Wednesday, April 30, 2008
No way!!!!!!!!!
Mocha ate a whole brick of butter!!!!! It's time for a good dog whippin'! (get it, whipped butter??)
A Day of Preschool
The boys brought home a large play set that is being given to us...yesterday, after half of it was brought home, Josh saw me look out the window and said, "Don't look Mom." So of course I looked...yikes! I imagined all sorts of shenanigans to get it to stand up like that. I said, "Joshua..." He responded calmly with "I told you NOT to look!" Anyway, that has been their project today, to set up the rest of it. It's quite a project.
So, since the lumber jacks were all out in the yard today, I had Becca and Drew to myself. We got a lot done, too! Becca received a nice promise book for her graduation present. She asked me what 'joy' meant. So we looked it up in the 1828. Joy is based on the expectation of good. And since God is good, we can expect good. No matter what the circumstances. Hallelujah! Well, I've been all out of sorts this week, so guess who God spoke to through that little message?? Me, of course! Out of the mouths of babes.
So, since the lumber jacks were all out in the yard today, I had Becca and Drew to myself. We got a lot done, too! Becca received a nice promise book for her graduation present. She asked me what 'joy' meant. So we looked it up in the 1828. Joy is based on the expectation of good. And since God is good, we can expect good. No matter what the circumstances. Hallelujah! Well, I've been all out of sorts this week, so guess who God spoke to through that little message?? Me, of course! Out of the mouths of babes.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Co-op This Week
For co-op this week we discussed forms of government. I think maybe I did a little too much for the age levels, but the older kids seemed to get the idea. The other thing I thought, afterwards, is that we ought to do the group time first. Then the kids aren't as antsy. Anyway, we played a game. The first part was to demonstrate a Democracy by voting on a punishment for the crimes of two of the young ladies in the group. The boys all voted for execution. (Go figure!) Next we demonstrated a Republic (after reviewing Ex. 18) by separating into 3 'towns' and electing representatives. At first I thought that the kids were too antsy that day to 'get' the message. But at the end, when I asked which model represented the needs of the individual better, I got the right answer. :-) Cool!
Doggie Pictures
We'll get one of Mocha soon and post it, too. It will be titled, "Big, Dumb and Happy." :-)
Government Class
Ok, so we haven't reached the Constitution yet...I don't know why I'm surprised. It always takes longer than I originally imagined. I think this is why I can't follow the Noah Plan - it's TOO structured. (Not very conducive to 6 grade levels, either.)
So we're wrapping up the Political Principles of the Founders on Monday, and THEN heading into the Constitution. I'm enjoying the prep in "Steve." To wrap up the previous section, the kids have to define American Federalism and how it is maintained or eroded. We've been discussing how this applies to the 'promises' of the candidate hopefuls... I have been intrigued by new information about how the 3 branches were set up. I used to use 3 lines in a triangle, with the points disconnected, to demonstrate them. Now, however, I see that this is somewhat inaccurate. Instead, as "Steve" shows, it is more like 3 circles, of different sizes (different percentages of power and responsibility are given to each circle), but with another percentage of overlapping (and conflicting) powers and responsibilities. Montesquieu outlined this separation of powers, but Madison expanded on it, developing a uniquely American Federalism.
Next year, I am looking forward to more of The Federalist Papers, more of Madison, more of Paine...and the beginning of Adam Smith, who helped to define the Free Market System for America, which is founded on individual liberty - to fail or succeed, and to act upon conscience in buying and selling.
For the Economics section of our work, we are going to focus on the 10 pillars, found in GACE, along with the Free Market section of "Steve." I've found "Steve" to be quite informative, at a ground level, something I have needed for my own learning.
As a summary of the political principles, I'm going to contrast American Constitutional Federal Republic with a time line of collectivism, beginning with the Garden and ending with Revelation. (Thanks to Ted for his invaluable help in this area.)
Some assignments they have been given...They are going to evaluate a particular issue, as presented by the candidates, and compare that with the model of Federalism, and/or the Free Market system. Another one is to write a letter to our representatives regarding homeschooling, in light of the CA issues. They are to examine the ideas of conscience in individual liberty as laid out by our Founding Fathers and present this as a case for individual choice in homeschooling. The test at the end of "Steve" requires that they memorize an outline of the Constitution, using the main ideas of each section.
On a completely different subject, my children went to 'take your child to work day' at Lockheed Martin today. (I couldn't go - I'm considered a security risk!) They came home with 'sticky brains' which, when thrown against a wall, or the refrigerator, will slowly crawl down the vertical surface to the floor. Remember, I have 5 boys - they're totally awed by this gooey toy. When they got home I was immediately confronted with, "Dude, Mom! Look at this!" (Yes, they really do call me 'Dude, Mom.'
So we're wrapping up the Political Principles of the Founders on Monday, and THEN heading into the Constitution. I'm enjoying the prep in "Steve." To wrap up the previous section, the kids have to define American Federalism and how it is maintained or eroded. We've been discussing how this applies to the 'promises' of the candidate hopefuls... I have been intrigued by new information about how the 3 branches were set up. I used to use 3 lines in a triangle, with the points disconnected, to demonstrate them. Now, however, I see that this is somewhat inaccurate. Instead, as "Steve" shows, it is more like 3 circles, of different sizes (different percentages of power and responsibility are given to each circle), but with another percentage of overlapping (and conflicting) powers and responsibilities. Montesquieu outlined this separation of powers, but Madison expanded on it, developing a uniquely American Federalism.
Next year, I am looking forward to more of The Federalist Papers, more of Madison, more of Paine...and the beginning of Adam Smith, who helped to define the Free Market System for America, which is founded on individual liberty - to fail or succeed, and to act upon conscience in buying and selling.
For the Economics section of our work, we are going to focus on the 10 pillars, found in GACE, along with the Free Market section of "Steve." I've found "Steve" to be quite informative, at a ground level, something I have needed for my own learning.
As a summary of the political principles, I'm going to contrast American Constitutional Federal Republic with a time line of collectivism, beginning with the Garden and ending with Revelation. (Thanks to Ted for his invaluable help in this area.)
Some assignments they have been given...They are going to evaluate a particular issue, as presented by the candidates, and compare that with the model of Federalism, and/or the Free Market system. Another one is to write a letter to our representatives regarding homeschooling, in light of the CA issues. They are to examine the ideas of conscience in individual liberty as laid out by our Founding Fathers and present this as a case for individual choice in homeschooling. The test at the end of "Steve" requires that they memorize an outline of the Constitution, using the main ideas of each section.
On a completely different subject, my children went to 'take your child to work day' at Lockheed Martin today. (I couldn't go - I'm considered a security risk!) They came home with 'sticky brains' which, when thrown against a wall, or the refrigerator, will slowly crawl down the vertical surface to the floor. Remember, I have 5 boys - they're totally awed by this gooey toy. When they got home I was immediately confronted with, "Dude, Mom! Look at this!" (Yes, they really do call me 'Dude, Mom.'
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Summer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Our summer schedule begins whenever we are finished with the bulk of our courses for the school year. That might be May23rd or June 27th, depending.
We plan to build garage cabinets this summer (personally, I'm an organizer, so I can't wait!). There are dead trees that need to be cut down and cut into firewood, and we'll probably have to go cut more to get us through next winter. Spring cleaning is part of the mix, and maybe inside painting...we'll see. We plan to hike once a week, and maybe swim once a week. Brian is hoping for full time work, as is Josh...I'm hoping to write next year's outline for school and maybe work on writing a novel.
We're planning for a veggie garden this summer. Broccoli, string beans, radishes, carrots, green onions, sweet peppers...Now, how to keep the birds, the squirrels, the rabbits, the elk and deer, the dogs AND the kids out of the planters...
I'm trying to decide if we ought to have our group birthday party this year...It's a family gathering, pot luck, gifts are optional type of party, outdoors usually. But I got to thinking about individuality and I'm wondering if this is a good idea or a bad idea...I'll have to think about this one.
Ted, Kim and I want to write a book on Liberty of Conscience. And we were discussing getting together our families for Bible study over the summer.
It feels like Summer outside today, almost!
We plan to build garage cabinets this summer (personally, I'm an organizer, so I can't wait!). There are dead trees that need to be cut down and cut into firewood, and we'll probably have to go cut more to get us through next winter. Spring cleaning is part of the mix, and maybe inside painting...we'll see. We plan to hike once a week, and maybe swim once a week. Brian is hoping for full time work, as is Josh...I'm hoping to write next year's outline for school and maybe work on writing a novel.
We're planning for a veggie garden this summer. Broccoli, string beans, radishes, carrots, green onions, sweet peppers...Now, how to keep the birds, the squirrels, the rabbits, the elk and deer, the dogs AND the kids out of the planters...
I'm trying to decide if we ought to have our group birthday party this year...It's a family gathering, pot luck, gifts are optional type of party, outdoors usually. But I got to thinking about individuality and I'm wondering if this is a good idea or a bad idea...I'll have to think about this one.
Ted, Kim and I want to write a book on Liberty of Conscience. And we were discussing getting together our families for Bible study over the summer.
It feels like Summer outside today, almost!
Schedule, what schedule??
People often ask how I schedule school with so many kids and so many different levels of learning. I don't know, it depends on the week you ask me! One of the things I've learned, with this many children, is that no schedule is solid. Things change from week to week, depending on the kids, things I have to do to maintain our home, whether or not Daddy is home, if some are unwell, etc.
Now that I no longer have a Toddler, however, things, being fluid as they are, don't change quite as drastically. With the babies, into toddlerhood, it changed every 5 minutes!
We do follow a 'school year.' We're 'off' during the summer. I keep an Excel spread sheet of grades and they keep notebooks of their work.
This year, this is our schedule:
Monday 9-12 is Government and Economics (Bri, Josh, Jon). During class, Daniel, Becca and Drew do chores off a list I print for them (change sheets, vacuum, clean bathrooms, etc.) Then they go on to school lessons that they can do together, without me. Monday night, Bri has CAP. He drives himself now, and sometimes a sibling or two.
After Gov't, they have assignments for other classes to do - Physics, Grammar, Math, Physical Science, etc.
Tuesdays we meet at a friend's home, from 10ish to 12ish. We are going through the Chain of Christianity. Brian and Josh stay home and work on assignments. When we get home, we do lunch, chores and then prepare for dinner.
Wednesday, we're home. We sit around the kitchen table, or the computer and work together, but individually. Grammar, Spelling, COC reports, Math, 'Social Studies' (Rod & Staff), Bible, etc. We're finished by lunch, or soon after. Brian has Physics, which I try to attend, from 3-5 in Pine.
Thursday we're home too. Becca has dance in the afternoon, and sometimes she spends the night Wed or Thurs or both (depending on snow). Our plan today is the same as Wed, except Ted comes over to teach Physical Science to Jon and Josh from 1-4. I try to attend this class or work with Becca and Drew.
Every other Friday Daddy is off. So we don't 'do school' on those off days. Sometimes the boys will work with Dad on woodworking, or we'll go somewhere. They went skiing on some of those Fridays during the winter. The other Fridays, I'm trying to incorporate games that teach. We don't always get to those, but that is a goal. Drew likes alphabet bingo. We have a lot of good teaching games. Yatzee is great for math! Scrabble, Rummy Cube, 13 Solitaire, etc. are all games we like. Then, if we have time, we do bookwork, too.
Each of the kids has a day that they are supposed to cook dinner. They must prepare and plan ahead (a good lesson to explain Providence!). While cooking we manage adding and multiplying fractions, if needed, too. Even Drew has a night to cook, after much expression of his desire to do so. :-)
What courses are they taking?
Sciences: Physics, Physical Science (both Apologia), Health & Safety (Abeka)
Math: Ray's Arithmetic, mostly, and Saxon drills
Social Studies: Rod & Staff
Grammar: Rod & Staff (really, really like this one!)
Spelling: WRtoR (we're behind in this...)
History: Story of the World, Streams of Civilization, a whole plethora of books, and the internet
Government: A Guide for Teaching and Learning the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, "Steve" for short, Common Sense, The Federalist Papers, the Red Books, including GACE
Economics: Bob Jones (it's ok...), and several others, including GACE, and "Steve"
Literature: Abeka, World and American, and the internet (we're really slow on this one, but plugging along)
Woodworking: all sorts of stuff
Home Ec: you name it - laundry, cooking, house cleaning, yard work, sewing, ironing, etc.
Art? Well, not this year. Josh and Becca like to take classes that are offered locally. And Becca is taking dance with CMA
PE? Sporadically, self-directed
Music? self-directed, piano, harmonica, djembe drum, guitar, violin, singing...no real plan here yet
What do they do in their free time? Walk dogs, ride bikes, skate, gaming (computer, game system, figures), watch movies, board games, Becca plays with dolls, makes jewelry, etc.
When do I study? From 6-8 in the morning or in between everything, whenever I can.
Off to change tires in town, and then off to co-op (today's Tuesday)
Now that I no longer have a Toddler, however, things, being fluid as they are, don't change quite as drastically. With the babies, into toddlerhood, it changed every 5 minutes!
We do follow a 'school year.' We're 'off' during the summer. I keep an Excel spread sheet of grades and they keep notebooks of their work.
This year, this is our schedule:
Monday 9-12 is Government and Economics (Bri, Josh, Jon). During class, Daniel, Becca and Drew do chores off a list I print for them (change sheets, vacuum, clean bathrooms, etc.) Then they go on to school lessons that they can do together, without me. Monday night, Bri has CAP. He drives himself now, and sometimes a sibling or two.
After Gov't, they have assignments for other classes to do - Physics, Grammar, Math, Physical Science, etc.
Tuesdays we meet at a friend's home, from 10ish to 12ish. We are going through the Chain of Christianity. Brian and Josh stay home and work on assignments. When we get home, we do lunch, chores and then prepare for dinner.
Wednesday, we're home. We sit around the kitchen table, or the computer and work together, but individually. Grammar, Spelling, COC reports, Math, 'Social Studies' (Rod & Staff), Bible, etc. We're finished by lunch, or soon after. Brian has Physics, which I try to attend, from 3-5 in Pine.
Thursday we're home too. Becca has dance in the afternoon, and sometimes she spends the night Wed or Thurs or both (depending on snow). Our plan today is the same as Wed, except Ted comes over to teach Physical Science to Jon and Josh from 1-4. I try to attend this class or work with Becca and Drew.
Every other Friday Daddy is off. So we don't 'do school' on those off days. Sometimes the boys will work with Dad on woodworking, or we'll go somewhere. They went skiing on some of those Fridays during the winter. The other Fridays, I'm trying to incorporate games that teach. We don't always get to those, but that is a goal. Drew likes alphabet bingo. We have a lot of good teaching games. Yatzee is great for math! Scrabble, Rummy Cube, 13 Solitaire, etc. are all games we like. Then, if we have time, we do bookwork, too.
Each of the kids has a day that they are supposed to cook dinner. They must prepare and plan ahead (a good lesson to explain Providence!). While cooking we manage adding and multiplying fractions, if needed, too. Even Drew has a night to cook, after much expression of his desire to do so. :-)
What courses are they taking?
Sciences: Physics, Physical Science (both Apologia), Health & Safety (Abeka)
Math: Ray's Arithmetic, mostly, and Saxon drills
Social Studies: Rod & Staff
Grammar: Rod & Staff (really, really like this one!)
Spelling: WRtoR (we're behind in this...)
History: Story of the World, Streams of Civilization, a whole plethora of books, and the internet
Government: A Guide for Teaching and Learning the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, "Steve" for short, Common Sense, The Federalist Papers, the Red Books, including GACE
Economics: Bob Jones (it's ok...), and several others, including GACE, and "Steve"
Literature: Abeka, World and American, and the internet (we're really slow on this one, but plugging along)
Woodworking: all sorts of stuff
Home Ec: you name it - laundry, cooking, house cleaning, yard work, sewing, ironing, etc.
Art? Well, not this year. Josh and Becca like to take classes that are offered locally. And Becca is taking dance with CMA
PE? Sporadically, self-directed
Music? self-directed, piano, harmonica, djembe drum, guitar, violin, singing...no real plan here yet
What do they do in their free time? Walk dogs, ride bikes, skate, gaming (computer, game system, figures), watch movies, board games, Becca plays with dolls, makes jewelry, etc.
When do I study? From 6-8 in the morning or in between everything, whenever I can.
Off to change tires in town, and then off to co-op (today's Tuesday)
Monday, April 14, 2008
A New Friend
I met a new friend this week - her name is Pony. I'm very impressed with this lady, though I've never laid eyes on her. Her spirit of devotion to God was very evident in her email. If you think of it when you read this, please pray for her, as the Lord leads.
Today was full of not-so-fun things. I've filled out half of the paperwork for my mother's return to Colorado. I've filed her taxes. I've filed my taxes, but I have to send Brian to the PO tomorrow to mail our state taxes. I have to stay home and nurse our dog, Akita, who apparently got into something like fiberglass. She is bleeding internally. It seems to have stopped, but we're not out of the woods yet (never mind that we LIVE in the woods!). I had to shorten government glass to take her to the vet.
Government class was fun, until it ended abruptly. We're into Federalism, de Tocqueville and Locke's 'social compact'. Republicanism and Democracy. And a look at the French Revolution. We were just about to head into the Free Market System when Akita's condition became apparent.
Due to nursing Akita, we have to miss our co-op tomorrow. We're sad about that, but I don't see any way around it. Next week, for co-op, we'll finish Biblical instructions regarding view of government.
I'm tired, hopeful (for Akita), disappointed (about tomorrow), excited (about my website) and pressed (with a lot to do).
Inspired by Pony, I'll quote part of a verse - 'we are pressed, but not crushed...' God is faithful, always. No matter how tired or stretched you feel, REMEMBER. God is faithful, always. Look for His Hand in the pressing and stretching and you'll find it. I promise.
Today was full of not-so-fun things. I've filled out half of the paperwork for my mother's return to Colorado. I've filed her taxes. I've filed my taxes, but I have to send Brian to the PO tomorrow to mail our state taxes. I have to stay home and nurse our dog, Akita, who apparently got into something like fiberglass. She is bleeding internally. It seems to have stopped, but we're not out of the woods yet (never mind that we LIVE in the woods!). I had to shorten government glass to take her to the vet.
Government class was fun, until it ended abruptly. We're into Federalism, de Tocqueville and Locke's 'social compact'. Republicanism and Democracy. And a look at the French Revolution. We were just about to head into the Free Market System when Akita's condition became apparent.
Due to nursing Akita, we have to miss our co-op tomorrow. We're sad about that, but I don't see any way around it. Next week, for co-op, we'll finish Biblical instructions regarding view of government.
I'm tired, hopeful (for Akita), disappointed (about tomorrow), excited (about my website) and pressed (with a lot to do).
Inspired by Pony, I'll quote part of a verse - 'we are pressed, but not crushed...' God is faithful, always. No matter how tired or stretched you feel, REMEMBER. God is faithful, always. Look for His Hand in the pressing and stretching and you'll find it. I promise.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
A week of fun new things
So this week I've been looking into lesson maps, courtesy of Lisa from Me and My House (http://frommeandmyhouse.com/led.htm). I'm really excited about these, being a visual learner. It's funny how you see things, or hear about them, and they pass on by. Then all of a sudden, there they are again and they hit you like a smack to the forehead. It's not like I've never heard of these before. I've even seen Lisa's before.
As an aside, my health is improving, including my mental perception of all that I have to do. For this reason, perhaps, looking at lesson maps doesn't seem overwhelming anymore...
At any rate, I sent a sample over to Lisa of an event map and she sent it back, expanded (from her car, no less!!!!) into the finer details, with pictures et al. Very cool! I've provided a link to her PIPEline page on my website in RMCHC News. It's worth the look. I'm going to use this for Drew's report on the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses - hey if an almost-6-yo can do it, anyone can, right?
Now if I can figure out how to post it on the website...I posted a page, but not the 'map'. It's on the "On the Table" page in "Lesson Plans".
Another new thing: Ted, Kim and I are talking about writing a book on Liberty of Conscience. Wow! I couldn't have picked a better combination of support for such an endeavor. Although I'm not so sure I'm up to Kim's level of writing, perhaps the 3 of us will work from different angles and give a more rounded view than we would have by ourselves. God often works in 3's....
It's Saturday - dh is working, the boys and David have plans to go help the Bucholz move this afternoon. House cleaning is the order of the morning - to loud, uplifting worship music. Can't clean without the music.
But for the moment...it's quiet. Shhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
As an aside, my health is improving, including my mental perception of all that I have to do. For this reason, perhaps, looking at lesson maps doesn't seem overwhelming anymore...
At any rate, I sent a sample over to Lisa of an event map and she sent it back, expanded (from her car, no less!!!!) into the finer details, with pictures et al. Very cool! I've provided a link to her PIPEline page on my website in RMCHC News. It's worth the look. I'm going to use this for Drew's report on the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses - hey if an almost-6-yo can do it, anyone can, right?
Now if I can figure out how to post it on the website...I posted a page, but not the 'map'. It's on the "On the Table" page in "Lesson Plans".
Another new thing: Ted, Kim and I are talking about writing a book on Liberty of Conscience. Wow! I couldn't have picked a better combination of support for such an endeavor. Although I'm not so sure I'm up to Kim's level of writing, perhaps the 3 of us will work from different angles and give a more rounded view than we would have by ourselves. God often works in 3's....
It's Saturday - dh is working, the boys and David have plans to go help the Bucholz move this afternoon. House cleaning is the order of the morning - to loud, uplifting worship music. Can't clean without the music.
But for the moment...it's quiet. Shhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
It's Snowing!!!!!!!!
So this is a week of new things...
New dog - Mocha. She's a chocolate lab, and twice the size of Toby. With a curly tail, like Kita. We're going to call up Raina (who gave her to Josh) and have all the kids stand around the phone and chant (to the tune of 'we like to move it, move it'), "We like the Mocha, Mocha! We like the Mocha, Mocha!" That ought to make her laugh.
New computer. From Raina, too. Like we need another computer. But this one is Windows 98. Most of our old games for the computer are in this category and won't run on our newer computers. So now Andrew has a whole host of Pre-school through 6th grade games that we thought we'd be getting rid of. Science, math, reading, puzzles, creativity, coordination. All sorts of good stuff. Andrew is only a little more excited than Josh. AND, they can play the old Frogger. Be still my heart!
So what's on for today? Shoveling! Lots of shoveling.
Andrew gets to play Alphabet Bingo. And 7 Pieces - I don't think they make it anymore, but it's an awesome game. There are 7 pieces of hard, purple plastic, in traditional shapes (square, triangle, etc.). Andrew made a rabbit out of them yesterday. The biggest challenge? Make a square out of all the pieces. I believe it is Asian in origin, but don't quote me on that.
Probably no Science with Ted - too much snow.
So test on Module 11, 'Steve' (the name given to our Government book), Spelling, Grammar. We'll see how we do. Physics. Checkbook balancing on Microsoft Money (Daniel).
For Bible? I don't know - Becca's not here! Praying for something special for Andrew who wants to read the Bible every 5 minutes. (Not that I'm complaining, mind you - there could be much worse obsessions!) I'm leaning toward an introduction to Individuality, which he already has heard a lot of. Bible will be the only officially PA lesson we do today, although Government follows PA in the text.
Andrew's math lesson? He wanted to know how many days he has been alive. And he wants to learn about plants. Yesterday we looked at pictures of the life cycle of moss, ferns, flowers and trees. Since we just watched the Bee movie, he was particularly interested in how bees spread pollen. Today he wants to learn about frogs...off we go. He wants to explain the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses to our co-op...You know - I think he'll pull it off! He is currently talking a lot about writing computer games. Not sure if that's because we're setting up computers, or if that's a clue of his future.
I am studying 'Steve' to prepare for Monday's class. It's very interesting. The Political Principles of the Founders is the name of the section. Federalism, the different forms of a Republic, and our American form of Republicanism. Lots more. Tocqueville's view of the American 'experiment.' His view is worth quoting, and I may do that in my 'conscience' blog, because much of his amazement with our form of government had to do with that, from what I've seen so far.
I would really like to engage Daniel a little more in our lessons. He's very quiet and seems to be in his own world so much of the time. The subject that seems to fascinate him the most is Science. Right now he's studying health, and he tells me all the time about what he has read, not as a matter of reporting on the text, but 'in the moment' when the particular subject comes up. For instance, he told Becca to sit up straighter because her posture was not good and it would cause her problems. Hm. I think my next task for him is to get Human Physiology prepared. I'll teach it to all of the kids, because they need to know how the body works (we're fearfully and wonderfully made). But my focus will be on Daniel, as I currently understand God's direction in it.
Time to correct Jon's Grammar, and teach Drew about amphibians....Off I go.
New dog - Mocha. She's a chocolate lab, and twice the size of Toby. With a curly tail, like Kita. We're going to call up Raina (who gave her to Josh) and have all the kids stand around the phone and chant (to the tune of 'we like to move it, move it'), "We like the Mocha, Mocha! We like the Mocha, Mocha!" That ought to make her laugh.
New computer. From Raina, too. Like we need another computer. But this one is Windows 98. Most of our old games for the computer are in this category and won't run on our newer computers. So now Andrew has a whole host of Pre-school through 6th grade games that we thought we'd be getting rid of. Science, math, reading, puzzles, creativity, coordination. All sorts of good stuff. Andrew is only a little more excited than Josh. AND, they can play the old Frogger. Be still my heart!
So what's on for today? Shoveling! Lots of shoveling.
Andrew gets to play Alphabet Bingo. And 7 Pieces - I don't think they make it anymore, but it's an awesome game. There are 7 pieces of hard, purple plastic, in traditional shapes (square, triangle, etc.). Andrew made a rabbit out of them yesterday. The biggest challenge? Make a square out of all the pieces. I believe it is Asian in origin, but don't quote me on that.
Probably no Science with Ted - too much snow.
So test on Module 11, 'Steve' (the name given to our Government book), Spelling, Grammar. We'll see how we do. Physics. Checkbook balancing on Microsoft Money (Daniel).
For Bible? I don't know - Becca's not here! Praying for something special for Andrew who wants to read the Bible every 5 minutes. (Not that I'm complaining, mind you - there could be much worse obsessions!) I'm leaning toward an introduction to Individuality, which he already has heard a lot of. Bible will be the only officially PA lesson we do today, although Government follows PA in the text.
Andrew's math lesson? He wanted to know how many days he has been alive. And he wants to learn about plants. Yesterday we looked at pictures of the life cycle of moss, ferns, flowers and trees. Since we just watched the Bee movie, he was particularly interested in how bees spread pollen. Today he wants to learn about frogs...off we go. He wants to explain the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses to our co-op...You know - I think he'll pull it off! He is currently talking a lot about writing computer games. Not sure if that's because we're setting up computers, or if that's a clue of his future.
I am studying 'Steve' to prepare for Monday's class. It's very interesting. The Political Principles of the Founders is the name of the section. Federalism, the different forms of a Republic, and our American form of Republicanism. Lots more. Tocqueville's view of the American 'experiment.' His view is worth quoting, and I may do that in my 'conscience' blog, because much of his amazement with our form of government had to do with that, from what I've seen so far.
I would really like to engage Daniel a little more in our lessons. He's very quiet and seems to be in his own world so much of the time. The subject that seems to fascinate him the most is Science. Right now he's studying health, and he tells me all the time about what he has read, not as a matter of reporting on the text, but 'in the moment' when the particular subject comes up. For instance, he told Becca to sit up straighter because her posture was not good and it would cause her problems. Hm. I think my next task for him is to get Human Physiology prepared. I'll teach it to all of the kids, because they need to know how the body works (we're fearfully and wonderfully made). But my focus will be on Daniel, as I currently understand God's direction in it.
Time to correct Jon's Grammar, and teach Drew about amphibians....Off I go.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
The Best Laid Plans...
Just a moment to sit - been running steady since early.
Our plans got way laid by the weather report. Spring snow up here can knock out the power and snow us in. Or out, if you happen to not make it home in time.
So! No book work this morning. Flash light check, fill water bottles (for the flushing of toilets) and tubs. Store run to make sure we have drinking water and anything else we might need for 3 days. Fire wood was offered, so we're picking some up this morning from them, since we're out, and the pellet stove doesn't work when the power is out. Laundry, ironing, dishes all have to be done now so that we have what we need.
It's 10:15 - ok, now we can get to school work for 3 of us. We'll have to unload the wood when the other 2 boys return. Becca went to the Bucholz so we don't have to drive her later.
We might be surprised and get only a dash of snow. But they're predicting 14 inches to 2 feet, depending on who you listen to. Spring snow is heavy, hence the power outage possibility. It is also slippery, so we don't drive in it. My husband lost his truck in the last freeze of last Spring. There is also a prediction of heavy winds through Friday.
So, then. Back to work.
Our plans got way laid by the weather report. Spring snow up here can knock out the power and snow us in. Or out, if you happen to not make it home in time.
So! No book work this morning. Flash light check, fill water bottles (for the flushing of toilets) and tubs. Store run to make sure we have drinking water and anything else we might need for 3 days. Fire wood was offered, so we're picking some up this morning from them, since we're out, and the pellet stove doesn't work when the power is out. Laundry, ironing, dishes all have to be done now so that we have what we need.
It's 10:15 - ok, now we can get to school work for 3 of us. We'll have to unload the wood when the other 2 boys return. Becca went to the Bucholz so we don't have to drive her later.
We might be surprised and get only a dash of snow. But they're predicting 14 inches to 2 feet, depending on who you listen to. Spring snow is heavy, hence the power outage possibility. It is also slippery, so we don't drive in it. My husband lost his truck in the last freeze of last Spring. There is also a prediction of heavy winds through Friday.
So, then. Back to work.
"Black" by Ted Dekker
I'd like to put in a plug for this unique book. I am nearly finished with Black. The next one is Red, and then White.
In Black, Mr. Dekker sets the stage for the Garden of Eden and the Fall. He does an excellent job at showing the contrast and the loss that was brought by the Fall is palpable. His portrayal of the Deceiver, Satan, is poignant. The tale is spun in such a way that I have nearly stood up in the middle of reading to cheer on the hero or to rail at the archenemy. It reminds me of the boy in the Never Ending Story and how he became part of the story.
I don't recommend the story for younger children, because it is a little scary. The demons are quite vivid and could cause night mares. It relates to the kind of portrayal that Peretti gives in his books. However, Heather, if you're reading this, I think Isaiah would love it.
I can't wait to pick up Red and find out how the Fall is 'fixed'.
In Black, Mr. Dekker sets the stage for the Garden of Eden and the Fall. He does an excellent job at showing the contrast and the loss that was brought by the Fall is palpable. His portrayal of the Deceiver, Satan, is poignant. The tale is spun in such a way that I have nearly stood up in the middle of reading to cheer on the hero or to rail at the archenemy. It reminds me of the boy in the Never Ending Story and how he became part of the story.
I don't recommend the story for younger children, because it is a little scary. The demons are quite vivid and could cause night mares. It relates to the kind of portrayal that Peretti gives in his books. However, Heather, if you're reading this, I think Isaiah would love it.
I can't wait to pick up Red and find out how the Fall is 'fixed'.
Teaching is so much fun!
Monday's class was cancelled - due to, I'm fairly certain, a prompting from the Holy Spirit. I kept thinking that I wanted to do class, but felt that I wasn't supposed to. Not having anything in particular to base that on, I waited until the last minute. By that time, my husband was staying home, having strained his back, 'big' snow was coming (we only got about 5 inches), and then I got a call from Georgia that I needed to spend the morning taking care of the medication fiasco that my mother was experiencing. So I spent the morning on the phone, the fax or email to try to help get her taken care of. I'm so frustrated with the medical community! The doctor put her on Zoloft, for depression (which I still need to research so we know what side affects to watch for) and the order was MIS-READ. So the packaging company is packaging it wrong, according to the original order and she's getting TWICE the dose she was supposed to. She's confused and disoriented and she even fell last week, and didn't break her fall. Fortunately she didn't break a bone. Or worse. When I called, the receptionist got on it right away and sent in new orders. However, because Mom's doctor has changed in the interim, the packaging company won't recognize the orders...you get the picture. So they are currently overdosing her because no one wants to take responsibility. Never mind that they MIS-READ the original orders and they aren't even following THAT! As they say about lawyers, 90% of the medical profession give the rest a bad name. Ok, no more ranting. Today she sees her new doctor and the new orders will be put through...
Tuesday's co-op was fun - I enjoy this link in the COC the most, I think. We began with Jesus' teaching on Government. I had a lesson plan all ready...wouldn't you know it, a child asked a question and we took a tangent, then another question or statement came up, and off we went again. So I only hit one point on my lesson plan. This is why I write outlines. I rarely write a solid lesson plan anymore - because I rarely follow it. Children are very perceptive and they ask the best questions! I like my lesson plans to be fueled by questions as well, and it's fun to see the gears working behind their eyes. The leading idea was met, in part, and will continue next week. Part of the lesson plan included a brief look at the Letter and the Spirit of the Law - thanks to my helper, Priscilla.
I'm really leaning toward having a Boston Tea Party event for this group. I think the boys would love it. Who doesn't like an opportunity to play act an event in History? Ok, well, some might not, I'll admit, but these boys will love it. Every year I like to have at least one event to get the students involved in the history. One year we did a Pilgrim play and had a wonderful artist (thank you very much, Bri!) paint a backdrop for the Mayflower. It was fun. We even invited the community to come and watch. This group is younger, though, and the details of the play would be cumbersome for them, unless we shortened it. Maybe next year, with Kim's permission, since she wrote the script. I am surrounded by a host of talented people! One year, I really want to do a New England Town Hall Meeting...I think the kids would really like that, too. Another one I'd like to do is a section of a Shakespeare play.
Next week, I'd like to begin reports - I've left a link on the website, "Patriots" to give some guidelines for what opportunities there are for study.
Today? Major book work! Apologia Science, Grammar, Math, Spelling, Reading, History & Geography. Whatever we can get to. First order of business? Bible and prayer. Ok, maybe breakfast is first...
Tuesday's co-op was fun - I enjoy this link in the COC the most, I think. We began with Jesus' teaching on Government. I had a lesson plan all ready...wouldn't you know it, a child asked a question and we took a tangent, then another question or statement came up, and off we went again. So I only hit one point on my lesson plan. This is why I write outlines. I rarely write a solid lesson plan anymore - because I rarely follow it. Children are very perceptive and they ask the best questions! I like my lesson plans to be fueled by questions as well, and it's fun to see the gears working behind their eyes. The leading idea was met, in part, and will continue next week. Part of the lesson plan included a brief look at the Letter and the Spirit of the Law - thanks to my helper, Priscilla.
I'm really leaning toward having a Boston Tea Party event for this group. I think the boys would love it. Who doesn't like an opportunity to play act an event in History? Ok, well, some might not, I'll admit, but these boys will love it. Every year I like to have at least one event to get the students involved in the history. One year we did a Pilgrim play and had a wonderful artist (thank you very much, Bri!) paint a backdrop for the Mayflower. It was fun. We even invited the community to come and watch. This group is younger, though, and the details of the play would be cumbersome for them, unless we shortened it. Maybe next year, with Kim's permission, since she wrote the script. I am surrounded by a host of talented people! One year, I really want to do a New England Town Hall Meeting...I think the kids would really like that, too. Another one I'd like to do is a section of a Shakespeare play.
Next week, I'd like to begin reports - I've left a link on the website, "Patriots" to give some guidelines for what opportunities there are for study.
Today? Major book work! Apologia Science, Grammar, Math, Spelling, Reading, History & Geography. Whatever we can get to. First order of business? Bible and prayer. Ok, maybe breakfast is first...
Friday, April 4, 2008
Friday, already????
Where does the time go? And why is the laundry never done?
Crazy week, but next week we're on track. Two of my children want to be baptized, so tomorrow we're meeting with a deacon. :-)
I'm having fun talking with my friend, Ted, about Liberty of Conscience (my other blog).
Much time taken up this week with driving here and there, and calling Georgia to handle my mother's medication, which is still not resolved.
Daddy took Becca to the Denver Zoo today for her birthday. It's becoming a yearly tradition, and she really looks forward to it.
We're behind in lessons, so we'll have to address them on Saturday, most likely. It seems that the more I have to do, the more I get done. How does that work, exactly?
I struggled with a sore throat again this week, so I'm a little slow, and feeling like I'm getting NOTHING done. Time to reveiw my vision!
Crazy week, but next week we're on track. Two of my children want to be baptized, so tomorrow we're meeting with a deacon. :-)
I'm having fun talking with my friend, Ted, about Liberty of Conscience (my other blog).
Much time taken up this week with driving here and there, and calling Georgia to handle my mother's medication, which is still not resolved.
Daddy took Becca to the Denver Zoo today for her birthday. It's becoming a yearly tradition, and she really looks forward to it.
We're behind in lessons, so we'll have to address them on Saturday, most likely. It seems that the more I have to do, the more I get done. How does that work, exactly?
I struggled with a sore throat again this week, so I'm a little slow, and feeling like I'm getting NOTHING done. Time to reveiw my vision!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Tuesday...
Well! Interesting day!
We went to coop and shared chili and cornbread. The kids had a blast seeing friends that we haven't seen in awhile. Daniel and Drew shared their reports, and so did Ivy. Topic of Moms' conversation? Asperger's! We have 2 in the group. Discipline for an Asperger's child is tricky at best. The object is to reach the child's heart - sometimes Asperger's looks like there IS no heart! It can be very frustrating and draining. My 13ds has shown so much maturity this year, in spite of some days when things are difficult. It takes time and the child's understanding that you want what is best for him/her.
Before coop I got a phone call from Georgia. They changed my mother's medication (without telling me) and now she is so confused that she goes to bed in the middle of the day because she thinks it's night. Argh! That's what I will do tomorrow morning - make calls to Georgia. I had a blessing though, from my Aunt Linda. She and my Uncle will drive my Mom out to CO, along with all of her things in June. I won't have to go out to GA and drive a UHaul back!
This afternoon I heard from Norma - what a wonderful surprise!
Then off to the chiropractor - I feel much better now, thank you very much!
Tomorrow we get a treat - we're going hiking with some friends (I hope it doesn't snow...it kind of looks like snow out there). Bri has a Physics class at 3:00 but he can drive himself (as long as there is no snow). We'll do our schoolwork in the afternoon, if there is time, but it's ok if we miss it tomorrow.
Then Thursday, Josh got a job at MOPS at our church, then has Physical Science along with Jon at 1:00 with our friend Ted.
Then a visit with Norma and Joseph - maybe youth group, too? Brian can drive Josh there, but not Joseph...
Had a God-sighting this week - I went to look at rooms for my mom when she moves out here, and they had a check for me. They forgot to give me back my deposit! The timing is quite interesting, since I'll need that for another deposit in June. :-)
My 5ds wants me to read the Bible to him every night now. And every night, after a verse here and there, he will put his hand on my arm and say "that's true, Mom!" And always, when Becca hears the Bible being read, she joins us.
Still haven't heard from Amy...
I posted the test for the Declaration principles on my website, in case it is of value to anyone. We've been having a fun conversation on the bibleprinciples elist about how to start and keep going with PA. What a wonderful bunch of ladies, full of wisdom! I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Between now and Thursday at 1:00, the two boys have to study for Science, and gather materials for the experiments. I think Josh still has to take the module test, too.
I need to study the Principle of Politics from 'Steve' tonight. Off to do that now! Dinner in 1/2 hour or so. No hubby tonight, but he's home tomorrow night.
It's a different week than I thought we'd have! Next week, a little more book time!
We went to coop and shared chili and cornbread. The kids had a blast seeing friends that we haven't seen in awhile. Daniel and Drew shared their reports, and so did Ivy. Topic of Moms' conversation? Asperger's! We have 2 in the group. Discipline for an Asperger's child is tricky at best. The object is to reach the child's heart - sometimes Asperger's looks like there IS no heart! It can be very frustrating and draining. My 13ds has shown so much maturity this year, in spite of some days when things are difficult. It takes time and the child's understanding that you want what is best for him/her.
Before coop I got a phone call from Georgia. They changed my mother's medication (without telling me) and now she is so confused that she goes to bed in the middle of the day because she thinks it's night. Argh! That's what I will do tomorrow morning - make calls to Georgia. I had a blessing though, from my Aunt Linda. She and my Uncle will drive my Mom out to CO, along with all of her things in June. I won't have to go out to GA and drive a UHaul back!
This afternoon I heard from Norma - what a wonderful surprise!
Then off to the chiropractor - I feel much better now, thank you very much!
Tomorrow we get a treat - we're going hiking with some friends (I hope it doesn't snow...it kind of looks like snow out there). Bri has a Physics class at 3:00 but he can drive himself (as long as there is no snow). We'll do our schoolwork in the afternoon, if there is time, but it's ok if we miss it tomorrow.
Then Thursday, Josh got a job at MOPS at our church, then has Physical Science along with Jon at 1:00 with our friend Ted.
Then a visit with Norma and Joseph - maybe youth group, too? Brian can drive Josh there, but not Joseph...
Had a God-sighting this week - I went to look at rooms for my mom when she moves out here, and they had a check for me. They forgot to give me back my deposit! The timing is quite interesting, since I'll need that for another deposit in June. :-)
My 5ds wants me to read the Bible to him every night now. And every night, after a verse here and there, he will put his hand on my arm and say "that's true, Mom!" And always, when Becca hears the Bible being read, she joins us.
Still haven't heard from Amy...
I posted the test for the Declaration principles on my website, in case it is of value to anyone. We've been having a fun conversation on the bibleprinciples elist about how to start and keep going with PA. What a wonderful bunch of ladies, full of wisdom! I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Between now and Thursday at 1:00, the two boys have to study for Science, and gather materials for the experiments. I think Josh still has to take the module test, too.
I need to study the Principle of Politics from 'Steve' tonight. Off to do that now! Dinner in 1/2 hour or so. No hubby tonight, but he's home tomorrow night.
It's a different week than I thought we'd have! Next week, a little more book time!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)