tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84298658721424806642023-11-16T07:03:11.628-04:00Island Mama's AdventuresOur homeschool adventures and other fun stuff!Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.comBlogger144125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-54011060809244976912014-05-14T13:47:00.001-03:002014-05-14T13:52:21.762-03:00DIY water tableStep 1: drool over water tables online.<br>
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Step 2: post on freecycle looking for one, get a response from a friend that she has one, get super busy and keep forgetting to pick it up...{sorry Shirley}</div>
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Step 3: get desperate one morning for something for your three year old to do while you teach the others.</div>
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Step 4: look around your house and yard and find stuff you previously complained about lying around looking messy.</div>
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Step 5: recruit your 10 year old to help you haul cement blocks</div>
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Step 6: fill with water and step back and enjoy watching said 3 year old have fun.</div><div><br></div><div><br>
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Step 7: hurry up and go teach the others while you have a few uninterrupted minutes!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Ready... Set... Your turn! </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><i>Island Mama</i></div>
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Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-86698085893318333752013-12-31T02:10:00.000-04:002014-01-01T23:34:04.515-04:002013 ReflectionsTonight I sat and reflected on this past year. If I could summarize 2013 with one word it would be...<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> bittersweet</span></span>. </div>
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While it was a difficult year in many ways, it was also a year of tremendous blessings. Many lessons were learned, many tears were shed, but there was joy and laughter throughout the year, in the midst of the pain. God's love and faithfulness was evident every step of the way. <br />
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Here is a summary of our 2013. The ups,<br />
the downs,<br />
the in betweens... </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">January</span>: Joe resigned from his job at BAMZ after being there for 6 years. God opened the door for full time ministry which we had been praying about for sometime. It's sometimes scary to step out in faith but we knew God was moving us in this direction and looked forward to embarking on this new journey. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">February</span>: We took a monthlong family trip to Sri Lanka which was amazing! I got to celebrate my 40th birthday there. We spent precious time with my mom and dad, making memories, not knowing for sure how much longer Ma would be with us. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">March</span>: Joe began work at Cornerstone Bible Fellowship. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">April:</span> We announced that Baby Furbert #5 was on the way and we started raising chickens!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">May</span>: Joe was ordained and officially took on the role as Associate Pastor at Cornerstone. Eden turned 6. Joe completed his first half marathon.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">June</span>: My mom went home to be with The Lord. She passed on peacefully at home with Joe , my dad and I at her side. Two days later, Marcus turned 3.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">July & August</span>: The summer went by quickly with VBS, Cornerstone kids camp, swimming, fishing, spending time with cousins and celebrating Eli's 8th birthday.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">September</span>: we began our 5th year of homeschooling. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">October</span>: Isaiah Jordan made is entrance into the world. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">November</span>: We celebrated Ma's life by planting a cedar tree, our 12th wedding anniversary and Micaiah's 10th birthday. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">December</span>: This month was a blur with Christmas preparation and activities. Some highlights for me were making mince pies which was something my mom did every year, watching the kids perform at Grotto Bay hotel on Christmas Eve, and spending Christmas Day with our parents, being entertained by the kids with a show they put together. </div>
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Definitely a roller coaster of a year but one that God used to strengthen my faith and draw me closer to him. I don't know what 2014 has in store but I'm looking forward to whatever it brings... This year has taught me that whatever I am faced with, God will see me through :)</div>
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Wishing you a Happy New Year!</div>
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Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-13546740981754091232013-09-22T20:00:00.000-03:002013-09-23T02:05:51.014-03:00School's in!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On Friday we finished our second week of school and we are slowly getting into a new routine. After a year of many disruptions, I am enjoying a little bit of normalcy... well, enoying it while I can any way! Sometime in the next few weeks we will welcome baby #5 and who knows what life will look like then!<br />
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This year I have a preschooler, 1st grader, 3rd grader and 5th grader. As you can probably imagine our days are quite busy. <br />
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We are doing things a bit differently this year. During our past four years of homeschooling we have been quite eclectic in our approach to learning, not depending on one curriculum or method of teaching, but incorporating many different resources. The benefits of this is you can meet the individual needs and interests of the learners. We have had a very relaxed approach to learning as I attempt to develop in each child a love for learning. My philosophy is once they love learning you can teach them almost anything and in many cases, they will learn on their own.<br />
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The down side of this approach for me is that it is very time consuming to pull all of these resources together, especially having so many different levels to focus on. I also have a firstborn who loves routine and structure almost to a fault. This type of learning was not really fitting in with his style. His desire to keep on a schedule was being hindered by a mom who's ability to think beyond a day at time especially the last 4 months of the school year, was lacking (think morning sickness, no energy, watching my mom slip away... not a good combination for being an organized homeschooler!!)<br />
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But this is the beauty of homeschooling... you find what works for your child and make it happen! This year we are making more use of specific curricula. Micaiah's is very structured and rigorous (traditional school at home) while the rest are a little more relaxed, but most of the planning is done for me. And so far, 2 weeks in it seems to be working.<br />
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Micaiah (Grade 5/ Primary 6) is enrolled at <a href="https://www.abekaacademy.org/Homeschool/Default.aspx" target="_blank">A Beka Academy</a>. Video streamed classes with text books, reading materials, and testing materials for the entire year all sent to us. All I do for him is supervise his learning, grade his work and be available to answer questions he may have. He is really enjoying it so far, staying on top of his assignments and taking ownership of his schedule. He loves to check off what he has finished and he enjoys watching the classes on line. <br />
<br />
Eli (grade 3/ Primary 4) and Eden (grade 1/ Primary 2) are using the same curricula, learning a lot together and enjoying it. Even through they are 2 grade levels apart the main curriculum covers ages 6 to 8 so it is a perfect fit for us. I do math, spelling/ reading separately for them but the rest is worked on together.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
We are using <a href="http://www.movingbeyondthepage.com/" target="_blank">Moving Beyond the Page</a> which is a comprehensive homeschool curriculum that covers science, social studies, and language arts. It is a unit based curriculum which encourages hands on learning, and focuses on developing critical and creative thinking. The first 2 weeks have been a lot of fun as we are learning about communities around the world.<br />
<br />
For math, we are using <a href="http://rightstartmath.com/" target="_blank">RightStart Math</a> which uses visual, auditory, and kinesthetic approaches to teaching mathematics. Both are using the same program but Eli is moving at a faster pace as much of it is review for him and it is new learning for Eden. So far I like the program but I will have to do a proper review after we have used it for a few months.<br />
<br />
We are continuing to use <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-spelling" target="_blank">All About Spelling </a>which I used in the past for Micaiah and Eli. It is new to Eden this year and I am combining it with <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-reading/" target="_blank">All About Reading</a> for her. Again a kinesthetic, visual and auditory approach... do you notice a theme here?? I have 2 very hands on learners that I think will thrive with these programs. The best part for me is that there is very little planning for all of them. Most lessons I have to simply open the teachers manual and go to it. There are some lessons that require some advance planning like having supplies ready, gathering books from the library etc. which I think I can handle!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9vq1NXR8PT7q8UgW125JlcrSsoAV-WL4ysQdv6g4YiXGcR2dZMfq5NLTskHow9OLIq8lrge8voFpuHiTU5WcBsbYitRItIs4l3yX6Hlle_Sc4M9XpNcxS_EbDmE5YtT12v43Be8qiw/s1600/P9091397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9vq1NXR8PT7q8UgW125JlcrSsoAV-WL4ysQdv6g4YiXGcR2dZMfq5NLTskHow9OLIq8lrge8voFpuHiTU5WcBsbYitRItIs4l3yX6Hlle_Sc4M9XpNcxS_EbDmE5YtT12v43Be8qiw/s400/P9091397.JPG" width="285" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6UqmXJ7eTZm9_Y0ZBLegt3rHhQKFFhWt9BOD3qKYPfNNejvGkwfyZ8t2_2021XlD4CLkIdaRZkHmF1xaueYuY65hyphenhyphenAp4b8flVWKSwAk-TPW3q5SdBig-ZY6rvOE14-XIKvWJOD4MPQ/s1600/P9091398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6UqmXJ7eTZm9_Y0ZBLegt3rHhQKFFhWt9BOD3qKYPfNNejvGkwfyZ8t2_2021XlD4CLkIdaRZkHmF1xaueYuY65hyphenhyphenAp4b8flVWKSwAk-TPW3q5SdBig-ZY6rvOE14-XIKvWJOD4MPQ/s400/P9091398.JPG" width="286" /></a></div>
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<br />
It was apparent in the spring/ early summer that Marcus would need a more structured preschool program. I was going to wait until he was 4 and just continue this year with learning though guided play and lots of free play as we had been doing. He catches on to lots by listening in on everyone's lessons so I decided to do something a little more formal with him. I found <a href="http://www.abcjesuslovesme.com/" target="_blank">ABC Jesus Loves Me</a> which is a free curriculum plan. These past two weeks we learned about Creation, counting using "5 Little Ducks" and the sense of hearing using "Mr. Brown can Moo, Can You?" Each week there is a different bible story, book, number, colour and letter to focus on as well as ideas for fine motor and gross motor development. Marcus also has bible verses to learn each week and he now proudly says Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. I'll have to post a video of him reciting it if he cooperates with me!<br />
<br />
School's in for Mommy to... I am currently in the hardest season I have ever been in in my life but
God is teaching me many lessons.
Prayerfully I'll have a good report card at the end of it all! I will share these lessons with you in hopes that they will be an encouragement to someone else.<br />
<br />
Lesson #1: to put my own ideas aside and be open to change.
Micaiah's program is not one I would have chosen or at first felt would
fit into our style but I had to put my own agenda aside. I depended on
God to give me peace about it and he made it clear in my heart that this
was the right route.<br />
<br />
Lesson #2: I HAVE to start each day with the LORD. The days that I haven't tend to be disastrous. The kids attitudes and behavours overwhelm me more on those days, I am more tired and cranky and have far less patience. God truly sustains me. His power is always available for me... I just have to partake!<br />
<br />
Lesson #3 I am currently reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Woman-Embracing-Purpose-Possibilities/dp/1589977432" target="_blank"><i>Kingdom Woman</i> </a>by Tony Evans and Chrystal Evans Hurst (highly recommended). Here is a quote that has really encouraged and kept me going over the past couple weeks.<br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">"If
you are going to live in excellence, you have to forget yesterday.
Whether it was good, bad, or ugly, if it’s yesterday, you need to let it
go. When you carry yesterday further than you ought to, you ruin today.
If you ruin today, then you spoil tomorrow."</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">I will leave you with that and pray that it is an encouragement to you. Whether you are a homeschool mom, single person, teenager, dad... whoever, it is true for you too! </span><br />
<br />
Until next time, <br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-36076113907542167982013-08-09T23:35:00.000-03:002013-08-09T23:35:42.615-03:00Five Minute Friday {LONELY}<br />
<a href="http://lisajobaker.com/five-minute-friday/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Five Minute Friday"><img alt="Five Minute Friday" src="http://lisajobaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/5minutefriday.jpg" style="border: medium none;" title="Five Minute Friday" /></a><br />
In an attempt to begin writing again and get those creative juices flowing, I decided to join up with <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/five-minute-friday/" target="_blank">5 minute Friday</a> this week.<br />
<br />
You are given a one word prompt... then put 5 minutes on the clock and just write. Don't edit, don't over think, just WRITE!<br />
<br />
Today's word is LONELY. Hmmm ok 3...2..1... GO!<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Lonely </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
pain. grief. burdened<br />
feeling ALONE </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
but am I?<br />
no, <br />
Not alone. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
sympathy. empathy. blessings </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
a hug<br />
an email<br />
a call<br />
flowers<br />
dinner<br />
groceries<br />
a card<br />
a hand written note<br />
<br />
all reminders that He will never leave you alone.<br />
<br />
sometimes feeling LONELY but not ALONE.</blockquote>
<br />
<br />These are all ways I have been touched over the last 6 weeks. I have so much to be thankful for. My prayer is that my eyes and heart will be open to the needs of those around me... those who are hurting, broken and lonely... that they also will know they are not truly alone.<br />
<br />
<br />My first 5 minute Friday! Want to join in? take a look <a href="http://lisajobaker.com/five-minute-friday/" target="_blank">here</a> for more info.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-70301714379896620682013-08-07T12:37:00.002-03:002013-08-09T23:38:01.800-03:00In Search of a New NormalTaking a look back at my blog I realized it is nearly a year since my last entry...<br>
<br>
And what a year it has been...<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br>
<span class="chapter-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-1">Ecclesiastes 3: 1- 8 says:</span></span><br>
<br>
<span class="chapter-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-1">There is a time for everything...</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-1"> and a season for every activity under the heavens:</span></span> <br>
<div class="poetry top-05">
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-2" id="en-NIV-17362"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span>a time to be born and a time to die,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-2">a time to plant and a time to uproot,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-3" id="en-NIV-17363"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-3" id="en-NIV-17363"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span>a time to kill and a time to heal,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-3">a time to tear down and a time to build,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-4" id="en-NIV-17364"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span> </span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-4" id="en-NIV-17364"> a time to weep and a time to laugh,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-4">a time to mourn and a time to dance,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-5" id="en-NIV-17365"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-5" id="en-NIV-17365"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span>a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-5">a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-6" id="en-NIV-17366"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span> </span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-6" id="en-NIV-17366"> a time to search and a time to give up,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-6">a time to keep and a time to throw away,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-7" id="en-NIV-17367"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-7" id="en-NIV-17367"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span>a time to tear and a time to mend,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-7">a time to be silent and a time to speak,</span></span><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-8" id="en-NIV-17368"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Eccl-3-8" id="en-NIV-17368"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span>a time to love and a time to hate,</span></span><br>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Eccl-3-8">a time for war and a time for peace.</span></span></div>
</div>
<br></blockquote>
<br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think there has been a time for all of that in my life this year. </div>
<br>
<br>
I started this blog to have a place to record memories. A place I could go back to in years to come to remember...<br>
<br>
For this past year I couldn't blog. The time was not there. The desire was not there. The words would not flow....<br>
<br>
I don't need a blog to remember this year... the events of this year are forever etched<br>
in my heart and mind...<br>
<br>
<br>
Our family trip of a lifetime.<br>
<br>
Turning 40.<br>
<br>
Becoming a pastor's wife (no I didn't find a new husband, my husband became a pastor :)<br>
<br>
Cheering on with admiration as my husband completed his first half-marathon.<br>
<br>
Ending another year of homeschooling.<br>
<br>
Watching my mother fight valiantly against breast cancer.<br>
Watching her take her last breath.<br>
Experiencing heartache like never before and beyond anything I could have ever imagined.<br>
<br>
Saying goodbye to 2 friends who left the island.<br>
<br>
Saying goodbye a month later as another dear friend and mentor moved away. (thankful for Facebook)<br>
<br>
Preparing my heart and our home for our fifth child (due in about 10 weeks.)<br>
Being blessed beyond measure as we prepare for this unexpected gift from God.<br>
<br>
Being spiritually stretched and broken.<br>
Experiencing mountains, valleys and everything in between.<br>
<br>
This year, I have felt defeated,<br>
I have doubted,<br>
I have been stubborn,<br>
I have failed...<br>
<br>
but over and over , and over and over...<br>
<br>
I've been reminded of God's sovereignty.<br>
His faithfulness.<br>
His goodness.<br>
His mercy<br>
and His grace.<br>
<br>
<br>
So a new page, a new chapter, a new beginning...<br>
<br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I now need this blog to help me move on. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To help me to stop and appreciate the little things</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have overlooked in the whirlwind of last year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To help me pause and reflect on the work </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
God is doing in my life and in my family. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To give me evidence of the bright days </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
on those days that the sun is hidden behind the clouds. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This will be a bittersweet year. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The first with our new little one...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The first without my mom... </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
....by Gods grace I will get through it and prayerfully, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
this time next year, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
as I look back, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
there will be evidences of </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
our</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
new</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
normal.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;"></a></div>
Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-56638835283439589982012-09-30T13:00:00.000-03:002012-10-01T00:25:02.497-03:00Week in Review: Week 2 {in pictures}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.weirdunsocializedhomeschoolers.com/weekly-wrap-up/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="new"><img alt="" size="300X91" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v506/kbmomto3/weeklywrapup300.png " /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I am feeling a bit tired or lazy, or a bit of both, so our weekly wrap up will be a visual one. (don't worry, I'll throw in some captions) Click on the button above if you want to check out how other homeschoolers spent their week.... but first check out ours...</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
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A trip to Tom Moore's jungle with friends...
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Continuing a study on animals of the Galapagos Islands...</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the kids looked up the lengths of each animal and lined them up according to size</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">everyone enjoying this month's sensory tub</td></tr>
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Hard at work...</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eden working on her postcard about planet Earth (from our geography curriculum)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
learning all about atoms in Chemistry</h3>
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Fun school </h3>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
{Celebrating Johnny Appleseed's Birthday}...</h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tasting different varieties of apples</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">apple printing</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Tot school...</h3>
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Extracurricular...</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievB9E71thevMHIA_RCljKzOL4LE4gMrjJvckcciymqx1tRkZM2qJk6znG15tQAWxQk46it6kT79aCtREUPu8u_IIQp5NlT1eVOBB7fHorRe_AanDRooFOgLSYB8zjOof_xWW-EBKSLQ/s1600/P9280107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievB9E71thevMHIA_RCljKzOL4LE4gMrjJvckcciymqx1tRkZM2qJk6znG15tQAWxQk46it6kT79aCtREUPu8u_IIQp5NlT1eVOBB7fHorRe_AanDRooFOgLSYB8zjOof_xWW-EBKSLQ/s320/P9280107.JPG" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the makings of a tennis star!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the boys received awards for last season's participation in cricket. Micaiah was chosen by his coaches as "Most Talented" player!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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So that was a quick look at our week! Good bye until next time!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqRmJ4k6kfIi2b21GUmS4jjZU4eNg1tLeof0K9k-odBihVDq_zneDEjpxPIui5v3NFDFdBNpWDgpSqKl2nmyeKWZX0spTCB3hxoRJHgbKuvJj5CouZuH0PO3dkGVA2Fn9D499SUskcw/s1600/P9270091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqRmJ4k6kfIi2b21GUmS4jjZU4eNg1tLeof0K9k-odBihVDq_zneDEjpxPIui5v3NFDFdBNpWDgpSqKl2nmyeKWZX0spTCB3hxoRJHgbKuvJj5CouZuH0PO3dkGVA2Fn9D499SUskcw/s320/P9270091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-5700166780250025972012-09-22T10:00:00.000-03:002012-09-24T01:23:51.462-03:00Week In Review: Good Bye Summer <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We said goodbye to summer this week and hello to another homeschool year... our 4th year of homeschool! Hard to believe :) The kids were eager to start after a nice long summer break and I was even more eager to get into a routine!</div>
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This year we have a 4th grader, 2nd grader, kindergartener and a little <strike>tornado </strike>tot schooler. It should be an interesting year. Here are some things we will be doing:</div>
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<a href="http://www.realhomeschoolspanish.com/index.html" target="_blank">Mystery of History 1</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gravitaspublications.com/" target="_blank">Real Science 4 Kids </a>(Chemistry pre level 1, Physics pre- level 1 and possibly Biology pre- level 1)</div>
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<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/a-childs-geography-book-and-rom/ann-voskamp/9781932786323/pd/786323?item_code=WW&netp_id=524019&event=ESRCQ&view=details" target="_blank">A Child's Geography</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.realhomeschoolspanish.com/index.html" target="_blank">HomeSchool Spanish</a></div>
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Various unit studies I will scatter throughout to keep things fresh.</div>
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Micaiah (primary 5, 4th grade)</div>
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Math: finishing <a href="http://www.teachingtextbooks.com/v/vspfiles/tt/Math4.htm" target="_blank">Teaching Textbooks 4</a>, possibly starting 5; <a href="http://www.aleks.com/" target="_blank">ALEKS</a></div>
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Language:<a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=98752" target="_blank"> A Beka Language A</a></div>
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Spelling: finishing <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-spelling" target="_blank">All About Spelling</a> 3 moving on to level 4</div>
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Handwriting: <a href="http://www.areasonfor.com/article.php?id=19" target="_blank">A Reason For Handwriting C </a> </div>
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Art: <a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/ProductSearch.aspx?grade=&subject=ART&title=&sbn=" target="_blank">A Beka Art A</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2gtC2axGIPVJNBi-e7kmJL89D76QCdcVRqPogzd2ISkH44ogvfeBoflsap8vEBEeycjD-N-cx3e2O6AL3zw2XA16t7VgJ_92pE9wU92Xb8FBYkPqiVbRpcOBgMQCf61M_n1rrO-PSQ/s1600/P9170650-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2gtC2axGIPVJNBi-e7kmJL89D76QCdcVRqPogzd2ISkH44ogvfeBoflsap8vEBEeycjD-N-cx3e2O6AL3zw2XA16t7VgJ_92pE9wU92Xb8FBYkPqiVbRpcOBgMQCf61M_n1rrO-PSQ/s320/P9170650-001.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
Eli, (Primary 3; 2nd Grade)<br />
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Math: <a href="http://www.teachingtextbooks.com/v/vspfiles/tt/Math3.htm" target="_blank"> Teaching Textbooks 3</a>(very slowly) , <a href="http://www.mathmammoth.com/" target="_blank">Math Mammoth- Early Geometry</a></div>
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Language: <a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=95656" target="_blank">A Beka Language 2</a></div>
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Spelling: finshing <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-spelling" target="_blank">All About Spelling</a> 1 moving on to level 2</div>
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Handwriting:<a href="http://www.areasonfor.com/article.php?id=19" target="_blank"> A Reason For Handwriting B </a></div>
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Art: <a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/ProductSearch.aspx?grade=&subject=ART&title=&sbn=" target="_blank">A Beka Art 2</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPj0rsGBvfSlUvt9Cv3gPYl5ruZkvdBzFKYN3uQOFM_GjB4KJYD2lbjrMXsw5aFY275t9ad-gInj7yDLL9jCx_C9FEPupjUo41wEGgLV0y3V5nLyGBzbAzcJyPc6Mwg51dCMCCCnI4Q/s1600/P9170654-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPj0rsGBvfSlUvt9Cv3gPYl5ruZkvdBzFKYN3uQOFM_GjB4KJYD2lbjrMXsw5aFY275t9ad-gInj7yDLL9jCx_C9FEPupjUo41wEGgLV0y3V5nLyGBzbAzcJyPc6Mwg51dCMCCCnI4Q/s320/P9170654-001.JPG" width="257" /></a></div>
Eden (Primary 1, Kindergarten)<br />
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Math: <a href="http://www.aophomeschooling.com/horizons/grade-k/math/" target="_blank">Horizons Math K</a></div>
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Reading & Phonics: Ordinary Parents Guide to Teaching Reading, <a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/BookDescription.aspx?sbn=26484" target="_blank">A Beka Letters and Sounds</a></div>
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Handwriting: <a href="http://www.areasonfor.com/article.php?id=19" target="_blank">A Reason For Handwriting K</a></div>
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Art: <a href="http://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/ProductSearch.aspx?grade=&subject=ART&title=&sbn=" target="_blank">A Beka Art K</a></div>
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Marcus, Tot school (which really means getting into everything everyone else is doing !!) </div>
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I will hopefully spend the first part of each day with Marcus on a focused developmental activity while the older kids are doing their independent work. Here is what we did this week:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJwrsGQ1sIxdHRcKfSqWAGeeU84zKpwWrZOGNf-i4WajW0zjZVygCstT2AFGknx8mlnkb6Y-83hF4wV0OoEqAUUVlRI7bRpERYY4JKmLXDSQqtUIOh4Mx_vb5FQXz_6ZnB1B_CvLQFQ/s1600/IMG_0561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJwrsGQ1sIxdHRcKfSqWAGeeU84zKpwWrZOGNf-i4WajW0zjZVygCstT2AFGknx8mlnkb6Y-83hF4wV0OoEqAUUVlRI7bRpERYY4JKmLXDSQqtUIOh4Mx_vb5FQXz_6ZnB1B_CvLQFQ/s320/IMG_0561.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">scooping and pouring beans</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-gMUovb4_5P8LaUDuvaGZTekGIE5-nxDyYbe-i-NTWRzwsJpzdHLh6awKddBYLIJIzGaek3BLjUD_on4nNeVhyphenhyphennUHTWKnok1jFAGE_uRRObO7_LYav-HGTtHu0K8Gt0Gf8dJENCaDQ/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-gMUovb4_5P8LaUDuvaGZTekGIE5-nxDyYbe-i-NTWRzwsJpzdHLh6awKddBYLIJIzGaek3BLjUD_on4nNeVhyphenhyphennUHTWKnok1jFAGE_uRRObO7_LYav-HGTtHu0K8Gt0Gf8dJENCaDQ/s320/IMG_0562.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playdough- Marcus loved this and asked to play with it every day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQpLqdaAA7L5oimuHIPV-DBNhEBb9szmsyTYDDbWZDt8tceQqoNPeD5M2_Fdpf-omYPz5_g5ZTc_8yTAwSx4judKigBLk3RDhccn2b1bhUjuSd4st1K2xzm5taGkCX3NS0EzXbP_bnA/s1600/P9210674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQpLqdaAA7L5oimuHIPV-DBNhEBb9szmsyTYDDbWZDt8tceQqoNPeD5M2_Fdpf-omYPz5_g5ZTc_8yTAwSx4judKigBLk3RDhccn2b1bhUjuSd4st1K2xzm5taGkCX3NS0EzXbP_bnA/s320/P9210674.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sorting and dumping bears </td></tr>
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Here are some other highlights of our first week:</div>
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Finishing our work early on Tuesday and meeting friends at the beach (sorry no picture)</div>
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Taking a walk to visit some animals nearby </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymR7Jm0-6kQyzjCyXE7tVs3QaTedPfjpetVp6ci89JSXHAj_mfL8SDe0hN3OXqtX8pIlDD5iPx1C5_k073Sy9vl1PKHhQU46RYEWHJqoJ3V_iMGUxnfaVB3k2sXMAs57Wve8j_cTx-g/s1600/P9200664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymR7Jm0-6kQyzjCyXE7tVs3QaTedPfjpetVp6ci89JSXHAj_mfL8SDe0hN3OXqtX8pIlDD5iPx1C5_k073Sy9vl1PKHhQU46RYEWHJqoJ3V_iMGUxnfaVB3k2sXMAs57Wve8j_cTx-g/s320/P9200664.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErY27Qt9oWwbnWzXIqilNVaaoUdiw2X4f40vNy-4maVog0gzUoSmAj4WqD5gpSmsjPqKqnSudNbwRGIJjLt5GNamNe5Y0iMwKo_H0KEx04UT2-kwGJ2B3wsE5hscCGHIiU0uAR42i9w/s1600/P9200668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErY27Qt9oWwbnWzXIqilNVaaoUdiw2X4f40vNy-4maVog0gzUoSmAj4WqD5gpSmsjPqKqnSudNbwRGIJjLt5GNamNe5Y0iMwKo_H0KEx04UT2-kwGJ2B3wsE5hscCGHIiU0uAR42i9w/s320/P9200668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2COtVMDEyBdmGHKnrBxKan7NZSgUnhORj8RZEDYjjdloI1iGxaBBWpw9r6vdM7A_kRMsL8iPggytF2LY2pZQArBPtPxIj3t1zsoE76-Udf46jX60k39DgFmUech0hFHe5DWWFvsL38A/s1600/P9200667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2COtVMDEyBdmGHKnrBxKan7NZSgUnhORj8RZEDYjjdloI1iGxaBBWpw9r6vdM7A_kRMsL8iPggytF2LY2pZQArBPtPxIj3t1zsoE76-Udf46jX60k39DgFmUech0hFHe5DWWFvsL38A/s320/P9200667.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We started a unit study on The Galapagos Islands and the Blue-footed Booby. We will continue next week and here is a sneak peek at our sensory tub to go along with it:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKV1jkQFGC1rm73DqyIJ8SuaSWBcDQQSrovJ4bzP187szWSlu-f7MGxKVi4XA2MOUiootIIDpWs3wcSQTimcI8ATdMylpsAE8fhSlyI7QoVXA7aFGxyzdz9pseCkVv3yheJ45wqqx3g/s1600/P9230692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKV1jkQFGC1rm73DqyIJ8SuaSWBcDQQSrovJ4bzP187szWSlu-f7MGxKVi4XA2MOUiootIIDpWs3wcSQTimcI8ATdMylpsAE8fhSlyI7QoVXA7aFGxyzdz9pseCkVv3yheJ45wqqx3g/s320/P9230692.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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That was our week... I will try to be faithful in doing a weekly wrap up this year so stay tuned for the many adventures of Best of All Academy!!<br />
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linking this post to </div>
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<a href="http://www.weirdunsocializedhomeschoolers.com/2012/09/weekly-wrap-up-the-one-with-the-party/" target="_blank">Weekly Wrap up</a> & <a href="http://www.1plus1plus1equals1.net/tag/Moments%20to%20Remember/" target="_blank">Moments to Remember</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-42761961245593004592012-09-14T22:00:00.000-03:002012-09-15T20:54:58.986-03:00Moments to Remember: rain, a lake and a bird named Bernard<br />
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After <a href="http://bernews.com/2012/09/photos-heavy-rains-causes-flooding-islandwide/" target="_blank">today's heavy rain</a> we took the kids out for a drive and stopped to check out the "lake" at Bernard's Park. The kids were amazed at how flooded the area was and quickly took advantage of the opportunity to splash around.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg635uWWTWo0JMMJso0RF8OTvX6mYBbLRFK54ucDGhkj_G0CJ-VTcQbGi3ySOiak7sfJpQyUMp3eI_0QsHfx4yZ28jwbeX12W31bACXJKrlw9xPVTrIU06xRi1VyLDBW7FAHTCbaDEROw/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg635uWWTWo0JMMJso0RF8OTvX6mYBbLRFK54ucDGhkj_G0CJ-VTcQbGi3ySOiak7sfJpQyUMp3eI_0QsHfx4yZ28jwbeX12W31bACXJKrlw9xPVTrIU06xRi1VyLDBW7FAHTCbaDEROw/s400/photo1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqyEeAhuQfzja-u6M-VCimRcz2FugunWEwcmFIV1lget0-5jSgvngtVkK7yTT9J6w6j6itecJMQR5K3SH5lvkBxiHkAOlhkLW87YZV54w-ZtHc4b1iu9U7g8NE-34TmrGDP-VDbyZbHA/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqyEeAhuQfzja-u6M-VCimRcz2FugunWEwcmFIV1lget0-5jSgvngtVkK7yTT9J6w6j6itecJMQR5K3SH5lvkBxiHkAOlhkLW87YZV54w-ZtHc4b1iu9U7g8NE-34TmrGDP-VDbyZbHA/s400/photo3.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kc2eORDeQ0wfwY3_J7QMca7TJe3USNRoWndy-aPmaXiJTaPlRVk3S067D8kmflVPT6ELSzfKalCvw0LK8n6P54465lDbNVFlM4WnYupTwEu9mO4QMqSXxsP67s8Qes4cZ_eMy9-KUg/s1600/photo5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kc2eORDeQ0wfwY3_J7QMca7TJe3USNRoWndy-aPmaXiJTaPlRVk3S067D8kmflVPT6ELSzfKalCvw0LK8n6P54465lDbNVFlM4WnYupTwEu9mO4QMqSXxsP67s8Qes4cZ_eMy9-KUg/s400/photo5.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRabH7D6ZLodDmhrWDnP3hf3FQHxS5PQbasWBsr7lyIqi7cXPERkdQVt0gEvJwKZOWCh0zCoi7WbA3YjB2Yio3LCGxg1blCcneFxxn2vGjvuEJ53Xk4Le-48vQtNWNqaRODjhscDc4A/s1600/photo6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRabH7D6ZLodDmhrWDnP3hf3FQHxS5PQbasWBsr7lyIqi7cXPERkdQVt0gEvJwKZOWCh0zCoi7WbA3YjB2Yio3LCGxg1blCcneFxxn2vGjvuEJ53Xk4Le-48vQtNWNqaRODjhscDc4A/s400/photo6.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
We rescued a <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Lesser_Yellowlegs/id" target="_blank">Lesser Yellow Legs</a> that was sick or injured. We named him Bernard and Joe took him to <a href="http://www.bamz.org/" target="_blank">BAMZ</a> where they can hopefully nurse him back to good health.<br />
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It was a fun way to end our week! Hope you have a good weekend :)<br />
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Linking up with </div>
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<a href="http://www.homeschoolcreations.net/2012/09/sharks-teethmoments-to-remember/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://i678.photobucket.com/albums/vv146/homeschoolcreations/MomentstoRemember125x125.jpg" title="Moments to Remember" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-2248247773214481622012-07-30T22:28:00.003-03:002012-07-30T22:28:59.921-03:00DIY Recycled cardboard jewelry organizerSo it's been awhile since I have updated this blog. I will not start<strike> listing the reasons
</strike> making excuses<br />
as to why, and I won't make any promises that the posts will be coming more regularly... there is a 2 year old in the house.. need I say more??<br />
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Summer is zooming by... plans for our upcoming school year are swirling around in my head but I am trying to enjoy the freedom of summer as long as I can!<br />
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We were feeling crafty last week so Eden and I tackled a little project that we had fun with.<br />
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I had been saving this sturdy cardboard frame which came with a new air conditioner. As soon as I saw it I knew we could use it to make something. I decided on a jewelry organizer for all Eden's treasures which usually end up all over the place.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6rDlLP6y-ifNNFmfrQ9ZXXpxr2P7nqdcA8_paIXJs0eyzY0Hd4Rb2racS90yGpXWXAzd1AiUeBEnOyfB-aIfOMsAso-jAKKm9ywdtmsjRqcUYI1myRvr1oYDLpvYaMpfSucKjL_DvTA/s1600/P7230103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6rDlLP6y-ifNNFmfrQ9ZXXpxr2P7nqdcA8_paIXJs0eyzY0Hd4Rb2racS90yGpXWXAzd1AiUeBEnOyfB-aIfOMsAso-jAKKm9ywdtmsjRqcUYI1myRvr1oYDLpvYaMpfSucKjL_DvTA/s320/P7230103.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdyL9cE5iaKgjJneB6TShh_If_Dw2oLdggY_3N1hgjYF4cXkubePhtFBYMvd3xu7d93fzPO4VO8lkcDzwwMSEWL_xZVdX7HCMxoukXFxKRaiN1hoXH1hzlVmCb_c_FagHE81a2go8zQ/s1600/P7230106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdyL9cE5iaKgjJneB6TShh_If_Dw2oLdggY_3N1hgjYF4cXkubePhtFBYMvd3xu7d93fzPO4VO8lkcDzwwMSEWL_xZVdX7HCMxoukXFxKRaiN1hoXH1hzlVmCb_c_FagHE81a2go8zQ/s320/P7230106.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I started by letting Eden paint the frame inside and out and decorate it how she liked. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNXpGGkMItAHZ44xveme-1imYVXWrkyMU-2Cm4QkdiVSgGUOco_tBGOpgoofUYsrV5jFSkQhxIrabQ8Rnz_4EBDohenVvgTPeIEV0jEXIh6hVYK59O5HrrX4lmbKdNr6ASqL601VgnA/s1600/P7230108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNXpGGkMItAHZ44xveme-1imYVXWrkyMU-2Cm4QkdiVSgGUOco_tBGOpgoofUYsrV5jFSkQhxIrabQ8Rnz_4EBDohenVvgTPeIEV0jEXIh6hVYK59O5HrrX4lmbKdNr6ASqL601VgnA/s320/P7230108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Once the paint was dry I added little hooks along the top, hot glued a wooden bar in the middle for more hanging space and attached some clothes pegs on the bottom clip art work or little notes. I punched 2 holes at the top and threaded a ribbon for hanging and voila...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGcjitU5rBpi2JoXpWk7rveki-s_-GpWBkqwWwl9Djyyd-4trhAOhG35xP-pU93CRSzO-aVrPZN90gqE9WcoeEA6_2KXCIsAMzF095vKDaCrg5B5mLBS5hu5KR0VdYbuaW5vPYKWC8Q/s1600/P7230123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGcjitU5rBpi2JoXpWk7rveki-s_-GpWBkqwWwl9Djyyd-4trhAOhG35xP-pU93CRSzO-aVrPZN90gqE9WcoeEA6_2KXCIsAMzF095vKDaCrg5B5mLBS5hu5KR0VdYbuaW5vPYKWC8Q/s320/P7230123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tho9HPwckP-xsv6MYz0xpDfHq6zWI4hq7k4pQAVkSsc7x1vaaWWKK-nC-cV-txFP07tdVeYF7kW8dxfBR8BXudWksfkA3HszG7JCXm4W7dUczP-0dn7qanhVwsUZdUtnBWY8Ue06eA/s1600/P7230122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tho9HPwckP-xsv6MYz0xpDfHq6zWI4hq7k4pQAVkSsc7x1vaaWWKK-nC-cV-txFP07tdVeYF7kW8dxfBR8BXudWksfkA3HszG7JCXm4W7dUczP-0dn7qanhVwsUZdUtnBWY8Ue06eA/s400/P7230122.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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A cute and easy jewelry organizer!<br />
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Until next time...<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0px none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-34061264885508399362012-06-01T08:30:00.000-03:002012-06-01T08:30:57.019-03:00What Makes a Fish a Fish: A Review<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
<b>Have you ever heard of a frogfish?</b><br />
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It is one of the creatures we learned about while reviewing <i><b>What makes a Fish a Fish</b></i> which is one in a series of DVDs from a company called <a href="http://www.diveintoyourimagination.com/component/option,com_frontpage/Itemid,180/" target="_blank">Dive into Your Imagination. </a> It's founder, Annie AKA "OCEAN ANNIE" has become one of America’s leading
ocean-environ educators. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Science/?action=view&current=DIVE-WhatMakesaFishaFishDVD.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Science/DIVE-WhatMakesaFishaFishDVD.png" width="126" /></a><br />
<div class="prod_desc">
<a href="http://www.diveintoyourimagination.com/component/page,shop.product_details/flypage,diyi_flypage/product_id,4/category_id,6/manufacturer_id,0/option,com_virtuemart/Itemid,103/" target="_blank"><i><b>What Makes A Fish, A Fish</b></i></a> is the first DVD in the Dive
Into Your Imagination series. This DVD teaches children about astounding
fish from around the world. In 2008 it won the Greatest Products call from iParenting Media Awards! </div>
We were sent the DVD and given access to the PDF Educators' Guides. The DVD has 8 main chapters including Sea Anemones and Their Friends, Bath Time for Fishes, Frogfish are Funny Looking Fish and Dinner Time for Fish. and a couple of bonus tracks explaining scuba diving and production. <br />
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When we watched it the first time the kids were fascinated by the Frogfish so I decided to use the teaching guide to develop a whole lesson around this funny looking creature. The lesson plans are well laid out easy to follow and can be adapted to meet the needs of your kids. They include background
information about all the topics presented on the DVD and many
activities to use with each topic which
cover math, language arts, social studies and science. <br />
<br />
For each of the chapters on the DVD, there is a chapter in the educator guide of the same name. Within the educator guides, you can choose from 6-7 activity stations per unit to share with your children. Both sets of guides, PreK-K and 1st-3rd Grades follows the same framework with age appropriate activities so if you download both sets you can choose your favorites. I was given access to both the Pre-K to K guide and the 1st to 3rd
grade guide. I used both to prepare a fun day for all 4 kids. ( yes the
almost 2 yr old also joined in. )<br />
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Here are some highlights from our FrogFish Day:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4VVJXgac3bxYdaibPMJfTRI9xM00FyfrqTdBeiasTLVwepeiwPSM3wx0txYY3bjEdn2vtPzAjanM-ZPNoc-SxtZKQEbPJSYvXCuxRyrDgmx5hsVYI9KAZncAUUwAbVauofQGpfXBlg/s1600/P5280481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4VVJXgac3bxYdaibPMJfTRI9xM00FyfrqTdBeiasTLVwepeiwPSM3wx0txYY3bjEdn2vtPzAjanM-ZPNoc-SxtZKQEbPJSYvXCuxRyrDgmx5hsVYI9KAZncAUUwAbVauofQGpfXBlg/s320/P5280481.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our Frog Fish Board</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpOdpdAWcnPxwlFlIOAYzSvIpcpa4hyphenhyphenHn4DvZ9zyuTPq6px9xduKIneZsCtIzY3wj-4bMI802XRbU9oagx6iuo-bebS8eiDwdTdSDME4wLqWiZxjKJuQ6pBIN10eR5hkWx7-tqBoZhA/s1600/P5280482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpOdpdAWcnPxwlFlIOAYzSvIpcpa4hyphenhyphenHn4DvZ9zyuTPq6px9xduKIneZsCtIzY3wj-4bMI802XRbU9oagx6iuo-bebS8eiDwdTdSDME4wLqWiZxjKJuQ6pBIN10eR5hkWx7-tqBoZhA/s320/P5280482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDqgdHcnvAMQbg1zSItmm_a2RuiA8muot4_j-S13AzM1du6K_sXsmF1JqvAtYWiEoAXbUab5BgJ_OYUQ7mcfUucgkFon6QZbqDu0GZWmiXS52hqzsyqmUgQQL53gJAr9ehvj5Q6LKxg/s1600/P5280473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDqgdHcnvAMQbg1zSItmm_a2RuiA8muot4_j-S13AzM1du6K_sXsmF1JqvAtYWiEoAXbUab5BgJ_OYUQ7mcfUucgkFon6QZbqDu0GZWmiXS52hqzsyqmUgQQL53gJAr9ehvj5Q6LKxg/s400/P5280473.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out where Frogfish can be found around the world</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ujl7gOrM8ptlJp_vpFN7i5rzyG5CnN1oOygnkdzhIgywZhJZcEc2YkXaDuDYy8HHVtG8RQPV4zGKh_huDAqOi-OVrZlJITX_hbpMgX2IncqDB1Qzyd8Grm-l1z7VMOFB4flPel61dw/s1600/P5280488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ujl7gOrM8ptlJp_vpFN7i5rzyG5CnN1oOygnkdzhIgywZhJZcEc2YkXaDuDYy8HHVtG8RQPV4zGKh_huDAqOi-OVrZlJITX_hbpMgX2IncqDB1Qzyd8Grm-l1z7VMOFB4flPel61dw/s320/P5280488.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making their own Frogfish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohj40Qvl3v6cg3VlFmYBAb31QJSsbKkeujEFIGiWrErwTO-phmwT9e6rcQovcslTlHeV9tQWjehd8xW8LjrnMMPbbYvs5kmCv8x8ARQuSjZvdhhgNM2j7UuN7-SxBcBtPp4ar3PY_ug/s1600/P5280494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohj40Qvl3v6cg3VlFmYBAb31QJSsbKkeujEFIGiWrErwTO-phmwT9e6rcQovcslTlHeV9tQWjehd8xW8LjrnMMPbbYvs5kmCv8x8ARQuSjZvdhhgNM2j7UuN7-SxBcBtPp4ar3PY_ug/s320/P5280494.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even Marcus joined in!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jxWKbPSLAe4hnbTxWcvc559_i06FD6_hdSvzU_zh6JzUjz6PqVNswvnGEBAhGQOZ2y5A3yDYi74VlCd6wj6iybi7kWdm82rYwf_Qqfbj7kQ1e3hjTWyIurPl_mH3sa983vpv_SxHiA/s1600/frogfish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jxWKbPSLAe4hnbTxWcvc559_i06FD6_hdSvzU_zh6JzUjz6PqVNswvnGEBAhGQOZ2y5A3yDYi74VlCd6wj6iybi7kWdm82rYwf_Qqfbj7kQ1e3hjTWyIurPl_mH3sa983vpv_SxHiA/s400/frogfish.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our diverse Frogfish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0BTNl0sLSs8oMZetUfoIx1I-DPUfqpADdd3ts0t7vSU5_7VZvqtw50sNw4DfFctpHR7CoFqSMGvu8f43TsQ9olw3-yCTskfPRPtT1-8Ukyzavd29mMPyu25FlzieE6P4GsM81PzoBQ/s1600/P5280502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0BTNl0sLSs8oMZetUfoIx1I-DPUfqpADdd3ts0t7vSU5_7VZvqtw50sNw4DfFctpHR7CoFqSMGvu8f43TsQ9olw3-yCTskfPRPtT1-8Ukyzavd29mMPyu25FlzieE6P4GsM81PzoBQ/s320/P5280502.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">completing a language arts worksheet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ugSQQgW4qPFqqzlxl7UMkhfGFmaET55BNOmIsK4lMzf-6RnC2TIAmjfbbKl2XmzRClTDtirH5LO5VTO3J8lsWnqab5QpTMwXPIUcY24-qu8ilcGZg5-VhyphenhyphenF0AyNW67zSUUyex3IonA/s1600/P5280504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ugSQQgW4qPFqqzlxl7UMkhfGFmaET55BNOmIsK4lMzf-6RnC2TIAmjfbbKl2XmzRClTDtirH5LO5VTO3J8lsWnqab5QpTMwXPIUcY24-qu8ilcGZg5-VhyphenhyphenF0AyNW67zSUUyex3IonA/s320/P5280504.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frogfish math</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjffZPIkn3Ab-Z11aDwp90m39T26qFre89WmH2mKpf55jJqF3yagu_Z4RgV-YZW8z0Q8DWKmgoGa8_VqQWaSbxCb8iDlkpCbNW6oAaHCXBRgaGaYeneE7XBtG8J-fqU6iGJODSSj5tNjA/s1600/P5280505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjffZPIkn3Ab-Z11aDwp90m39T26qFre89WmH2mKpf55jJqF3yagu_Z4RgV-YZW8z0Q8DWKmgoGa8_VqQWaSbxCb8iDlkpCbNW6oAaHCXBRgaGaYeneE7XBtG8J-fqU6iGJODSSj5tNjA/s320/P5280505.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing a frogfish memory game</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoX2RRNsvZBOIRFkqXQTsTHczj_vGjxLxkQ26IEIRdyGjHb86T39ff90-9sN6mq-9-sD_lAox7US7C4yO8k7laQEq2TcNn58s1FW6bt1vYbYd4zJd3VUIXaskxzfupjGXe0H8U-n5pQ/s1600/P5280507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoX2RRNsvZBOIRFkqXQTsTHczj_vGjxLxkQ26IEIRdyGjHb86T39ff90-9sN6mq-9-sD_lAox7US7C4yO8k7laQEq2TcNn58s1FW6bt1vYbYd4zJd3VUIXaskxzfupjGXe0H8U-n5pQ/s320/P5280507.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">catching fish like a frogfish!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As you can see, we had a great Frogfish Day! It was easy and fun to put together and as usual, I learned a lot too!<br />
<br />
Other titles in the series are <i><b>Who Lives in the Sea </b></i>and <i><b>Dive into Diversity. </b></i>The are available at <a href="http://diveintoyourimagination.com/">Diveintoyourimagination.com</a>. Each DVD is priced at $19.95. <br />
<br />
It is important to note that the Educator guides are separate and are available as a printed version for $299 (for the whole set) or as individual PDFs for $69.95. But check this out:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"As a special for the Homeschool Crew and The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and
followers Annie Crawley of Dive Into Your Imagination, she will gift you a set
of PDFs with purchase of the DVDs. When you place your DVD order, just let her
know in the notes that you are a Homeschool Parent!"</span><br />
<br />
<br />
In order to obtain these 300 page information packed guides, just mention <b>"homeschooler"</b> in the comment section at checkout after you have added the DVDs. That's a good deal! There is even free shipping for the month of June!<br />
<br />
See what other reviewers had to say <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785269/" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
<i>Disclaimer: As a member of TOS crew I received this product in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions expressed here are my own.</i><br />
<br /></div>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-45813352450379305102012-05-23T13:41:00.001-03:002012-05-23T13:41:32.379-03:00Mud Cakes<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I read something a few days ago that I can't get out of my mind. Something that has both bothered and convicted me. <br />
<br />
I had picked up an informational booklet about the organization <a href="http://www.feedmylambsministry.org/" target="_blank">Feed my Lambs</a>, a ministry which provides housing, food and education to the impoverished in Haiti. As I read it, I came across this:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"<i>As soon as I arrived in Haiti I was overwhelmed by the enormous need that was all around me. There were ladies on the side of the street mixing mud with oil and salt to bake and feed it to their families for the evening meal. Mud cakes they called it."</i>-<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Philip Rego, Founder of Feed My Lambs</span></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
I
read this and my heart grew heavy. Eating MUD? No way!! I had to <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=mud+cakes+%2B+haiti+_+image&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&channel=fflb#hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=PrZ&rls=org.mozilla:en-US%3Aofficial&channel=fflb&sclient=psy-ab&q=mud+cakes+haiti&oq=mud+cakes+%2B+haiti+&aq=0K&aqi=g-K2g-mK1g-bK1&aql=&gs_l=serp.1.0.0i30l2j0i5i30j0i8i30.885524.885524.1.887392.1.1.0.0.0.0.558.558.5-1.1.0...0.0.cyqmD3efQ30&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=a3ce792a95622310&biw=1276&bih=670" target="_blank">Google this</a>. Not because I
doubted the credibility of the organization but because it was so
unbelievable to me that I wanted to know more. I <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=mud+cakes+%2B+haiti+_+image&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&channel=fflb#hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=PrZ&rls=org.mozilla:en-US%3Aofficial&channel=fflb&sclient=psy-ab&q=mud+cakes+haiti&oq=mud+cakes+%2B+haiti+&aq=0K&aqi=g-K2g-mK1g-bK1&aql=&gs_l=serp.1.0.0i30l2j0i5i30j0i8i30.885524.885524.1.887392.1.1.0.0.0.0.558.558.5-1.1.0...0.0.cyqmD3efQ30&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=a3ce792a95622310&biw=1276&bih=670" target="_blank">found several reports and pictures online</a> that provided more information. Although most of the reports were from 2008 and 2010 directly after devastation of hurricanes and the notorious earthquake it is probably still a reality for some. <br />
<br />
I did not consider myself naive to poverty and world hunger. Sure, I have seen the pictures of
starving children, I have seen begging firsthand in my mother's homeland
but something about this spoke to the desperation of these mothers struggling to keep
their families alive and it shook me to my core.<br />
<br />
We are a
family of six living on a single income in a country with a very high
cost of living. Over the past few years, there have been many departures of foods from my
shopping cart that I once thought of as necessities. I have had to be
very creative in the kitchen to make meals stretch especially when there
has been more month than money.<br />
<br />
But we have never been hungry.<br />
My kids
have never missed a meal.<br />
God has always provided...<br />
...but yet I have
complained.<br />
<br />
Complained that we couldn't afford strawberries.<br />
Complained
that the budget didn't allow for a new recipe I wanted to try.<br />
Complained that we've had the same meal for a few days.<br />
<br />
Not out loud ...but
in my heart.<br />
<br />
Wanting more. Wanting bigger. Wanting better. Wanting easier....<br />
<br />
All while mothers are feeding their children mud.<br />
<br />
Oh God, please forgive me. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-71462985516422589112012-05-22T21:34:00.000-03:002012-05-22T21:35:17.849-03:00WriteShop: A review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/?action=view&current=writeshop_primary_books2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="156" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/writeshop_primary_books2.jpg" width="320" /></a>We were given the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.writeshop.com/" target="_blank">WriteShop Primary</a>, a parent guided writing curriculum for kindergarten to 3rd grade. I had heard of the WriteShop writing program for middle and highschool students so I was excited to try out this Primary program with my kids. We received level B as an e-book which is geared towards first and second grade and can also be used for reluctant 3rd graders. <br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"WriteShop Primary teaches the skills of the writing process at the
very simplest level through activities, crafts, and picture books. It
accommodates pre-writers as well as beginning and developing writers,
so your youngster needs no previous reading or writing experience.
Slowly and gently, the child is asked to help with the actual writing,
first in simple words and later, through copywork. And by turning these
stories into a little craft, he will have a project to proudly share
with others." (from the WriteShop <a href="http://www.writeshop.com/" target="_blank">website</a>)</blockquote>
<br />
The curriculum has 2 parts, a very easy to use teachers guide and a student activity set worksheet pack. Both are available as hard copy or e-book format. As I was given the e-book, I printed out one lesson at a time and the accompanying activity sheets and kept them together in a 3 ringed binder. I made a binder for each child for them to keep their completed activity sheets and other pieces of writing.<br />
<br />
The teachers guide was easy to follow and the lessons required some but not too much preparation on the part of the parent. Each lesson is split out into 8 parts or activity sets and can be worked through using a few suggested schedules outlined in the teacher's guide. <br />
<br />
Here are the 8 parts of each lesson:<br />
<br />
Activity Set 1: Guided Writing Practice only<br />
Activity Set 2: Pre-writing Activities and Picture Book<br />
Activity Set 3: Brainstorming<br />
Activity Set 4: The Writing Project <br />
Activity Set 5: Editing and Revising<br />
Activity Set 6: Activity Set Worksheet<br />
Activity Set 7: Publishing the Project <br />
Activity Set 8: Want To Do More?<br />
<br />
Here is a sample lesson plan (click on it to see it full sized)<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/?action=view&current=Prim-B2TeacherLessonPlanSample.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="257" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/Prim-B2TeacherLessonPlanSample.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
<br />
<br />
Here is an example of a worksheet:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/?action=view&current=Prim-B1ActivitySetWorksheets.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="273" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Language%20Arts/Write%20Shop/Book%20B/Prim-B1ActivitySetWorksheets.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
<br />
Our Experience:<br />
<br />
I decided to use the program with both Eli (grade 1) and Micaiah (grade 3). The level was perfect for Eli and although some of it was a little easy for Micaiah he still benefited from the structure of the program. Writing has been an area that both boys, for different reasons have struggled with to some degree but Writeshop has help them to gain confidence in their writing. We have worked through a couple lessons--I found them easy to teach and the kids found them fun to work through. Eden, my preschooler has enjoyed sitting in on the lessons, even participating at times. In lesson 1 the focus was on writing a friendly letter and I taught the kids the "Friendly Letter Boogie" suggested in the teacher guide to teach the parts of a letter. That was a highlight for many days and even now weeks later, I catch Eli or Eden reciting it!<br />
<br />
The thought of writing can be daunting for a beginning writer and even more daunting for a parent who has a reluctant writer (or two:), but Writeshop breaks the writing process down into manageable chunks, and throws in fun activities and crafts. This in my opinion is a recipe for success! The proof for me was hearing both boys enthusiastically say that WriteShop is one of their favourite parts of school!! <br />
<br />
The cost of WriteShop Primary B teacher's guide is $29.95 for the hard copy and $26.95 for the e-book. The Student activity sheets are $4.95 and $4.50 respectively. If you are interested in trying out WriteShop now would be a good time to order as they are offering 15% off WriteShop Primary and Junior products in the WriteShop store (including e-books) using coupon code CREW15 at checkout. This offer is valid through June 15, 2012. Visit their <a href="http://www.writeshop.com/" target="_blank">website</a> for more information or see what other reviewers had to say <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785184/" target="_blank">here.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Disclaimer: As a member of the <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785184/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> I received this product for free in exchange for an honest review (favourable or otherwise). The opinions stated here are my own.Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-82062347576913267552012-05-19T02:39:00.002-03:002012-05-19T02:40:52.197-03:00CapJaxMathFax: A Review<br />
Do your kids struggle with memorizing math facts? At our house it is something we practice over and over. For some it is a breeze, for others...ah, not so much. I try and use different methods to get those facts to sink in. We recently had the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.capjax.com/index.php?main_page=index" target="_blank">CapJaxMathFax</a> (I know a mouthful right! I just shortened it to JaxFax)<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/CapJaxMathFax/?action=view&current=Logo.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="56" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/CapJaxMathFax/Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a>
What is it?<br />
<a href="http://www.capjax.com/index.php?main_page=index" target="_blank"> CapJaxMathFax </a>is a downloadable math facts program<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.capjax.com/index.php?main_page=index" target="_blank"> CapJaxMathFax</a>™ system has controls that allow small-step goal-setting so progress is evident and guaranteed. (from the website)<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Uses a computer to provide drill and practice so that practice time is not limited by teacher availability. </li>
<li>Automatically generates exercises. Teachers don't prepare quizzes. They merely provide the parameters for them. </li>
<li>Builds exercises for any of the four math tables (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) or any combination of tables. </li>
<li>Guarantees student success by taking small steps through levels of
difficulty. </li>
<li>Can focus practice at a single level of difficulty or may review earlier levels. </li>
<li>Randomly generates problems without repetition. </li>
<li>Allows variable numbers of problems in an exercise. </li>
<li>Reduces learner stress by timing facts individually. </li>
<li> Provides immediate positive feedback for correct answers. </li>
<li>Provides extra reinforcement for fast, correct answers. </li>
<li> Displays an overall performance report at the conclusion of each exercise. </li>
<li>Prints reports for teacher review and for use as certificates of achievement.</li>
<li> Displays and prints item diagnostic details. </li>
<li>Uses a rating system that allows students to keep personal scores and
set goals. </li>
<li>Charts student rating progress graphically. </li>
<li>Maintains a database of student activity over time.</li>
</ul>
Our experience<br />
<br />
If you are looking for a program with bells and whistles, high resolution animation and game-like features, this is not the program. This is not a bad thing - it focuses on the math facts. I found the screen to be a little crowded and busy but this didn't seem to bother Eli who was the child I used this program with. It was simple to download and to use for both teacher and student. Once I showed him how to use it he was able to work through a session on his own. He could choose to practice, or to play for a rating where he tried to improve on his current score and reach different levels.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/CapJaxMathFax/?action=view&current=screen.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="242" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/CapJaxMathFax/screen.jpg" width="320" /></a>
The per fact timing is preset at 3 seconds but this can be adjusted in practice mode for up to 10 seconds. This will help build confidence in a child who may not be very quick to start. The play for ratings mode is set at 3 seconds and the child is provided with immediate feedback with "super" popping on to the screen when they type in a fact in less than 3 seconds and "right" for a correct answer in more than 3 seconds.<br />
<br />
Eli wasn't overly excited about <a href="http://www.capjax.com/index.php?main_page=index" target="_blank">CapJaxMAthFax</a> but he didn't dislike it. He does not have a very competitive nature so the level achievements were not a big motivator for him. He did like to see "SUPER" pop up on the screen so that kept him going through the drill. I have access to this for a few more months so it will be something we will continue to use as we try and get those facts to stick!<br />
<br />
Other info:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.capjax.com/index.php?main_page=free_evaluation" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/CapJaxMathFax/FreeEval.jpg" /></a>The program is compatible with PC and Mac and is currently available for $29.95 and there is also a free trial available.<br />
<br />
<br />
Check out their site for more information or <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785179/" target="_blank">click here</a> to see what my other crew members thought of this product.<br />
<br />
Disclaimer: As a member of the <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785179/" target="_blank">TOS crew</a>, I was give free access to this program in exchange for an honest (favourable or otherwise) review. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-36194796063539516402012-05-15T00:42:00.000-03:002012-05-22T21:35:50.669-03:00Judah Bible Curriculum: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Bible/?action=view&current=JudahBibleCurriculum-beachpicture.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="147" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Bible/JudahBibleCurriculum-beachpicture.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table class="contentpaneopen"><tbody>
<tr><td class="contentheading" width="100%"><span style="font-size: small;">What is the <a href="http://judahbible.com/" target="_blank">Judah Bible Curriculum</a>? </span></td>
<td align="right" class="buttonheading" width="100%"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://judahbible.com/index.php?option=com_mailto&tmpl=component&link=aHR0cDovL2p1ZGFoYmlibGUuY29tL2luZGV4LnBocD9vcHRpb249Y29tX2NvbnRlbnQmdmlldz1hcnRpY2xlJmlkPTY6d2hhdC1pcy10aGUtanVkYWgtYmlibGUtY3VycmljdWx1bSZjYXRpZD0xOmxhdGVzdC1uZXdzJkl0ZW1pZD01Mw==" title="E-mail"><img alt="E-mail" src="http://judahbible.com/templates/ol_xibako/images/emailButton.png" /></a></span> </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<ul><span style="font-size: small;">
<li>A Principle Approach curriculum for Bible class.</li>
<li>Develop a comprehensive knowledge of the Bible.</li>
<li>Build strong, Godly character in your children.</li>
<li>Study the Bible together.</li>
<li>Study the hand of God in the lives of individuals and nations. </li>
<li>For homeschool, Christian school, Sunday school.</li>
<li>Teach your children living Biblical principles to guide their lives.</li>
<li>Apply God’s word personally in every area of life.</li>
<li>The Bible is the textbook.</li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> From their website:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: #b6d7a8;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://judahbible.com/" target="_blank">The Judah Bible Curriculum</a> is designed to help you produce Godly character in yourself and your students.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">As educators we are seeing our kids led astray by
peers, musicians, cults, the media, the Internet, forceful and slick
authority figures, and any number of other voices. In order to survive,
our students must be able to stand on their own and truly understand the
purpose God has for their lives.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Our crucial need is to educate our students to be
Biblically literate. True literacy is more than just the ability to
read. True literacy includes having a basis in Truth and the ability to
reason from that basis to discover the answers to life's questions.</span></blockquote>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This product is more a Bible Study method guide than a curriculum. It is a training manual to teach parents how to teach the bible to their children. This is based on the Principle Approach to education. This was a philosophy I was not familiar with. If you would like more information on this you can read about it <a href="http://www.principleapproach.org/?page=principle_approach" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">What do you receive?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> 1) Judah Bible Curriculum K-12 Manual; </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2) Elementary Notebook Ideas booklet; </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3) Eight-lecture Teacher Training Seminar.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">What is the plan?</span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This curriculum is designed to be studied over 6 years, working through 5 themes per year. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Theme 1 Creation </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Theme 2 Plan of Redemption Begins </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Theme 3 Kingdom of Israel </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Theme 4 is Kingdom of God </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Theme 5 is Early Church</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Students are encouraged to develop a notebook which will be built upon each year and are based on key sheets that are filled out through out the study. These sheets outline key events, key individuals, key institutions, key documents. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">After reviewing this product on my own it was clear to me that this was not a good fit for our family at this time. When choosing any curriculum one of the major factors I need to consider is preparation time. The Judah Bible Curriculum requires considerable preparation on the part of the teacher. While time is not the only factor to consider, I eventually had to accept that this curriculum required much more of me than I was able to give. Perhaps when the kids are older and can participate more in the actual digging into the word we would have more success with this method of study. A clear, solid understanding of the principle approach is necessary, in my opinion, for the successful implementation of this program.</span><br />
<br />
Pricing:<br />
<br />
Judah Bible Curriculum Pack hard copy
$69.00, plus 5.00 p&h<br />
You get:<br />
1) Judah Bible Curriculum K-12 Manual;<br />
2) Elementary Notebook Ideas booklet;<br />
3) Eight-lecture Teacher Training Seminar on CDs.<br />
<br />
or you can get the same documents in a downloadable format for $44 <br />
<br />
You can read more reviews of this product <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/785154/" target="_blank">here</a> to help you determine if this would be a good fit for your family. <br />
<br />
<br />
Disclaimer: As a member of the <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/" target="_blank">TOS crew</a> I was given a free copy of this curriculum in exchange for my honest review. The views expressed here are solely mine.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-55796730097616499662012-04-27T00:09:00.001-03:002012-04-27T00:11:09.362-03:00Inference Jones: A Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/images/homepage/logo_yellow_bg.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.criticalthinking.com/images/homepage/logo_yellow_bg.gif" /></a></div>
For more than 50 years, <a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/index.jsp?code=c" target="_blank">The Critical Thinking Company's</a> award-winning products have helped students of all abilities achieve better grades and higher test scores with highly effective lessons that sharpen the mind as they teach standards-based reading, writing, mathematics, science, and history. Their products are fun, easy to use, and guaranteed to produce better grades and higher test scores.<br />
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<a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/index.jsp?code=c" target="_blank">The Critical Thinking Company </a>sent me a e-copy of <a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/getProductDetails.do?code=c&id=09501" target="_blank">Inference Jones</a> to review. This is a 48 page work book with 18 lessons and is available as a hard copy for $11.99.<br />
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From their website:<br />
<blockquote>
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Logic%20and%20Reasoning/?action=view&current=InferenceJones-Beginning.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Logic%20and%20Reasoning/InferenceJones-Beginning.jpg" width="153" /></a><a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/getProductDetails.do?code=c&id=09501" target="_blank">Inference Jones</a> provides short, fun, and easy-to-use activities that improve critical reading and higher order thinking by developing the student’s ability to draw inferences from written text. Research shows inferential reasoning is a prerequisite component to superior reading comprehension. The National Foundation for Educational Research concluded that "the ability to draw inferences predetermines reading skills: that is, poor inferential reasoning causes poor comprehension and not vice versa." </blockquote>
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Inference Jones: Beginning has a readability level appropriate for grades 3-4 but can also be used as a remedial resource for older students (grades 5-12+).</blockquote>
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Micaiah and I worked through several lessons which comprised of a short story and questions to follow. Here is an example:<br />
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The book was easy to use and didn't take a lot of time to complete. Micaiah who is in grade 3 had no difficulty working through the lessons independently and while he didn't beg to do them everyday, he didn't mind working on <a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/getProductDetails.do?code=c&id=09501" target="_blank">Inference Jones</a> when I asked him to. I found it to be a solid and usable product and look forward to exploring the many other resources offered by <a href="http://www.criticalthinking.com/index.jsp?code=c" target="_blank">The Critical Thinking Company.</a><br />
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<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/784905/">TOS Review team</a> I was given a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review (favourable or otherwise).</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-70124397742464361882012-04-17T11:53:00.000-03:002012-04-17T11:53:32.552-03:00Christian Kids Explore Chemistry: A ReviewBright Ideas Press sent us this e-book and resource CD to review.
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Science/Bright%20Ideas%20Press/?action=view&current=CKECFrontCover-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Science/Bright%20Ideas%20Press/CKECFrontCover-1.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
This text is part of their Christian Kids Explore Science series which cover one year each of Biology, Earth & Space, Chemistry, and Physics.<br />
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The Chemistry text includes 5 units which are broken down into 30 lessons and each lesson has 2 parts which you can teach over the week. These texts are multi-grade, the lessons are easy to prepare, and the lessons employ a combination of reading/research and hands-on activities. The material is well organized and written from a biblical world view, infused with scripture through out.<br />
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The target grade level is grade 4 to 8 but for the purpose of the review I was very easily able to adapt the lessons for Micaiah and Eli who are in Grade 3 and Grade 1.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_et3Sb01aoOwByFEMrVIi5hBeg-DK4mv82uHjI2IIX8fGkQYbIR4AaiGBBXHiWV7ohm3SDbNB8aJV-_XrAiUPdidwmAHXfY81RZLoligewlEF2_UbUQuOhfDgodxMozjVL-ubl5KE4w/s1600/P1010242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_et3Sb01aoOwByFEMrVIi5hBeg-DK4mv82uHjI2IIX8fGkQYbIR4AaiGBBXHiWV7ohm3SDbNB8aJV-_XrAiUPdidwmAHXfY81RZLoligewlEF2_UbUQuOhfDgodxMozjVL-ubl5KE4w/s320/P1010242.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">learning to interpolate (estimate a measurement)</td></tr>
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To me the best part of this package was the resource CD which included lesson plans, activity book printables, supply lists and more.<br />
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The cost of the e-book and resource CD is $39.95<br />
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All in all this is a good solid curriculum which I would definitely consider incorporating all of the subjects into our home learning environment when the kids are a bit older.<br />
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To read more reviews of Christian Kids Explore science titles, please visit the <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/784905/">TOS Crew Blog.
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<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/784905/">TOS Review team</a> I was given this curriculum in exchange for an honest review (favourable or otherwise).</i><br />
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<i> </i>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-14312483806078593722012-04-02T20:59:00.000-03:002012-04-02T21:02:06.093-03:00The Empty Tomb!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/218495019391568479_3wI73Ndz_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://wearethatfamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/218495019391568479_3wI73Ndz_f.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
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I was surfing the internet the other day looking for craft ideas for Easter. I love decorating eggs and making flowers, but I wanted something that focused on the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Just as we don't dwell on Santa Claus at Christmas, Easter at our house is not about the Easter bunny and chocolate eggs. When I stumbled upon this picture on <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2012/03/diy-mini-resurrection-garden/" target="_blank">this blog</a>, I knew this was a definite project for this year.<br />
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Last week we invited over some fellow home learners and had a fun time putting together these mini resurrection gardens. It was an opportunity to reinforce why we celebrate Easter... the resurrection of Christ, the celebration of eternal life available to those who put their trust in our risen Savior! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9QfacYq7nKo1qjIXttWBVD89oRYvOW8OGVBqVoTG10IxD4clWseiiK-280wUGEWPgoZXZ0J2e2dOrZvvJC1sbomT1sumCCM_VkEvuROp_WpQtx2fLb1JbNkt7nU3fykoFs2emz3Tcw/s1600/resurrection+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9QfacYq7nKo1qjIXttWBVD89oRYvOW8OGVBqVoTG10IxD4clWseiiK-280wUGEWPgoZXZ0J2e2dOrZvvJC1sbomT1sumCCM_VkEvuROp_WpQtx2fLb1JbNkt7nU3fykoFs2emz3Tcw/s640/resurrection+garden.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Now we are just waiting for Resurrection Day (... and the grass to grow :) What are some ways you teach your kids about Resurrection Day? I'd love to hear your ideas.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-55075149901883635282012-03-05T13:00:00.002-04:002012-03-05T13:52:20.277-04:00K5 Learning: A ReviewWe had the opportunity to review another online program over the past few weeks.
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<a href="http://www.k5learning.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/K5Learning/logo.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.k5learning.com/" target="_blank">K5 Learning</a> is an online after-school study program for kids in kindergarten to grade 5. It's aim is to build reading, math and study skills to last a lifetime. It includes 4 components:<br />
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<ol>
<li><a href="http://www.k5learning.com/reading" target="_blank">K5 Reading</a> helps kids
become strong readers and develop a love of reading. This
award-winning program covers phonemic awareness, phonics, sight words,
vocabulary and reading comprehension.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.k5learning.com/spelling" target="_blank">K5 Spelling</a>
is an advanced vocabulary program which improves language skills one
word at a time. We feature adaptive instruction, automatic word
generation, an optimized visual interface, and a 150,000+ word database.</li>
<li> <a href="http://www.k5learning.com/math-facts" target="_blank">K5 Math Facts</a>
uses adaptive technology to help kids develop instant recall of basic
addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts. Progress on
each and every math fact is monitored until mastery is obtained. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.k5learning.com/math" target="_blank">K5 Math</a> is an award-winning
program which builds self confidence and a deep understanding of math
concepts. K5 Math covers numbers and operations, geometry, measurement
(including time and money), algebraic thinking and data analysis. </li>
</ol>
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What did we think?<br />
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I was able to use K5 with Micaiah, Eli and Eden. Each child did an assessment to begin with and was place in the program at their appropriate level. The assessment was a great tool to have and was helpful to me to see that all three kids were on track and even ahead of grade level in some areas.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/K5Learning/?action=view&current=readingassessment.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="472" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/K5Learning/readingassessment.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sample assessment report</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Once logged in the kids could choose the area they wanted to work on. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo56Jx1szSkhyfYUOfLCQC3hDCYWjg4m1P3c2hBw441aiG2guCw3fJGwQUCM2a_24gGt7mQDcpXG7nILAiWFvEBY4yPEp5pKvFtLEAlJXbgCufv3TiGqKuWgULz5w9kuXQKhZ0oOzJg/s1600/Picture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo56Jx1szSkhyfYUOfLCQC3hDCYWjg4m1P3c2hBw441aiG2guCw3fJGwQUCM2a_24gGt7mQDcpXG7nILAiWFvEBY4yPEp5pKvFtLEAlJXbgCufv3TiGqKuWgULz5w9kuXQKhZ0oOzJg/s400/Picture+3.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Micaiah concentrated more on reading comprehension and vocabulary and
covered topics such as cause and effect, drawing conclusions and making
inferences, facts and opinions, poetry, sequencing and summarizing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXWfDKSuIWxuDzapKPdIVHBuAdYU0dwWnrsKKaY-X25JUnRFCnsmHPA05gJ303U4KYPdBWktYoPS0Uen6wdwv1aZOpKUmh20OMzmoe3Er0Fx6hN9m93nzh17L0eTgZaCfv9kfvkJg9w/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXWfDKSuIWxuDzapKPdIVHBuAdYU0dwWnrsKKaY-X25JUnRFCnsmHPA05gJ303U4KYPdBWktYoPS0Uen6wdwv1aZOpKUmh20OMzmoe3Er0Fx6hN9m93nzh17L0eTgZaCfv9kfvkJg9w/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Eli and Eden focused more on math. The program guides the student through each assignment and exercise using audible and visual instructions so the child is able to work independently and at his or her own pace.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0kDkKlSjgbhIWRBPFL_tNjoB02ukrFpbu73qyzbiLV9XqfYp30WRhgw6ciagbWGEbS3dJjXacBjsYxzjV7AREbkF-mojGIbAWLUW2iFlLFMsuYPoLoMxKArvWyh9vu4qJBoy-2GDVQ/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0kDkKlSjgbhIWRBPFL_tNjoB02ukrFpbu73qyzbiLV9XqfYp30WRhgw6ciagbWGEbS3dJjXacBjsYxzjV7AREbkF-mojGIbAWLUW2iFlLFMsuYPoLoMxKArvWyh9vu4qJBoy-2GDVQ/s320/Picture+6.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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One feature that I like is the Parent Dashboard where I can track their progress and assign lessons and spelling words if necessary. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XfV1MNmmuhSPsf00zOqSbOPyN1BgHhaIjpxRU1hLx34-xzwULimYEevCC0XepNg7sTLN3RUSfCOOG6xZZZ62E7YQVXBJTCZnh0SjA5iZ2lXu-XQ7Sz3mdvex0frDmMA4wgPmK4UtYQ/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XfV1MNmmuhSPsf00zOqSbOPyN1BgHhaIjpxRU1hLx34-xzwULimYEevCC0XepNg7sTLN3RUSfCOOG6xZZZ62E7YQVXBJTCZnh0SjA5iZ2lXu-XQ7Sz3mdvex0frDmMA4wgPmK4UtYQ/s400/Picture+7.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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All in all this is a good program. I didn't like some of the tactics they use for teaching addition as they seemed to confuse Eli but I really did like the reading comprehension lessons that Micaiah worked on. If you are looking for a program to supplement your homeschool learning enviroment or as an afterschool program to use at home take a look at K5. Their website has sample lessons and more detailed information about the program. You can also sign up for a <a href="https://www.k5learning.com/subscription/trial" target="_blank">2 week trial </a>to see if it is right for you and your child.<br />
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The pricing of this product is as follows:<br />
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/K5Learning/?action=view&current=facebookfooter_0.gif" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="112" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/K5Learning/facebookfooter_0.gif" width="200" /></a>Pricing</div>
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Monthly Subscription</div>
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First Child.......................$25</div>
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Additional Children..........$15</div>
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Annual Subscription</div>
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First Child.......................$199</div>
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Additional Children..........$129</div>
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See what other families thought of K5. <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/784631/" target="_blank">Click Here</a>!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a>
review team, I was given short term access to the program in return for
my honest (positive or otherwise) opinion of this product.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-6395823006817736272012-03-03T23:43:00.001-04:002012-03-03T23:46:12.150-04:00100 Days and a Whole Lot of Glass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
We recently reached our 100th day of school and in order to celebrate this I wanted to make something special with the kids, something unique. I was having trouble thinking of the perfect craft and then I stumbled upon <a href="http://layeredsoul.com/sea-glass-u-s-a-map/2012/02/" target="_blank">this sea glass map</a> from<a href="http://layeredsoul.com/" target="_blank"> Layered Soul</a>. As soon as I saw it I knew what we should do {Hey, I shamelessly admit that my best ideas are not my own!}<br />
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So here's how we celebrated our 100th day of school...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lDSJcHFGXbsIJyTZ9zKWpKpOGovMFAyXqvCIP2PVIvj01pBpISKwYbO2RBSQaMrFfAwIzAtnJ1yVXPgVnDnY0XqWvgnoWLM7x0SeVLnSpsRs7If8LJMcvcLb__Mtd9-yjVt3PhMgpw/s1600/collecting+sea+glass+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lDSJcHFGXbsIJyTZ9zKWpKpOGovMFAyXqvCIP2PVIvj01pBpISKwYbO2RBSQaMrFfAwIzAtnJ1yVXPgVnDnY0XqWvgnoWLM7x0SeVLnSpsRs7If8LJMcvcLb__Mtd9-yjVt3PhMgpw/s400/collecting+sea+glass+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collecting the sea glass</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUFX3f2N7jwW60IXWyAcX3kpe0XiMm0kgDA8uj757hs1_Zbfd2uSorlq4xslTSUWQmESdYKHWvk1JhT_OU-Gx8XHYKQI5pcYuylhCY4Gl5f7PNwHZ6WcuvfieGRFvm-0yiTZFcC0C2A/s1600/sorted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUFX3f2N7jwW60IXWyAcX3kpe0XiMm0kgDA8uj757hs1_Zbfd2uSorlq4xslTSUWQmESdYKHWvk1JhT_OU-Gx8XHYKQI5pcYuylhCY4Gl5f7PNwHZ6WcuvfieGRFvm-0yiTZFcC0C2A/s400/sorted.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sorted and counted</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOw3s4kTgXQ_aT_PiXY9YuNq1haW2n_nSxSzKvqN-3zdSk7dZxxazqRn28yMOWIyRmCvIyISlStqpWa2uIUHclrRrJW79Xt1H0nFpTp5N29zNmTJG7wJwXuQScuct5JcI2WwunPnuTEQ/s1600/weighed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOw3s4kTgXQ_aT_PiXY9YuNq1haW2n_nSxSzKvqN-3zdSk7dZxxazqRn28yMOWIyRmCvIyISlStqpWa2uIUHclrRrJW79Xt1H0nFpTp5N29zNmTJG7wJwXuQScuct5JcI2WwunPnuTEQ/s400/weighed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eli wanted to know how much it all weighed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">laying it out</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZwi0AqeaOHoSeFO-2NYQprsfFz93wt82mFh8LbsAzJ4STp-bkkY3t7GIi1aMJF8QSZTQNNkD4FfMowMmegExvY9UB5QyV624Wysowdy1G1CyrzUEyQav7Ti1QQpptPFGTVMLeTA_ow/s1600/the+end+result+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptKLFbrf6bQQ6C_SeCrlnP6ET5EMA7hpln71OLR-V1uPGRX1q6gaS0NMoN-DzjiVPb0dNXsqx0i8vMZa1H_5Evr9yf2naKtzPelcLIfQgtS_oVZdTe_q6MIzBBhOQQkx8g2KDrea6eg/s1600/putting+it+together.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOw3s4kTgXQ_aT_PiXY9YuNq1haW2n_nSxSzKvqN-3zdSk7dZxxazqRn28yMOWIyRmCvIyISlStqpWa2uIUHclrRrJW79Xt1H0nFpTp5N29zNmTJG7wJwXuQScuct5JcI2WwunPnuTEQ/s1600/weighed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZwi0AqeaOHoSeFO-2NYQprsfFz93wt82mFh8LbsAzJ4STp-bkkY3t7GIi1aMJF8QSZTQNNkD4FfMowMmegExvY9UB5QyV624Wysowdy1G1CyrzUEyQav7Ti1QQpptPFGTVMLeTA_ow/s1600/the+end+result+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZwi0AqeaOHoSeFO-2NYQprsfFz93wt82mFh8LbsAzJ4STp-bkkY3t7GIi1aMJF8QSZTQNNkD4FfMowMmegExvY9UB5QyV624Wysowdy1G1CyrzUEyQav7Ti1QQpptPFGTVMLeTA_ow/s400/the+end+result+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the end result</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHYqzZsGm-a_osshvM6CASdsnGwX7HvxrZX1irhz26bRwg5g9nBJ_oDfwM35igEHeIphVdG0-Usoh8eWHVprrF3qO5Cj9hynkxgA0mnO3muJQ70kkhjPNSR2EVCeArhptDtjZ42H2LQ/s1600/the+end+result.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHYqzZsGm-a_osshvM6CASdsnGwX7HvxrZX1irhz26bRwg5g9nBJ_oDfwM35igEHeIphVdG0-Usoh8eWHVprrF3qO5Cj9hynkxgA0mnO3muJQ70kkhjPNSR2EVCeArhptDtjZ42H2LQ/s400/the+end+result.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our sea glass map of Bermuda</td></tr>
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I think it turned out great!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a><br />
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<br />Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-26943790585932574592012-03-01T00:00:00.001-04:002012-03-01T00:00:18.822-04:00Reading Eggs: A Review<a href="http://readingeggs.com/home" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/reading_eggs_small_logo.gif" /></a>
When I first considered homeschooling I didn't imagine the vast amount of resources available for home learners. This year we have been exposed to a number of online resources which have been an added bonus to our regular curriculum. One of these programs is called <a href="http://readingeggs.com/home" target="_blank">Reading Eggs</a>. Reading Eggs is a unique online world where children learn to read. It supports each child’s learning by offering individual, one-on-one lessons that allow children to progress at their own rate. The program is designed for 4-8 year olds who want to learn to read. It begins at an absolute beginner level, so children need no prior knowledge to start. The Reading Eggs program has been developed by a highly experienced team of teachers, educational writers, animators and web developers.<br />
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How does Reading Eggs work?<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/?action=view&current=reading_eggs_map.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/reading_eggs_map.jpg" width="320" /></a> The program begins with a reading assessment (if your child has no prior reading experience you can opt for them not to take the assessment and just start with the first lesson.) The result of the assessment determines where your child will begin and they are give a map to view and track their own progress. Each map consists of 10 lessons and the lessons are made up of several activities that the child needs to complete each day. The student progresses in order, they are not allowed by the program to skip ahead. (The parent can change the level if necessary). <br />
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/?action=view&current=reading_eggs_screenshot.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="198" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/reading_eggs_screenshot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Once the assessment is complete, the child<b> </b> works through animated online lessons where they learn essential
reading skills. The variety of fun activities within each lesson
provides the repetition needed for these skills to become part of the
child’s long term memory. There are 120 lessons for the child to work through, taking them from beginners to early readers who are building confidence. Children gain confidence by reading books online that only contain
words they have already learned in the program. Along the way the child will earn golden eggs as rewards for work completed and they use these eggs to buy reward games. After 10 lessons, children complete a Mastery Quiz and these results are made available through a personalized email to the parent so you can track your child's progress. <br />
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In addition, Reading Eggs has spelling component and there is also a program for older children called <span class="caps">ABC</span> Reading Eggspress which is designed to build
reading and comprehension skills, for students in grades 2-7 (7-13 year
olds).<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxFJdelZYPo3MborrMpblwxuNSPfpdzBAcmkGhHSfrEw9DN_ltp3NtGV1DS4KCDQxcK-POJLCDNO6WWK6ZxbnqCU-1CpHmJpLN6lmoQ9tkPJrmec93hpJFamuwSagK_Nk5cEk0xfilg/s1600/P2280578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTxFJdelZYPo3MborrMpblwxuNSPfpdzBAcmkGhHSfrEw9DN_ltp3NtGV1DS4KCDQxcK-POJLCDNO6WWK6ZxbnqCU-1CpHmJpLN6lmoQ9tkPJrmec93hpJFamuwSagK_Nk5cEk0xfilg/s320/P2280578.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>What did we think?</b><br />
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When we were given a free trial I decided to use it with Eli. Eden would have benefited from the program but she was already doing an online reading program. Eli is a fairly confident reader and whizzed through the assessment. He was place on map 8 to start with, skipping the first 70 lessons. Even so, the lessons were not very challenging for him. I was tempted to adjust the level but he was happy to complete the lessons and I figured the reinforcement of the phonics skills he learned last year was not a bad thing. He has enjoyed working through his maps and asks most days if he can go on Reading Eggs. The program is easy to use and navigate and although it is online it is safe and advertisment free. <br />
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All in all I found it to be a good solid reading program. I may consider using it for Eden once she finishes her current reading program. It is a fun program to get kids excited about reading and would be a good for any child (home-schooled or not) who is ready to learn to read.<br />
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Pricing is as follows:<br />
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There is a <a href="http://readingeggs.com/beta/parent/signup" target="_blank">14-day free trial available</a>, so there is no risk with Reading Eggs. <a href="http://readingeggs.com/beta/about/pricing" target="_blank">Subscriptions</a> are available in the following options:<br />
<ul>
<li>12 months for $75 (add a second or third child at 50% off)</li>
<li>6 months for $49.95 (add a second or third child at 50% off)</li>
<li>Monthly for $9.95</li>
</ul>
To learn more about Reading Eggs, be sure to visit their <a href="http://readingeggs.com/levels" target="_blank">website</a>. Take a look <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/784619/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see what other families thought of Reading Eggs!<br />
<strong></strong>
<a href="http://readingeggs.com/home" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Reading%20and%20Phonics/Reading%20Eggs/reading_eggs_logo.png" /></a><br />
<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a>
review team, I was given short term access to the program in return for
my honest (positive or otherwise) opinion of this product.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-68965191910459660992012-02-26T20:16:00.001-04:002012-02-26T20:16:27.462-04:00For the bad days...Sometimes I read blogs where it seems like the author never has a bad day. Life is perfect, their kids are perfect, the are the most crafty (in the arts and crafts sense), most spiritual, there homes are immaculate, and they never lose their cool. It is so easy for bloggers, myself included, to only document the good times, the crafts that worked, the angelic behaviours of our kids. Sometimes we live double lives.. the blog world and the real world. <br />
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So it was refreshing to read this post a couple days ago... <a href="http://www.kimvanbrunt.com/2012/02/when-motherhood-feels-like-misery/" target="_blank">"When Motherhood feels like Misery"</a>. I could completely relate to the young mother who wrote it. Yes, I am admitting that there are days that I don't want to be a mom. There are days that I sit and try and figure out how I can run away...seriously I do. There are days I yell way too much, days that the house is turned upside down and I have no desire to turn it right way up, days that I am so overwhelmed that I can't think straight. <br />
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Have you been there?<br />
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Praise God we don't have to stay there... God gives us these tough times so we can learn to trust him.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: cyan;">There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while.</span><b style="background-color: cyan;"> <span class="reftext"></span>These
trials will show that your faith is genuine.</b><span style="background-color: cyan;"> It is being tested as fire
tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than
mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it
will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus
Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1: 6-7 NLT </span></blockquote>
How is God teaching me to get through tough times?<br />
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I need to remember to <b>stay in the race...</b> This is the mission God has give me... he has blessed me with these kids and given me the role of mom and the task of raising them. The Christian life is not a sprint, it is a marathon... a long distance race. When I am feeling down in the dumps, the one thing my husband always asks is "have you had your quiet time?" and strongly encourages me to do so if I haven't <i>(Husbands... did you get that? Lead and encourage your wives... I truly appreciate Joe's spiritual leadership)</i>. I don't know about you but for me it is very easy to slack off bible reading and prayer time when I am feeling bad or having a rough time. I have learned though, that this is the worst thing to do. Just like marathon running, if you stop moving, it is hard to get going again. Even when it feels like you are just going through the motions, go through the motions! <br />
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It was during one of these"going-through-the-motions-times" recently that God spoke to me through His word. I was having a bad week.. one of those "how-can-I-escape" weeks. I felt depleted... I knew that I was doing what God wanted me to but I was not really enjoying where he had me. <br />
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I was studying Psalm 51 and I came across verse 12.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: cyan;">
<b>Restore</b> to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to <b>sustain</b> me. </blockquote>
Sometimes I try to fix how I am feeling but this verse was reminding me to ask God to restore and sustain. <b>He</b> provides a willing spirit to sustain me. I was meditating on this for a while and then I read on to the next verse. King David, the psalmist wasn't asking for the restoration of joy and to be sustained by God only for his own personal satisfaction... read it...<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: cyan;"><b>THEN </b>I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you.</span><span class="versiontext" style="background-color: cyan;"></span><span style="background-color: cyan;"> </span></blockquote>
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As I meditated on this I changed verse 13 to say this:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: orange;">Then I will teach my kids your ways
so that my kids will turn to you.</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(they are transgressors and sinners that need to be turned to God right?!)</i></span> </blockquote>
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This was such a reminder to me of <b>why </b>I am doing what I am doing.. to teach my kids they ways of God so that they will turn to him. If I keep that as my focus instead of how hard it is, I can keep going.<br />
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In addition to staying in God's word, trusting him and focusing on why I am doing what I am doing, I have learned some other ways to get through those tough motherhood days and weeks:<br />
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Know when to take a break. Some days when things are not going well, I call it quits, I put on a dvd for the kids and give myself a time out. <br />
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Examine your schedule. If you are feeling frazzled, chances are you are doing too much. I tend to have overly high expectations of what can get done in a day. We have to learn how to manage our expectations. Someone once told me "There are a lot of things that are good to do but not everything is BEST for you and your family." Get in the habit of weeding out the things that are only good and ask God to help you determine what is best.<br />
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Don't compare yourself to anyone. God has made you who you are and has a specific will for you. We all have a different calling, different gifts, different strengths and weaknesses...and that is okay! <br />
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Have a support system and know when to ask for and accept help. We want to see ourselves as superwomen and try and do it all ourselves. Society and culture have taught us that strength is in independence... I can do it by myself, I don't need anyone. We see it as a flaw to ask for help or accept it when offered. It is not strength, it is pride. Whether it is calling a prayer partner to pray for you or asking someone to watch the kids for an hour or two so you can get away or saying yes when someone comes to visit and offers to wash your dishes... learn how to ask for and accept help. <br />
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Motherhood is the toughest job I have ever had, it is a high calling and thankfully one I don't have to do alone and neither do you. If you are frazzled, stressed out, not enjoying the journey call on God to restore and sustain your joy. He is faithful to answer.<br />
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Be blessed,<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-27553604488785249322012-02-17T06:00:00.000-04:002012-02-17T06:00:11.288-04:00Our Week in Pictures: The Great Outdoors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am trying to do a better job at capturing our life in pictures this year. This week we spent a lot of time outside (taking advantage of this mild February!!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdCMdC3-1DtOf65t4F7OQ909GrgLGYKpLbXOJ-wN1DpFL6FB1LeEEKhsuE53mLEbCyvzmC6M0SdH1U2welTzDy5besFsUlZuLWiZTCzldJ-IQJ8qKRJdbHO8CiT3fxKhT6wLO1UB7XA/s1600/P2110157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdCMdC3-1DtOf65t4F7OQ909GrgLGYKpLbXOJ-wN1DpFL6FB1LeEEKhsuE53mLEbCyvzmC6M0SdH1U2welTzDy5besFsUlZuLWiZTCzldJ-IQJ8qKRJdbHO8CiT3fxKhT6wLO1UB7XA/s400/P2110157.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Micaiah: "You can grow a kid in these pots!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIEUFiOH3jt6xQE8wdsF-EE-i1eI6njzvaoTfamD978uLcb7sOHkZ5e4flWBdvvU3p4-8GeEEyj2gncMzx76irmOfqfwc9_Nwl7Wmaqd-wl5IiBK2P79rw_Dwq5uXQPEjE5b3umxYQg/s1600/P2110163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIEUFiOH3jt6xQE8wdsF-EE-i1eI6njzvaoTfamD978uLcb7sOHkZ5e4flWBdvvU3p4-8GeEEyj2gncMzx76irmOfqfwc9_Nwl7Wmaqd-wl5IiBK2P79rw_Dwq5uXQPEjE5b3umxYQg/s400/P2110163.JPG" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come with me...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpDOoQJpzf2rZoSuXIy6Tz2NmFayHvSp7IxIBigMzACPivU5DH4Iy7amlX_24Jmnkgn_wslhJplX3JF-MPcRXhZ8981ggSFYA5RQcx3G4KM-hRL7zE486x0VL1dJSrD4158Dr6kb1oA/s1600/P2110184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpDOoQJpzf2rZoSuXIy6Tz2NmFayHvSp7IxIBigMzACPivU5DH4Iy7amlX_24Jmnkgn_wslhJplX3JF-MPcRXhZ8981ggSFYA5RQcx3G4KM-hRL7zE486x0VL1dJSrD4158Dr6kb1oA/s400/P2110184.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus: "Do I have to be here"</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iYLktax47nJmk8ndpid8-qe_nxd9mBQBuNH-ONvoWKZUwvvWXw0QHwziAZGzj2By9-ONCLRM24t5fb_8eSQkC177l4HRjb6Cp4IIzi8_T7CBPuBF2thpcbW8lmQE80kooTJCUYrUAg/s1600/P2130215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iYLktax47nJmk8ndpid8-qe_nxd9mBQBuNH-ONvoWKZUwvvWXw0QHwziAZGzj2By9-ONCLRM24t5fb_8eSQkC177l4HRjb6Cp4IIzi8_T7CBPuBF2thpcbW8lmQE80kooTJCUYrUAg/s400/P2130215.JPG" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">visiting the Wheddons</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5CYj9UnxINY60nWt9S0j58f8W5P-tULsXm92eElrsLDdcdwc1ZPBmWbjYzKyyP8j-1C_YQnfZfdpTzBfo_lEmJppMT-e0R7Z4kKvVYC5xxhyphenhyphen6LwC3IAaPTBkr73IFtMLuilAnhxl1w/s1600/P2130221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5CYj9UnxINY60nWt9S0j58f8W5P-tULsXm92eElrsLDdcdwc1ZPBmWbjYzKyyP8j-1C_YQnfZfdpTzBfo_lEmJppMT-e0R7Z4kKvVYC5xxhyphenhyphen6LwC3IAaPTBkr73IFtMLuilAnhxl1w/s400/P2130221.JPG" width="341" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cluck cluck...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zwZJnbRBwsCEN-pAfSrcdIKKjC2rs2kXX3OUEhHlw_de0vqFixwKXJ3JRKKs0Q4QQfhY_4f42Xsk9qQK0OOomBM0knBdXnzXGc4AyJijy3xIjpoNOCJyQzxQ8rCFXI95s7zjbUeabA/s1600/P2140273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zwZJnbRBwsCEN-pAfSrcdIKKjC2rs2kXX3OUEhHlw_de0vqFixwKXJ3JRKKs0Q4QQfhY_4f42Xsk9qQK0OOomBM0knBdXnzXGc4AyJijy3xIjpoNOCJyQzxQ8rCFXI95s7zjbUeabA/s400/P2140273.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eli giving Marcus a Pillbug (Rollie Pollie)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpCozsDVvzTbyCpeZ0FcpmRj5YOuMXApxnKbw6QslDFlkTjmwuVQc-6Pf-lgMuO_nZt25gkhWUN29a12U1fK6Mb1OIWJp6WjwOLfDSQptvGVW5tt4NqfLLOMSJV_KKY-phxhhYN4VAg/s1600/P2140296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpCozsDVvzTbyCpeZ0FcpmRj5YOuMXApxnKbw6QslDFlkTjmwuVQc-6Pf-lgMuO_nZt25gkhWUN29a12U1fK6Mb1OIWJp6WjwOLfDSQptvGVW5tt4NqfLLOMSJV_KKY-phxhhYN4VAg/s400/P2140296.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moo...</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEQCGBOm3gAOPk7jQDocr28osIaejdWWydDeviHn47hjkOYUm9Hh9H5lzg4tAKBNqyGk8hRVRPkXifJhg3dz3QZT8SxoH9LpPLDgl8afDcs2TT7AnTxfiEqGyvFoLw3LubmB2Ptpskw/s1600/P2140309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEQCGBOm3gAOPk7jQDocr28osIaejdWWydDeviHn47hjkOYUm9Hh9H5lzg4tAKBNqyGk8hRVRPkXifJhg3dz3QZT8SxoH9LpPLDgl8afDcs2TT7AnTxfiEqGyvFoLw3LubmB2Ptpskw/s400/P2140309.JPG" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentine Party</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9gE1ZvV8o5312p39V2L0Lx7l9KfcDVDB1zohXVDCYcqTb8sSdlJYn-tAE9i5Y_CcZqc2f64rqnZEY0rWbnBMrpkcOZNaxM9uCEPuxt3h2IZAVNoFNo4nNuW5vfGVirzAMrOy7xwiCA/s1600/P2140307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9gE1ZvV8o5312p39V2L0Lx7l9KfcDVDB1zohXVDCYcqTb8sSdlJYn-tAE9i5Y_CcZqc2f64rqnZEY0rWbnBMrpkcOZNaxM9uCEPuxt3h2IZAVNoFNo4nNuW5vfGVirzAMrOy7xwiCA/s400/P2140307.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">y.u.m.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELG9xaBdV-UOPfzhoc5sLinaXhlCSTwFQ_P4n3AFPsJ8pd-j2A3f3q6XqhLCAY7LCSK-J9iZ8poARq-MAHOyBeF2EJTAnEIxjtF6SLz2IRVbc6nd6cEwkM8bT0io3a0vH_aknA_YpJg/s1600/P2150319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELG9xaBdV-UOPfzhoc5sLinaXhlCSTwFQ_P4n3AFPsJ8pd-j2A3f3q6XqhLCAY7LCSK-J9iZ8poARq-MAHOyBeF2EJTAnEIxjtF6SLz2IRVbc6nd6cEwkM8bT0io3a0vH_aknA_YpJg/s400/P2150319.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">seesaw up and down...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKJPaltop1z0LBSfo1la_R5qI20nUGlQPqAEeJBjDDsGTOeVmxOK4K4G9C5yVvU3wFX7ANnaCpLik5jOdq_n9R2SGaSYPWw2ohSI_q_72I1AHAaeJFhfr2Fw0j2wBfzVZWll8v4MkYw/s1600/P2150329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrKJPaltop1z0LBSfo1la_R5qI20nUGlQPqAEeJBjDDsGTOeVmxOK4K4G9C5yVvU3wFX7ANnaCpLik5jOdq_n9R2SGaSYPWw2ohSI_q_72I1AHAaeJFhfr2Fw0j2wBfzVZWll8v4MkYw/s400/P2150329.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">varoom...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRojen7UzsJy9gJ2dqrE1M_eLXs0TSgqh3RuJg2t9CiwejYRUMaaY3z-gILOuq_zW_FMhNXt6jSWFCmiU_KTcFUu42mf68eqHgfVwrkN6xE0hDwZJjhB03aB8yb0Tjits-FMaLMmxl1Q/s1600/P2160336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRojen7UzsJy9gJ2dqrE1M_eLXs0TSgqh3RuJg2t9CiwejYRUMaaY3z-gILOuq_zW_FMhNXt6jSWFCmiU_KTcFUu42mf68eqHgfVwrkN6xE0hDwZJjhB03aB8yb0Tjits-FMaLMmxl1Q/s400/P2160336.JPG" width="187" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wheee...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtrpWNteQptJGQEdngOuE-q1DMiZz0v80dvFXMV2FZpohajwxI9xUw5xG322iz_gr3b_5Ib6QRZdkkOgy8ywxhzy9ndavqu_G79sJBMQy0TC-PC24OY4SCLc3j510nlMBTb311wUWMQ/s1600/P2160338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtrpWNteQptJGQEdngOuE-q1DMiZz0v80dvFXMV2FZpohajwxI9xUw5xG322iz_gr3b_5Ib6QRZdkkOgy8ywxhzy9ndavqu_G79sJBMQy0TC-PC24OY4SCLc3j510nlMBTb311wUWMQ/s400/P2160338.JPG" width="203" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">swinging high...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIGED9iT0JSWscVc_htxPITGezCSTjmrYaSn9AvR4qZgwKRH4wiGB6UNaHdg_h5NgqqesTVq9vDLxeJMDOVOM5eZzvbdBmGxoigzzyoayFznsr-2uw-3D0Y9cad4tLq7hr_yGqibBsw/s1600/P2160353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIGED9iT0JSWscVc_htxPITGezCSTjmrYaSn9AvR4qZgwKRH4wiGB6UNaHdg_h5NgqqesTVq9vDLxeJMDOVOM5eZzvbdBmGxoigzzyoayFznsr-2uw-3D0Y9cad4tLq7hr_yGqibBsw/s400/P2160353.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cutie patootie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFslrKFn2-DrJh3qyT1hxDZbQO2YK-MxpogNtg17PWa_HfUybnsLSk66rMdXY2WNZbVJnztBSQNzcBWjtEsNnPs8r9bs9ybMnquksUmUF1_s9r9poud9dT9YwOIckrX0YtWqK3RVq7w/s1600/P2160355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFslrKFn2-DrJh3qyT1hxDZbQO2YK-MxpogNtg17PWa_HfUybnsLSk66rMdXY2WNZbVJnztBSQNzcBWjtEsNnPs8r9bs9ybMnquksUmUF1_s9r9poud9dT9YwOIckrX0YtWqK3RVq7w/s400/P2160355.JPG" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">boy time at the park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigs6wvOsImrNTaOzLl1mebANjv9aLvjMXDVicSGNis_w_qEfKcPIBXfWWXPZ1ErtvZNTnifHgBcW8AtFxmpr_fyYMO3hns2bMS0wpeHq4NbPH-39Lv729Vo6zdnFio9nCGfn5fkJOow/s1600/P2160360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigs6wvOsImrNTaOzLl1mebANjv9aLvjMXDVicSGNis_w_qEfKcPIBXfWWXPZ1ErtvZNTnifHgBcW8AtFxmpr_fyYMO3hns2bMS0wpeHq4NbPH-39Lv729Vo6zdnFio9nCGfn5fkJOow/s400/P2160360.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZeMLGsKZD_7LvPqSJTZXAeu-JO36ENlQ5X5qFWx0-aUTl-ndSPoBKbmfWwQxRYYGm-Ngci58iZQ9_mAda0KmzJq0246SeoRYGrQwvtIVXwOa4koWu7trvvo2Rl9xtJAB65IC8oIkrA/s1600/P2160372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZeMLGsKZD_7LvPqSJTZXAeu-JO36ENlQ5X5qFWx0-aUTl-ndSPoBKbmfWwQxRYYGm-Ngci58iZQ9_mAda0KmzJq0246SeoRYGrQwvtIVXwOa4koWu7trvvo2Rl9xtJAB65IC8oIkrA/s400/P2160372.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">helping Daddy put air in the car tires</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><span id="goog_988526024"></span><span id="goog_988526025"></span><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-54172556937450773232012-02-15T09:04:00.000-04:002012-02-15T09:14:37.146-04:00ALEKS: A ReviewWe had a great program to review, it is probably one of my favourites so far. Allow me to introduce you to ALEKS!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/?action=view&current=logo_tophcache20110811.gif" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/logo_tophcache20110811.gif" /></a> <b>What is <a href="http://www.aleks.com/" target="_blank">ALEKS?</a> </b><i>(from the website)</i><b><br />A</b>ssessment and <b>LE</b>arning in <b>K</b>nowledge <b>S</b>paces
is a Web-based, artificially intelligent assessment and learning
system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately
determine exactly what a student knows and doesn't know in a course.
ALEKS then instructs the student on the topics she is most ready to
learn. As a student works through a course, ALEKS periodically
reassesses the student to ensure that topics learned are also retained.
ALEKS courses are very complete in their topic coverage and ALEKS avoids
multiple-choice questions.<br />
<br />
When I was first given the opportunity to review this I wasn't sure I wanted to review another math product as we have had several this year. I am so glad I did. I enrolled Micaiah in the program and the first thing the student does is an assessment. Once this assessment was completed he was given a pie chart of his knowledge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4OATItucfRHSrfO0CkmDM1U38UvXNiqtLn6X64Lhq_6yvHSL0nWTonnatMPWIonfy5Oxa8IDnGU3DwT8kCgjr9Sd3OQBXoMKfMGNrsNhTA-f7o2y-bpYbcp306wbWaIkproG2lNPeQ/s1600/Picture+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy4OATItucfRHSrfO0CkmDM1U38UvXNiqtLn6X64Lhq_6yvHSL0nWTonnatMPWIonfy5Oxa8IDnGU3DwT8kCgjr9Sd3OQBXoMKfMGNrsNhTA-f7o2y-bpYbcp306wbWaIkproG2lNPeQ/s400/Picture+2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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There are several courses you can choose from covering Elementary Math up to higher level Math, Science and Business. Micaiah's topics for grade 3 covered Fractions and Decimals, Place Value and Money, Addition and Subtraction, Geometry, Measurement and Graphs, and Multiplication and Division.<br />
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Once Micaiah looked as his pie, he was able to click on each slice and choose a topic from that section to work on. I allowed him to work through his pie at his own pace covering whatever topics he wanted each day. He usually worked for 30 minutes to an hour. This program is great for kids who are highly motivated and like checklists so it was perfect for Micaiah.<br />
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Here is an example of a question:<br />
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/?action=view&current=IU_Master_QuickTour_001_lrg.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="248" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/IU_Master_QuickTour_001_lrg.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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After 10 days this is what his pie looked like:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ZGqghEKyFKPa_oR-B951e2pdS01x2je9su45mOWaYygI3QE7upjY9ScJUd1TsK_3KWSbZWn2txPZo49-4TJX1P_kiLhfP-mSDiKNvkbqgyB2E0NXAg6AuPtt7qm7gTg0FmIyO0OyA/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ZGqghEKyFKPa_oR-B951e2pdS01x2je9su45mOWaYygI3QE7upjY9ScJUd1TsK_3KWSbZWn2txPZo49-4TJX1P_kiLhfP-mSDiKNvkbqgyB2E0NXAg6AuPtt7qm7gTg0FmIyO0OyA/s400/Picture+5.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Seeing the progress motivated him to work hard. He continued through a learning, assessment and review cycle until achieving mastery in all sections. He was quite proud when is pie was completed!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkiF6IYBmcQ2AgwJlcKSs2ywFOoWun9x7iwngiPkhMVUtfcgfPRK6I3cmjJQkD6K8xxl1noiowJgJXCMNQw9YpDcEM7Yu_8K7XE7DKCTwLCNvYD_wrzrJBja9MM5gleQRknOSSLoRcA/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitkiF6IYBmcQ2AgwJlcKSs2ywFOoWun9x7iwngiPkhMVUtfcgfPRK6I3cmjJQkD6K8xxl1noiowJgJXCMNQw9YpDcEM7Yu_8K7XE7DKCTwLCNvYD_wrzrJBja9MM5gleQRknOSSLoRcA/s400/Picture+6.png" width="400" /></a>The program has an additional feature called Quick Tables. <span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span>Quick Tables is a math fact mastery program
for multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction for grades 3 and
up. The online program offers ongoing assessment, learning, review, and
visual tracking of student progress. Here is a look at the quick tables report for division for Micaiah. Since we had just stated division in math Quick Tables was a great reinforcement and opportunity to practice.<br />
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This again is self paced with highly visual results to motivate the student to achieve more. An additional motivation was games that were unlocked as they made progress. They were games that helped to build the math skill being worked on.<br />
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/?action=view&current=Student-Account_QT-Games.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="295" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/Student-Account_QT-Games.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In addition to the online activities and learning, I was able to download worksheets for Micaiah to work on based on the topics he was working on. I could also customize a quiz for him to take if we wanted to concentrate on specific topics. Detailed reports on progress, time spent on the program and topics needing review were readily available and accessible me as the parent. I was even able to set a weekly email to be sent to Joe so he also could track Micaiah's progress.<br />
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Micaiah's Thoughts:<br />
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"Aleks was fun and I enjoyed finishing my pie. It was challenging in the beginning but got easier as I went along."<br />
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Aleks is useful addition to any math program your child is currently using. It certainly does help to fill in the gaps. <br />
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A subscription to ALEKS is<br />
<ul>
<li>$19.95 per student, per month, or<br /><br />
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<li>only $99.95 every 6 months, or<br /><br />
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<li>only $179.95 every 12 months.</li>
</ul>
They also offer a <a href="http://www.aleks.com/homeschool/buy_aleks_now_family_discount">family discount
program</a>.<br />
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Think you want to give it a try? They are offering a free 2 month free trial! Click the button below. <br />
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<a href="http://www.aleks.com/webform/c214" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Online%20Resources/Homeschool-Banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a>
review team, I was given a short subscription in return for
my honest (positive or otherwise) opinion of this product.</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-70350844952891794462012-02-12T00:35:00.000-04:002012-02-12T01:04:31.575-04:00The PERFECT Planner<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTvjhB2XoYTBigZ9AiTLsTJO2tHoPK_GvygxPZ9Wwp4HgJxFnBW3DoF0lLLjBTSWr4Qsx2fgdHT0rCEs2mBVsKzCe0utwGoDNebKF8wneElhDPI2VHS-UEXPaau-EuRG5sgMIBOP-vQ/s1600/P2110197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTvjhB2XoYTBigZ9AiTLsTJO2tHoPK_GvygxPZ9Wwp4HgJxFnBW3DoF0lLLjBTSWr4Qsx2fgdHT0rCEs2mBVsKzCe0utwGoDNebKF8wneElhDPI2VHS-UEXPaau-EuRG5sgMIBOP-vQ/s200/P2110197.JPG" width="200" /></a>I am not a shopper. I get very little joy from buying new clothes, shoes, jewelry, accessories but the things I am a sucker for are things like journals, notebooks, pens and planners. I could spend hours and lots of money in a stationery store. For me there's nothing like starting a new planner or writing on the first page of a new journal. So when I stumbled upon <a href="http://erincondren.com/" target="_blank">erincondren.com</a> it was love at first sight! This company sells, amongst many other things, personalized notebooks and planners. I have been trying to find the perfect planner so when I saw the 2012 Life Planner, I really wanted it (I know it is February and I probably should have had something for the beginning of the year but hey, better late than never!) I was so excited to place the order... it cost me an arm and a leg for shipping but my hubby agreed to let me splurge a bit (Thanks Babe!) </div>
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And then I had to wait for the package to arrive. I am not the most patient person so I obsessively checked the Fedex tracking site until it landed!</div>
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I knew the package would be delivered on Thursday and in my perfect world this is how it would go: </div>
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The package would arrive and my lovely, well behaved children would be busy with their school work, Marcus would be napping, I would whisk the package away from the Fed ex guy (thanking him of course) sit down with my freshly made caramel latte, put my feet up and enjoy ripping open the package. I would spend the next ten minutes exploring my beautiful new Erin Condren 2012 Life Planner and another 30 minutes filling in all of our appointment, birthdays, soccer practices, ballet lessons...you get the picture... </div>
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This my friends is what really happened. It was Thursday, so that meant my father in law was over to give music lessons to the kids. One child who will remain unnamed had decided that today was not a good day for music lessons and then proceeded to go to their room and slam the door. The next child was called for their lesson. I went to deal with the door slamming stubborn child while leaving the third child to keep an eye on Marcus who was now 20 minutes late for his nap but needed to have a diaper change. In the midst of the disciplinary session I hear "Mommy! There are 3 people at the door!" being shouted through the house. I wondering how big this life planner is that it takes 3 people to deliver it...I know my life is busy but the planner does need to fit in my purse! I leave a "now crying, not so stubborn, sorry he slammed the door" child in room to think about his behaviour. As I walk briskly through the kitchen towards the front door I notice that the child who was supposed to be keeping an eye on Marcus had dumped a cup full of flour on the counter and was now proceeding to sweep it everywhere with a pastry brush (did I mention I was making cookies in the midst of this all?) Marcus was at the door, ready to greet the three people with a sagging diaper, now 30 minutes past his naptime. My father in law has thankfully made it to the door ahead of me and nicely let them know I would be right with them. As I get to the door there is one Fed Ex guy and 2 ladies carrying oversized purses... yes, Jehovah's Witnesses. Anyway I deal with the Fed ex guy first. I have to pay customs duty for the package (it has now cost me the other arm and leg) so I ask him to excuse me while I go and get my purse. I need to pay with a card as I never have cash... the Fed ex guy needs to borrow my phone to call in the payment... is he serious? Has he ever tried to find a cordless phone in the middle of a chaotic household...especially one that is not ringing?! Back to the kitchen, child with pastry brush is still sweeping away, locate phone, payment is authorized, sign the slip, accept the package. The 2 nice ladies are still on the step and want to give me a booklet titled "The Happy Family" or "Raising a Happy Family" or something like that... They must have seen I looked a bit frazzled! I tell them thank you but that I probably won't read it so I won't take it. They then ask me if I homeschool... I felt like saying "No I run a circus, can't you tell." But I didn't, we had a quick chat about homeschooling and they were on their way. I close the door try to restore some order to the chaos, get Marcus to nap, clean up the flour, and then I crack open the box and take a peek. My Life Planner... it looks perfect...</div>
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And opening it in the midst of chaos was a perfect reminder to me that although I may find a perfect planner, life will still be chaotic and unexpected at times but if we keep our eyes on the Master Planner HE will give us peace! HE is the Perfect Planner so I pray that as I use my new planner I will remember to rely on God and trust in the perfect plans he has for me. </div>
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<b><i>Psalm 119:133 The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to
prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. </i></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/332/A3140C093BACD00CD041882F72B01A60.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8429865872142480664.post-14770346021746758982012-02-10T11:24:00.000-04:002012-02-10T16:45:04.986-04:00Math Rider: A Review<br />
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<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/?action=view&current=mathrider-logo-text.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="115" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/mathrider-logo-text.png" width="200" /></a>
For the past month we have had the opportunity to review a <a href="http://mathrider.com/">math facts game</a> called Math Rider. Understanding addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, and knowing all fundamental math facts is necessary for higher level math. It is important for the kids to be able to memorize these. Before starting this school year Micaiah was having some difficulty with this but over this year, with constant practice I can see improvement. Math Rider has thus been great reinforcement and an opportunity for both Micaiah and Eli to practice and gain confidence in this area... while having fun!<br />
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So what is <a href="http://mathrider.com/" target="_blank">Math Rider</a>? Here is an explanation from their website:<br />
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<div style="background-color: #6aa84f;">
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/?action=view&current=multiplication-practice-enchanted-1-300x212.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/multiplication-practice-enchanted-1-300x212.jpg" /></a>Your child is taken into a land of fantasy and quests. Living in the
Land of Ray and riding a horse called Shadow, he or she will set out on
various noble adventures. Riding across amazing, digitally matte-painted
moving backdrops of distinct fantastic lands, they will accomplish
their quest, be it finding magical flowers, returning gems to the elves
or even rescuing a princess!</div>
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Each operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) contains four quests, ranging from easy to master.</div>
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The four quests are the same across the four operations, however, the
rewards are not. Every combination of quest and reward holds a
different reward. The rewards are all animated according to how well the
player answered the questions.</div>
<div style="background-color: #6aa84f;">
All rewards are displayed on the main screen of the game. In this way
there is a direct feedback and incentive for your child to do as best
as they can.</div>
</blockquote>
What I like:<br />
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<ul>
<a href="http://s1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/?action=view&current=300x212xstats-divisionjpgpagespeedic2eieS1QqM8.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="282" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/Math%20Rider/300x212xstats-divisionjpgpagespeedic2eieS1QqM8.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<li>It is exciting. Micaiah was hooked on the game immediately, often asking to play Math Rider and never complaining when I asked him to. Eli was a little less enthusiastic but also never complained when he was asked to play it.</li>
<li> The game is designed intelligently. The game learns what the rider knows and what he or she still needs to practice. The pace of the game adjusts to each player. This was important for Eli who gets easily frustrated if something is too fast. </li>
<li>It is uncomplicated. In order to play the child simply types in the answer and presses enter, thus they can focus on the math rather than how to actually play the game. The each level of the game, apart from the final mastery level, focuses on a single operation so the child is not getting confused between operations.</li>
<li>It can be used for more than one child. Every person creates their own rider, and the game tracks each rider’s progress and unique practice results individually. The license you purchase is for up to 8 players.</li>
<li>Feedback. As the parent you can see very easily your child's progress. The feedback includes a overview map of mastery for each
number table so the parent and child can easily see what they have mastered.</li>
</ul>
This is a great program for homeschoolers and non homeschoolers alike. It is a great way for your kids to memorize the important facts and gain confidence in math! And you won't feel like you are pulling teeth!! (Do you remember learning multiplication tables with flash cards... BORING!)<br />
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There is a free trial available which will allow you to try out the full program. The program is compatible with both Windows and Mac Platforms and is <a href="http://mathrider.com/order-info.php" target="_blank">currently on sale for $37</a> until February 15th. The regular price is $47 which I think is a great value considering that it is a one time purchase that can be used for up to 8 players and can be installed on up to 3 computers. One thing to note is that it is not played in an online environment, so if you start a quest on one computer you can only access your progress on that computer.<br />
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Finally, what did my riders have to say about Math Rider?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJgbyz6VZBx6tHGUtOpVwaoGDtjl_Zwb1z2_lQQrraEQaNJ6YY1lT_XhMDjoDTf2LEzThlHbSereuj1W0zFggOR0uMCZKSmulnXFkxt7mKcEBp6OThdAP7iw14I3habzGcsZhmZBpHA/s1600/P2100139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJgbyz6VZBx6tHGUtOpVwaoGDtjl_Zwb1z2_lQQrraEQaNJ6YY1lT_XhMDjoDTf2LEzThlHbSereuj1W0zFggOR0uMCZKSmulnXFkxt7mKcEBp6OThdAP7iw14I3habzGcsZhmZBpHA/s320/P2100139.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Micaiah after completing his first division facts quest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Knight Micaiah: "I like it because I get to learn math and it helps me with my other math programs. It is very fun because I like horses and I love math!"<br />
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Builder Eli: "It's good and helps me learn and it is fun!"<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: As a member of <a href="http://homeschoolcrew.com/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a>
review team, I was given short term access to the program in return for
my honest (positive or otherwise) opinion of this product.</i><br />
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<br />Rusheikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09158870191548092839noreply@blogger.com0