Where Has The Time Gone?

I looked at my blog today and was shocked to see that my last post was on September 17th! We have been happily busy over here in the "No Idle Bread" household and I must say that God is good. Here is a bit of an update . . .



My children have been working diligently at their school work and chores around the house. They are really reading everything they get their hands on! LOL I usually try to read a few chapters ahead of them if it's a book I even read yet. But I can barely stay ahead of them! According to the kids, they are having fun and I am blessed by that. Here are some books we've been reading. . .

 

 

 

 

 

My little baby boy is a few days shy of 10 months old and WOW has time flown by! He is trying so desperately to walk. My 3 older children didn't walk until after their 1st birthdays, and none of them crawled. This little guy, on the other hand, is crawling EVERYWHERE, pulling up on EVERYTHING and is even climbing the stairs!!! He definitely keeps me on my toes. :o)

The weather has changed and fall is certainly in the air. I've decorated my home for the season--I love fall! It is my favorite season--pumpkin spice, candles, apples, baking, orange/red leaves, my favorite tea. . .just a few things I usually enjoy about this season. Some things I haven't yet delved into like I've wanted (such as baking and apple picking), but hopefully I will soon.



I've been crocheting a fall wrap to wear this year and I'm just about finished with it (see below). I also hope to soon crochet a few toys for my girls as Christmas presents (teacups, pastries, dolls, etc.).







My dear Husband is also doing well. Often us Moms talk alot about home and children, but hubby is special, too! ;o) He's been working so hard and I am encouraging him to take a vacation. I am so blessed to have a man who works hard to provide for his family. But, I have to remind him that God approves of rest when we need it, and that taking a break isn't being lazy. My sweetheart, he knows that and he's working on it! (LOL)



Well, I hope to have more to share in the coming days. . .





Linked with:

READ MORE - Where Has The Time Gone?

Curriculum Choices 2012-2013

This year, we have 4th grade, 2nd grade, and Kindergarten. We will be utilizing our local library throughout the year for Literature, Science, Health and History supplements. I also have a few other resources on hand for use with my kindergartner. (The grade levels in parenthesis just indicate which child I am using the materials with.) One last note: We use The Well-Trained Mind as a curriculum guide, feeling free to add and omit as needed.



English/Grammar

Rod & Staff: Building with Diligence (4th)

First Language Lessons, 2 (2nd)



Phonics/Reading

Plaid Phonics by Modern Curriculum Press, Level B (K)

The Ordinary Parent's Guide to Teaching Reading (K)



Writing

Writing Strands:

Books 3 & 4 (4th)

Book 2 (2nd)

My Printing Book (K)

Printing Power (K)

Zaner-Bloser Penmanship Books 2C (2nd) and 4(4th)



Spelling

Spelling Workout (2001 Editions):

Levels B & C (2nd)

Levels D & E(4th)



Math

Math-U-See:

Primer (K)

Beta (2nd)

Delta (4th)



History

Biblioplan Family Guide Year 2 (Medieval-All)

Story of the World, Volume II (All)



Science

Physics Experiments for Children (4th)

Encyclopedia of Our World (2nd)

Encyclopedia of Space (2nd)

Night Sky Spotter's Guide (2nd)

First Encyclopedia of Science (K)



Latin

Latina Christiana (4th)



Music

Piano (2nd & 4th)

Flute* (4th)





I ordered most of these items from Rainbow Resource Center, where most homeschooling items can be purchased at a discounted price. However, as a courtesy to the companies, I've linked directly to their sites, if available. I ordered the following items directly from each company: Biblioplan, Math-U-See, Zaner-Bloser, and Rod & Staff. Biblioplan is also offered at Rainbow Resource Center for a small discount, but ordering directly frm Biblioplan ensures that I can receive free updates to any of the materials I've purchased.



I know this information may be a little late, considering most homeschoolers are in full swing by now. But, hopefully it can still be of help to someone out there!





*We are blessed to receive lessons from a local university student who is a Music Education major. She has been a blessing to my daughter who is having so much fun learning the flute. This might be something to check out in your area because it is a great, cost-effective way to have private lessons!

READ MORE - Curriculum Choices 2012-2013

School is Underway

Hello friends!!



The children and I at Chelmont Academy Homeschool just completed our 1st week this school year! We have had a good week.



We started off the week with a trip to the doctors office. . .all is well, but such is life!

Then, Tuesday through Thursday, we tried to establish a bit of a new routine and it's been going pretty well. My oldest daughter (4th grade) is becoming more independent in her work, especially in English. My youngest daughter (2nd grade) has improved nicely with her Spelling. Both girls are beginning a new writing program (just because writing is their "thing!") and they are enjoying it so far.

My oldest son is officially in kindergarten this year and he is trying to convince me that playing the computer and the Wii are great ideas for school work! LOL In other words, he is still transitioning a bit, since he has more of a structured day. But overall, he is doing well and is SUPER excited about Math. He wants to keep going and going and that is fine by me!

On Friday, we took a break from Grammar, Math, History and Science, to focus on a few other things. We talked about the digestive system (Health) and we listened to a Kids' Song CD ("If You're Happy and You Know It," "Whistle While You Work," "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," etc.) more for my son's sake, but the girls joined in and began to dance and get a little silly. It was fun, though!



We finished our Friday up with an art project--the kids made robins from their footprints. I found a site through Pinterest with art projects made from either hand prints or foot prints. Lots of fun. It's so neat how every one's pictures turned out differently. This is not one of ours, but it's an example from the site.





Then to round out the week, Daddy surprised everyone with a trip to Six Flags! The kids were SUPER THRILLED because that was a major item on their summer bucket list. They had so much fun and my oldest daughter even conquered a few rides that she wouldn't have dreamed of going on before. There were smiles on every face and lots of laughter. Even the baby was so content to be pushed around the park in the stroller, getting to have a taste of Mommy's Slurpee every now and then. I think the highlight of the day for the kids was the water ride. At first the kids stood on a bridge to get splashed from the water ride as the boat went by. Once they were soaked, they thought, let's just get on the boat, too. Oh, boy! It was so funny to see their faces and hear those screams and giggles! It was a great family day. We all slept very soundly that Saturday night. (Sorry, no pictures. . .I forgot the camera!)



So there you have it, a bit of an update from my home to yours. More updates to come!

READ MORE - School is Underway

It's Been A While

Hello out there in the blogosphere!! It's been a while since I've written, so here's a bit of an update.



The "No Idle Bread" family and I have been busy tying up summer's loose ends.



My children swam every week, twice a week this summer and they are doing SO very well. I'm so glad they are gaining such a valuable life skill. We will pick swimming back up in September, but will enjoy a few weeks off.



Our Chelmont Academy Summer Schedule went well! We had school 2-3 times a week, really focusing on Reading and Math, with bits of Ancient History sprinkled in. We will take the upcoming week off before we resume our regular homeschooling schedule.



My children got to cross many things off of their Summer Bucket List, including: eating watermelon, camping at Grandparent's, ice cream, getting soaked with the hose, playing in the rain, making popsicles and ice cream, roller skating, chasing butterflies, and going to the movies. Since summer is not officially over yet, I'm hoping that we'll get to cross off a few more things.



This coming week, I will go to the store to stock up on paper, pencils and other school supplies. The public schools will begin tomorrow, so I'm hoping that I've avoided the major crowds. I'll also be piecing together a schedule of sorts (in pencil, of course!) for the way our days will flow, now that we have an official kindergartner in our school! I've been poring over our curriculum materials and I am praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance in directing my children. (I'll post our curriculum choices soon!)



We've weathered a few storms in our lives this summer, both literally and spiritually. But this Truth still remains: God's Grace is greater than ANY problem I'll ever face. He has been so faithful to me and to my family. . .I can never repay Him for what He's done for me. So grateful.



Happy End-of-the-summer to you all!

READ MORE - It's Been A While

Brownies, Chick-Fil-A, and a Generator

In my life this week…

God is showing me how to trust in Him. As a song once said, "I'm leaning, depending on Jesus, every step of the way. . ."

Also, we are having a generator installed (as I type this). The black out we experienced early last month was such a doozey for our family, my husband could take it no longer. The power always goes out in our area--just let one little wind gust come through and it's over! But this time around, we lost so much food, gas stations were running out of gas, hotels were completely booked, grocery stores and restaurants were closed. . .it was pretty chaotic.

In our homeschool this week…

Lots of math. My girls are little math machines! And, we're continuing to learning about ancient Rome and Julius Caesar. Caesar was one character! New materials for the upcoming year are starting to arrive in the mail--exciting!

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

We went to Chick-Fil-A on Wednesday to show our support for a Christian who was unashamed to share his religious convictions concerning a Biblical definition of marriage--one man, one woman. My children and I went for lunch and my husband went after dinner. We were both supported and attacked for our actions. But, our conviction about marriage remains. . .God's Word cannot lie.

My favorite thing this week was…

Talking to my brother on the phone. We live in different states (13 hour drive!) and I miss him dearly.

What’s working/not working for us…

Scripture memory is working very well for all, including me. Memorizing the books of the Bible is going well, too. So far, we're all the way up to Ezra. It's amazing how much little ones can memorize!

Things I’m working on…

Trying to flesh out a new daily school schedule for the fall, since my little JR will officially be in kindergarten this year. I'm also trying to take the time to plan art, music, and health a bit more thoroughly than last year, especially art. It does NOT come naturally to me, but my oldest has natural talent. So she's pushing me to stay on top of things! 

I’m crocheting…

A little bag that I can use to store all of my grocery bags in. I reuse and recycle all plastic shopping bags, but I need a better way to store them.  The pattern is originally meant to hold a 2-liter soda bottle, but I thought it would be great for the plastic bags. I'm making the one on the left, except I'm using all blue.

"Americana Evaporative Beverage Cooler"

from lionbrand.com.

I’m cooking…

The girls and I made brownies! We got the recipe from Pinterest and it's so yummy. The only thing I would change is the salt--I'd halve it or ditch it altogether, but other than that, it's a keeper. More than half the pan is gone and we just made them Wednesday night! Go HERE for the recipe.








This pic is from the original recipe blog post.

Don't they look good?

I’m grateful for…

so many things; if I had ten thousand tongues it still wouldn't be enough to say, "Thank You, Lord!"

I’m praying for…

my Dad.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

Heather @ The Blessings Pour Out has a homeschool for free website that has many great resources.

READ MORE - Brownies, Chick-Fil-A, and a Generator

Busyness and a Birthday

In my life the past couple of weeks…

There seemed to be a lot of busyness. Just regular errands, grocery shopping, doctor's appointments, helping my husband in the yard, laundry, etc. It seems like we were trying to get things back on track after having lost power for so long. We finally got someone to come out and cut down our tree that was damaged during the storm. The great thing about it was that the tree company shredded the tree and gave us all of the wood chips from it. My husband was thrilled about that because that saved us a good chunk of change that would have been spent on buying mulch. The pile of wood chips was HUGE!

We all pitched in to help my husband lay the mulch around the various bushes and trees in our front and back yards. After that there was still enough left over for a friend of ours to load up the back of his pick-up truck so he could use it in his yard. After that, there was still enough for my father-in-law to take 3 loads in my husband's pick-up truck to use at his mother's house. After that, there is still enough left over that my husband's friend wants to come back for another load. We are thankful for the way God has blessed us to give and share.



We also planted a new tree in place of the old one. We planted a Crepe Myrtle that will blossom pink.

In our homeschool this week…

We are progressing well considering many of the interruptions over the past few weeks. My oldest daughter is resuming Latin, which is fun. She is also taking flute lessons and she is super excited about that. My younger daughter is eager to begin reading Peter Pan. We listened to it on CD earlier in the year, but she wants to read it herself. My son is having a ball! What I am pleased about is his increased interest to read on his own. We are also beginning to memorize the books of the Bible.

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

1. If it works for you and your family, stick with it!

2. Consider joining online groups for homeschooling, such as Yahoo Groups. I joined one for a group in my area so I could know about local homeschool events and resources. I also joined another for Biblioplan, which we used for Ancient History. It's great because I can ask the authors questions about the materials before I make a purchase.

I am inspired by…

My children, who have learned at an early age how to swim. This is big for me, someone who is not a strong swimmer and who did not learn until adulthood. My son is still learning how to do rhythmic breathing, but he has no fear of the water. My girls just blow me away. Both of them are now able to swim the length of the pool, freestyle and backstroke, without assistance, in deep water!!!  I don't think they realize how much they are teaching their Mama about swimming and conquering fears. I am so glad that they have a life-saving skill.

My favorite thing from a week ago was…

My son turned 5!!!!!! His only request: a dark blue birthday cake! LOL So we certainly obliged. Did Mama make a cake from scratch? Nope, not this year! My husband picked out a dark blue cake that even had the Avenger's superheroes on it!

The Avengers decoration actually lights up!

Now my son plays with it all the time.









My sweet boy, JR. . .











being goofy. . .











and really silly! LOL











This is one of the shirts my parents sent him for his birthday.

He ran upstairs to change into it, and asked me to take a picture.

This is the pose he struck! Funny!

What’s working/not working for us…

We do bible study at breakfast, before school starts. We've been using a book called The Wonder Devotional Book 1, that our church gave to my girls upon accepting Christ and being baptized. It's good because it covers meaty topics which is great for the girls' developing faith, but it is given in bite-sized pieces so that my son is not totally lost. (I don't know why I'm using food metaphors, but you know what I mean!) Anyway, what isn't working is that as soon as I begin to read from the book, the baby starts babbling. Loudly. And it is hilarious! So, we're working on that!

Things I’m working on…

Still finalizing my curriculum for the upcoming school year. I have most things squared away, just trying to find the best deals so the budget remains under control

I’m reading…

The Resurrection of Nat Turner by Sharon Ewell Foster

It is not an easy topic, the subject of slavery in our country. But it is one that must be told, in truth, in the Light of God's Word. Ms. Foster does that quite well; so far so good.

I’m cooking…

I made deep dish pizza for lunch today, using my cast iron skillet. Yummy!

I’m grateful for…

Prayer with my husband.

I’m praying for…

The people of Colorado.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

"Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." -Romans 12:2 (New Living Translation)

This particular translation of this verse really struck a chord with me.

READ MORE - Busyness and a Birthday

Thunderstorms = No Electricity

In my life this week…

We were without electricity from Fri. 6/29 until Wed. 7/5. A major thunderstorm with hurricane speed winds paid our region a visit on Friday. We live in a neighborhood with lots of mature trees and those trees knocked down utility poles and power lines all throughout our city and state. Restaurants and stores were closed, traffic signals were out, hotels (that were up and running) were completely booked. And to top it off, we haven't had a day under 95 degrees in about 2 weeks. It was stressful in many, many ways. The tree in the front yard suffered some damage and we had a few stray limbs in the back yard. Considering the magnitude of the storm, we are so blessed. I am so thankful that my family is well and my home isn't damaged. God is so good.

Pictures of the fallen tree limb in my front yard:

The lighter green leaves you see in the center, at the top

are actually from my neighbor's tree.

Our tree looks a bit weird because it is so thin at the top.



This lamp post is about 15 feet away

from the trunk of the tree. This branch

is pretty big.

In our homeschool this week…

Well, not much schooling going on this week. We managed to squeeze in a few math worksheets and some reading. . .lots of reading, actually.



I am inspired by…

Crochet patterns! I receive various crochet patterns by email from Lion Brand Yarn and I've found some neat things on Pinterest, too. They are inspiring me to begin a crochet project. I usually do my crocheting during the cooler months, but I for some reason, I'm ready to grab a hook and some yarn and go at it!! Here are some pretty pieces I'd like to try:



I'm hoping I have enough yarn on hand

to get started on this now.



This is really pretty.

This seems perfect for the fall.

This is actually a crochet/knit combo.

I can't knit well, but one day I'll tackle it!

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

This week was tough, but my in-laws came through for us. They only lost power for about 24 hours, so we were able to stay in their home while our power was out. It was such a blessing because it has been so hot and it was hard to keep everyone cool, especially the baby. It was great because it helped my children through a tough time, especially my son. Thunderstorms and no electricity don't just "bother him" but they really scare him. So the distraction of being at Grand-Dad and Grand-Ma's house was just what he needed.



My least favorite thing this week was…

Getting rid of most of the food in my refrigerator and freezer. It was such a painful process to see so much wasted. I'm sad about it because I keep wondering what I could have done differently to keep more. But with the temps soaring to about 100 degrees each day, the food spoiled so quickly. Husband is in the process of trying to get a stationary generator installed so that we don't waste this much food again.



Questions/thoughts I have…

Wondering about the next school year. I'm still piecing together my curriculum choices. I'm also wondering about ways to help implement a bit of independence in our school days...I'm not sure. I've heard of people doing "work boxes" and having everything laid out for the school year ahead of time. That way, the child is able to just grab all assignments for the day and work through them. Our schedule just doesn't flow that way. Any thoughts?





Things I’m working on…

I'm working on thinning out last year's school work (except for the really important things), and filing it way with our homeschool review forms. All you homeschool moms out there: How much school work do you keep each year? How do you file it all away? Do you file it away at all?



I’m reading…

The Resurrection of Nat Turner, Part One: The Witnesses by Sharon Ewell Foster. I signed up for the summer reading program at library, right along with my children! Sharon Ewell Foster is one of my favorite Christian, historical fiction authors.



I’m cooking…

Nothing much. Heating up left overs from when we ate out this week. We tried to purchase "family style" meals this week rather than "fast food" so that it would last us longer.

The inside of my empty freezer. :(

I’m grateful for…

My life, health, strength, my family and my home. . .and for electricity.



I’m praying for…

Those still suffering from the storm, my great-uncle who's in the hospital.



A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

A pretty song.

READ MORE - Thunderstorms = No Electricity

School Prep, Fun with Friends, and Father's Day Ideas







In my life this week…

We've enjoyed our last week of "no school" before starting our summer schedule. I've continued straightening and cleaning around the house. I created chore charts for the children--one for the boy and one for the girls because of the age differences. This will begin on Monday. I think only my oldest daughter is excited about that!

In our homeschool this week…

In preparation of summer school, I transferred most schooling items back into our school room. Since the baby was born, we've been schooling at our kitchen table. It's been 6 whole months. The calendar is still says December, December 5th to be exact. . .one day before my son was born. I miss it! My kids miss it, too! My husband worked really hard to get that little place all set up for us. Being in there today brought back many memories of the hot summer days full of drywall and paint and flooring. . .all in anticipation of our first year of homeschooling. So, the plan is to transition back into the school room next week.



Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

Another homeschooling mom and I were talking about co-ops, and how we both misunderstood the term. Neither of us was looking for an academically structured group to be a part of. In our area, so many homeschoolers are part of something like that, and I'm not against it. However, what this mom and I were looking for was something where homeschooling families got together once a month or so to let the children play, eat lunch, and moms could hang out and chat. . . just fun and fellowship with like-minded families. My tip: Don't forsake relaxed, "unstructured" fellowship with other families because it can be so encouraging and validating on a number of levels.



I am inspired by…

Routines and schedules. They generally work for me. Now, am I the best at it? No. Do I always stick to them? No. But it is extremely helpful to have something in place to judge my time against. I'm still working on getting into bed earlier!!!



Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

This week, we spent a day at a nature park with some new friends: another homeschooling mom and her children. It was a great day. The kids played on the playground, we saw the farm animals, had lunch, and went to the indoor nature center there, as well. It was good to talk with her and exchange ideas. Our children had a lot in common, namely horses, cats (well, any type of animals, really) and books. Neither of us remembered to bring a camera; I think we were too excited to share some time together!



My favorite thing this week was…

What I loved doing this week was working on Father's Day gifts! I created photo greeting cards with CVS online. They have great photo greeting cards for just $1.99 each, and you can pick them up same day. (So, there's still time for a last minute gift that's sure to please.) I made one for my husband, my dad, and my father-in-law. The kids' pictures were on the cards. Here are the pictures I used:

Our official "Homeschool Picture Day" photo.

You can't imagine the number of retakes there were!!!

The photographer snapped the shot just before

his hands went into his mouth!

JD's official "baby picture"--5 months

is better than not at all, right?!?

The kids and I also made this cool paper weight for their father:

Before baking

After baking

This is super easy. You make a salt dough, press pebbles (from the back yard!) in to spell out  your message. Then, bake it for a couple of hours and you've made a paper-weight! (Another last minute idea that costs $0.00!!) We added some food coloring to ours in daddy's favorite color. Go HERE for complete instructions.

We also made this:



Click HERE for the tutorial

Click HERE for photo credit/tutorial tips

And we filled out this printable--the kids' answers were so hilariously sweet:

I found this on Pinterest and unfortunately, the link I have for the source doesn't work.

I changed the year at the bottom to 2012. 

We had lots of fun making these gifts!!! There's nothing like heartfelt and homemade!



Questions/thoughts I have…

Kindergarten curriculum? U.S. history/facts for multiple ages?



I’m cooking…

I made a sour cream pound cake loaf for my husband, for father's day. I'm thinking of doing a cream cheese icing/drizzle or lemon drizzle or maybe lemon cream cheese. I'm undecided! Right now, the cake is wrapped up in a secret hiding place in the fridge. Since it's my first time making this particular cake, I'll have to try it first before I share the recipe. If it's a winner, I'll let you know!



I’m grateful for…

My husband's vision for our family.



I’m praying for…

My extended family.



A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

In honor of Father's Day:

This is SO true!!

I found this on Pinterest, too!

READ MORE - School Prep, Fun with Friends, and Father's Day Ideas

Break: Week 1

In my life this week…

I've been cleaning!!! I have been so glad to tackle my housework head on. I know that sounds strange--who wants to scrub toilets?! But, seriously, I'm glad to get my house in order again. No matter how many children you already have, having a baby changes everything!



In our homeschool this week…

We've completed week 1 of our 2 week break! No school work, but everyone does have to read each day. And, the girls still practice piano! The kids are really enjoying the break. They've been watching a few of their favorite shows and movies, playing lots of board games, pretending the laundry room is a clubhouse, eating popsicles at bedtime, and they even got to play outside again!



Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

Don't be afraid to take a break! I was, for fear that we wouldn't finish everything. When the baby was born, we took about 5 weeks off and I've felt like we've been behind ever since. But, we've worked hard and are due a bit of rest.



I am inspired by…

Christian wives and mothers who are willing to honestly share their journeys. . . there is so much to learn when we open up to each other.



Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

Pediatrician and ENT for baby JD. . .praise the Lord, he is well!



My favorite thing this week was…

I've been able to sleep in a few days this week, and getting back to more routine exercise.



What’s working for us…

A Scripture memory system, found HERE. We needed a better way to memorize Scripture and this works so well for us. This system, at first glance may seem complicated, but it really isn't. If you're looking to memorize Scripture, please check the site out; there's even a video explaining it all!



Things I’m working on…

Piecing together new curriculum materials for the next level. It's exciting this time around because I have a better idea of what works for us and what does not, and what I need to do differently. Year 2 of homeschooling, here we come!!!



I’m grateful for…

The love my Saviour has for me.



I’m praying for…

Husband, children, parents, brother.



A photo, video, link, or quote to share…



"Hiding God’s Word in your heart is not a race; it’s a lifelong habit."

READ MORE - Break: Week 1

School Year Winds Down







In my life this week…

I was very busy preparing for our homeschool portfolio review meeting. This can be stressful in many ways because I'm compiling materials, filling out forms, and lugging it all to the library for the meeting. Then to top it all off, there was some confusion about the day/time for my appointment and I ended up being double-booked with someone else. So, after about 2 1/2 hours I was finally able to get my portfolio approved and get back home. It went well, though, and I am thankful.

In our homeschool this week…

We are finishing up our first, official year of homeschooling!! I am so grateful for the way the Lord has brought us through and showed us a different path for educating our children. We will continue with a lighter schedule throughout the summer (continuing to focus on Bible, math, and grammar). But for now, we have declared a 2 week break!

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

Practice piano in the morning!! I found that works best for us, while I'm feeding the baby/cooking breakfast. The kids are fresh and willing to give it full attention. We used to do it at the end of our school day and I saw that by then, the kids were losing focus . . .or we began to neglect it. Also, everyone is wide awake. (Translation: No more interrupting baby's afternoon nap!)

I am inspired by…

...my children's developing faith in God.

Things I’m working on…

Since my sweet baby boy was born right in the middle of our school year, my house is in NEED of a good, thorough, top to bottom, room to room, deep cleaning. We've also been schooling temporarily in the kitchen since the baby was born, so I'm moving things back to the school room. The kids miss it in there. So, guess what I'll be doing during our 2 week break???????

I’m cooking…

...cream cheese biscuits. I found them on the beloved Pinterest!

Recipe & Photo Credit

 Also, my daughters and I are supposed to make berry smoothies tomorrow from a cookbook they got from the library. They're so excited! :)

I’m grateful for…

...every blessing God gives.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

My boys :)



Photo Credit



READ MORE - School Year Winds Down

Saint George and the Dragon--Review Questions

My 1st grader and I read this story. I needed a few review questions for her, to help her summarize the story. I looked all over and couldn't find any that were age/level appropriate. So, I decided to make my own and post them here so they are available to others.

1. Who is the main character in this story? (Saint George of Merry England)


2. What other name (or title) does St. George have at the beginning of the story? (The Red Cross Knight)


3. What is St. George's mission? (The mission is to defeat the dragon who frightens the people of the town.)


4. Who goes with him on the mission? (The princess, Una, and a dwarf come with him on the mission. The princess brings her lamb, as well.)


5. When St. George battles the dragon, what does he have to protect him? Name as many things as you can think of. (St. George wears heavy armor and a helmet. He carries a shield, he has a spear, and a sword.)


6. Was St. George defeated or was he victorious? (St. George is victorious after several battles with the dragon. He does not give up.)


7. What happens to St. George in the end of the story? Does he keep his promise to the Fairy Queen? (Once the dragon is defeated, St. George and the princess get married. He keeps his promise to the Fairy Queen by going on brave adventures when she needs him to serve.)

There are several versions of this story.  Please be warned that the story does detail the battle, so if fighting knights and dragons don't sit well with you and/or your babes, then this is not the book for you.This version has lovely artwork that beautifully tells the story on its own. Many of the answers come from a combination of the story and the illustrations.



I found a unit study on Saint George and the Dragon at Homeschool Share. The unit study offers many parallels between St. George and wearing the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17), as well as some history on St. George, being a knight, and the meaning of the Red Cross and much more!



Hope this helps!!

READ MORE - Saint George and the Dragon--Review Questions

A Snake and My New Best Friend

So, the kiddos and I were in the back yard, tending to our vegetables. I thought I was so cool and clever, because I was able to double gardening with a science lesson for the day. We had been discussing plant life and various bugs that were helpful or harmful to gardens. I thought, "I'm going to round this lesson out with lettuce picking. I'll show them those big, fat juicy green caterpillars that eat little holes in the lettuce. We'll talk about the way God made those caterpillars green so that they blend so well with the lettuce." I just knew this was going to go so smoothly.

So, there we were picking lettuce. Every thing is going great! As is my habit, I let the dogs eat any leaves that are a little wilted or yellowing on the edges. They love it and think lettuce picking is really treat time for them. Well, while we're discussing the bugs we were finding, one of our dogs begins to run over to a corner of the yard and back to me . . .he keeps doing this, back and forth, with a bark each time. Now mind you, this little dog of ours isn't my 1st choice in a companion, and honestly he irks me most days. But he stays because my daughter would be heartbroken without him.



Anyway, I ignored him because he sometimes barks randomly at any and everything. So there I am talking bugs and plants, when my oldest daughter says, "Mommy, I don't know why Wimbley keeps barking. Maybe he wants you to give him more lettuce." I'm like, yeah probably so. So when I turn to offer him another piece, I see him run to the corner of the yard to bark at something. So I'm like, what is he barking at this time.



I go a little closer, and my first thought is, "Is that a vacuum hose? Why would my husband leave a vacuum hose curled up in the corner of the yard?" My next thought (very brief next thought) was what type of yard equipment would require a hose??? Then it clicks, "Stacie, you are staring at a black snake that is all coiled up." I do NOT tolerate snakes AT ALL, so in my head I screamed, "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"



But to my children I said, "Everybody inside now! Everybody inside now!" I didn't yell and scream and kick and run the way I wanted to, but my point was clear. They all went inside without a word. When we got inside, I was shaking and completely outdone by the nerve of a snake to show up in my back yard!!!! My daughter told me, "Mommy, I didn't know why you told us to go in, but when I heard your voice, I thought there could be danger." (Later, my mom told me that what my daughter said reminded her of the Scripture that says, "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." -John 10:27) Thankful for children who obey (most of the time)! :)



Well, a few panicky hours later, and after a phone call to animal control, I know now that the "Black Snake" is apparently not harmful or poisonous, and is common in our area (although we've lived here for 7 years and this is our first encounter). Apparently, this snake is good for catching field mice and the like. I also now know that it was apparently coming out to warm itself in the sun, which is apparently normal this time of year. All of these "apparent" facts don't make me like the snake any more, and I never want to see it again, but at least the panicky shakes are gone. And eventually, one day, the kids can go outside to play again, eventually. LOL!!! I can laugh at myself now, especially the part when I asked myself, "Is that a vacuum hose?!" LOL!!!!



Meanwhile, I have forgiven Wimbley of all his "irk-iness." He's now welcome to stay in the family. Although I now know my fear of the snake was "apparently" unwarranted, I am so glad Wimbley was there to warn us. I know that he will try to protect us. . .even me, the one who has never really been too fond of him. Wimbley, my new best friend!!! ;)

READ MORE - A Snake and My New Best Friend

Conversations . . .

Whenever I am out and about with my children, the conversation begins. . .



So, is school out today?

Wow, you sure do have your hands full, don't you?

I bet you have a lot of "help," from your older kids, huh?

So, you homeschool????????



The question people really want to ask me is, Are you crazy?



Ladies, I have to say, I was just not prepared for this constant, on-going, reiteration of explaining myself and my situation to random people. I was just not prepared.



In this, our first year of homeschooling, God also graciously expanded our family. So, it seems like all at once, we became a homeschooling family of 4 children.



It is as though people can accept one or the other, but not both. It would be okay if I had 4 children, but only if I sent them to school. Or, it would be okay if I homeschooled, but with only 1 or 2 children. So to be with all 4 of my kids everyday shocks the socks off of many people, namely other women, many of them are also mothers . . .



Baby JD has had a grumpy ear, so I took him to the pediatrician. I've known the medical assistant since my oldest was 18 months old. And each time the Lord has given us more children, the more and more bewildered she becomes with our family. For the past few years though, one or both of my daughters were in public school, so when I came in, usually everyone wasn't with  me. But now, the gang's altogether again, plus new baby. I guess she reached her breaking point and so the conversation began.



Hands on her hips, skepticism in her eyes: "Will you ever let them go to school? I bet it's hard to homeschool 4 kids. Look at her," she says to a coworker, "she has 4 AND she homeschools. Do you want more? You just had them so close together. You can't even go out for a quick trip to the store, because you have to take everyone with you. None of your children can really stay at home by themselves. . ." These were just some of the things she said, in front of my children, of course.



So I replied with a question of my own: "Since they are my children, why wouldn't I want to be with them?" She was at a loss for words. I asked again, "Why wouldn't I want to be with my own children?" Again, a blank stare. (Thank You, Holy Spirit, because in that moment, His Grace fell down to usher in peace, because that was NOT what I was going to offer her. Thank You, Holy Spirit.)



Moving on, this time in God's Grace, I asked her to think about some things, from a different perspective. Why is it in our society we look so poorly upon the children God has blessed us with? Why is it that we have them, but can't wait to rid ourselves of them, looking at them as being so burdensome? I explained to her, that often times, we have to change our perspectives.



If I'm not wanting to be with my own kids for any length of time because they are "getting on my nerves," then perhaps it is me (the parent) that needs some readjusting. After all, children cannot give what they have not been taught (a quote from a friend of mine!). If I am not working with my gifts (teaching, training, discipline, etc.), then their behaviors will show it.



Gone are the days when I can be out of the house in 5 minutes and jump in my car to run an errand. I have accepted that it's going to take at the very least 15 minutes just to get everyone into the van, to run an errand that would have only take me 5 minutes if I was alone. I'm okay with that. I've welcomed that. I know that, so there's no need to be stressed about it. It's not a big deal in the grand scheme of things.



I explained that I will willingly receive however many children God gives me, because when you receive a gift, you say thank You, not turn it away. I explained that God opened our eyes to another way of educating our children, one where we are free to teach and promote our family's faith-based values. . .we're Christians, yes. I explained how homeschooling coincides with our daily living. . . it's part of life.



I explained, again; reiterated, again; answered questions, again. By the end of our conversation, her hands were off of her hips, there was a smile on her face, there was wonder in her eyes, because I don't think she'd ever heard that perspective before. . . .God's Grace.



I am praying that through this conversation, she would want to know more about the God who gives Grace to the strange lady who homeschools her 4 children and has the  nerve to bring all 4 of them to a doctor's appointment. I pray that God would help me to be kind, less defensive, not so frustrated with all of the questions, because if I can answer in a way that has brought Honor to His Name, and curiosity about His character, then I've done well. . .



So, baby JD ended up needing to be seen by an otolaryngologist (special ear/nose/throat doctor) and I had to take him directly down to the 2nd floor for that appointment. And guess what? The conversation began again. . ."My goodness, you have 4 children, huh?"



:o) God's Grace is sufficient!

My children on

Mother's Day 2012

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READ MORE - Conversations . . .