Sunday, January 31, 2010

How do I know what to teach?

That's the topic question for this week's Blog Cruise (a new weekly carnival/meme hosted by the TOS Homeschool Crew.)  It's actually a tough question for me, and one that requires a bit of thought before answering.  I can't just say "I know how to teach because . . ." or "This is what I choose to teach so you should use it too."  Instead, I'll just share a few points that have helped me to know what to teach, and when.  Hopefully they will help you too.

  • If you're new to homeschooling (or even if you aren't), let me say that it's ok to choose a boxed curriculum.  When we started homeschooling many years ago (when my now 10th grader was entering kindergarten), I purchased a boxed curriculum from Abeka.  I was familiar with it, having gone to a Christian school that utilized a lot of Abeka curriculum.  And, having something prepackaged assured me that I was "hitting all the bases".  It was a nice way to get started, and a good starting point.  We realized, after a few years, that everything from Abeka wasn't a good fit for Ashley (she uses nothing from Abeka anymore); some things (math) work great for Gracie and we continue to use that.
  • Go to your local homeschool convention.  I shied away from convention for many years. I was afraid I'd be overwhelmed by all that is available.  A good friend encouraged me to go; and I'm so glad she did.  I love convention now and can't imagine not going (as a matter of fact, this year I'm going to 4 conventions!)  If you've never gone, you'll be amazed by all that is out there for homeschoolers, and you'll also enjoy rubbing shoulders with fellow homeschoolers.  It's quite an experience!
  • One thing that I did when I was preparing to start homeschooling was to search for an online support group of like-minded people.  I found a message board for Christian homeschooling moms and I joined up.  Several of the ladies that I met on that board have  become some of my closest friends.  We still keep in touch online, and I've met several of them in person as well.  It's nice to have that support system - people that you know you can go to with your problems and/or questions and they won't judge you, but will answer you and help you.  
  • If you have a local support group and/or co-op, this might be a good option.  I don't have this as close as I would like, which is why I recommend the option above.
  • Read, read, read.  This is one of my personal favorites because reading and researching are both major hobbies of mine!  What should you read?  One great resource for homeschoolers is The Old Schoolhouse Magazine (and I'm not just saying that because I work for them - I was a subscriber long before I was an employee!)  Another is homeschoolers' blogs.  A great place to start is the TOS Homeschool Crew.  The Crew is a group of product reviewers/bloggers who review many of the latest and greatest products for homeschoolers.  
  • Join HSLDA.  Or, at the least, read their website.  They have some great resources.  I especially enjoy their information on homeschooling your high schooler. Check the laws for your state.  Make sure you're teaching what is required.
  • And the most important thing I can suggest - do what's best for YOU and YOUR KIDS.  Don't get caught up in what others are teaching/using.  Use what you like, and teach to your kids' strengths and interests.  Homeschooling can look different to each family - and it should!  My school shouldn't look like yours and vice versa.  That's one of the highlights of homeschooling! 


So how do YOU know what to teach?
Be sure to check out the Crew's blog.  Each week (on Tuesday), you'll find a brand new Blog Cruise topic and links to our answers.  Next week's question: How do you know if your kids are keeping up with their peers?

Saturday, January 30, 2010

25 years ago tomorrow . . .

. . . I finally became a sister.
(after being an only child for almost 15 years)

25 years ago --- my parents and I, along with our pastor and his wife and family, set out on a road trip to Newark, New Jersey to meet my brothers at the airport.  They were being escorted from Korea and we were so excited to finally meet them (after looking at their pictures and waiting for almost a year).  Little did we know the adventure that was about to begin . . .

I remember watching them walk down the hallway with their escort - two precious little boys who couldn't speak a word of English.  Their hair was matted down to their heads, and we would later discover why - they were both loaded up with layers of clothing, including pajamas, warm clothes (including wool sweaters) and heavy winter coats, which they must have worn during the entire flight. 

Just a short while after leaving the airport, we went to turn into a Dunkin' Donuts, when our car was hit on the left rear side.  The impact threw the car across several lanes of traffic, right into the parking lot of the donut shop.  Thankfully, we were disobeying the seatbelt laws - mom was holding Jonathan on her lap up front, and I was holding David in the middle of the back seat.  The side of the car smashed in far enough to hit my left leg and bruise it pretty badly.  The sleeve of David's brand new coat was ripped and full of glass.  He had a cut on his head that required stitches (in the ambulance).  Can you imagine what those little guys (at 5 and 7 years of age) must have been thinking?  Welcome to America!  The 5 of us piled into the back seat of our pastor's car, while his family of 4 squeezed up front for the several hour drive home.  Inconvenient; but it's the stuff memories are made of.

 
It's been an interesting 25 years, to be sure!  This evening, our family gathered together to celebrate the last 25 years.  We looked at lots of pictures, and took a lot of new ones.  We ate food, we laughed, and we talked.  We reminisced with our pastor and his wife.  We enjoyed each others' company.
The positive adoption experience of my brothers is what encouraged me, many years later, to adopt.  My family is what it is today thanks, in great part, to my brothers.  We don't always see eye to eye, but I hope they know that I love them!


 
Happy Anniversary!
Here's to another 25 years!

Friday, January 29, 2010

A Trip to the Ocean by John D. Morris

Riding the waves and exploring the depths, popular characters Tracker John and his sidekick, D.J., take us on a special exploration of the seas. This full-color children’s book helps us understand this mysterious frontier, while introducing young readers to a wide variety of God’s ocean creatures. A delightful children’s story with plenty of teaching information, this book will make an instant connection with kids. A study section can be found in the back of the book and includes terms, facts, and what the Bible says about the ocean.

John Morris, Ph.D., is president of the Institute for Creation Research in El Cajon, California and has a Ph.D. in geology from the University of Oklahoma. He is a popular speaker and author and in addition to his writing and research, has searched Turkey’s Mt. Ararat several times for Noah’s ark.


A Trip to the Ocean seemed like a perfect supplement for our science study this year.  (Gracie and I are working through the Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day book by Jeannie Fulbright and Apologia.)  We enjoyed adding this book into our school days.  We split it up and read it in shorter sections over a few days.

We enjoyed the story, the colorful illustrations, and the gospel message that is shared at the end.  It's hard to find books like this that don't include the whole "millions of years" theory. The fact that this one is based on Creation Science and has a great message for non-Christians, made this one a must-have on our bookshelf.

The Appendix at the end is PERFECT for homeschoolers!  It includes Interesting Facts About the Ocean (did you know that the oceans covers 3/4 of the earth?), Interesting Animals In and Near Tidepools (you'll enjoy learning more about abalones, starfish, sea urchins, and more), The Ocean's Biggest and the Smallest and the Fastest and the Oldest (there are some very interesting facts here), and What the Bible Says About the Ocean (with Scripture references for further study).

This book was received for free from New Leaf Publishing. My thoughts and opinions are my own and were not influenced by the publisher.

Thank you, Kylie!

My dear sweet friend - and honorary niece - made me this new button to go along with my new blog.  Isn't she sweet?  And talented?  I think she did a great job on it; but I'm not sure how many people would like to put this button on their blog because, well, my picture is on it!  So, I think she's going to create me an alternative button or two, which I'll share later.

Kylie and my daughter, Ashley, also have a great blog for teen girls.  If you have a teen daughter, I'd encourage you to have her check out Beautiful in Christ.

Fit Mommy Friday (week 4)

I'm looking back at the goals I posted last week and I realize something - I'm a failure!  Ugh!  I didn't fulfill a single one of them (and there were only 3, and they were easy ones!)  I could make excuses - chalk it up to a bad (could be, by some standards) or busy (definitely was) week - but I won't.

There was one day when the Wii Fit told me that I lost 2 pounds - that was exciting news.  Might have been a fluke - but, you know what, I'm taking it!

Anyway, I'm going to resolve to do better this coming week!  I must, I must, I must.  (I don't want to disappoint my friend Denise!)

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

We can see!

Gracie and I  both had eye doctor appointments the other week.  We both needed a new prescription, so we selected new frames.  Actually, Ashley and I picked Gracie's because she was sick that day.  So, we were pretty anxious to go back and pick them up - especially so we could see if Gracie even liked hers!  (poor girl!)

We finally got them on Monday (after waiting 2 weeks - a lesson in patience)!  I know I'm her mom and I'm prejudice, but  I can't help thinking how cute Gracie looks:

I wish I was that cute!  Here's a funny story:  right after we  got our glasses and got out to the van, I asked Gracie if I looked like a geek in mine. She said, "Mom, I'm not in school, I don't know what geeks look like!"  I think they look kinda like the one below (between the cute little boy and the black pug):



Lash Boosting Technology from L’Oréal Paris®


I received free mascara products from L’Oréal Paris®, as part of a BzzCampaign.  I need to preface this post by saying that I am not, nor have I ever been, a mascara wearer.  Truthfully, I'm a homeschool mom, who works from home, so my kids usually see me dressed very casually and wearing no make-up.  I do wear make-up when I go out, but I've never been a fan of mascara.  Why?  Because I have little, stubby lashes that have always seemed like a lost cause.

I thought I was a prime candidate to test this product because they proclaimed that it would make my lashes appeal thicker, fuller, and longer. I was a bit of a skeptic, I'll admit.  Here is what I looked like - before using this product - with no eye makeup at all:

See what  I mean?  Stubby!  Here is another shot of my eyes, taken on Day 1 of using the Lash Boosting Technology System.  This one is WITH the mascara:

Already, that first day, I could tell that this stuff worked!  I was supposed to try it, daily, for 4 weeks, and share my results.  Once again, I must confess that I'm a stay-at-home, work-at-home mom - there are just some days when I go makeup-free.  But, after 4 weeks of sporadic use, I can see a HUGE difference.  I think you'll agree.

But, before I share the AFTER pictures, let me tell you a bit about the product.  You can purchase the 2 products individually, or as a combo-pack (I received the combo pack and have seen it on display at Wal-mart for approximately $20).

The first step is the Lash Boosting Serum. Here is what the L’Oréal website has to say about it: "Now, the lashes of your dreams are no longer an illusion! Thanks to our new Concentrated Lash Boosting Serum, get visibly fuller, thicker natural lashes with less lash fall-out when removing makeup. The breakthrough formula contains Centella Asiatica Extract and Arginine to reinforce, condition, and protect each lash. Apply daily under your mascara and at night to bare lashes to transform your natural lashes, and see more lashes in just 4 weeks!"  I will tell you that I NEVER remembered to apply this at night.  I did, however, use it under the mascara every time I applied it.

The second step is the Double Extend Last Boosting Mascara.    This is a mascara wand with two tips.   L’Oréal can explain it much better than I can: "Wishing for longer, lusher lashes? Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara is the revolutionary new way to see them in 2 simple steps. Step 1: The Lash Boosting Primer is serum-infused to boost lash condition. It contains a pro-keratin complex that fortifies lashes and maximizes their appearance. Step 2: The Ultra-Lengthening Mascara Topcoat coats and lengthens lashes instantly, for an up to 80% longer, clump-free fringe."  The Primer goes on white, so it's easy to see (and you're sure to get it over all your lashes).


I'm no longer a skeptic.  This stuff really works.  See for yourself.  This is my eyes, this morning, before applying any makeup:

When comparing to the very first picture (above), I think you can definitely tell that my lashes are thicker, fuller, and more visible, just as the product label claimed!  Sure, they're still not the long, luscious lashes that women long for; but it's a start!

Here's a shot with my eyes closed, after applying the mascara, that you can compare to the second picture (above):

I think you can tell that my lashes are longer and thicker (gee, I wish I had Photoshop and could get rid of those glasses marks on my nose and those few brows that need plucking!)

I'm kinda excited, too, because my lashes are actually starting to curl naturally at the ends.  For some reason, my bottom lashes on my left eye appear visibly longer than those on my right eye.  Not sure why, but just in case you care, here's a close-up:

Overall, I'm quite pleased with the results and I'd even be willing to pay the $20 to purchase more of this stuff.  I may have started out a skeptic; but I've tested this product and proven that it works.

What do you think?

Tea with Hezbollah by Ted Dekker & Carl Medearis (and a contest!)


Is it really possible to love one’s enemies?

That’s the question that sparked a fascinating and, at times, terrifying journey into the heart of the Middle East during the summer of 2008. It was a trip that began in Egypt, passed beneath the steel and glass high rises of Saudi Arabia, then wound through the bullet- pocked alleyways of Beirut and dusty streets of Damascus, before ending at the cradle of the world’s three major religions: Jerusalem.

Tea with Hezbollah combines nail-biting narrative with the texture of rich historical background, as readers join novelist Ted Dekker and his co-author and Middle East expert, Carl Medearis, on a hair-raising journey. They are with them in every rocky cab ride, late-night border crossing, and back-room conversation as they sit down one-on-one with some of the most notorious leaders of the Arab world. These candid discussions with leaders of Hezbollah and Hamas, with muftis, sheikhs, and ayatollahs, with Osama bin Laden’s brothers, reveal these men to be real people with emotions, fears, and hopes of their own. Along the way, Dekker and Medearis discover surprising answers and even more surprising questions that they could not have anticipated—questions that lead straight to the heart of Middle Eastern conflict.

Through powerful narrative Tea With Hezbollah will draw the West into a completely fresh understanding of those we call our enemies and the teaching that dares us to love them. A must read for all who see the looming threat rising in the Middle East.

Ted Dekker is the author of many nationally bestselling novels, including Bone Man’s Daughters, The Circle Trilogy, Thr3e, and House, which was coauthored by Frank Peretti. His unique style of storytelling has captured the attention of millions worldwide. Visit him at TedDekker.com.
Carl Medearis is the founder and president of International Initiatives, LLC, an organization that promotes cultural, educational, and commercial exchange between the East and the West. He is an advisor on Arab affairs to the members of the U.S. Congress and leaders in international business.

If you would like to learn more about purchasing Tea with Hezbollah, click here.



I have to admit, I didn't read this book.  I tried, really I did.  With the exception of the book Kiss, co-authored with Erin Healy, I've never been much of a fan of Ted Dekker's writing.  I read the first few chapters of this book, thinking that I might appreciate a non-fiction book by Mr. Dekker; but I just couldn't get into it.  That being said, I can't really "review" the book.  However, I did pass my copy along to a friend - one who is a Dekker fan - and I'll come back and revisit this post with his thoughts on the book at a later date.

In the meantime, I have a copy to give away!  All you have to do to be entered in the drawing is to leave me a comment.  If you're a Ted Dekker fan, please tell me which of his books is your favorite.  If you're not a fan, please tell me what it is about Tea with Hezbollah that appeals to you.  I'll have a random drawing on Monday, February 1st, and announce the winner at that time.  Good luck!


Want additional chances to win?  If so, just do one or more of the following (be sure to leave a separate comment for each) - each one will get you an additional chance to win!
  • Follow my blog (simply click on the "follow" button at the top of my right-hand sidebar).  If you're already a follower, that counts too!
  • Follow me on Twitter (just click on the "follow me" Twitter button in my left-hand sidebar). If you're already a follower, that counts too!
  • Tweet about this contest, with a link back to this post.  Be sure to tell me your Twitter name, so I can follow you!
  • Post about this contest on Facebook, with a link back to this post.
  • Post about this contest on your blog, with a link back.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Welcome to the Blog Cruise!

Last week, I posted my answer to the "What About Socialization?" question and said that it was part of a new feature on the TOS Homeschool Crew's Facebook Fan page.  If you aren't following the Crew on Facebook, you're missing out on lots of fun and great information! 

Anyway, I just wanted to say that TODAY is the first day of our new weekly meme - which we are calling our Blog Cruise!  I hope you'll pop over and check it out.  There are lots of great responses to this week's topic!

Monday, January 25, 2010

Destination Disney - Favorite Character Meal(s)

*Hopefully we can get some more participants this week!  Destination Disney is so much more fun when more of us play!  If you would like more information, please see last week's post.


Now, on to this week's question(s) . . .
Do you do character meals when you visit the Disney parks?
If so, which one(s) have you done?
Do you have a favorite?  If so, why is it your favorite?



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
My answer . . .
We had never done a character meal, until our trip in 2005.  I always thought they were a waste of money - I mean, after all, you can meet all the characters in the parks and get their autographs, etc.  Why would you want to pay extra to eat a meal with them?

Then, in 2005, we had some extra points left over (thanks to the Disney Visa card), so we decided to try a character dinner.  We chose to have lunch with Pooh & Friends at the Crystal Palace in the Magic Kingdom.  WE LOVED IT!  The food was a bit fancier than we're used to, but I enjoyed trying some new things and the kids loved interacting with the characters.  They come right up to your table and spend time "visiting" with you (I put that in quotes because characters in costumes don't talk).  We decided, at that time, that every trip to Disney would include a character meal!


When we were planning our trip for last January (09), we sat down with our friends and decided to do 2 character meals.  Because it was their first trip to Disney, and they were traveling with a baby, they were open to whatever our kids wanted to do.  So, we decided to do the Pooh lunch again (the girls thought Ian would enjoy it).


Even though the restaurant was full, the characters came around 2 or 3 times while we were there.  They stop and visit, sign autographs, and entertain the kids.  Even Adelie (our friend's baby), who was only 7 months old at the time, had a blast interacting with them (especially Piglet).   The food seemed even fancier this time, and the kids really weren't all that impressed.  I was trying to be positive about it, but we were comparing it to the meal we had the morning before - - -

The 2nd meal the girls chose for that trip was the Princess Breakfast in Norway in EPCOT's World Showcase.  We LOVED it!  There was a buffet full of the most delectable fruit I've ever seen (and tasted) and pastries, etc.  They also brought platters to the table - with sausage, bacon, scrambled eggs, and a very delicious potato casserole (that I'd love to find the recipe for!)

What was especially fun about this meal, though, is that the princesses actually talk to you!  Each one came to the table and spent plenty of time chatting with the kids and signing autographs.  Snow While, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Mulan, and Princess Jasmine were there for our breakfast date. 

We were especially surprised, when we first arrived, to be ushered into a lovely little alcove area, where we were introduced to Belle and had a mini-photo shoot with her.  While we were eating, they brought out an envelope containing photos from that session.  We had no idea this was included in the price of the meal, so it was a nice surprise.

We would definitely do this meal again sometime, and would also highly recommend it!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Now, it's your turn.  If you have a blog, please post your answer (along with pictures, if you have them) and come back here and sign the Mr. Linky so we can all see your answer.  (If you don't have a blog, or you're reading via Facebook, simply leave a comment with your answer).

I'm especially anxious to read your thoughts on this topic as we're anticipating a mini-Disney vacation in May and want to select ONE character meal.  We'd love to try one in a resort this year.




The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher


Lancaster County has always been her home--but where does her heart belong?

One moment Carrie Weaver was looking forward to running away with Lancaster Barnstormers pitcher Solomon Riehl--plans that included leaving the Amish community where they grew up. The next moment she was staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now, Carrie is faced with a choice. But will this opportunity be all she hoped? Or will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever?

A tender story of love, forgiveness, and looking below the surface, The Choice uncovers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world--and shows that it's never too late to find your way back to God.

Suzanne is a wife and mom, raiser of puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and an author of Christian books, both non-fiction and fiction.

Her relatives on my mother's side are Old Order German Baptist Brethren, also known as Dunkards. That's where her interest in Anabaptist traditions began. Suzanne's grandfather was born into a family of 13 children, started his career as a teacher in a one-room school house in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and ended it as one of the very first publishers of Christianity Today. "We called him "Deardad" even though he was a very stern fellow. Still, Deardad's life inspired me to write."

After college, Suzanne was a freelance writer for magazines and became a contributing editor to Christian Parenting Today. Her work has been featured in Today's Christian Woman, Marriage Partnership, Worldwide Challenge, among others. She took the plunge into books a few years ago and now she's hooked. To learn more about Suzanne, visit her website at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.



I am giving this book TWO THUMBS UP!  To those who have been reading my reviews for some time now, I bet you're surprised to see me giving an Amish-themed book a good review, aren't you?  Let me explain ---

I've shared in the past that I'm a fan of Beverly Lewis' Amish fiction books.  I appreciate her storylines and especially like that they all end with a cliff-hanger (did I really just say that?! the suspense between books usually drives me crazy!). Her Amish facts and references to locations, etc. are usually spot-on.  The other authors just don't compare in my opinion.  I live among the Amish and know some about their ways (and what I don't know I can easily find out).  I live in central PA and know about the places that are often mentioned in these books (and it drives me crazy when they aren't accurate!)

So, what is it about The Choice and Suzanne Woods Fisher that I like?  Well, Suzanne's book isn't full of "fluff" about Amish traditions, nor does it describe locale.  It simply tells a fiction story.  And, it's not one of those books that you pick up, read chapter one, and know exactly how the book will end.  No predictability here!  With each passing chapter, I found myself saying (yes, I talk to myself on occasion) "wow, I wasn't expecting THAT!" 

The Choice is the first of a series of books by Suzanne Woods Fisher.  (Watch for  The Waiting, coming in October - I will be!)  The series is called Lancaster County Secrets, and this first book was filled with them. But, in the end, truth is revealed; and I, for one, was blessed.  There was one line, in particular, that really stood out to me in this book - "sometimes . . . the very thing we think is a problem turns out in the end to be God's protection".  So simple, yet so profound!

If you're looking for a good Christian fiction book to read and, like me, you're sick of the predictability or the typical Amish hype, then I'd definitely recommend The Choice. I'll be sharing my copy and watching for book 2 in the series!

Book Bomb and Author's Talk with Suzanne Woods Fisher
Wanna learn more about The Choice and Suzanne Woods Fisher?
Be sure to check out the other reviews in this blog tour!  The tour starts today, and runs through February 12th, so you'll want to check back often.
AND, you'll want to mark your calendar for February 15th at 8pm (est).  That's when you can participate in Author Talk with Suzanne on Facebook.  Also, if you purchase your copy of The Choice on that date, your name will be entered in a drawing for a $25 Amazon gift certificate (see more Author Talk and Book Bomb details here).

Would you like a signed copy of The Choice? 
Are you on Twitter?  If so, simply Tweet this (copy and paste exactly):
Psst... pass it on! Join @suzannewfisher for a Book Bomb & Author Talk! Details here http://ow.ly/W84r #thechoice

NOTE: I received this book for free, as part of  LitFuse publicity, in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Kelly's Chance by Wanda Brunstetter


This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Kelly’s Chance
Barbour Books; Reprint edition (January 1, 2010)

by

Wanda E. Brunstetter





Life for Kelly McGregor is a daily drudge of driving her overbearing father’s mules along Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Canal. She dreams of one day owning an art gallery where her own drawings and paintings are on display. But these dreams don’t include marriage. . .not after seeing what her father has done to her mother. How then can Mike Cooper, a general store owner, make her realize he is different than her father and wants to support her artistic talent? Will Kelly learn that dreams can walk hand in hand with a love created by God?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Kelly’s Chance , go HERE.


Ever since I was a child, I wanted to be a writer. When I was in the second grade, I wrote my first poem about a moth. Luckily, I received encouragement from my teacher. During my teen years, I wrote skits that my church teen group performed during special holidays.

It wasn’t until 1980, that I took a course on writing for children and teenagers. I became serious about a career as an author. Soon after that, I began to write stories, articles, poems, and devotionals, which appeared in a variety of Christian publications. Later, I had 5 books of puppet/ventriloquist scripts published. *These books are currently available by contacting me. (wanda@wandabrunstetter.com)

My first novel was released by Barbour Publishing’s book club, Heartsong Presents, in Dec. 1997. I have now written nearly fifty books, with over 4 million books in print. Many of the novels I've written are Amish-themed.


This was a simple, quick read.  I wanted to try out this book, as I had previously read one of Wanda's Amish fiction books and wanted to compare this to it.  I appreciated that the book was set in Pennsylvania - though I'm not super-familiar with the Easton area where the book is set, I have been there a few times (to visit the Crayola factory) and I enjoyed learning about the workings of the canal (we have old canal paths in our area and I find it very interesting).  However, I found the storyline to be very predictable and the characters to be rather "one dimensional" (not a lot of depth).  If you're looking for a quick read that doesn't require much thought, go for it

Sunday, January 24, 2010

A is for Adam by Ken & Mally Ham


 The Three-in-One Multipurpose Family Book
  •  Entertaining ABC Rhyme Book
  •  Sunday, School, Christian School, Home School, Home Devotional Teaching Book
  •  Coloring Book

The Gospel From Genesis
Many adults today cannot adequately defend their Christian faith because the do not understand the book of Genesis—yet all major Christians doctrines, including salvation, have their foundation in this book of beginnings.
Turn to the front of the book and look through the pictures. Each picture is worth a thousand words! When you go through these strikingly colorful and oftentimes humorous illustrations, the Gospel message will be spelled out.
As you read the rhymes, the theology that we all need to know and understand will come alive. And as you read the parent and teacher notes, you will think you are reading a commentary on the book of Genesis that presents the Gospel in a unique way.
You will be excited to go through this book with children of all ages in your home, church, school, or other groups. It will help them to understand and defend the Gospel against the increasing tide of evolutionary humanism that is taking over Western society.

Ken Ham is the founder of Answers in Genesis-U.S., the president of the Creation Museum, and a popular Christian speaker. He is the author or co-author of many books, and is heard daily on the radio program, “Answers...with Ken Ham,” on more than 300 stations worldwide.



As a lover of children's book (especially those set to rhyme), a former Sunday School teacher, and a homeschooling mom, I have to say that I LOVE THIS BOOK!  I've picked A is for Adam up at several homeschool conventions in the past, and now I regret that I didn't buy this one sooner. This book can be used in so many different ways that it's versatility raises the value.

The first section of the book is the main story.  I love how each page (for each letter of the alphabet) contains a short (4-line) poem on the left-hand side of the 2-page spread, while the right-hand side contains a large, colorful, fun illustration. It's simplicity makes it easy enough for my 3-year old to enjoy; while my 9-year old can still learn so much from this book as well!  (Even adults will benefit from this one!)

The third section contains black & white copies of the illustrations, with the 4-line corresponding poems at the top of each page.  Permission is given to reproduce these pages for home or church use. Some children learn best by doing, so they will enjoy coloring the illustrations while the parent reads.  My perfectionist daughter would love to color these illustrations just like the originals, while I can see other children taking liberties to make them their own creations.

As a homeschool mom, though, my favorite part of this book is the second section. The book says that this section is "almost like reading a commentary on the book of Genesis" and that is so true. For each poem/letter of the alphabet, you'll find information and corresponding scripture verses to help you better understand the concept you are teaching.  You can read these to yourselves, read them aloud to your children, or have older kids read these to themselves.  Then, following each information section is a Student Exercise. I love the ideas here!  Not only are they fun, but they encourage your kids to dig deeper into the Scriptures and learn more about what they are learning.

I would highly recommend A is for Adam (which can also be purchased at Amazon.com). I'm planning to use it each day with my 9-year-old.


NOTE: This book was provided to me by New Leaf Publishing in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Legoland will be making an appearance in Florida

I love reading the Lance Around Orlando blog.  He's a treasure trove of information on central Florida - and I'm always on the lookout of more fun things to plan into my vacations.  (If you don't already know this about me, I should confess that I could potentially plan a vacation for years, before actually taking it - 1/2 the fun is in the planning!)

Anyway, last week I sat down with my parents to try to help them come up with some fun and interesting things to do next month, when they take a week-long jaunt to my favorite vacation destination.  Way back in high school, my parents recognized my sick fascination with planning and researching vacations; so they are kind enough to allow me the liberty of helping them!  One thing they suggested was a visit to Cypress Gardens. We found the website, only to discover that the park had closed in September of this past year.  Guess that was out of the question for their upcoming trip. 

So, this morning, as I was reading through some blogs I follow, I was excited to see Lance's latest post - Legoland is coming to Florida and will be located on the former Cypress Gardens site.  This new park won't be open til the end of 2011; but it will certainly be something to consider visiting on a future trip to Florida!

REMINDER: If you haven't yet answered this week's Destination Disney question, please take the time to do so (either in the comments, on your blog, or Facebook).  Thanks!

"What about socialization?"

 Do you follow the TOS Homeschool Crew on Facebook?  If you don't, you're missing out! We have a great team of contributors and share lots of interesting information with our fans each and every week.  Tuesdays is our Tuesday Topic day - and starting next Tuesday (the 26th), it will work more like a "Crew Carnival".  Each week, there will be a new question posed, and Crew members will have opportunity to answer this question on their individual blogs.  Be sure to check in each Tuesday for the new question, as well as links to blogs where you can read answers.

This week's question is probably the biggest question posed to homeschoolers --- What about socialization?

If you're a homeschooler, you've probably heard this question about a million times!  It gets old, doesn't it?  I know that I get sick of hearing it, and sick of answering it!  And, like is often the case with me, I often leave a conversation thinking "oh, if only I had said ...." (but I can never think those clever things fast enough).

Over the years, after having been asked this question so many times, I've come up with some things that I answer each time.  Here they are, in bullet points, for ease of reading:
  • How much socialization does a child really receive in school? I mean, get real. They sit in a classroom all day, where they aren't allowed to speak without raising their hand first.  The only socialization time is during lunch and recess/break.  That's probably only about 45 minutes per day, right?
  • How many people in your child's peer group at school do you really feel comfortable with them socializing with?  My daughter Ashley had a brief stint at the local public school and, out of about 22 kids in her class (at any given time), I could probably count on one hand the number of them that I'd approve of as friends.  Funny, I had opportunity to speak with one of her teachers when the school year had ended, and I remember her telling me that, out of all the classes she had ever taught (and she was close to retirement at the time), that particular class had the worst bunch of girls she had ever encountered.  Now, that's just sad. But, it pretty much cemented my thoughts that there really weren't many good friend options there.
  • What is the good of socializing with only those in your own peer group?  I mean, anyone can talk to those their same age.  I want my kids to learn to socialize and interact with people of all ages.  I want them to be able to (and willing) to play with younger and/or older children (and have fun doing so).  I want them to be able to hold intelligent conversations with adults. I want them to enjoy both young and old (and, in turn, I want the young and old to enjoy interacting with my kids).  Having spent most of my growing up years as an only child, I feel that I exhibited these qualities (even though I wasn't homeschooled), and I want them to be displayed in my own children.
  • They socialize with each other (and with me) each and every day.  Not to be smart, but what more could a kid want?!  Seriously, there's a book out there with a title something about making siblings best friends.  Mine aren't to that point yet; but I sure would love to see it.  Someday, we (Brian and I) won't be around anymore;  I'd love to know that my kids love each other and continue to enjoy each other's company (that they desire to be together).
  • We go to church, they take lessons, and we spend time in the real world.  Plenty of time for good quality, healthy interactions with people.

A fellow Crew mate, Debra, shared her response to this question, which I just loved and had to share!  Why, oh why, didn't I ever think to answer like this?!

Remember, become a fan of the TOS Homeschool Crew on Facebook!

Does your family like cereal?

Around here, we go in "cereal spells". For example, we might go months without any of us being interested in cereal; then, I might have a good coupon, buy some cereal, and we'll be interested in it again for a time.  It just depends. 

Several years ago, we had a "cereal connection" - a relative worked for General Mills and used to get us boxes of cereal by the case (and he'd give us 4-5 cases at a time). Yes, it was a challenge to store; but it was nice to have that "never-ending" supply of cereal at our fingertips. We became die-hard General Mills fans.  The girls even have Wheaties boxes with their picture(s) on them! 

I was pleased to receive the following information about General Mills from MyBlogSpark, and wanted to share:


Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making cereal a top source of key nutrients in children’s diets.

Other cereal benefits:
  • Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children’s diets.
  • Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child’s diet today.
  • More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.
Studies also demonstrate the benefits of eating breakfast. A 1998 study showed that children who eat breakfast tend to perform better at school. Compared to children who skip breakfast, children who eat breakfast score higher on tests, are less likely to miss class or be tardy, have fewer reported discipline problems, and make fewer trips to the office.

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals. If you choose to participate we will also provide you with VIP coupons for 4 boxes of General Mills cereal to help your family come together at the breakfast table every morning. 


NOTE: I received coupons for free General Mills cereal, in exchange for sharing this information. The free cereal did not, however, hinder or influence my opinion.

Fit Mommy Friday (week 3)

This was my 2nd full week of participating in Fit Mommy Friday, hosted by Denise at Got Chai. I've been reading some of the other participants' posts, and it seems like this was a rough week all around.  I hate to say this, but I'm kinda glad to know I'm not alone.  You know the old saying - misery loves company!

Anyway, this week was harder for me on so many levels ---
  • We had a very busy week scheduled with things to do away from home almost every day
  • It was hard to get out of bed each morning when my alarm went off - I was in denial and ended up oversleeping most mornings
  • Out of 7 days, I only got my exercise in on 5 of them 
  • I did not do as well drinking my water
  • We had some opportunity to eat out, and I'm sure I ate too much
  • This was the week leading up to "that time of the month", which is always bad for me - though  I don't necessarily feel bloated, I know I am from previous times of trying to lose weight (which should mean next week will be better)
I'm determined to stick with this though.  I know you can't expect to see results right away and, even if the scales aren't moving (yet), I'm feeling better about myself.  I know I'm doing something, which is better than the usual nothing.

So, my goals for the week to come:
  • Get back on track with my water
  • Eat better
  • Try to exercise at least 6 of the 7 days


Wednesday, January 20, 2010

a fun photo contest - in honor of Valentine's Day

I just got the information about this photo contest from MomSelect and thought I'd share it with my blog readers ---


As we know from the Valentine's Day celebrations taking place in classrooms and romantic restaurants everywhere, love and fun go hand-in-hand! To get Americans thinking about life insurance as an expression of enduring love, the nonprofit LIFE Foundation is sponsoring the Crazy4Love Photo Contest. From now until February 19, you'll be able to visit the popular microblogging website tumblr.com and share a photo that captures how you've expressed your love to someone dear to you. One Grand Prize winner will receive a $1,000 gift certificate toward a romantic getaway weekend. Go to www.insureyourlove.org to learn more about the contest and to enter.

That $1,000 gift certificate toward a romantic weekend sounds pretty tempting to me!  Our 18th anniversary falls just a few weeks after Valentine's Day, so this would be a nice way to help fund a getaway!  I'll definitely be entering this contest! 

Monday, January 18, 2010

Destination Disney - Which Disney Parks have YOU visited?

I think that, for ease of playing along, I'll try to post Destination Disney topics and/or questions on Mondays.  You don't have to necessarily answer/play along on Mondays - just get your post up sometime during the week and come back here and sign the Mr. Linky (so that all who are participating can stop by and visit your blog).  Hopefully, we'll all get some great new Disney ideas AND, even more important, we'll make some NEW FRIENDS!!!

Just some quick maintenance before moving on to this week's question ---
  • When you make your Destination Disney post, be sure to link back here to this post (that way, your blog readers and friends can find us and play along, if they like!)  
  • I'd love to get a lot more people involved in Destination Disney, so if you are reading this and can't or won't play along, please consider making a post about Destination Disney anyway - maybe someone reading your blog would like to play!
  • We love reading your posts about Disney, but (even more than that) we love seeing pictures!  So, if you have pictures to go along with the weekly topics, please be sure to share!
  • Please be sure to grab that banner and use it in your post.  Add it to your sidebar too, if you like! 
  • Don't forget to sign the Mr. Linky!
  • For those of you who do not have blogs, but would like to participate anyway, please simply leave your answers to the questions in the comment section for each week's post.  



OK, now on to the fun ---
We'll start off with a two-fold question:
HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU VISITED DISNEY THEME PARKS?  (I'd love to know the years you've visited, and see pictures too, if you have them!)
and WHICH PARKS HAVE YOU VISITED? (by this, I mean location, such as Florida, California, Tokyo, etc.)


I have only ever been to the Disney parks in Florida.  I've been there 5 times --- twice as a teenager, in 1987 and 1989; and 3 times as an adult (with my own family), in 1999, 2005, and 2009.  I'll just share a few pictures - this first is my friend Ann and I in 1989 (wow, 2 teenagers loose in Disney World! that could be trouble!), the second is my family, including my parents, in 2005.


 





Make Time for Change

Frigidaire and Jennifer Garner are teaming up once again to support Save the Children's U.S. Programs, dedicated to helping children living in poverty in the United States.

Their new Spin & Win game gives you the opportunity to win gift cards for spending quality time with your tykes - whether it's curling up with some new books, starting a craft project or taking in a family flick. They're giving away a prize every day. Plus, you could also win a brand new Frigidaire Affinity washer and dryer, with time-saving features that give you more time for the important things in life.

Best of all, every time you play, Frigidaire will donate $1 to Save the Children, as part of their $250,000 commitment to support Save the Children's CHANGE program, dedicated to providing nutritious snacks and promoting healthier lifestyles for children living in poverty in the United States.

Click here to play!

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris


What will you build your life on?

With startling transparency, Joshua Harris shares how we can rediscover the relevance and power of Christian truth. This is book shows a young man who rose quickly to success in the Christian evangelical world before he realized his spirituality lacked a foundation—it rested more on tradition and morality than on an informed knowledge of God.

For the indifferent or spiritually numb, Harris's humorous and engaging reflections on Christian beliefs show that orthodoxy isn't just for scholars—it is for anyone who longs to know the living Jesus Christ. As Harris writes, "I've come to learn that theology matters. It matters not because we want to impress people, but because what we know about God shapes the way we think and live. Theology matters because if we get it wrong then our whole life will be wrong."

Whether you are just exploring Christianity or you are a veteran believer finding yourself overly familiar and cold-hearted, Dug Down Deep will help you rediscover the timeless truths of Scripture. As Harris challenges you to root your faith and feelings about God in the person, work, and words of Jesus, he answers questions such as:

What is God like and how does he speak to me?What difference does it make that Jesus was both human and divine?How does Jesus's death on the cross pay for my sins?Who is the Holy Spirit and how does he work in my life?

With grace and wisdom, Harris will inspire you to revel in the truth that has captured his own mind and heart. He will ask you to dig deep into a faith so solid you can build your life on it. He will point you to something to believe in again.





Joshua Harris is senior pastor of Covenant Life in Gaithersburg, Maryland, which belongs to the Sovereign Grace network of local churches. A passionate speaker with a gift for making theological truth easy to understand, Joshua is perhaps best known for his runaway bestseller, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, which he wrote at the age of twenty-one. His later books include Boy Meets Girl, Sex Is Not the Problem (Lust Is), and Stop Dating the Church. The founder of the NEXT conferences for young adults, Joshua is committed to seeing the gospel transferred to a new generation of Christians. He and his wife, Shannon, have three children.


As is often the case for me, I'm having a bit of a problem reading this non-fiction book.  I'm slowly, but surely, working my way through it, but I need to balance it out with reading other things as well!


One thing that I am really enjoying about this book is Josh's transparency.  He holds nothing back and speaks the truth about his walk with the Lord - even the times when that walk was very one-sided (on God's part). 


I was especially touched by the first chapter, where he talks about his youth group.  Having just come out of a situation where we were very involved in working with the youth, but stepped away due to some disagreements with the way the program should be run, I was glad to read that someone else agrees with me.  Josh says: "Our youth group was geared to being loud, fast paced, and fun. It was modeled on the massive and influential, seeker-sensitive Willow Creek Community Church . . . The goal was simple: put on a show, get kids in the building, and let them see that Christians are cool, thus Jesus is cool . . . Maybe I wouldn't have been interested in youth group if it hadn't been packaged in fun and games and a good band. But I still wish someone had expected more of me - of all of us.  Would I have listened? I can't know. But I do know that a clear vision of God and the power of his Word and the purpose of Jesus's life, death, and resurrection were lost on me in the midst of all the flash and fun."  This passage reminds me much of Josh's brothers' book, Do Hard Things.  (For the record, I was working through this book with the youth when the new youth leader told me that he didn't feel that the book was worthwhile.  Ugh!


Dug Down Deep - a great book for new Christians who are looking for a starting point, or for veteran Christians who need some help in learning how to more effectively study the Scriptures.





This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah, and can be purchased directly from the publisher.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

just a few "blog maintenence" questions I have

  1. I want a neat little Reviews & Reflections button.  Who can make me one?  I'm sure I could make my own, but it wouldn't be as cute as some of the ones I've seen!
  2. Once I have a button, how do you get the coding under it (so others can copy and paste it into their sidebar)?
  3. How do I use a signature on this blog?  I have one created, but don't know how to set it up to automatically show up at the end of each post. 

Tea Rooms

I follow the blog of Lance, owner of Florida Dream Homes.  I love it because, in addition to talking about Disney, he talks about lots of other unique and interesting things to see and do in the greater Orlando area.  Since that is my favorite vacation destination, I'm always on the lookout for things to do to change up our trips a bit. 

Of late, Lance has been talking about visiting area tea rooms - he shares their experience and his personal opinion (which I appreciate).  He's got me dreaming of tea!  It's been several years since I've gone with a friend to a tea room - I think it's time to make plans.  In any case, he's always got my wheels turning --- I've got several friends I'm hoping to connect with during our trip to Orlando in May (for the homeschool convention).  Wouldn't it be great if we could all meet up for tea?!

Friday, January 15, 2010

Destination Disney - Take 2


I've had a few people comment and say that they'd like to see Destination Disney resurrected.  SO ---
with our upcoming trip to Disney in May (a "quickie" - we're really going to Orlando to represent TOS at the homeschool convention there), I'm thinking that we should go ahead and get started. 


Will you participate?  I hope so!  Please comment and let me know which day of the week works best for you.  Of course, you don't have to post on the same day that I do.  Just make sure you leave a comment and/or sign the Mr. Linky so that I can come and read your post(s)!


Will you help me spread the word about Destination Disney?  Please post about it on your blog or Facebook page, with a link back to my blog.  Feel free to grab and use the button too.  (I need to figure out how to get that great little copy and paste coding below it for my sidebar - any of you tech savvy people know how to do that?!)  Tweet about it too, please!  I'd love to see this really take off this time.

Fit Mommy Friday (week 2)

This is my 2nd week of posting for Fit Mommy Friday, and my 1st week with an update . . .
We received our Wii Fit Plus last Friday, just in time to get started on my first week of Fit Mommy Friday.  We got it set up, set each one of us up with an account, and got started.  Here are a few things that I've learned:
  • You can get a good workout with a video game (and have fun doing it)
  • When it asks to take the weight of your clothing into account, go with the "other" option and leave it set at zero  (we started out with heavy, switched to light, and are back to zero now - this has caused our weight and BMI to fluctuate this week and we don't have a clear reading)
  • A video game can be quite inspirational!  I enjoyed the positive comments each day this week (words of affirmation is my love language!)

In other Fit Mommy news, I've been conscious about drinking more water.  Ashley and I even purchased drinking jugs that hold the equivalent of 8 glasses of water.  I haven't yet had a day when I drank mine entirely (we just got them Tuesday afternoon, so there have only been 2 full days in there!), but that's because I drink a few cups of coffee during the day as well (which also serves to "flush me out").  In any event, we're trying!

Also, and you might think that this has nothing to do with fitness - I've been reading my Bible and praying each morning before I start my workout routine.  To me, this is a big part of being "fit" because I'm getting my mind and my heart in good shape to work on my body.  I'm definitely working on developing some good habits.

I don't have a great weight loss to account for (because of the whole issue with the Wii Fit and the clothing!) - hopefully next week!  But, I can tell you that my most recent Wii Fit age was 27!  So, my balance is improving!

Check out Fit Mommy Friday:

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Baked Oatmeal

You might think of oatmeal as a breakfast food; but, around here, we sometimes like "breakfast for supper".  I've shared this recipe in other places (maybe in a previous edition of The Schoolhouse Planner), so you may have seen it before.  Normally, we use blueberries in it;  last night, we decided to change it up a bit and use peaches - YUM! 

Baked Oatmeal
4 eggs
2 c. brown sugar
1 c. oil
1 T. cinnamon (*FYI: cinnamon from Vietnam is especially tasty!)
1 T. vanilla
6 c. quick oats
1 T. baking powder
2 c. milk
2 c. fruit

Mix oil, sugar, and eggs.
Add cinnamon and vanilla.
Add oats, baking powder, and milk.
Fold in fruit.
Pour into greased 13x9" pan.
Bake for 45 minutes at 350.

Stuffed Pizza

We've had some yummy suppers this week.  And, because I know I'm always on the lookout for new, simple and quick recipes to make, I thought I'd share (in case any of you, like me, get stuck in a cooking rut). 

Recently, I subscribed to the Betty Crocker magazine - the latest issue is the Bisquick issue (filled with 72 recipes that use Bisquick).  We picked out a few to add to test out in our most recent menu rotation.  The first one we tried was Stuffed Pizza.  Brian said this was a definite keeper.

Stuffed Pizza
1/2 lb. bulk Italian pork sausage
1/2 lb. lean ground beef (*I didn't feel like having to  buy sausage, so used 1 lb. ground beef, since we have it on hand)
3 1/3 c. Original Bisquick mix (*I used the Heart Smart instead)
3/4 c. cold water
3 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 jar (14-15 oz.) pizza sauce (*we love sauce, so I used about a jar and a 1/2)
1 c. sliced fresh mushrooms (*I left these out for my picky family!)
1/4 c. chopped green bell pepper

Heat over to 450. Spray 13x9" glass baking dish with cooking spray. In 10" skillet, cook sausage and beef over medium-high heat 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Set aside.

In large bowl, stir Bisquick and cold water until dough forms. Divid dough into 2 parts, with 1 part slightly larger. On surface sprinkled with Bisquick mix, press or roll larger part of dough into 16x14" rectangle. Fold crosswise into thirds; place in center of baking dish and unfold. Press dough on bottom and up sides of dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the cheese; top with 3/4 cup of the pizza sauce, the meat mixture, mushrooms, bell pepper, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese.

Press or roll remaining part of dough into 13x9" rectangle. Fold crosswise into thirds; place on cheese in center of baking dish and unfold. Press edges of bottom and top crusts together to seal. Make small slits in top crust. Spread remaining pizza sauce over crust; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.

Bake 22-25 minutes or until edges of crust are golden brown.

of sick kids, dogs, and hats

Today is a day of normalcy around here (at least, so far - it's only 1:13! I don't want to speak too soon and jinx things!) 

Gracie seems to be feeling much better.  She was my sickly little one - she had lots of asthma problems and would get very sick, very quickly - so I usually run her to the doctor quicker than I would the other two.  Yesterday, her throat was red and her glands were swollen (in addition to a fever of 100+).  Zithromax seems to be her wonder drug, so we grabbed some at the pharmacy (along with some Sucrets for kids) and headed home for day of rest. 

I think it's so sweet how dogs (and maybe cats too) can sense when their people aren't feeling well.  Yesterday, as Gracie chilled on the couch, both dogs knew that she was under the weather - so they stuck to her quite closely, making sure that she was well-protected.



Thankfully, she's feeling much better today - good enough to go to piano lessons and do school! 

Over the past 2 days, she and I have been working with the knitting looms, and we were each able to complete a hat!  Who knew?!  The loom directions recommended heavy yarn (#5), but didn't really describe what kind of yarn.  I went for a more funky yarn, in shades of brown and  black.  I think a more normal yarn would have looked better (though this one wasn't too hard to work with).  Here is the finished product (this picture makes it look like there is blue in it - there isn't):




Gracie used the loom recommended for a children's hat.  However, the finished product is TINY!  We tried it on Ian and it was even small for him.  This one may become a gift for a friend's baby!  I love the way you can see the stitches  better with this yarn type, though:



I followed the directions to add a brim to my hat - Gracie didn't want one.  The hat kinda curls up at the bottom instead.  I looks cute.  Now, Ashley wants to take both skeins of leftover yarn and crochet matching scarves.  She's currently working on a multicolor, variegated scarf.

We need to find a good source for more yarn and go purchase some more.  I think Gracie will use the smaller adult-sized hat loom next time.  I want to try some other projects, such as scarves, etc.  I found some  great patterns online. 

What are you crafting?