Just for fun...cuz I'm on a roll!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Frugal Homeschooling
Some people do not homeschool simply because of the cost. While homeschool curriculum CAN cost a lot...there are SO many things you can buy, dirt cheap, and turn them into a lesson.
For Example:
I bought this pirate game at the Dollar Tree for $1.07, including tax.
For Example:
I bought this pirate game at the Dollar Tree for $1.07, including tax.
You each pick a pirate. You read the cards and follow the directions. The cards tell you how many treasure pieces to pick up or how many to throw back. They say things like, "You have great wind for sailing today, Collect a treasure piece." "You are forced to walk the plank, Divide your treasure evenly among the players." "You discover an ancient treasure map in Paradise Cove, Collect 2 treasure pieces."
You play until the treasure box is empty. Whoever has the most pieces wins. Simple.
I turned the whole thing into a learning experience. Thomas got upset when he kept having to throw his treasure back. We talked about how a pirate's life is very hard and how choosing to do evil things like stealing will bring many bad things your way. (history and character)
Judah read his cards by himself. (reading...and may I add that he can now read the words ancient, Paradise, and treasure with no probs.)
When we got finished with the game I had them sort their pieces and lay them out in a graph style. (see above pic)
Then we talked about which kind of treasure they had the most of, least of, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, etc.
After that we did a bit of Math. I would ask them things like, how many more rings would you need to equal the amount of cups you have? How many would you need to have MORE rings than cups? etc.
So we have history of Pirates, reading, and Math all rolled up into a $1.07 game that they boys enjoy playing.
Sneaky and frugal!!
Now if I were really cool like Brenda http://familyrevised.blogspot.com/2008/06/summer-theme-week-pirates.html I would have had us make pirate costumes and play the game. I'm not that cool but we still had a great time. :)
Playacting
Part of every child's education should be playacting. I remember when we made Pilgrim and Indian hats in Kindergarten and donned them for our Thanksgiving party. :)
Now, being the creative actress I am, I love this kind of stuff. Playacting is even more fun for people like me but most children love to playact and the benefits of learning through play are huge.
So, Judah and Gideon and I were at Bargain Foods yesterday for our monthly grocery run. We were in the Misc aisle when I spotted these...
Since we are studying the explorers, and soon the Pilgrims, I thought it would be great to get a few and then pretend that we were explorers who landed in a New World and had to build forts and houses. :)
I saw the price on one $19.95 and sighed. They would all just have to take turns and share one fort. Then, as I placed the box into the cart I saw another price tag $4.99. Wahooo! I was able to get three. 2 forts for the older boys and a house for Gideon. So, instead of $60.00, which I couldn't have swung, it cost me $15.00!! Yeah! We saved $45.00.
We colored and constructed them last night...Thomas and Judah slept in theirs...and they are still playing this morning. :)
Later I will pretend to be Squanto and we'll talk about how some of the Native Americans helped out the Pilgrims so that they would not starve. :)
During the "construction" phase of our little cardboard colony we had great talks about courage, bravery, fears, food supply, hard work, etc.
Here are a few pics of the finished products...
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Practical Schooling
I am not an unschooler. We do written book work, as well as normal life things...however, I DO believe that school is everywhere and that making thing relevant for them really enhances learning. :)
This is what a day of "practical life" school looks like.
So by now you've read the 101 and the 102nd reasons to homeschool. (Oh, you didn't...well scroll down and get caught up.)
I'm showcasing this one today-
47. Because we can arrange our school day around doctor appointments and not have to worry about it.
I took the boys to the DR today. At their pediatrician's office they don't usually have to wait. Today, though it was a bit of one. We worked on character the whole time. Listening, obeying, playing QUIETLY so that we didn't disturb the other patients or the staff, not climbing on chairs but sitting on them because we want to think of others and not get dirt on their clothes...things like that. :)
Then Thomas and Gideon had to take tests. They were the tests that the DR uses to see if they are up to their age level...colors, animals, sounds, questions like, "What is a cup?" "what do you do if you are cold?"...so we have categorizing, reading comprehension...oh and seeing if you can jump- physical education.
Then they came back to be weighed and measured. After that Judah and Thomas each had to take an eye test...Since Judah was looking at letters we can call that reading/grammar...since Thomas was looking at shapes we can call that- Math. :)
We had to wait a bit for the DR. The boys found a really cool book about butterflies...Science
Then the DR came in and did some muscle tests, checked their heart, eyes, throat, ears, etc...what does a DR do boys? -Career day. :)
The DR got called out of the room for a phone call. Waiting patiently practice!! - Character
We had to wait a bit for the nurse to come back with the shots.
We selectively immunize and don't allow more than 2 shots per child per visit. :)
While we were waiting we had time to read the butterfly book again. This time Judah read it. - Science review, Reading
and a really great book about dinosaurs- Science.
(since we are currently studying fossils in Science the dino one was super great!!)
Each boy got 2 shots. After that we got into the van to run some errands.
Me- Boys how many shots did we get if we add them all together...let's count by 2s.
Us- 2, 4, 6
Me- GREAT!!
Me- how many did you and Judah get together...2 plus 2 is-
Thomas- FOUR!
Me- Judah how many did you and Gideon get together?
Judah- FOUR!
Me- now add 2+2+2
Judah- 6
Me- GREAT!!
Math!
I got them each a soft pretzel at the coffee shop each one was around 2 dollars- we went through that whole scenario again but this time with pretzels instead of shots. :)- More Math
I also got a doughnut for us to share. A REALLY yummy, french creme filled long doughnut with chocolate frosting, and vanilla frosting on top in a pretty swirl...It was a beautiful thing. :)
Each of us had 3 bites.
As we pulled away I said this...
Me- Each of us had three bites right?
J and T- yes
Me- how many bites did we have all together?...Let's build it...Thomas let's add yours and Gideon's together. What's 3+3?
T- (with some visual help) SIX!
Me- RIGHT!!
Me- Now Judah let's add yours to theirs. What's 6+3?
J- NINE!!
Me- RIGHT!!!
Me- Now add mine to everyone else's. What's 9+3?
Judah- Twelve!!!
Me- Good job!! So there were twelve bites all together. So did each of us have 3/12?
Judah- YES!!!
Math again!
Me- And that boys, is school. :)
Did I count this morning as school?- I absolutely did.
It was relevant to their lives. They learned a lot today!!
Practical schooling is the BEST!!
Blessings!-
Angela :)
This is what a day of "practical life" school looks like.
So by now you've read the 101 and the 102nd reasons to homeschool. (Oh, you didn't...well scroll down and get caught up.)
I'm showcasing this one today-
47. Because we can arrange our school day around doctor appointments and not have to worry about it.
I took the boys to the DR today. At their pediatrician's office they don't usually have to wait. Today, though it was a bit of one. We worked on character the whole time. Listening, obeying, playing QUIETLY so that we didn't disturb the other patients or the staff, not climbing on chairs but sitting on them because we want to think of others and not get dirt on their clothes...things like that. :)
Then Thomas and Gideon had to take tests. They were the tests that the DR uses to see if they are up to their age level...colors, animals, sounds, questions like, "What is a cup?" "what do you do if you are cold?"...so we have categorizing, reading comprehension...oh and seeing if you can jump- physical education.
Then they came back to be weighed and measured. After that Judah and Thomas each had to take an eye test...Since Judah was looking at letters we can call that reading/grammar...since Thomas was looking at shapes we can call that- Math. :)
We had to wait a bit for the DR. The boys found a really cool book about butterflies...Science
Then the DR came in and did some muscle tests, checked their heart, eyes, throat, ears, etc...what does a DR do boys? -Career day. :)
The DR got called out of the room for a phone call. Waiting patiently practice!! - Character
We had to wait a bit for the nurse to come back with the shots.
We selectively immunize and don't allow more than 2 shots per child per visit. :)
While we were waiting we had time to read the butterfly book again. This time Judah read it. - Science review, Reading
and a really great book about dinosaurs- Science.
(since we are currently studying fossils in Science the dino one was super great!!)
Each boy got 2 shots. After that we got into the van to run some errands.
Me- Boys how many shots did we get if we add them all together...let's count by 2s.
Us- 2, 4, 6
Me- GREAT!!
Me- how many did you and Judah get together...2 plus 2 is-
Thomas- FOUR!
Me- Judah how many did you and Gideon get together?
Judah- FOUR!
Me- now add 2+2+2
Judah- 6
Me- GREAT!!
Math!
I got them each a soft pretzel at the coffee shop each one was around 2 dollars- we went through that whole scenario again but this time with pretzels instead of shots. :)- More Math
I also got a doughnut for us to share. A REALLY yummy, french creme filled long doughnut with chocolate frosting, and vanilla frosting on top in a pretty swirl...It was a beautiful thing. :)
Each of us had 3 bites.
As we pulled away I said this...
Me- Each of us had three bites right?
J and T- yes
Me- how many bites did we have all together?...Let's build it...Thomas let's add yours and Gideon's together. What's 3+3?
T- (with some visual help) SIX!
Me- RIGHT!!
Me- Now Judah let's add yours to theirs. What's 6+3?
J- NINE!!
Me- RIGHT!!!
Me- Now add mine to everyone else's. What's 9+3?
Judah- Twelve!!!
Me- Good job!! So there were twelve bites all together. So did each of us have 3/12?
Judah- YES!!!
Math again!
Me- And that boys, is school. :)
Did I count this morning as school?- I absolutely did.
It was relevant to their lives. They learned a lot today!!
Practical schooling is the BEST!!
Blessings!-
Angela :)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
101 Reasons to Homeschool
Awhile back, I titled one of my posts Reason to Homeschool #975. (or something like that) One of my friends teasingly wrote that she wanted to know the other 974 reasons. LOL
So, I enlisted some help...I got a few of my friends to help me and together we wrote this...
By the way...just to restate this AGAIN..I'm not personally saying that it's a sin to send your kids to public school. It's just not wise IMHO. :) If you choose to send your kids I will still love you, support you, etc. I'm just saying what I think...because it's my blog. Now...for your enjoyment.
First off, let me just give you a link to Ginger's blog. When I read this 6 months ago I found myself nodding to pretty much everything that she said.
Ok so Ginger wrote the first 20...here are the rest...
21. because we can talk about Him and pray to Him without breaking the rules.
22. because I enjoy being with my children.
23. because I get to hear all they're funny little sayings.
24. because KNOW what they are learning.
25. because they will not be exposed to immorality, drug culture and other negative influences I was exposed to in school.
26. because I could spank the bully (if we had one).
27. because my time with them will be over so fast, I want to be there for every moment.
28. because I can provide them with excellent education.
29. Because I want my children to love the sinner, not the sin, and not learn that some sin is ok now.
30. Because the average amount of individual teacher attention the average ps child gets in a day is 3 minutes.
31. Because I want to keep all the awesome new crayons, markers , etc at home so I can color too!
32. Because it takes 2 parents to raise my children not a village.
33. Because Jesus stayed behind at the temple without his parents when he was 12 not 5...or 3
34. Because I LIKE my kids.
35. Because we have fun together.
36. Because I want to learn everything too!
37. Because I want my kids to love learning and not be embarrassed because of it.
38. Because I want my kids to spend more time at home with family than with a bunch of strangers.
39. Because I want an excuse to have my very own library. lol
40. Because I want a personalized education for each of my children.
41. Because I love my kids and enjoy having them around!
42. Because we're training our kids to be missionaries and even the local Christian school does not have that emphasis, much less the public schools.
43. Because we can tailor our curriculum and even teaching style to the individual learning styles of our kids.
44. Because public schools or even parochial schools might label one of our kids, who is very high-spirited, a Behavior Disorder kid.
45. Because if we want to focus only on reading, writing, math, science, and the Bible, we can.
46. Because if we want to follow the Spirit and have an hour-and-a-half devotional or praise & worship time during our school day, we can.
47. Because we can arrange our school day around doctor appointments and not have to worry about it.
48. Because we have total control over what we teach our kids.
49. Because it is a freedom and the best way to keep a freedom is to use it.
50. Because I have a lot more time and experience in figuring out my child's learning style than an overworked teacher does.
51. Because I've been around my child since they were born I know how they think.
52. Because I'm teaching them from day one all about everything, not just when they get to be 5 or 6 and "ready" for school.
53. Because I want my kids to confide in me about their deepest thoughts, dream, and desires. Not their best friend at school, or the school counselor, or their favorite teacher.
54. Because I want to be their favorite teacher
55. Because I don't want my children growing up in the "plastic" public school environment that truthfully is NOT like real life.
56. Because I want them to be raised in a REAL environment that will prepare them for REAL life ie: everyday experiences, real interactions with people etc.
57. Because I want to teach them more than just the "three r's". I want my girls prepared to be keepers of their homes, and my boys to be awesome providers and good fixers.
58. Because I want God to be a part of ALL they do!
59. Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
60. Because my ADHD RAD child is a completely different child when she is with me all the time and being trained by me consistently
61. Because I want my kids to know the Bible better than they know any other book and since they are home with me we can focus everything around the Bible.
62. Because I want my kids to know that boys and girls are different!
63. Because I don't want my kids to be self centered and "me" oriented.
64. Because I want God to shape their/our world view, not the government.
65. Because I want to be the one (my dh and I) to teach my kids what I know about Jesus and the Bible, as opposed to a "friend" at public school teaching them about "spirit guides" and wic*a etc.
66. Because I want more for my kids than just worldy wisdom or being book smart. They can learn that anywhere. My desire is for them to be followers of the Author of Life! I'd rather have a child that didn't know how to read but was sold out for Jesus than one that could read at college level at 9 and lived life for himself.
67. Because in ps you cant move a child to the next grade simply because they are ready to do the work. If they are having a hard time with the work they are likely to get labeled instead of someone sticking with them till they get it.
68. I want to spend our evenings having fun instead if re-training.
69. I want my kids to be friends with each other.
70. Character training.
71. I get to buy school supplies at a discount because I am a teacher.
72. Instead of hearing about their day, I can experience their day with them.
73. To find their passions and find studies that fan those flames.
74. Because families were meant to be together, not go in different directions for most of the day.
75. Because my child doesn't have to wait to go to the bathroom.
76. I have all BOYS and little boys aren't made to sit still at a desk all day.
77. If my boys are hungry they don't have to wait till lunch.
78. If they need a brain freeze break we can put on music and dance together.
79. Closer siblings
80. I get to cheer for my kids every time they do well.
81. They get to cheer for each other every time they do well.
82. NOBODY makes fun of them for NOT doing well...or else.
83. I get to spend time with my kids and hear the great answers they give me to questions.
84. Since there is no peer pressure they like everything about themselves. They accept that their bodies, personalities, tastes, etc. are God given and then LIKE it that way.
85. We can spend all day in our pjs if we want.
86. We can spend all day outside if we want.
87. We can learn by doing. That's hard to do with a classroom full.
88. We can do our reading on the couch, or bed, or pallet, or blanket on the lawn, or...
89. We can volunteer in our community or participate in activities without it making our evenings hectic trying to get homework done.
90. If church runs late on Wednesday we don't have to worry that it will be rough for Thursday morning. We'll just sleep in if we need to or take a nap the next day.
91. Because I want my kids to be one another's best friends
92. Because we can spend 5 months out of the year at the beach and call it a unit study.
93. Because we can go to the zoo during the day when no one is there.
94. Because my kids think going to the library is the "funnest"!
95. Because when they were at school all day they thought their teacher was the coolest and smartest and most beautiful, now they think those things about me...sometimes!:)
96. Don’t need new school clothes.
97. Kids are grateful for the supplies they get cuz they are not busy comparing theirs to everyone else’s.
98. Family spirit is more fun than school spirit!!
99. More practical life skills time (like chores, cooking, cleaning, etc.)
100. NO HOMEWORK!!!
And, in case you are still confused…
101. This
(Click on "in the news")
ought to at least make you think. :)
So, I enlisted some help...I got a few of my friends to help me and together we wrote this...
By the way...just to restate this AGAIN..I'm not personally saying that it's a sin to send your kids to public school. It's just not wise IMHO. :) If you choose to send your kids I will still love you, support you, etc. I'm just saying what I think...because it's my blog. Now...for your enjoyment.
First off, let me just give you a link to Ginger's blog. When I read this 6 months ago I found myself nodding to pretty much everything that she said.
Ok so Ginger wrote the first 20...here are the rest...
21. because we can talk about Him and pray to Him without breaking the rules.
22. because I enjoy being with my children.
23. because I get to hear all they're funny little sayings.
24. because KNOW what they are learning.
25. because they will not be exposed to immorality, drug culture and other negative influences I was exposed to in school.
26. because I could spank the bully (if we had one).
27. because my time with them will be over so fast, I want to be there for every moment.
28. because I can provide them with excellent education.
29. Because I want my children to love the sinner, not the sin, and not learn that some sin is ok now.
30. Because the average amount of individual teacher attention the average ps child gets in a day is 3 minutes.
31. Because I want to keep all the awesome new crayons, markers , etc at home so I can color too!
32. Because it takes 2 parents to raise my children not a village.
33. Because Jesus stayed behind at the temple without his parents when he was 12 not 5...or 3
34. Because I LIKE my kids.
35. Because we have fun together.
36. Because I want to learn everything too!
37. Because I want my kids to love learning and not be embarrassed because of it.
38. Because I want my kids to spend more time at home with family than with a bunch of strangers.
39. Because I want an excuse to have my very own library. lol
40. Because I want a personalized education for each of my children.
41. Because I love my kids and enjoy having them around!
42. Because we're training our kids to be missionaries and even the local Christian school does not have that emphasis, much less the public schools.
43. Because we can tailor our curriculum and even teaching style to the individual learning styles of our kids.
44. Because public schools or even parochial schools might label one of our kids, who is very high-spirited, a Behavior Disorder kid.
45. Because if we want to focus only on reading, writing, math, science, and the Bible, we can.
46. Because if we want to follow the Spirit and have an hour-and-a-half devotional or praise & worship time during our school day, we can.
47. Because we can arrange our school day around doctor appointments and not have to worry about it.
48. Because we have total control over what we teach our kids.
49. Because it is a freedom and the best way to keep a freedom is to use it.
50. Because I have a lot more time and experience in figuring out my child's learning style than an overworked teacher does.
51. Because I've been around my child since they were born I know how they think.
52. Because I'm teaching them from day one all about everything, not just when they get to be 5 or 6 and "ready" for school.
53. Because I want my kids to confide in me about their deepest thoughts, dream, and desires. Not their best friend at school, or the school counselor, or their favorite teacher.
54. Because I want to be their favorite teacher
55. Because I don't want my children growing up in the "plastic" public school environment that truthfully is NOT like real life.
56. Because I want them to be raised in a REAL environment that will prepare them for REAL life ie: everyday experiences, real interactions with people etc.
57. Because I want to teach them more than just the "three r's". I want my girls prepared to be keepers of their homes, and my boys to be awesome providers and good fixers.
58. Because I want God to be a part of ALL they do!
59. Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
60. Because my ADHD RAD child is a completely different child when she is with me all the time and being trained by me consistently
61. Because I want my kids to know the Bible better than they know any other book and since they are home with me we can focus everything around the Bible.
62. Because I want my kids to know that boys and girls are different!
63. Because I don't want my kids to be self centered and "me" oriented.
64. Because I want God to shape their/our world view, not the government.
65. Because I want to be the one (my dh and I) to teach my kids what I know about Jesus and the Bible, as opposed to a "friend" at public school teaching them about "spirit guides" and wic*a etc.
66. Because I want more for my kids than just worldy wisdom or being book smart. They can learn that anywhere. My desire is for them to be followers of the Author of Life! I'd rather have a child that didn't know how to read but was sold out for Jesus than one that could read at college level at 9 and lived life for himself.
67. Because in ps you cant move a child to the next grade simply because they are ready to do the work. If they are having a hard time with the work they are likely to get labeled instead of someone sticking with them till they get it.
68. I want to spend our evenings having fun instead if re-training.
69. I want my kids to be friends with each other.
70. Character training.
71. I get to buy school supplies at a discount because I am a teacher.
72. Instead of hearing about their day, I can experience their day with them.
73. To find their passions and find studies that fan those flames.
74. Because families were meant to be together, not go in different directions for most of the day.
75. Because my child doesn't have to wait to go to the bathroom.
76. I have all BOYS and little boys aren't made to sit still at a desk all day.
77. If my boys are hungry they don't have to wait till lunch.
78. If they need a brain freeze break we can put on music and dance together.
79. Closer siblings
80. I get to cheer for my kids every time they do well.
81. They get to cheer for each other every time they do well.
82. NOBODY makes fun of them for NOT doing well...or else.
83. I get to spend time with my kids and hear the great answers they give me to questions.
84. Since there is no peer pressure they like everything about themselves. They accept that their bodies, personalities, tastes, etc. are God given and then LIKE it that way.
85. We can spend all day in our pjs if we want.
86. We can spend all day outside if we want.
87. We can learn by doing. That's hard to do with a classroom full.
88. We can do our reading on the couch, or bed, or pallet, or blanket on the lawn, or...
89. We can volunteer in our community or participate in activities without it making our evenings hectic trying to get homework done.
90. If church runs late on Wednesday we don't have to worry that it will be rough for Thursday morning. We'll just sleep in if we need to or take a nap the next day.
91. Because I want my kids to be one another's best friends
92. Because we can spend 5 months out of the year at the beach and call it a unit study.
93. Because we can go to the zoo during the day when no one is there.
94. Because my kids think going to the library is the "funnest"!
95. Because when they were at school all day they thought their teacher was the coolest and smartest and most beautiful, now they think those things about me...sometimes!:)
96. Don’t need new school clothes.
97. Kids are grateful for the supplies they get cuz they are not busy comparing theirs to everyone else’s.
98. Family spirit is more fun than school spirit!!
99. More practical life skills time (like chores, cooking, cleaning, etc.)
100. NO HOMEWORK!!!
And, in case you are still confused…
101. This
(Click on "in the news")
ought to at least make you think. :)
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Sad but true
I totally loved this post that I am going to link you to. It's a new blog so I thought she'd like some traffic. Plus, the post is completely on the money. Enjoy! You can find it Here
Friday, August 22, 2008
I Was Put In Check
BY MY 5 YEAR OLD!!!!
"Listen" to this folks...
Yesterday Gideon, who is 2 1/2 and was still in a crib, decided that he wanted to sleep in big brother's bed for naptime. Daddy authorized this deal much to my irritation. I just knew that I would have to outlast him to get him to stay there. Well, I was reading to Thomas in my room. Gideon tried to come down but Michael ambushed him on the stairs, corrected him, and sent him to bed. (then Daddy went back to work) I finished the story and went to see why it was quiet in the boys' room. SHOCK! Gideon was fast asleep. (Peaceful sigh)
So, after his nap I asked him if he was ready for his big boy bed. He got SO excited. We set it up and I realized that he didn't have matching sheets or a matching comforter like the big boys do. So, I proceeded to search on Ebay. Judah and Thoms came in to watch and Gid was on my lap. Judah said that he wanted a new one too. I understand the desire to change the look in a room so I said that we would keep the paint color and then try to find matching bed in a bag sets. Well, all the sets were too expensive for 3, plus, nobody agreed on what they really wanted. (well not the cheaper ones anyway) Gideon kept pointing to ones he liked and Judah kept saying "I don't like that one."
Finally, Thomas looked at Judah and said kindly but firmly, "Judah! Mommy is buying things for Gideon's bed. She is NOT buying things for our beds. We already have some upstairs. We don't need to buy things when we already have some. Mommy is buying us a toy at the Dollar Store tomorrow. This is for Gideon."
I was suddenly slapped back into reality. I said something like, "Good point Thomas." And that was that.
Well, for that day...I did buy them matching ones on sale at K-Mart a week or so later. :)
Just Keepin IT REAL!!! :D
Visit BRENDA for more Keepin' It Real Fun! :)
"Listen" to this folks...
Yesterday Gideon, who is 2 1/2 and was still in a crib, decided that he wanted to sleep in big brother's bed for naptime. Daddy authorized this deal much to my irritation. I just knew that I would have to outlast him to get him to stay there. Well, I was reading to Thomas in my room. Gideon tried to come down but Michael ambushed him on the stairs, corrected him, and sent him to bed. (then Daddy went back to work) I finished the story and went to see why it was quiet in the boys' room. SHOCK! Gideon was fast asleep. (Peaceful sigh)
So, after his nap I asked him if he was ready for his big boy bed. He got SO excited. We set it up and I realized that he didn't have matching sheets or a matching comforter like the big boys do. So, I proceeded to search on Ebay. Judah and Thoms came in to watch and Gid was on my lap. Judah said that he wanted a new one too. I understand the desire to change the look in a room so I said that we would keep the paint color and then try to find matching bed in a bag sets. Well, all the sets were too expensive for 3, plus, nobody agreed on what they really wanted. (well not the cheaper ones anyway) Gideon kept pointing to ones he liked and Judah kept saying "I don't like that one."
Finally, Thomas looked at Judah and said kindly but firmly, "Judah! Mommy is buying things for Gideon's bed. She is NOT buying things for our beds. We already have some upstairs. We don't need to buy things when we already have some. Mommy is buying us a toy at the Dollar Store tomorrow. This is for Gideon."
I was suddenly slapped back into reality. I said something like, "Good point Thomas." And that was that.
Well, for that day...I did buy them matching ones on sale at K-Mart a week or so later. :)
Just Keepin IT REAL!!! :D
Visit BRENDA for more Keepin' It Real Fun! :)
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Really?!
Ok, this is a "tad" sarcastic...Ok to be honest this is riddled with sarcasm....
I read this article on Yahoo this morning.
Did anyone REALLY think, even for 2 seconds, that purchasing a corn dog at the fair was a HEALTHY option? Seriously? Did we really NEED this information? Are we that blind as Americans? Don't answer that!
My favorite part was the comments...
Did you read the comments after the article?
This was my favorite one:
"Well I don't usually go to the mainstream parks like Six Flags and such, but I am an annual visitor to the state fair. I usually get a corndog for the convenience but now I won't seeing this. And it's good to know that Dippin' Dots is an alternative. I love their chocolate dots."
Okay apparently this article was good for someone. LOL
Have a great weekend y'all!
Blessings!- Angela :)
I read this article on Yahoo this morning.
Did anyone REALLY think, even for 2 seconds, that purchasing a corn dog at the fair was a HEALTHY option? Seriously? Did we really NEED this information? Are we that blind as Americans? Don't answer that!
My favorite part was the comments...
Did you read the comments after the article?
This was my favorite one:
"Well I don't usually go to the mainstream parks like Six Flags and such, but I am an annual visitor to the state fair. I usually get a corndog for the convenience but now I won't seeing this. And it's good to know that Dippin' Dots is an alternative. I love their chocolate dots."
Okay apparently this article was good for someone. LOL
Have a great weekend y'all!
Blessings!- Angela :)
Friday, August 15, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
OOPS!
I forgot a few things when I did this post yesterday. So I'm filling in the gaps.
Well we are almost finished with the 2nd week of school for this year. We haven't hit any major stumbling blocks so I'm going to lay out what we are using for Curriculum and also our schedule.
This year Thomas is in 1st grade for Reading/Grammar and also for Math. He will do 2nd grade work in Science, Social Studies, and History.
This year Judah is in the 2nd grade for Reading/Grammar and also for Math, Science, Social Studies, and History.
We also do art projects. In the winter I try to do them once or twice a week.
I absolutely count cooking and shopping as school. So you can add Home Ec and Economics to the lineup as well. ;)
The base Curriculum this year is a GODSEND. I cannot say enough about it. Truly.
It's called A2. You can read about it
HERE.
This is the first curric. that Michael and I have ever BOTH loved. We knew it was a keeper. See, we're both old school. We want a meaty education for our boys with lots and lots of reading. We also want them to understand our country. The beauty of this curr. is that it is only $99.00 for K-12!!! WOWOWOWOWOWOW!!!! You do have to supplement a Science every year and possibly a Math but the rest is right there. Happy sigh.
So that's the base.
We start every school morning with a reading from this devotional:
I despise the devotionals that are obviously taking verses out of context to "go with" the story. This one takes the passage and bases the devotional on that. It's more geared towards boys but definitely could be used in mixed company (IMO) because we are all called to be warriors for God.
The boys also do writing three times a week. I am not currently using a curr. for that because I feel like I can teach my boys to print beautifully on their own. So far, they have pretty good writing for their ages.
I decided to go with a separate Math Curr. because I am not very skilled in that area. I needed one that would help me teach and one that would KEEP MY BOYS INTEREST. Michael didn't like Math U See. I tried Saxon last year and, while it was a pretty good program, it was really boring. So this year we are using this:
For Judah's Math, the next Level Up:
The Math Curr. is not my favorite organizational wise but it has bright pics and the kids like it. I will definitely have to get some flash cards to use on the side for their 1+1=2, 1+2=3, etc.
Thomas needed something different for Reading. His learning style is more hands on/auditory...so, for him, I got
For Science We are using Bob Jones University Second Grade Science and I LOVE it!!! They have so many hands on projects. For my artistic children it's like combining art and Science.
This is just for fun. History is in the A2 but I wanted a bit more book fun. The kids like doing books.
For Art I ordered THIS!
I can dream up lots and lots of fun things for us to do together. Or I can look some up on the internet and be pretty sure to have enough supplies to do them with. LOL
We are putting a Crockpot cookbook together this year too. I want them to be able to survive as bachelors and impress ladies in the VERY VERY FAAAAAAR future. :)
Our schedule looks basically like this: (This is only a rough estimate however, some days take longer, some not, etc. This also doesn't include all the teachable moments throughout the day.)
Monday:
1/2 hour reading/grammar with Judah while Thomas plays quietly.
1/2 hour reading/grammar with Thomas while Judah plays quietly.
1/2 hour Math with Judah while Thomas does Starfall.com
1/2 hour Math with Thomas while Judah does Starfall.com
Writing- 15 minutes-1/2 hour together
Spelling- Judah only
Tuesday:
Science
Social Studies
Art
All of those are done together!! Yeah!
Wednesday:
Same Reading and Math Schedule
Spelling for Judah
Writing for both
Thursday:
Science
History
Art
All together again!!
Friday:
Read, Math, Spelling, and writing again
Chores that are done together as much as possible are:
Monday: dust and vacuum, Laundry
Tuesday: Laundry
Wednesday: Sweep and mop Entryway, dining room, kitchen, and laundry room
Thursday: catch up day with chores
Friday: bathrooms
What does Gideon do during school you ask?
Sits at the table with us and colors, "draws", plays quietly in the adjacent living room, sits in my lap etc. (on a good day that is-wink wink)
Today he joined us at the table for most of it and had a blast making homemade playdough with us and then using it to make imprints, casts, and molds for our Science lesson.
If anyone has any questions please feel free to ask. Have a blessed day!! -Angela :)
Well we are almost finished with the 2nd week of school for this year. We haven't hit any major stumbling blocks so I'm going to lay out what we are using for Curriculum and also our schedule.
This year Thomas is in 1st grade for Reading/Grammar and also for Math. He will do 2nd grade work in Science, Social Studies, and History.
This year Judah is in the 2nd grade for Reading/Grammar and also for Math, Science, Social Studies, and History.
We also do art projects. In the winter I try to do them once or twice a week.
I absolutely count cooking and shopping as school. So you can add Home Ec and Economics to the lineup as well. ;)
The base Curriculum this year is a GODSEND. I cannot say enough about it. Truly.
It's called A2. You can read about it
HERE.
This is the first curric. that Michael and I have ever BOTH loved. We knew it was a keeper. See, we're both old school. We want a meaty education for our boys with lots and lots of reading. We also want them to understand our country. The beauty of this curr. is that it is only $99.00 for K-12!!! WOWOWOWOWOWOW!!!! You do have to supplement a Science every year and possibly a Math but the rest is right there. Happy sigh.
So that's the base.
We start every school morning with a reading from this devotional:
I despise the devotionals that are obviously taking verses out of context to "go with" the story. This one takes the passage and bases the devotional on that. It's more geared towards boys but definitely could be used in mixed company (IMO) because we are all called to be warriors for God.
The boys also do writing three times a week. I am not currently using a curr. for that because I feel like I can teach my boys to print beautifully on their own. So far, they have pretty good writing for their ages.
I decided to go with a separate Math Curr. because I am not very skilled in that area. I needed one that would help me teach and one that would KEEP MY BOYS INTEREST. Michael didn't like Math U See. I tried Saxon last year and, while it was a pretty good program, it was really boring. So this year we are using this:
For Judah's Math, the next Level Up:
The Math Curr. is not my favorite organizational wise but it has bright pics and the kids like it. I will definitely have to get some flash cards to use on the side for their 1+1=2, 1+2=3, etc.
Thomas needed something different for Reading. His learning style is more hands on/auditory...so, for him, I got
For Science We are using Bob Jones University Second Grade Science and I LOVE it!!! They have so many hands on projects. For my artistic children it's like combining art and Science.
This is just for fun. History is in the A2 but I wanted a bit more book fun. The kids like doing books.
For Art I ordered THIS!
I can dream up lots and lots of fun things for us to do together. Or I can look some up on the internet and be pretty sure to have enough supplies to do them with. LOL
We are putting a Crockpot cookbook together this year too. I want them to be able to survive as bachelors and impress ladies in the VERY VERY FAAAAAAR future. :)
Our schedule looks basically like this: (This is only a rough estimate however, some days take longer, some not, etc. This also doesn't include all the teachable moments throughout the day.)
Monday:
1/2 hour reading/grammar with Judah while Thomas plays quietly.
1/2 hour reading/grammar with Thomas while Judah plays quietly.
1/2 hour Math with Judah while Thomas does Starfall.com
1/2 hour Math with Thomas while Judah does Starfall.com
Writing- 15 minutes-1/2 hour together
Spelling- Judah only
Tuesday:
Science
Social Studies
Art
All of those are done together!! Yeah!
Wednesday:
Same Reading and Math Schedule
Spelling for Judah
Writing for both
Thursday:
Science
History
Art
All together again!!
Friday:
Read, Math, Spelling, and writing again
Chores that are done together as much as possible are:
Monday: dust and vacuum, Laundry
Tuesday: Laundry
Wednesday: Sweep and mop Entryway, dining room, kitchen, and laundry room
Thursday: catch up day with chores
Friday: bathrooms
What does Gideon do during school you ask?
Sits at the table with us and colors, "draws", plays quietly in the adjacent living room, sits in my lap etc. (on a good day that is-wink wink)
Today he joined us at the table for most of it and had a blast making homemade playdough with us and then using it to make imprints, casts, and molds for our Science lesson.
If anyone has any questions please feel free to ask. Have a blessed day!! -Angela :)
Monday, August 11, 2008
Advertisement for Tomato Staking!
Mothers and Fathers, ever wonder why you should tomato stake your children?
Because, if you don't, THIS could happen...
Because, if you don't, THIS could happen...
Child Training Pill
Our society wants to see instant results. We also want to take a lot of shortcuts. Diet pills are a good example. Many people are looking for ANYTHING that will get them a "free pass" so to speak. They don't want to eat less. They don't want to exercise. "Just let me take a pill that will melt away the fat WHILE I CONTINUE TO DO WHATEVER I WANT TO!" I, personally, have always balked at diet pills. I think they are ridiculous for the most part. I'm sure that there are a handful of people who benefit from them but for the general public...no. You HAVE to learn to eat right and exercise for continued health and weight control.
Today I was thinking about the area of child rearing in my life. I have often wanted a "child training pill" ,so to speak, that I could feed to my children. They would become well trained and I could still be free to: let things slide, be inconsistent, live how I want, have more time to myself; etc. etc. etc.
It just doesn't work that way. We HAVE to change that line of thinking when it comes to our children. Discipleship and training are INVESTMENTS. They pay huge dividends in our children's lives. They also make us look at the junk in our own. We HAVE to be willing to do the work if we want a nice result. :) We cannot haphazardly parent if we want well trained children. We also have to pray pray pray. Pray for ourselves and also pray for our kids' hearts. No amount of child training will make them holy. It will only make them well trained and as a result they will be able to obey God/authority better. God is the one who can change a person's heart.
I am in NO WAY saying that I have arrived in child training. God shows me every day where I am falling short or when I'm wanting the "child training pill". It's a journey but I don't want to become stagnant. I want to keep growing in motherhood and hopefully improve both my life and the lives of my precious blessings. :)
Today I was thinking about the area of child rearing in my life. I have often wanted a "child training pill" ,so to speak, that I could feed to my children. They would become well trained and I could still be free to: let things slide, be inconsistent, live how I want, have more time to myself; etc. etc. etc.
It just doesn't work that way. We HAVE to change that line of thinking when it comes to our children. Discipleship and training are INVESTMENTS. They pay huge dividends in our children's lives. They also make us look at the junk in our own. We HAVE to be willing to do the work if we want a nice result. :) We cannot haphazardly parent if we want well trained children. We also have to pray pray pray. Pray for ourselves and also pray for our kids' hearts. No amount of child training will make them holy. It will only make them well trained and as a result they will be able to obey God/authority better. God is the one who can change a person's heart.
I am in NO WAY saying that I have arrived in child training. God shows me every day where I am falling short or when I'm wanting the "child training pill". It's a journey but I don't want to become stagnant. I want to keep growing in motherhood and hopefully improve both my life and the lives of my precious blessings. :)
Friday, August 8, 2008
SO Funny!
Thomas is such a character! They all are but lately Thomas has been really cracking me up. Today, for the first time, he got stung by a hornet. After he finished shrieking and crying (in his defense it WAS one of the HUGE 2 inch ones and it stung him on the scalp) he went into the living room to play with his brothers. Later, he told me that it still hurt. I told him that it would. He said that he was going to shoot all the hornets in the tree. Then, he reconsidered and asked, "Mommy, is a hornet one of God's creatures?" I told him that is was. He paused for a long moment and said, "I don't think so. I think it's one of Satan's creatures." I LOL and told him that it really was God's creature. He looked at me and said ever so seriously, "No. It's one of Satan's. God told me."
ROFL!!
ROFL!!
He's such a BOY!
Today I came upon Judah and Thomas. They were squatting over something in the drive. Thomas had his plastic dart gun (you know, the kind with the suction tips on the ends of the "darts") and he was aiming at something. I got closer and noticed that it was a HUGE beetle. Probably at least an inch long and 1/3 of an inch wide. All of a sudden..."POW!" He shot the dart at the bug and knocked him over. It was HILARIOUS!!! I definitely LOL...all the way down the driveway. :)
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Unexplained Absence
To those of you who took the time to email me during my absence- Thank-you! I really appreciated it. :)
The trip to Ohio was short and a bit tiring. My dad had to stay in the hospital longer than he's first thought. However, the good news is that the DR is sure that he got all of the tumor in the bladder. It was cancer. The second operation (for another known cancer) will be in September. Thanks to all of you who prayed. Keep praying. :)
Pneumonia is really hard to recover from when you can't rest as much as you should. :) Thankfully that seems to be finally going away as well. (After 4 weeks and 2 rounds of antibiotics) Michael did try to let me rest more but things kept coming up with the business. He did give a a few weekends where he watched the boys a lot. I was really grateful. I got on a message board several months ago but hadn't posted much because normally I'm really busy. During the rest period I got to know SO many amazing people via the board. :) It was a tremendous blessing in my life.
Other happenings:
The first day of homeschool for us this year started August 4th. The boys BEGGED to start then. We have only been "off" for 6 weeks. I was planning on going another month but they REALLY were SALIVATING over their new supplies. Judah was salivating over the new books and Thomas was salivating over the art supplies. heehee
Judah is in second grade and Thomas is in first grade this year but Thomas will be doing 2nd grade Science and Social Studies and History with Judah. :) When I see how things are going (it's only ben 4 days) I will post our new schedule for this year mostly so my family can see it. :) I want them to know we are taking this homeschooling thing seriously. ;)
I had never even thought about doing anything "special" for the first day of school. The interent is an amazing resource. Mostly my kids are just happy to be doing school. LOL I won't take special pics, etc. However, the were presented with all new supplies this year (crayons, markers, scissors, erasers, glue) and on August 14th (the official first day of PS around here) we will take a PE Field trip somewhere FUN and talk about how wonderful it is to be homeschooled!! LOL
The boys are also excited about playing football again this year. I signed them up last week. Now if I could just remember to schedule them a dentist appointment, sigh. :)
Thomas is still in flag football this year but Judah is moving up to "contact" football. heehee They have no idea what kind of linebacker they are getting. :D
That won't start till September. So we have about 4 more weeks of "How many more days till football?" SIGH. :)
NURSING UPDATE:
He still talks about nursing EVERY SINGLE DAY. However, he no longer cries or looks sad. Now it’s all about being funny and/or sneaky. Sometimes he “says” all gone and cracks up laughing. Other times he waits till I lay down, opens his mouth wide, and tries… It’s hilarious.
I’ll close with a few recent funny things the kids did/said. Enjoy!!
I WAS PUT IN CHECK - BY MY 5 YEAR OLD!!!!
"Listen" to this folks...
Yesterday Gideon, who is 2 1/2 and was still in a crib, decided that he wanted to sleep in big brother's bed for naptime. Daddy authorized this deal much to my irritation. I just knew that I would have to outlast him to get him to stay there. Well, I was reading to Thomas in my room. Gideon tried to come down but Michael ambushed him on the stairs, corrected him, and sent him to bed. (then Daddy went back to work) I finished the story and went to see why it was quiet in the boys' room. SHOCK! Gideon was fast asleep. (Peaceful sigh)
So, after his nap I asked him if he was ready for his big boy bed. He got SO excited. We set it up and I realized that he didn't have matching sheets or a matching comforter like the big boys do. So, I proceeded to search on Ebay. Judah and Thomas came in to watch and Gid was on my lap. Judah said that he wanted a new one too. I understand the desire to change the look in a room so I said that we would keep the paint color and then try to find matching bed in a bag sets. Well, all the sets were too expensive for 3, plus, nobody agreed on what they really wanted. (well not the cheaper ones anyway) Gideon kept pointing to ones he liked and Judah kept saying "I don't like that one."
Finally, Thomas looked at Judah and said kindly but firmly, "Judah! Mommy is buying things for Gideon's bed. She is NOT buying things for our beds. We already have some upstairs. We don't need to buy things when we already have some. Mommy is buying us a toy at the Dollar Store tomorrow. This is for Gideon."
I was suddenly slapped back into reality. I said something like, "Good point Thomas." And that was that.
IN THE WOMB
Thomas (who makes up all kinds of funny stories about things he supposedly did) was talking to me at naptime today.
Thomas and I were talking about death (his idea) and about being sad when people die. I was explaining that if the person knows Jesus that it can also be a celebration as well.
I used the example of my brother (who died 5 years ago). I told Thomas that I was sad because I missed him but really happy for him because he was up in Heaven having a great time.
Thomas said that he remembered hearing him play with Judah. I explained that that wasn't possible because Thomas was still in my "tummy" when Jay died. He looked at me and said, "You can hear in there. You have that belly thing remember?" He proceeded to lift up his shirt and point to his belly button. I went into gales of quiet laughter. When I had regained my composure I asked him, "So what else did you do in there?"
Thomas: Swim. I remember diving in there.
Were there toys in there Mommy?
I was practically ROFL by that time.
I SO enjoy talking to my kids.
Blessings!!
The trip to Ohio was short and a bit tiring. My dad had to stay in the hospital longer than he's first thought. However, the good news is that the DR is sure that he got all of the tumor in the bladder. It was cancer. The second operation (for another known cancer) will be in September. Thanks to all of you who prayed. Keep praying. :)
Pneumonia is really hard to recover from when you can't rest as much as you should. :) Thankfully that seems to be finally going away as well. (After 4 weeks and 2 rounds of antibiotics) Michael did try to let me rest more but things kept coming up with the business. He did give a a few weekends where he watched the boys a lot. I was really grateful. I got on a message board several months ago but hadn't posted much because normally I'm really busy. During the rest period I got to know SO many amazing people via the board. :) It was a tremendous blessing in my life.
Other happenings:
The first day of homeschool for us this year started August 4th. The boys BEGGED to start then. We have only been "off" for 6 weeks. I was planning on going another month but they REALLY were SALIVATING over their new supplies. Judah was salivating over the new books and Thomas was salivating over the art supplies. heehee
Judah is in second grade and Thomas is in first grade this year but Thomas will be doing 2nd grade Science and Social Studies and History with Judah. :) When I see how things are going (it's only ben 4 days) I will post our new schedule for this year mostly so my family can see it. :) I want them to know we are taking this homeschooling thing seriously. ;)
I had never even thought about doing anything "special" for the first day of school. The interent is an amazing resource. Mostly my kids are just happy to be doing school. LOL I won't take special pics, etc. However, the were presented with all new supplies this year (crayons, markers, scissors, erasers, glue) and on August 14th (the official first day of PS around here) we will take a PE Field trip somewhere FUN and talk about how wonderful it is to be homeschooled!! LOL
The boys are also excited about playing football again this year. I signed them up last week. Now if I could just remember to schedule them a dentist appointment, sigh. :)
Thomas is still in flag football this year but Judah is moving up to "contact" football. heehee They have no idea what kind of linebacker they are getting. :D
That won't start till September. So we have about 4 more weeks of "How many more days till football?" SIGH. :)
NURSING UPDATE:
He still talks about nursing EVERY SINGLE DAY. However, he no longer cries or looks sad. Now it’s all about being funny and/or sneaky. Sometimes he “says” all gone and cracks up laughing. Other times he waits till I lay down, opens his mouth wide, and tries… It’s hilarious.
I’ll close with a few recent funny things the kids did/said. Enjoy!!
I WAS PUT IN CHECK - BY MY 5 YEAR OLD!!!!
"Listen" to this folks...
Yesterday Gideon, who is 2 1/2 and was still in a crib, decided that he wanted to sleep in big brother's bed for naptime. Daddy authorized this deal much to my irritation. I just knew that I would have to outlast him to get him to stay there. Well, I was reading to Thomas in my room. Gideon tried to come down but Michael ambushed him on the stairs, corrected him, and sent him to bed. (then Daddy went back to work) I finished the story and went to see why it was quiet in the boys' room. SHOCK! Gideon was fast asleep. (Peaceful sigh)
So, after his nap I asked him if he was ready for his big boy bed. He got SO excited. We set it up and I realized that he didn't have matching sheets or a matching comforter like the big boys do. So, I proceeded to search on Ebay. Judah and Thomas came in to watch and Gid was on my lap. Judah said that he wanted a new one too. I understand the desire to change the look in a room so I said that we would keep the paint color and then try to find matching bed in a bag sets. Well, all the sets were too expensive for 3, plus, nobody agreed on what they really wanted. (well not the cheaper ones anyway) Gideon kept pointing to ones he liked and Judah kept saying "I don't like that one."
Finally, Thomas looked at Judah and said kindly but firmly, "Judah! Mommy is buying things for Gideon's bed. She is NOT buying things for our beds. We already have some upstairs. We don't need to buy things when we already have some. Mommy is buying us a toy at the Dollar Store tomorrow. This is for Gideon."
I was suddenly slapped back into reality. I said something like, "Good point Thomas." And that was that.
IN THE WOMB
Thomas (who makes up all kinds of funny stories about things he supposedly did) was talking to me at naptime today.
Thomas and I were talking about death (his idea) and about being sad when people die. I was explaining that if the person knows Jesus that it can also be a celebration as well.
I used the example of my brother (who died 5 years ago). I told Thomas that I was sad because I missed him but really happy for him because he was up in Heaven having a great time.
Thomas said that he remembered hearing him play with Judah. I explained that that wasn't possible because Thomas was still in my "tummy" when Jay died. He looked at me and said, "You can hear in there. You have that belly thing remember?" He proceeded to lift up his shirt and point to his belly button. I went into gales of quiet laughter. When I had regained my composure I asked him, "So what else did you do in there?"
Thomas: Swim. I remember diving in there.
Were there toys in there Mommy?
I was practically ROFL by that time.
I SO enjoy talking to my kids.
Blessings!!
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