tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-260359972024-03-14T05:09:32.537-04:00Learning AdventuresLearning should be a joy and full of excitement. It is life's greatest adventure; it is an illustrated excursion into the minds of the noble and the learned.
~Taylor CaldwellUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger313125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-53518164268878994782014-04-08T12:52:00.000-04:002014-04-08T12:52:07.017-04:00Life in our House I find it hard to believe that we have been on this homeschooling journey for almost 10 years. I cannot believe it! We have definitely been on a roller coaster in the past years. We have shed many tears, fears, hugs and lots of love. I want to be real..it has been hard. There have been times when I thought I had hurt my kids for homeschooling them. Times when I wanted to put them on the bus at 6:45 am and go back to bed. Even through the lows..I would not trade it for the world.<br />
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When I first started this blog, my kids were toddlers. Now my kids are teens. I have 3 kids with 3 distinct learning styles. I have 3 young adults who are trying to find their way in the world. My role has changed from caregiver to mentor. I am no longer needed to answer every little question. They don't always ask me for my help or opinion. I now work outside of the house 3-4 nights a week during the school year. During the summer I am home even less. <br />
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We will be changing things up once again in the 2014-2015 school year. I will have two, yes two, high school kids and one in junior high school. We are planning to continue our homeschooling journey. We just have to make a few more adjustments. We will most likely step away from some outside commitments and do more as a family. They are only going to be home for a short time. I want to really enjoy these teen years. <br /><br />So please stay with us while we take our Learning Adventures to a new chapter.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-31215209929190237692014-01-25T22:33:00.000-05:002014-01-25T22:33:54.978-05:00Be a RockIt started with a phone call.<br />
This was the call that I feared.<br />
I'm on my way...no wait.<br />
Let's see what they say.<br />
Time passed so slowly that day.<br />
<br />
There was another call, another one I didn't want to hear.<br />
They say that all bad words have four letters, they were wrong.<br />
Later the night came a familiar right tone.<br />
One I <strike>wanted</strike> needed to hear more than anything.<br />
Don't worry about me.<br />
I'm good...be strong.<br />
Be a rock.<br />
<br />
Another day, a flurry of calls.<br />
When can I leave, not yet.<br />
Then the ring tone I have come to love...<br />
Don't worry about me.<br />
I'm good....be strong.<br />
They need you.<br />
Be a rock.<br />
<br />
The time I made the phone call...<br />
I love you!<br />
Be strong.<br />
<br />
I see the tears,<br />
I see the love.<br />
I see the fear.<br />
I see the world falling apart.<br />
<br />
Then I see with my own eyes.<br />
My original little man.<br />
I see him running around.<br />
I see him in the backseat with all his friends.<br />
I see him out on the field.<br />
<br />
Memories fill my head of the years in the past.<br />
Football games,<br />
Basketball games,<br />
movie marathons,<br />
kayaking with my daughter.<br />
My two worlds colliding....<br />
My world crumbling.<br />
<br />
Family and friends start to come by.<br />
We shared memories,<br />
We shared tears.<br />
We laughed until we cried.<br />
<br />
How can I stay strong?<br />
I feel like my life is crumbling around me.<br />
I can't do this I say.<br />
Yes you can says MY rock.<br />
He needs you. I'm here for you.<br />
<br />
I <strike>didn't</strike> couldn't finish this poem...I didn't want to think beyond that time. I didn't want to feel the separation, I didn't want to think about the pain anymore, the helplessness that I felt. That all changed on Thanksgiving.... <br />
<br />
Today I heard the most magical sound in the world.... <br />
For the first time in 40 something days,<br />
I heard his voice..<br />
It made my day..<br />
What did he say?<br />
What's Up??<br />
<br />
****update****<br />
<br />
He is kicking some tail! He is an inspiration. He is now MY rock. To say that I am proud of how far he has come would be an understatement. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-47441670014341031252013-11-25T08:00:00.000-05:002013-11-25T08:00:07.222-05:00A Month of Gratitude Slacker...I have been slacking during my month of gratitude...I'm sorry. I just haven't been able to remember to do it everyday. I do think about it all the time. So here we go...<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Long Shots & Hail Marys</li>
<li>My Husband. He has given more in the past 7 weeks than I ever thought possible. He has given me strength when I needed it the most. He encouraged me NOT to give up. </li>
<li>My kids...they have shown me joy in the past 7 weeks. They have made me laugh when I wanted to cry. </li>
<li>My parents, they have taught me a lot this last month. You really are never too old to learn something from your parents. </li>
<li>My brothers. Even though they are grown men, they are my little boys. My heart is divided in 4...my hubby, my kids, my brothers and my sisters. They truly are my life. </li>
<li>My cousins. I don't know if they would ever read this, but that is ok. They made me laugh when I didn't think I could. </li>
<li>A new friendship that has developed...she was there in a heartbeat. I called and could barely speak. She knew that I needed someone. She is showing me ways to grow that I didn't realize. Thank you. </li>
<li>My homeschool family. The members of my homeschool co-op. They have shown me understanding and strength this past semester. I couldn't of made it without your love and support. </li>
<li>I am so thankful that I have job. A job that offers me the flexibility to still homeschool my children and fly home to be with my family when they need me. </li>
<li>My daughter, yes I mentioned her earlier. They each deserve their own. She is my girly girl. She makes sure that I don't take life too seriously. </li>
<li>My oldest, who makes that best soft pretzels in the world! I love him for much more than that, but right now I am craving one of those pretzels. LOL.</li>
<li>My youngest son. He is my little man who is over 6 inches taller than me! </li>
<li>My sisters..who have become beautiful young women. </li>
<li>DVR...it keeps the peace in my house. </li>
<li>Music....I am thankful for musi. Music can trasport you anywhere. You could be 10 or you could be in the islands listening to the steel drums. Music soothes my soul. </li>
<li>The Ocean...my home away from home. My safe place. This is where I go when I am stressed. When I need to get my life in perspective, because let's be honest...the big stuff is really the small stuff and the small stuff...well that is what you will remember. </li>
<li>My in-laws. They are who I inspire to be like. They seem to know what I need before I do. </li>
<li>A Helping Hand...even when they don't know that I need it. Thank you coach!</li>
<li>My house, while we are crammed in here...I am thankful that we have a roof over our heads, food in the fridge. </li>
<li>My dog..silly? I don't think so. She listens when I talk and she doesn't talk back. :)</li>
<li>My snakes...yes I said snakes. They actually keep my blood pressure down. Why you ask? You can't get tensed or stressed out while holding them. It is not good for them. </li>
<li>My computer, without it this wouldn't be possible. I also would make the leap into homeschooling. </li>
<li>Pinterest! Who else is obsessed with that site! I am thankful that it helps me stay creative & organized!!</li>
<li>Old Friends...I love reconnecting with some of them. </li>
<li>That you have read this far! Thanks :) </li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-50881660368325170552013-11-24T22:40:00.000-05:002013-11-24T22:40:12.042-05:00It Started With A Conversation...A very special 6 year old, his mom & I had the most wonderful and enlightening conversation. We spoke of the Golden Rule. We talked about how our attitudes towards others gets reflected back onto ourselves. If you treat your friends rudely, they will treat you the same way. When we asked if that was OK, he said no. He told us that we should treat others much nicer - kinder because that's how WE want to be treated.<br />
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SMART KIDDO!<br />
<br />
His mom and I carried the conversation on. I spoke of Grace. How I was trying to live more Gracefully. We spoke about how we were NOT perfect and that was OK. We spoke about what the word Grace meant to each of us. I honestly cannot remember what was said-just the emotions. I felt compassion-peace-love-gentleness. I remember feeling that it was OK to be a work in progress.<br />
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How does one define Grace? I truly believe that it is up to the individual. To me Grace means kindness, gentle hearted, compassionate, strong elegance, and respectful. Grace does not mean perfection - NO ONE can achieve that. Grace means accepting your imperfections. It means trying to be the best you can be in spite of your flaws. To realize that you are flawed and to go with your strengths. It means when you fail, don't go licking your wounds...learn from it. It means getting back up and doing better...again and again.<br />
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Someone walking with Grace shows compassion and understanding when it is needed the most. Grace is knowing when to take a step back and when to lead.<br />
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Grace is being calm in the middle of a storm. We really don't know how strong we are until our world is thrown into utter chaos...believe me, I am learning this now.<br />
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I strive to walk with Grace. I am going to make mistakes and that is OK.<br />
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I strive to act with Grace, speak with Grace and live with Grace<br />
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To my friends, I ask for patience, understanding and guidance as I continue my journey.<br />
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To that little boy, I thank you for making my life better for having known you. :) <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-71710743196179349712013-11-04T19:56:00.002-05:002013-11-04T20:22:49.033-05:00See The Light - Peaceful Seas ReviewArt is my all time favorite subject. I love every part of creating art. When I had the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/art-projects/" target="_blank">See The Light Art Project</a>, I was thrilled. I had seen these, even drooled over them.<br />
<br />
I received the <a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-peaceful-seas.html" target="_blank">Peaceful Seas DVD</a>. We were excited to do this project. There are 4 videos, each one is less than 30 minutes long. They are easy to follow and beautifully done. You then work on what she demonstrated in the video.<br />
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<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS includes an in-depth Art History focus on the style of Winslow
Homer, explores related Art Elements and Art Principles, and uses a
variety of media. Biblical integration is woven into every single
lesson!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS is geared for ages 10 +. The 4 lesson DVD runs approximately 2
hours, but the student should allow approximately 3 to 4 hours to
complete this fabulous work of art!</span><br />
- See more at: http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-peaceful-seas.html#sthash.nZZVBh0L.dpuf<br />
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS includes an in-depth Art History focus on the style of Winslow
Homer, explores related Art Elements and Art Principles, and uses a
variety of media. Biblical integration is woven into every single
lesson!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS is geared for ages 10 +. The 4 lesson DVD runs approximately 2
hours, but the student should allow approximately 3 to 4 hours to
complete this fabulous work of art!</span><br />
- See more at: http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-peaceful-seas.html#sthash.nZZVBh0L.dpuf</div>
</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
<h1>
<span style="color: navy; font-size: large;"><b>Watch and Produce Your Own Masterpiece<br />in 4 Step-By-Step Lessons with Master Artist Pat Knepley!</b></span></h1>
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS is the eigth in a series of ART PROJECTS that advance skills and
learning as students complete wonderful works of art in the style of a
variety of famous artists.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS includes an in-depth Art History focus on the style of Winslow
Homer, explores related Art Elements and Art Principles, and uses a
variety of media. Biblical integration is woven into every single
lesson!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'book antiqua', palatino; font-size: small;">PEACEFUL
SEAS is geared for ages 10 +. The 4 lesson DVD runs approximately 2
hours, but the student should allow approximately 3 to 4 hours to
complete this fabulous work of art!</span><br />
- See more at: http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-peaceful-seas.html#sthash.nZZVBh0L.dpuf</div>
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Reviews from my crew:<br />
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Dragon: I enjoyed the videos. I wish that she would use the correct terms for somethings. She would call it one thing and then change it to another. I really like learning about Winslow Homer. Her instructions were easy to follow and remember for when you were doing the project later. <br />
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<a href="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/79711C13-8B52-478C-8EDD-320117BF04A0-456-00000105485792CD_zpsea116b55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/79711C13-8B52-478C-8EDD-320117BF04A0-456-00000105485792CD_zpsea116b55.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Tracker: I didn't care for her tone voice. I didn't like the videos, I would rather just do the project and learn as I go.<br />
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<a href="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/05875889-f905-46a5-938a-e0e584127e1c_zpsb53598ce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/05875889-f905-46a5-938a-e0e584127e1c_zpsb53598ce.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Squirrel: The videos are OK. The project were just right. They were not too easy, but not too difficult.<br />
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<a href="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/868B509D-A22F-42F9-95B3-69ACA0CCEC6D-456-000001052771D81C_zps37efb832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/868B509D-A22F-42F9-95B3-69ACA0CCEC6D-456-000001052771D81C_zps37efb832.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mom: I thoroughly enjoyed the videos. I found her instructions perfect for me. I learned something new. I appreciated the fact that I could skip over the scripture part of the videos. I would recommend this video to my friends. I am actually planning on purchasing the rest of the series to fulfill necessary to complete a high school credit. <br />
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<a href="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/4ecea702-b4c9-45f1-98a4-9f9366c1528a_zpsd84eed9d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b251/LearningAdventures/4ecea702-b4c9-45f1-98a4-9f9366c1528a_zpsd84eed9d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Basics:<br />
<a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/" target="_blank">See The Light Christian Homeschool Art Class</a><br />
<a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-peaceful-seas.html" target="_blank">Peaceful Seas DVD</a> $14.99<br />
<a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/store/art-projects/art-projects-boxed-set.html" target="_blank">ENTIRE Art Projects boxed set</a>: $99<br />
<br />
You can also purchase <a href="http://www.seethelightshine.com/art-class/" target="_blank">Art Class</a> to learn everything from basic skills to advanced techniques. <br />
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To read the rest of the teams reviews, click <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/see-the-light/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6Akm9VnYaLFUg1u_nY_57aXdajtCIq1nLK77fRNbHHY4K_NO3d6vtCBseQb6a1ylHIVwnv49OEw5L_c8tcVA6gkdfGCRDIcztYhcnIXRoEdb-ewqoyZ0P2Go2lKOPZeqJr-o/s1600/377724_537070576324466_215883270_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6Akm9VnYaLFUg1u_nY_57aXdajtCIq1nLK77fRNbHHY4K_NO3d6vtCBseQb6a1ylHIVwnv49OEw5L_c8tcVA6gkdfGCRDIcztYhcnIXRoEdb-ewqoyZ0P2Go2lKOPZeqJr-o/s320/377724_537070576324466_215883270_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-34661854311759013912013-11-02T20:04:00.000-04:002013-11-02T20:04:01.312-04:00Day 1: Long Shots & Hail MarysHere it is November and I am so thankful that it is here. October was a month that I never want to experience again.<br />
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We went from looking forward to the holidays to day by day. Then hour by hour.<br />
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We were told there was a chance, a small chance, a Hail Mary.....a long shot. We took it.<br />
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We waited. We made phone calls. We prayed. It WORKED. It is still working today.<br />
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We are now looking forward, counting our blessings...even the minute ones. <br />
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I am FOREVER grateful for Long Shots & Hail Marys. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-29765834088514925562013-09-05T13:47:00.000-04:002013-09-05T13:47:26.752-04:00Homeschool Programming Review Teen CoderC# SeriesI don't know about you, but the thought of teaching my child any computer skills terrifies me. I can teach them the basics, but programming? That is a foreign language to me. That is why I was so excited to get the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_cs_series.php" target="_blank">TeenCoder C# Series</a> from <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/index.php" target="_blank">Homeschool Programming</a>.<br />
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<img alt="TeenCoder Series" src="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/images/teen_lyingside.jpg" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/index.php" target="_blank">Homeschool Programming</a> has two different programs, <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/overview/product_overview.php" target="_blank">KidCoder and TeenCoder</a>. Homeschooling Programming Inc is the brainchild of two homeschooling parents who have degrees in Computer Science and over 17 years experience in the software industry. Homeschool Programming, fills the void for an all in one computer science program for children.<br />
The <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_cs_series.php" target="_blank">TeenCoder C# Series</a> has 2 courses, <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_windows.php" target="_blank">Windows Programming</a> and <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_games.php" target="_blank">Game Programming</a>. Each course should take a semester complete, depending on the pace of the child. They are able to complete this at their own pace. The TeenCoder C# Computer Programming Series <b>can be used to fulfill your high school students requirement for computer class</b>.<br />
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Dragon started the <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_windows.php" target="_blank">Windows Programming Course</a> and loved it.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="265" src="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/images/TC-WP3_MED.png" width="211" /></div>
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<br />
<br />
I asked my 15yr old, Dragon to write this review: <br />
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I like it. My overall opinion is it is fun and easy to do. I liked the fact that it was easy to understand, I didn't have to ask for help. Each lesson was well planned and fun to complete. One time I made the computer beep and mom thought I broke it. That was a good laugh! My favorite lesson was Lesson 6, user input.<br />
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I would recommend this program to all of my friends. I cannot wait to start the Game Programming Semester!<br />
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The Good:<br />
<br />
~Student paced independent program. <br />
~Easy to understand<br />
~Great customer service<br />
~I will be recommending this program to all of our homeschooling friends.<br />
~I do recommend printing out the book or getting the printed version. <br />
<br />
The Bad:<br />
<br />
~I had a very hard time with Windows 8. This has NOTHING to do with the program, but Windows 8 itself. We just installed it on an older laptop and it was Great..Easy to install. I honestly wanted to throw my computer out the window. They tried to help us, but it was getting frustrating on my end. It had NOTHING to do with them...it was all me.<br />
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Product Information:<br />
<br />
TeenCoder C# Year Pack: $130<br />
TeenCoder C# Year Pack with Videos: $155<br />
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For more information you can visit them<a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/index.php" target="_blank"> here</a>.<br />
Want to try before you buy? Check out their amazing <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/sample_pages.php" target="_blank">samples page</a>. <br />
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If you would like to see what others members of Mosaic Reviews thought of Homeschool Programming you can go<a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/homeschool-programming/" target="_blank"> here</a> to check them out. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-32813143617748769772013-06-27T00:35:00.000-04:002013-06-27T00:35:02.252-04:00Mosaic Review... Classical Historian<span style="font-size: large;">I was lucky to be chosen to review two items from The Classical Historian, Ancient History Go Fish and Take a Stand! Modern American History. When I first opened the package my kids all begged to play Go Fish! This was a great way to introduced Ancient History to my children. Squirrel loved the game. We played it two different ways, we played Go Fish first and then we quizzed Dragon on all the cards. He knew every single ones. We even talked Fire Rat into playing. We must of played the game everyday for 2 weeks straight. This has been the spring board for many discussions and searches on the computer. I highly recommend this game to everyone I know! This is a game that can be played and loved by all ages. One of my favorite parts of the game are the cards themselves! They are much more than a playing card. Each card has hints (this is what we used to quiz Dragon), the era the card is from and lists the other 3 cards needed to make a set. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="Picture" height="230" src="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/uploads/4/3/7/4/4374494/469747_orig.jpg" style="max-width: 1100px; width: 100%;" width="320" /> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/modern-american-history.html" target="_blank">Take A Stand! Modern American History</a> is a one year high school class. The complete curriculum comes with the following items: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. 32 Week Detailed Guide for the Parent/Teacher with Take a Stand! Key - 62 Pages<br /><span> </span>2. Take a Stand! Modern American History Student's Book - 89 Pages<br />3. Teaching the Socratic Discussion DVD Curriculum - 3 DVDs, 77 Pages<br /><span></span>4. <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/patriots-history-to-the-united-states.html" target="_blank"><em> A Patriot's History to the United States</em></a>, Textbook</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><span></span>5</span><span style="color: black;">. <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/the-patriots-history-reader.html" target="_blank">The Patriot's History Reader,</a> a Primary Source Book</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/32-week-modern-american-history.html" target="_blank">The 32 Week Guid</a>e<span style="color: #00cccc;"> <span style="color: black;">has walks you through the entire curriculum. The lessons are well planned and very east to follow. I do not know much about Modern American History and I found this guide to be informative and it made me want to learn right along side my child. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/take-a-stand-modern-american-history-students-edition.html" target="_blank">Take a Stand! Modern American History Student's Book </a>is broken down into 2 different sections, Part On: Social Studies Curriculum and Part Two: Social Studies Literacy Curriculum. The firs part takes your child from Immigrations to Religion to The New Deal and Technology as a Cause for Change. Each chapter takes your child through the process of writing an essay. The first page of every chapter has a brief description, terms to become familiar with and a chart to write down the due dates of each assignment. There are open ended questions that encourage your child to think for themselves, think on a higher level, and organize their thoughts. I found this perfect for my oldest, Dragon. He loves to research and write.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/classical-historian-dvd-program.html" target="_blank">Teaching the Socratic Discussion DVD Curriculum</a> comes with 3 DVDs. The DVDs are not only for the teacher, but for the children as well. The DVDs will teach you how to use the Socratic Discussion method to your children. You will get to see a Socratic Discussion. The last DVD will teach the Tools of the Historian. I appreciate this addition to Take A Stand! Modern American History curriculum. I am a visual and audiotry learner, and this makes it easier for me to get a grasp on what I am teaching. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"> Overall I love this program for my oldest. I think that it plays to his strengths and that will only encourage him to love history even more. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Product Information:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/ancient-history-go-fish.html" target="_blank">Ancient History Go Fish!</a> $11.95</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Recommended for ages 5-195.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/modern-american-history.html" target="_blank">Modern American History</a> ....$179.00</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"> A Complete One Year History Curriculum for High school.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;">The Classical Historian offers Games for All Ages. You can view the games <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/games-for-all-ages.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span style="color: black;">The Classical Historian also offers Ancient Civilizations, Medieval History and American History for grades 6-8. You can find them <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/individual-products.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">They are even going to offer <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/online-classes.html" target="_blank">online classes</a>! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you have any questions, you can contact them by <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/contact-us.html" target="_blank">email</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can also find the Classical Historian on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/classicalhistorian?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-63872012567796438062013-06-20T22:35:00.001-04:002013-06-20T22:35:22.664-04:00I am not Martha Stewart.....For years I have tried to be perfect. I have tried to be the perfect wife, mom, friend, homeschooler, leader and many other things. I have finally figured out that by trying to be perfect at a million and one things is not possible. That I am setting myself up for failure.Over many years I have built a wall up to protect myself from those that don't think I am perfect. I have tried to keep all my imperfections from people, I was afraid of what people would think. It has taken a few years, but with the help of friends, the wall has come down.<br />
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I am no longer scared of being imperfect, everyone is. I am no longer afraid to say No. Not only am I not afraid to say it, I have said it many, many times. I am trying to embrace the fact that I am not perfect. I cannot change that...I can change how I react to not being perfect. I can do the very best that I can. I can also stop trying to be Martha Stewart! She has an army of assistants...I don't!<br />
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I think that it is important for my kids to see that I am not perfect. They need to see me laugh at myself sometimes. They need to see this struggle. I do not want them to think that they have to be perfect, they don't. I think that they are perfect just the way they are.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-68512821433314558602013-06-14T21:45:00.001-04:002013-06-14T21:45:41.315-04:00A New School Year is Ahead....It's one of my favorite times of the year.<br />
<br />Time to get out the new planners.. search the internet...become overwhelmed with wonderful ideas....<br />
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That's right! It's time to plan school!<br />
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Let me tell you...I love this time of year. I love to plan, I will plan anything. I am so lucky that I have friends that help with the follow through. I love having a plan in front of me...I love it. I love the chaos while planning. The kids know to let me plan..I do it twice a year..summer & winter. I like the idea of tweaking things, changing things up...personalizing them. <br /><br />This year will be a little bit different, a little bit more serious...High School. I know that I have expressed my fear of high school. I am not sure why...just am. Dragon, Fire Rat & I have had multiple conversations about high school. The first thing we did was sit down and figure out what he wanted to be...a Creative Writing Major. We looked at the in state schools and determined that an English Major might be a better idea. We looked up 4 in state colleges and looked at what their admission requirements were. We compared them to the SC high school graduation requirements.<br />
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From there we have made a rough outline, allowing Dragon's input on everything but foreign language. We truly believe that in this day and age Spanish is a must. He is still going to pursue Gaelic & Irish on his own. Other than that we are in complete agreement on what he will be doing. Now we just need to put the plan into action. We are also going to meet with an admission counselor at the local community college at some point. He can do dual enrollment and we want that. He can get his associates degree& high school diploma at the same time. :D<br />
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Tracker will be in 8th grade. We will be focusing a little bit more on literature and writing. This is challenging with him. We have not found the perfect approach with his dyslexia yet. I am hoping to find that this year. I want to try and get better at finding the right combination of hands-on learning and reading.<br /><br />My baby will be in 6th grade! I cannot believe how fast time flies!! This year she will be learning how to cook, sew & do some cross stitch. These will help her with her handwriting and patience! I have decided to help her create her own cookbook( I might do this with all the kiddos). Squirrel will pick a handful of recipes and we will cook them together and then she will cook them solo until she masters it. Once she masters the recipe we will move onto the next one. This will guarantee that she will cook one meal a week for dinner. She has dessert down pat! We just need to make sure she is gets the practice for the other meals of the days.<br />
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My overall goal for the kids this year is help the kids to become more independent learners. I realize that they are all getting older and this will be a valuable skill for them.<br />
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Do you have your goals for next year yet??Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-67759911681930515082013-05-29T22:34:00.001-04:002013-05-29T22:34:42.878-04:00Yes You Can...Recently, I lost track of what my heart was telling me to do. I thought that I was doing what it was leading me to, but I wasn't. It started with a very simple question. A simple question that went straight through my heart. It stripped me down, peeled back the layers and showed me where my heart truly is...homeschooling. I love every aspect of homeschooling. I love the late nights worrying about choosing the correct curriculum, they show me that I really care. I love the grey hairs from the struggles we have had, it allows me to help guide my children the way they need to go. I even love those moments that I am completely frustrated with a million questions, they show me that I still have some learning to do. I love when my children question things, it shows their independence! I love Mondays, my co-op friends have become my second family. I love each one of the children like they are my own. I know that this is the single best thing for my family!<br /><br />I also remembered my love for encouraging new homeschoolers. I understand that homeschooling is not the best fit for every family, but I want to help anyone who would like to try. I want to encourage them to blaze their own trail. I don't want them to be afraid to think outside of the box. It was not that long ago that I was the newbie. I was terrified, this was something new and strange. If I did not have two wonderful mentors, I am not sure I would still be doing this. I hope to be as encouraging, patient and knowledgeable just like they were.<br />
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Oh, the question? "Can I ask you a question about homeschooling?". "Yes, yes you can."Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-64646855601888056422013-05-22T18:26:00.000-04:002013-05-22T18:26:10.102-04:00Create Your Homeschool Transcripts with ConfidenceThis month makes it official, I now have a high school student! There is so much more to consider, credit hours, graduation requirements, extracurricular activities, SAT and an official transcript. The one thing on that list that scares me more than anything is the transcript. The big bad transcript, the one thing that summarizes my child's high school years...it a daunting task to do on your own. Luckily for me and other homeschoolers there is a wonderful new website, <a href="http://myhomeschoolgrades.com/" target="_blank">My Home School Grades</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://myhomeschoolgrades.com/" target="_blank">My Home School Grades</a> was created by John Echols and Jordan Shute. JOhn Echols is a homeschooling father. Jordan Shute is a homeschool graduate whose passion is computer programming. John & Jordan put all of their personal experiences and knowledge into My Home School Grades! What could be better that homeschoolers helping other homeschoolers?<br />
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<a href="http://myhomeschoolgrades.com/" target="_blank">My Home School Grades</a> provides a secure place to record your students classes, grades, and extra curricular activities. My Home School Grades allows you to print out official transcripts when you need them. There is no need to send away for them.<br />
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This less than tech savvy person found this program very user friendly. Once you add your student you are able to create their classes. They have done most of the work for you! You choose the title of the class, the subject, the credits(if needed), grade level and whether or not you would like to grade it. My Home School Grades has many homeschool curriculum publishers preloaded for easy record keeping. If your publisher is not listed, you can choose other or contact them and they will add it as soon as they can.<br />
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My Home School Grades customer support is second to none. They have how-to videos to guide you for every step in the program.<br />
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If you need help beyond the videos, or prefer to speak directly with them, you can contact them via email or even call them directly. You can tell by their wonderful customer service, that this is their passion. They truly want to help you succeed in creating your child's transcript.<br />
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My Home School Grades information:<br />
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<li>FREE<a href="http://myhomeschoolgrades.com/sign-up" target="_blank"> 14-day Trial</a></li>
<li>Lifetime Membership $49.99...includes ALL future updates.</li>
<li><a href="http://myhomeschoolgrades.com/app" target="_blank">Website</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MyHomeSchoolGrades" target="_blank">Facebook</a></li>
<li><a href="mailto:info@myhomeschoolgrades.com" target="_blank">Contact Email</a></li>
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5 Things I Love:<br />
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<li>It is super easy to use.</li>
<li>It allows flexibility.</li>
<li>I can use my own curriculum</li>
<li>It calculates final grades for me. </li>
<li>I no longer dread record keeping or transcripts. </li>
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What I would Improve:<br />
1. Grading Scale...my state requires a different grading scale. <b>They are currently working on making this an option!</b> Yeah!<br />
2. Projects...I wish there was a way to include projects. We do a lot of project based learning.<br />
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Those would be my only suggestions. I know that this program is only going to get better. They are constantly improving it and making changes.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-49971182223556137232013-05-01T18:04:00.000-04:002013-05-01T18:04:10.752-04:00Saving Memories Forever Review<br />
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<img alt="Saving Memories Forever" border="0" height="138" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/beb2cc763aeffb8839c1d60c3/images/image_13504177349841350417739.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="400" /><br />
<a href="https://www.savingmemoriesforever.com/" target="_blank">Saving Memories Forever</a> turns your smartphone into a family history recorder. Just sit down with your kids, parents or grandparents and hit record. Every Story Teller has the opportunity to share there thoughts and memories. Saving Memories Forever provides you with a list of story starters. They are questions that go from their childhood into adulthood. They ask everything from sing your favorite song to what historical events do you remember to tell us your favorite joke. You can always add your own questions. <br />
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The neat thing about the smartphone app is the upload button. The upload button uploads your story to their website. Once on their website you can edit your story, add pictures, and share your memories with your family. Your stories are safe on their secure website. <br />
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My thoughts:<br />
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I wish that I had this app before my grandparents passed away. I would love to be able to hear my grandfather's voice again. I can imagine standing next to my grandmother and recording us cooking together. :) I think that <a href="https://www.savingmemoriesforever.com/" target="_blank">Saving Memories Forever</a> is an amazing app. I plan on taking this with me when I travel and see family this summer. I am hoping to use the app to have a cooking session with my mom. What fun would it be for my daughter to be able to always cook besides her grandmother! I want to capture as many memories as I possibly can. <br />
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<a href="https://www.savingmemoriesforever.com/" target="_blank">Saving Memories Forever</a> has a free and a subscription account. The subscription is only $3.99 a month! Not bad. You can use their <a href="https://www.savingmemoriesforever.com/Free-vs-Fee/" target="_blank">comparison chart </a>to decide which is the best fit for your family.<br />
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Get the FREE app <a href="https://www.savingmemoriesforever.com/Get-The-App/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-7873790875092883412013-04-26T23:00:00.002-04:002013-04-26T23:00:46.814-04:00Spanish for You! Review <img alt="Picture" class="wsite-image galleryImageBorder" src="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/1381897.jpg?1347155231" style="border-width: 1px; margin: 5px 10px 10px 0px; padding: 3px;" /><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/index.html" target="_blank">Spanish for You!</a> is an affordable <span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: small;">S</span></span>panish curriculum designed for elementary and middle school children. Spanish for You! is a great introduction to the Spanish language. Spanish for You! uses a thematic approach to teach the fundamentals of the language. I received a copy of their <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/estaciones_sample_pages.pdf" target="_blank">Estaciones</a> curriculum.</span><span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I received e-books of the teachers manual, worksheets, audio and the native speaking audio. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tracker was especially excited to start th<span style="font-size: small;">is program. He has wanted to learn a second language for a long time. <span style="font-size: small;">He loved the fact that it <span style="font-size: small;">a <span style="font-size: small;">'short' lesson everyday. <span style="font-size: small;">He <span style="font-size: small;">enjoy<span style="font-size: small;">ed the audio portion of the curriculum. T<span style="font-size: small;">his is perfect for his dyslexia. He is able to hear it and not rel<span style="font-size: small;">y sole<span style="font-size: small;">ly on <span style="font-size: small;">the reading. <span style="font-size: small;">The one thing that he did find confusing were the p<span style="font-size: small;">ictures for the f<span style="font-size: small;">lash cards. <span style="font-size: small;">He had a hard time differentiat<span style="font-size: small;">ing be<span style="font-size: small;">twe<span style="font-size: small;">en a few <span style="font-size: small;">of the words. We <span style="font-size: small;">are <span style="font-size: small;">in the pr<span style="font-size: small;">oces<span style="font-size: small;">s of redoing the cards, <span style="font-size: small;">so that they are less confusing for him. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I found the <span style="font-size: medium;">downloads a little conf<span style="font-size: medium;">using. <span style="font-size: medium;">The original <span style="font-size: medium;">wo<span style="font-size: medium;">rksheet<span style="font-size: medium;"> downloads were not sort<span style="font-size: medium;">ed by grade. I am happy to repo<span style="font-size: medium;">rt that Debbie from <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/index.html" target="_blank">Spanish for You!</a> has already made that correction. I would <span style="font-size: medium;">also of prefer<span style="font-size: medium;">red for the audi<span style="font-size: medium;">o to be <span style="font-size: medium;">just a tad bit slower<span style="font-size: medium;"> and easier to go ba<span style="font-size: medium;">ck.<span style="font-size: medium;"> I found it difficult to just re<span style="font-size: medium;">pla<span style="font-size: medium;">y <span style="font-size: medium;">one word.<span style="font-size: medium;"> We <span style="font-size: medium;">ended u<span style="font-size: medium;">p liste<span style="font-size: medium;">ning to the ent<span style="font-size: medium;">ire lesson ov<span style="font-size: medium;">er a few ti<span style="font-size: medium;">mes to<span style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Our overall opinion<span style="font-size: medium;"> was favorable. <span style="font-size: medium;">I think that this <span style="font-size: medium;">is a great starting point for <span style="font-size: medium;">the elementary age group. <span style="font-size: medium;">I <span style="font-size: medium;">would<span style="font-size: medium;"> recommend this <span style="font-size: medium;">curriculum to my friends<span style="font-size: medium;">. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Spanish for You! <span style="font-size: medium;">offers FREE <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/free-mini-lessons.html" target="_blank">mini lessons</a> and <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/free-worksheets.html" target="_blank">worksheets</a>. </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You can purchase <span style="font-size: medium;">a <span style="font-size: medium;">4 or 6 week trial....</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span>4 week tri<span style="font-size: medium;">al of the Viajes (tra<span style="font-size: medium;">vel<span style="font-size: medium;"> theme) Grades 5-8 for $9.99</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> 6 week trial of t<span style="font-size: medium;">he Viajes (travel theme) Grades 3-<span style="font-size: medium;">4 </span>for $12.99</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Spanish for You! <span style="font-size: medium;">has <span style="font-size: medium;">a variety of <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/purchase-curriculum.html" target="_blank">packages</a> <span style="font-size: medium;">available:</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/fiestas_sample_book_pages.pdf" target="_blank">Fiesta</a>: $<span style="font-size: medium;">39.95 for 2 <span style="font-size: medium;">grade levels or $64.95 for grades 3-8</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/estaciones_sample_pages.pdf" target="_blank">Estaciones</a>: $39.95 for <span style="font-size: medium;">2 grade levels or $64.95 for grades 3-8</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/class-use.html" target="_blank">Teacher lesson</a><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/class-use.html" target="_blank"> plans</a> are also now avail<span style="font-size: medium;">able. They are $12.95<span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="font-size: medium;">- $14.95.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<span style="color: #009900;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-56086380642538634022013-04-11T08:59:00.000-04:002013-04-11T08:59:02.315-04:00Apologia Planners...ReviewI have admitted many, many times that I am a disorganized person. I would love to get better organized, it would help my perfectionist side. Yes, I am disorganized perfectionist. When I was offered the <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/77-planners" target="_blank">Apologia Planners</a> Review, I jumped at the chance. I told my kids about the planners, they were excited. I was excited that they were excited!<br />
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When the package arrived, my kids argued about who could open it. I received <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Homeschool Planner</a>, <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/332-the-ultimate-daily-planner-for-students.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</a>, and <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/328-the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</a>. I knew that Dragon would like the planner, what surprised me was how much Tracker wanted one. He sat down with the Teen Planner and immediately asked me to purchase one for him. I did just that. I found ordering the planner quick and effortless. The planner arrived quickly and in perfect condition.<br />
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I really cannot say enough about <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Homeschool Planner by Debra Bell</a>. I sat down to flip through the planner and ended up reading every single page. I found tips on how to encourage my children to become independent learners. There was advice on becoming a better teacher and just a better person. There are a variety of planning pages included in the planner. They include yearly planning sheet, goal sheets, a resource list, a field trip recording and much more. The monthly planners are blank, which allows easy personalization. The weekly planners gave you a couple of options on the layout. I chose to list the subjects at the top and the children's names along the side. I like this because, I feel like it is less structured. I set it up as a weekly goal, it is not set to one day. This allowed my rebellious side out.<br />
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<a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/328-the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</a> is just as great, if not better than mine! It really gives responsibility to the teen. There is an area for the teen to track his own hours and even keep track of his credit hours. The back of the planner has tips, tricks, and guides of all kind. My favorite part was a couple of pages on how to cite references. I find the encouraging quotes perfect! They are not too young, nor too old. I think that all teens would find them helpful.<br />
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<a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/332-the-ultimate-daily-planner-for-students.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</a>, is perfect for students of all ages. It has a little bit more writing room than the Teen Planner. Just like the Teen Planner, this planner has pages full of tips and data. There is suggested reading list, a fraction chart, and a space to record your own activities. Once again, I love the fact that it is all geared to the kids becoming independent learners.<br />
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Final Opinion:<br />
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These planners are well worth the money. They have a spiral binding and plastic covers. I really think these were made for people like me. The planners will be a valuable resource for your homeschool. I never knew what I was missing until I received my planner.<br />
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Pros:<br />
<ul>
<li>Spiral Binding</li>
<li>Laminated cover</li>
<li>Undated monthly and weekly planner</li>
<li>easily customizable</li>
<li>Informative guides</li>
<li>Encouraging words for the parents and students. </li>
</ul>
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Cons:<br />
I really couldn't find one. The one thing that I would love is a chart to track our days. We have to homeschool for 180. I would love to see that included in the planner. The other thing that I would like to see is more pages to record the books read. We tend to read a lot of books in our house.<br />
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Product Information:<br />
<a href="http://shop.apologia.com/77-planners" target="_blank"> Apologia Planners </a><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Homeschool Planner</a> $28</li>
<li><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/328-the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</a> $19</li>
<li><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/332-the-ultimate-daily-planner-for-students.html" target="_blank">The Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</a> $19</li>
</ul>
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The lead in was 'Kids and Modern Technology and their Brains'. There were some interesting points raised in the news story. The first is that the phone/text messaging is affecting children's ability to communicate efficiently with each other. They are not learning tone and the many nuisances that are learned while talking with each other. Instead of families talking over dinner, they are checking their emails, facebook or playing games on the various devices. Instead of children going over to their friends' houses and using their imagination, they are playing video games or sending ims and instagrams. The next great point that was raised is that children are losing their ability to entertain themselves. The example that was used was in a restaurant settings. The adults hand a child their smart phone so they can have adult conversations. Kids are losing their ability to wait their turn. They want things instantly. I admit that I am not the patient person in the world. When I get an idea in my head, I want it done yesterday. Back to the topic, kids tend to go to their electronics instead of going outside and inventing a game. They turn to facebook games, instead of board games.<br />
<br />
I personally have a love/hate relationship with technology. I think that it is wonderful, but I also see the downfall. We are constantly connected now. We are never out of touch, we can be found at anytime. We no longer have a separation of work and home. Everyone brings their jobs home now. I personally feel naked without my phone. I worry that someone will not be able to reach me. I am learning that this is not the way things should work. I realize that my children are using the electronics way too much. \I want the conversations that happen over the dinner table and not during The Big Bang Theory. Instead of audio books in the car, the kids have headphones in their ears listening to the latest songs. Instead of debates about the books we have read, we are talking about the newest app they have. Instead of taking time to cook our food as a family, we are finding the quickest methods possible.<br />
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The news story reminded me that we need to slow down. We need to step away from the electronics and go outside. We need to enjoy the small things in life, because those small things will become the big things. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-29480333784011110272013-04-02T11:47:00.001-04:002013-04-02T11:47:36.382-04:00We Choose Virtues Review and Coupon Code<h3 style="text-align: center;">
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" Good character is not a list of rules, or a unit study, it is a lifestyle."</h2>
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<b> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">We Choose Virtues Teacher's Handbook </span></b></div>
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I have looked for a secular 'values education' program for years. I was excited to hear that <a href="http://we-choose-virtues.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">We Choose Virtues</a> had a secular version. I thought that this is perfect for us! </div>
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Heather from We Choose Virtues sent us The Teacher's Manual, Family Character Assessment Tool, Kids of VirtueVille Coloring Book, Memory Verses, Bible Heroes, and Truths, Butterfly Certificate and a sample <a href="http://we-choose-virtues.myshopify.com/collections/tools-for-families/products/parenting-cards" target="_blank">Parenting Card</a> and their <a href="http://we-choose-virtues.myshopify.com/collections/all/products/virtue-flash-cards-for-families" target="_blank">Virtue Flash Cards. </a><br />
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I excitedly printed out the Family Character Assessment Tool and the coloring pages. I sat down to read the teacher's manual and was slightly disappointed. I found the first section encouraging. It helped me see how I could be a better teacher. There were tips, activity and wonderful snippets throughout the chapter. I found it geared more towards a classroom than the homeschool family. The second section describe the different tools that they had available to go with their program.<br />
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Squirrel and I sat down to take the Family Character Assessment Tool. I was surprised as to how attuned she was. She hit everything right on and was a little bit more critical than I would of been. Squirrel decided that she needed to work on Patience first. While she colored her page, we discussed why patience was important. She said she needed patience in her baking, playing games and while shopping. I asked how we could practice patience, she said baking,puzzles, monopoly and even saving money. Great idea!! The next day we sat down to game of Monopoly. We continued to play games everyday. She would remind me at times that I needed to be a little bit more patient. I love it when my kids take their lessons and teach me something.<br />
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My overall impression of We Choose Virtues was okay. I did not find it as secular friendly as I had hoped. I wish that they had <a href="http://we-choose-virtues.myshopify.com/collections/tools-for-families/products/memory-verses-bible-heroes-and-truths" target="_blank">memory verses</a> that we secular. I also found their secular merchandise to be more expensive than the Christian merchandise. If you are looking for a religious program, this is perfect for you! I will be recommending this to my friend who teaches Children's Church.<br />
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We Choose Virtues has a variety of products for you to choose from, they range in price from FREE to $200. You can use their <a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0173/0834/files/comparison_chart.png?425" target="_blank">comparison chart</a> to pick the perfect program for your family. </div>
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We Choose Virtues have given me <u><i>two</i></u> coupon codes to pass on to you. </div>
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<b>HOME20</b> will get you 20% off the <a href="http://we-choose-virtues.myshopify.com/collections/homeschool" target="_blank">Homeschool Kit</a>. It is good through the end of April. </div>
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<b>VIRTUE15 </b>will give you 15% off everything else. They currently have a sale going on, so it is the prefect time to make a purchase. </div>
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To see what other reviewers thought, check out their reviews <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-41446645015431096322013-03-23T15:22:00.000-04:002013-03-23T15:24:21.369-04:00Teaching Finacial Independence....FamilyMint ReviewIn today's economy, teaching financial smarts is a requirement. One of my goals of homeschooling is to make sure that my children are responsible and independent. I think that a key to that is financial no how. When I went to school, we didn't learn about finances. This is why I was so excited to review <a href="http://familymint.com/" target="_blank">FamilyMint's Money Management Certification program. </a><br />
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I could not wait to start the program once I received their workbook. The workbook is broken up into 4 chapters, Tracking Your Money, Goal Setting, Budgeting and Interest-Growing$. Each chapter includes information and worksheets for the children to use. I made copies for the kids and put them into their own folders. The index card is covering up Dragon's log in information for Family Mint Online.<br />
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The first thing that my children did was count all their money and log this as their beginning balance. Once everything was done in their folder, we then entered everything online. FamilyMint suggested that the children make a money jar to keep their money in. My boys did not particularly like this idea, Squirrel used an old money jar that she made last year. <br />
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Once they logged their totals into their balance sheet, we talked about the importance of saving money and setting goals. This is a difficult task for even adults. They each picked a goal to save up for. Tracker chose a new snake, Dragon a Crème Brule Torch and Squirrel is saving her money for a cake decorating class. I thought that these were great goals! We then spoke about the envelope system. My kids had a little difficulty with this task. I had to sit down with each one and speak with them. Once this was done they got a handle on it.<br />
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My overall opinion of this program is good. My kids really enjoyed writing their own checks. I think that it is necessary program for high school students. If we make sure that they have a good financial understanding, they just might not rack up all those credit cards. You should include this in your curriculum!<br />
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One other thing that I loved is that this program was great for all three kids. Two of my children prefer pen & paper and the other is completely digital.<br />
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FamilyMint offers the following options:<br />
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1. <u><b>Introductory Offer:</b></u><br />
Money Management Certification Program Workbook + a <b>LIFETIME </b>subscription to the FamilyMint Premium...<i>only</i> $29.99! <br />
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2. <b><u>Premium Online Application Subscription</u></b>:<br />
Annual: $24.99 Monthly: $4.95<br />
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3. <u><b>Free online application only</b></u><br />
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You an find out more information on their product <a href="http://familymint.com/pricing/#.UU3-phmGRqE" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-14934712737634300402013-02-26T17:47:00.000-05:002013-02-26T17:48:09.388-05:00Review: Seed Starting - The First Step To GardeningOne of my favorite places to be is in my garden. I love the idea of growing the food that feeds my family. I do not have a big yard, less than half an acre, but I always try to have a garden. While I have been gardening for a few years, I am really a novice. There are some things that I just didn't understand. When I was giving the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Seed-Starting-The-First-Gardening-ebook/dp/B00BIZZLSM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1361918598&sr=1-1&keywords=seed+starting-the+first+step+to+gardening" target="_blank">Seed Starting - The First Step to Gardening</a> by Gary Emmett, I jumped at the chance. I was hoping to get some practical advice in a straight forward manner. I found that and more in this Kindle Book. I learned what makes quality planting material. I finally figured out why I cannot grow squash from seeds...transplant shock! Who knew? Mr. Emmett suggested starting your own gardening journal. In your journal you should sketch your garden, plan your plantings, and record your sowing dates. I cannot wait to start my 2013 garden journal!<br />
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I recommend that you get this book before you start your seeds this year. You cannot beat the price $2.99! Get your copy<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Seed-Starting-The-First-Gardening-ebook/dp/B00BIZZLSM/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1361918598&sr=1-1&keywords=seed+starting-the+first+step+to+gardening" target="_blank"> here</a>. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-19576586611316763962013-02-26T07:00:00.000-05:002013-02-26T07:00:07.088-05:00Table Talk <br />
Last week, we played hooky for 2 entire days. We boarded our furry baby, packed an overnight bag and took off. We traveled about 2 hours away, just far enough to get away. One of the places that we have to visit when we got to Charleston is Cane's Chicken. It has a simple menu, they only serve chicken fingers. Yummy! It is one of my children's favorite places in Charleston. We were sitting there eating and somehow human anatomy was brought up. I am really not sure how it came about. The kids wanted to know what the most fragile bone in your body was. We had to determine what exactly they meant. Did you mean the bone most often broken? The easiest bone to break? The final decision was the ear or the nose. Once that was determined, it was on to the strongest bone in the body. Dragon and I said head at the same time. I have always told the kids that they have hard heads. Everyone agreed that it was the head. <br />
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Later that same evening we were discussing junk food vs. good quality food. How we feel after eating each different type of food. This then lead to a conversation about good cheese vs. cheap cheese. Which lead to a conversation about food budgets, backyard gardening and much more. I am thankful that we saved the conversation on dissecting various animals for the house. I can only imagine what other customers would say about that one. <br />
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We have some of the most interesting and bizarre conversations around the table. These are the times that I live for. One night we will play 20 questions or the name game. I sometimes look for conversation starters. Everyone enjoys this family time. We turn off the tv, talk, dream out loud, and have a good time. Many of these conversations lead to games or other unplugged activities. <br />
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I am making it a priority to have many more interesting conversations with my children. What do your dinner conversations sound like?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-78315647000091434272013-02-23T13:38:00.000-05:002013-02-23T15:03:24.406-05:00Blog Planning Made EasierI am so happy to review this product. I have looked at blog planners for years, wishing that my blog was big enough to warrant one. When I became a member of <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/" target="_blank">Mosaic Reviews</a>, they asked me to pick a blog planner to review. I chose <a href="http://www.mamajennblogs.com/2012/12/my-2013-blogging-planner-free-printable.html" target="_blank">Mama Jenn's Blog Planner</a>. It was the <i>single</i> best decision that i have made for my blog. I really do not understand how I have gone this long without this planner.<br />
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How did I use this planner? I printed it out and had it spiral bound at the local office store. I then used tabs to bookmark the months. I have the current month, next month and blog statistics marked. This makes it easier to find the page that I am looking for.<br />
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Here are some things that I learned since I started to use <a href="http://www.mamajennblogs.com/2012/12/my-2013-blogging-planner-free-printable.html" target="_blank">Mama Jenn's Blog Planner</a>.
First, my blog was the perfect size to get a planner. This planner has
shown me the potential of my blog. I now realize that I can use this
planner to take my blog to the next level. <br />
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Click <a href="http://www.mamajennblogs.com/2012/12/my-2013-blogging-planner-free-printable.html" target="_blank">here</a> to get your copy of Mama Jenn's Blog Planner.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-73246244196691143602013-02-12T22:02:00.000-05:002013-02-12T22:02:06.388-05:00A Homeschool Sick Day...Today was a rainy, miserable day. Tracker and Squirrel woke up with a runny noses and sore throats. I promptly told them to stay in their pajamas and curl up. One took the love seat and the other took the couch.<br />
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In my state, homeschoolers do not get to take sick days. We must have 180 days of school. If my children were to go to public school, they would get 10 sick days. Well, I made the executive decision that today was going to be a sick day. I let the kids bundle up on the couches. They watched videos, used the tablet and played on the internet all day long. We spent the day watching American Pickers, North Woods Law, Gator Boys, Tinker Bell, Thor, and many more that I cannot remember. <br />
<br />Shh, please don't tell them but they were learning. Tracker is writing a story about a boy who runs away into the North Woods of Maine. He learned some new laws and even some illegal hunting things. This is not only research for this story, but teaching him hunting ethics. American Pickers teaches some history...love it. Gator Boys they had a snake show. The gentleman, Mark, did a show with a gaboon viper, rattlesnakes and even an Egyptian Cobra.<br />
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This is what we do on a sick day....what do you do?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-52471501951312177622013-02-08T23:13:00.002-05:002013-02-08T23:13:47.684-05:00Learning to Let Go with Indepent LearnersWhen I first starting homeschooling Dragon, he wanted my help with everything. He wanted to sit down and read Harry Potter together. He wanted to show me how he could spin and count to 100. He shared his beautiful dragon drawings. We worked side by side for many years, then he turned 14. He no longer desires my help. He prefers that I set up a weekly schedule. I tell him everything that needs to be done and the due date. He will then go about his business and get it done. It might not be in the time frame that I would like, but it is his way. <br />
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This took me by surprise. I didn't know how not to be needed. So I did what any good homeschooling mom would do, I googled it. I don't know about you, but when I see TONS of links, I tend to get overloaded. I did not find many links on How to Let Go, but rather how to set up checks & balances to make sure he is doing what needs to be done.<br />
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I spent the better part of a week visiting the links that I found. I poured through the data. I took notes and printed <a href="http://fivejs.com/homeschool-weekly-assignment-planner/" target="_blank">checklists</a>, tips, and <a href="http://donnayoung.org/forms/planners/daily.htm" target="_blank">planners</a>. Then I sat down with Dragon and say Ok, you win. I trust you and your judgement. I will be here when you need me, I still need to see your work, but you have the freedom to get it done when you want. I now realize that all those years of sitting side by side, reading together, and goofing off were leading to this moment. The moment that I get to watch him become a young man.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-81747368500947198232013-02-03T18:57:00.001-05:002013-02-03T18:57:49.868-05:00Free Time? What's That?<span style="font-size: large;">One of the biggest myths of homeschooling is that we have all this free time. People assume that since we are home, we don't do anything. That we sit on the couch and let our children run wild. I assure you, this is NOT true. I personally feel like I do not have <i>enough</i> time in the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On any given day we have <strike>a million and one</strike> a dozen things going on. Many homeschoolers have outside commitments. We might still be on our pajamas, but we are doing math, reading, science or maybe watching a documentary. You see my children outside playing with the dog. What you do not see are the hours they spent watching training videos. You see me online, but I am researching and planning for 3 different children, plus my co-op classes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every homeschooling family has a different schedule and they might just change weekly or even daily. Some homeschoolers get up early and get all their 'work' done by noon. Some are just waking up at noon because they are night owls. We create our own school calendars as well. Just because public schools are out of class, that does not mean we are. We take advantages of the less crowded days at museums, zoos and even vacations. </span><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26035997.post-19090500253007868322013-01-26T07:27:00.000-05:002013-01-26T08:43:00.431-05:00Homeschool Mom Panic SyndromeI originally planned to talk about when homeschool moms & dads panic. This is the result of the rambling that transpired.....<br />
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I spent 5 weeks second guessing every decision that I had made regarding homeschooling. I spent weeks researching homeschooling methods, learning styles and different curriculum. It wasn't until I stopped and left the computer alone that I realized I had been going about this the wrong way. I was looking for answers in the wrong place. I should of spent that time getting to know my children a little bit better. I should of been listening and observing my children. I have spent the last few days doing this and I am glad that I did. I have learned so much about my children.<br />
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This is what I learned....<br />
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I need to come up with some sort of routine. Schedules are not flexible enough.<br />
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Tracker is devouring everything he can on reptiles, Maine, hunting, knot tying and surviving in the woods.<br />
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Squirrel is all about crafts, cooking, South Carolina and saving the environment.<br />
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Dragon has a thirst for knowledge that I cannot understand. I am in awe of him. His current reading list has everything from a French Bistro cookbook to the Illiad, to Kathy Reichs and Ancient China. He is currently teaching himself Gaelic. <br />
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The most important thing that I have learned? That my children need just a little bit of guidance. They need me to lay the foundation, but I should let them decide to build the house.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0