Sew Anyhow

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 16 May 2012 14:34:00 +0000

Here is another Bible Curriculum I was able to review this year. Again, it is a wonderful, in-depth look at the Bible, with lots of personal digging and work to learn the Bible for yourself.

From Bill Burtness, author, Judah Bible Curriculum:

"With the Judah Bible Curriculum, it is helpful to remind ourselves just what we are trying to accomplish in our study of the Scriptures.

The primary product of our education is the character of our kids - Godly (loving), self-governing under God (responsible), self-educating before God (literate). We want applying God's word to all of life to be second nature for our children. As they understand the truth from the Scriptures, they will be able to discern what is false. They will need this basis in truth as they grow up and finally leave the nest on their own. So we are building our children's worldview and future.

As we have seen, freedom in society is dependent on this Godly character, so we are also building future civilization as we train our children. This is serious and actually does take some labor and some thought. But it's not beyond us. (Deut. 6:4-12, I John 5:3)

These concepts and ideals were common thinking when America was founded and through much of our history, but in the last several generations they have not been taught and we have really lost it. So we are floundering."

The main concepts for the study are:
The hand of God in History, The hand of God in the life of the individual, the importance of Godly Christian character, and learning the relationship between individual Christian character and national liberty.
The Judah Bible Curriculum also focuses on the intelligence of following God-which really appeals to me since many Christians today are made to feel less educated than their liberal neighbors.
A strong Bible focus and background is one of the main reasons we personally chose to homeschool, and with this curriculum I feel like we are finally going to be able to do just that. I have spent a long time studying this curriculum, as it is teacher-intensive.

There are key sheets to fill out, and you are encouraged to add maps, timelines, and essays as well. There is a PDF of example student work to help you see what a student notebook should look like. There is even a teacher walk-through that holds your hand!
The other great thing about this curriculum is it teaches your child how to extract information, not just answer questions. I really think this Bible curriculum is fabulous, and all ages can use this curriculum' K-adult.

Every year you will teach the main ideas and principles of the Bible, but the student will be studying different details. Judah Bible Curriculum calls these details Bible Keys and they include individuals, events, institutions, and documents. This allows you to design the daily study to fit your family with the doctrinal emphasis left to you. A summary of the Bible Keys you will study can be seen in the Scope and Sequence.
The Judah Bible Curriculum can be purchased as a download ($44.00) or hard copy ($69.00) and includes:

Judah Bible Curriculum K-12 Manual or e-book
Elementary Notebook Ideas Booklet, download or view online
Eight-lecture Teacher Training Seminars on CD, download or listen online

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 09 May 2012 14:21:00 +0000

I have been absent lately. Absent from this blog, and other things in my life. Other than the occasional menu post or review, I just haven't been writing. It has just been too hard, and I haven't had the gumption.

You see, we are a little topsy-turvy in our life right now. Slightly over six months ago, God called us from the church He had led us to 4 years ago. We packed up our entire life and moved home. My parents, being the gracious people that they are, opened their home to us, and now 12 people are living under this one roof.

God saw fit to open a job up for Heath almost immediately. The temporary holiday job has turned into a store manager position of a retail men's clothing store. It seems far from the calling on our lives, but God is in control. Heath works hard, and honors God with his diligence.

Most days are spent juggling schedules, vehicles (we only had one until a few days ago), and routines. Heath is only home 2 days a week, and usually gone before the kids are up and home after they are in bed. School has been sporadic, but is slowly evening out. There is a constant need to pick up clutter and messes. It just gets a little crowded if you let the piles of stuff stay more than a few hours. There doesn't seem to be any down time, but that just keeps us working diligently unto the Lord, right?

There have been moments of stress, and a few meltdowns (we won't mention the names), but since faith is what pleases God (Hebrews 11:6), we carry on. In fact, it is because of the faith given us by God we can carry on. I will be honest, it isn't always easy. In fact, there are times I just don't want to do what is right. So I put my trust in the God of the Universe, and follow.

Join me over the next few posts as I share specifically how we are carrying on. In our home, our school, our yard, my kitchen, and my craft room, I'll share how we are surviving, and how we are stepping it up to thriving!

God's Great Covenant

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:55:00 +0000

Since we are a homeschooling family, I am often looking for "Bible" curriculum. Sounds a little odd, huh? You have the Bible, what more is needed? And I usually approach teaching the Bible from a more pure aspect. I don't need or want a curriculum to tell me or my children everything we are supposed to know. But I do keep my eyes out for something that will be a guide, helping up to dig the truth out for ourselves.

Classical Academic Press recently gave me the chance to review God's Great Covenant, New Testament 1~The Gospels. I was a little unsure of the course when I first got it. I received two large workbooks, and I made the assumption it was full of busy work. But I began to dig through it, and found out how wrong my assumption was! This is truly a well thought out and well written plan to guide you in teaching your children!

The teacher's edition is just a reproduction of the children's book, but the margins are left open to fill with notes. There are also key point notes from the publishers. It honestly takes quite a bit of work to prep this course and get it ready to teach. You cannot just pick up the teachers manual and read a paragraph to your students. You first must read, take notes, study, and learn the material for yourself. In other words, you get to STUDY YOUR BIBLE for the purpose of teaching your children the Words of God!

With most curriculums, you get a planning guideline, and teaching schedule. And that has been something to which I am very accustom. This course does not. Other than being sectioned out into units and chapters in the units, it is up to you the teacher to plan when and what you will teach. Part of me would really like some direction in planning, but, maybe this will be another way I can learn and grow as a teacher. Once I get the hang of the schedule, I do believe I will look into buying the other courses in this series!

Happy looking!
Beth

I reiceved this product for the purpose of review. I was not given any instuction as to what to say. All opinions and writing are my own. For more reviews, please see The Homeschool Crew Blog.

I See Sam

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 03:37:00 +0000

Having eight children living in one house can be very hard on books. Most of our first readers are torn up, mangled, or even trashed. I was thrilled to learn we would be getting some new ones from Academic Success. It was a chance to bring some new books into the house that the littles could read, or soon read.

I was honestly a little disappointed when I opened the box of books. These reminded me of the little readers my kids got when they were in public school. Not that those are bad, but they are little paper books, not something that holds up to multiple readers, or has a great shelf life. But, we opened them up, and I give them out in small doses to the littles and let them read.

They love them. Terry and Paulee are both reading three letter words, or simple 4 letter words very well. And these are books they can actually read. However, the books start with words using long vowel sounds, and phonics concepts that are usually not taught until later in beginner reader curriculum. I just told my two what the word or words were that they didn't know how to sound out yet, and they remembered it for the rest of the book.

Terry and Paulee love reading a book to themselves. Or even to their two younger siblings. They like the questions at the back of the books we ask them, and enjoy being like the "big kids". I liked that they are color coded, and well number for sequence.

There are 8 different book set ranging from Kindergarten levels to third grade, and each set is $30.

Beth

I received this product for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own. For other reviews, please visit the Homeschool Crew Blog.

Menu Plan for the Week of March 5th

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:30:00 +0000

This week brings more sickness to our house. I have had it as has Heath. And we were great parents and shared with our children. Two more woke up sick today, so that is four that have been sick, with four more to go. So today is full of movie watching, reading books, and cuddling when the headaches and fevers are just too much to bear alone.

But, amazingly enough, appetites have not diminished, so here is what we are eating this week for dinner!

Monday- Meatball Subs with side salads
Tuesday- Italian Chicken and rice
Wednesday- Egg Casserole with fruit
Thursday- Crispy Southwest Chicken Wraps
Friday- Homemade Mac and Cheese
Saturday- Leftover Buffet
Sunday- Spaghetti with green beans and salad

The recipe for the subs is actually a burger recipe I think. But instead of making patties, I just use my small cookie scoop and make meatballs. And you absolutely have to make the chicken wraps. We cannot seem to get enough of those! I'll post an original recipe next week, God willing, but this week, head on over to Organizing Junkie's Menu Planning Monday for more dinner ideas!

We are opening windows, airing out the house, and washing bedding. Hopefully we will be done with sick babies soon!

Beth

Reading Eggs

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:16:00 +0000

Over the course of this year we have learned an important lesson. Online schooling is just not for us. From trying to find enough time for everyone to get screen time at the computer, to not having one-on-one face time, it just isn't for us. However, there are good programs available for those who do enjoy learning from the computer. One of those programs is Reading Eggs. It is an online program targeting 3-5 year olds to spark interest in reading through games stories and fun games.

Best is used with a parent, this is a cute place to learn and play. Reading Eggs also offers companion books and writing workbooks to go along with the program. These are optional, but reinforce each online lesson.

Age range:
Reading Eggs seems most suited for children ages 3-5, but their site says it can also be used to reinforce skills for older children. Reading Eggspress is also available for children ages 7-12
Price:
$75.00 for a full year
$49.95 for six months
or a $9.95 monthly subscription
There are three levels, with 40 lessons in each level.
You can also try Reading Eggs for free.

Beth

*** I received a subscription of this product in exchange for an honest review. You can see what the other TOS Review moms thought of Reading Eggs here.***

Menu Plan for the Week of February 27th

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:18:00 +0000

Trying to get back to posting my menus. I make them out every two weeks. But I will just put a week at a time up here at the blog. Of course, I am linking up with Organizing Junkie and her Menu Plan Mondays!

Monday- Stromboli with a side salad
Tuesday- Tex-Mex Beef Casserole and hominy
Wednesday- Daddy's Pancakes and Scrambled Eggs
Thursday- Jambalaya
Friday- Parmesan Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, and Green Beans
Saturday- Brown Beans and Cornbread
Sunday- Soft Tacos

For snacks this week we are having:

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
High Fiber Cereal Crunch

Cereal Crunch

2 cups wheat cereal squares
2 cups rice cereal squares
2 cups corn cereal squares
2 cups oat cereal squares
2 cups flaked coconut
1 cup silvered almonds
1 cup pecan pieces
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup butter
1 cup pure honey

Line two shallow rimmed baking pans with aluminum foil or parchment paper; spray well with cooking spray. Mix together all the ingredients except the butter and honey in a large bowl. Split the cereal mixture between the two pans. In a glass measuring cup, microwave butter on high for 1 minute or until melted. Measure honey in same glass measure; whisk to combine. Drizzle half of the butter mixture over each pan of cereal mixture; gently stir with spoon to coat cereal. Bake at 325* for 30-35 minutes, or until coconut turns light golden brown, stirring every 10 minutes. Cool pans of crunch snack mix on wire racks. Break apart large pieces and store in an air tight container. Makes about 14 cups.

Have a great week eating!

Beth

"Who Am I?"

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 02:46:00 +0000

This is by far the best review product to date. I couldn't be more excited to look through, teach through, and personally work through this particular curriculum. Apologia had once again hit the ball out of the park.

"Who Am I?" is the second volume in the new series, "What We Believe". The series is written by John Hay and David Webb. Each volume is written to be a student directed course, guiding your child to have a biblical worldview. In this volume, the student is using the Scriptures as the lens to view Self-Image.

I have not began using this volume with my kids, solely because I want to take them through volume on, "Who Is God?", first. But going through the book myself, I am in awe. Such clear cut writing, thought provoking questions, and real life application are just some of the reasons we will be using this curriculum. From the textbook, to the amazing journal, and even the coloring book for younger children, each are a resource we can use individually and as a family corporately.

Please visit Apologia to look through the three courses, and make a point to start this series. As a family of 10 on one salary, it is a little difficult sometimes to purchase new curriculum, but this is well worth the price, and sacrifice to add to our families training and education.

Beth

I received this product for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are mine, and mine alone. For other reviews, please check out The Homeschool Crew Blog.

ALEKS

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:29:00 +0000

What is ALEKS? ALEKS stands for Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces. ALEKS is an online program that acts like a math tutor for children in grades 3-12. ALEKS uses artificial intelligence to adapt the questions to discover what a student knows and doesn't know. ALEKS then has a starting point in which to use to perfectly adapt math lessons for each individual student. As a student spends time on the ALEKS site, they will be periodically reassessed to make sure they are retaining what they've previously learned.

Once your child goes through the initial assessment, you can see something ALEKS calls "My Pie." It is divided up into sections and you can see the concepts your child already knows and the concepts they need to learn. From here you can click on the topics and work through the lessons.

This is a pretty decent online math supplement program. However, it is not one that fits well with our family. We just do not use online school programs well. That being said, I could see how this would be a good product for families that need extra support in math, or for a student that needs extra practice. It could also help find weaknesses in your child's current math curriculum, or gaps that they may have.

ALEKS is offering a two month trial offer so you can see for yourself if it is a program that matches your families needs!

Beth

I received a free trial of this product for the sole purpose of review. All opinions are mine. For other reviews, please check out the Homeschool Crew Blog

A Valentine for you.

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:22:00 +0000

So, does anyone out there, NOT know it is Valentine's Day? Today there isn't any sappy stories here. Obviously I am madly in love with my husband of 15 years, and our 8 precious blessings. It is clear that my love for my parents runs deep and true. And it's no secret that I fiercely love all whom I call family. So what am I doing writing a post about this day of love?

Today, it is all about the homeschooling. When we first started homeschooling 4 years ago, we were unsteady on our feet, and shaking with fear. While our convictions were strong, putting that faith to action was hard. And the moment I "came out" and told my small little blogging world we were homeschooling, I was immediately welcomed into a family that acted like they were waiting just for me.

There are days when I don't think I can manage another second. And within moments of posting my distress, I have multiple caped crusading friends flying in to encourage, support, and sometimes just laugh with (or is that at?) me. Then there are the days that I am able to offer up suggestions to someone else. And they are accepted with thanks and grace. It really is a wonderful community and family. And I now have the joy of writing with a tremendous group of women as we share in our triumphs and tragedies that we call our life!

So today I send you a Valentine. One that is heartfelt, prayed over, and given with multitudes of thanks.

Oh, and eat a piece of chocolate for me, K?

Beth

KinderBach

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:24:00 +0000

Our four year old has been "playing" piano since she was two. She is not your typical toddler player either. She doesn't just bang the keys. She gets out her siblings piano music, sits at the piano, and patiently "plays" each piece. She watches the bigs play, then mimics their motions. She also already knows what sounds good together. There are often times that we think our first year player is practicing, to find out it is actually Paulee. Here is a video of when she first started playing.

She cannot wait until she is big enough for piano lessons. And then came an opportunity to look at KinderBach. We have been able to review it, and she has enjoyed it, as well as our five year old.

I have been impressed with what it teaches. Having four older children that have been taking lessons, I have a slim knowledge of things that are taught. And the program hits right on track with most all that the olders have been learning. And it made the littles excited to know they knew the same thing the bigs know.

They have wonderful worksheets and pages for the kids. However, I am not a fan of having to print of worksheets for them. Mostly because I get overwhelmed with the paper accumulation around here. With 7 children working on different levels of school work, we get tons of paper, so adding more is a draw back to me. And it can be difficult running from the computer to the piano. Paulee would prefer to listen to the instructor and play all at once. But, KinderBach has an Ipad app, so if you have and Ipad, I could see how that would be well worth the money!

I think the prices are reasonable. You can get a day pass for $5.95, and access all 240 of their lessons. If you pay by the month, it is $19.99 for the program. We pay $40 a month per child for the bigs to take piano lessons. If you pay for the entire year, it is a one time payment of $95.88. That works out to only $7.99 a month!

Is it the perfect program? Maybe not, but I think it is worth the money!

KinderBach is a great and affordable way to get music lessons in at home and all of us busy home educating families know how great it is to be home and not have one more lesson, activity, or errand to run out and do. And it is even more affordable right now, when you use the coupon code TOScrew2012 which will get you 30% off through February 2, 2013!

Beth

I was given a copy of the product for the purpose of review. All opinions stated are mine alone. For other reviews, check out other reviews at The Homeschool Crew Blog.

The boy.

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:19:00 +0000

I know I have written about Malcolm often. I promise it's not a favorite thing. I will however admit it is a first born thing. There is such a learning curve with him. There are always new firsts, often I am scrambling to evaluate, and to top it off, he is a boy. And that just overwhelms me at times. So I share things about him here. It helps me process, and gives someone the chance to offer me some sound advice. Or at least commiserate with me.

This is the boy I call my Man Child. Malcolm is 13 years old, and already far taller than me. He was hoping to be taller than his father by the new year, but just made it to the same height. His feet look like they belong to a full grown man, but he still has that boyish smile. He enjoys having younger siblings because that means he can still watch cartoons without embarrassment, and at the same time, raids his Grandfather's library of history and science books. These are those awkward years of the in between. And mostly, he is handling it all with grace and dignity. There are moments, however, that the dam breaks and the emotions run raw. It is in those times I am so lost.

So, we started a blog for him. He isn't a feeling kind of guy. He won't spill his guts. But it is a place for him to understand himself. For now, he is writing most of his school essays there. Giving some opinions on art. And the goal is for him to begin growing. As a writer, as a person. Being able to fit into those big shoes. To understand himself, and the people around him. So join the Son of the Preacher Man. It is a hard journey growing up, and he is just beginning. And join this Momma in prayer. For him, and for herself!

Beth

Maestro Classics

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

When our first child was born, we were braced for little sleep, topsy-turvy night schedules, and complete chaos. But Malcolm was never that baby. He didn't get his days and nights mixed up, he would sleep for 4 to 6 hours a stretch at night, and surprised us all when he began sleeping through the night when he was 3 weeks old. He was this mother's dream come true! That is until he was about 4 months old. Then suddenly he couldn't go more than a couple of hours without Mom or Dad, fussing in his sleep even. And all we had to do was go in his room, pat in on the back a little, speak soothing words, and he would settle down. Until the next time. One night, when we were all exhausted and at wit's end, my husband marched in his room with radio in tow. He plugged it in, tuned it to a classical station, and left the room. Malcolm was asleep in seconds, and slept soundly again. The classical station was chosen for it's lack of commercials or questionable lyrics, and the sweet babe was able to calm himself and go back to sleep on his own.

It is now 13 years later, and we no longer have that radio in the room. But that dear child still lists classical music as his favorite, and jumps at the chance to listen whenever he can. We recently were introduced to a company named Maestro Classics, and I do believe they have a customer for life. We listened to Swan Lake on a recent errand run around the city, and the kids and I were captured. The music is of course, superb. But the narration was icing on the cake. Paulee, our four year old, still talks about the princess and wonders what it is like being a swan.

You can buy the CD for your family or an MP3 version. With the music, you also get a 24-page activity book, and a narrative about Tchaikovsky. My children absolutely loved this. It is difficult to find things all the ages in our house will like. And Malcolm? He is sleeping fine, and has downloaded the musical story to his MP3 player!

Beth

*I received this product for the purpose of review. All opinions stated are mine. For further reviews, please visit The Homeschool Crew Blog.

Zeezok Publishing Review

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:27:00 +0000

We are huge movie watchers at our house. But we watch nearly all movies for shear entertainment value. Rarely do we watch them for educational purposes. As a homeschooling parent, that is something I would like to change this year in our home. So I was excited when asked to review a movie guide for Zeezok Publishing.

Zeezok offers many different Z-Guides ranging from elementary levels to high school levels. There are also many different movies available as well. We were given the Luther guide to review, and so we found the movie and began our review.

We began with a pre-movie synopsis, that basically gets the child prepped for the show. Things for which they need to watch, what to expect, etc. There are 10 different activities given to be accomplished over a week's worth of time. There was activities regarding historical setting, research skills, writing skills, hands-on activity, a worldview study, critical thinking skills, and family discussion questions. There is also a section called The Filmaker’s Art activity that helps the student recognize the tools being used to influence the viewer.

This was actually an enjoyable guide. I wouldn't by a guide for every movie we watch during school, but for those I want to expound upon, I would. The Z-Guide for Luther isn't available until February, but they have many others available now for purchase.

Beth

*I was given a copy of this curriculum for the purpose of review only. All opinions are mine. For more reviews, please see The Homeschool Crew Blog.

REAL Homeschool Spanish

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:05:00 +0000

One of the areas I feel least confident in as a homeschooling parent is foreign language. I had two years of high school Spanish, but honestly, I just learned what I had to for the test. Plus that was ***** years ago. If you don't use it, you lose it. I was able to teach my Dad a funny line or two, and know just enough words to impress my sheltered children.

Because of this, I know that I will lean heavily on solid foreign language curriculum throughout school. Whatever my children learn, I will need to learn along side them.

R.E.A.L Homeschool Spanish, by Dr. Karen Williamson-Coria, is designed to teach Spanish to the whole family. The goal is to allow the parent to learn alongside the child. Created for use with multiple ages, the curriculum provides a flexible framework for foreign language learning.

Homeschool Spanish teaches practical Spanish vocabulary and language skills. The goal of the program is to enable you to incorporate Spanish throughout your day, with “Home Educator Tips” and “Ideas” to use Spanish in an immersion environment. It is fun to point out words and phrases as we are about our day. And the kids always giggle when their Dad doesn't understand what they have said. And that gives them a chance to explain, which further solidifies their learning.

The unit lessons are made up of vocabulary clusters and phrases. There are a total of 33 vocabulary clusters and 15 sections of ideas (3-4 pages each). There are fun and practical ideas for incorporating Spanish into your day.

The company’s website has an excellent selection of online resources, including puzzles, games, songs, recipes, videos, history and culture, and much more. The activity sheets for each lesson make learning and reviewing the vocabulary and grammar fun. This, combined with the practical vocabulary and language selections of the lessons creates a great mix for learning the language.

Pronunciation is always difficult. How are we supposed to know how a different language is actually said?! The audio files were difficult for us. The lists were said very quickly, and it was hard sometimes to really understand exactly what was being said. But if you have a little background in Spanish, I think you would be okay.

I have found that I struggle with downloaded curriculum. I just need a book in front of me. But I don't know that I would spend the extra money for the hard copy.

Homeschool Spanish is available as a download or hard copy purchase:

You can purchase the program and read more about all it has to offer here.

You can also read more reviews at the TOS Homeschool Crew blog.

Disclosure: I received the download package of Homeschool Spanish for the purpose of this review. No other compensation was received, and the opinions expressed are my own.

Beth

Bible in 90 Days

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 23:34:00 +0000

I remember growing up as a child being in awe of people who read their Bibles in a year. It just blew my mind. How could they read the whole thing in only a year?! Of course this is the same child that read over 250 books in 3 months so she could get all the prizes offered through the library's summer reading program. But somehow that was different.

This same child was given a One Year Bible in her teen years, and she may or may not have read it completely through during her years in high school. She did however, read every text book from cover to cover, all the appropriate library books in the local library, and read books for the middle school librarian for age appropriateness. But the Bible just seemed like a mountain too big to read.

And as an adult, this same child has multiple Bibles, devotions galore at her finger tips, is married to the preacher, and still, I cannot tell you if I have ever read the Bible cover to cover. There. I said it out loud. No more hiding. No more secrets. You know my biggest fault in which I find much shame. And now, there are no more excuses.

No more is this child going to say it's too big. No more can this child claim it's too hard. The little reading machine cannot pretend there just isn't enough time in the day to care for all that has been given her, and still CONSISTENTLY read the Word.

The same struggles, the same fears are still there. Fear of failing. Struggling with finding out I may not be good enough. Procrastination. Slothfulness. Bottom line, pride. What I want is far more important.

So here I stand, child and woman, together beginning a new journey. I begin reading my Bible cover to cover in 90 days. But I make this commitment not from fear of disobeying God, or fear of the consequences. Nor do I make it from a place of shame and guilt. God is good. And He has offered me His grace, and I accepted. And this commitment is made out of faith and love to my Creator. The Saver of my soul.

If you are beginning a new Bible reading plan this year, let me know. If you would like to join in reading the Bible in 90 days, join our group being hosted by Jessica at Jezamama. She has some wonderful tips, and is a great encourager. And if you don't mind, would you check in on me ever so often to see how I am doing? Cheer me on, hold me accountable, push me when I need it? Tomorrow is the big starting day. There is excitement in the air, and a few nerves as well. Lord, your strength is perfect, and it is honor I wish to bring to You. Cover me, and hold me up as I endeavour to worship you more. God is our refuge, a very present help in trouble. And He uses you and me to be the messengers of that help!

Beth

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:20:00 +0000

Our kids love listening to CDs in the car. Recently, we discovered they enjoy listening to books and other audio stories as well. So when The World’s Greatest Stories arrived, we couldn't wait to listen. Th

e World’s Greatest Stories are dramatized tellings of the Biblical narrative. The text is straight from your choice of the NIV (New International Version) or KJV (King James Version) with nothing added or taken away. They are read by George W. Sarris who desired to increase Biblical literacy in children. He saw the need to produce an auditory Bible that was true to the words of the text, didn’t add characters or remove any of the actual events from the telling but still keep it captivating for children to listen to.

There are currently six volumes in The World’s Greatest Stories Collection. The Crew reviewed Volume 1 The Prophets; which included tellings of The Blazing Furnace, The Handwriting on the Wall, Daniel in the Lions’ Den, Elijah and the Prophets of Baal and The Prophecy of Jonah. Other Volumes include:
2. The Life of Christ
3. Beginnings
4. Joshua and Esther
5. Jospeh and His Brothers
6. Defeating Giants
Each CD is about an hour long so they are great for car trips, to have playing during chore time or to have in as the children are going to bed at night. And at just $7.95 a CD (or cassette tape) they are reasonably priced for just about any budget. If you order six or more items in one transaction, shipping is even free!

Beth

For other reviews, see The Homeschool Crew blog.

College Genius?

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:26:00 +0000

My oldest is 13 years old. He has been looking at colleges since he was four years old. At that time in his life, he was determined to go to Harvard. Not because Mom and Dad suggested it, or encouraged it, but because while reading in the Encyclopedia (Yeah. At four years old, all by himself) about Boston, he learned of Harvard. And he read that Harvard had the first established library in the U.S.A., so it had to be the one place in the entire country that had the most books and best books since they had been collecting the longest. But he did write a letter to Harvard asking that they move the university to Oklahoma because he just couldn't imagine living so far away from home.

Fast forward to now, and the child is still devouring books, and earnestly trying to finish school so he can get to college early. So when the chance came to review College Prep Genius, we jumped at the chance. We have the College Prep Genius DVD set and he immediately began watching the first of 12 lectures to prep him for the SAT. The lectures are about an hour in length, and slightly dry to me, but he soaks them all in. He is normally a very good test taker, but has been very animated after his lecture telling me of new things he has learned, and new test taking techniques. He absolutely cannot wait to take the SAT so he can see how this program has helped him.

If you would like your own copy, you can get the whole program for $99 (a 25% discount) right now through the College Prep Genius website.

Beth

This product was given to me for the purpose of review. All opinions are mine. For other reviews, check out the Homeschool Crew Blog.

Day 6~ The trucks arrive.

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 01:30:00 +0000

Today, we began loading the trucks and trailers. It was a day of sweat, tears, and hard work. It was not a day of smiles and sweet remembrances. We tripped over each other, weren't on the same page, and emotions were raw.

Once we got the loading rolling, things seemed to progress better. We loaded three trailers up with stuff, and headed down the road. One of the trailers carted off our old car. The other two were full of stuff. And there is more packing to finish. More to haul off, to donate, to store. I laughing told a friend I was ready to find some matches for the things we have left.

Tomorrow, we say good bye to our church family. I can't even begin to express how hard that will be. I suppose emotions will remain raw for a while. Between good byes, no sleep, and walking into the unknown, we are going to learn how to deal when on edge. But I suppose that's for the best. If I trust God to take care of my reactions, what needs to be said will, what needs to be held silent, will not be uttered.

I am going to enjoy the extra hour tonight. Probably not with sleep, but with an extra hour to pack, clean, work.

Blessings to you tomorrow as you observe the Lord's Day. Even if it isn't a normal activity for you, seek out the Church House and discover what God has for you.

Beth

Packing~Day5

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:04:00 +0000

Short and sweet tonight. The trailers are coming tomorrow, and we have been busting out all that we can.

The box count is ~~742, 849~~ 127 and counting. There are still some critical things that need to be ready tomorrow, but it will get done.

The wattage on my smile dimmed a little today. I'm having a few space issues. I can't find any place to hide. I'm beginning to process that a long list of good-byes are coming up this weekend, and I'm not ready. Nor am I quite ready to say good-bye to this house. Two of my babies have been born to us while here, and we have four years worth of memories. I think my happy exterior may have a small crack in it.

But, thankfully, I don't have to rely on my armor. I can put on God's armor. Put on His yoke, rest in His grace. Have no fear, because His love is perfect. Yesterday, I went and found a quiet place in my van and sat there for a short while and spent time resting in God. No talking, no whining, no worrying, just rest. God is leading us down a beautiful path, and an exciting adventure. I will sit back and enjoy what He has planned.

Beth

Day What number are we up to?

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 02:43:00 +0000

Day 4, and I don't want to see another box. Actually, it hasn't been so bad. Who am I kidding? I haven't really packed a single box. But the sorting and question answering is becoming trying.

The ~~slave driver~~ wonderful helper, Darcy, wasn't here today. So I suppose I have had my break and tomorrow we will hit the ground running. Heath and I went over to the neighboring community and helped with our last youth lunch. It was nice to see everyone, and to get out of the house for just a little bit.

We have had some families from our homeschool group bringing food to the house. Of all the things we are having to let go of, this group is one of the hardest. These ladies and families have become a mainstay in our home. And a wonderful group of women upon which I rely. I will be going to the November meeting Tuesday, and it just hurts thinking about having to say good-bye. So much so, that I think I'll go ahead and plan on being at the Christmas party in December too. But the meals have been wonderful, and so appreciated. Heath is finishing packing the kitchen tonight, so the meals are becoming a necessity now.

The box count is up to 61, and Heath is still at work.

The crankies are setting in, but that is to be expected. Everything is out of place, so everyONE is being affected. Or maybe that is just me. The kids are doing great. They are getting nearly unlimited amounts of movie time, computer time, and play time. The school books got packed, so they are on a vacation. Heath and his brother, Tim, are constantly laughing and cutting up about one thing or another. Darcy and Thomas have been work horses and in wonderful spirits. Yes, it sounds like maybe it's just me. So, tonight I am signing off, and headed to bed. First to read a little devotion, and then to SLEEP. And tomorrow, I will arise to a new dawn, a new cup of mercy, and the day will overflow with joy and grace.

Beth

Salvete mi Amici

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:14:00 +0000

One of my favorite things we do in our school, is learn Latin. I know, that sounds crazy. But it is one of our frivolous extras. Well, maybe not frivolous, we are very science orientated family, but an extra non-the-less. We have been using a simple curriculum from Memoria Press for the last year or two, but were recently asked to try a more in depth program also from Memoria Press. I jumped at the chance.

Soon, a decent sized box arrived FULL of wonderful learning goodness. And as I began looking through the workbooks, CD, DVD, and flashcards, I began to panic. There was NO WAY we would be able to handle this! I borrowed some big girl panties, and dove in head first.

Memoria Press: First Form Latin is actually an easy to use curriculum that a beginner can utilize. It is a complete beginner Latin course for students fifth grade and older. I have a fifth, sixth, and eighth grader whom I used this with. The kids LOVED the DVD aspect of the course, as did I. Most all of the instruction given comes from me, so to get a different "teacher" was a nice break for them. I kinda liked it too. I could affirm my thoughts on the lesson, or learn the correct lesson, and I didn't always have to be "on" for Latin. There are multiple worksheets per lesson, which gives ample practice time for the kids. And of course they listen to the vocabulary and grammar lessons everyday, thanks to the CD. They study for quizzes and tests together using the provided flashcards, and I use them while doing laundry or cooking dinner to keep up with what the kids know.

You can purchase First Form Latin for $55. After having the DVD and flashcards, I would highly suggest paying the $115 for the First Form Latin PLUS. I know you could make the flashcards yourself, but the DVD really is worth the money.

And one more silly endorsement; I LOVE the teacher's manual. It is spiral bound, and TOP FLIP! I'm really not too sure why, but I just like it! It would have been nice if the students manual was spiral bound, but that may come from my odd aversion to breaking the spine of anything. Book. Workbook. Animal. Whatever.

This is such a great program. So much so, that when we finish up our current course, we will move into Memoria Press: First Form Latin

Beth

This product was sent for the purposes of review. All opinions stated are mine. For other reviews check out The TOS Homeschool Blog.

Packing ~ Day 3

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:42:00 +0000

My brother-in-law apparently said the other day there are three steps in packing.
     #1~Keep it and pack it
     #2~Do I really need this?
     #3~Throw it all out!!!

I'm not quite sure I am at the point I want to throw it all out, but I am already tired of the process. I am worn out, can't seem to make the decisions required of me, and just want it all to be done. But, we have had great help, and are making good progress. Today we have 51 boxes ready to go as of this moment, and we are seeing some rooms become really bare.

I have received many phone calls and some visits from friends. Expecting a few more these next couple of days, and am going to get a few hours children free on Friday.

I have been struggling with some sewing decisions. As most of my avid readers will remember, I make Christmas pajamas every year for my kids. It's a really big deal. With Heath not having a new job yet, and all the transitions going on, I was resigned to not making them this year. It was just not going to be feasible to purchase that much fabric. I really debated too. It was going to be such a different holiday for us all. And then a dear friend from the community showed up on my door step this afternoon with a 15 yard bolt of Christmas flannel she knew I had my eye on for this year's pjs. I was just overwhelmed by her generosity and graciousness. And amazed again by God. He IS there with us. I know yes, He is guiding our steps, calling us to this move, and will provide for us. But God cares for the little things too. In the grand scheme of things, this flannel is a pretty small issue. But my God cares for me, and met this desire of my heart. This will always be a treasure to remember when we look back to this Christmas.

I had one other teary eyed moment. It is probably the hardest I fought to control my emotions. My brother rounded up the chickens today, and took them to his place. I really thought it stupid to cry over chickens leaving, but these were the product of a childhood dream. One that connected me to my dear Grandmother. It almost got the best of me. But, we will be living close to my brother for the time being, so I can go visit them any time I want. And Thomas will bring me eggs, so I have no need for worries or distress. It's a far better idea than my 8 year old who offered, "we could butcher them this week if that solves the problem".

When I wed Heath 15 years ago this night, this was not how we envisioned our anniversary. But we did dream of doing God's work, and following His plan, so I suppose we are just where we thought we would be.

Beth

15 years

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:56:00 +0000

15 years ago, I walked an aisle

I made a promise

I changed my name

We set up house

We began a new life

We learned to share our space

Our thoughts

Our dreams

Our desires

We have welcomed additions to our family

We cried together as others left our life

15 years ago I left the security of my parents' home

And joined my heart to another

I didn't fully understand the promise I made

Or the work involved in a marriage

But with each passing day, I learn more

And discover how little I truly understand

I love you Heath. Far more today than yesterday.

Far more than I even understand.

Packing~Day 2

noreply@blogger.com (Beth) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 02:08:00 +0000

We are still plugging away at this whole packing thing. And I use the word we fairly loosely. Because I really haven't packed a single box. I have sorted toys, been the gopher, ran errands, cooked the meals, and made difficult decisions as to what to keep, store, toss, or donate. While it sounds as if I have the easy job, my husband is quite thankful I'm not actually packing the boxes. I'm just not the organizer. It would take 6 U-Haul trucks if I packed us, and only 1 with Heath being the packer.

We are up to 32 boxes. The boys' room is sorted, packed, and all done except for the stuff we have to have the next few days. The girls' room should be finished tomorrow. The kitchen has been started, and most of the breakable dishes are packed. It still looks like an thrift store storeroom around here, but Heath says there is big progress. I think he is getting into the groove, and is feeling the ball rolling.

I had one small, sad moment today. No tears or anything, but I did pause for a moment at Wal-Mart. They have most of their Christmas stuff out, and that was bittersweet. Heath and I love to go aisle shopping every year and ooh and ah over the new stuff. And I realized that this year, I most likely will not be decorating my own house. That has been a treasured tradition between Heath and I. In fact, we were married 15 years ago tomorrow, and the first thing we did when we came home from our honeymoon, was buy our tree and decorate the apartment for Christmas. But this year, we will probably be staying with my Mom and Dad, and can decorate her 9 foot tree. That should be just the fix I need!

And, to surprise me, Heath brought me flowers, candy, and a card a day early! I sure do love that man!