. I don't want to get into a "sugar fight" with anyone! So all I am going to say, is it's quite common knowledge that sugar isn't good for you. I am a sugar lover! Always have been, I'm sure. I have a very, very, very sweet tooth. Sugar was hard for me to give up. Which is why I am so thankful for so many natural sweeteners!
The reason we stopped, was knowledge, we started studying sugar, and learning about it, and we had to stop. As for our family, we had to give it up all or nothing, we are a cold turkey kind of family!!! We have tried to give up sugar, oh I don't know around 100 times!!! This time it finally stuck. The more I read, the more I study the more I am so thankful for that decision.
So how did we do it, we simply threw out everything that had sugar. Then we started reading EVERYTHING!!! Simply reading the labels, will amaze you. There were so many things I thought were healthy, so many things that said they were healthy, so many things I had no idea had sugar in it that does. It's amazing. I challenged a few of my sister-in-loves {heard that someone, and thought it was so cute!!}, for one week read the labels of everything you eat. Eat normal, or try to eat "healthy" and see how much sugar you are truly eating. It's amazing!!
Do we still eat sugar, sure once in awhile. It's hard to not eat some. We have a rule, no sugar in our home. As for being out and about, we try to make the best decisions we can. We try to take our own desserts to family or homeschool type parties. However each of our children are given the choice when they are gone, to make their own decisions. A1 has almost no problem, he's never been a big sugar-kid, definitely not his Mom's boy there! A3 is definitely a sugar girl, she might even have a bigger, sweeter sweet tooth than her Mom?? Sugar once in awhile, and a true understanding and knowledge of it is our key to good health! No I am definitely not the healthiest person in the world, I am not in the best shape of my life.... but we are on the right path, and always trying to change for the better.
As for sugar in fruits, I believe it's fine and good for you.... I don't believe God would put natural sugar on this world if it wasn't intended for our bodies. I also believe you need some good sugar to help keep your body happy!
Is it hard, actually not too much anymore. There are so many fun treats and yummy natural sweets, we hardly feel like we are missing anything. Actual the other day the A's were all discussing this very thing... and they all agreed, they love the taste of our natural sweeteners, over any others they have ever tasted!!!!
How do you know if someone doesn't eat sugar, you see their A's in the grocery store reading all the labels of anything that "looks" good, to see if their Mama or Papa Bear, just might buy it for them!!! Seriously if you ever see us in the store, with the A's we are probably all standing there reading labels, and if you are an A that can't read yet, you are standing there with something waiting for an older A to read it for you, hoping they will give you permission to let Mama or Papa Bear read it too!!!

It is well with my soul

2010-01-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

you know your an organizer junkie when...

2010-01-06T22:49:00.000-08:00

you walk into a store, and see all the new organizing tools, products, bins and buckets, pails and drawers.... and you start feeling all giddy inside. Yes, GIDDY. Like a child in the toy aisle...

{pictures from the Container Store, did you know there was such an online store?}

Simple Memorization File Box....

2010-01-05T20:18:00.000-08:00

I read this idea a few months ago, and well one thing lead to another, and I am finally getting around to doing it! You know the ever growing to do list, just never seems to get to do-ed!!

For years now, actually the entire time we have been homeschooling, we have memorized. We started simple with scriptures and then slowly added quotes, then hymns and songs, and more and more. Currently we are memorizing;

Weekly: one Poem {usually one week is all we use on a poem, though it depends on the length and how well we really practiced it} one Scripture, one quote, one educational item {again, usually one week, sometimes more when needed} Songs {one Hymn, one Childrens Hymn, one Educational Song, one Patriotic/American history type song, and usually one Seasonal or just for fun song}

Monthly:one Historical Document.

along with a new history facts memorization we will be throwing in. I never really needed this with A1, he tends to be a fact magnet, or maybe that should say a fact sponge! He loves facts, he has a better timeline of history, of time than me. {though honestly people, that is NOT saying much}

I have always had everyone copy the weekly/monthly memory work in a notebook. Then we moved on, rarely seeing or hearing it again. Ofcourse the scriptures and hymns we do, but the rest not usually.

I have made a few New Year changes to our Memorization Work!

First change, I purchased the older A's a hardbound journal, these will now be our memory work notebooks. I thought it would be nicer to have a nicer notebook, making our memory work, hopefully more important to everyone. I simply took some repositional tabs, and counted number of pages in the book, then divided by three {scripture, thought/quote, and poem and historical documents} Then they will copy and date through their journals. The younger A's I will be covering some elementary composition notebooks with cardstock and letting them decorate the covers. I will write something like "my Memory Notebook" on it.

One tip, I heard years ago... when you are dealing with pre-{independent} writers, write what they need to write in a highlighter first, then they can copy the letters, and it's like a nice copy book, but very easy and fast. We use this for journals, narrations, copywork, letter/name/word practice... everything. It takes Mom a few seconds to write it and they they can copy, copy, copy!

The second change, hence the title to this post, our new memorization recitation/repetition box. {not sure what to call it, exactly} First off I have seen this idea in a few different places online, but here's one from Milestone Academy.

Items you will need:
*1 recipe style file box. Since this will be well used, try to get a nice metal or wood one. I couldn't find one like that, but I found a heavy duty plastic one. {okay so I am re-using one I purchased awhile back, for something!}
*39-42 recipe sized file dividers. These are those small dividers you can put in a recipe box. They are usually colorful. I found some nice heavy plastic ones to use for this too. {again in my stash of stuff}
*tons and tons of file cards!

The basic idea is that you write down all the memory facts, scriptures, poems, quotes whatever on cards and move them through the box. So let's say we are memorizing the Poem, Who has seen the wind? by Christina Rossetti. I would write that poem along with authors name on it's own card. Meaning each week we will be adding around 5 cards {using my system above} All new cards you are working on memorizing, or in our case that weeks memory work, will be after the first divider, labeled current. The next two dividers are labeled odd and even. The next 5 dividers are labeled Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. {I might add two more for Saturday and Sunday? I keep thinking it would be nice to have some structure to our Saturday mornings, and it might be nice to add a few things to our Sunday Family Time} Then the rest of your dividers are labeled 1-31. Then a last one will be labeled cards, if you are planing on storing your recipe cards in your box. I will not, I keep a large stack of these in our learning area, we use them for all kids of things.

So you take your weeks memory work, and you store it in the current divider in your file box. For us, this works great, because we do our school time in our basement family room, where I keep the file box. Then during lunch, and most dinnertimes, and very few but some breakfast times, we recite our memory work from a wipe off board by our dining room table. The memory work is written nicely by the dinning room table, this is usually where the kids go to copy it to their journals, and then we can also recite it in the mornings during our morning family devotionals, from the file box.

The next week, you will write the new weeks memory work on new cards, and take the old weeks and place them back 2 dividers, dividing them evenly. These are the odd and even files. Then every day you will pull out the odd or even cards..sometime during the day. Then the fun begins, you can recite them, or quiz them, or make up fun games re-using them.
a few ideas, might be
* you begin the phrase and stop and let someone try to do it
* simply saying who can recite, Who has seen the wind? by Christian Rossetti
* say it leaving out different words, and see if someone can fill in the blank
* play charades with the cards!!
* write it on the board and let the kids take turns filling in missing words. Ofcourse we would always start with the youngest, and let them pick the easiest words, first!
Get the idea?

Then once the cards from the odds and evens dividers seem to be well memorized, move them back to the 1 slot. This will be their finial home, until you decided to re-start the rounds with younger children!

So over time, you will be filling up your memory box... but the best part is that you will also be filling up your metal memory box, and re-using those things you want the kids to memorize over and over again... making it more meaningful!

This post has been added to Thirsty Thursdays!! Go there for many, many more helpful tips!

and that's why we don't eat sugar.....

2010-01-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Burlap pillow

2009-12-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

Here's what I made for A1... a burlap pillow! Instead of a Monogram, since all the kids are A's {it might get even more confusing!!!} I decided to use one of our favorite hymns...

"Savior Stay this night with me..."

I simply went onto a my windows works, and typed it, found a cool "boy" text, and made it the size I needed for the pillow I wanted. Then I used an exacto knife and cut out the letters, painted it and sewed! He loved it.

And A4 got a new fleece blanket. Nothing "special" there, I came up with some ideas, way too late to accomplish it before Christmas, so I am going to do one for his birthday.

His blanket was one of the no sew ones. I took fleece, two different pieces, and cut out the corners. I cut 7 inch squares off the corners, and then every one inch you cut a 7 inch strip, then simply tie together. He didn't even notice, he only got a blanket!!!!

Actually I must add a big thank you to Papa Bear, he stayed up the night before Christmas Eve and helped me cut this and tie it. BIG THANKS FOR THAT ONE, I LOVE YOU!!!

{Now I just need to remember to shoot a picture of all the gifts}

Decembers Field Trip

2009-12-22T15:53:00.000-08:00

We toured a Sushi Bar and Grill! They showed us how to make sushi, roll sushi... and explained all the ingredients. Then we tasted what we saw....YUM!!!!
Papa Bear and I are regular sushi eaters, most of the A's enjoy it too... all except A4 who kept asking when we would leave. He's usually such an eater, maybe to cut back on our grocery bill here at the house, we should start eating more sushi!!!

A6, kept asking for ham!

Wordless Weekday

2009-12-22T14:29:00.000-08:00

In the Spirit of the Season!

{Pegleg Girls}Since I know my limits.....

2009-12-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

and I am almost sure I won't be doing these for Christmas this year! I thought I'd make a quick post, to remind myself about them later. And I don't know maybe there will be someone else out there, who can do this now! I know my older daughters would love to help me do these, maybe a fun birthday gift!??!! Sorry I can't post a picture, because I haven't made them!!! Also this blog has it so you can not use her pictures. {Smart lady} I will try to explain, they are wooden very small pegleg dolls {the old fisher price kind of people} with small circle screws in the heads to make into necklaces, or you could make them into cute ornaments...okay go look at the blog, it's much cuter than I explained!

Nativity idea.

2009-12-22T06:24:00.000-08:00

We are doing these today.. check out the link here.
Check out all her great ideas, the artist woman.

Thanks Isabel, I got this from your blog.