A Full Heart

Treasures of January

2012-02-01T07:20:00.018-05:00

The "Inconvenience" of Motherhood at Baptist Press

Why I Never Should Have Had Eight Children at Lifesitenews.com

Do Not be Conformed, but Be Transformed at I Take Joy

Don't Baby Proof the House at Raising Arrows

How to Raise Eight Children Without Even Trying at Little Catholic Bubble

2011 Lesson #2: Don't Carpe Diem at Momastery

Maybe I've Ruined my Kids at Inspired to Action

When the Red Light District is in the Living Room at MOB Society

A Kind Wife at Time-Warp Wife

From The Better Mom:

I Believe in Tim Tebow at ESPN.com

From Women Living Well:

The 4 Minute Marriage Habit: How to Make 2012 the Year You Fall Madly in Love All Over Again at holy experience

Grace and Gobs of Toothpaste at Purposeful Homemaker

12 Things Moms of Big Families May Want you to Know at Imperfect Homemaking

15 Ways to Show Disrespect to Your Husband... at The Respect Dare

10 Lessons I've Learned from 30 Years of Homeschooling at HSLDA.com

The Heavenly Work Before Me at Passionate Homemaking

Whose Rights, Anyway? at Meditations of My Heart

How My Mind was Changed (The Vaccination Debate)

2012-01-30T08:39:00.001-05:00

I have a confession. It isn't a huge secret if you know me personally, but since I've never really discussed it openly here, I thought I'd bring it up. I am one of "those" parents - I go against the grain and mainstream medical advice, and... do not vaccinate my children. I wasn't always of the anti-vaccination mindset. In fact, I can easily remember a time about 7 years ago when I thought non-vaccinating parents were endangering their children, foolish, and acting out of fear. Because I have been on both sides of the issue, I know this can be a very heated topic for parents to discuss.

Anytime we, as parents, make a decision that we believe is in the best interest of our children, and it comes under fire, there is a protective irritation that rises up! And, honestly, both sides of the argument have judgmental and extreme supporters who can be offensive at times. My goal is to simply explain my transformation without any offense of judgement toward parents who have chosen differently.

It started out very slowly. My oldest two children are almost entirely vaccinated. When Ezra (#2) was born, we refused the Hepatitis B shot they give newborns in the hospital (questioning the need to vaccinate a newborn against a sexually transmitted disease) and were surprised at the fight we had to put up to stop it from happening. When Joel (#3) was at the age to get the Chicken Pox vaccine, I faced yet another battle when I refused that one. I couldn't understand why there was a vaccine against a common and relatively benign childhood illness. Yes, I understand that it is no fun to see our children sick, but I also don't see the need to try to live in an entirely sterile, germ and illness-free world. It's not realistic, and neither do I believe that it is actually healthy! I believe the immune system is wonderfully designed by God to grow strong naturally.

When his pediatrician gave me a long, dramatic lecture about the horrible dangers of Chicken Pox and why it was negligent of me to not vaccinate my child against it, her strong reaction started to make me wonder. (This was the same pediatrician who, a few months later, told me I would have to wean Joel when he got to be a year old. We stopped seeing her after that, needless to say!) At that point, I started really looking into the vaccine issue.

I knew a few people in real life who didn't vaccinate, as well as friends on-line. As I mentioned before, up until that point, I thought they were foolish not to be vaccinating! But many of them said, "Do the research and see what you find." I had to admit - I hadn't done the research. I read the fact sheets that my pediatrician handed out at each appointment, but that was it. So I really had no argument to support my choice, based on my own research.

At first, the research was really difficult. Many anti-vaccination websites are very extreme - exaggerating claims and playing on fear. That bugged me a lot, because I wanted facts, not emotionally-driven half-truths. So I decided to research where I felt the information would be more helpful in proving my position in choosing to vaccinate - the website of CDC itself. Ironically, the one place I went to try to support my decision is the one place that ended up changing my mind!

The CDC is very open - it has pages that list each ingredient of each vaccine produced by each manufacturer. In my years of motherhood, (and especially having an allergy-stricken child) I had become a very careful food-label reader. I tried to avoid as many artificial ingredients as possible - MSG, hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, and so on. However, it had never once occurred to me to look into what I was allowing to be injected into my childrens' bodies! When I came across this list, and this list... my heart sank.

Formaldehyde? Ethylene glycol (the poisonous stuff in anti-freeze!)? Mouse serum? Monkey Kidney Tissue? MRC-5 (cells from tissue of an aborted fetus?!)

These are all things I would not ever, ever introduce to my children's diet... why was I allowing them to be injected directly into their bloodstream, bypassing the protective digestive system all together?
At that point, after discussing it in depth with my husband and praying about it, we decided to hold off on vaccines for a time being. When Nathan (#4) was born, I believed we would just "selectively" vaccinate - meaning, choose the ones we thought the risk of the disease outweighed the risk of the vaccine. A wonderful, very centered book on this topic is "The Vaccine Book" by Dr. Robert Sears (Dr. William Sears' son). It discusses every vaccine on the market today, it's risks, and the chance of catching along with the risks of each disease the vaccines are for.

We continued to discuss, and to wait... and now, 6 years later, with three children who have been completely not vaccinated, I've had to admit to myself - I'm am not a delayed vaccinator, nor a selective one - I am a non-vaccinator. That does not mean I will never, ever vaccinate, or that I think we should all live in hippy communes and run around naked! No, I am an average parent, prayerfully trying to make the best decisions for my children that I can, as I know most every other parent out there is, too!

You see, I do believe that vaccines are somewhat effective. I don't enter into the argument that swirls around that line of thinking, because I don't consider myself knowledgeable enough to have a firm opinion. But I also believe that adding all of those extra things into a child's body just can't be good, especially at a time when their own immune systems are trying hard to develop and their brains are growing tremendously. I believe in the wonder of breastmilk and it's protective properties that God made it to have. I believe in limiting a baby's exposure to lots and lots of other people (ie. daycare and nursery situations). I believe in good nutrition for mama and baby, during pregnancy, nursing and weaning.

I know that by not vaccinating, I am putting my child at risk for a vaccine-preventable disease. However, I also fully believe that when I was choosing to vaccinate, I was also putting my children at risk for numerous other problems, some more life-threatening than the disease they were trying to prevent. I am concerned by the actions of the pharmaceutical companies - especially after reading about the repeated failures and recalls of the rotavirus vaccine, as well as the absurd amounts of complaints against the HPV vaccine. I believe they are marketing vaccines too quickly, with too little testing, and that we, as the public, are basically the lab guinea pigs in many cases. I know several people whose children have suffered vaccine-related injuries, and it is heartbreaking. I also know several adults who have had adverse reactions to vaccines (most people I know will admit that the flu vaccine is ineffective or even made them sick! Why wouldn't that carry over to other vaccines?).

I know this turned into a very long post, and if you've made it all the way to the end, I applaud you! Thank you for taking the time to read my experience and how we got from there to here. I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, but please remember to keep things respectful, as I hope I have done.

(Oh, and for the record - 3 of my children have had the chicken pox. One of whom had been vaccinated against it! And all are perfectly fine, despite the doomsday prophecies of that pediatrician. In fact, I hope that the rest who have been born since then are able to get natural exposure somewhere in their childhood, as well, to assure lifelong immunity - which the vaccine does not give.).

Homeschooling with Morning Sickness

2012-01-25T21:05:00.000-05:00

As you may have gathered from my last post... we're expecting baby #7! Which is a convenient excuse for my lack of blogging. And cooking. And cleaning. And... basically anything that requires more than lying on the couch!

I am a little over 10 weeks now, and morning sickness has definitely dominated my life for the past 6 of those. However, as any mother knows, when there are other children in the house, it's not so easy for mama to be stuck on the couch. Especially when several of those children are school-aged and mama is the teacher! So I thought I'd share a little on how school goes when I'm sidelined.

Basically, we just simplify. This is rough for me, as I am a checklist kind of girl, and get a sense of accomplishment when I can get to the end of the day and see that we've done everything. But the Lord has taught me so much in this area, mostly through periods of morning sickness - that my value and my worth is not based on my accomplishments! So it is OK to let things go in necessary seasons.

My method of homeschooling makes this really, really easy. First, I eliminate the subjects that need my one-on-one focus (for us, this is Spelling and Writing). Since they are "minor" topics anyway, I have no concerns about dropping them for a while. Second, my independent work assignment sheets allow the big kids to continue moving ahead with their work - they're not waiting around for me to direct them, and filling them out requires very minimal effort on my part. The one difficulty I have run into is checking and going over their work everyday. Since Fridays are light days for us and the boys don't have any independent work then, I've been waiting until Friday to meet and go over the week's work. It's not ideal (especially when there's several days of material they've made errors on and have to go back and fix!), but again, this is for a season, so it works for now.

Thirdly... Sonlight! I can do Bible, History, Read-Alouds and Science (excluding experiments) all from the couch. Not only that, but their awesome Instructor's Guides make it literally "open and go". I do not have to plan, I do not have to stress about getting things together, I do not have to hunt around for extra materials. I keep everything I need for 6 weeks in a basket next to the couch. So. Easy. I mean, unbelievably easy. I honestly believe that with any other curriculum, I'd be totally out of the game and nothing would be getting accomplished. But Sonlight has made it really, really easy to keep on trucking. Have I mentioned that it's really easy? Maybe Sonlight should steal Staples' logo.

I will say that there have been some weeks in which only independent work has gotten done, or only our Sonlight portions. That's me letting go of perfection and surviving the day. By now I've learned that this truly is just a season, and it will pass (no matter how dreadfully long it seems to last!) so I try not to let discouragement catch up with me. I try to keep this mindset for all areas of living during this time. Yes, we may be eating more processed meals, or simple things that children can fix. The house looks like it has been cleaned by children, well, because it has. But as long as we stay on top of dishes and laundry, things run pretty well. And let me say, having older children is such a huge blessing! It is incredible to see the fruit of the hard work of teaching chores and obedience when they were younger!

I am praying that in a few short weeks I will be back on my feet and running things at "top speed" again, but for now, I think we're all appreciating the simplicity!

Wordless Wednesday - Seven! (of a Different Sort)

2012-01-18T07:26:00.003-05:00

Do you like my shirt?!

Joining our family in late August!

Wordless Wednesday - Seven!

2012-01-11T07:41:00.005-05:00

Then:

Now!

My sweet, always smiling Joel celebrated 7 years last week!

Milestone!

2012-01-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 14

2012-01-06T07:14:00.004-05:00

I have some wonderfully exciting news! See this adorable couple here?

That's my sister and her awesome husband. They're celebrating their 2nd wedding anniversary this month, and they are expecting their first baby this summer!! I am over the moon with joy and excitement for them! Because of a few health struggles each of them has had, they actually didn't think pregnancy was at all possible... but the Lord had other plans! It's such a neat feeling to watch my little sister go through the transformation into mommy. I can't wait to meet my new niece or nephew!

We have hit birthday season at our house. Last month, Isaac turned 11! That's weird, to think he's only 2 years away from teen years! *gulp* Here was my sweet little boy back when he was little...

Here he is now! He's exactly 5 feet tall now. By next year, he might be my height!

Please excuse the lollipop stick hanging out of his mouth!

In the next two months, we have four more birthdays coming up! Excitement abounds!

I've always heard stories of younger members of larger families learning to read on their own, basically through just absorbing what their siblings were being taught... and I am AH-MAZED to announce that Nathan (almost 5) is one of those examples! We've been doing basic phonics work (Explode the Code Get Ready for the Code books), and he plays Reading Eggs once a day, but I have not done any formal "this is how you sound out words" type of instruction with him at all. I almost cried when one day a few weeks ago he came to me while I was cooking dinner, asked me to sit on the floor with him, and read me a Bob Book... one that hasn't been read outloud to him, ever. He sounded out each word, only needing help with "and". Totally out of the blue! He then read me three more! I was so proud! Of course, I still plan on doing formal instruction with him, but he's definitely got a head start and a good foundation. I'm still in shock!

We passed another awesome milestone in our house - Judah is officially potty trained! Phew! I think I've expressed before how much I dread potty training. It was surprisingly easy with Judah, though. I had tried a few months ago and only got frustrated because he just wasn't getting it. Waiting those few months made all the difference! In the month that he's made the official switch to underwear (I don't use pullups), he's had maybe 6 accidents total? It is SO nice having only one child in diapers! And just because I adore this picture of him, here's the little man:

I have to recommend a wonderful book - it's called "Loving the Little Years" by Rachel Jankovic. It has blessed me so much through it's encouragement and very practical helps for dealing with all of these little people God has placed in my charge. I have been kind of burned out on Christian motherhood-themed books, because often they either aren't very helpful, or can almost be discouraging in the "picture perfect mother" ideal they present. "Loving the Little Years" is none of those! I walked away from it feeling refreshed and with new ideas and insights! I can't recommend it enough!

To get a feel for her heart, and enjoy some wonderful encouragement, be sure to watch her series "Motherhood and Work" - there are 4 in total, all are less than 10 minutes long, and are chock-full of wisdom!

The Vocation of Motherhood
The Conservative Tendency to Over-Romanticize Motherhood (I love this one!)
Cleaning House and Cleaning Hearts
Too Many Straws in my Milkshake (I love her simple statement here: "Just pour!" I have to admit, I had never, ever thought of it that way!)

I've posted a few of the pictures we had done as a family over Thanksgiving, but I'll go ahead and share a few more. I love the ways these came out!

Yes, they had a portrait done by a disc golf basket. Very appropriate!

All of us with my parents, and my sister and brother-in-law! I love this picture!

A little while ago I was reading in Romans and a verse stuck out to me (I love how that happens). I had to mull on it a bit before I shared my thoughts about it, but I think I've gotten them coherent enough now.

Romans 1 talks all about those people... you know, the lost ones. The ones that have no excuse but still harden their hearts to God? The one I used to be but am not anymore. (Thanks be to God and His merciful grace!) Right? I always thought that, until verse 21 stuck out to me:

For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Wait, they knew God? What was it that caused their heart to be darkened? They did not honor Him as God, or give thanks. That stopped me in my tracks! How many times do I go through my day to day life, not only not giving thanks, but even grumbling about various minor inconveniences?! How many times to I allow my thoughts to give into worry, instead of honoring Him as God and trusting in His sovereignty?! I know God. I believe His word. There is no denying there is an all-powerful, mighty God! Look at His creation, it gives amazing, beautiful evidence of Him! Just like Romans says! But, if I am not honoring Him as God, nor giving thanks to Him... is my heart becoming foolish and darkened?

These thoughts have given me a whole new perspective on the discipline of giving thanks, and of simple faith. I'm not trying to get into anything deeply theological (I am hardly qualified!), but I did want to share how the Spirit worked in my heart through those verses. Have you stopped and given thanks to Him today? Are there ways that you are allowing fear to shove out faith, or even worse, anger to shove out His love? It's worth a little bit of thought!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is off to a blessed new year! Thanks for stopping by!

Treasures of November and December

2012-01-02T07:25:00.007-05:00

Because November was a pretty busy month for me, I never got around to posting my favorite blog posts from that month! So this month's treasures will include posts I found over the months of November and December combined. Enjoy and be blessed!

Why Does the World Hate the Duggars? at Get Along Home

From Raising Homemakers:

From Raising Arrows:

When You Wonder if You Disappoint at holy experience

What I'm Never Going to Tell You at In the Heart of My Home

10 Ways NOT to Raise Your Toddler at Shine

When White Turns into Gold at home & harmony

Congratulations, You Married Mr. Right at pursuing titus 2

The 5 Best Toys of All Time at Wired

At What Cost?: Social Media, Behave! Day 3 at Like a Warm Cup of Coffee

Preschoolers, List of Must-Haves at Educating Laytons

From The Better Mom:

How to Break Your Child's Heart in Five Easy Steps at Jezamama

The Return of the Washerwoman at Traditional Christianity

Exchanging the Natural for the Unnatural at challies.com

How to Be an Amazing Mom Today in 3 Simple Steps at Inspired to Action

The Tyranny of Advice-Column Christianity at The Resurgance

10 Ways to Encourage Your Children at The Homeschool Classroom

To Mary... or To Martha? The Pendulum Series Continues at Visionary Womanhood

Loving My Large Family at Large Family Mothering

Enjoying the Simplicity of Staying Home at passionate homemaking

It's All a Lie at A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

Motherhood & Work: The Vocation of Motherhood at canonwired.com

An Open Letter to Suze Orman at Smockity Frocks

31 Days {Day 5}: It's OK at Bits and Pieces from My Life

From Our Family to Yours...

2011-12-31T09:33:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

May it be filled with the overflowing love of the Lord!

Wordless Wednesday - Us

2011-12-21T07:08:00.000-05:00

TOS Crew Review - World's Greatest Stories

2011-12-20T06:40:00.000-05:00

"The World's Greatest Stories" are an award-winning series of dramatic audio CDs that tell the stories of the Bible, using the direct words of Scripture itself. Narrated by dramatic storyteller George W. Sarris, the Bible comes alive through his skill and passion. Available in both NIV and KJV, there are 23 stories contained in 6 Volumes:

The Prophets - The Blazing Furnace, The Handwriting on the Wall, Daniel in the Lions' Den, Elijah and the Prohets of Baal, and the Prophecy of Jonah
The Life of Christ - The Real Story of Christmas, The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus, The Healing of the Blind Man, Things Jesus Said and Did, and The Real Story of Easter
Beginnings - In the Beginning, A Lame Man in Lystra, A Jailer in Philippi, The Story of Ruth, and The Raising of Lazarus
Joshua and Esther - The Battle of Jericho and The Book of Esther
Joseph and His Brothers - Genesis 37:2-46:7 and 46:28-50:26
Defeating Giants - David and Goliath, Naaman the Leper, Micaiah the Prophet and Jeoshaphat the King, The Sacrifice of Isaac, and Gideon and His 300 Men

(You can hear samples of each Volume here!)

For this review, I received a copy of The Prophets. We opened it up while we were heading for a little day trip about 2 hours from our house, and we finished listening to the whole thing (each CD is about an hour long), the kids BEGGED to hear it again! They loved the voices and drama that were infused into the Bible stories. I loved that it wasn't just a version of a story, it was straight, pure Scripture, presented in a way that captured my children's attention and really brought to life the emotion of every scene.

Each CD is only $7.95 and shipping is free if you order 6 or more, which, in my opinion, is a very reasonable price. My children love audio stories to listen to in the car, at bedtime, or while doing chores, and The World's Greatest Stories are a wonderful way to pour pure Scripture into their hearts in a way that is engaging, exciting, and fun! I definitely recommend them!

Be sure to see what other TOS Crew Members thought by checking out the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

A Song for Saturday

2011-12-17T09:01:00.000-05:00

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 13

2011-12-09T07:20:00.002-05:00

Why, hello there! It's been a while since a "real" post, huh? Let me say, life with 6 children is just different than life with 5. You'd think one more wouldn't make much difference, especially in an already larger-than-average family, but it does! I think the other ones getting older as well has something to do with it, too, maybe. Time just isn't mine to spend as it used to be. So please forgive my sporatic blogging and stop in when you can and I'll try to do the same!

Anywho... here's a brief recap of life lately.

I did it! I ran a 5K - my first one in NINE years! Phew! It was fun and challenging, and I couldn't have done it without my good friends who supported and encouraged me the whole way. I'd like to say I did the same for them but I was too busy trying not to fall down and die, so thankfully they were strong enough on their own! Here's a picture of the three of us, all hot and sweaty.

I really want to do another one, but that would mean, well, actually running again some time soon. So that makes me give it a little more thought.

In other exciting news, Nathan lost his first tooth! It caught me off guard, because he's not even 5 yet! One day it was a little wiggly, and just a few days later, out it came, while he was brushing his teeth. He was super proud - and so was I! There's something about that first tooth that is sentimental for me. Like the first step into big-kidness or something. Of course, I made a scrapbook page about it!

Can you believe Rachel-girl is already 10 months old? She's getting so big!! She's gotten 4 teeth (two top, two bottom), is standing on her own, and can blow kisses! I think she may be the first of all the kids to walk before the 12-month mark... time will soon tell! Here are some pictures!

Her nighttime sleeping has improved, for which I am so, so thankful! Now to get some daytime sleep pattern established. She's busy, busy, busy - always on the go and into anything and everything she can find, especially the stuff she shouldn't be in! Such is life with a mobile baby.

Speaking of Rachel, I wanted to address one of the most asked questions I get: "What's it like having a girl after all those boys?". Let me tell you! It's awesome. It's fascinating. It's fun. And it's a bit on the terrifying side. You see, with the boys, I know that for the most part, they're looking toward Michael for their example of how to be - men, of course. (Not that they're not looking at my example, too, but it's not quite the same!) But now I've got this person to whom *I'm* the main example - of motherliness, femininity, what it means to be a girl/woman... yikes! To be honest, I didn't come into a good understanding of my own femininity until I was in my 20's, and still feel like I have so much more to learn and areas to grow in. So, all my flaws, faults, and failures are magnified to me even more now, and I pray daily for the Lord to make me into a Godly example for my daughter. I'm so thankful that He is faithful and working on me!!

On a bittersweet note - I have resigned from the TOS Homeschool Crew. The year and a half that I was a part of the Crew was a great blessing for me, and I so appreciated the opportunity to participate in the fun reviews! However, I'm just at a point in my life where my blog cannot be a priority any more, and my family needs more of my focus. We also needed less distractions away from our main homeschooling goals. So while it's sad to say goodbye, I'm also excited to have one less extra activity on my plate. I have one more review that will be coming up next week, and that will be the last. I do hope that my time on the Crew has been a blessing to my readers and maybe even helped with a few curriculum decisions!

For Thanksgiving (also my birthday week), we went up to Amish Country in Pennsylvania to visit with my sister, brother-in-law, and parents. We were able to stay in a great little house at my sister's work (Black Rock Retreat Center, in case you're ever in the area - it's awesome!) and it was perfect for hosting Thanksgiving dinner. We spent lots of time outside and playing family games. We also learned a new game called "Ga-Ga" (or "Israeli Dodgeball") - google it if you're curious! It was quite fun and a great wear-them-out game for the boys! There was a nature center with all sorts of various reptiles and other critters, and the kids got to go feed them every day. We even had professional family pictures done, some of which I hope to share soon!

It was so much fun spending time with everyone! Here's a picture of my sister, brother-in-law, and the kiddos (this is not one of the professional ones, obviously!):

(I love the different personalities that show through!)

I promise this isn't an ad, and I don't get any kick back whatsoever for making this recommendation, but I have to share about a product that has revolutionized my breastfeeding experience! Seriously, I would consider this a MUST-HAVE for any nursing mom. What could this be?! Undercover Mama nursing "tanks"! I say "tanks" because they're not actually tank tops - they're bodices that attach to any nursing bra to act as a tank top. You see, regular nursing tanks do not work for me. By themselves, they're not supportive enough. Worn over a nursing bra creates two sets of clasps to be undone. But not Undercover Mama Tanks! They. are. AWESOME. No, really, they are. No more worrying about belly skin showing while I nurse. No more cold baby hands on my side while I nurse. I can wear one under anything, and it's not bulky or too hot (but they do help in adding an extra layer when it's cold outside!), and come in a variety of colors. I *love* *love* *love* them. Can I say that enough? I don't go a day without one on, seriously! Nursing + Modesty = Wonderful!

Well, there's more I have to share, but maybe I'll actually write a real, live blog post sometime soon to share my other thoughts. We'll see if time allows me! Thanks, as always, for stopping by - please feel free to leave a comment to say howdy!

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday - First Album!

2011-12-07T07:08:00.000-05:00

I completed my first Scrapbook Album! Recognize the story line? (Hint: It's from this post!)

Judah's Park Adventure - how to create a free slideshow

TOS Crew Review - Pitsco Medieval Machines

2011-12-06T07:16:00.000-05:00

Pitsco is a company that specializes in educational, hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) products and curriculum, including products specifically designed for homeschoolers. For this review, I received the Medieval Machines Pack, which included a Trebuchet Kit, a Catapult Kit, a Siege Machines book, and counterweights for the Trebuchet.

The entire kit, as packaged.

Catapult

Trebuchet

This pack is specified for Middle School ages and up, so Isaac (5th grade) was just on the younger side for this pack, but he and I had no trouble putting the kit together. It would have been more of a stretch for my younger kids, however, so the age designation is very appropriate (unless you have a younger child who is very into and experienced with models and kits). The instructions were detailed and thorough, but not difficult to follow. The hardest part was waiting for the glue to dry on each step!

Unfortunately, because we were out of town for over a week during Thanksgiving, we did not complete the Trebuchet at the time of this review, but we did complete and use the Catapult. It is a huge hit! The pack comes with clay to make little launching balls out of, and the kids enjoyed seeing how big or small the balls had to be in order to fly the most effectively. The Catapult is quite sturdy and has held up to use in this household of boys! I full expect the Trebuchet to be the same, and we are looking forward to trying it out soon.

Here are two videos of our first tries with the Catapult. We did it outside just in case, but we have since used it inside very safely! The first one hit something and didn't go far, which is why we did a second video - hopefully between the two of them you can get a good feel for the Catapult!

The Siege Machines book includes a history of each machine, and then various experiments to try with each one, as well as space to record observations and results. Science concepts that are taught include Mass, Tension and Torsion, Force and Motion, Gravity and Levers, (plus more) and Mathematical concepts such as averages, metric conversion, and prediction. I, personally, love how so many topics can be covered by playing with a fun toy that my boys love!

The Pitsco Medieval Machines Pack is available for $21.95. To build the kit and utilize some of the activities, you will need basic household items such as glue, scissors, and a ruler.

Also available are Teacher's Guides for both the Trebuchet Kit and the Catapult Kit that include multiple hours worth of STEM activities and lessons. For added savings, you can get everything included with the Medieval Machines Pack, plus the two two Teacher's Guides and extra clay in the Trebuchet & Catapult Pack for $64.95. Be sure to check out many of the other Science, Technology and Mathematical products Pitsco has available for Homeschoolers!

Also see what my other Crew Mates thought over at the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Wordless Wednesday - The Love of Grandparents

2011-11-30T07:33:00.006-05:00

Kregel Publications Review - The Three Trees: A Traditional Folk Tale

2011-11-11T07:04:00.000-05:00

The Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale, by Elena Pasquali, illustrated by Sophie Windham, and available from Kregel Publications, is a touching and beautiful story. Here's the summary from Kregel Publications:

Three forest trees dream of what they will one day become. One dreams of becoming a royal throne; one of being a ship that can withstand any storm; and one longs to stay in the forest and grow as tall as tall can be. When they are felled, it seems their dreams are over. But as each tree is crafted into a new item--a manger, a fishing boat, and a rugged cross--it becomes clear that through the role they play in one important life their hopes are more than fulfilled.

I had actually read this story many years ago, so when The Three Trees arrived at our house, I was very excited to read it to the children. Unfortunately, remembering the story also caused me to do something I don't do very often while reading aloud - I cried! Not because the story is horrible! No, the story is a sweet, tender story showing what God can do with our dreams when we give them over to Him. They might not turn out the way we imagined, but they will turn out to be more than we imagined! The book also tells the most beautiful story of all - the story of Jesus - His birth, His life, His death, and, wonderfully - His resurrection! All written in such a lovely way that my heart was stirred with the beauty of God's lovingkindness and mercy.

Not only is the story wonderful, the illustrations are gorgeous (here's an example):

I couldn't recommend The Three Trees more! The children also love it and ask for it repeatedly.

The Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale is available for $14.99 from Kregel Publications. It is hardcover, 32 pages, and suitable for all ages.

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as participant in the Kregel Publications Blog Tour. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Keyboard Town PALS

2011-11-09T07:19:00.003-05:00

Keyboard Town PALS is a typing program for children ages. Different from traditional typing programs, which focus on speed + accuracy, Keyboard Town PALS approaches typing instruction in a unique and innovative way.

Keyboard Town PALS focuses on a gentle learning approach, not focusing on mistakes and no time pressures. (Click here for a more in-depth look at their method and reasonings.) The lessons consist of 8 videos, each about 6-7 minutes long, so the entire course is about an hour. (The website promotes: "help kids learn to type in an hour!") In the videos, the letter keys are introduced as characters that live on Main Street, Uptown, or Downtown, based on each letter's location on the keyboard. All of the letters' characters' stories intertwine, creating a town of friends on the keyboard, hence the name "Keyboard Town PALS"! As the video progresses, the student is encouraged to type the letters in a text box below the video. Within a very short time, the student is typing entire words, as well as spacing and punctuation. You can see a sample lesson here.

Keyboard Town PALS is available both online and as a CD-ROM, for the price of $39.95, and is available in English, French, and Spanish.

Unfortunately, for us, this program wasn't one that we enjoyed. Before I explain why, I want to remind my readers that just because something hasn't fit our family does not mean it would not fit yours! Each family is different and has different needs and methods that work best for it - that's the beauty of homeschooling, being able to meet those needs individually. So, please read over my comments keeping that in mind.

I, personally, don't agree with the overall philosophy that Keyboard Town PALS endorses. I believe that "Mistakes are opportunities to learn" and should not be overlooked, but gently corrected, so that (especially in learning a skill such as typing) the new skill is learned the correct way. Since there was no correction offered in Keyboard Town PALS, a student could easily be typing incorrectly and it would not matter. It would seem to me that would only cause a development of incorrectly learned habits that would have to be "unlearned" later down the road.

Also, part of the reason no correction is offered is because the instructional portions are just videos. This means that the typing that the student does is not interactive in any way with the instruction, so a student could potentially sit there and waste all their time doing nothing at all or fooling around, unless a physical instructor (teacher or parent) was standing over their shoulder making sure they stayed on task. Even with a diligent child, management would still be needed as there is no way to monitor the student's progress.

My reviewer for Keyboard Town PALS was Joel (6.5 years old), and he did not enjoy the program, either. He thought the main narrator, "Sunny", was (in his words) "freaky", he was frustrated by the fact that he could not use the backspace to fix a mistake when he made one, and that the program would not wait for him unless he paused it, which caused his fingers to lose their spots on the keyboard.

Overall, Keyboard Town PALS was just not a good fit for our family. I have heard from other reviewers that it is a great program for special needs children, and perhaps younger children that just need a basic, gentle introduction to the keyboard. To read for yourself what other reviewers thought, please check out the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog. I highly encourage you to do so, and not just take our negative experience as the only perspective!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Ooka Island

2011-11-07T07:40:00.002-05:00

Ooka Island Adventure is a 3-D interactive reading program designed for ages 3-7. Ooka Island is a virtual world in which children participate in different activities designed to teach phonics, word blends, sight words, and early reading. All of the activities are designed to be fun and engaging, while also educational. You can read about Ooka Island's philosophy, methods and features here.

The student starts their island adventure by creating an avatar. This avatar then travels to different areas in the island, completing various tasks and challenges, for which they receive "Ooka Mist" - a currency they are able to spend later on. Activities include the "Cave of Sounds", in which they have to listen for as well as visually find different phonic sounds, "Alphabet Mountain" in which they climb a mountain by jumping from letter to letter in alphabetical order, and then skateboard back down, also identifying letters, and "Z-Doo", in which the student rides on a watercraft vehicle and has to practice saying various sounds at checkpoints, plus many more! There is also a visit to the "Popcorn Library", where the student hears a book being read to them, and then has to answer some basic questions about the story, as well as learn sentence structure and sight words. As the student progresses in their lessons, more and more parts of the island become accessible, teaching more and more complex skills, such as phonics blending and sight words.

After about 20 minutes of lesson time, the student is rewarded with "Free Play" which lasts about 8-10 minutes. During Free Play, the student can visit "Pencil Playground", where they can play with elves, change their avatar, listen to music, or spend their Ooka Mist on other fun things. The student can also choose to go play some more of the learning activities during Free Play - which, surprisingly, was a popular choice here! That goes to show how fun the learning activities are!

Check out videos on The OokaTube to get a more in-depth look at the program!

Nathan (4.5) was my reviewer for Ooka Island, although ALL the boys enjoyed watching Nathan play. He eagerly asks for his "Ooka Island" time every day (even on the weekends!) and I feel that the program has definitely strengthened his progress in reading.

We did find a few small potential drawbacks that I wanted to address. First, to access the program, it must be downloaded, and it is a very large file. It took several tries to get my computer to complete downloading it, and once it finally did, it took over an hour for the entire download. (Also note, that even though it is a downloaded program, web access is still required to play - not a drawback for me, but just something to keep in mind.)

Second, there area few games that said a microphone was needed for voice recognition so the student can practice saying the sounds. The games are actually still fully functional without the microphone, so if the student doesn't have one, that's OK. However, we noticed that even with the microphone, Nathan could say whatever he wanted into the microphone, and the game still continued as if he were saying the correct thing. I didn't understand this, but the FAQ's on the Ooka Island website somewhat addresses this (and also leads me to another point):

At Ooka Island our goal is to help all young learners achieve reading success. We wanted to make the game accessible to all children, so the game is playable without a microphone or headset. If a child plays without a microphone, she/he will not miss out on any features or activities on the Island.

Not having a microphone does not change the game play experience but it does change the data that we are able to process during play. Without a microphone we are unable to record and process speech using voice recognition. Without this data we are unable to produce a report in the Ooka Lighthouse that displays progress in the Z-doo (Voice Recognition) activity.

It says that the voice recognition feature is used to produce a report in the Ooka Lighthouse, which is supposed to be the parental control spot, where I would be able to see Nathan's progress. However, at the time of my writing this review, the Ooka Lighthouse was not yet functioning, so I can't comment on how well it is laid out or how useful it is. That was a bit disappointing for me, because part of using a computer-based educational program is the ability to track my children's progress, since I am not teaching them directly. I am looking forward to when I can get a look at it!

My final drawback was that I felt the lessons were a bit too long. I'm not a fan of my 4 year old sitting in front of the computer for a half an hour at a time. I know many people don't have a problem with that at all, so its a particular issue I had, and may not be something that concerns others at all!

However, despite these drawbacks, overall I feel that Ooka Island is an early reading program that is effective and engaging, and I would recommend it! You can actually try it yourself for 14 days free, to see what you think!

Here is the pricing list for Ooka Island:

(Please note that if you are a large homeschooling family with more than 4 children that would be using the program, they recommend buying an annual school license.)

Here's a promo code you can use to save 30% on a monthly subscription!

Check out what other Crew Members thought of Ooka Island by heading over the the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Awesome Sale!

2011-11-05T07:17:00.000-04:00

I'm sure everyone is tired of me going on and on about MyMemories Suite and how much I'm loving digital scrapbooking, but I just had to share this! This weekend only, MyMemories is offering a coupon to get their MyMemories Suite Software for only $9.97 PLUS a $10 credit to use in the MyMemories store! Regularly, it is $39.97!

Also, be sure to stop by and "Like" MyMemories on Facebook - they're always having fun challenges and giveaways - and once they hit 10,000 fans, they'll be giving away an iPad 2!

Oh, I guess I should go ahead and give you that coupon code, huh? Use: FB8000 when you checkout, and the price will drop to $9.97!

I *love* MyMemories! Here's a few more of my recent pages:

Seriously, if I can do this, anyone can! It only proves what a great program MyMemories is! Don't miss this great sale!

TOS Crew Review - Bower Books - The Person I Marry

2011-11-04T07:27:00.001-04:00

"The Person I Marry", published by Bower Books, is a sweet and beautifully illustrated story designed to remind readers of all ages of character traits that are important to look for in a potential husband or wife.

In a day and age where marriage is considered disposable, love and lust are interchangeable, and culture as a whole encourages emotionalism and seeking after one's own self, this book is a breath of fresh air!

It lays out sweetly and simply that marriage isn't just about emotion, it isn't just about a big wedding day, and love isn't all about looks. It describes marriage for what it really is meant to be - a lifelong covenant - and goes into detail about important character traits that need to be sought after, as well as developed in oneself, while waiting for the time for that special day to arrive. Traits such as honor, mercy, humility, and most importantly, loving the Lord, are just a few of the many that are discussed. Along with the wonderful storyline, the illustrations are gorgeous! Here's a video with some peeks inside:

The Person I Marry from Bower Books on Vimeo.

"The Person I Marry" is hardcover and 32 pages - a keepsake! It is available at Bower Books for $11.99. It is a part of the "Bright Future" series of books - all of which look as equally delightful! I recommend it for families of any age or gender children, or even as a gift for older children or newly engaged or married couples!

Please check out what my fellow Crew Members thought by stopping by the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog to read more reviews!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Treasures of October

2011-11-01T18:35:00.000-04:00

I haven't had much time this month for blog-browsing, so I know I've probably missed a bunch of really great posts! However, here's a few that I've enjoyed!

Good Mom, Good Kids? at Owlhaven -if you only read one post in this list, this needs to be it!

Living By Whose Standards? at Preschoolers and Peace

Imperfectly Perfect at No Greater Joy Mom

Why I {still} Homeschool at lifeingrace

From Steady Mom:

The Do Not Forget Things at BOOKS and BAIRNS

When the Milkshake Runs Low at Femina

Ask Auntie Leila: Six Strategies for Sibling Rivalry at Like Mother, Like Daughter

Three Things I've Learned About Homeschooling for Kindergarten at The Homeschool Classroom

From The Happy Housewife:

Toddlers, Tiaras, and Fig Leaves at Give Them Grace

15 Ways to Affirm Your Kids at Encouraging Words

An Honest Look at the Postpartum Period at Lambs In His Arms

All Work and No Play: Why Your Kids are More Anxious, Depressed at The Atlantic

From Passionate Homemaking:

From Better Mom:

TOS Crew Review - Memoria Press First Start Reading and Classical Phonics

2011-10-31T21:28:00.000-04:00

Memoria Press is a company that produces Classical-style curriculum for Christian homeschoolers and private schools. Their program for teaching children to read encompasses two products - First Start Reading, and Classical Phonics. Both can actually be used independently of each other, but work wonderfully when paired together.

First Start Reading includes 3 student workbooks and one Teacher's Manual. The Teacher's Manual walks the instructor step-by-step through each lesson, giving a script of what to say, as well as helpful hints to encourage the students. It is written to a classroom environment, but is easy to adapt to a one-on-one homeschool instruction situation. The student workbooks focus on learning new phonics sounds and then learning how to blend those sounds with earlier learned sounds - in fact, by the 5 Lesson, the student is reading their first simple sentence! The workbooks include handwriting practice for each sound, word, and sentence, helping to make the curriculum mutli-sensory - hearing, seeing, and writing the letters. There is also a space in each lesson for the student to color pictures and draw their own pictures, incorporating the material taught in the lesson.

Here are some sample pages of the Workbook:

Classical Phonics is a handbook of phonetically organized word lists (that coincide with the order of sounds and words taught in First Start Reading), which can be used to help a student practice the new sounds and words they've been learning, or to test them on what they already know. Below are some sample pages (you can click to enlarge the images):

I used First Start Reading and Classical Phonics with my 4.5 year old, Nathan. While I felt the method of teaching was good (teaching several phonics then moving into words that use those phonics), for us, the workbook required a little too much writing coordination for my little boy. He got frustrated by his lack of ability to write well, and was not overly interested in coloring or drawing pictures. All of these things I find typical for a boy his age, at least in my house, so I don't know that those things would be a struggle for an older beginning reader, or perhaps a girl. I didn't see this as a negative against the curriculum, just more of something that made it not quite the right fit for us. Overall, I thought the quality of the program was very good, and would recommend it to those who have young early readers who enjoy handwriting and drawing!

The Classical Phonics book was a helpful, non-workbook way to reinforce what we worked on in First Start Reading, and could easily be used on it's own to teach basic phonics and reading. However, it is not scripted like the First Start Reading Teacher's Manual, which doesn't intimidate me, as I've taught reading a few times by now, but if you happen to be one who wants some guidance as to what or how to teach, I'd recommend First Start Reading. But, if, like us, you have a student who is hesitant to do a lot of writing, and you feel confident teaching early reading without a script, Classical Phonics is a great tool! I feel both programs together give the perfect blend of styles and reinforcement.

First Start Reading is priced at $29.95 (that includes the Teacher's Manual and all 3 Workbooks), and Classical Phonics is $14.95. Both are included with Memoria Press' Classical Kindergarten Curriculum, as well.

Be sure to see what my fellow Crew Mates thought of First Start Reading, Classical Phonics, and other Memoria Press materials, by checking out the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Say Anything

2011-10-28T06:48:00.007-04:00

Say Anything is a fun family game from North Star Games, who also make the game Wits and Wagers (which I had the enjoyment of being able to review last year). It is for 2-6 players, ages 8 and up, although my 6 year old was able to play easily, as well. (It is helpful for all players to know how to read and write.) It's a game that not only tests how well you know each other, but also can reveal things you might not have known about each other!

What's in the box:

60 question cards, with 360 topics
Wipe-off answer boards and makers for each player
Wipe-off scorecard
12 tokens (2 per player)
Spinner (officially called the "Select-O-Matic 6000")

The question cards all start with "In My Opinion..." and then has three scenarios on each side of the card that the reader can choose from. The youngest player starts first, and reads one of the scenarios. For example, it might say, "In my opinion, this is my favorite rainy day activity...". The rest of the players have to write on their answer cards what they think the reader would finish the sentence with. When each player finishes, they place their answer card into the middle, face up. Once all of the players have finished, the reader then (without showing anyone) selects the answer they like best on the spinner and places the spinner face down, so that the other players can't see what's been chosen. Then, each player places a token or two on the answer(s) they think the reader picked. Once all the tokens are placed, the reader shows their answer on the spinner, and points are awarded based on the amount of tokens on the answer.

That might sound a tad bit complicated written out like that, but it's actually really, really easy to figure out and get the game going. Not only is it really, really easy, but it's really fun, too! It's a challenge to try to figure out what might get the reader's votes and always interesting to see what they've picked! (Hint - since I play with all boys, I always write down something having to do with Legos, Star Wars, or bodily functions - those get chosen a lot!) The game tends to go by pretty quickly, which is nice for a quick afternoon pick-me-up, and we just play double or triple rounds for family game night.

Because the questions are all based on personal opinion, as well as the wipe-off answer boards, this game is virtually reusable forever! It's a different game each time, which means it never gets old. Young and old alike can enjoy playing Say Anything. All of these factors add up to make Say Anything an awesome family game! Another two thumbs up for North Star Games from our house!

Say Anything is available at different retailers, both online and in stores, and the price is averages about $20 or so. Well worth it for an enjoyable family game! Be sure to find out what other Crew Members thought by visiting the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Wordless Wednesday - Peas

2011-10-26T07:17:00.001-04:00

Seven Quick Takes - Volume 12

2011-10-21T10:18:00.011-04:00

*tap, tap tap* Is this thing on? Is anyone out there? I know my blog has been super quiet lately (did you hear crickets chirping?)! Real life flies by at the speed of... well, life! I've been going along for the ride, with little time to take care of things like blogging! For a quick recap of the past few weeks for us, here's my Quick Takes!

We celebrated Michael's 33rd birthday last week! He took the day off of work and we went up to the mountains to play disc golf (what else?!). The course up there was very challenging (disc golf in the mountains, what else could be expected?) but we had a great time as a family, enjoying the beautiful fall weather and each other's company! Here's the birthday ~~boy~~ man and his boys!

Notice anything different about Isaac in the picture above? Here's another picture for a closer look:

For a little while, he had been complaining about road signs and various other long-distance things being fuzzy... finally it got to the point where I thought I should probably take him in to get his eyes checked. Sure enough, he's got his mama's eyes and needed some glasses. Thankfully, it's not nearly as bad as my eyes, and we're hoping it stays that way! He loves his new glasses - for one, because he can actually see again (go figure!) and two, several of his friends have glasses, so it's the "in" thing in his crowd. I'm really happy that he's happy about them!

We've made an official upgrade! We've enjoyed our wonderfully steady and reliable Suburban for 6 years, but with Rachel joining our family, we had officially maxed it out. We all fit, but there was no room at all for anyone else, which got tricky at times. After a few months of casual looking around, we came across a 15-Passenger van that met all of our criteria, and was in our price range! And it's a pretty fun color, too!

I'm doing something that I swore up and down I'd never do. No, it's nothing all that terribly exciting, but it has made a big difference - I'm running at night! Instead of trying to beat Miss Rachel's wake-up time and getting up at insane hours in the morning, I've found it's so much easier to wait until everyone is in bed to hop on the treadmill. I've always thought it would be way too difficult, because I'm really *not* a night person, but I'm finding it alot more enjoyable, since I don't feel a huge pressure to RUSH or stress about possibly being interrupted. I had slacked off for about a month, but with some external motivation (training to do a 5K with friends!) and this new adjustment, I'm getting back into a good routine. And getting to sleep in a little later!

Speaking of Miss Rachel and her sleeping... something has happened to my wonderfully content sleeper! From the time she was about 6 weeks old, she had been sleeping like a dream - waking only once or twice, often sleeping 10-12 hours straight. Such joy! Right around the 6 month mark, though, something changed. Call it teething (she did get her two bottom ones in), or milestone development (she is crawling everywhere and pulling up on everything!) or separation anxiety, or... whatever it is, it's amounting to NO sleep. Naps are a struggle, and nighttime sleep goes well for the first few hours, and then she wakes up to nurse and wants to stay awake and hang out. For an hour or two. Or three. In the middle of the night. Um... that's not working for me! This has been happening several nights a week for a while, and I'm a little tired (to say the least), and praying we get over this little hitch soon!

Remember that review and giveaway I did for the digital scrapbooking software, MyMemories Suite? Well, it's become a slight addiction for me. I think I do at least one page a day, or work on a page, anyway. I seriously love it! Besides just really fun scrapbook pages - like this one:

I've also realized what neat decorations and gifts I can make! This has been my latest project - making name pages for each child to go on their doors. It's been fun to consider each one's personality and tastes while doing it. Here they are - click to enlarge if you want to see them bigger!

Take a close look at Joel's - we had a compromise we had to work out over it. He wanted a monster on the page, and I wanted the grasshopper (Michael calls him "Cricket" so a grasshopper was a close fit)... and we both won. Can you see his monster? :-)

Anyway, my point is, that the whole digital scrapbooking thing is more than just a way to present photos - it is actually quite versatile! I love it so much that I'm an affiliate for MyMemories now! So, if you order the MyMemories Suite Software, use can use the coupon code STMMMS71850 to save $10 off the software price and get another $10 credit toward stuff in the MyMemories store... and I'll get a little bonus, too! They also have weekly freebies and fun challenges on their Facebook page, so check them out! And if you're still hesitant about buying... and have a lot of patience, I'll be doing another giveaway, probably early in the new year!

In all of my free time (hahahahahaha!!) (no, I mean, the several times a day I sit down to nurse the baby, that's about as free as I get), I've been working through some older literature on my Kindle. Since so many good, older books are available for free, I decided "why not?". I started with Anna Karenina by Tolstoy, and while I found the storyline not quite to be my style, I was very impressed with the writing. Most recently I've been absorbed in Les Miserables - I've been reading it for almost a month now and am only 50% of the way through! Phew! But it is soooooooo good! What has really stood out to me the most from both of these stories is the quality of writing, the use of language, the deep character development - things that are hard to come by in many modern novels that seem to be written with much less depth nowadays. I've gained a new appreciation for what constitutes good writing... as well as an appreciation for the dictionary feature on my Kindle! My vocabulary has been challenged, and it's been fun to stretch my brain a little.

There you go! The basic highlights of life in my world. Forgive me for not being more regular as of late... and thanks for stopping by!

TOS Crew Review - Educating the WholeHearted Child

2011-10-20T06:49:00.000-04:00

Educating the WholeHearted Child (3rd Edition), by Clay and Sally Clarkson, and published by Apologia Educational Ministries, is a 375+ page book written for Christian homeschoolers, as well as parents who are considering homeschooling.

Educating the WholeHearted Child is broken down into four main sections:

Home - focusing on building a relationship with our children and the reasons to choose homeschooling
Learning - discussing various homeschooling styles and how to choose the best for your family
Methods - going into detail about the "WholeHearted Learning" model of homeschooling and how to teach various subjects
Living - how to balance homeschooling and "real life" - remembering that so much of learning takes place during those "real life" times!

These are followed by 40 pages of resources, including planning pages, character traits, chore charts, and book recommendations. (Click here to see the entire Table of Contents.) I was not able to completely finish reading the book before this review was due, but after delving into many chapters and skimming the rest, I know without a doubt that it is an absolute treasure-trove!!

Clay and Sally Clarkson's hearts for families is so evident in their writings, you can't walk away from this book without being encouraged and revived in your homeschooling journey! For just a small sample of how rich this book is, please be sure to read the first Chapter and get a feel for yourself.

This review has actually been a bit difficult to write, because all I can think of saying is, "It's awesome! Get your hands on it!" and how many times can I say that in different ways without sounding like a sales pitch?! But, it's true! I would not only recommend, but highly encourage all Christian Homeschoolers, new, veteran, or even "just considering" to read this!

Educating the WholeHearted Child is available from Apologia Educational Ministries for $22. It is well worth it! Apologia also offers many other Christian books for parents and children, as well as curriculum.

Also be sure to see Clay and Sally Clarkson's ministry page, "Whole Heart Online" for more encouragement!

You can read other TOS Crew Member's reviews on Educating the WholeHearted Child at the TOS Homeschool Crew blog. I think you'll be hard pressed to find a negative one! ;-)

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Visual Latin

2011-10-10T08:09:00.002-04:00

Visual Latin is a unique video-based Latin course, designed for ages 9 and up. Created by two homeschooling dads, Visual Latin offers two levels of instruction - Level 1 and Level 2, with each level containing 30 lessons, enough for about two year's worth of Latin instruction together.

Each lesson is broken down into three parts - Grammar, Sentences, and Reading. Each of those sections is taught in a brief video, usually about 6-10 minutes long, and followed by an accompanying worksheet that gives an overview of the lesson and some work for the student to do to practice the lesson.

What makes Visual Latin unique? Several things:

Humor plays a big part in each lesson - Dwane, the instructor, has a wry, witty sense of humor that keep the kids interested
Lessons are short and not overwhelming
The format is realistic - instead of memorizing complicated conjugations, the lessons use more of an immersion method - grammar is taught, but then the students get to see it and use it in sentences and reading, seeing and experiencing how it actually "works"
Because it is in video format, it is easier for the students to get a feel for the language, by hearing it and also by having an experienced Latin teacher demonstrate it's usage. It's like having a private Latin tutor!

(For more reasons from the creators' own thoughts, be sure to check out "The Unique Design that Really Works"!)

For this review, we were sent a DVD for Lessons 1-10 (lessons can also be purchased as downloads in HD m4v and iPod m4v formats). We followed the recommendations included with the video - we watched the video for one section of the lesson, and then did the accompanying worksheet. Since each lesson is broken down into 3 sections, we did Latin 3 days a week. The amount of time spent on Latin each day was probably no more than 15- 20 minutes, if that.

I was very curious to see how Visual Latin would go over for us. I've never really had a desire to teach Latin, and wasn't sure how enthusiastic the kids would be over it. And the whole idea of Latin instruction that could be humorous? I always sort of perceived Latin to be a rather serious, stuffy language, so I was skeptical!

However, after watching just the introduction Lessons, I was more eager to give it a try. The kids warmed up to Dwane (the instructor) right away. He's... funny! In a very witty way that makes the kids laugh, but isn't corny for grown-ups. He comes across as a very down-to-earth and enjoyable teacher. He also addresses the students directly, which I think the kids enjoy. I also appreciate that he is a Christian, homeschooling dad. He makes many references to God, as well as jokes about homeschooling. That makes me feel as if he understands how to relate well to the students he's teaching. Here are some screen shots (the kids call Dwane "the guy in the blue shirt"- you can see why!):

But aside from the instructor's personality... what about the lessons themselves? I've been very pleased! At first I was nervous that some of the grammar concepts would be over the boys' heads, but they took to them without any problems. I think much of that has to do with not just having it taught, but them actually reading it and having to use it in real sentences makes it much more natural. Right away they started noticing words that they've learned from their Spanish lessons and seeing similarities. They think it's almost like a secret code, and enjoy trying to decipher new words they're introduced to. I find that I'm eager to delve more into learning some Latin myself!

All in all, we've been quite please with Visual Latin and will be continuing the lessons. That says alot, considering I thought we'd never "do" Latin!

Get a glimpse for yourself - you can view a Sample Lesson, or even download some Free Lessons (4 Intro Lessons and 2 Regular Lessons). Be warned, though - you might just get hooked! Who knew learning Latin could be interesting and fun?!

Want to know a few more details? Be sure to check out their Q&As!

DVDs contain 10 lessons each, and can be purchased singly for $30 a piece, or an entire level (30 lessons), for $80, for single family use (they also have pricing for co-op/class use). Downloadable lessons are $25 for a 10-lesson set for single-family use.

If you are looking for a enjoyable, easy-to-learn Latin course, I definitely recommend Visual Latin!

See what other TOS Crew Members thought of Visual Latin by checking out their reviews at the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Wordless Wednesday - Homeschooling Boys

2011-10-05T06:41:00.000-04:00

The Winner Is....

2011-10-04T07:27:00.009-04:00

I'm happy to announce that the winner of my My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbook Software giveaway is...

*drumroll*

Lisa, from My Homeschool Circus! Lisa happens to be a fellow reviewer for the TOS Homeschool Crew! Congratulations, Lisa!

For all of you who didn't win, thank you for entering! Remember, I have an awesome coupon code you can use for $10 off My Memories Suite AND another $10 Credit to use at MyMemories.com. That's a $20 value!! Just put My Memories Suite into your cart and enter coupon code STMMMS71850 when you check out!

And, since I'm enjoying digital scrapbooking so much... be on the lookout for some more pages from me! I'm definitely hooked! (Here's another one, just for fun!)

Last Day to Enter!

2011-10-03T06:50:00.002-04:00

(This Give Away is now CLOSED! Thanks to all who participated!)

I just wanted to remind everyone that today is the last day to enter my My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbook Software giveaway! (Phew, that's a mouthful, lol!) There are less than 20 entries with only 12 hours left, so be sure to get yours in! (Please don't post entries here, make sure to go directly to the original giveaway post!)

And just for fun, here's a page I made just recently:

I'm pretty excited about my new hobby! It's so fun and easy! Remember, the giveaway closes tonight at 5pm! Come back tomorrow to see the winner!

Treasures of September

2011-10-01T07:17:00.005-04:00

Freedom at Sonlight Blog

When the Gentle Words Won't Come {Hope for the Weary Mom} at MOB Society

What Our Husband Needs More than Sex at Ordinary Inspirations

Raising Kids is Heart Work at Family Matters Blog

From The Better Mom:

Abundant Grace and Teaching Moments at Preschoolers and Peace

Heart Talk at (in)courage

The Tunnel of Parenthood at One More Soul

Taking the Fear Out of Your Year at Heart of the Matter Online

10 Things to Do Every Day to Stay Organized at Organizing Your Way

Homeschool Blindspots at JoshHarris.com (I have loved Reb Bradely's ministry, Family Ministries, forever - he and his wife have blessed me tremendously through their teachings!)

From Smockity Frocks:

Clarfying our Ministry as Moms at Encouraging Moms who Homeschool

Calm in a Storm: How to Stay Peaceful while Childrearing at Ladies Against Feminism

A Few Introductions at Parenting Post (Parenting.com)

Ask Auntie Leila: How Do I Tell People We're Having Another Baby? at Like Mother, Like Daughter

Does Peeling an Orange Exhaust You? at Wizzley

The Ripple Effect of One Grumpy Woman at True Woman

From Raising Arrows:

Ungraceful Parenting at Femina

Magnifying God's Glory through My Weakness at Doorposts of Your Home

Are You Raising Warriors or Refugees? at I Take Joy

Wordless Wednesday - On the Go

2011-09-28T06:22:00.000-04:00

(Don't forget to enter the My Memories giveaway! It ends Monday, October 3!)

My Memories Review and a Giveaway!

2011-09-26T06:52:00.010-04:00

(This Give Away is now CLOSED! Thanks to all who participated!)

Sometimes, I really surprise myself! I don't consider myself the "creative" or "artistic" type, not by a long shot. I'm also not especially gifted at technology - blogging is about as technologically creative as I get, and that's because it's pretty easy! Because of these two things, I have never considered trying my hand at digital scrapbooking. I've often admired the efforts of friends who do it so well, but that's as far as it went.

Keeping all these things in mind, you can imagine what I thought when I was given the opportunity to review My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbook Software! I figured I'm probably one of the best candidates to review it, considering my qualifications (or lack thereof)!

Well, I've been playing around with the whole digital scrapbook thing for a few weeks now, and let me tell you - I am sold! I don't know a thing about other scrapbook software, but My Memories Suite has made my introduction into scrapbooking an absolute breeze!

Downloading the software went without a hitch. When I first open the software, I am given the choice of either using a pre-made template of pages, or designing my own. In a pre-made template, there are lots of choices included with the software, and more choices available at the My Memories website - many for free, which is good for my budget! Then, I can choose which order I want the pages laid out in, and whether or not I want the pictures automatically filled in, or if I want to place them myself. Then, I am prompted to select the photos I want to include, and... Tada! A beautiful scrapbook! Really. It's that easy. Crazy, huh?

These are two of the FREE! pre-made pages available on MyMemories.com

One of the nice things about the pre-made templates is that they can still be edited to add a more personal touch. So they can be used as-is, or as a "starting point" to get creative juices flowing!

After giving the pre-made templates a try and seeing how simple it was, I decided to try my hand at creating my own. That took a little more time, as I am an admitted perfectionist... but, it was still amazingly easy. There are many so many papers, fonts, embellishments, and even features like video and audio to use and choose from! Here's my very first attempt (inspired by a recent post):

You can see that at first I was a little afraid to get too creative!

Then, I got a little braver and played around with more embellishments:

I get so excited every time I finish a page! I can't believe I can actually do this, and so easily, too!

It's hard to even go into detail about ALL of the neat features that are a part of My Memories Suite. Photos can be cropped, shaped, sharpened, the color changed, red eye removed, and other editing, all within the software. Embellishments are infinite, it seems - there are so many incredible options! You can even add music, narration, links and other multi-media to a page or an entire book. Who knew?!

There are also many tutorial videos on YouTube as well as the My Memories Blog... and they have loads of helpful information. The more I learn, the more amazed and excited I am at what a neat tool My Memories Suite digital scrapbook software is!

I wanted to add a little something about my experience with My Memories Customer Service. In my first try in downloading a kit I purchased from the website, I was able to download and install it correctly, but then... couldn't find it in my software! (That's my technological ineptitude for you!) The FAQs on the website were very helpful, but I still wasn't getting it, so I emailed Customer Service. They replied in just a few hours, with very helpful and precise instructions, and I was easily able to find and use my downloaded page. I always love a company with fast and efficient Customer Service!

Plain and simple, the software is easy to install, easy to use, and brings out the creative inspirations I've had hiding somewhere and never knew! Whether you're a digital scrapbook newbie, like me, or a seasoned pro, I definitely recommend My Memories Suite Scrapbook Software!

Here's the really fun part! You can WIN your own My Memories Suite Scrapbook Software (a $39.97 value!). There are several ways to enter - please leave a comment for each way you enter:

This one is required to enter! Visit MyMemories.com and take a peek at their cute kits, papers, and embellishments. There are tons, so try not to get overwhelmed! Come back and share with me your favorite, and what you might use it for!
"Like" My Memories on Facebook for 1 extra entry
"Like" A Full Heart on Facebook for 1 extra entry
Share this giveaway on Facebook for 1 extra entry
Follow my blog (see right sidebar) for 1 extra entry

If you don't want to wait around to see if you might win, I've got an awesome discount for you! Use coupon code STMMMS71850 to get a $10 discount off MyMemories Suite Scrapbook Software, as well as a $10 credit at the MyMemories.com store!

This giveaway will close at 5 pm Eastern on Monday, October 3 - that's 1 week! I'll pick the winner that evening and post it on Tuesday, October 4! Have fun!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Timberdoodle Review - Purpllinker

2011-09-23T06:46:00.000-04:00

It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's a....

Purpllinker!

Purpl... what?! Purpllinker! Don't worry, we just affectionately call it the "purple thing". What is this long, bendy purple thing, you ask? It's a great manipulative (and toy!) from Timberdoodle (one of the most fun homeschool supply resources around)!

I'll be totally honest here - I was given a few choices of items to review, and the Purplinker was not my first choice. I didn't think it looked very... interesting. Boy, was I wrong! From the minute the package was opened, the "purple thing" quickly became the most fought over item in the home (Well, Michael and I usually share, but the boys have some trouble!).

Intended for ages 3 and up, and included in Timberdoodle's Preschool Curriculum, every single one of my children love to "fidget" with it. It gets carried in the car, played with during read-alouds, used for quiet time, and occasionally confiscated as it attempts to be used as a sword or other weaponry. (Hey, this is a houseful of boys, what else is to be expected?!) Thankfully, because of it's rounded edges and lightweight, flexible deisgn, it's never done any damage!

It's actual purpose it to be used as a manipulative to help children with early phonics - making reading "hands-on" through the child shaping the Purpllinker into various letters. Of course, this can also carry over into math, being used to make numbers or shapes. It's not always as easy as it looks, however, so it's also a great thinking skills and coordination tool! The package comes with instructions demonstrating how to make each letter, number, and shape, but I've found it far more interesting to allow my children to try to figure it out themselves!

Here's Nate (4.5 years old), using the Purpllinker to make a "d", which is the letter he's currently learning in Explode the Code book C:

It has 7 "links", so it's long!

Thinking hard!

No, silly! That's an "L"!

That's close! Try a little more...

Yes, it is tricky!

Hooray! We got it!

I was pleasantly surprised at the versatility, usefulness, and FUN! that the Purpllinker supplies. I definitely recommend it! It is very reasonably priced at only $11.25 and can be found at Timberdoodle!

By the way, if you don't already get Timberdoodle's catalog, you're missing out! I actually hide mine when it comes so I can read it in peace and quiet without lots of little eyes peering eagerly over my shoulder. It's FULL of unique and interesting homeschool supplies! Also, be sure to "like" Timberdoodle on Facebook, too!

As a member of Timberdoodle's Blogger Review Team I received a free Purpllinker in exchange for a frank and unbiased review.

Wordless Wednesday - Venerunt, Vindirunt, Vicerunt

2011-09-21T07:23:00.000-04:00

They came

They saw

They conquered!

TOS Crew Review - Before Five in a Row

2011-09-16T08:08:00.133-04:00

Five in a Row is a curriculum that is thoroughly literature-based and whose authors have a heart for helping children love books and love learning.

First, a basic explanation of what the "Five in a Row" concept is all about - good, quality, age-appropriate literature is used as a base for unit studies. One book is read for five days (hence the "Five in a Row" name!) and used for discussions and teaching about everything from art, to geography, to math, science, social studies, and more! While FIAR's main curriculum is for grade school on up, they also have a curriculum just for preschoolers (ages 2-4), called Before Five-in-a-Row.

The vision statement for Before Five in a Row is this:

"Dedicated to protecting and nurturing the early years of childhood, Before Five in a Row opens up the world of learning through great books and creative play, and builds a solid foundation for more formal education to come."

Before Five in a Row is divided into two parts. Part One contains 24 "lessons" - each lesson for one story. Each lesson gives a basic summary of the story, includes Bible verses that can go along with the story, and many different suggestions for light activities or discussion topics for each story. Part Two is the "Parent's Treasury of Creative Ideas for Learning Readiness" and is a plethora of suggestions and resources for gentle things to enjoy with your child throughout their everyday living.

The activities are very light, easy to do, and natural - occasionally there were suggestions that needed materials to prepare for, but usually the activities had to do with the book itself, or having the child think creatively about the story.

There is a small amount of prep work I felt necessary for each lesson - first and foremost, locating the book! Many are classic stories that we already had in our personal library (13 to be exact), and most others were found easily at the public library (our library had 7 that I didn't own). There were a few titles listed (4) that are actually out of print, so I was not able to find them - most were available on amazon, but prices varied. After gathering the books together, I did a brief run-through of the suggested activities and made note of which ones I wanted to do, and what supplies might be needed. That took all of 5-10 minutes, so prep time was really very low!

My reviewers for Before Five in a Row were Judah (age 2), Nathan (age 4), and even Joel (age 6). They all loved Before Five in a Row! I don't know any child that doesn't want their favorite book read again and again and again, so each day when I pulled out the book of the week, they were very happy! (Admittedly, Joel, being the "big kid", tended to object on the second day, but by the third or fourth day, he would ask for the book, too!)

I'll go ahead and be very blunt about my impression of Before Five in a Row (and if you've read my blog very long, this won't surprise you!) - I LOVE it. Love, love, love it. From their philosophy of childhood learning, to the beautiful books they've chosen, to the gentle, age-appropriate lessons they've pieced together, I feel that Before Five in a Row is a wonderful way to introduce a young child to the love of literature! As well as a beautiful way to make memories together - snuggling up, reading stories and having delightful conversation.

Here's a quote from the introduction of the Before Five in a Row guide (which sums up my opinion of early childhood learning to a "T"!):

"Above all, the time between ages two and four should be a time of sharing, hugging, reading, singing, dancing, puzzles, blocks, outdoor excursions, swinging high, playing in the sand box and enjoying fascinating introductions to the wonderful world of life.

The ideas presented in Before Five in a Row are not meant to teach in depth, but only to enhance your child's awareness of the world around him and create memorable times of interaction between you. ..."

There are, however, two things I wish were a little bit different - one, I wish the parent's guide was spiral bound - I tend to feel that most teacher's guides are easier to handle when spiral-bound and this one is no different. Second, I wish that the book guide and activities were updated so that the books that are out of print were replaced with easier to find books. Both of these "complaints" are very small in my mind and would not deter me from using Before Five in a Row!

Also, I wanted to add - the book is very age-appropriate for the recommended 2-4 year old range. I consider that a good thing, but could present a difficulty in trying to combine an older student K or 1st grade child (such as my Joel, for example). Thankfully, it is very easy to find additional resources around the web designed to use with Before Five in a Row to help it cover an even broader age-range. The stories themselves are timeless so that any age can enjoy them - so, with the help of a few supplemental activities, Before Five in a Row can easily be used for early elementary years, as well.

The parent's guide is priced at $35, and the books are sold separately or available at your local library. Many you probably own already!

As you can see, I would recommend Before Five in a Row in a heartbeat to anyone looking for a nice, gentle way to spend some structured "learning" time with their preschooler.

See what other TOS Crew members thought of Before Five in a Row at the TOS Homeschool Crew blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Big IQ Kids

2011-09-14T07:20:00.000-04:00

Big IQ Kids is an online drill program which covers math, spelling, vocabulary and U.S. geography, for grades K and up. Winner of the 2011 TOS Homeschool Crew Blue Ribbon Award for "Best Online Resource", Big IQ Kids offers both free and priced (premium) programs.

For this review, we were given access to their Premium Math and Premium US Geography programs, which have many additional features compared to the Free versions. Some of these features include the ability to create a custom Big IQ "Buddy", automatic advancement to new levels based on performance, saved scores, and emailed progress reports... plus more! (To see a full comparison, see their Free vs. Premium Math and Free vs. Premium U.S. Geography charts on the Big IQ Kids website). We also used the free spelling and vocabulary program.

Each subject is designed to be done once a day, with each lesson taking no more than about 5 minutes. I had my testers (Isaac (10) and Ezra (9)) go through Geography, Math, and Spelling and it always took them less than 15 minutes to complete the entire cycle. For each lesson the student completes, they are rewarded with a coin that can be used in the game room, or used to enhance their Big IQ Buddy. Most of the games in the game room cost one coin, and there is a large variety of games available, so the boys enjoyed that aspect quite a bit.

Math is set up just like a page of drills. I was easily able to adjust which math facts I wanted each boy to review, and how many they were required to do in each lesson. I appreciated that it went beyond just the 0-12 facts and the kids were able to practice multiple digit facts, with borrowing and carrying! Once they showed mastery at a certain table, they were moved onto the next one, automatically, and I was sent an email report letting me know. This made it very easy for me to keep track of their progress! One trouble they did have was when it came to typing in multiple-digit answers - it had to be typed in order of units, tens, hundreds (right to left, as when figuring out a math problem) The boys were using scratch paper to figure out the actual problems and would get frustrated when they would try to type it in as a regular number (left to right). Once they got the hang of it, however, it wasn't a huge issue.

U.S. Geography was probably their favorite portion. For geography, they would select a state to learn about, and the program would tell them a few facts about that state. Then they would be quizzed on a fact to see if they were paying attention. There was a rapid "place the state" game in each lesson, in which they had to drag a state to it's proper location within the time limit. It would only do a few states at a time, not all 50, so it was quick and fun. Also included was a state capital review as well as a state abbreviation review - these were both similar to the "place the state" game. If they did poorly on recalling the state facts, I was sent a progress report letting me know.

The spelling program is great, as well! I could either enter my own spelling lists, or choose from a generic grade-level list. I decided to go with a grade-level list and felt the words were grade-level appropriate. The spelling incorporated games with pop quizzes, and tests. I received progress reports emailed to me to let me know how each pop quiz and test went, as well as words that were missed and how the attempted spelling the missed words. I enjoyed that part, because it was helpful to see their weaknesses, as well as rather funny to see what spelling the boys would come up with!

The one complaint from the kids about the overall program was that the computerized voices were annoying. Other than that, they really enjoyed Big IQ Kids! The game coins were a huge incentive. They quickly figured out that some games lasted a rather long time, and learned to budget their coins wisely on games that were worth their while.

You can read more about how it works, see the various pricing options, and read the FAQs and more on the Big IQ Kids Website! Also see what other TOS Crew members thought by checking out the TOS Homeschool Crew blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

All You Ever Wanted to Know (and Probably More) About Disc Golf

2011-09-10T14:04:00.000-04:00

I've mentioned a few times that Disc Golf is one of the family activities we participate in. Let me clarify - it's an activity that Michael and the boys do. I don't. It's a bit hard to play while wearing a baby, nursing, or pregnant, so that leaves me out most of the time. However, it really is a great family sport! All ages can participate, and it's really inexpensive.

Our two oldest boys have participated in several leagues and one tournament, and are quickly making a name for themselves among the local disc golf crowd. The littler kids are up-and-coming - even Judah can toss a disc pretty well! We have a practice basket in the back yard, and the kids spend many afternoons out there "putting" around! It's a slight obsession among a few of us... to say the least! I won't name names, though.

What is Disc Golf, you ask? Let me share this video! It's pretty informative, but I like it best because there are some good scenes of Michael, Isaac and Ezra playing. :-D

See if you can spot them - Michael wears a red hat, has a beard, and his typical "disc golf" outfit is a blue shirt with tan shorts. Isaac and Ezra are the only non-adults shown playing, so they're easy to spot. Sometimes Joel, Nathan, and Judah make appearances, too, but you've got to be on the look out for them!

Here's my guys... and a lot of information about the wonderful world of Disc Golf!

Seven Quick Takes Friday - Volume 11

2011-09-09T07:14:00.000-04:00

I didn't do any Quick Takes in August, so I have to start out with a little celebration! Ezra turned 9 last month! It was a very fun day, as Michael surprised him by taking the day off so they could spend some one-on-one Daddy/Son time. He tries to fit in a special day with each of the boys on their birthdays, but usually it has to wait for the weekend. It's a fun tradition that they all look forward to and makes their birthdays even more wonderful for them. Here's the happy birthday boy!

His presents consisted of a new Disc Golf disc, and legos galore. He said it was the "best birthday EVER!" but I think he says that every year!

And of course, in the last month, Rachel passed her 7 month marker! She's starting to think about crawling - she can get to hands and knees pretty quickly, but is still figuring out what to do other than rock back and forth. She'll be getting it soon, I can tell! She wants to be on the go! It also seems like she's getting a tooth in... there's been a lot of swelling, bubble blowing, and more nighttime wakings, so it seems like it is on the verge of popping out! She's also started solids - she isn't all that interested, however, so I'm just taking it slow and letting her have fun with it. She likes the spoon more than the food on the spoon!

Rachel's first time on the swing!

I wanted to share some beautiful handiwork made by my friend, Amy. She hand makes custom picture frames, and they are goregous! Here's the one she made for Rachel - I gave her free reign to do what she wanted, and it was absolutely perfect. I'm still having trouble deciding what picture I want to use in it!

And here's one she did for Judah when he was born!

You can see more of her handiwork at her blog! These make wonderful gifts, for all sorts of occasions!

Check out this super cool video! It's really awesome, and convinces me ever more so that life was truly created with such intricacy and detail by an incredible creative and amazing God!

This week, we finally finished up the last of Sonlight's Core D! We had finished it a little unevenly, as we got ahead of schedule in some areas and behind in others... but now everything is complete! It was a great year, and I love Sonlight as much as I did when we first started, a little over a year ago. We're going to take a week to get organized and then we move onto Core E!

I have to confess, my "getting up early and exercising" progress has fallen totally to the wayside. A number of circumstances (including a loss of air conditioning for 2 weeks, followed by house guests for another week) really threw me off. So I'm a little nervous about getting back into my running plan and seeing how far behind I've fallen. Will I have to start from scratch again? I guess there's only one way to find out... and that's to just give it a go! I'm mentally preparing myself to get on the ball starting next week. I'll also admit that I'm not totally excited about it! But I know that I always feel better when I'm making that time.

This weekend, our marriage will be hitting it's teenage years! Sunday we will celebrate 13 years! God has certainly brought us through many ups and downs, and we've (literally) grown up together as we've grown closer to Him. I am thankful beyond what I can express for Michael and his love and leadership!

Here we are on that day!

And here we are at wedding, just last week:


(Michael was the best man in a cowboy-themed wedding, hence the hat!)

Boy, do the years fly by!

TOS Crew Review - Time 4 Learning

2011-09-07T08:01:00.000-04:00

Time 4 Learning is a online curriculum, for grades Pre-K - Middle School. It includes Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies and can be used as a complete curriculum or for needed extra learning, such as during the summer or after school hours.

The program is deigned to be used independently by the student, with parental progress and attendance reports available to see how your child is doing, through the Parent Administration page. It is easy for a child to figure out what lessons to do, as they are arranged in order and have visual prompts to guide the child along. The main work the parent or teacher has to do to get a child started is to decide how many lessons of each subject they would like the child to complete in a day.

Here's a video demonstration of how a student would log into their account and access their lessons:

(You can see more Time 4Learning Videos on their YouTube page)

From each grade, the child or parent can also access one grade up and one grade down. This is an asset, because while a child might be on a certain grade level for Math and Science, they may need a higher or lower grade for Language Arts, or other variations. So having a range of grade levels available is a real plus!

After lessons, the parent has the option of allowing the child access to the "playground" area, which is a compilation of various (age appropriate) games. The parent can control both how long the lesson time should be before the child is allowed to access the playground, as well as how much time they are allowed to spend on the playground. There is an option to restrict playground access completely, as well.

For this review, we used this program for several levels - Pre-K, 1st grade, 4th grade, and 5th grade. Pre-K through 3rd grade are considered "Lower Level", while 4th -8th grade are considered "Upper Level". You can see lesson plans and scope and sequence for each grade here. It appears to me that the levels are divided so that the games available on the playground are age-appropriate and easy to play.

At the Pre-K level, there aren't "subjects" as there are in the other grades, instead there are themes that a child can choose to learn about - rhyming, colors, numbers, shapes, feelings, and so on. There is a Pre-K 1 and a Pre-K 2, with Pre-K 2 going a little deeper into the topics touched on in Pre-K 1. If you'd like a little more in-depth review of the Pre-K levels, be sure to check out my review of Time4Learning from last year!

In 1st grade and beyond, they have the subjects that I mentioned earlier - Language Arts, Science, Math, and Social Studies. In the lower level grades, all of the subjects are taught through fun animations and activities, which really capture the student's attention.

At the upper levels, there are still fun animations and activities, but the lessons start transitioning to a more "mature" layout - more of a textbook-type reading, with one or two small activities. They also start requiring a few at-home supplies for science lessons, as well as written work. For this written work, there is a composition and editing program included on the student's main lesson page, on which they can type their assignments and then "hand them in" electronically. I did not have either one of my upper level students do this, so I can't go into how this process works.

The parental page was a little tricky for me to get - figuring out the icons and understanding the layout, but once I spent a little more time in it, I understood it more. So while not necessarily intuitive, it was insightful and helpful to be able to monitor the children's progress. Here is an example:

See more Time 4Learning screenshots here

Overall, my kiddos really enjoyed Time 4 Learning. My oldest, Isaac, who did the 5th grade level, expressed some disappointment in how much less "fun" many of his lessons were, compared to his brothers' (even the 4th grade level) and did not like the text book style writing. However, the opportunity to play on the playground was incentive enough for all!

I believe that Time 4 Learning is a very good tool! While our current homeschool style isn't one that requires a full-fledged online, independent curriculum, I can see that Time 4 Learning would well suit this need if it ever arose. Using it for supplement use is also an option, and could certainly be helpful during times that more independent learning is needed, such as when a new baby is born or other family transition. I felt that the assignments for the grade levels were appropriate - not too hard, but not too easy, either, and I appreciated how easy it was for me to control/limit the playground time, so that the kids weren't wrapped up in computer games all day.

Time 4 Learning is priced at $19.95/month for the first student, and $14.95/month for each additional student. It comes with a 14-day Money Back Guarantee, so don't be afraid to give it a try! You can also sign up for a free demo!

As always, be sure to see what other TOS Crew Members thought of Time 4 Learning by checking out the links at the TOS Crew Blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Review - Nature Nuts

2011-09-02T08:03:00.004-04:00

Nature Nuts is a trivia card game for 2-6 players, ages 8 and older, from the company Griddly Games. It can be used as a stand-alone trivia game, as well in conjunction with their Wise Alec Family Game.

The game is very compact - 4 sets of different colored cards, plus a die with several colors on it come in the box, which conveniently has the directions printed right on it. There's no extra packaging to mess with, so the box it comes in is also the box it is stored in, which makes it good for traveling and clean-up.

The rules of play are very easy - a player rolls the die, and either picks the colored card that the die indicates, or follows the specific instructions outlined for that color (for example, rolling a blue means the player can pick whatever color card they want). The cards have two questions on them - one is worth 3 points, the other is worth 7, and difficulty is proportionate to point value. The player picks which point value of question they would like to be asked, and if they get it correct, they get those points. Pretty simple! Players can agree to try to reach a certain amount of points, or play for a certain amount of time, to determine who wins.

Here's a brief video demonstration:

Three different trivia topics are covered - Plants, Animals, and Earth. There's a set of "Wise Alec" cards, as well, which bring a spin of silliness and energy to the game. The Wise Alec cards don't have trivia questions - instead, they have ways to earn bonus points, or even lose points! Some examples of the activity suggestions on the Wise Alec cards include doing a penguin impression, having a jumping competition, or doing various yoga positions. Environmental correctness is promoted through encouragement to recycle and have a compost pile, as well as other suggestions.

For the most part, we enjoyed Nature Nuts. The questions were challenging (it is definitely accurate when it suggests ages 8 and over, as some questions I didn't even know the answer to!), but part of the fun was learning new and interesting things when we got questions wrong. The kids especially enjoyed the Wise Alec cards, finding them funny and fun to do. The amount of time the game takes is really up to the players, so can fit into any time slot, making it easy for some quick, fun family time even on busy nights.

However, there were a few small drawbacks that I found. On a practical level, the cards are thin and rather flimsy, so they are easy bent or torn by overly rambunctious players or too much use. Also, while we believe in being good stewards of the earth God has given us, we are not very into the modern "green" movement, so sometimes the environmental emphasis seemed a little overboard. In the same way, we don't practice yoga, so those cards were not something we made use of.

Of course, as with any product, what are potential negatives for my family might be potential positives for another's, so please take into consideration your own viewpoints and convictions on those topics!

Nature Nuts, as well as other Griddly Games, can be found at various retailers, priced right around $15.

To see what other TOS Crew Members thought of Nature Nuts, be sure to head over to the TOS Crew blog!

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

Treasures of August

2011-09-01T06:34:00.025-04:00

August was a treasure trove of excellent blog posts! There's a lot listed here, I hope you can make the time to check out them all - you will be blessed!

Motherhood is Application at Desiring God - if you only read one of these links, read this one!

Three Under Three with a Newborn at Large Family Logistics

Are Moms Adequate for the Task of Raising Sons? at thatmom.com

25 Ways to Provoke Our Children to Anger at Counseling One Another - Ouch! I have failed this test many, many times! :(

Impacting Eternity at Making Home - beautiful!

As a Mom at Graceful Abandon

A + B ≠ C {a parenting equation} at Brooke McGlothlin

Trust Your Body? or Control Your Birth? at Birth Sense

Consolation at Thoughts from an Overthinker - SO good. Read it!

Gossip at The Gospel Coalition

From At the Well:

Don't Forget Your Purpose at Large Family Mothering

Guest Post: 7 Keys to a Successful Homeschool at Charlotte Mason Home Education

The Mission Field in My Yard at Lambs in His Arms

The Not Really Kindergarten Post at In the Heart of My Home - Yes, yes! Love this!

Do You Have Time to Home School? at Heavenly Homemakers

Is It Worth It? at The Better Mom

Dangerous at Books and Bairns

From Raising Arrows:

Fitting it In at A Family Revised

What My Pre-K Student Needs to Know at Christian Homeschoolers Taking a Stand

If Feeling Inadequate Was an Olympic Event... at True Woman

You Can Never Afford Them at The National Catholic Register

From Passionate Homemaking:

A "Jump Start" to a Joyful School Year at Crosswalk.com

God Will Never Give You More... at Femina

What Kids Really Need at God Made... Home Grown

Not a Kid Person? at Get Along Home

From Like Mother, Like Daughter:

Uncertainly Certain at (in)Courage

Preparing our Daughters for Real Life (Hazaq V'Amatz!) at Raising Homemakers

5 Highly Effective Habits Homemakers Have to Keep a Clean House at Joyful Mothering

a harvest in my lap at For Kith and Kingdom

Wordless Wednesday - Wonder and Discovery

2011-08-31T07:13:00.000-04:00

The stingray petting tank at the Tennessee Aquarium

Kregel Publications Review - Route 66

2011-08-22T06:26:00.004-04:00

Route 66 - A Crash Course in Navigating Life With the Bible, by Krish Kandiah and published by Kregel Publications is an 8-week (or 40-day) study on the main 8 genres of writing found within the Bible: narrative, law, psalm, prophecy, wisdom, gospel, epistle, and apocalyptic. Each week is broken down into 5 days, with a small Bible study and brief questions for each day. At the end of each week, there is a larger study with questions and activities that can be used in a group setting. Also included at the end of the book is an overview of an 8 week Bible-study that can be done independently of the main book, as well as a brief list of recommended resources, such as concordances and other study materials.

Route 66 is designed to help Bible readers delve further into their studies by explaining what the various genres in the Bible cover, how to read them, and (most importantly) how to apply them to daily life. It is perfectly arranged for either personal Bible study use, small group use, or even pastoral use as a sermon series.

The information presented in the book is good, solid "how to understand your Bible" information, as well as how what the Bible teaches applies to our modern-day living. While I already knew some of what Route 66 covered, I enjoyed learning new things, and I especially liked the daily Bible studies for further in-depth study and thoughts about application.

Each day's reading is about 1.5-2 pages long, followed by a recommended verse or chapter to read, and 3-5 accompanying questions to think further about the verse, tying into the topics discussed in that day's reading. I felt the length of each reading to be just right, and the questions thought-provoking and interesting, but without being overwhelming.

I found Route 66 to be enjoyable and easy to read, while also very informative. The writing is friendly and warm. The author uses many allegories and real-life examples to explain his points, which I appreciate and feel make the book more personal. There was only one thing that took me a little getting used to - that was a few references to UK culture that I didn't understand right away! ;-) Those did not detract from the actual informational content of the book, and actually fascinated me a bit, as I love to learn about other cultures.

Curious? Check out a sample of the book! You can also read the publisher's synopsis, and hear some 3-minute devotionals from the author himself, Krish Kandiah (gotta love that accent!).

Route 66 is reasonably priced at $13.99, and available from Kregel Publications.

Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a part of Kregel Publications Blog Tours. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.

TOS Crew Blog Hop!

2011-08-19T15:32:00.001-04:00

As I, and the rest of the members of the TOS Homeschool Crew, gear up for another year of fun reviews, we'd love for our readers to get a chance to know all of us! Stop by the linky to find some wonderful homeschool blogs and leave a few comments to say hello! It's a great way to read some really fun blogs that you might not have come across previously, and to discover who else will be providing reviews!

If you would like to check out previous reviews, be sure to check out all of my reviews from 2010-2011!

Also, please give a special visit to our Blog Hop Hosts, Our Homeschool Studio, a glimpse of our life, and Our Village is a Little Different!

Have fun hoppin'!

Wordless Wednesday - What Goes Up...

2011-08-17T06:15:00.003-04:00

An Apron Giveaway!

2011-08-15T06:48:00.002-04:00

I know I've said this before, but I love aprons! I love how useful they are, not to mention how domestic they make me feel. The kids love it when I put my apron on, because they know something fun (and usually messy!) is about to happen in the kitchen, and they run to get theirs! The only problem I have with my apron is... I only have one! How have I made it so many years with just one?!

Leah, a sweet young woman from my church is having a giveaway for a homemade apron to celebrate 2 years of blogging at The Narrow Path... this might be my big chance to double my apron supply! Or... for you to win it for yourself, and enjoy the apron love!

Want a sneak peak?

I *heart* this apron! I really love the colors and pattern - pretty and feminine without being impractical. I don't wear an apron as a fashion accessory, I actually use my apron. Which means it gets dirty! So whenever I daydream about getting another apron (and yes, I do daydream about that, and window shop, too!) I definitely bypass the lighter, easier to stain ones. This apron fits the bill perfectly!

Drop by Leah's blog and leave a comment over there to congratulate her on two years of blogging, and to enter her giveaway! It ends on the 23rd, so don't dally!

Friday Funny - Vegetarians?

2011-08-12T09:30:00.001-04:00

Did you know that the ancient Israelites were vegetarians? According to Judah, our 2-year old Bible Historian, it's true!

For the last memory verse of Sonlight Core D, the boys are memorizing Psalm 42. We recite it every morning, and also listen to it in song. Judah can sing the entire song (how amazing is music in the way of helping memorization?).

The actual version of verse 4 goes like this:

These things I remember,

as I pour out my soul within me

how I used to go along with the throng

and lead them in procession to the house of God

with a voice of joy and thanksgiving,

a multitude keeping festival.

Judah's version goes like this:

These things I remember,

as I pour out my soul within me

how I used to go along with the throng

and lead them in procession to the house of God

with a voice of joy and thanksgiving,

a multitude eating vegetables.

The way he says it in his sweet little 2-year old voice just gets me every time! I've tried desperately to get it on video, but as soon as the camera comes out, he plays shy. Trust me, it is beyond cute!

"Not" Back to School Blog Hop: School Room Week

2011-08-08T04:55:00.001-04:00

This week at Heart of the Matter Online's "Not Back to School Blog Hop", the highlight is school rooms. The way our house is set up (and probably the way in which I homeschool), we don't have one designated room for school - it happens all over the house! That means that our decor tends to reflect that - our main room accents include bookshelves, wipe-off boards and maps!

Here's a peek into our school rooms - oh, and I didn't do any special clean-up before taking pictures - I'm keeping it "real" here! ;-) Consider yourself warned!

This bookshelf is in our front living room. It holds 4 Sonlight Cores, preschool and math manipulatives, and other miscellaneous homeschool and non-homeschool books. Oh, and a BB gun and remote controlled helicopter. This is a houseful of boys, afterall!

The dining room, where the big kids do their independent work. The bookshelf holds art supplies and paper, and other "stuff". See my easy-to-put-away school boxes? Notice they are not actually put away? Yeah, I know.

The wipe-off board in the dining room, where we do our spelling.

The eat-in nook in the kitchen. Notice lovely aforementioned wipe-off board and map decor. We usually use this wipe-off board for memory verses and science. And keeping track of who loses Wii time due to door slamming.

Another view of the kitchen. The dresser to the left holds, well, junk. Actually, it has CDs, plus alot of artwork that needs to be sorted and corralled. The plastic drawers to the right hold wipe-off markers, coloring books, magazines for cutting up, and other random art supplies. The basked holds some kitchen rags, always good to have in quick reach for spills!

This is our back living room, which is open to the kitchen. Again, the map look.

The main couch, where I read to the littles and also do History and Read-Alouds with the big kids. This is across from the fireplace pictured above.

The same couch, different view. A bookshelf!

The love seat that holds the dog and some laundry. No, that's not it's actual purpose, but it does do that frequently. Our end table is decorated with legos, of course. Isn't everyone's?

A close up of the basket next to the main couch. It holds 6 weeks worth of Sonlight stuff, for easy access.

This basket is next to the love seat, and holds our P 4/5 books.

This is the computer desk. We had a bigger one and I thought downsizing would help me keep it cleaner. I was wrong!

Well, that was the grand tour! Thanks for stopping by and having a look at my ~~school rooms~~ home! Be sure to check out others at the Not Back to School Blog Hop!

Encouragement for the Mom of Littles

2011-08-07T08:35:00.000-04:00

In our house, among the children, we have "bigs" and we have "littles". Our "bigs" are the 8 and over set (currently only two fit into that category, Isaac, who is 10.5, and Ezra, who is 9) and the "littles" are, well, everyone else (that would be Joel (6.5), Nathan (4.5), Judah (2), and Rachel (6 months). While my big kids are actually still on the younger side (no drivers yet!), I have come to notice there is a definite difference in my life from when I had ALL littles to now having some big ones.

The "all littles" years are hard. Plain and simple! I remember being the only source of entertainment, the only one who could buckle carseats, hold hands in the parking lot (difficult when you've got more littles than hands!), push a grocery cart, make breakfast for lots of hungry mouths, change diapers, and so on. I remember trying to nurse a baby to sleep while keeping a toddler occupied, quiet and safe. I remember wondering how to get all the groceries into the house by myself with a baby that needs to nurse and a toddler that needs to go potty. It can be, and often is, exhausting.

The being said, I wanted to encourage any moms who are in the middle of the "all littles" phase - it gets easier! I promise!

The littles grow, and with good training and discipline, they become helpers! My oldest two can make snacks and meals, entertain the littles while I'm nursing the baby, hold the baby while I help another in the potty, load up the car and buckle car seats, unload groceries and put them away, and so on. I was recently left alone with just my four little guys for a few days, and, boy! did it bring back memories - and a greater appreciation for my big guys.

However, the are some words of caution I want to toss out, too. These are very important!

First, keep in mind that while you have just littles, you will need to be looking toward the future by teaching your littles to obey and to be helpers. They won't just magically become that way at the drop of a hat. Let the little ones come alongside you in everything you do. Yes, that will mean more work in the beginning. But the harvest will be worth it! Love them, encourage them, and train them to obey! They will be eager to start taking on more and more "big" responsibilities.

Second, don't keep your focus so much on the future that you sacrifice the now.

It can get easy to start dreaming of an "easier" time (I say easier in quotes because ALL phases of parenting has their challenges - they're just different challenges!). Planning and preparing for the future is one thing, but constantly putting your mind on "when they're ____, I'll be free!" will only breed discontent. Mamas, you will miss so, so much if this is your mindset!

Littles are only little for such a very short time. It might seem like eternity right now, but, really, the time flies. Enjoy your littles! Play with them, read with them, laugh with them. Pour the love of Jesus into them! Yes, they are hard work. But while the days can seem long, the years will fly by. The little years are such wonderful years of wonder and learning, and a prime time to be able to really pour your love into them, forging bonds that will help relationships to stay strong as they get older. That foundation of relationship is essential!

Cherish your children, mamas, at every age. They are precious gifts from the Lord!

My bigs when they were little!

Wordless Wednesday - Finished!

2011-08-03T12:10:00.000-04:00

A small reward for working so hard!

Hard to Believe

2011-08-02T08:31:00.001-04:00

A half of a year has gone by already!

From this....

To this...

She is such a treasure in our lives!

Treasures of July

2011-08-01T06:52:00.026-04:00

The Truth About Preschool at Simple Homeschool - this gets a hearty amen! of agreement from me!

To All the Mamas: It Gets Better at Small Town Simplicity - this is so, so true! I was really apprehensive about the newborn stage for my first few kiddos, but the next few have barely rocked the boat.

Why Homebirth? at in other words...

Relaxing in Our Homeschooling at Angela's Analysis - the video shared spoke right to my heart!

Tips for Having a Successful Homeschool at A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

to break the circle at To Love - Oh, have I been there. On the giving and receiving end - both equally as painful.

Happiness and Holiness at A Christian Worldview of Fiction

Another Reason to Homeschool: So You Can Treat Your Boys Like Boys and Your Girls Like Girls at Why Homeschool

Motherhood Is a Calling (and Where Your Children Rank) at Desiring God Blog - I LOVE this!!

The Hardest Part of All at Small Town Simplicity - This is an absolute jem - so, so true!

Time Saving Ideas at Doorposts - great tips!!

5 Dangerous Things You Should Let Your Kids Do at TED - I liked this video and the points he made. I'm happy to say that we've let (most of) the kids do all 5 things (actually, there's 6)!

From Encouraging Hearts at Home:

From Raising Arrows:

One on One at Preschoolers and Peace

laundry devotions (on approval seeking) at Biblical Homemaking - this is exactly what the Lord has been speaking into my heart as of late!! Convicting, and confirming!

What I Didn't Know: Reflections on Motherhood at Clean.

HOW to Read to Your Child - Valuing Interruptions at Real Child Development

5 Secrets to Being a Super Fun Mom at Motherhood Your Way

From Passionate Homemaking:

From Making Home:

From Getting Down with Jesus:

What I Learned About Motherhood from Watching Millionaire Matchmaker at Faith Barista

In Which Life Gets Messy at Divine Calling

Hands-On Projects from A-Z at Heart of the Matter Online

Listen to Them or Lose Them at True Woman

From Large Family Mothering:

How Do We Become Readers? at The Happy Housewife - great points! Some of my fondest memories are of my parents reading to me, and I'm sure that plays a part in how avid a reader I am today, as well as how much I love reading aloud to the kiddos!

You Are Not Managing an Inconvenience... at Homeschool Jungle

Children Will Remember at Backwoods Mom - very good!

Spiritual Maturity at ~Around Here...

Slim Down Sunday

2011-07-31T06:54:00.045-04:00

Heartfelt Homeschool holds a weekly "Slim-Down Sunday" that I thought I'd join in on since it's been a little while since I've updated my exercise progress!

Goals: Ultimately, my main goal is to be able to run 3-5 miles easily on a regular basis, and complete a 5K race. I also would like to lose 15-20 pounds of baby weight! However, since I am exclusively breastfeeding Rachel (meaning, her only source of nutrients!), I am not willing to restrict calories, so weightloss is not my main focus.

Progress: I am following a plan from a book called "Run Your Butt Off". I wanted something different from the normal Couch-5K program that I've done in the past, and I've really enjoyed this program! It's similar to C25K, but different enough to suit me. The book also has lots of great nutrition and running tips. I had a few set backs since starting, so I'm not as far along as I originally hoped, but I have stuck with it and am about to start Phase 6, which means I'll do 3 minutes of walking followed by 7 minutes of running, repeating that 3 times. Overall, that puts me running a little over 2 miles total! By mid-September, if all goes well, I should be ready to give a 5K a try!

I run 3 days a week, and on the in-between days do a strength training exercise video. I have several I got from the library, so I mix it up to keep from getting bored.

And for some exciting news, I've actually lost about 2 lbs from my starting weight! Considering I had actually gained a few pounds when I first started, that makes my total weight loss about 6 pounds in 2 months! Since that hasn't been my main focus, I was pleasantly surprised! Of course, when I see that just the small amount of running I've been doing burns almost 400 calories each run, I guess it makes a little sense.

Future Plans: Just to keep on keepin' on. I am trying to focus on making better food choices (bypassing the MnMs in the check-out line, fitting in more salads, and so on), and staying consistent in getting to bed on time so that I am able to get up early enough to fit in my workout and not be a zombie all day!

Is anyone else trying to get more fit and/or lose some weight? How's it going?

Moms of Boys Blog Hop!

2011-07-28T22:31:00.003-04:00

The MOB Society (short for "Moms of Boys") is having their first annual Boy Mom Blog Hop! Seeing that I probably qualify as a mom of boys, I thought I'd jump in for some fun!

If you are new to my blog or joining me from the Blog Hop, let me introduce myself and my kiddos! I am Erin, married to my wonderful husband Michael for almost 13 years. We are blessed with 5 boys, and were recently surprised with our first girl in February! (I say surprised because, after 5 boys... I just figured a girl wasn't possible! It was the shock of a lifetime! A joyous one, of course!) My blog is mostly about every day life, homeschooling, and my faith in Christ. I also do reviews for the TOS Homeschool Crew.

Well, that's enough about me - now to introduce the boys (and girl, I have to include her - she's the cutest one of the bunch! Although there are some close runners up!):

Isaac is 10.5, and such a helper! He is my second set of hands and eyes, and loves being the biggest brother. He's also getting way too big for my liking!

Ezra is going to be 9 years old soon, and he is our class clown! He loves to have fun and make others laugh, and he is also a wonderful encourager.

Joel is 6.5 and always in motion! He's a chatterer, too, so there is rarely a dull (or quiet) moment with him around. He has a tender, gentle heart, is very artistic, and is growing up so fast!

Next up is Nathan, who is 4.5. He's our quiet one, and is often found off by himself playing somewhere - who knew there could be an introvert in a big family? But once he comes out of his shell, he's got a fun, quirky sense of humor and it's fun to see what goes on inside that quiet self of his!

Judah is 2, and second star of the "cuteness" show - and he knows it! He's our resident musician (he takes after my husband) and always keeps us laughing. He's still in the cuddlebug phase, which makes this mama's heart happy! The first six months of his official status upgrade to "big brother" has gone wonderfully as he adores his little sister, and I am excited to see how close they grow over the years.

And while she doesn't fit into the "boy" category, here's the little miss of the household, Rachel - she's already stolen Daddy's heart and has the rest of us well wrapped around her finger, as well!

One of the topics suggested in the Blog Hop was a list of my boys' favorite books. I'll try to keep it brief, although we tend to read a LOT around here!

Isaac loves all sorts of books (he's a bookworm). He has read the Lord of the Rings trilogy a few times, he loves missionary stories (such as the Christian Heroes series) and stories about martyrs (such as the Jesus Freaks collections). His top favorite series, however, are The Underland Chronicles by Suzanne Collins (which I also really enjoyed!), and The Terrestria Chronicles by Ed Dunlop. There are many others, and he has a list over on his own blog, A Full Family, if you want to see more!

Ezra loves books about Indians. For school this year we studied early American History, which included reading several books detailing the lives of Native Americans, and he devoured them. He's not really into reading as much as his brother, so it really says a lot when he sits down to read a chapter book non-stop! He especially enjoyed Om-Kas-Toe and Naya Nuki. He also read and enjoyed the Underland Chronicles, as well.

Joel is a beginning independent reader, (for which I recommend Bob Books!) so he still enjoys being read-aloud to. His latest favorite stories are from Make Way for McCloskey - the number one choice being "The Doughnuts" from Homer Price. Another top-read-aloud among the little guys is anything and everything from the Harper Collins Treasury of Picture Book Classics - this collection I consider a must-have for little ones! Nathan's top pick is always something from A Family Treasury of Little Golden Books - he adores these stories. Judah enjoys listening in on anything - he doesn't have a favorite book right now!

Life with a bunch of boys is pretty wild! I only had a sister growing up, so I am learning quite a bit about snips and snails and puppy dog tails - and I love it! While I am glad to have a little bit of pink in the house now, I thank God every day for the blessing and privilege of raising up men for His glory! My prayer for them is that they grow to be men who follow hard after God, stand strong amidst adversity, and humbly serve and love those around them.

Thanks for stopping by! I'd love it if you'd leave a comment to say hello, and please be sure to drop in on the other moms participating in the MOB Blog Hop!

Wordless Wednesday - First Fruit

2011-07-27T07:12:00.000-04:00

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 10

2011-07-22T08:06:00.001-04:00

We have our first edible fruit! That's always so exciting to me! There are lots more on their way, too! It's been a rough summer - lots of high, high heat and little rain. Some days we've had to water the plants twice a day! But it looks as if the work is paying off!

And, we have a baby watermelon!!

A few weeks ago we went swimming at a lake. When I grew up, I lived in New Hampshire, where no one had a pool - if we wanted to go swimming, we either hiked through the woods to find a swimming hole, or swam at a few nearby lakes or quarries. It was so much fun, and most of my fondest teenage memories center around those times. Where we live now, though, most swimming is done in concrete pits with chlorine! So it was nice to leave suburbia with the kids and take them swimming in something natural!

Despite the concrete chlorine pits, I actually love where I live. We're in an older subdivision, so we have a decent-sized yard, and we're on a cul-de-sac, so it's nice and quiet. However, everything I need is soooo close. Dentist? 3 minutes. Pediatrician? 2 minutes. Any and all types of shopping? Within 15 minutes or so. And, we recently found out that there's a proposal to put a small grocery store on the main road at the top of our subdivision. We're going and voting YES! to that - I think it's awesome! I could actually *walk* to the store! How quaint! ;-)

I know lots of people dream of country life, and while I do believe in it's benefits, I think I love being a suburbanite!

I mentioned in my scheduling post that Michael is the one in charge of going over the big kids' work in the evenings. He uses those nifty assignment sheets I posted about a while ago (they're working out great, by the way). One night, after he had finished with the boys, I went to tidy up, and this is what I came across:

Click to see the writing around the border a little better!

Is there more proof needed that he's smitten? It reminded me of a love-struck kid! I love how much he loves her.

In order to try to carve out more time for eachother in our busy lives, Michael and I have agreed to have three nights a week with NO technology on once the kids go to bed. No computer, no iPhone, no movies... It has been

WONDERFUL!!!!

I am seriously loving it. We're able to catch up with eachother, spend some time in the Word and in prayer, play a game or two, and connect in... other ways... all things that are really beneficial to our relationship. They're like having mini-date nights right at home! It is one of the best things we've done for our relationship, and I am so glad we agreed to give it a try.

Judah continues to be my music-lover. One day I was putting him into his carseat, and he said "I love this song! It's my favorite!". I hadn't turned on the car yet, so I was confused about what he was talking about. I asked him "What song?" and he said "The bird's song!"

It melted my heart!

This upcoming week is a bittersweet one for us, as we say goodbye to some of our closest friends. God is taking them on a journey of which they can't see the outcome, but their faith through it all has been such an inspiration and a blessing! We're excited to see where He's leading them, but a little sad for ourselves, too, because we'll miss them so much! Good friends are such a gift!

Nathan and their girls

Wordless Wednesday - Just Because

2011-07-20T05:52:00.003-04:00

She just melts my heart!

Fitting It All In

2011-07-18T06:39:00.001-04:00

As promised in my previous post about our curriculum plans for 2011-2012, I'm going to share the routine we've had for a few months and that we'll keep as long as it keeps working! Flexibility is really the key, afterall!

I've tried and tried in the past to do a "by the clock" schedule, but that only makes for a stressed out mommy, which makes for stressed out and sad kids. So instead, we just have "hard stops" - specific things that happen at a specific time... the rest just flows in between those stops!

Our day starts at 7:30, which is when all the kids get up (actually, my day starts around 5:15 - I use those extra two hours to exercise, shower, and get into the Word). Everyone does their basic before-breakfast duties (beds made, teeth brushed, dogs taken care of, etc.) and we sit down for breakfast. We do our Memory Verse practice, prayer time, and Bible work during breakfast, which gets our day off on a good start!

After breakfast there are some chores to be done, and then we settle into "school". Depending on how breakfast went, it might be anywhere from 8:15 or even almost 9 by this time... like I said, we're flexible! To start school time, I always begin with my littles and their preschool work. While I'm sitting and reading stories to those guys, Isaac will begin the subjects he does on the computer, and Ezra starts his independent work.

After we've read some stories together, I get a few minutes of one-on-one time with each of my younger set. Joel will get his computer time, while Nate and I work on his Explode the Code book. Judah wanders between watching Joel on the computer and hanging out at the table with us, or playing with toys in the living room during this time. Then Nate gets computer time, while Joel and I do handwriting, math and a reading lesson together. The bigger boys are still working on their independent work while this is going on. And Judah is still wandering and playing, or starting to create chaos and havoc, depending on the kind of day he's having... (if I can see that it's a chaos and havoc kind of day, I do some tomato staking before things get out of control, and he becomes my sidekick until his brothers are free to play.)

Once I've finished up with the littles, the bigger boys have usually finished their independent work, so it's their turn for one-on-one work with me. I start with Isaac, while Ezra gets his turn at computer work. I do spelling and writing with Isaac, and then he is free for the rest of the morning until lunch time! Then Ezra does spelling, writing, and handwriting with me, and he is free, as well! By this time, it is usually somewhere between 10:30-11:30ish.

Of course, while all of the above was all happening, I also took a 15 minute (or so) break at some time to put Rachel down for a nap... she's not on a set schedule, so it just happens whenever she's needing it. The kids are all used to it by now, so it doesn't disrupt things too badly. She usually needs 2-3 naps a day and nurses every 2-3 hours, so I just fit those things in when they're needed and life continues on.

Lunch happens at 12:30, and then Nathan and Judah take a nap from 1-3. During this nap time is when the 3 oldest boys and I get down to more intense work - I'll use this time for History, Science, and Read-Alouds. I used to try to do these things when the little ones were awake, but it was just too difficult and I always felt like I was rushing through to just GET IT DONE! But now there's less stress, fidgeting, and interruption, and we're enjoying it much, much more. These three subjects can take anywhere from an hour to the full two hours, depending on how much conversation we have, or if there are any science experiments to be done.

3:15 is afternoon snack time, and 3:30 is when afternoon chores start. Usually during afternoon chores, I'll take 15 or so minutes to go over all the independent work the big boys did that morning, and correct it.

(My sweet husband has saved my sanity and blessed me with a lot more needed time by offering to be the one that goes over all their work with them, in the evenings after the little ones have gone to bed. Can I just share my relief at what a wonderful lifesaver this has been for me?! I love that man! He really enjoys being in touch with what they're learning, seeing their successes, and coaching them through their struggles - he just hates actually correcting the work. So I do that part, leaving careful notes about anything I think needs to be brought up.)

Once afternoon chores are done, they are free once again. Dinner is at 7, followed by family devotions, then bedtime for littles and Daddy time for the big kids. By 9 or 9:30, the big kids head off to bed, and Michael and I get an hour or two to ourselves... and then to bed I go! My goal is to get into bed by 10 or 10:30 every night. I hit that maybe once or twice a week! More realistically, it is 11 or later by the time my light goes out.

That's our day in a snapshot!

The biggest thing I've learned in the past 5 years of homeschooling is that I just have to be flexible. I know I've said that word a lot! But, it's true. And if anyone reading this knows me, you understand that flexibility does NOT come naturally to me. I'm a typical type-A, controlling person who likes structure and predictability! Almost to OCD proportions! But the Lord has really done a work on me and I've learned that I cannot possibly control a home with 7 other people in it. Manage it with wisdom, yes. Control, no! So if things don't go as "planned"... I just take a deep breath, and move on to the next thing. The world has not ended yet when things haven't gone as planned, so... I'm learning that it is OK!

Plus, (most importantly, I think), flexibility gives me the room to deal with the actual important things in life, such as comforting and encouraging a frustrated child, teaching brothers to love eachother, spending time enjoying a little one's artwork or a big one's silly antics, and disciplining with patience and consistency rather than frazzled frustration. And of course, snuggling and nursing my sweet baby girl!

The routine I just outlined above is probably the best one we've had in almost all of our homeschooling. I think the combination of the routine, having older children, using the curriculum we're using, plus just having a few years of homeschooling under my belt - all of these things have really melded together well to make our homeschooling days flow into "real life" and not a burden, but a joy! Not every day is picture-perfect, of course... but I find that, overall, the days flow with a reasonable smoothness that we all appreciate.

Not-Back-to-School Blog Hop - 2011-2012 Curriculum Plans!

2011-07-13T12:25:00.004-04:00

I'm joining in with Heart of the Matter Online's "Not-Back to School Blog Hop"! Week 1 is Curriculum Week, so here's a look at what our plans are for the 2011-2012 school year!

We've officially completed our 180 days of school, as required by our state. Since we prefer to school year-round, we're jumping right into another "year", starting next week. We still have odds and ends of our 2010-2011 curriculum to finish up, here are our plans for the upcoming year for each of the boys!

I've mentioned this a ton of times, but our main source for Bible, History, and Read-Alouds will be Sonlight's Core E. We also do Science as a family, and once we've finished up Apologia's Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology, we'll be switching gears and studying electricity, inventions, magnetism and magnification with Sonlight's Science E. This will be our first year away from Apologia and trying something new, so I'm excited to see how it goes!

Isaac is 10, and technically be starting 5th grade! (That's so weird to me, because I have very vivid memories of my 5th grade year, how is it possible that I have a child there now? Is this how old people feel all the time?)

Here are the subjects he'll be studying in addition to the above:

Math - Math-U-See's Epsilon, as well as ALEKS for supplementation, and drills using MathRider or Math Facts Now (his choice)
English - Rod & Staff's English 4 - I have found Rod & Staff's English to be rigorous enough that even though it's technically "behind" his grade, it's quite sufficient.
Writing - Writing Tales (finishing up Level 1, moving on to Level 2)
Spelling - All About Spelling, Level 2 and beyond - so far, he's been able to breeze through a couple lessons a week, but I'm sure as we progress, it will slow down some, so I'm just following his lead for now!
Bible - Core E includes an independent Bible Study, which he'll be using. If need be, we will supplement or switch out with studies from Quiet Times for Kids.
Spanish - Rosetta Stone, Level 1
Computer Programming - I purchased KidCoder from the Homeschool Buyer's Co-op for a great price, and Isaac is so excited to get started!

I won't be having him do any more formal handwriting, as his subjects include enough written work now that he gets plenty of practice through that.

Ezra will soon be 9 and is considered a 4th grader now!

He's actually doing almost all of the same things as Isaac, except the levels are different, of course! Here are the adjustments... everything else is exactly the same:

Math - Math-U-See Delta, along with ALEKS and drills with Math Facts Now
English - Rod & Staff English 3
Reading - along with Core E Readers, he'll also be doing Rod & Staff Reading 3. This is the last year of formal reading instruction with Rod & Staff for him
Handwriting - Handwriting Without Tears Cursive - this is doing wonders for him! He would previously struggle through handwriting in tears... this curriculum definitely lives up to it's name! He loves it and his handwriting is much improved!

Joel is 6.5 and is now officially on our Attendance Form!

I consider him going into 1st grade, so he's got a little bit more "real" schoolwork, but not much. As I've mentioned before, I prefer to keep things light in the younger years, so they have plenty of time for imaginative play and exploration. Here's what's on his plate this year:

Reading and Phonics - he's going to start Rod & Staff's Grade 1 Reading! He's also chugging along with Reading Kingdom online. He doesn't particularly care for it anymore, mostly because it is a challenge for him... which I consider a good thing! Our subscription for that is up in February, and I'm not sure if we'll do anymore online programs after that.
Math - Math-U-See Alpha
Handwriting - A Reason for Writing, Book A
We might venture into All About Spelling, Level 1... depending on time and need
He'll also be joining in with Nathan's Kindergarten plans (listed below!)

Nathan is 4.5 and sort of Pre-K-ish, I guess?

He spent last year sitting in on Joel's K activities, which has put him a little ahead of the game. While I don't push a lot of academic stuff at this age, I do love getting into their world through lots of reading aloud and fun activities. I have to admit, Preschool and Kindergarten are my favorite years to "teach"! Here's what my (very flexible) plans are for Nathan:

Sonlight P 3/4 - we did this at the beginning of last year with Joel and Nathan, but it's so good it's worth repeating! We all enjoyed it very much!
My Father's World Kindergarten - I won't be using the phonics portion, but the Bible and Science activities are lots of fun, and nice, light learning. Both Joel and Nathan will be joining together for this!
He'll be starting Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons! He's almost finished with the Get Ready, Get Set, Go! for the Code books, so he'll be ready very soon. He's also been doing Click N' Read Phonics (another great buy from the Homeschool Buyer's Co-op) online, and I am very pleased with this program for beginning readers. He's having a lot of success with it!

The great thing about homeschooling several children is that I didn't have to buy anything except the Code workbooks for Nathan, and his subscription to Click N' Read (which is a lifetime subscription, so it will be used for all following children!). If I were trying to afford everything I just listed above in one purchase, it would easily be close to my entire year's homeschool budget! But I've picked all of them up as we've gone along over the years, and he, being child number 4, is reaping the benefits (as is our bank account!)

Judah is 2,

and will be working on potty training! Honestly, I think potty training is my least favorite parental duty. But, once it's done, it's always good. So I have to bite the bullet and get it done! He's definitely ready now! He's also at the age where he's into everything (did I say everything? I mean everything!!), so we'll be spending our days keeping his little hands and mind busy. Lots of stories, drawing, music, blocks, outside time and attention!

Rachel will just be doing her thing - growing, learning, eating, sleeping, and getting lots and lots of love!

We're so excited about the upcoming year!

If you are curious to see how this all falls into place during a typical day, be sure to check out my post, "Fitting It All In" - where I explain! If you're interested in seeing how I organize everyone's assignments, I've got a post on my homemade homeschool assignment sheets, too!

Thanks for stopping by and have a great 2011-2012 homeschool year!

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 9

2011-07-08T06:12:00.011-04:00

I thought I'd start off with a little exercise update. It's been exactly a month this week since I started exercising regularly again. I've been alternating strength training days with running days, 5-6 times a week. It's going well - making the commitment and sticking with it has been really good for me for more than just the physical fitness aspect. I have not lost any weight, but I can definitely tell that my body shape is changing! That's really encouraging! And I am feeling *so* much healthier in general. It's incredible the difference a little activity can make!

The Lord has been working on me a lot lately. Which is always good, but can get a bit... uncomfortable, too! The big theme for me recently is my habit of being a "people-pleaser". I have realized a few things about being a people-pleaser - first, that the title is way too "nice" sounding. Really, what people-pleasing is all about are two things - pride, and the fear of man. Ouch! Both of those things are talked about pretty strongly in God's Word, and not in "nice" ways. Also, the habit of people-pleasing has caused me to chase after the wrong things, and even allow those closest to me to be put in situations that were not the best for them, all because I've wanted to "fit in" or not "rock the boat" at times. What the Lord has shown me has been very, very humbling - but in a good way. I want to be true to Him, and not worried about trying to jump through hoops to win other's approval, or worried what others will think of me. I've allowed those fears to control my life for far, far too long. My faith and worship must be in God alone, not my own ego! I'm so thankful for His faithfulness!

I thought I might mention a program I ran across - The Daily Home Planner from Organized Mom. I actually don't have any kind of Household Managment Binder or Homsechool Planner that I've found works for me... but this one just might be what I've been missing! For one, it is digital, rather than physical - not taking up space somewhere other than the computer's hard drive, or internet land somewhere. Second, I am in love with the meal planning feature. Really - that alone is enough to make me want to try it, even if I never use any other aspect of it. Long ago I asked my husband if there were some way to create an automated menu/grocery list system, and he said "Of course!" but neither of us actually knew how. Thankfully, others have thought of the same thing and are generous to offer that service to others! Of course, the other aspects are useful, to. And as opposed to print planners and management systems, I wouldn't feel as if I were wasting something if I didn't use it. Does that make sense? I hate staring at blank pages and not knowing what to do with them! Or having sections of a binder that are empty! I'm just weird like that! Anywho, I'm considering looking more into this Planner. Has anyone reading this tried it? I'd love to hear others' thoughts, whether you've tried it or not!

We have a miracle plant growing! Others who know more about gardening might not be so impressed by this, but we all are very excited about our special plant. (I am excited about the fact that anything grows under my care to begin with - that alone is a practical miracle!) A few weeks back, there was a storm that came through with some really strong wind. One of the branches of one of our tomato plants got partially snapped during that storm. I kept an eye on it, and it looked like the stalk was just going to scar over and be OK. But the weight of the branch was just too much, and it soon showed signs that the branch was dying. However, when I looked closely at the branch, I noticed these little nubs appearing along it:

The rest of the tomato plant didn't have these nubs, only the broken branch. Then it sort of crossed my mind that those nubs looked like little baby roots trying to grow! It was as if the dying branch was trying to get it's own water, since it was effectively separated from the main stalk and root source. So I had an idea - I figured, why not just cut the branch off, and replant it in a different pot? It's going to die anyway, but maybe, just maybe... it will grow it's own roots and live!? So I took the plunge and cut the branch and replanted it in a different pot. The first week and a half the poor branch was definitely looking dead. It's leaves were wilted and withered, and it just looked really pathetic. But then... one day I noticed that it didn't look so wilted anymore! After a few more days, I was certain - the branch was going to live!

And the best, most exciting part? Not only is it alive.. but...

It's growing fruit!!! Does that make you think of anything? It's such a cool little example of what God does for us - takes us, when we are dead in our sins, gives us new life... and then bears fruit in that newly restored life! So awesome!

The boys are doing fun new Bible Study, from Quiet Times for Kids. It's a 6-week study on the Armor of God, and - get this - it incorporates Legos! How cool is that? Each week they are to make a diorama using legos (and other props) to depict a verse they liked from that week's study. And, there's a contest, too! The boys are so excited about it! And let me just say, the Bible Study is not a "fill-in-the-blank" simple little study. It's a very in-depth study, and it asks great questions for the kids to be thinking about how to apply the verses they're reading to their own lives. I've been impressed by how thought-provoking the questions are, and the discussions the study has generated!

I am needing some opinions - care to share yours with me? Here's the deal - the kids range in age from 10.5 on down to 5 months. We have three different sized blocks in the house - Mega Blocks, Duplo Blocks, and (of course) Legos. The littler ones of my crew spend most of the time with the Duplos, and the rest of the crew loves their Legos. When I only had littles, the Mega Blocks were all the rage! But as we've transitioned to Legos... the Mega Blocks have fallen to the wayside. So I'm wondering if I should just find a new home for the massive amount of Mega Blocks we have. Or, should I hold on to them, just in case? Can babies play with Duplo blocks as easily as Mega Blocks? Does the Mega Blocks size matter in, like, child development and hand coordination or anything? I guess what I'm asking is - is there any good reason to keep the Mega Blocks around for Rachel and any other possible littles we might be blessed with? Thoughts anyone?

Earlier this week, I had a slight dilemma. I had to nurse Rachel and I knew she was needing a nap. Unfortunately, my three oldest children, who usually help keep law and order while I'm nursing Rachel to sleep in her room, were outside playing. Only the two youngest were in the house. The two youngest also happen to be the two loudest and two neediest of the bunch (it comes with the "youngest" title). I told them before going into her room "Guys, I'm going to put Rachel to bed, I need you to be good and quiet while I'm in there!" but had little hopes of that actually coming to pass. However, as the minutes went by and Rachel successfully fell asleep... there was peace and quiet. Which made me nervous! However, when I came out of her room, this is what I came upon, and just had to capture it!

To add to the miracle, there were no pencil marks outside of the paper! ;-D I love when I catch my boys being so "brotherly"!

I don't know if this week's Quick Takes actually qualify as being "quick" - apparently I had more to say than I first expected! Thanks for taking the time to come by and stay a while! Have a wonderfully blessed weekend!

Wordfilled Wednesday

2011-07-06T06:17:00.001-04:00

One of the things I love most about the Bible is how alive it is! I can read a verse any number of times and it sort of just goes in one ear and out the other... and then, suddenly, I read it again a new day, and it is as if it is a brand new verse. This happened to me yesterday, as I was reading in Ephesians. I was in Chapter 2, which starts out with some very sad and humbling proclamations:

"And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest." (Ephesians 2:1-3)

I stopped and gave a lot of thought to this, how my life used to be, how I used to think and act and believe... and I couldn't deny the truth in these verses! It was very sobering to sit and ponder over. But then! The book isn't over yet...!

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together in Christ (!!!) (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:4-7, exclamation points mine!)

To me, these verses are a crescendo of excitement! The suspense begins with the "But God..." and the anticipation builds, culminating in amazement, awe, humility and thankfulness as His mercies and grace are revealed! What a glorious, wonderful God He is, what a gift He has given us through His son Jesus!

To be dead - dead! Lost in sin, sons of wrath! And for God to love us... even when we were dead!!!, to bring us to life again, through the very death and resurrection of His own son! It is nothing but amazing. Nothing but worship-inspiring. Nothing but everything that is ever important to all of existence.

5 Months!

2011-07-04T06:17:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, Rachel celebrated being 5 months old!

Don't you love her "R" shirt? Courtesy of our sweet friend, Callie!

Rachel wins the award for being, by far, the easiest baby on the planet. OK, perhaps not on the planet, but definitely of the Robinson household. She is very easy going and content, and a great sleeper! She's a bit on the independent side and loves to spend her time on the floor while her brothers play next to her. She's quite healthy - close to 16 pounds and covered with rolls. Here's proof!

Those are definitely some cankles! Good thing they're cute on babies!

She's learned very quickly how to roll in whatever direction to get what she wants (which, of course, goes straight into her mouth!), and is starting to learn how to sit up. She's got the strength to, it's the balance she's got to perfect - I know it will happen soon! She loves to blow raspberries and laughs like crazy when tickled. Her brothers and daddy dote on her (OK, I admit, I do, too! How could I not?!) and she is certainly not lacking in love. What a blessing!

One thing I love to do as each child grows is to figure out if they look like any of their siblings at the same age... and here's what I came across:

Miss Rachel

Nate the Great!

Uncanny, isn't it? I'm really excited to see what she'll look like as she grows! But all this growing really is happening way too fast for me. I think partially because she's such an easy baby, and partially because I have 5 others clamoring for my attention, her babyhood is really going by in a flash! It's a little bittersweet. With each child I become increasingly aware of how fast they grow and how truly short my time is with each of them. I am so thankful for each of these wonderful blessings God has entrusted me with!

Treasures of June

2011-07-02T07:13:00.001-04:00

From Books and Bairns:

Learn to Love the Child you Don't Like at The Homeschool Post

The Pitfall of Perfectionism at The Gospel Coalition

Summer Activity Jars and Grab Bags {Free Printables} at The Crafting Chicks

From Raising Homemakers:

Moms, Do You Take Your Own Advice? at Bring Birth Home

What You Don't Know About Your Cervix can Ruin Your Birth at Birthologie

I Can't Do This Homeschooling Life at Preschoolers and Peace

Not So Quiet Time for Moms at Confessions of a Homeschooler

Words of Wisdom (?) Whether Running or Breastfeeding at Dr. Jen 4 Kids

From Heart of the Matter Online:

Raising Sons: Shaping Their Masculine Identity at The Male Domain

From At the Well:

From Raising Arrows:

6 Points I Would Have to Believe Before Resuming Vaccinations at Life on the Franco Farm

Why My Husband Deserves Father's Day at Amber Dusick

Dear Mr. Atheist, Please Know That All Christian Homeschoolers aren't Alike at thatmom.com

Wifey Wednesday - In Need of Conversation at ...to Love, Honor, and Vacuum

Motherhood as a Mission Field at Desiring God

The Word, Godly Counsel and Personal Discernment at Making Home

Make Your Own Wrap Carrier at Barefoot Buttercup

Perfect Mothers vs. Balanced Mothers at Inspired to Action (I believe this made it to Treasures when it was originally posted, but it's worth repeating!)

From The Feminist Breeder:

From God Made... Home Grown:

How to Spiritually Survive Morning Sickness in Pregnancy at The Modest Mom

Tips to Planning Your Homeschool Day at The Happy Housewife

Life with Littles at Life in a Shoe

But the Part About You and Me is Still Beautiful at Pursuing Titus 2

A Full Heart

Treasures of January

How My Mind was Changed (The Vaccination Debate)

Homeschooling with Morning Sickness

Wordless Wednesday - Seven! (of a Different Sort)

Wordless Wednesday - Seven!

Milestone!

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 14

Top Ten Posts of 2011

Treasures of November and December

From Our Family to Yours...

Wordless Wednesday - Us

TOS Crew Review - World's Greatest Stories

A Song for Saturday

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 13

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday - First Album!

TOS Crew Review - Pitsco Medieval Machines

Wordless Wednesday - The Love of Grandparents

Kregel Publications Review - The Three Trees: A Traditional Folk Tale

TOS Crew Review - Keyboard Town PALS

TOS Crew Review - Ooka Island

Awesome Sale!

TOS Crew Review - Bower Books - The Person I Marry

Treasures of October

TOS Crew Review - Memoria Press First Start Reading and Classical Phonics

TOS Crew Review - Say Anything

Wordless Wednesday - Peas

Seven Quick Takes - Volume 12

TOS Crew Review - Educating the WholeHearted Child

TOS Crew Review - Visual Latin

Wordless Wednesday - Homeschooling Boys

The Winner Is....

Last Day to Enter!

Treasures of September

Wordless Wednesday - On the Go

My Memories Review and a Giveaway!

Timberdoodle Review - Purpllinker

Wordless Wednesday - Venerunt, Vindirunt, Vicerunt

TOS Crew Review - Before Five in a Row

TOS Crew Review - Big IQ Kids

All You Ever Wanted to Know (and Probably More) About Disc Golf

Seven Quick Takes Friday - Volume 11

TOS Crew Review - Time 4 Learning

TOS Crew Review - Nature Nuts

Treasures of August

Wordless Wednesday - Wonder and Discovery

Kregel Publications Review - Route 66

TOS Crew Blog Hop!

Wordless Wednesday - What Goes Up...

An Apron Giveaway!

Friday Funny - Vegetarians?

"Not" Back to School Blog Hop: School Room Week

Encouragement for the Mom of Littles

Wordless Wednesday - Finished!

Hard to Believe

Treasures of July

Slim Down Sunday

Moms of Boys Blog Hop!

Wordless Wednesday - First Fruit

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 10

Wordless Wednesday - Just Because

Fitting It All In

Not-Back-to-School Blog Hop - 2011-2012 Curriculum Plans!

7 Quick Takes Friday - Volume 9

Wordfilled Wednesday

5 Months!

Treasures of June