Families Are Too Crazy Busy!

And speaking of busyness...
After yesterday's post entitled, "Slow Down This Summer," you're really going to think I've gotten up on my soapbox today.  But, I do think families are way too busy these days.  Don't you agree?


Lest you think I'm advocating slothfulness, please read this (one of my earlier posts), entitled "Work is Not a 4-letter Word."  I really don't think it's good old-fashioned work which is keeping most families too busy these days.  No, it's ...well:
Programs.  Lessons.  Appointments.
Friends.  Practices.  Part-time Jobs.
Games.  Errands.  Parties and Plays.
To name a few.


"Ode to The Busy Family"
(We Have Too Many Choices,
Though Some Should Be No-brainers):
Wrestling, Racquetball, Gymnastics and Ballet
Basketball, Baseball, Softball, and Pair-Skating?
Football,  Soccer, Volleyball and Hockey,
I haven't listed half the sports, and yet there's way too many!


Swimming, Diving, Track and Field, and Tennis,
It's impossible to list them all, I'm sure that I will miss.
Judo, Karate, dare I mention Yoga, too:
Is there really nothing that the Christian Homeschooler won't do?


If one instrument is good, then three must be better!
Clarinet, Trumpet, Flute and Alto Sax,
Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar, and Ukelele!
Piano, Violin, Cello, Bass and French Horn
Don't forget the drums--you can drive your mom crazy!


I'm writing this to the Homeschooling Mom, but it starts way earlier than school-age!  You set your children up to expect a certain rhythm in life from a very young age.


Do you feel like you're spending your life behind the wheel of your vehicle?  Or maybe getting in and out of it!  Does your baby or toddler usually nap in his/her carseat?  Do the drive-through employees at your favorite fast-food restaurant greet you like an old friend and call you by name?  Do you wonder why they call it Homeschooling? As a Homeschool mom, have you mastered the art of "School on the Road"?  Are you tired of it all yet?


Beware:

• Of commitments to more than one night a week for children up until junior high and even after that.
• Of commitments which are individual and split your family up, making you, your husband, and your children all go in different directions.
• Of anything that keeps you from sitting down together for supper.

You don't need it.  The family is being destroyed.  By good things.  Say "No."  Make Hard Choices.


Now, what will you do with all that TIME you'll now have at Home Together?!


Helpful Hints
Learn skills:  Build something, repair, make or refinish.
Paint, upkeep your home, design and put in Landscaping

Work Together as a Family

Hobbies that Create Something Useful:
Cooking, Sewing, Knitting, and Crocheting
Making Greeting Cards, Handwork and Gardening


Games That Involve, or can be played by, all ages (And/or Teach):
Mini golf, Croquet, Badminton, Bowling


Board Games that Involve, or can be played by, all ages:
Monopoly, Game of Life, Parcheesi, Uno, Sorry, Chutes and Ladders, Yahtzee


Trend Games:
Matching game
States and Capitals


Outside Group Games:
Bocce Ball, Flashlight Tag


Activities:
Biking, Walking


Say "No" to a lot of "good things" and get to know your family again.  Get to know your Lord again.  Find out what He wants your family to be doing.  Don't sacrifice the "best" on the altar of "good."

P.S.  Rereading my post this morning, I realize that it is incomplete, in the sense that I included not a word from The Word.  Also, to some of you, it may sound terribly out of touch, and "anti-sports"--well, I am pretty much against sports, especially team sports, as I think they've robbed families and not given them very much back.  But, I do see a need for less "ranting" on my part, and more "real instruction," so I will try to give a more Biblical answer to this issue some time in the near future.

What I Am Doing Now

I decided to post one of those "What I Am Doing Now" posts, but with a twist.  For me, January is a month that's a mix.  First, we live in Minnesota, so it can be gray and very cold, and I used to get somewhat depressed during January, being all cooped up, and not seeing the sun.  But I have realized in recent years that January is one of two months in the year--the other is July--when I have almost nothing on my calendar, and if I don't recognize that and use the month well, I've missed a golden opportunity! 


I now look at January as though I'm sitting at the top of the roller coaster of the year.  I'm about to go down and things are going to pick up speed rapidly!!  So, in January, at the top, I try to look ahead and see into the distance, and prepare.  Having to stay at home has its advantages:  it saves a lot of money on gas! And, you can get a lot done when you stay home.  Here are some of the things I'm preparing for, and questions I'm asking myself to try to be on top of things when spring comes!

• Figure out Baby gifts--I know of about half a dozen babies being born in the next few months, so I'll be on the lookout for sales on baby clothes, both boys and girls, and stock up my gift shelf. I usually choose 12 months or older. I also love to give great children's books, which I already have on hand.
• Graduation and wedding gifts and cards--there are always quite a few of these.  I have already stocked up on wedding gifts by ordering from Mikasa's online clearance site, when they had free shipping, and I got some really nice things for great prices.  So, now for grad cards and gifts. 

Will I make cards by hand, by computer, or buy them? I do have stamps, but I recently purchased a year's membership to American Greetings, so I can make printable cards.  It's really cool, because I can edit the cards, change the font, add pictures, personalize the card, and even rewrite some of the writing inside, if I want to!  Lots of things you can print, like invitations, too.  With a box of parchment paper, and a box of greeting card sized envelopes, which I already have, I'm set.  So, I'll probably do that.
Will I give money (much easier) or find something inexpensive, but special, that will actually be cheaper and more personal than cash? I'll keep my eyes open online.

• Packing away all the Christmas decorations

(Yes, I'm still doing that--I like to leave them up, except for the tree, way into January, because I love them! and they add color to my home), I'm trying to see if there are areas that need decluttering, or maybe it's easier to see and clean an area now--like the cloth on top of the piano and the valance over the window--because I've removed everything.

• Cleaning and DeCluttering

That Kitchen Pantry cupboard needs to be cleaned out once a year--maybe now?
Clear off the top of my cupboards and clean what's up there? Nothing attractive about an inch of dust!

• Year-end Financial and Budget

Put a new checkbook register in my checkbook, and print out all the statements to have in one place.
Finish checking off in the checkbook all the checks that have cleared, and look for any discrepancies. My husband takes care of the finances, but he has me pay the bills, and carry the checkbook.  He took care of all the financial over Christmas vacation, but I just like every box checked and to have a feeling that I kind of am on top of things:)

• Make a Record of Expenditures in a Spreadsheet

Become more responsible with my spending, and start a spreadsheet to record daily spending, especially in certain areas, where discretionary spending, though within acceptable limits, could be less.
Though we studied it in school with the kids, Kelsey never had to really do her own budget herself, so I'm having her make a spreadsheet, too, to keep track of spending and probably a budget later.
My husband doesn't like to keep track of every penny in areas such as spending on clothes--I'm not a big spender in this area, so he doesn't feel he needs to--but I really think it would be good to know just how much I am spending.  This is difficult to track, because it gets lumped in with so many other purchases on the credit card, and our kids buy much, if not all, of their own clothes.  So, I made a spreadsheet with this and other categories where I think we could cut some spending, and I will try to figure it out.  Could I save money in this or any other area?

• Thinking about my spending habits

One of the things about good habits is that you don't have to keep track of what you're doing as carefully! You just do the same thing as you've been doing, and you stay within budget.  However, checking to see if I could do better is something I have a little more time to do in January.

• Hospitality

Are there people that we've promised we'd have over, and haven't yet?  Call them, and set up a time.

• Books I Meant to Read?

Are there books that I wanted to read and didn't get to?  I really like to fuel my faith at this time of the year.  It helps to stave off the depression and discouragement from the weather and lack of sun.  I picked up an old book that I'd read before and that God really used in my life a few years ago, "Echoing and ReEchoing" by Faye Huntington, and have started reading it again when I have a few minutes.  She co-authored many books with Isabella Alden ("Pansy"), whose writing I love, but this is a book she wrote by herself. 


You can get other great reading for wintery months, or summertime reading, for that matter, at the Keepers of the Faith website (it's .com, not .net, or you'll get something totally different!) and then click on books.  Check out their site for all kinds of activities, and teaching skills kits, etc., to complement your family's homeschooling.
So, that's what I'm doing now.  I hope you're not too bored by my list!


So......what do you do when the weather forces you inside for awhile?

Timely Tips on Tuesday: Trip Planning (Part 3)

Are you thinking, "How can there be any more to say about her trip planning??"  I completely understand.  I'm kind of surprised there is anything more to say, too:)  But here are some stray thoughts of a few more things that I have on my "To Do" list (very random):

• Update our will:) I don't think we're going to get it done, but I'd sure like to
• Buy walking shoes and break them in (I got some at Clarks ON SALE! and they're really comfortable and I'm so excited I got them on sale)
• Buy new underwear for everyone:) (got that done, too; fall is a good time to do this, as it's usually on sale)
• Get out the fall clothes and buy some new items for family members (Jerry's done, and I just have a little left to get for myself)
• Contact friends that we plan to stop and see (this is done)
• Research on NCFIC on their Church Network page and find churches to attend (almost done)

1. I am so thankful that my husband believes in being in church. No matter what. Every Sunday. No matter where he is!  Worshiping the Lord, not forsaking the assembling of the believers together.  He's even willing to contact people we've never met in another state and attend their Home Church! (That part is really so not like him.  Who are you, and what have you done with my husband)
2. Visiting other churches while on vacation is a fun way to see how other Christians do church.
3. Advantage:  You get to meet new "brothers and sisters in Christ" all over the country and world!

• Find someone to check in on your house while you're away and give them a duplicate key.  (Also, ask someone to take in your mail, and paper; or cancel it for the time you're away.)
• Read up on the area you're going to be visiting.  Find out about festivals or special events scheduled for the time you'll be there; find out what famous people are from the area, any historic sites, etc.
• Check your camera, camcorder, equipment--need to update, get any accessories, etc.?
• Clean and declutter your home.  ("What if I die and someone has to come in and see it like this??!!!")  What can I say--I really do feel compelled to clean up my house before I leave, and there's this inner "Aaagghh!" feeling right now because it's not in the condition that I would like to have someone come in and see it in--even someone just checking on the house. (Guess I'd better move that up on my list or forget about it!)
• Pray and start to look forward to going and having a really good time!

So, did I leave anything out?  Any suggestions for me before I go?

Timely Tips on Tuesday: Trip Planning 101

As I've said on more than one occasion, I Love To Travel! I love to fly, drive away, see new places, see new faces.  I subscribe to the old saying, "A stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet!"  So is a strange land!  For me, part of the excitement of travel is the anticipation of all that we will experience!  Dreaming, researching, discovering... brochures, tour books, and maps all hold fascination for me!  I love the challenge (and my husband trusts me with the responsibility) of planning a trip which will excite each family member and cause them to light up with joy.  I am thrilled to gaze at photos of delightfully decorated rooms in historic homes, now serving as Bed and Breakfasts, and imagine myself staying there! I may never live in a home built a hundred or more years ago, but for a day or two, I can imagine I do!   Deciding between an array of alternatives--places to go, people to see, things to do--what fun it is!  (Unless there are too many altenatives:)  But, normally, for me, planning is pure pleasure!  So, I thought I would share with you my planning procedure. Here is part 1 of how I went about planning our trip to Washington, DC.

Beginning to Plan

• Decide where you're going
• Decide how you're going (fly or drive)

1. Though our destination was Washington, DC, it was a big decision how we would get there!  3 of us wanted to fly, and I had been saving the miles until we had enough to cover the trip, but 1 of us wanted to drive, and that one was very important.  Discussion continued.

• Decide approximately when you're going

1. My husband chose fall.  I looked at the calendar and wanted as much time to plan as possible, feeling very unready, but not wanting it to get really cold, or to be past the beautiful fall colors.  I had a good weather experience going out east in late September/early October on our last trip.  I thought there'd be less crowds in October.  Leave on a Friday, return on a Saturday or Sunday.  Stay 2 weeks. I tentatively chose my dates based on these considerations.  This, too, could be changed, if necessary, as long as we hadn't made any reservations.  I was rewarded in my choice when I read that October was one of the three best months to travel to DC. 

Both of these decisions may change, but you need to have a foundation to begin.
As I began my planning, and being AAA members, I picked up Tourbooks for the area we'd be sightseeing mostly in, and one of the surrounding areas, which hadn't been decided on yet.  I also happened on some maps of the city of Washington, and the Mall, at Barnes and Noble, which I bought.
I stopped in at my local library and checked out their shelves.  I found Fodor's travel book to the area and another gem called, "Washington with Kids" and checked them out.
There were way too many things to do and see for us to see them all! So, I asked the family members to give me their top 3 "must see or must do" choices, since there appeared to be two or three times what we'd have time to see in the area.  (This wasn't very successful early on, but the priorities have been forthcoming as time has passed.)
I started looking at flights, hotels, and rental vehicles online, and getting an idea of costs.
The Planning had begun!

Step 2 in Planning a Trip

• I started a notebook.

1. For me, keeping all the information organized and being able to easily and quickly find the results of my research was extremely important.  I am a notebook kind of gal.  If you prefer keeping your information on the computer, then a file, files or spreadsheet will work well.  I did bookmark many a webpage.
2. In my notebook I included a page for Estimating Expenses, Things To Do Before We Go, Attractions To See While We're There, a makeshift Calendar which covered the days of the vacation, and a page that had contact and other information for each of the places I researched (including the hours a certain museum was open, phone/email, cost to get in, any pertinent information) and where I'd gotten that information (e.g. Tourbook, page 241) so I could find it again.
3. So, I had a page in my notebook for "Things To Do Before We Leave" and included on it things like: Buy new walking shoes and break them in; see our lawyer and update our will:); ask someone to check on our house.  "Things To Do While We're There" included places I already knew about, such as Mt. Vernon (George Washington's Home) but was added to as I discovered new ideas.  This was a long list, and not written in stone.  Later I would prioritize and rate by most-wanted-to-see.  I grouped the items on "Things To Do While We're There" by location, as much as possible.  Doing a number of things in one location would save us time, and save our feet and energy.

• I prioritized the Planning

1. As I read, I kept on seeing encouragements to make reservations for tours, and contact your Congressman, 1-6 months in advance!  I put it on my list of things to do to contact my congressman as soon as I could.
2. I also knew it was important to get flights booked, and hotels reserved.
3. I did research online to find out how long it would take to drive to the area.  Then, as we still had not decided whether to drive or fly, I made two itineraries, one if we drove and one if we flew. We would have 3-4 less days to sightsee in DC if we drove, but if we drove, we could drive through and possibly see things in areas we had not travelled to before. (I quickly realized we had to make the decision whether to fly or drive! As my husband really wanted to drive, I quickly submitted--I really wanted to fly, so the quickness and completeness with which I submitted was definitely a work of the Holy Spirit, and one of those times when you have to look past your husband and see God leading through him, and say, Ok, Lord, there's some reason we're not supposed to fly.  I don't know what it is, but You do, and so, I will accept that.)

Researching

So, Where to stay, What to drive, and Contacting my Congressman were my top priorities.
Once having decided to drive, and knowing how long it would take, I began checking car rentals.  This was another shocking experience!  It was going to cost a lot of money to rent a vehicle to drive that far for that long. I wasn't finding any good news online about car rental or hotel costs. (It's really expensive to stay in DC!) If I had found any hotels or car rental information that sounded good, I would have recorded that in my notebook.  This was becoming serious, though.  I continued to report my findings to my husband, (and my kids) and we discussed the options.

All the way through this process I was praying.  Now, I was praying hard! "Lord, I can't get this all done! There're too many options! What do You want us to do: fly or drive? Where do You want us to stay? It's so expensive, Lord. Please help us find exactly where You want us to stay, and do what You want us to do."

I have found from planning previous trips that I have an objective in taking a particular vacation, but God has an objective, as well.  His objective includes people we will meet that we have no idea about, and "chance happenings" which I could not possibly plan: people we are to tell about Him, situations into which He desires us to bring the presence of the Holy Spirit, people He wants us to pray with and for, and experiences which He will use to mold us and direct us in our future.  I must lay my plans, goals, desires, and objectives in His Hands if I and my family are to be where He wants us, accomplishing His objectives on this trip.

Timely Tips on Tuesday: Homeschool Planning, Tuesday Tag-Along and Oh, yeah, It's My Birthday!

I'm posting a normal post, but will check in later after I celebrate:) to see if you were here!!  Will you give me the gift of getting to know you, by following?  Thanks so much for celebrating with me today!

Kelsey and I had the enjoyment and privilege of visiting with our friend recently, a young mom who happens to be from India.  She cooked a wonderful Indian meal for us for lunch.  What a joy to be with her and her children.  She is a Homeschooling mom and wanted me to help her with planning for her school year.

(Though I no longer Homeschool because my children have graduated, I will speak in the present tense about the tools and planning which were in place when I was Homeschooling.)

I showed her my school notebooks (one for each year), and my goal sheets for the year, and my weekly schedule, and other forms which help me:  my Master Grocery List and Menu Plan (monthly).  Though I don't rigidly follow my schedule, it is an indispensable tool for planning the school year.  Perhaps you've already begun your school year, but if you haven't thought about your goals in light of what God wants you to accomplish this year, and what character He wants to build or work on in your lives as a family and individual, then I would take a step back, and pray about that. Set some goals, and tweak your schedule, or rewrite it to reflect what the Lord wants for you this year. Plan ways to accomplish the goals you've set. (For example, if your husband wants your family to be serving others more, plan a weekly community service project, or time of ministry--see the ideas below.)  Integrate your goals into your assignments.  This is not as difficult as it sounds.  Let me show you!  If you're working on the character quality of humility, you could plan for that word to be part of your Language Arts program by looking up the meaning, writing out Bible verses relating to it (in your best penmanship), looking up synonyms for humility.  The older children could write a paper on, or read about, someone in history who exhibited this character quality, or your whole family could study someone in the Bible who was exceptionally humble.  In our Homeschool we would work on certain character traits each month and evaluate our children in those areas at the end of the month.  You see how you can integrate God's goals for your family into your school, and weekly schedule and assignments.  Then set up periodic "check points" when you'll evaluate how you're doing.  Perhaps you'll set new character goals, as we did.  Meet with each child at those times, and have them evaluate themselves on the character trait(s) they've been working on.  Give praise.  Write down the praise and progress that's been achieved.  If there are recommendations for the future, write them down as well.  Keep good records of what you've done in your school.  We made out a monthly report on what was accomplished academically, but I kept a daily notebook, with assignments for each child, as well.  Write a list of the books you've read, adding to it whenever you take books out from the library, or listen to a book on tape, or read as a family.  Record the places you've been, the pages in the textbook completed, the skills learned or practiced, etc.  You'll be amazed at how much you've accomplished!  No matter how you do it, just make sure to record your daily work--you will be greatly encouraged when you look back at all you've done!

I told her to do these things (I am adding some, so if  you're reading this, Vijaya, here's more to think about!):

• Pray (First and foremost, pray and ask the Lord what He wants for your year!)
• Set goals for each child in the following areas:

1. Spiritual:  For example: Read through the Bible in a year; or, memorize Psalm 23; or, memorize specific salvation verses to use in witnessing ("Romans Road" verses).
2. Academic (list each subject area, and write a goal, even if it's just to "complete the book")
3. Skills (these might be anything from learning to tie your shoe to learning to type 45 wpm with 1 error, to learning to keep your room clean on a regular basis.  Make the goals specific, and measurable.  "Be able to type 45 wpm with only 1 error" is measurable, while "learn to type faster" is not.)
4. Community Service (helping in your community or ministering: delivering Meals on Wheels, helping distribute Fare For All, serving at the Local Food Shelf, Singing at a Nursing Home, helping at Operation Christmas Child--these are all things which our family has done.  Your family may also enjoy helping at a Gospel Mission:  distributing meals to the homeless, helping with Bible studies, or music, etc.)
5. Character Goals: e.g. humility, patience, punctuality, orderliness, obedience, respect, discernment
6. Mental:  e.g. Books to Read: How many and which ones
7. Physical:  this doesn't have to be sports related, but can be
8. Hospitality:  Families to Have Over; how you will reach out and when
9. Ministry:  What will your family be involved in and how will your children serve

• Once you have your goals set, write out a General Weekly Schedule (use pencil, you will be erasing a lot, until you find what works best on paper--then you will be tweaking as you actually live it out!)

1. On your weekly list include everything, but only in general terms. "Morning List" for me means getting up, making my bed, washing my face, brushing my teeth, showering, doing my hair, etc. Quiet Time and Family Devotions mean time with the Lord in Bible and prayer, both as a family and alone.
2. Plan your weekly schedule to accomplish your goals:  if you have a goal of weekly hospitality, and want to invite a family from church over for dinner each week, then decide when and put it on the schedule. You may decide to do it at a different time, but the time is slotted for it in your week.
3. Place each thing on the schedule so your goals are accomplished naturally. If you're having people over on Sundays, now you know you will have to schedule the cleaning and grocery shopping to be done before the weekend.
4. Write down the most important things first, such as time in the morning with the Lord, and also, the things which are unchanging, such as piano lessons, and church services.
5. Remember Titus 2 instructs us to be "keepers at home," so plan most of your time to be there.
6. Put on the schedule your cleaning, and cooking time, and grocery-shopping, as well as your school subjects (Math, Language Arts, Science, etc.), and blocks of time to do them.
7. Plan for the preparation time needed to live and manage well.  Place on your weekly schedule a time for school planning, and time for your family to spend together just talking or being together, doing nothing special.  Plan when you will buy the birthday, shower and anniversary cards and gifts, etc.  Think ahead seasonally: is there a time on your weekly schedule for buying Christmas presents?  Do you have a time written down on  your weekly schedule for planning and thinking: make sure there's enough "margin" in your schedule for projects that will need to be done, whether it's fall cleaning, or Christmas shopping, or doing the crafts you love, like scrapbooking. Put it on your weekly schedule.)

• You can make a small child a chart with pictures or drawings of what they're to do, and have them put stickers on when they complete; make it colorful and teach them how to follow a schedule.

• Make a Master Grocery List and a Sample Monthly Menu (very flexible) on the computer (excel sheets)
• Don't be afraid to tweak this schedule as time goes by:  it is a tool to serve you

Did I overwhelm her?  Probably.  I realized as I was telling her these things, that being a "keeper at home" and following order and schedule in our homes, tells and teaches our children a million things, including:

• That God is a God of order
• How a wife is supposed to treat a husband
• How a family acts, and what it means to be one
• How to problem-solve, as a Christian
• As we pray and ask Him for guidance, they, (and we) learn that everything we do is in dependence on God; we are not acting in our own strength or wisdom.
• As we begin our day with the Lord and commit it to Him, they learn that everything we do is for His glory and in response to His commands or instruction.
• That God gives each family goals and purposes to accomplish and how they order their home and lives is a reflection of that: how we schedule and plan and carry out His purposes for our family may be different from another Christian family's, but should still be orderly, exhibit peace, showing God's love to others--and there are certain commands and instructions which will cause all of us to look somewhat the same.   Because we are sisters and brothers in Christ--there will be a family resemblance.
And a myriad of other lessons about life are taught without saying a word!  Just by being a "Keeper at Home," loving your husband and loving your children.

Psst! It's not only Tuesday Tag-Along......it's my Birthday:) If you want to make my day even more special, leave me a comment and follow!  Hope you have a wonderful day!

Timely Tips on Tuesday: Heart of the Matter Online Conference

This Conference sounds really good!
(And it's A Homeschool Conference You Can Attend

in Your Jammies!)

All you need is a computer, internet access and speakers!

Heart of the Matter Online Conference 

is Coming August 9-13, 2010!

Click on the link above to go to the registration page!

Register Now! Starts in 1 Week!

A Few of the Included Topics for This Year's Conference are:

• Being Salt and Light Families
• Christian Homeschool Success in High School
• Homeschoolers--Ordinary World Changers

and

• Quiet Time for Mother--How To Find Rest

Fantastic Homeschooling Websites

Hello Friends!
 I just found some great links for you Homeschoolers and those thinking about Homeschooling!

Important note, though:  No matter what age your children are, or even *if* you have children, there is something on one of these sites for you!

The first website I have to recommend to you today is Design Your Homeschool. It is History-based and emphasizes the use of lots of "living books" ("living books" is defined by Carole Seid, of "Teaching History through Language Arts" fame, as a book that your kids beg you to read "just one more"--page, chapter, etc.)  This is similar to the way that we Homeschooled, but I will save that for a later post.

Design Your Homeschool

I totally believe in the premise that each family is unique, and therefore their Homeschool will be different from everyone else's to a degree.  So, this site helps you develop your individual approach.  Having said that, I also believe, as this site encourages, that "living books" and some of the approaches and methods of Charlotte Mason are valuable, such as reading living books, followed by "narration" by the child (where the child is retelling the story back to you).

What I liked about this site:
Its Biblical emphasis
Encouragement to use "living books" and the library
Many Creation resources (such as Answers in Genesis/Ken Ham books)
Much recommended curriculum which I recognized as being excellent
An encouragement to Homeschoolers to set goals and know why you were doing what you were doing, and tailor-make your teaching to your children and your family.

When you go to this site, get a cup of coffee or tea, because there's a ton of stuff and links to look at!  Some of what you will find at this site:
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Begin and how to design your Homeschool. Here is one of the most important quotes from this site, and one I absolutely agree with!

"Step Two is choosing your Course of Study or Curriculum. Perhaps, the first thing you have thought about after making the decision to homeschool is, "What Curriculum do I buy?" If you want to know how to start homeschooling, you need to take it more slowly than that. You will make curriculum decisions based on what your goals are."

I felt like she really holds your hand (a good thing when you're starting out and perhaps have some fear and trepidation) and helps you, without telling you how you *have* to do it.  I really liked that.  There is also a Q & A Forum, and opportunity to ask her questions.
Curriculum recommendations in all the subjects (I've not checked these out)
Free printables including: Copywork divided by age group (both tracing and writing/with lines/ Bible verses), Dolch sight words list, Homeschool Planner Pages, and more.
Organization tips
Links to Homeschool Resources

I loved what I saw of this site!

Keepers of the Faith

Ok, what can I say...hmmm...this is one of the best links I can give you to books that will change your life as a Christian and that of your children. You think I'm exaggerating? Try them out, read some articles, read some books--Then write me and let me know how it's changed your life:)!
(Please tell them I sent you:)

What I like about this site:
Its firm emphasis on Biblical character!
The book reviews and articles on how to evaluate reading material (which will convict you--be warned!)
The Keepers of the Faith and Contenders for the Faith program
The Emphasis on Skill-building, with help and resources on how to teach skills to your children
The Books!!! (Books which have become dear friends to me, which were introduced to me by this site, e.g. Isabella Alden books)

I am very excited about these websites and believe they will be of great help to you!  I hope you'll be as excited about them as I am!  Let me know what you think!

Wendy's "Helpful Hints", (Part 3): Timely Tips on Tuesday

First Aid and Meds Storage,
Address Book Organization,
Library Materials Record-keeping,
and Sundry Other Items
My apologies for the length of this one, but it's jam-packed with "Helpful Hints" and it's the last of the three.
(Click here to read "Helpful Hints" Part 1, and "Helpful Hints" Part 2)

22. Keep a box (a shoebox, tackle box--various sizes are available--or a Rubbermaid container work well) in the bathroom cupboard (or higher up if you have small children) with common medicinal products which you use, such as Tylenol/aspirin/Advil, cough drops/cough medicine, medicine droppers, medicine dispensers, different kinds of thermometers (labeled), etc.

23. Keep a properly stocked first aid kit near the main bathroom (you can go the Red Cross website for info on what to have on hand) with supplies such as assorted kinds and sizes of band aids, salves, ointments, gauze and tape, ipecac and the poison control center’s #; also keep an ice pack in the freezer and an ace bandage and heating pad on the shelf with your first aid kit.

24. After you no longer have small children in the house, hang on to that small wooden stool they used and store it in the bathroom closet or cupboard for guests with small children and your (present or future) grandchildren.

25. Keep your bathroom bag packed with travel size toiletries and supplies, to make packing for an emergency or a special getaway quick and easy. Keep it, and an overnight bag, on a shelf in your bedroom closet.


26. Use a large cloth bag to carry library books back and forth to the library (click the link to read "Going to the Library") and when you bring library books home from the library, always put them in the same place: a large basket on the floor of the living room, or one shelf of the bookshelf works well. Train your children to always return the books there when they’re done looking at them. Record all materials checked out in a log for this purpose (write the date due both on this log and books due on that date on your calendar) before you leave the library. (If you don't get the books recorded before you leave the library, don't allow anyone to look at any of the materials until you have done this once at home.)

 

I know many of you rely on the online library's site for a report of checked-out materials and their due dates. If you like this method, may I encourage you to also make a separate spreadsheet itemizing the materials you've checked out? Some advantages:

• Being able to look back at a record of all the books you've read, for years.
• Knowing the title and author, and library where it's located, of that great book you read two (or five) years ago.
• Knowing, and tracking, how much you're spending in fines each year!
• The ability to recommend, and give a printed copy, of good materials on a given subject.

Limit the number of items each child may check out (keep it consistent) and let them know what this number is—increase the number with increased age/or responsibility shown. Require that the child pay out of his own money (or if he is too young, he can do "jobs" for you to pay off his debt) for any materials lost, damaged or overdue.

27. When you go with your children to the library, or any such public building, for that manner, clearly spell out what behavior is expected and before entering the building, stop at the door and remind them (“Ok, no running—walk—speak in a whisper, stay by me/or sit at this table/stay in this area (etc.)” and tell them in a calm, but firm, voice, what to expect if they disobey: “If you disobey I will take you into the bathroom and spank you and you will not be able to check out any books” etc. (If you're thinking I'm a "mean" mother, please remember that the tone and demeaner is loving, but firm, and this is clearly the example God used with His children: If you obey Me, you'll be blessed, if you don't, these are the dire consequences. You choose.) Occasionally, without warning, reward good behavior with a "treat," however, the reward of good behavior is that you all enjoy a wonderful time together as a family at the library, being together. The reward is relational, and intrinsic. Do not allow them to ask for a reward. If they ask (this is to beg) then they automatically don't get the reward, even if you were planning on giving one. Let them know this. Then follow through exactly as you said. Library visits will be one of your most enjoyable and anticipated activities together!

28. Before a young person may get their drivers license (or permit), make a requirement for them to memorize and recite a whole book of the Bible (James is good because it is filled with wisdom—or selected chapters of Proverbs.)

29. If you have a credit card: record your purchases on a log sheet (kept in your purse or notebook) just as you would when writing a check and write a memo to indicate what the purchase was for, such as “clothes-W(endy)” or “gas” or “entertainment/restaurant.”

30. If you buy things at home parties, such as Pampered Chef or Tupperware, keep the receipts, along with a current catalog, in a two-pocket folder on a shelf by your computer. This makes it easy to make online orders, or email your hostess or consultant about a particular item or order. Also keep the product care and use cards there, and staple or paper-clip the consultant’s business card to the folder. If you have hosted a party, keep all the information relating to your last party: invitation list, addresses, phone numbers, whether the invitee came and/or made an order, the food you served, etc. This will simplify things the next time you want to have a party, and allow you to particularly invite those who enjoy attending these events.

31. Keep a “Master Address Book” with the names and addresses of everyone you know and update this every 5-10 years. Store this Master List on a shelf in a cupboard of your kitchen, with other Directories. When you are unfamiliar with how to get to a person's house, keep directions on a sticky note by the entry for that person in the Master Address book. When they move, all you have to do is throw away the note. Also, when visiting the person, you can take the sticky note with you to help you get there, and return it to the Master Address Book when you return home. You will also be able to make any changes to the directions, or clarification needed, as you're driving there.

32. Other Address Lists: Keep a separate Christmas Card address list, noting whether you sent a card/letter/photo and have a check-off box for each year. Keep this in your Christmas Planning Notebook (click on the link to read about "Christmas Organized" Planning Forms, etc.). In the notebook you carry with you, keep a reduced-size copy of the church directory, and your most-used addresses and phone numbers. If the directions are short, and not likely to change, write them right by the person’s address, otherwise use the system from tip #31.

33. Do your cleaning each week on a schedule spread out over several days so it’s not so overwhelming. Assign the same child the same job for a period of time; then you know who to praise when it is done well, and who to blame when it’s not:) and they will get more skilled at it because they get to practice doing it often. Once each child has been trained in each job, if one child especially likes one particular job, make it his, but don't allow the favorite/least favorite job to always fall to the same child.

Timely Tips on Tuesday: Wendy's Helpful Hints, Part 2

Organization of Information,
Record-keeping and Planning Helps
and Storage of Extra Supplies
This is a continuation of ideas--Helpful Hints, part 2: A downloading of my brain and "What's Worked For Me."  I hope that you can make sense of my explanations and maybe that some of the ideas will help you.  Sometimes the simplest idea has been for me a lifesaver. An idea that "Works" takes me from feeling like a failure to feeling like a success in a moment. The littlest idea can make so much difference, don't you think?  So, here you go:

11. Keep a record of Hospitality Received: record the date, hostess gift given, thank you sent, return invitation extended.

12. Keep “like” things stored together. For instance, all recipe books on 2 shelves of the bookshelf nearest the kitchen; extra household supplies in the cupboard in the hall: Recipe books/recipes; photos/scrapbooking supplies; paper products (paper plates, napkins, cups, plastic silverware); extra household supplies (paper towels, toilet paper, light bulbs, batteries).

13. Place a phone message notebook by the phone with a pen attached: record the date and time along with the message and who it is for. (The Person Phoned can put a check mark by the message when they have read it.)

14. Keep the Church Directory, phone tree/prayer chain and schedule for serving responsibilities on the inside of the nearest cupboard by the phone in the kitchen.

15. Write on a notepad on the fridge items you run out of and transfer this list to your Master Grocery List when you’re ready to go to the grocery store.

16. Make your menu plan for two weeks (one at a minimum), considering any hospitality events you’re planning, potluck dishes or meals you’ll be making for others, and make your grocery list from your menu plans.  List the recipe, where it can be found, and its page number on the bottom of your grocery list. This helps in the event that you aren’t able to get all of the ingredients; you’ll know what dish you needed the ingredient for and be able to adjust your plans.

17. Keep receipts from stores such as Cub, Kohls, etc. in #10 envelopes, sorted by month: write the month and year on the outside of the envelope (January 2007).  At the end of the year rubberband the year's receipts together.  This makes it easy to find the receipt when you have to make a return or need to be reimbursed for a purchase.

18. Have a place where you keep unpaid bills and always place them there as soon as they come in the door: e.g. a section of an organizer on the wall or an envelope or file folder in your desk; keep all paperwork from bills that have been paid throughout the year together in one place: a shallow box will work, or you can sort them in file folders.

19. To avoid forgetting to pay a bill: Record in an excel spreadsheet this information or on paper.  Make a chart to record the pertinent information regarding the payment of the bill. List all the bills you commonly pay down the left side and the months of the year along the top and record the check number (or AW for automatic withdrawal) and the amount paid in the appropriate box as you pay each bill. It will be easy to see if you have missed any, and which ones, and to track check numbers, if necessary.

20. Buy a small spiral notebook (3x5”) for each vehicle you own and keep it in the glove box to record gas purchases: record the date, odometer reading, location, # of gallons, cost, and whether paid by check/credit card or cash; also record any maintenance done on that vehicle in the same notebook: it will be easy to calculate your gas mileage, determine when you need to do an oil change, etc.

21. Keep a medium-sized open box in the bottom of your bedroom closet (if you have a master bath) or another handy location close to the bathroom, if you don't, for extra toiletries and bathroom supplies. Always keep in this box at least one extra of each thing the members of your family use on a daily basis: e.g. deodorant, shampoo, bar soap/body wash, mousse/gel, hairspray, after shave, feminine products, etc. When you run out, you then “shop” from the box, and when you use the last one of an item from the box, you write it on your list on the fridge.  This eliminates those last-minute emergency trips to the store for one item you've run out of!

Connect the Dots

I love planning!  Dinners, Days or Room Designs--it makes no difference.  When you're planning on paper, it's impossible to make a mistake!  If you don't like what you wrote, you just erase it or cross it out and write something new in its place.  Planning sparks my creativity.  The possibilities are exciting.  I love the feeling of pen in hand (my preference is blue, medium point) and notebook in front of me, and visually seeing the plan develop on paper.

A few years ago, I learned something about myself from my brother.  In some ways, my brother and I are very alike. Not all ways, but at times it can be quite insightful about "me" to be around him.  As we talked over our plans for the two weeks that he was visiting, he took out paper and drew a calendar. Then he took out his bright-colored markers and began to tie different events together with color, and highlight activities.  I got really excited.  Fireworks were exploding and I felt tingling in parts of my brain I didn't know were there!  All in response to COLOR!  As he animatedly explained why and how he uses colored pens and markers--in his work and in his life--I completely related to how it helped him visualize ideas.  I promptly went out and bought myself some bright-colored pens.

I love planning and I love color and that led to my love for...mindmapping.  If you are not familiar with mindmapping, watch Tony Buzan, who is credited with coming up with the idea, explain it in the video below.  Until I knew about mindmapping, I loved outlines.  Well, actually, I still love outlines.  You know, Roman Numeral I, followed by Capital A (indented), etc.  I love a perfectly lined-up outline.  Aaaah.  I can still remember exactly where I was when I learned to outline. I was in Mrs. Ausen's 4th grade class.  The classroom was set up, as I recall, in a wide U-shape with 2 or 3 rows of desks going all the way around the U.  I sat straight out from her desk, in the second row, in the middle of the U. Jeff M., Cheryl S., and I had so much fun passing notes back and forth that year.  But I digress. Outlining. It was incredible.  An outline was this...Miraculous Tool Thing...that brought my disjointed wild and random thoughts and ideas into ORDER!  But Mindmapping is brilliant when even an outline won't bring order to my thoughts and ideas!  Mindmapping helps me see connections.

Did you ever play "connect the dots"?  I did.  I loved connecting the dots when I was a child.  I was good at connecting the dots.  I loved taking a page full of random black dots and turning it into a PICTURE!  Planning is related, but planning is taking the finished Picture in my head and "numbering the dots", so I can then connect them. I think of Mindmapping as being at the beginning, when I'm not even sure what the Picture is of, and nothing is numbered.  Maybe I even have more than one picture's dots in front of me!  I can't number them, until I know how they relate and what goes with what.  Mindmapping encourages my creative thinking.  It helps me visualize which random dots go with which picture, and helps me recognize what the picture is in my head.  Mindmapping helps me see how it all fits together and what the picture may look like when it's finished. Its specialty is showing where there are relationships.

Mindmapping helps me organize the dots of different ideas in my brain, that seem to be unrelated, but sometimes aren't. And color, well, color groups like things together and makes relationships jump off the page, which makes processing information in my brain go lickety-split, which reduces brain-strain. I love mindmapping and I love color. But, most of all I think I love planning!

Wendy's Helpful Hints, (Part 1) Timely Tips on Tuesday

General Hints for Saving Time and Money
and Specific Helps for Honoring Special Days such as Birthdays and Anniversaries

1. Write the person’s name at the top of the day of their event (Birthdays/Anniversaries) on your calendar.


2. To save money: Buy greeting cards at thrift stores, or make them, or use note cards and write your own sentiment or poem on the inside.


3. To save time and gas, plan all errands, etc. on one day of the week.


4. Whenever possible do two or more things at once: e.g. while riding in the car do handwork or write letters or do planning in your planner; while the family is listening to a read-aloud-book the girls can do handwork/knit/crochet or do artwork/drawing; while watching a video have the washing machine going or sort laundry; while listening to an audio book on cassette for school do baking/cooking/cleaning in the same area.


5. Have a “Gift Shelf” somewhere in your home: a closet works well: when things are on sale buy items for future gift-giving such as baby clothes, or toys, in both blue and pink for upcoming baby showers, books for grads, misc. small items for giving as hostess gifts, frames or small photo albums or glass serving dishes, which may be found at outlets, for bridal showers, etc.)


6. When you buy a person’s birthday gift, also buy their Christmas gift (and vice versa). This spreads gift-buying out over the whole year instead of having all the expense at once; it makes gift-buying easier:  because you’re already thinking of the person’s likes, colors, size, and you can also buy items that will go together (the shirt for his birthday, the tie for Christmas; the plate for her birthday, the matching cups or bowl for Christmas).


7. To save money and yet give something very “special,” you can make Christmas gifts, but you will need to start early, perhaps even in January (you can work on handwork gifts while listening to reading or while riding in the car).


8. Buy Christmas and other gift-wrapping paper and bags at the end of the season, or when on sale. Have a Gift-wrap center in a closet or on a shelf, if you don’t have a special organizer.  Keep these items there:  gift-wrap/bags, tape and scissors, as well as ribbon and bows, etc.


9. Have a box or desk drawer where you specifically keep your greeting cards to send (sorted by occasion); keep a supply of note cards on hand for thank you, thinking of you, praying for you or get well occasions; have stamps and return address stickers in an envelope or nearby in a desk drawer or another box.


10. Put an X by the person’s name on your calendar when you have sent the card, gift or thank you note.

"Living Intentionally Together Week"

eLisa at Extravagant Grace has something good going on, Living Intentionally Together Week, January 1-7th, talking about goals and 2010 and listening to the Lord for what He wants to do in you. (Due to the fact that I took some time away from blogging/computer, you'll have to act fast to participate, but you can also just go and be inspired and challenged by what others have had to say.) Take a look.

I'm learning this New Year to be alright with taking more time to finish my goals sheet and to wait on the Lord, listening--maybe I will set aside the whole month(!)--to be "intentionally" focused on what He is saying to me as I write goals for 2010. I have been praying more, listening to specific sermons, reading the Word.  Obeying as He sheds light.

Tips for Saving Money: Household Budget Expenses

We're at the end of another year.  That means that, in our home, my husband's gathering all of the financial paperwork and doing a review of 2009 in preparation for tax time.  The end of the year is associated with reviewing and resolving.  The beginning of a new year is associated with new starts, change and improvement. Related to finances, I think it's a perfect time for Tips on Saving Money!
First, before we can go in a better direction, we have to know where we are, so:
I. Find out where your money's been going
     A. Look back at what you've spent this year
     B. Itemize expenditures by category, and then total
II. Look at the bills and see what ways, if any, you can cut costs
     A. Electricity: Turn off lights when not in the room; use energy efficient light bulbs; consider buying more energy efficient appliances; don't use the second fridge except when necessary; don't turn the oven on for just one thing; use a clothes line, instead of the dryer, etc.
     B. Gas: Use a set-back thermostat, and/or turn your heat down a few degrees and wear a sweater; (For you Southerners: turn your air conditioning up a few degrees); don't use your oven except when needed, and when you do, bake more than one thing, because the most expensive thing is heating it up in the first place!
     C. Phone: Do you really need all those features? What could you do to decrease this bill? Would bundling or using another provider save you money?
     D. Mortgage: Seriously look at this as a couple, if it's an expense that's more than 30% of your income. Savings options: Refinancing, 15-year loan instead of 30-year, paying a little extra against principle each month, moving to a smaller/cheaper home, renting.
III. Other Expenses: here are some of the ways that you can save some money:
     A. Auto
          1. Check around (call and compare) for the cheapest auto insurance
          2. Possibly bundle with your home insurance
          3. Check into Discounts for non-smokers, non-drinkers, good student, etc.
          4. Pay in full for the year to receive another discount
          5. Buy used, older model cars
          6. Don't speed or get any traffic violations
     B. "Toys": Sell the boat, 4-wheeler, snowmobile, camper, etc.
          1. Watch for future posts on inexpensive ideas for Vacations

Next week: Tips on Saving Money: Significant Savings for Stay-at-Home Moms

New Year's Resolutions

With New Year's coming in just a few days, many of you are thinking about plans for the upcoming year. I would like to make some suggestions as you "resolve" to do things differently, or better.

1. Pray and then pray some more.
2. Set Biblical goals: Will God be pleased or help you if your goal is to get even with someone who's hurt you in the past, or if you're selfishly setting a goal of making a million dollars to spend on yourself?
3. Don't be in a hurry to make a lot of resolutions. Take your goals seriously: you'll be much more likely to work to accomplish them.
4. Have a plan: I suggest setting goals under 4 main headings: Spiritual, Physical, Mental (or Intellectual/Academic), and Skills.
5. Choose just a few goals to start with (1 or 2 in each area): Succeeding in a few is better than being overwhelmed by too many and giving up in frustration.
6. Make your goals achievable. "Become an Olympic swimmer" is not achievable if you don't even know how to swim. Break your larger-than-life goals down into achievable smaller goals: "Sign up for swimming lessons." "Practice 3 times per week for 30 minutes," etc.
7. Make your goals measurable. For example, "Become a better cook" is not measurable. "Try 1 new recipe per week" is measurable and you will know if you have accomplished it or not.
8. Set goals first in the area where you need it most.
9. Write down your goals and look at them often.
10. Make a plan for how you will achieve each goal, and keep a record of daily/weekly achievement.

Below you will find a very simple list which has been handed out at my church the last few years, which I have found helpful in my goalsetting for the new year. This list gives some ideas for areas to think about, and plan for, which you may not already have on your list. (It came to me in a different format, but I give it to you in outline form for readability. You will want to change the format to one which will give you ample space to write out your ideas and goals.)
Just a note:  We all learn differently:  For some, color is very influential and important.  Try using bright-colored pens and markers, if you have never done so before, as you write out your goals. I find it amazingly helpful.

Name______________________

Goals For the Year __________

    I. SPIRITUAL

      A. Bible Reading:

      B. Verses to Memorize:

      C. Subjects to Study:

   II. FINANCIAL

      A. Where will I Give:

      B. How Much Will I try to Save:

      C. Spending I am Saving For:

  III. SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

  IV. LEISURE PLANS

  V. TRAINING I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE

  VI. BOOKS I WOULD LIKE TO READ

 VII. FAMILIES OVER FOR DINNER

VIII. PEOPLE TO MINISTER TO

 IX. MISSIONS OPPORTUNITIES

  X. MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES

 OTHER PLANS

Habits are often the subject of resolutions--bad habits, that is. I ran across some excellent questions that may help you in overcoming yours.

• What sin or sins prevent me from reaching my goal?
• How do these sins hinder me?
• What are the Scriptures on this sin?
• What changes am I going to make to combat this sin?
• What positive things am I going to do to change this habit?

May God help us all to "lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith: who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.  Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin." Hebrews 12:1-4