A teacher is simply a student with unlimited chalkboard privileges.
Nov. 14, 2006 - Need feedback regarding math curriculums for upper elementary
My daughter is doing fourth grade math but she
is having a terrible time memorizing her times tables. She is certainly
a visual learner so I am considering Math U See, Mortensen or something
of that nature. However, I am afraid that she will quickly outgrow this
manipulative-based learning because she is already in upper elementary.
I know she needs to master these concepts so it leads me to lean toward
making the investment regardless of how quickly she will "outgrow" it.
I would like to know if there are families with older children who are
continuing use of programs like Math U See and Mortensen, or if most
families continue on in other curriculums after 5th or 6th grade. If
you have chosen to change curriculums, would you please share what
programs you have found most beneficial to your children who started
with the manipulative based programs?
Thanks so much!
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Sep. 16, 2006 - What's in a name?
I was messing around with Photoshop and all the fun effects you can add to pictures in the program and came up with this collage of prego photos. They are all real photos from today but they have been altered with glowing edges and charcoal and chalk effects.
Since we aren't finding out what we are having, we have a boy and a girl name chosen. I think these are pretty solid names so I don't anticipate them changing before January but you never know! It was just today that I ran across the name Anneleise (sounds like Anna-Lease) and realized how beautiful I think it is. Well, when I was looking up the meaning of the name, I came to find out that it is a combination of the names "Anne" and "Liese" (fancy that!) but the wonderful part is that the name "Liese" originates from the name "Elizabeth", which just so happens to be the name of my dearest, bosom, kindred-spirit friend of 19 years and a co-blogger of yours, Betsyfriend. It was just so perfect because the "Anne" part reminds me of Anne of Green Gables - a movie I watch at least once a year - and how every time I watch that movie I think of Elizabeth and how dear she is to me. Elionai (sound like saying the letters L-E-O-nigh) is a modified spelling of a Biblical masculine name. It means, "My eyes are on Jehovah". It could easily be shortened to Eli if she so desired.
The meaning of Samuel is quite relevant to the Bible - "I asked of God". Asher has its own story that is dear to my heart but one only few know. However, I had decided many, many years ago upon having "Asher" for a boy's name. It simply means "joy or happiness". I am quite fond of unique names that have a beauty in their meaning and spoken word.
Samuel Asher: I asked of God and He gave me happiness.
Elionai Anneleise: My eyes are on God who is bountiful with grace.
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Sep. 16, 2006 - Seamstress wannabee
I would love to sew vintage clothes. I have a collection of photographs of clothing that I would like to one day sew for my daughters and myself. The wonderful thing about these fashions is that they are very feminine and can be quite beautiful on a girl or a woman. I simply love them! Of course, I have many, many more among my wish list. Perhaps I will have to resort to having someone sew them for me in the future but in the meantime I imagine myself a wonderful seamstress one day!
Does anyone have any suggestions regarding getting started with sewing clothing? Especially clothing that is made up of specialty/delicate fabric?
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Sep. 14, 2006 - Long time no update
Wow, it seems like forever since I have posted a real entry to this blog! I have considered it many times but have felt so overwhelmed by life that I have not taken the time to dedicate anything to blogging. I suppose I need to learn to simplify my entries so they won't seem so daunting; however, I sure picked a fine length of time to attempt to start simplifying!
Let's see...how about a highlight method...
we're finishing up our sixth week of homeschooling and only our second year overall but I am so much more comfortable this year than last!
the homeschool co-op God so blindly entrusted me with is growing in faith and friendships and I have been so blessed by these families - I know He put it on my heart to gather a group together for my sake and certainly not theirs!
we have been through a lot of struggles this year financially and we hope that God has stretched us as far as He wills by this point. my husband has a hopeful second interview with a company tomorrow that could result in our first consistent paycheck in about seven months!
we are just about 22 weeks pregnant and have our ultrasound next week; however, we don't plan to find out what we're having...surprise!
finally came up with a design for the homeschool co-op - no thanks to help from anyone else! - just teasing the "watermelon trees" post was regarding my search for a great logo.
the motto for the homeschool group is "growing in knowledge...rooted in Christ" and I intended to add the tag line "growing great melons since 2004" but was quickly reminded that "melons" could have a bad connotation, especially if printed on a tshirt. therefore, the motto has been modified for apparell to say, "growing great minds since 2004" but I was sad to make the compromise. :o(
our yard may actually see some grass in the coming months if this job comes through. I am so thrilled to finally be able to sit in our backyard and enjoy the morning air and our children's laughter as they play on the trampoline and play set. sounds so simple but it would mean so much to finally be able to invest in completing it.
Well, I suppose that was a lot less overwhelming than detailing things! Hope you all enjoy the updates - if "you all" even encompasses anyone these days! God bless.
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Jul. 17, 2006 - Watermelon Trees
So I have not been on here for eons and it isn't because I haven't thought about it but so much has been going on in our lives that I simply feel overwhelmed with the thought of adding another activity (even if it is for fun). However, this evening won't be my catch up time in as much as it will be a request for all of you (if there are any who actually check my blog after such a long absence!).
Will you do me a huge favor on your summer break and ask your child to draw you a picture of a "watermelon tree". I know there is no such thing but I am having a creativity block and I know kids are the best place to go when that happens! I mean, a child could draw a tree with watermelons growing on its branches or they may draw a watermelon with trees growing on its surface. I can't wait to see what your kids do! If you could scan their drawing or email me a picture of it, I would be so grateful! Like I said, I know it is a strange request but it is for a good cause - my creative sanity! :o)
Thanks to all the creative kids out there who will give it a shot for me!
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Apr. 27, 2006 - 3 days left to save up to 20% on educational toys with a lifetime guarantee!
I
want to share some exciting news with all of you! I am now an
educational consultant for Discovery Toys! I am hoping that if you are
reading this you are asking what exactly that means. Please read the
highlights regarding this wonderful opportunity and how you can receive up to 20% off your purchases with me - now!I would like to offer a discount to all my homeschool blogger friends! If you place an order in the month of April you will receive 20% off retail! SO, please review the catalog
and make up your list of the items you would like to order, then simply
leave me a comment or send me an email with the items you would like to
purchase, your blog address, and your preferred method of contact
(email or phone). It's that easy! AND
if you are willing to place a button on your blog like the one on my
sidebar, in order to share these educational toys with your like-minded
friends, family and blog buddies, then I want to offer you an automatic 10% off ALL of your purchases
for as long as you host the button on an active (meaning you post at
least twice a month) homeschool blogger site. Think of all you can
save between birthdays for your kids, their kids, Christmas, summer
educational toys, baby showers, ancillary products that will compliment
your curriculum needs, etc! Email or comment me today to start saving! I
have been approached to represent many companies, but have never had a
conviction of any kind ot sell them; however I am thrilled to be able
to offer Discovery Toys products. Read on to learn how you can earn
money from home by becoming a consultant for a reputable company with
long-standing respect in the education industry! The level of
encouragement and positive attitudes within this team is such a reward
in itself. And you DON'T HAVE TERRITORIES so you can offer these oustanding products with a lifetime guarantee
to anyone in the United States! I would love to have you join me as I
know we are already like-minded as homeschooling mothers with a passion
to educate our children. Investing in your child's education has never been
SO MUCH FUN!
God often speaks in a language mistaken as coincidence.
First
of all, let me THANK YOU for visiting my website. Whether youre here
through personal contact with me, via a referral from a friend or
relative, by web searching for quality educational products, or by
coincidence, your visit will be a rewarding one!
Now
you ask, "And what is it that you do?" I am a consultant for a company
that helps parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, and the
mother who was the victim of a sneak-attack birthday invitation to find
educational toys that the children in their life will love to learn
with!
A teacher is simply a student with unlimited blackboard privileges.
I
started my career with Discovery Toys based on the strong conviction
that we are our childrens most influential teachers. As a
homeschooling mother I was already living out that belief, and
Discovery Toys has given me the opportunity to learn the priceless
blessings of learning to play with my children. That may sound like a
silly statement to some of you, learning to play with my children,
but being a single mother for many years had limited my time and
ability to be a playful parent. I had spent so much time being mom,
dad, disciplinarian and financial provider that I had nearly forgotten
what it was to be a friend. Discovery Toys has given me the awareness
and tools to satisfy a conviction much deeper than being my childs
teacher; being my childs friend.
Hope: to desire with expectation of obtainment; to expect with confidence
If
youve been hoping for the opportunity to earn a supplemental or
full-time income for your family and to represent a well-established
company with confidence, Discovery Toys may very well be what youve
been waiting for.
What you can look forward to as a Discovery Toys Educational Consulant:
· growing friendships with your children
· women who will encourage your ability to succeed
· products that arent simply photos in a catalog, but memories of priceless moments with your children
· tax write offs for every birthday child in your life (up to $25 per child, per year)
· a customer base that will never go away as long as there are children in this world!
· countless ways you can share your products
· flexibility to choose your level of involvement
· the ability to sell to anyone in the United States (no sales territories)
· offering friends free toys for simply hosting a play day party
To
get started, simply contact me to purchase a kit of 11 of our best
selling toys/books. You can pay in full or by deposit of $25 on your
debit/credit card. Your kit will include business supplies such as
catalogs, customer order forms, invites, hostess packets and much more!
I truly believe Discovery Toys products are among the best educational toys in the industry.
Benefits of purchasing our products include:
· a selection of toys developed for children of all learning abilities, including children with special needs
· durable products that are easy to clean
· a lifetime guarantee
· the ability to purchase replacement parts at a nominal cost
· a company with a 26 year history of helping children learn through play
·
me, every step of the way to answer the questions that will help you
meet your child where they are and take them everywhere they want to go
· products that allow you to cater to your childs strengths or to work toward growing them in their weaknesses
I
look forward to hearing from you! Should you have any questions about
our products or about your business opportunity, please contact me
today!
 Victoria SheahanDiscovery Toys Consultant480.236.8902victoria@discoverytoysweb.comhttp://www.discoverytoysweb.com CASTLE THEATRE Finger Puppets are an incredible 25% off regular price
only $14.99 through the month of April AND get some of your old favorite at a discount while supplies last!
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Mar. 26, 2006 - Fruit and Veggie Co-op
 A
woman near our neighborhood started a fruit and vegetable co-op. What
a great idea! We drop our name-labeled-basket off on Friday night with
$15 and pick it up on Satruday morning full of fruits and veggies. She
does this every two weeks for us. As
you can see from the first photo, there is a wide variety of items in
the basket. It changes each week with what is in season. This week we
received celery, zuchinni, cauliflower, oranges, lemons, tomatoes, red
potatoes, bananas, strawberries, yellow peppers, red apples, mangos,
gala apples, butternut squash, asian pears and yams. The second photo
shows the basket as we received it and the third photo is a fruit
medley I took to a party this weekend (all the fruit on the platter was
from our last basket!). If
you don't have a co-op in your neighborhood, I would recommend starting
one! Ours currently has over 150 families! Even if she is making only
a couple bucks off of each basket, she is making out and providing a
great service! It really helps me expand my recipe horizon as well! |
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Mar. 20, 2006 - A love like this...must listen!
I ran across this story about Annie and Jerry Perasa and I just HAD to share. You will definitely be blessed. Although I am not partial to many of NPR's liberal slants, I have discovered wonderful diamonds-in-the-rough there. This one sparkles more than any of them! Just take a listen: http://www.npr.org/dmg/dmg.php?prgCode=ME&showDate=24-Feb-2006&segNum=18&mediaPref=WM&getUnderwriting=1"The story of Danny and Annie Perasa -- how they met, and how they've stayed in love -- inspires many who hear it. Their joy in life, and in one another, was celebrated recently in New York, where a crowd gathered to honor Danny and Annie. The Perasas are a memorable couple. In person, they come off like a pair of favorite grandparents, with thoughtful wisecracks and stories that take unpredictable turns. They say their affinity for one another was always obvious -- Danny proposed marriage on their first date.
When the Perasas launch into a story, their joy in telling it is obvious. Married since 1978, they have a sweetness about them that makes everyday items -- like notes left around the house -- seem exciting. On the radio and in person, Annie and Danny's infectious enthusiasm draws listeners in, making them strain to hear what the couple have to say.
Their enthusiasm has now been honored in a tangible way. The StoryCorps oral history project has dedicated its booth in Grand Central Terminal to the Perasas. On Friday, Feb. 10, a plaque was unveiled that dedicated the booth to the Perasas. The plaque reads: 'This booth is dedicated to Danny and Annie Perasa, who recorded their story here on January 6, 2004. Their humor, heart, eloquence and love will never be forgotten.'
The couple made the trip to the ceremony despite Danny's illness: Suffering from pancreatic cancer, he is currently in hospice care. Their visit was a treat for those present, as the Perasas revisited the conversation they had that day in 2004, and the life they've shared since 1978."
What a blessing to know your love's love in this way...
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Mar. 5, 2006 - SO blessed!
These are my new newest and greatest finds! Hubby and I were driving past a moving sale in our neighborhood and discovered this table. It is a beauty! We had been wanting to get a table/large desk upstairs for school and games, etc. This table was perfect for having friends over for co-op classes or sitting down for a family card game. It expands to an oval and came with six chairs, although it is currently set up as a circle with four chairs. The table is solid wood and originally came from Pottery Barn. It would have cost 1200.00 if we would have bought it new, but it was only...$200! We were so excited to get six wolid wood chairs and a pedestal table with leaf for $200! We expected to pay more than that for the desk so this was such an incredible blessing!
My newest toy is an overhead projector. I had wanted one for some time because we have several overhead sheets with maps and such but no projector. I wish I would have taken a before and after photo of it because when we picked it up a couple days ago for $35 with a working bulb (the bulbs alone are $20-25) it was a once-gray-now-dingy-yellow color with a sticker inside stating it was made in 1997. I don't think the thing was cleaned since then either because the dirt on it and in it was pretty thick! So, I took it apart, scoured it and spray painted it black. It's a GREAT little projector now! Well, it was before, but now it looks great too. :o) A new one would have cost me around $200 so I was so pleased!
In the time I have been away from blogging things have gotten pretty crazy. My hubby has picked up a teaching class at the church and a month ago I started a homeschool group in our neighborhood because I could not find one nearby and I didn't have the wheels to get to the one that is held at our church (one car family). SO, I started this group online and you wouldn't believe the response! I feel silly being the leader of a homeschool group/co-op since it is only my first year homeschooling, and to be honest I really DID NOT want to lead one up. However, I knew our girls needed the interaction so I prayed about it and followed the Lord's guidance. We now have over 30 families that are members and over 100 children within those families. Our first field trip is this week and there are over 60 children going to the local raw milk farm. We are currently trying to find a location near us that will house us in the summer (when it's 115 degrees - and there has been no measurable rain since the middle of Ocotober here so who knows what the heat will be like this year!).
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Mar. 5, 2006 - Puppet Theatrics
Hubby and I built this puppet theatre for the girls for their birthdays. We used the leftover wood from a dresser that broke. I think it turned out great. We put two puppet entries because we knew the girls would probably argue if they only had one. I am going to make curtains for it eventually and I will probably cover the screw heads with some cute painted wooden or clay hearts I have in the craft box. I will post again when it is complete. However, in the meantime, the kids have put on a couple shows by throwing blankets up. They really know how to get the audience involved!
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Mar. 5, 2006 - The second largest airplane in the world
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We live near what was formerly Williams Air Force Base. It is now Williams Gateway Airport. My hubby has told me a lot of things about the aircraft he sees on this base, as he is an airplane buff. However, these are photos of some of the most interesting of the bunch. The Apache helicopter above has a gun attached to the body of the aircraft. It is controlled by the sight of the pilot. The pilot controls where the gun aims with his line of sight. Whatever he looks at becomes the target. Naturally these pilots must have 20/20 vision or better - no one with crossed or lazy eyes because the sensors couldn't register properly.
The fighter planes are just cool looking. I don't know much about them except that they take off in groups and are very loud and very fast. I believe my husband also said that they can practically raise straight up off the ground rather than having to climb gradually to increase altitude like most planes.
The last photos are of the second largest airplane in the world. Being that this base was once a military base, its airstrip has the capacity to handle massive weight. It so happens that this plane is Russian and it arrived on that day to pick up two of the helicopters you see above. The helicopters were being taken to Israel. The AH-124-100 was back again last week although I don't know what it was there to pick up this time!
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Jan. 30, 2006 - Calling all homeschoolers - your help please!
Would
you all be so kind as to tell me what are the best places in your
city/town/state (a.k.a. neck of the woods) to take field trips with
your homeschoolers? I don't need a ton of details, although I do enjoy
them. Simply names and cities would be wonderful if you all would be
willing to help me out. Thank you!
ie: parks, museums, farms,
forests, lakes, preserves, camping, nature hikes, National monuments,
local deli, botanical gardens, zoos, observatories, libraries, historic
landmarks, reptile house, factory, cheese-making plant, anything that
is a can't-miss in your area...
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