Teaching in my Jammies

Goodbye Blog

2011-05-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

In case anyone stumbles here, I am no longer posting due to lack of readers.
I will be keeping my regular blog up and running...http://www.pressedpetals.blogspot.com/

Thanks for reading.

just checking

2011-04-14T11:48:00.001-07:00

Is anyone still reading this blog?

Just checking, because it's awful quiet here.

random

2011-04-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Son has started an art program, Draw Today from Sonlight.

He LOVES to draw. He came out of the womb sucking his thumb and drawing with the other hand.

This is his first full art project. He had a few little ones.

He could spent hours like this.

We recently went on a field trip to a few places, Albuquerque and Santa Fe. I blogged about it here, here and here.

Here we are at the Natural Museum of Science in Albq.

You can see that our home schooling has paid off!

Son's third drawing. (More like erasing.)

It's Beethoven. He looked more abstract before some touch ups.

Today I caught up (almost) on grades, credits, transcripts and all of that fun stuff.

Home schooling can't be good for trees.

I can't tell you how many copies I make in a school year.

Today I copied a weeks worth of SOTW tests plus more.

Thankfully dinner is in the crock pot.
Unfortunately, the cabbage and onions are not pleasing to the nose.

For Sale

2011-03-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

I know I have a few readers, so I am putting this out there.

I have a few items I am selling.
All items are in very good condition and come from a smoke-free home. I prefer PayPal, but will take checks.

Postage paid on the following items:

Writing Strands - Both for $15
Student Level 4
Evaluating Writing

MUS - Algebra I - Both for $20 DVD
Teachers Guide

Diana Waring - All for $40 These all go together.
Ancient Civilization and the Bible Vol. One 5th-12th (a bit older version)
Student and Teacher books
Cds: What in The World's Going on Here & True Tales

A Reason for Science - Each for $45, plus s/h as the kits aren't media mail
Both have almost complete kits and Teachers Book. The items missing you will more then likely have at home. When looking this item up, they show five student books. I just called them and they gladly gave me the homeschool deal. You can order as many or as few books.
Level F
Level G

If you need the links just let me know.
If you are interested just let me know in the comments.
As always, thanks for looking!

blessed

2011-03-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our package of used Math-U-See came.
When I opened it and laid it all out, I thought "She sent us extra."
I then went to the pc to right her and there was a PM for me from her.
She not only sent us extra (we now have pre-algebra through pre-cal) she gave the money I paid with to a relief fund for Japan!

I don't know this woman. I may never meet her.
But golly, it made all of those times I gave stuff away worth it.

The blessing doesn't stop there.
My dear friend has blessed us as well!

That is one BIG thing I love about homeschooling and homeschoolers, their generosity.

May your day be blessed!

Another Use For MUS...

2011-03-10T19:16:00.000-08:00

Need another use for those math-u-see blocks?

Son found that they make great building blocks.

Love double duty items!

test tube mosquito

2011-03-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

I loved this experiment.

Son wants to do it again.

We learned about air pressure.

Here we have a test tube mosquito.

We are boiling the water...creating the pressure.

Though it has one wing (a second holder was to be it's second wing) it worked great.

Sucking the "blood" (ours is alien blood...all I had was green).

Can you see the squirt?

Before we heated the water it wouldn't/couldn't suck anything up.

Gotta love science!

Not mosquitoes!

The PE Dilemma

2011-03-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

We have a dilemma in our house/school.
Physical Education is lacking.

While we are fairly active, son being very active, our daughter is not so much.

This is her 9th grade year and she needs PE credits (2 years worth!). So I have been trying to fit it in, keeping track of all of the pysical activities she does.

This morning was a melt down.
Calisthenics was our course of action.
The floor was dirty.
The exercises were DUMB.
The leg lifts just too hard.

She took an F for today.

She did redeem herself somewhat by riding her bike for an errand.

Do you have a reluctant PE student?
What do you do?

Open Book Test

2011-02-28T11:11:00.000-08:00

When we took our kids out of public school they did not know how to learn.
For the most part, they would read, close the book and forget what they just read.
One of my big goals in homeschooling them would be to teach them to learn.

The best way I have found is to let them take their history tests open-book.
They look over the test.
Then I play the cd.
I pause as they need.
I "go back" as needed too.
While it is subtle, I have noticed that they are retaining more information this way.

What about you, do you have open-book tests?
How do you teach your kids to learn?

Good Intentions

2011-02-18T14:48:00.000-08:00

Oh, I had such good intentions for you today.

Fridays are our science day. They make for fun photos.

We had fun experiments and all.

We had no live batteries.

Also, I have had good intentions on posting at least once a month (I'd prefer more).

It seems I am barely making it.

With that I will give you a quick run down of our homeschool life.

It is pretty much running the same.

Daughter finished her Writing Strands this morning.

-I don't think we will be doing any more of those.

I have my our Sonlight in for next school year.

-I got a $500+ core for $250!!!

I am on course and have a plan for dd's high school schedule, thanks to my friend Anne.

Daughter will entering the writing fair and we are trying to get an art fair going for son.

We actually had two snow days.

That was 2 weeks ago...today it's like 74!

We are also taking next week off.

My brother and his family are going to American Samoa to be missionaries.

We are their last stop before they leave.

Hopefully I will have something more interesting to say in March!

back on track

2011-01-01T19:30:00.000-08:00

Something broke in my spirit.

I am back on track in the homeschooling department.

We took time off for Christmas and it felt good.
Now I am looking forward to starting back on Monday.

Son finished his Math-U-See with an A! He is excited to start the next book.
We finished 7th grade science and will start 8th grade this coming week.

Question for you...What do you use for History? I am possibly not going to use Sonlight next year.

end of the year confessions

2010-12-20T10:50:00.000-08:00

I have a new follower? How can that be when I never post? Anyway, welcome, so glad to have you.

This school year I have struggle with more than just keeping up with this blog.
I have wondered and pondered more then once if I need to send the kids back to public school next school year.

Here's why (honest reasons):
*I want more "me" time. Not that the kids at grades 9 and 7 need me all too much. However, I am sure you all know exactly what I mean.
*I am bored with most of the stuff we have. I realize that it can't and won't all be fun. We did something out of the ordinary the other day and that really reminded me what I loved about homeschool. I need to step out of the books more often. I don't want to short change them if I am not into it anymore.
*Since the kids are in 9th and 7th I feel if they were in PB school that they would have more opportunities (electives). I have asked them if they want to do this or that and no, they are doing what they want for the most part.
*The kids get really tired of being around each other all of the time. We have gotten them "into" separate activities outside the home, which helps some.
*Sometimes the task of searching for the right curriculum is daunting. Where we live we are pretty much on our own. Which is nice, but you really have to do a lot of leg work.
I have talked to two other homeschooling moms that I respect and one says keep them home and the other says to put them back in for one year and see. I know a mom who homeschooled for two years then pbschooled for one and so on.

How do you stay motivated?

They Need to be Around Other People

2010-11-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

We, as you, have gotten the, "They need to be around other people and get out of the house", more then once.
We have also gotten the, "They need to be around other people besides your church people."

While I understand, and somewhat agree, I know they people are not seeing the whole picture.

At public school they see and are exposed to:
good kids
bad kids
kids who get into trouble
kids who are into drugs (our kids are older)
and so on, you know
They are around all kinds of adults as well.
They are around different types of people from different walks of life.
People who aren't like you.

In church they see and are exposed to:
good kids
bad kids (yes, even in church)
kids who get into trouble (These ones they know personally and are more affected by it)
people who are on drugs, most who get delivered
couples who were shacking up getting it right and getting married
Last night in revival, we had a scitzophrenzic (sp?) get saved and prayed for.
They see all walks of life.
People who aren't like you working together.

They go on outreach and meet all types.
They go to the grocery store, etc. and see and interact with all types.
They volunteer, etc.

I really could go on.

Are our kids sheltered? Yes, but they were before public school.
Are our kids at home a lot? Sort of, but that is part of the point.
Do I feel our kids are missing out, not too often.

Sorry for the rant.

Catching Up

2010-10-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

Does anyone have time they could loan me?

We have been very busy.

Here's some science we did a few weeks ago.

Experimental Epidemic

Focus: Disease Transmission

Objective: To explore how disease can spread so fast and far.

Overview: Diseases sometimes spread rapidly across vast areas.

We have also started Passport to India through Sonlight. I am sure you all could join too.
We are on day 2.
We visited a fisherman slum neighborhood.

Gotta run! Have a great day!

Living History Days

2010-10-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

We went to the mountains today for Living History Days.

I really liked it.

The kids...gave me a shoulder shrug.

Son wanted more hands on stuff.

We ended up hooking up with another group.

I knew the mom from public school.

It was nice to see her.

Here is a frig in a caboose!

You had to put a bag of cold water in the top.

You have to read the writing on the wall...the second part.

(when you flush, it all goes out, right onto the track or whatever)

Did you know that a caboose can go either way. You can move these vents inside depending on which way you are going.

Son looking at a toy train set up of the mountains.

Learning about wool.

Funny thing...the man said that this wool is clean. The girl with her hand on her hip said "CLEAN!".

The cost of a homemade sweater from scratch (starting with the wool on the table) $5,000!

WOW!

It would take a week to make thread out of one pound of wool.

Homemade butter.

Adding machine.

This trapper is 250 years old!

Those are real furs!

The trappers would trade horses, furs, etc. for women, to be their wives.
Romantic!

The women did a good deal of the heavy work too.

We also learned about blacksmiths and Harvey Girls. (and here)

Son said this was the best part!

Blood, Cartilage and Cardboard?

2010-09-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

Red blood cells, plasma and white blood cells.

Does your back hurt?

Don't worry...

It all came together.

We were a few short. Your real spine has 33 vertebraes.

Greener Grass

2010-09-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

I must be in a self-searching mood here. Forgive me.

You would think four years into this homeschooling journey that I would have this licked.

It must be the case of the grass is always greener on the other side.

Someone always seems to be teaching better then you, have better books, etc.

When your kids are in public schools, you can blame anything and everything (just about) on the school or teacher.

When it's you, it's you. I think the most daunting task of homeschooling is finding the right curriculum.

Maybe by the time the kids are graduated, I will have found the perfect fit for each of them!

By the Numbers

2010-09-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

This has nothing to do with numbers.
I just couldn't think of a better title.

Going into our fourth week of school, we have some reviews for you.

This is all Sonlight reviews...Core 7. Again, both kids 7th and 9th grade do this together.

1. BBC...let's say we started on page 36 this morning and dear daughter asks, "What is this all about anyway?" It is part of our bible studies. Granted, they know a lot of this info already. But you can tell how well they have been paying attention.

2. The King's Fifth...they did not enjoy reading this. This is part of the group of books they read themselves. Now when I asked them the questions, they did pretty good.

3. Don't All Religions Lead to God?...We ended up skiming through this one. Again, they knew much of this anyway (without all of the details). We will quickly move onto the next book, How to Stay a Christain in High School.

4. The Iron Peacock...another read-themselves books. They are still reading it, but are enjoying this one much better. I enjoyed it better to. I read the read-themself books in bed.

5. The Story of the World Vol.3 Early Modern Times...History. If the stories were longer, I would lose them. But we do geography here (and with some of the afore mentioned books). We also have the Usborne Encyclopedia of World History. (It's not pictured here.) I think it's a great follow up on to the preivous book. Love the photos.

6. A Murder for Her Majesty...they kids thought it strated out boring, but golly, we are hooked! Each chapter leaves you hanging! We will finish it this week...can't wait to see how it ends!

Over all, I really like how the Sonlight is laid out. Will try to post some science photos soon.

Peanuts and Elevators

2010-08-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Life Science

Science you can eat, burn, ferment.

Food energy and nutrients.

(Tuttle, the failed {sort of} experiment was supposed to be: Respiration. To explore how seeds use energy and oxygen.) A few of the seeds started to open, but that was that. It ended up stinking.

Elevators- A Writing Lesson

The kids are having a hard time with the Creative Expression in the Sonlight.

So, I came up with this for now.

I picked the topic Elevators.

Day one: Describe what youe elevator is like. Smells, looks, feels, sounds, etc.

Day two: What is going on inside your elevator? Outside?

This is what we have so far. These are just sketches, therefore sloppiness is allowed! :)

Day three: I will think about that tonight in bed!

Another One Bites the Dust

2010-08-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

As the commerical goes..."No more tears."

Analytical Grammar is done for. As I told you, it is a three year course. DD did it in one year. DS started his second, and forgot just about everything he learned from last year!! And there is no way he is going to reread all of that and neither am I. This is a building thing, so you have to remember what you learned. In all honesty, much of it is way over the top and just not that practical, unless you plan on being an editor, english teacher or the like. So, it is going in the trash!

He is still learning grammar through Wordly Wise. Which I use as their spelling too.

They are not to hip on the Creative Expression part of Sonlight. This is frustrating for me. Writing was my outlet in school. So when they look at me like deer in the headlights, I get stuck. Imagine you were someone, somewhere far, far away. Time travel even. Tell us your story, what happened, where'd you go, what did you do? On and on...the kids, well, they say, I don't get it! I think I am going to have to help them think. Break things down even more for them. They are beginning to not like writing. Now, don't get me wrong DS has an imagination...a very vivid one. It's just putting all of that onto paper. DD is well, more of think in the box sort.

We also started DS in the Boys and Girls Club. Turns out he really needs more socialization ( I know I may have opened a can of worms here.) then I can give him. I thought DD would be the one who needed it more. Funny how things are. Anyway, it was hubby's idea. I had some reservations. DS did not want to go. However, he LOVES and I mean LOVES it! He can't wait for 3 ish to come. He is one of the oldest there, but it's fine with him. He comes home much nicer and respectful.

Thanks Tuttle for your well wishes and prayers.

If you read and have your own blog, I would love to read about you and your adventures.

2010-08-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Our daughter loves making videos.

Here's one she made of last year.

You get a chance to view my rascals live (well almost live).

The artist in the family (son) had this for us our first morning.

Geography, as if you needed an explaination.

Science...a week long project, that looks like it may not work.

First Day...Nice Day

2010-08-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

We did it! First day down and done!

With one in 9th grade and the other in 7th, I knew we would have a bit more work.
We also tried Sonlight for the first time.
I think I am going to really like it.
The kids, well the jury is still out.

All in all, today went really smooth!

I tell you the week before we all stayed up too late and sleep in even later.

This morning God made sure I woke up on time. We had a thunder storm nice and early! I have been up since five!

Sleep? Sometimes it's better not to...

2010-08-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

So my goal was to get the kids on a school schedule.
Early to bed, early to rise.
However, life has a way of not following plans.
Sometimes that is a good thing.
Take last night, we stayed up LONG after we prayed and said goodnight.
Our daughter and I in the living room talking about boys, life, friends, God's will, etc.
I wouldn't trade it for the extra sleep.
Our son was hanging out in the garage with dad, talking. He went to bed ("but not to sleep") first.
Then dad joined us girls on the couch and talked more about life.
This morning, they are still in bed.
I slept in and still spent time with God (good time!) and ate breakfast!
Even the dog is still asleep.
Only poor hubby had to get up EARLY for work. Bless his soul.

Oh, Thursday night will be a late on too.
We plan to stay up to watch the meteor shower.

So, for now, our school sleep shedule will be on hold.
I guess that's one of the many blessings of homeschooling.

This Years Line Up

2010-08-04T12:47:00.000-07:00

We have used a number of curriculum over the fews years. Some we are keeping and others, well, they didn't work for us. Here's what we are using this year.

Math-U-See: Keeper! It works great for both kids and for me. I can't say enough about it. I have recommended it to other people who love it as well.

A Reason for Science: Keeper! It comes with everything you need! We are going to be doing 7th and 8th grade this year. There are only 36 lesson per year. Both kids are doing this together. DD was having a hard time getting science. DS gets it easier. So I lowered her two grades and teach them together. By the end of this year DD wil only be one year "behind" and DS will be one year "ahead". This curriculum only goes up to the 8th grade.

Analytical Grammar: DS will keep on working on his grammar. It is a three year (6th-8th) course. DD was able to do it in one year. It is a pretty intense course. When they are done with it they should "know" all the grammar they need.

Sonlight: Core 7 for history, geography, current events, writing, bible, etc. Again, both kids will be using this. This will be our first year with Sonlight. Have heard many wonderful things about it. I finished reading through my instructor's giude and I think I got it. We'll have to work out how they are going to share the books. From the looks of it, I know I am going to love the books. We have read some of them already.

Wordly Wise 7 and 9: This is through Sonlight. I think you can get it other places. It will be our spelling (ha...I just spelled that wrong...twice!). I am sure DD will have no problems. Spelling is one of her best subjects. I often have her look over the things I write.

We don't have set electives. The kids "do their own thing" here. They each play an instrument...drums and guitar. DD takes singing lessons and spends her time making movies (really small videos). She also volunteers at a local thrift store once week. DS is always doing something, drawing, building, sports (not with any group), he has a garden. They both "dress up" and do skits, which are video taped and then DD makes then into videos. We like to let them come up with their own stuff here. It is probably more on the lines with what they will do in real life anyway.

Back to School...Already!

2010-08-02T10:07:00.001-07:00

In two weeks the alarm clocks will ring early once again.
In two weeks the sounds of school will once again fill our house.
In two weeks our summer will end.

Where did the time go?

I had a list of things to get done before the new school year came!

Trying to Find a Routine

2010-06-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

It happens every time. The end of school means the end of one routine. Time to make another one. The first few weeks are usually that way. We have been in revival in our church since May 30th, so we have been having late nights. The kids have been sleeping in, even dear son (who very rarely sleeps in).

Also, I am not one of those moms who plan everything out. However, I do need some sort of routine.

If you take summers off, do you have a routine?

End of School Post

2010-05-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Well, it's here...the end of the school year.

(Sorry I didn't post more.)

I did the grades today. Some are assessed by me and the others were their test grades.

I am proud to say that they got A's and B's. One great grade is DS's math grade. He got an A! He pretty much did it on his own and has come a LONG way!

This was the first time I actually sat down and went through their books and gave out written grades. I think I am going to do it from now on. (Especially since DD is going into high school next year.) DD could care less about the "report card". DS wants his and gets all excited over good grades.

Do you give grades?

Why or why not?

We are Still Here

2010-04-06T06:31:00.000-07:00

Did you think I moved?

Or stopped hsing?

Nothing new here, just busy and honestly, nothing really new in homeschool to write about.

I am finding it harder to stay focused these last two months of school. We will finish our geography this week. DD is already done with her grammar. I think we need to go on a field trip! Hmmm...no to plan it!

Introducing...

2010-03-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

Today we had s new family in our little homeschool group! That is always good.

They made me think of how different each lady (and a few men) are in our group of moms.

Let me intorduce you to them: (sorry I don't have any photos)

H: she is a long standing homeschooler and one of the regulars. She has, I think 9 children. The first half were girls and the second half boys. She has been at this for like 20 years! She is a true talker, wears no shoes (unless it's very cold out) and no bra. She doesn't shave and, yes, eats natural food (you knew it was coming). Her husband works for the public schools!

C: she is another regular. She has two kids close to our kids ages. Really sweet lady, talks to everyone and remembers your name (the kid's names too). C & H meet even in the summer! Her husband puts in septic tanks. She keeps the books for him. They own horses. DD plays piano. Her DD and my DD are pretty close and the most alike out of the girls. C's hair always looks nice and she is put together type of a lady. Christian woman.

Then there is mom a (I don't know her name.) She had a bunch of kids too, most of them are grown. Nice, eats good food, brings healthy snacks. Comes every now and then.

L: She was one of the first ladies I talked to when I first started homeschooling. REALLY helped me. Talking to her gives me peace...she settles my spirit. I actually run into her more at the library then at the PE group. She has three kids. Her DD is super nice, dresses like a modern little house on the prairie, braided pig tails and all (she's 17).

Mom b: has two kids, comes fairly often, she more drops her kids off or they drive themselves. DH smokes and hangs out along the fence.

T: the PE teacher, scout mom, tall athletic type. She has been at this for awhile too. I haven't talked to her much. Though when I have she has been nice. She is pretty serious and has things together. Without her we'd have no PE.

Then there's the new family. C & A have two kids, one much older then the other. They just started HSing and just moved here. They are REALLY into it. They are for real rcokers, have records, fans, toured the whole bit! He has tatoos. She had really cool Doc Martins! Anyway, I am getting sidetracked. Really nice folks. Their DD and my DD hit it off today. She may end up giving our DD singing lessons! (Answer to prayer!) I told my DH that they would have hit it off.
My DH loves to paint ball--C loves to paintball
My DH is a "rocker"--C plays the bass in their band (I play bass in our band)
MY DH sings/plays guitar--A. sings/plays guitar
I have to stop myself from rescuing dogs--A has the same problem
I have always wanted to adopt--A takes in kids
There are a few more things that they are alike. I hope to see more of them.

Then there's DH and I. Dh comes sometimes on his Fridays off. He usally comes as he is, in his work clothes, or something similar. He'll play with the kids who are "straglers" (sp?). Me, well you know me.

Why I Love Homeschooling

2010-03-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Somedays I would rather be by myself or just not have school, but then our son does this and reminds me of why I homeschool and love it.

He rounded up some scrap wood that was in the yard and put together this scooter.

He was getting rid of his skateboard.

He used the wheels for his scooter.

(My idea...I earned some "Cool" mom points there!)

Science offers some fun photo opportunities.

Here the kids are learning about camoflouge (sp?) and animals use it to save them from getting eaten.

We use a Reason for Science and really like it. I had to bring DD in a lower grade.

So DS and DD use the same book.

They had to color toothpicks.

Then throw them in the yard and try to find them.

Can you see it? It a green one.

Here they are looking for some more. I think they found them all.

Notice the slippers...one reason DD loves homeschool!

Decomposition-This is a Bit Gross

2010-03-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

In our science we had to do a couple of experiments with bananas.

Each experiment had two bags each.

The first had bananas with nothing, and then bananas with yeast.

After a week the bananas with the yeast were REALLY mushing and well, yucky.

The second had bananas with again nothing and then salt.

The salt acted as a perservative. The salt sucked the water out of the bananas really fast.

Brings to mind what it does to our bodies after a bowl of chips.

Pass the tea!!

Back in the Day

2010-02-17T07:46:00.000-08:00

So the kids and I were answering the Smarty Pants U.S. Presidents quiz by The Pioneer Woman yesterday, we got to a question that had to do with Bill Clinton. I knew the answer. DD says, well you were back in the day, so you know about that. Back in the day?!?! I chuckled and let it go. Though I think I will go get my hair highlighted to cover the grays now!

2010-02-03T21:14:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this?

Egg Drop

2010-01-27T10:36:00.001-08:00

You've probably seen this done before. We tried the famous egg drop experiment. Each kid got two eggs to wrap as they wanted. The idea was to see if the wrapping would protect the egg from breaking when dropped.#1 tissue and medical tape

#2 duck tape, duck tape and more duck tape

#3 attempted rubber band wrap.

#4 newspaper and yes, duck tape

#5 stuffing

Boy, very excited about dropping the eggs.

None of the eggs made it. The duck taped one cracked the least.

Problem Solving...

2010-01-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

This morning I found myself explaining the relativity of pre-algebra to my 8Th grader.

My explanation probably was as relative as algebra itself.

Fun Science

2009-12-17T13:09:00.001-08:00

In C's physical science we did a cool experiment. This is just water and a LOT of corn starch.

I have two incase you want to see it twice! LOL! We left it in the pan all day. You could pick up the dish and act like you were going to pour it but it would move but a bit! Pretty fun!

Come Along Way

2009-12-15T07:52:00.001-08:00

What you can see in this photo...
A lone boy in a tree house doing his work (math).
My dirty windows...I had to sneak this photo from our kitchen.
The mug of coffee (flavored milk) I made him. He was up late with his dad last night.
A boy who is comfortable and confident at what he is doing. What you don't see...
The steam that is coming from his nose.
A boy who, when we first started homeschool, struggled with math and needed me to sit right by him, even if I wasn't helping.
The tears and frustration that happened along the past three years.
A happy mom behind the camera!

Don't give up! This photo was three years in the making!

Unexcepted Lessons

2009-11-20T07:52:00.000-08:00

2 1/2 years: what I have learned/gained from homeschooling.

Distraction come, you will work them and everything works out just fine.

They will get it. After struggling through math, needing me to sit there (even if it was just doing nothing) dear son is getting it on his own!!! He has even done math for fun!!

I am not super woman, nor do I want to be!

I really do love my kids.

I can get mad like never before...where did it come from.

After working on school in the morning, my brain is on auto pilot. (What did you just say?)

Mixing it up and not going by the book is fun! We did math and grammar yesterday. Then went for an hour walk looking for objects that make letters (Christmas presents), talking, getting our vitamin D. When Dad got home we drove out of town to hear a presentation on ghost towns in our area. DH was really excited about this! It was put on by the Historical Society in a Good Samaritan place. Let's just say that it was full of senior citizens. At the end the DS got interested enough to stop saying his stomach hurt and get into it. (Luckily hubby sat between son and I!!!)

There are things homeschool kids learn that aren't in the books.

People expect homeschool kids to be smarter...even if it's there first year of homeschooling.

People think you can rearrange your schedule any ole time.

People are always telling me "that would be a great lesson for the kids." Do they tell that to public school kids...no! And just for the record, while you mean well, I really do have enough to teach, thank you!

SO many moms tell me they couldn't do it. Chance are, you can. I am proof!

I have really learned a LOT about myself too! (Sorry, I will spare you the boring details!)

I know there is more that I have learned, but I know the kids are about ready for me, so I am off!

Have a great day!

Science Takes Patience

2009-10-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

You may not be able to see it all here in the photo. This is one of C's science experiments today. We have boiling salt water...

A lid with a bag of ice on the top...

And a bowl to catch the dripping (NOT) condensation.

Let me tell you, some of these experiments have taken a long time and have resulted in patience!

Can you see all of the white spots on the stove and the pan? That's the salt! Still need to wipe it down!

Teaching While Sick

2009-10-19T06:59:00.001-07:00

We all have been sick for about two weeks here. The flu.

We have had no school all last week. But will start back today, albeit late.

With this in mind, as I am still a bit stuffed and blowing my nose, I wanted to write about teaching while sick.

I remember the first year of homechooling, I got sick one day and had to teach from the couch. Poor son, was so good about bringing his books to me, etc. I remember thinking, yikes, I wish I could call in a sub! But quickly knew I was the mom, the teacher, the janitor, the coach and the sub. I was it! I also felt more pressure to do school every day. (Whereas, I know now that I can skip a day here and there and will make it up later.) Last year wasn't too bad.

This year, so far has had enough sick days. So since the kids are feeling better. I will pull up my rolling chair, have cough drops in my pocket and tissue within reach and teach!

What do you do when you are sick?

Just What I Needed

2009-09-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

So, we are into our third year of HSing and I feel much more confident, but this morning I kept pushing away the thought of maybe I am not doing enough for the kids. (Pause for a sentence check...we have been going over compound and complex sentences. I think I need the kids to check the first sentence. ;) )

Anyway, I am fighting the thought that "maybe I am short changing the kids' education. Maybe I will send DD to public high school next year."

We are in the post office when the the teller asks why the kids aren't in school. "They are homeschooled." I reply. She was taken back, just a bit. She starts to go on about how smart they must be and encourages me to keep it up. She says that she couldn't HS them at their ages. She really made my day!

You never know when you will say just the right thing at the right time to someone, so be nice!

Our Wall

2009-09-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of repainting our walls, but I think this one will have to wait. It seems to be getting covered up. This is our dining room wall. As you can see it is also our main homeschool wall too. On it we have multiplication facts in colored story form, chemical formulas in colors (which I think only DD can read, she wrote them on teenage graphics), a calendar, the alphabet in cursive (as the kids need to write almost all in cursive now and we need the occasional reminder of how a letter should look), the ever essential dry erase board, and two maps for geography.

Last year we also had the US presidents running along the top of the wall. What does you wall look like?

Lunch Break Thoughts 2

2009-09-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

Today, the kids worked by themselves for the most part and they did good! (usually I have to sit by DS to help him with his work or just to keep him focused.) I SOOO needed that too! The timing was perfect! I have a LOT to do and am going on a lack of sleep.

Thursday we are going to go on a field trip to the mtns nearby for some historical reenactments! Fri starts our PE group!

Lunch Break Thoughts

2009-09-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog I intended it to be more or less my online diary of our homeschooling experience. I wanted to show the good and the bad, our triumphs and struggles. I write this not to complain or brag, but to hopefully encourage someone as I sort out my feelings.

For the most part this has been a wonderful ride...today however is one of those that I don't wish to ride again at least not for a long time. Let me explain. DD can pretty much work on her own. DS needs more of my help even of it's just staying focused. So, I sit with him as he does his grammar and math and work through each problem. Today he had a test. He was on his own. I left the room to get some things done. I had to tell them a few times to stop talking. They only got quieter. After a reasonable time I came back in to find that he only finished 6 problems on his test!! This and a few other things got to me. I was not the most patient mom today. These are the days that I have to stay focused on the big picture.

First "Half" Day

2009-08-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

We are having our first 1/2 day. We started out school just fine. Then DD says she's not feeling well. Stomach.

Physical Science 101

2009-08-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

DD is in 8th/9th grade Apologia Physical Science. We have done three experiment so far this week. Here's number three on Concentration.

She filled each glass with 1 c, 1/2c, 1/4c of vinegar added a Rolaid to each cup. We watched them dissolve.

Dumped those out, then added varying amounts of vinegar and water to equal 2 cups. Rolaids dissolved faster in the water that had more vinegar.

Grammar, What Grammar?

2009-08-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

Day three and we are starting to find the kinks.

I have forgotten to do grammar two days in a row!
I have to do refresher sheets for DS in math. The info's there, just needs to be dug up.
DD and science are not clicking.
History seems to be working...well, for DS. DD said that she needs to let her brain warm up first. (We are doing history last!) As to when will it warm up, after DS answers the questions. Hmmm... He is the one taking notes.
Our days are longer and I don't know how to fit it all in. We are going to keep at this pace until we know if we can do some subjects every other day.
Geography will be M-W-F. We are ahead of schedule on that.
Spelling wisdom M & W.
Fri I want to do the "main" subjects then add the "extras" in.
We are also doing Expository Writing. Joy! The kids don't think writing is fun. But as a keeper of three blogs, I rather enjoy writing! I'd like to write everyday. We'll see.

I hope your school day is going smooth!

Day One Down

2009-08-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

I am excited to tell you that today went great! Dh went grocery shopping for me! We all got up on time! It all ran smoothly.

Our days are going to be longer, like two hours longer. But it went much smoother. We did one experiment (Atoms & Molecules).

Start of School Panic!

2009-08-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

School starts Monday! Here's what we have going on:

DS has a cold. The rest of us are getting over it.

DH is taking that day off. (He is working the grave yard this weekend.)

It is a grocery shopping day.

I am feeling like I am not ready.

2009-07-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

We have found this great site. Audio books.

Confession...

2009-07-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

I have to confess...I just read a friends blog. She is just going to start her first year of homeschooling with 4 kiddos. She is super organized, always has been. People like her always make me feel like I need to get my act together. Then I realize I am not like her. She has chore charts on her frig. (Chore charts never worked for us. I still have to double check the kids stuff.) Her magnets and clips are colored for each kid. Her schedule is already up. I again have to confess that after reading her blog (though I know she is like this for everything) I felt a bit inferior. Though my closet is color coordinated, that's about the end of my super organization skills. I know she is reading this, yelling at me from across the states. But I need to go now and reorganize my school supplies for next school year!

Great Find and Less Than a Month

2009-07-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

Less then one month left of our summer vacation! The kids are NOT ready for school to resume at all. They are totally enjoying the summer.

I, on the other hand, though I have been doing the deep cleaning that doesn't happen during school, etc., am getting ready for school. I think it's having a routine that I like. Don't get me wrong, we do have a routine. I just like the school routine better, most days.

I also have to tell you (because as fellow homeschoolers I KNOW you'll appreciate it and not look at me funny) I found a nice, US map. I looked online, looked in our local stores, etc., nothing that wassuitable. Do you know where I found it...it makes it all the better? The Dollar Store (where everything's a dollar!!!)! It's perfect size too.

Now if I can just get my hubby to agree to switch two rooms so we can have an actual room for school, I think I'd be one happy camper.

Anybody There?

2009-05-20T14:17:00.001-07:00

Does anyone still read my sadly neglected blog?

If you do, then this may be the last post for the summer. School gets out for us the Friday! I couldn't be happier! I need some time off. I have next school years curriculum all lined up.

Here's what we do the last 2 weeks of school. (We don't seem to completely finish our books.) Once the kids get to a good stopping point like a test. If stopping in 1-2 weeks would mean stopping in the middle of a chapter/unit then we just stop. They use that time to "catch up" on some other subject. So DS is finishing a book for Lang Arts. DD her Math. We finished our History early and were filling it in with study the 1900's with a timeline and reading about the Oregon Trail.

I am going through their books and getting together a "list" of the subjects we've covered this year. Being our second year of HSing, I think I am just getting somethings. And since our DD will be in high school in two years, I know I need to start keeping better records. Anyone used a transcript maker?

Well, I do need to get going. I took a nap, from which I woke up more tired than when I laid down! Please be back in August to read more of our Homeschool adventures! And thanks for following us this year!

School Outside

2009-04-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

How do you NOT take class outside on a day like this!!

Science Experiment

2009-04-09T17:09:00.000-07:00

DD had to do a science experiment on a classmate. Since we have two "students" Dear Brother got to be the guinea pig! He was very willing though. You had to hold your nose while tasting different foods and see if could tell what you were eating while your holding your nose. DD didn't really explain the whole nose thing to son. So he'd hold his nose for awhile then let it go. He'd tell us what he was eating after letting his nose go.

So I stepped in and let the poor guy breathe some!

Out of apples, cornbread and two different crackers, he was only fooled by the cornbread. He thought it was broccoli. This boy knows his food.

Writing Fair

2009-03-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

We just got back from dropping of our entries for the writing fair. This is the first year that it's open to HSers. J & C both have one entry. Here's how it works...if there are three or less entries per category then they'll just send those off to the county writing fair where they will compete with the winners from the public schools. If there is more then three per category then they will judge those and have the winners go to county. We should know something maybe by the middle of April!

I'll post the kids' entries later. I have to make you all come back! heehee

Spring Break and Books

2009-03-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, do I still even have any readers? It's been so long since I updated. Sorry! School has been going good. We are on Spring Break right now. Will be back to school on Monday. So we have gotten caught up on cleaning. (You know the deep stuff.)

I have ordered most of the curriculum for next school year! I am excited. The kids are like oh. Here's a quick break down of what we are going to be using. Sorry no linking. I'll do that later.
Math - Math-U-See
History-A good amount of living books from Beautiful Feet and Amazon (CM books) and some cd's/workbooks from Your Story Hour
Science-undecided still, but it will be hands on experiments
Geography-Beautiful Feet and amazon (CM books)
Grammar-Analytical grammar (one year course for C and 3 yr for J) (Simply CM)
Writing-free workbooks from another homeschooler!
Have timeline charts on history, science, composers, etc from Beautiful Feet
Spelling-(dictation too) Spelling Wisdom (simply CM)

I think that's it. We are almost done with this years History Alive. We all like it, but will probably wait to continue the next sections until they are older. I got 9 history books from the library at under $.10 each!!! So we'll use those when we are done with History Alive.They are century books. they break down the 1900's in ten year sections. Also, a lady from church, who HS'd her boys is giving us a full set of encyclopedias!! J LOVES encyclopedias! He takes them to bed to read, seriously!

When I get my schedule written out for next year, I'll post it for you guys.

That's all for now.

Stuck on Nine?

2009-03-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

Gosh, it's been awhile since my last post. So sorry! Sometimes no news is good news.

I have a couple of math tips for you. You may already know these.

Multiplies of NINE!

Tip one: 9x4=36, 9x6=54, 9x1=9, right? Look at the numbers...the first number of the answer is always one less then what you are multiplying nine by.

Tip two: look at the examples above. Look at the answers. They all add up to nine!

So if you are stuck on 9x7....6 is one less then 7...6 plus...3 equals nine...your answer will be 63!

Have a good day!

Homeschool Groups

2009-02-13T15:44:00.000-08:00

Ahhh...just got back from our valentines party with the homeschool group! I haven't been all school year. So it was very nice to see some of the ladies again. Both of the kids had a really good time and made friends! Praise God. We will try to go again.

Presidents Day and the Bible Sites

2009-02-10T06:15:00.000-08:00

I have a few more sites for you!

For bible study: They have each of the books broken down. We are going to finish Genesis today. They have maps, charts, etc. too. The Church of Zion does it, but so far the content has been pretty good. It's amazing the topics we have covered. Some very "adult" topics. I myself have enjoyed it.

For studying the Presidents: I wanted to study the presidents a bit since Pres. Day in here soon. This is actually coloring pages. BUT they are cool pages. Our DC are 13 and 10 and like to them! We do five a day. So, we are going to do our 4Th set today. After they are colored we cut them out and hang them on the wall just under the ceiling. I made numbers and names. We have read some about pres. before so they kids have a few faves. J is excited to get to Garfield and Grant today! They even have a page for our newest president. We even used the pic in our LA study. I veered off of our curriculum. (Which I do now and then.) I want the kids to get better writing skills. (Poor kids have a mother who wanted to be a writer, has four blogs, etc.) Anyway, I explained how words can paint a picture. We had to pick a pres. and describe him/the pic so we could guess who he was. I tried to tell the not to be too obvious, especially at first. It was fun to see how we described the same pres.

We have also been borrowing the School House Rock DVD from a friend. WOW! I don't know who's liking it more the kids or the parents. The kids keep saying, you know this song? Yeah, we grew up on it! But as an adult, I really get what they are talking about. Like I think I get the electoral college now. I KNOW what a conjunction is, etc. Too funny.

I need to stop rambling!
Have a great day!

2009-02-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

I have some curriculum recommendations for you.

The first one is for the kids, but will greatly help the parent/teacher as well.

Math-U-See Is so worth the money. We have been using it for a little more than two weeks now. The curriculum comes with student book, teacher book and test book. They are VERY user friendly. It also comes with a DVD where Steve Demme teaches you the teacher how to teach the next lesson. Our kids watch it with me. Every time we've watched it we've said, "Oh!" or, "Ah!" Math really makes sense. I can't recommend this enough. I'd even suggest it to non-homeschoolers. If your child is struggling in math this would be a great tool to help them. They have free demos online so you can get an idea of the lessons. They also have manipulatives to use that make sense too.

The second one is for parents/teachers.

Dianne Craft Teaching the Right Brained Child. (I have a test under the labels to find out more about right/left brain.) I cannot say enough good about this way of teaching! Our DS is more right brained. And let me tell you these techniques work! (Also, look under lessons in my labels.)
Now this is not curriculum. It is a teaching DVD with book.

2009-01-24T07:37:00.000-08:00

OK, these are backwards. Yesterday, school went well and the weather was just too nice to stay home. So we walked to the zoo. It was about a 30 minute walk. We were outside for alittle more than two hours! We actually got sweaty! These are some photos from the zoo and the walk there.

The monkeys are always a fave! This one is actually watching DS. He even did a dance for him. The kids call him Elvis! J was really interested in the swan. We just finished reading The Trumpet of the Swan. Just a sign on the way. The buildings in the window look like an old western! Actually the street in the window is the original downtown. It has some neat buildings.

Our performing arts center.

The house is a constant remodel. It was the school district building (I think). Some guy has been remodeling it into a house (I think). This is one of the gates to the house. I always like driving by and seeing what's been added.

2009-01-22T10:57:00.000-08:00

Today, we did a hands on project.

Project: Take apart this radio and put it back together. And still have it work.

DS taking the screws out.

Wow, the screw driver's magnetic!

The guts!! We wanted to take it further apart then this, but most of the items were welding on.

DD amusing herself while Mom and DS check out the inside. Another lessons with magnets.

Final outcome: We got it back together. We weren't able to turn it on as the previous batteries had corroded inside.

But it was fun.

2009-01-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we went to the library. We try to go every other Wed. I am one of those weird people who carry their camera everywhere and take pictures of everything! Ha! Anyway, this is where you can find us every other Wed. afternoon.

2009-01-12T10:06:00.001-08:00

Man, I have been so busy to even blog about our HS adventures! Sorry! We started back to school last Mon. Things have been going pretty smooth! Yeah! We are reading *So Far From Home* from the Dear America series. DS & I are reading *The Trumpet of the Swan*(DD loves to listen along). I am slowly easing into CM. We have started studying Mary Cassatt. Next week I think I'll bring in poetry.

This morning DS wanted to skip ahead a few pages, in math, to the test. Okay sure, if you think you're ready. He did the first half. The second half totally stumped him. He knows how to do it. He just thinks too much and then forgets everything. Long story short. We closed our books. I took a shower then we went for a bike ride. DD does NOT like bike riding at all. So we cut my regular route a bit short. Poor thing has NO fat to burn, but muscles that need to be built. DS has been riding with DH on much harder rides then mine, so he was wanting to go longer. Again our DC are so different. We are on lunch break and will go back to Lang. Arts and Mary Cassatt after.

Soapbox Warning and an Important issue!

2009-01-08T06:29:00.000-08:00

This is the second time I'm come across this in 24 hours. At first I didn't know what to think of it. I don't care what you political stance is, folks were are talking about books here. I am really still trying to grasp this. We are in America and they want to stop selling books!!!! I fear if this does go through, what more is to come? Ok I will stop here and let you read the email I got from a fellow homeschooler. (I deleted much of my ranting.)

The Sale of Children's Books to be Banned---
Oh, how I wish this were a joke! But it is a grim and looming, almost Orwellian, reality.
Effective February 10th, in the United States, the sale of all children's books (books intended for children ages 12 and under) is to be PROHIBITED. Every single book printed prior to the ruling is affected, whether new or used. New books in production are required to include a "lead-free" certification and will be the only books that are legal to offer for sale. What does this mean to the homeschooling family? Well, for one, curriculum fairs across the country will be cancelled as book vendors scramble to figure out how to comply with the new ruling. Complete book inventories will have to be destroyed -- the ruling even prohibits giving away the books! Local thrift stores will be hard hit -- most will likely have to close their doors -- yes, even Goodwill and Salvation Army. Clothing, toys and books -- even CDs and DVDs are included in the ruling. Thrift stores will no longer be able to accept or process anything (including clothing) that would be intended for a child. No more library sales. Libraries will not be permitted to give away or sell book donations. It is unsure yet, however, how the libraries' shelves themselves will be impacted (the ruling doesn't explicitly mention "loaning" books, just selling or giving them away). The key word, however, is "distribution" --libraries may well be required to destroy books from their shelves.(The ruling that originally passed was about toys, but the EPA has since made a statement that clothing, books and media are included in "children's toys".) Just how serious is this new law? Amazon.com has already notified all vendors of their need to comply. No book can be sold at the Amazon site that was printed prior to compliance. And the "compliance" must be coordinated at the manufacturing stage. At the time of this article there is no clause to be able to grandfather- in older books or even rare out-of-print books. It can cost between $500 and $1500 to test a book for lead. I happen to own a children's bookstore specializing in living books from the 1950s and '60s. My punishment for selling a book after February 10th? Up to $100,000 and 5 years in jail. And yes, it is a felony charge. For selling a SINGLE book. (Although I don't think the S.W.A.T. team scenario would become a reality overnight, at the same time I would be leery of blatantly violating Federal law.) So what can you do to help save your local used bookstore that sells children's books? Or that homeschool curriculum business? Or your EBay business selling children's items? ACT NOW before the quickly approaching deadlines: 1) Email or call the CPSIA - the office of the CPSC ombudsman at888-531-9070. http://www.cpsc. gov/cgibin/ newleg.aspx Comments on Component Parts Testing accepted through January 30,2009. Or email: Sec102ComponentPart sTesting@ cpsc.gov
2) Contact your local representatives. For their contact informa-tion, just enter your zip code.http://capwiz. com/americanappa rel/dbq/official s/
3) Make your voice heard by voting on this issue! The top 3 in each category will be presented to President-elect Obama.http://change. org/ideas/ view/save_ handmade_ toys_from_ the_cpsia
4) Sign the petition. http://ipetitions. com/petition/ economicimpactso fCPSIA/index. html5) Spread the word! Forward this article. Send an email. Write about this on your blog. Tell others about this issue and encourage them to do the same.---For the complete story, read the following links:http://www.cpsc. gov/about/ cpsia/cpsia. html Consumer Product Safety Commission Summaries on Legislation Index page for Children's Products Containing Lead; Lead Paint Rule and other rulings http://www.cpsc. gov/about/ cpsia/legislatio n.html#summaries Office of the General Counsel FAQ on retroactive inventory requirements -- The use of forward effective dates appears to force current inventories to adhere to the ruling on February 10th, 2009 http://www.cpsc. gov/about/ cpsia/summaries/ 101brief. html Specific FAQ on their interpretation of books and other media to be included in the testing of lead based products http://www.cpsc. gov/about/ cpsia/faq/ 101faq.html Effective Date: Lead content limit of 600 ppm becomes effective 180 days after enactment. An advisory opinion regarding the application of the new lead limit to inventory existing at the effective date can be found on our web site at http://www.cpsc. gov/library/ foia/advisory/ 317.pdf
Getting the Lead out: There is no lead in children's bookshttp://news. bookweb.org/ news/5695. html
There is no lead in Children's books: From a Pedtricianhttp://health. yahoo.com/ experts/childhea lth/3955/ is-there- lead-in-baby- books/

2009-01-05T07:12:00.000-08:00

Since I didn't have a post yesterday I'm giving you two Hide and Seek photos.

Today we start back in school. The kids actually had a week & a 1/2 off. It feels good to get back on schedule. On a different note. I'm thinking about using some of Ambleside Online next year, a CM style curriculum. Anyway, they suggest starting kids out two years back. After looking at the book lists, etc. Our DC are only 1 year back! I'm going to hold off getting any of the books for a few months, maybe they won't be behind. You know (I think every HSing mom feels this way), I think sometimes "Am I teaching them enough?", etc. So finding out that I didn't have to start the kids two years back was a GREAT relief to me!

Hide and Seek Series

2009-01-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

New photo Series

2009-01-02T20:21:00.001-08:00

My new series is called Hide and Seek.

I wish I could say that I could this myself, along with the photos to come.

To All Of the Moms

2008-12-27T11:19:00.000-08:00

This is a GREAT video. We hear it all of the time on a kid's radio program on Sat mornings.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxT5NwQUtVM&feature=related

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T07:27:00.000-08:00

I want to wish each of you a VERY Merry Christmas! Thank you for reading my blog/s!

Mama Grinch

2008-12-22T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's the first day of Christmas Vacation for the public schools here and probably all over America. Here at our house...We are having school (part of the time). I know, I know. So for the next two weeks I am the Grinch!! They will have days off, just not a full two weeks.

So in honor of my Grinchiness, here's a song for ya!

You're a mean one Mama Grinch.

You make your kids do school.

How could you be so evil.

How could you be so crueeeelll!

Mama Grinch!!

2008-12-20T09:06:00.000-08:00

As you know long division has been a bit of a bear for DS. I have tried many different things. Anyway, the light has come on!!! I believe he's gotten it! Here he is working out the problem.
Notice it's money...which used to throw him.

Did I do it right?.....

YES!!!!! This makes it all worth it!

In other news. My dear friend, Anne wanted to to print out the Word by Word Story that the kids and I wrote.

The Mad Scientist Strikes Again

Today when I opened the window I saw that our yard was very, very strange. A man was wearing a purple hat, with a bag that stunk up the whole neighborhood. He was standing in a boiling pool from sobbing because he lost his book about bombs. Then he started banging on our door. I did not know why he was doing this thing. My dogs and the neighbors had noticed the smell and came to my rescue. When they came they captured the strange man. he went to the kitchen to tell why he had put the bomb in the tree to see what would happen. He was sorry that he was going to blow up the tree. We invited him over for chicken. The End.

This is what happens when you put a 10 yo boy, 12 yo girl and a mom together to write a story! LOL!! Again, this game is only to get the kids to love, interested in writing. we didn't correct spelling, etc.

We just did another writing game. The name escapes me.

Here's how it works:

Everyone thinks of something (animal, place, food)

Then we ask each other questions that can only be answered with Yes or No.

For example:

Subject is places. Q. Do you have to fly to your place?

Subject animal: Q. Does your animal have fur?

They wanted to do this game for awhile. We did 3 subjects.

Next we may try an arguing game. (Which they've been doing lately.)

In this game you have to argue your point. There is a judge.

You pick a topic ex. why Dogs/Cats make a better pet.

Then each of you write down 10 or so reasons to prove your point.

The judge then picks the winner.

Using the Force!!

2008-12-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

The kids and I did our first "Nature Walk" yesterday. It went okay. They were not all to excited about it. I am slowly implementing the Charlotte Mason Method. Anyway, here's a photo I took of the Sleeping Indian. We also collected seeds that we will put into our nature book today.
Onto math. I am going to order Math-U-See for both kids today!! DS is really having a hard time with long division. So I took a step back the other day a went back to simple division. But this time we used the "force"!!! Haha! We used Legos and Star Wars Legos as manipulatives. He had a blast. I told him that there were so many kids and there was so many Legos. Divide the legos amongst each kid. We did have remainders too.

Icing & Icicles

2008-12-16T07:07:00.000-08:00

Here's another one for you. Ok, here's a photo of the cake C made for history. It's called Yogurt Cake with Honey frosting.

It is the last piece. It went fast. J wants me to make it again. It's different but really good. It really sticks on you...all the honey!

Oh, do you have any ideas for photo series you'd like me to do?? Please tell me and I'll do my best.

Icicle

2008-12-15T09:46:00.000-08:00

2008-12-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

Okay...the dog is not part of the series, but he's just too cute not to show off. No this is not our dog. I need to remember this photo when I think it's too hot where we live! Yikes!

New Series

2008-12-11T19:55:00.000-08:00

Some of you have mentioned that you liked my clothesline series. So, I've got another for you. Icicles.

A Few Projects to Do!

2008-12-09T18:38:00.000-08:00

We are still here! I haven't forgot about you. I wanted to show you a few projects that the kids just did. The first one is a homemade Planetarium. It was for C's science but J wanted to make one too. Here's what you need:
Empty/clean salt carton or hot cocoa can, etc.
Nails of different sizes
marker
Hammer
Flashlight

Draw the constellations, stars (dots) on the bottom of can. (If using salt carton, you'll have to cut one end off.)
Use hammer and nails to make the hole for the stars.
When you're done shine the flashlight into the can. If using metal can you'll need to shine the light to the side of the can.

Was great fun. We're going to save it for a show and tell with other homeschoolers.

Next is a writing game.
It's called Word by Word. I got the idea from a library book.
Here's how it works. This is only to encourage kids to write so don't correct the spelling.

Works best with small group.

You'll need:
Writing paper
Pencil
Die

You start off by picking your title. Helps keep you focused on what to write about.
Each person takes turns rolling the die.
Whatever number you get is the number of words you can write.
So, J rolls a four, he writes four words. C rolls a one she adds one word. Then I roll a six and a write six words. Clear as mud?

It took us two days to write our story...The Mad Scientist Strikes Again. J had great fun and rolled right along with it. C who is 12 wanted to write her own thing. So she had a bit of trouble with being limited to what and how much she could write.

And last but not least is Solomon's Temple, made only as a ten year old will, with LEGOS!! What else is there?! This was for history. Picture by J too.

Oh, C made a very yummy cake (milk and honey) for her history project. I need to take a picture for you before we eat it all!

Weekend Clotheslines

2008-12-06T07:19:00.000-08:00

They do laundry in the Bahama's?

Looks like they haven't used their line in a little while.

We interrupt...

2008-12-04T11:27:00.000-08:00

We interrupt this scheduled clothesline post o actually talk about homeschool! We have changed things up a bit since vacation and it's working out great! Before we tried to do all of the subjects each day. Now we are doing "Block Scheduling" and really like it. So, every day we do Bible. M/W/F is Math and Lang. Arts, T/Th is Science and History. Doing math & science on the same day was too much. We do more work on each subject and everything is running very smooth. J actually is looking forward to doing Math and LA tomorrow! WOW!

Also, for his science we started a sketchbook. He had a hard getting a lot of the last few lessons. So we are doing a major review. So instead of Q&A he is making a book of his science facts.
Ex. Science (ecology) is the Web of Life, so he made a big web with yarn in his book. He has a chart of decomposers, consumers, producers & predators, etc. You get the idea. He LOVES it!

C is learning astronomy, and the night sky has been neat to watch. With Jupiter and Venus lined up under the moon. She is tracking star patterns in her book right now for about 30 days. We will check the same part of the sky every ten days to see how it changes.

Now, I must get off so I can take pics of them making their gingerbread house!

2008-12-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

2008-12-02T19:29:00.000-08:00

Here's one to hang your clothes on...

2008-12-01T19:31:00.001-08:00

I love the colors here! This jumped right out at me! And notice there are no clothes pins...must be a dry, warm day...ahhh... Either they have a bunch of kids or don't eat much! LOL!

A thing of Beauty!

2008-11-30T21:44:00.001-08:00

I love looking at photos of everyday things. When I looked up clothesline for an idea I had I was surprised to find so many beautiful photos! I'm going to share these with you. Hopefully you won't get bored!

I love the simplicity with this one and love the colors.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-21T06:52:00.001-08:00

We are going out of town for a bit more than a week. So, I wanted to wish you all a

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Best All-around Husband

My husband never ceases to amaze me with his sense of humor and his stability. He is a hard working man who loves God and us!

Best Avoid the Camera Gal

Our Daughter does not like to have us take her picture. But our camera is full of self portraits by her!! LOL! She is a very responsible young lady who is a BIG help around the house!

Best Smile, Cuddler

You can sense that my DH's funny gene got passed down. Our son is always there to make you smile and to give you a hug!

A Few "Myths"

2008-11-20T08:15:00.000-08:00

Since, we've started homeschooling we've come across some misconceptions about homeschooling life, albeit, most of them honest. This by no means is a rant (though I wanted to at times), only a clearing up of sorts. I totally understand that HSing is still very new to a lot of people.
1. No, our kids do not wear their pj's all day.
(I know some HSers do.) They have to get dressed before we start school. I am in my pj's for the first half of school...long story.
2. Yes & No, our kids get to sleep in. On most days I get them up at the same time. If they are sick or had a late night then I can let them sleep in a bit as needed.
3. Yes, we go to the public library to check out books. Someone, honestly, asked if for our library days we check out books from our own bookshelves. Honey, we are at the public library that they know us by name!
4. Yes, we get done most days by noon.
5. Yes, our kids get out and are able to socialize.
6. Won't it hurt them being around "Mom" all day? Our son benefited from being at home with "Mom" all day. When we brought him home from public school he actually became more boyish.
7. "Wow! I wish I was homeschooled. So I could play all day." Our kids have heard that more then once. For the record, they do get to play more then they did when in PS but they also have more chores and they have a full school load as well.
8. No, they don't have homework. Or you could say, it's all homework.
9. Yes, you can get an F. But it is rare and we can go over it right then and there, take time to relearn it. You do have to score higher the get A's, B's, etc.
There is probably more, but I won't labor you any further!

Do I have to...

2008-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

"Do we have to do school today?" says Mom, in her head.

DD woke up on the wrong side, spilled breakfast...

Laundry's piled high on the couch...

I am fighting a head cold...

Time is going by fast already...

It's Tuesday and all I can think about is vacation...

I just want to curl up on the couch and read today...

But we need to do school, though I totally feel like this baby!

My "Mom" help - HS Memoirs #13

2008-11-12T11:16:00.000-08:00

This is response to a post at The Homeschool Post.

Sometimes people ask me how do I do it all. Do I get tired of being around the kids all day. (Not most of the time.)

I am a person who loves her alone time, so is was an adjustment to bring the kids home from public school to homeshool. But the benefits far outweigh the price.

I do need to have "me" time. What do I do to unwind? I Digiscrap!! And I blog. Digiscrapping helps me create memories and it has really become a big hobby of mine. Blogging is like keeping a journal. Helps me "talk" and get my thoughts out.

For this assignment we were to also tell what scripture helps us. Gosh, where do I start? So here are a couple!

Each from Psalms

3:3-5 But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts my head. I cried to the Lord with my voice, and He heard me from His holy hill. I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustained me.

16:5 O Lord, you are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot.

And Psalms 91

Have a Great day!

Woo Hoo Wednesday!

2008-11-12T06:27:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know today is supposed to be "hump day" and that I would like to have some sort of "themes" to my posts. Soooo...I changed up Wednesday a bit. It was Web Wed. where I'd give you a cool web site...well, I don't know enough sites. LOL! So, (for now) I'm going to try to have jokes, quizzes, news tidbits, whatever, etc.
I found a quiz for you!
It's called Average Middle School U.S History
It's pretty easy.
I got a 9 out of 10 and the one I missed, it was like "Oh yeah!"
Good luck!
We don't have much going on today. So we are going to "hit" the books hard. I do need to run to the store for milk and the like. Church tonight! Have a great day!

Happy Veteran's Day!

2008-11-11T06:45:00.001-08:00

History Alive!

2008-11-05T12:37:00.000-08:00

We had a long day today. Really needed to get things done. The kids are still working on history. (it's 1:40) We are at the end of Egypt & the Exodus. Here are a couple of shots of them working on history. J's painting the parting of the Red Sea.

(sorry for the slant here.) C is doing a comic strip on the confrontation between Pharaoh and Moses.

I will post pictures of the finished products.

They have also been studying presidents. We found a great book at the library. They each picked one newer/older president and tell me about them. This is not for grades, just for learning, familiarizing, etc. I want to them to learn to learn, if that makes sense. Just knowing facts is one thing, but if you know how to learn then you can learn anything.

I think J is really getting the concept of multiplication!! Seems like we have been doing so much that our brains hurt!

History Comes to life

2008-10-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

***Added note at the bottom***
We are learning about Egypt and the Exodus in History. The kids got to pick their project. They picked Unleavened bread. They followed the recipe and pretty much made them their selves. They even took these pictures. Not bad, but we are still working on photography.

Unleavened bread tastes similar to tortillas.

***We tried these after a few days, and they were really hard to eat. Much better out of the oven. They got the feel like they were microwaved a few times. In the lesson, we were told not to complain, like when God gave His people manna!***

A Site for Ya

2008-10-21T10:28:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a nice site for all of you fellow homeschoolers. You may already know about it. It The Homeschool Lounge. I started going there a little before this school year. There's tons of helpful ladies. It's basically a place where you can go and ask questions, get encouragement, encourage others, read reviews, etc. Time doesn't allow me to go there often, but when I can it's always worth it. I also have a page, a "nook" there. It's not very active, but it's F5 The Refresh Button. Let me know of you go and check the site out!

Class Pictures

2008-10-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

We got some pictures taken of the kids for "School Pictures". Here is our "class" picture. I don't want to show you all of the photos...you may get some for presents!

Our Schedule

2008-10-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

I know that every HSer's schedule is different, but I wanted to share ours. It is not a shedule that is on the dot. So keep in mind that the times are more on the -ish side! LOL!

We are on day 49.
Start @ 8:00 am
We almost always do Math first.
8:30 - 9:00-ish we start Language Arts
I try to get into the shower no later than 9:30. Sometimes it doesn't happen until 10:00.
During my shower Jared practices his drums for 15 min., 10 min break & then reads out loud to C. C reads and prays during that time until J gets her to read. He'll read until I'm ready to start back with school.
10:00-ish We start science or finish LA if needed.
11:00 is lunch.
the time for lunch break varies on how much we need to get done that day.
After lunch we do history/bible. Sometimes we are able to start this before lunch. The kids will sometimes work on their history for more than an hour, when they have projects. They love doing these.
Most days we are done by 12:30 - 1:00

Every other Wed. we go to the public library. Every other Mon is grocery/errand day so we have a much shorter schedule, usually just math and LA. We throw other things in there too.

Visual Velcro

2008-10-14T12:15:00.001-07:00

I wanted to give you an update on how the Right Brain teaching is going. I am still learning how to teach the right-brainer, but here's some spelling tips. These have made a HUGE difference. It's all called Visual Velcro.

Here the words that J has gotten wrong are spelled out on old church concert tickets.
The letter he got right are in black.
The letters wrong are in green (whatever color you want.)
The sneaky, tricky, silent letters are given drawings, more colors, etc. to make them stand out.
As you can see above refrigerator has many different things going on. We started out with a little bit of visual velcro, and have added as needed. The green are the misspelled letters, the blue wavy lines are cold air under them. The red divides the sections of the word. The red around the "ator"are supposed to be lips "eating" that part of the word "ATE or". J drew the gator - ator. The orange are the letters he kept forgetting time after time.
Any visual velcro you can think of helps. J comes up with his own many times. Right Brainers are very visual and take pictures with their brains.

Also, here's how we practice. After writing the words. I hold them up. (My elbow is on the table, my hand is up in the air.) "Look and the first and the last letters and any funny letter." I instruct. After a few seconds. I put the card down. J keeps looking up at his "screen" to see the word in his head. We do this up and down with each word until he gets it. (Usually now more then five times.) We try to do this with each word everyday. The words that he doesn't get right I keep in and the right ones I take out at the end of the week.

These spelling words are kept in a baggie clothes pinned to our dry erase board. We also keep our Sentence rules, -ing rules there too. We use some visual velcro here too.
I hope this has helped. It may seem like a lot of work on your part, but it is fun and they really get into it. You won't have to do this forever. They will start to get it and make pictures for themselves in their mind automatically.

We have done the visual velcro with C too. She uses it a lot in test taking, review.

Tiny "Miracles"

2008-10-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

I must say that today was some what non-typical. However, one thing that stood out is our son. Normally, he doesn't want to read let alone out lout. Today in history, we had to read the Bible. He volunteered right away. He read a whole chapter. And he read really good. I love these "small" miracles!

Substitute Teacher

2008-10-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

Man, it's been awhile since I've blogged on this blog. Sorry! I have been busy. Right now DH & DS are gone they went to a men's discipleship class, out of town and DD is playing with friends. Onto school. Today DH played substitute teacher for me for a few of the "classes". He worked the night shift, so he was home today. I had errands, grocery shopping to do and he offered to help me out. What a swell guy! You know as I was putting on my shoes to leave, I was listening to DH in the kitchen teaching our children. My heart fell in love with him even more. Here's a man dressed in grubbies getting ready to work on the truck (again), with his "do rag" on and yet he stops to take time to teach our children and to help out his wife. I am truly blessed. I won't be forgetting today for awhile!

Sorry to get all sappy on ya!