Meal Planning with the Kids

If you've been following me for awhile, you already know that I'm big on giving children responsibilities.  This summer, while attending a festival in NC, I attended a workshop facilitated by Sister Aljoise Aldrich Knight on the topic Women's Work in the Creation of a More Perfect Union.  (I loved the title.) Basically she lead a discussion about what we're doing as women and mothers to create the kind of people we want to see in the world.  She shared several examples of things she did with her own children to help them become successful adults.  During our conversation, a good number of the women who attended were able to share things they were doing as well.

I have to say that most of what people shared wasn't new to me.  Truth is, most of us pretty much know what "things" we should do.  But sometimes we just need to hear it again, through another person's perspective--in their words, for it to really set in.

This conversation was that for me.  I've been putting things in place for my children to be responsible and to contribute to our home, to contribute and participate in the good of our community.  But there is definitely a bit of control I've still had.  I mean, at the end of things, I want things done a certain way, during a certain time, with a certain amount of speed....(you get the picture!).

Well, since that time this summer, I've been actively working to equip my children with the skills needed to be pretty good at what I'll be asking them to do this school year.  I'm also letting go of a lot of the control I've had.  Little steps, little steps (smile)!  But I've got to start somewhere, right?  I don't want to end up with nearly grown people who don't know how to take care of themselves all because I had to have it done a certain way.

As I've previously shared, we've taken most of the summer months to learn how to do a good job completing the chores around the house.  Each of my children started with a specific list of things they learned how to do thoroughly.  After they could do it without any help, they then become responsible for teaching their siblings how to complete the job.  Yes, there were several days that I felt like I was going to LOSE MY MIND!!!! But, I kept remembering Sister Knight's words about mothers needing to let their children figure things out and do for themselves.  How giving them that space grows them and relieves the pressure and stress so many mothers carry around.  I'm proud to say that all this teaching and learning time has not only benefited them but me as well.

That being said, I decided this morning that instead of doing all this meal planning and cooking myself, I should now involve my children.  I told each of the children that after breakfast I wanted to meet with them so we could plan our meals for next week.  Each of them perked up with excitement.  (They are really liking this 'conferencing' that we've been doing and so I'm going to use it.  By making appointments with each of them, they seem more willing to wait their turn.)

We started by listing all the different meal options that we have (on hand, since we just went grocery shopping) and then another list of meals we liked (and would plan for).  I then took each of them through what kinds of foods we needed to have from each food group (pulled on our food pyramid lessons!!).  I let Pretty Girl start by planning our breakfasts.  She will also be responsible for preparing them.  After she finished, Sweetie Pie then decided on what we'll have for lunch each day--she too will be responsible for preparing them (with help).  The Boy and I will finish up with dinner plans.

Two things about this that stood out to me:
1. Each of my children came up with good ideas and took ownership of thinking through how each meal should compliment the next (we don't need to have the same foods all day long).
2. My level of 'stress' associated with coming up with meals is gone!!!

By simply equipping my children to do it, it got done.  Meals are planned! Whoopie!!!

At the end of next week, we'll take time to plan for the following one.  I will pick a day, for each of them, to try a new recipe so that we don't get bored with the meals and add some variety to our dishes.  I'm feeling good about that--and, more importantly, so are they.

I am hopeful that I am growing and making room for each of them to develop and practice new skills so that they can become the kinds of people I want to see in the world (kind, compassionate, responsible, trustworthy, respectful, passionate, generous, honest, considerate, spiritual, thoughtful, hard working, creative, etc., etc., etc.)

Are there ways in which you need to stretch yourself outside your parenting comfort zone?  What specific thing or things are you doing to raise your children to be the kinds of people you'd like our world to be filled with?  Please share a comment below!  If you've already blogged about this topic, please a link.  I'd love to hear what other like-minded mothers are and have been doing.  Thank you.

Happy Home Learning!

Another Word About Planning

As I've been going through things this week and making sure things are in place for next week, I wanted to add something else that has come up for me:

Make sure you have all needed paper, activities, supplies, etc. on hand.  As I was making assessments of where things were, I realized that I hadn't put together two of the games I have on my list for The Boy to use this coming week.  Which made me remember that there were several copies I needed to make to be ready to start the notebook/lapbook pages we'll start as well.  I then took another moment to look through each of the lessons I'm planning to make sure each item called for, I actually had.  I pulled several things off my bookshelf and have made little stacks of resources for each lesson so that I'm ready!  I've asked each of the children to made sure that their notebooks and binders are where they need to be so we can find them.

So, as all good teachers do, take inventory of your supplies as well as what you'll need for each activity and lesson.  Make sure it's in arm's reach so that you don't lose precious time searching for something you thought was "just right here."

This happens to me a lot more than I'd like.  So I'm making plans to change this.  This is something that I will do weekly, probably on Sunday evening for the start of each new week.

Hope this little reminder tip helps you as well!

In you're planning, what things have you found out about yourself?  What things are you changing for this year?  I'd love to hear from you!

Happy Home Learning!

Schedules: Yearly, Monthly, Weekly, Daily

Since I've started sharing about the importance of planning, I've spoken with a good number of 'new to homeschool' moms and a couple of experienced ones about planning and just what planning consists of.  For my local homeschool group, I'm putting together a workshop with another experienced mother, to give some specifics and benefits from taking the time to plan and then continuing to make the time to do so.

In talking with my husband, who's also an educator, we've decided that the rhythm of 6 weeks on--1 week off flows well for our family.  Just when we'll need a break, we'll have it.  I have my calendar out and will be making two of those days during that 'off' week planning days.  Time for reviewing what was planned, how well it's working and what things I'll modify.  Of course, these are things that take place regularly with teaching, however, when starting new things you have to give yourself and your children time to get used to things and time to see progress.

After planning the general schedule for the year (what months you'll teach what, what holidays and breaks you'll take) the next thing you can do is look at the themes you'll be teaching and how they fall within your year plans.  This can help you with field trip ideas and perhaps you'll tweek your schedule so that important dates (in history, in your family, etc.) can be used to assist with gaining interest in a particular lesson, activity, etc.   As you can see, each family's schedule can look very different, indeed.

Next I would suggest putting together your daily schedule.  I've seen many variations on this, and again, I believe each family new to this should try a couple of different ones to find the one that works for them.  I've seen a lot of mothers try to simply copy another's schedule and then wind up overly stressed out, not always realizing that the schedule just doesn't match her family's rhythms.  Definitely try a couple if you're not sure and make adjustments that meet your children's pace and needs.

Case and point: I have a really good friend who is always telling me how she's done with school by noon, 1pm at the latest.  I've found it rather challenging to do myself.  We end up upset with one another and feel overly rushed.  I had to realize that although we may be up early, well, the children at least, I like to ease into the day.  I had to accept that my natural rhythms don't match up well with early, "rise & shine" schedules. (smile)  And that's ok. My family's schedule of getting started later and going longer isn't a bad thing.  It's just what works for us.

Another thing I've learned is that many of us make a schedule for 'school' or 'learning time' but don't factor in all the other things we need/want to get done in any given day.  Making a daily schedule that includes your person time, meditation, cleaning/chores, exercise, errands, dr appointments, etc. would probably be more realistic and also give you a better idea of just how your day will go--or the goal for that day. (smile)

A few years ago, before I was doing anything formal in learning, I had a weekly schedule and did a pretty good job sticking to it.  Everything got done over a week's time instead of just a day or few days.  Here's what I used to do:

Sundays--Straighten up from weekend.
Mondays--change & wash bedding and bath linens
Tuesdays--Library Day, Errands & grocery shopping
Wednesdays--laundry (everything else)
Thursday--Park Day & an hour of what I wanted to do (I had sitters who'd watch the kids)
Fridays-Thorough Cleaning of Entire House
Saturdays--Rest & Family Fun

I have tried to stay pretty close to this same schedule, adjusting a few things like which day we go to the library. Since the children are older, I've divided up the chores and we work on them throughout the entire week instead of just one day now.

Here is what I'm planning as a daily schedule.  Let me also say that I'm not big on following a schedule to a tee.  I love flexibility and will allow for that, but will be using this as a general guide, hopefully on most days. (smile)

I'll start with the 'Non-negotibles' (I remember reading that on another homeschool blog, can't remember where, now. Sorry.)  The things that must be done each day before 1pm.  These are also the things that we'll do regardless of the day if we have something outside the home to do.  Adjustments will be made to the time, in those cases.

Meditation/Devotion/Memory Work
Breakfast
Daily Exercise
Morning Chores
Spelling Power
First Language Lessons
Phonics
Reading
Math

After lunch, we'll have a quiet time--yes, I so believe in this and probably will for some time!!  The children will be able to either listen to stories on tape/CD or read quietly to themselves on their beds.  I will take this time to blog, catch up on email, and/or rest myself.

After quiet time we'll do either Science or History depending upon the day as well as the intensity of the learning of a particular unit.

Then we'll do:

Art
Piano Lessons/Practice
Spanish
Dance Lessons

Again, depending upon the day.

Ending the day with:

Dinner
Evening Chores
Bathtime
Storytime
Bedtime

Things will be adjusted on the days we have activities with our homeschool group.  Those are monthly activities: 1st Thursday: Park Day; 3rd Monday: Group meetings; various field trips mainly scheduled for Tuesday or Wednesday; Science Workshops: Fridays in October & November.  I've been trying to keep our weekly library day, but this year I am thinking that we'll do it bi-weekly maybe the 2nd and 4th weeks of each month.  I've just learned about a weekly P.E. class open to homeschoolers that is offering free classes for an hour each Tuesday.  I will be looking to see just how that will work for us. (Already it is making me tired of thinking about all the running around and being out of the house--so perhaps I'll rethink that. lol)

My goal this year is to find our rhythm and stick with it.  Last year we spent many days out and about. Quite honestly, that just wasn't a good rhythm for us.  As much as we enjoyed what we were involved in, running all the time just wasn't good for us.  This year I'd like to be more grounded--flexible, but grounded.

So how are you putting together your schedules this year?  Have you thought about all the things you'd like to do and how you'll get them done?  Yes, it can seem overwhelming, but if you follow my suggested steps I'm sure you'll find success and put together a realistic schedule for the rhythms of your family.  Let me know how it's going!!

Happy Home Learning!

Conferencing

Yesterday I took some time with each of my children to discuss the plans I've been making for each of them for this year.  I showed them their books and allowed them time to look through them and ask questions.  I discussed the overall goals I have for them and asked for their input.

This is the first time I've done it this way--like a conference one might have in school (parent & teacher).  They were very excited about 'their time.'  Also during this conferencing time, we checked the supplies they had and what they needed.  Then they got to get their new supplies for the year, well, at least the beginning. :)

Since we've spent most of the summer learning and practicing our chores around the house, this week we're working on getting back into our school year daily routine.  We're officially beginning on September 4th.  Of course now that the children know what I've been planning (specifically), they're terribly excited and have already asked repeatedly if we can just start now. lol  Little do they know we've already started, but I don't want them to lose their excitement. :)

What routines are you starting this year with your family?
How are you making learning exciting?

I'd love to hear from you!

Happy Home Learning!

The [lost] Art of Letter Writing

When was the last time you received a hand written letter from a dear friend in the mail?

I used to live for those hand written letters!

As a child, I would sit and watch my mother hand write many letters and cards throughout the week. She had nice stationary and matching stickers and would spread out on our kitchen table to catch up with her loved ones and shared with them the happenings of her life.

She past that habit on to me. I started our with thank you notes and then I'd narrate letters to grandparents, aunts and uncles.  When I finally learned to write for myself, she invested in stationary for me.  I would pick things with flowers or butterflies or other nature-type things.  I would spend time writing to all sorts of people--family, friends and pen pals (who became friends).

Then there was the waiting.
The waiting for that returned letter.

That was tough sometimes.

But on the day I'd get a letter back--oh what joy!!

With the advancement of technology, I see how letter writing has been lost, if not totally forgotten.  If any of us gets mail, it's junk or bills.  It's a rare thing for me to get a handwritten letter.  My mother still writes, but uses a computer now--so although it's a letter, it's no longer handwritten.

Just a couple months ago I was without technology for about 10 days while my husband went out of town (with our laptop) for a conference.  I decided then to find some paper and write some letters.  I went through my address book and picked out 10 people to 'surprise' with a letter.  I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed doing it.  In each of the letters and told the recipient not to feel in pressure to write back--for I was writing because I had the time (not being on the computer).

I got several calls of thank you and a few emails, from those who wanted to do more, but couldn't. But, to my surprise, one day as I was looking through the mail, I found a letter address to me from one of my dear friends.  She had, too, found some time to put a few kind words and thoughts down on special paper.  It was a pleasant surprise and really meant a lot.

Something so simple. Yet for those of us who have found meaning in it over the year, it can mean a whole lot.

So, I've decided to bring handwritten letters back into style. lol  Well, at least for my little family. We've spent the morning identifying people we'd like to write to and then selected paper to pen our thoughts on.  As a treat, I let the children pick out the stamps we'll use to mail them.  I've set the expectation that we probably won't hear back via the mail from those we write to.  That we'll probably get a phone call, email or Skype invitation on many of them.

But, if someone does decide to pen us back--joy, oh joy!!

(This is also a great way to practice handwriting and other language arts skills.)

How has letter writing been a part of your life?  Or if you've not been into letter writing, what way of communication has meant something to you?

Happy Home Learning!

Planning, Planning and More Planning!!

I've spent the last two weeks fully engaged in planning for this year.  I mean, I've done a few things around the house and with the kids, but I've been putting most of my energy into getting things ready for our next months start of new learning.  You can image what the dining room table has looked like, I'm sure! :)

Yes, I'm definitely one who believes learning happens every day, everywhere, however I do start a 'school year' in the traditional way--helps keep my plans in a bit of order.  Plus, the kids like 'starting' when their non-homeschooled friends do.  I'm ok with this. :)

I've found such great resources online this week.  Pinterest has facilitated in this as I've done several searches of homeschool boards.  If you're on Pinterest, here's a quick link to three of my boards specific to homeschooling: General, Ancient history, American history.  You may find these resources helpful is you're following a classical method, although they can be used for anyone!  I may tweek these boards a bit as the 'general' one has all kinds of resources--we'll see.

I'm finding that a good amount of homeschoolers that I speak with don't take time to thoroughly plan.  Many are good about doing research on what they're going to use with their children, but they end up stopping there.  Then just starting and finding that things aren't laid out as they thought or that in pulling everything necessary for the lesson together they lose their children's attention.  One of the main things I'm sharing now with them is that just as teachers are given in-service days (for planning) and are required to attend workshops on how to use particular curricula, homeschooling parents must make/take the time to do the same.  Planning it more than just making a schedule or list of what you're going to cover, it's about going through lessons, outlining skills, pulling supplies and resources together and getting a good handle on how you will proceed (and ideas on what to do when you may need to reteach something because you child hasn't gotten it the first several times).  Since a lot of curricula designed for homeschoolers is pretty well laid out, not everyone takes this time to read through things prior to getting started.  But this is crucial!

Another important part of planning is scheduling time to plan on a regular basis throughout the year!  Finding natural breaks and making time at the beginning helps not only with burnout but with making smoother transitions.  Giving yourself enough time to evaluate what is working and what is not as well as being able to differentiate between the natural time-period needed to getting into the flow of something new verses things not being a good match for your children/yourself is critical.  Ample planning time is necessary for this.  Uninterrupted time, where you can think is what you need to make room for on a regular basis.

Hopefully you all have been doing this.  This year I've made it a BIG deal here.  The children have been cooperative, for the most part, engaging each other in other activities, since they know that what I'm doing is for THEM!!  I'll take some time over the next few days to share the specifics of my plans for this year on the page designated for that (Curriculum for 2012-2013).

How have you been planning?  What things are you finding and using this year?  I'm always interested in hearing what others are doing and what's working for them.  If you'd rather not rewrite a post you've already written, add a link below.  Thanks! ;)


Happy Homeschooling!!


If you're local and want to join a wonderfully supportive and encouraging community of homeschooling families in support meetings, park days, learning activities and field trips, check out this link.  Not local but want helpf/useful information and resources? Like our group's page on Facebook.

Summer Learning

There is so much going on in our daily lives that I haven't found much time to write it all down.  No, we haven't been doing that much, but we're definitely giving our time to things that have required a good amount of it.

Last month we enjoyed another family camping trip in NC.  We camped during a festival and so were able to meet new friends as well as spend time in nature together.

We've been involved locally--in our community and neighborhood--in joining the community garden (just down our street) and helping to grow and support our neighborhood farmers' market (just opening this season!!).  Fresh, local food right in walking distance of our home! YAY!

Of course we've spent many hours in the library reading and sharing books.  Although we aren't leading/participating in the 100 Books a Month Challenge*, that I started a few years ago now, we're still reading lots of books.  We now have an additional two readers in the family so Mommy & Daddy don't have to do all the reading anymore!  The books we're unable to get to, we're listening to on tape/CD, as we regularly do.

I've been doing a lot of planning for this coming school year.  Although we never stop learning, I've found it easier (for planning and for me, specifically) to 'start' with the traditional school year.  There are definitely pros and cons to this, but I guess habit wins in this area, and, I'm ok with that! (smile)  I'll share more about this in another post.

The girls and I have been doing some basic reading and math lessons, just to stay up on what we've been doing.  Pretty girl is learning some new things in math.  She also came to me earlier this summer and requested to be moved into another level in reading come Fall.  I have to admit that I'm one for finishing things but upon her question of 'why' I began to rethink my position on this.  So, we made a plan, back in May, on what she'd do during the summer in that area and upon completion of our plan, she will start on another level in reading. (Win-win)  Sweetie-pie has been very eager to read and is coming along nicely.  She definitely learns differently than Pretty girl.  I'm happy to say that a lot of the resources I've kept over the year since teaching are now coming in handy!!

The boy child is growing and continues to amaze me with just what he's able to do--all on his own!!  He's taken to making paper airplanes.  I found a great book at the thrift store last month--a huge book of tons of different ways to fold/make paper airplanes.  In looking through it myself, I realized that it was a bit challenging, even for me, to figure out and follow the directions (pictures are even included).  When we were unsuccessful in making a couple, I suggested that we wait until Daddy came home and ask him to help.  Daddy did help and later shared with me that this book might be a bit too much for the boy at this level, him being only 5 years old.  I agreed and put the book up on the shelf.  We then showed him a couple ways to make some easier plans and left it at that.  Well, the other day I saw him pondering over that book again.  Then he started folding and turning the paper.  I went back to what I was doing.  All of a sudden there was a plane that whipped past me.  I picked it up and in handing it back realized that this wasn't one of the patterns I'd showed him.  After asking him several times if in fact he had made it--him saying, "Yes, Mommy, I made it!"--I had him make another one just to prove it.  And. he. did.  Yes. I think he's amazing!! (big smile)

We are in the process of growing through our clothes and making plans for bigger/larger sized for fall.  Each of the children has gotten taller, but especially the boy.  I've decided that between the thrift stores and sewing, we'll update everyone's wardrobe.  I've watched the sales on patterns and was able to scoop up several good ones through a recent sale at Joann's.  I'm heading up to my mother's house to spend a week sewing with her (many hands make light work!) and will get the pieces that we don't make from her local thrift stores (she has a lot of nice ones in her area).

Then there's meal planning.  Yes, I've wanted to do it on a greater scale for a while.  I've been reading a couple blogs and finding recipes on Pinterest (such an addictive site) to add to my repertoire.  I have a few friends who are also interested in doing such.  We've tossed around the idea of cooking together in mass (There used to be local shops that did this. Many of them are now closed.) but no one seems serious.  No matter, I definitely want to put things place to make meals easier and less time consuming.  I also want to engage the children regularly.

This summer we have spent a lot of time learning how to clean and do jobs around the house.  Granted, this is nothing new to us/the children, but as they continue to grow, their list of responsibilities around the house does too.  I wanted them to know how to thoroughly do each of the jobs and thus we've spent a good amount of time learning and practicing!!  It has definitely been worth the effort and given me some time to think, read and relax!  We have decided to begin an allowance system in September and although these chores will not be paid for, directly, they will be part of the responsibilities required to get an allowance.  There will be extra jobs that will come with direct pay, and we've spent time learning a few of those as well.

And of course, we've been engaged in regular good ole outdoor play!  It's the time of year when it's hot and sunny then rains every afternoon for about an hour.  The kids have enjoyed being in both types of weather.  When there isn't thunder & lightening, we've enjoyed the refreshing rain. We've spent a good amount of time on our porch.

So, I think I've recapped what's been happening for us.  I'm sure I'm forgetting something interesting for everyday comes with it's own adventure.

How have you been?  What things are you getting into this summer with your family?  What plans are you making for the Fall?


*If you're interested in joining in on the reading fun, here's a link to Our Pace where you'll find others still keeping track of all their books. :)  Enjoy!

Time4Learning

I've been invited to try Time4Learning for one month in exchange for a candid review. My opinion will be entirely my own, so be sure to come back and read about my experience. Time4Learning can be used as a homeschool curriculum, for afterschool enrichment and for summer skill sharpening. Find out how to write your own curriculum review for Time4Learning.

I have heard about this site, but never visited it so this will be an experience. :)

We are all well here.  Busier than I imagined.  I'm looking forward to taking some time to share all the highs and lows.  Hope each of you are well, too.

 

100 Books-a-Month Challenge :: Ending

After much thought and reading (smile), I've decided that we've come to the end of this challenge. It's been almost two years since I decided to do it with my three and invite others to do it too.  Some months were great--we read beyond the 100 book mark.  Others were a little below the mark.  It was fun and I'm glad to have been able to do it.

I decided to write a blog about it, since there were several of you who joined in and actively read with us.  I wanted to say 'thanks' for journeying along side us.  It was nice to read through your lists, get recommendations and see that we enjoyed some of the same titles & authors.  Here's to those of you who joined us for the entire time or for selected months:

• Alex
• Amy
• Annell
• Butterfly Mama
• Carol B.
• Jeanette
• Kaat
• Kelly
• Magical Childhood
• Milk and Honey Mommy
• Our Pace
• Rana
• Sherry
• The Platts
• Tracy and her crew
• Tricia
• Zoo Mommy

This in no way means we're not going to be reading here--we love stories waaaay too much for that!  We just won't be cataloging it in the same way.  As we wind down, enjoy the last bit of our summer break, I'm sure we'll find something else to challenge ourselves to.

Happy Reading to each of you!

Summer!

Hello there!
Yes, I know....
but what can I say?
I've been thinking about my blog(s) and the fact that I haven't been here in ages (it seems).
But that's just how things are flowing for me right now.
We've been vegging....really....like only doing what we want to do....and not always that! lol!
The summer is just getting started, really, but it's been HOT for awhile now, so I guess that's why it feels like such a long time.
I've been reading up a storm!
Been outside doing things with other homeschooling families.
We've been on a little vacation.
Did some camping!!
Attended a festival.
Now, I'm getting things in place for the Fall.
Yeah, I know. But after doing 'nothing' this week, I'm getting my mind right to get back into the swing of things.
How have you been?  By the looks of my blog roll, many of you are probably doing the same (which you should be!).  I hope that you are well.  That your little corner of the world is full of joy and hope.  I will be back....soon.  I think! lol
Until then,
Peace & blessings!

Preserving

So after picking all those strawberries we set out to make this year's patch of strawberry preserves!  (That was the purpose of picking them!)  I refreshed my memory on the process.

We stopped by the store to pick up a few jars.  Treated myself to a new with an adjustable mouth for different size jars (this was a GREAT thing to have on hand!!!)

 We started by washing the jars & lids in hot, soapy water.

 Sterilized them by placing them on a cookie sheet and heating them in the oven until hot & dry.

 Put the lids in hot water to keep hot until I needed them.

Each of the children got a chance to mash the cut strawberries (after they were washed, capped and cut into fourths). Sweetie pie got the large glass measuring cup.

 Pretty Girl got to cut with me.

 The Boy having his turn at mashing with the potato masher.

Then we placed them into a large pot, added the pectin and sugar.  Stirred them continuously until they boiled.

Using the funnel (this thing is the BEST!) made pouring the hot mixture into the jars a breeze!  As you can see there is a good bit of foam still in the first four jars.  It didn't spoon off as nicely as it did the last time I did this.

I can't remember where I learned this trick.  I was to say I read about this on Gypsy Forest, but I've gone back to look for it and haven't been able to find it.  Anyway, instead of doing a hot bottle bath, as all the books say to do, I simply turned the hot jars over (after securely closing the lids) and allow them to sit this way for about 15 minutes.  The heat from the jar itself, along with the heat of the jam inside will make the seal that's needed to preserve the jam and eliminate any spoilage.  I think I actually left them this way for an hour (ran out to the post office).  When we returned, I checked the seal--and all of them are locked tight!  I'll leave them out the full 24 hours that are recommended in all the books before storing them in a dark, cool place. 

We have 11 jars of jam to enjoy for the rest of the year! Now, to make some bread....

Strawberry Picking :: GA Style

We have had this field trip on the calendar for several weeks now and were thrilled at going to pick strawberries again this year with our homeschooling friends.  I was a bit annoyed though, that we were running late.  Turns out it was a good thing! One of the other mothers called me to say that she had arrive early and that the farms were closed.  It was rather random, as I had just spoken to someone at the end of last week.  Anyway, since I was still at home, I was able to find another strawberry farm within 7miles, contact the others attending and we were still able to pick!!

Now, our experience wasn't what we'd had in mind.  The people in charge there were politely rude.  You know what that is, the stiff smile, polite gestures but the overall rudeness.  Perhaps it was more sweet rudeness.  Either way, we made the most of our time.  Hopefully next time we'll get to the original spot, as they allow for 'fun' and 'tasting' of their fruit.

Yes, we were NOT allowed to sample any of the fruit we picked until we paid for it.  Now, I get the whole "this is not a meal" thing--but part of the fun of picking your own is the sampling and snacking!!  The kids did well--no one complained OR ate one strawberry!  The overseer, I mean, the man made sure of that!  We lived, we learned, we will do better next time.

But you can't tell that was going on from the photos! :D

What's Working For Us [At This Moment]

As I read different blogs, I really enjoy reading what's working (and what's not) for the different home schooling families on my blog roll.  Granted, I read a variety of blogs, whose authors uses a variety of methods.  I like all the variety.  I like learning from others, getting a fresh and sometimes different perspective on how to approach a particular subject matter, using an array of materials/curricula/etc.  I  like how it can often stretch my imagination of what could work for us.

I have learned and already implemented these new (and not so new) ideas & approaches to learning.  A few years back, before we 'officially' started home learning, I read a lot from parents who were using an unschooling approach.  These blogs assisted me in relaxing, being flexible, and just allowing our day to unfold--which is definitely a good way to be in general with home learning, no matter what method you use.  Being able to change, readjust, reformulate, let go of what doesn't work and move on to what does/will, is one of the benefits of homeschooling.

Anyway.  There are things we do daily, that are just part of our routine regardless of how the day unfolds.  There are other things that 'show up' only when they're planned. We are all learning to be a bit more structured in certain areas of our lives and to be more relaxed in others.  It's all a balance, right?

I am still using Saxon Phonics with Pretty Girl, and now Sweetie-pie, daily.  There are an assortment of phonics programs, books, kits, supplements to choose from.  I like the approach, how it includes spelling and reading and since it's working for both the girls, we are going to stick with it.  From a teacher perspective, phonics is phonics no matter how it's taught (alphabetically or another ordering).  I've been blessed with all the material for all the levels they have (K-2).  I did have to purchase the teacher's editions, but found them on ebay for pennies!  So, this is a keeper!

English/Grammar is one of my strengths (my husbands as well) and I rarely used a textbook while in the classroom.  We use a call and response method for learning rules and I've been pulling activities from several places--my head (smile), the Shurley Method (jingles & diagramming sentences--I used this method while a teacher), several teacher resource books (specifically for grammar practice) and an old language book that I actually used when I was in school many moons ago.  The good things about grammar is that it really hasn't changed.  The things that have changed are on the HS or College Level, so although we may not be doing the exact same things as everyone else, we're learning parts of speech/sentence, how to diagram sentences (which reinforces the knowledge of parts of speech/sentence), proper use of punctuation and subject verb agreement.  For now, I feel confident in what we're doing and the children enjoy the call and response way in which I lead them in learning.

I just finished reading the book Writing with Ease by Susan Bauer and decided that I liked how her suggestions gentle taught writing.  I took a weekend to hand-copy the pertinent information from the book so that I can use it with Pretty Girl in the fall.  I've been doing little bits of this approach already--sentence dictation, reading and asking comprehension questions, copying sentences from text we've already read (doubling as handwriting, some call it note-booking).  The plan Susan sets out in her book is a weekly plan making sure each piece is done strategically, building on the previous learning.  I think this will work for us since it takes the pressure of writing independently before the student is ready--which can be a source for early frustration with writing.  I want to avoid as much of that as I can! lol

Reading.  That's a big one, as it pulls together all the smaller parts.  Right now we're not using a specific series or curriculum.  I've been looking at several options and trying to decide which one will benefit us.  Presently, we've been using easy readers--the ones you can find anywhere, specifically the library! :D  I have a nice easy reader library here at home as well.  I'd like something a little more systematic, that may be because that's just what I'm used to.  Pretty Girl does do well with a predictable way of material being presented.  I've been using volume one of the McGruffy Readers, but don't really care of the images.  I have found a couple series of readers without images and will take a closer look at them at our upcoming homeschool conference this summer.  Reading is reading and so on some level, I question whether we really need anything specific.  One the other hand, there is something to be said about a systematic approach to reading, especially those children who learn best this way, as Pretty Girl does.  We'll see what I figure out from viewing them first hand.

Mathematics is still a very hands-on subject for us.  We have a nice collection of manipulatives, which I'm looking to expand a bit more for The Boy this fall.  Pretty Girl really likes having a workbook--so a workbook is what she has!  She does work in it daily.  I also give her a daily word problem from the book Read! Draw! Solve!  The approach is to draw out the problem to make it something you can visualize and then solve it.  Pretty Girl has liked this because she enjoys drawing!!  I've changed it up slightly now that she knows what key words mean addition or subtraction.  When I saw that she was spending more time on the drawing (wanting to color it, giving great details and features to people and animals) part of the problem, I now only have her do the drawing part of a problem once a week.  She breezes through them now and will ask to leave out the drawing step since she "has it" (her words) now.  I'm thankful it worked so well.  I remember loathing word problems in school.

We also use several board games with reinforce math skills.  One of our favorites is Chutes and Ladders.  It's good for reinforcing counting skills (like more board games generally can).  But I really like the numbers on the board.  We can do addition with each forward move; subtraction with each backward move.  The children also like the different versions of Bingo we can play with numbers, number sentences and other math concepts.

Science and Social Studies are learn directly through literature right now.  We learn and study based on our interests.  We spent a good part of this year reading about animals--mammals specifically--for science.  We've done experiments with water, magnets, plants, etc. using resource books from the library.  Social Studies was more of a discussion lead time, although I did read a lot about people and topics on community, cooperation, work.  Our homeschool group's geography club, Globetrotters, gave us direction in our study of the world--continents.  We did in depth study of a few countries in which we presented during our meeting each month.

I incorporate art and music this way as well--based on our interest or desire to hear something new.  Music is usually playing in the back ground of our days.  We've then read books about several jazz musicians.  I've found some great 'how to draw' books there as well.  We've just checked out one that shows how to use letters and numbers to draw just about anything (that children are interested in).  I've also picked of a few good ones at thrift stores.  The Boy enjoys art and drawing pirates, dinosaurs, sharks and reptiles.  He uses these books to help him illustrate the stories he composes (I write them out for him--we have quite a nice system! lol).

Of course our daily routine plays into the overall learning that takes place in our home.  The field trips and outings we have done this year also add to our experience as well.

I've decided that we will continue our 'school time' throughout the summer.  We spent 2 to 4 hours daily on our structured learning time, more flexible on some days than others.  Since I'll have to report both girls in the Fall, I will use that time to 'start' the new things I'd like to implement.  The things I've shared above are things I'm planning to keep in our daily learning time.  There are a few other things I'm planning to add.  Until then, I'll continuing reading, investigating, talking to those who've used the materials.  Once I get to view the materials this summer I'm looking forward to moving on the choices I'll be making for our learning experience at home.

Finding Our Way

I've been away from my computer/the internet for a good while now, on a regular basis.  I've gotten really involved in life here.  I've missed reading the many blogs that I follow, of feeling connected to many of you who've become my support system online.

There are days I feel very overwhelmed with all the things I feel like we need to be doing and are doing.  I've revamped our 'out of the house' schedule and am now tailoring our 'in the house' schedule to better meet our ever-changing needs.  I'm reevaluating my decisions regarding homeschooling (how we do it, what we do, what we use), allowing for what each of us needs at this time.  I'm contemplating how we could better do things, making the day go a bit smoother, less stress for me (yeah, it's true!), finding activities that will work for each of my children on the multiple levels they function on. 

For the past month, we've been doing a lot better about involving everyone in chores.  I am thankful that these 'little' jobs make such a big difference on the amount of time/energy I spend in doing them alone.  Last year I spent a lot of time looking and finding ways to limit our consumption and creating of waste.  This still remains a priority for our family.  However, some of the things I was able to do previously, without a whole lot of drama/stress/etc. on my part, have now become that.  I shared with a dear friend the other day that MY SANITY costs and there are definitely times when that--the care of me--is going to come first.  So one of the first things I've put into place is everyone's involvement in keeping our kitchen in order.  We are blessed to have an energy-efficient dishwasher with several cycles/options for washing.  With everyone rinsing and loading after each meal and selecting a short cycle wash, we're using less water and no one person is stuck with washing all the dishes (nor am I in the kitchen all day!!).

Another thing that is helping with keeping me OUT of the kitchen is that I let the girls make lunches.  They take turns and make several different lunches, that have been planned at the top of the week, for each other.  Although they take longer in prep time than I, they are building up their skills and really pitching in.  They are also learning to appreciate what I do (smile)!

I've also started doing less laundry.  Yeah, you read that right! lol!  Everyone has their own clothes basket in which they put their dirty clothes.  I assist on 'their day' to wash their laundry, but after the clothes have been washed, they must either put in the dryer or hang up themselves.  They then collect their dry clothes, fold them and put them away.  This is another area in which I've been pleasantly surprised!!  This method is working for us and actually limits the questions of, "Mommy, where are my socks?" or "Mommy, I don't have any clean...."

We've also made a little chart to keep up with whose turn it is to feed the pets and other wildlife in our lives (birds, squirrels).  We rotate daily as they each like frequent turns at each job.  There are the dogs: food and water, the Koi in the pond and the bird and squirrel feeders--which don't need daily attention (thank goodness!).  Although I do have to oversee all of this, for all the obvious reasons, we're developing patterns/rhythms for the days that will come when I won't have to.

Now that we're settled (for the most part) in our new home, it's easy to give each of the children responsibilities for keeping different area in order as well.  Years ago I remember joining The Fly Lady's email list and reading her blog/website.  Several of her tips I've kept although I don't get those 10-minute reminders flooding my email account anymore! (smile)  Taking 10-15 minutes two times every day, once in the morning, once in the evening for us, and "restoring the environment" makes for a space where company can actually 'drop in' on us unannounced!  (However, I phone call and plan prior to your arrive is appreciated! lol)

After working hard to purge and organize our classroom, our learning time has definitely worked better for all of us.  Everyone has there own designated area/space/drawer with all the supplies they need.  It makes it easy to see who needs what at the end of the month when we restock.  The children have done extremely well (better than I'd hoped) in keeping our bookshelf in order.  I gave them lessons on how to restore things and did set limits on just how many books they could take off the shelf at a time.  I just think we were all excited about things being in a order that worked for all of us.  There are shelves they can't bother books on (top two rows) and after getting detailed explanations as to why, I've had no issues.

Perhaps we're all just growing up.

I'm also putting perimeters on our involvement in our community.  It's been exciting to be 'back home' and we've jumped right back into the flow of things--connecting with old friends, participating in our local homeschool group, joining in library events, making friends within our neighborhood.  For awhile there, we were spending most everyday OUT of the house.  Which was fun, at first, but then became a struggle.  I've helped to start a friends' group for our neighborhood library and although that hasn't put me out of the house more, it has changed my computer time--I do things for the group, which can be time-consuming, and then don't find my way here!  That seems to be the nature of the beginning of things, I guess. 

I also organize our local homeschool group.  Since being back in the area, I've sought to reconnect with those I know and make connections with those who have joined during my absence.  That has been interesting!  Many of the mothers that I started out with are no longer homeschooling.  I've talked with others who would like to see the group be more this...or more that...learning, anew, that you can't please everyone; realizing that I don't really want to.  I've also made some wonderful new connections with others who are looking for similar things as I.  This has taken a lot of energy and time as well.  I'm making plans with several mothers who are committed to developing a supportive community and putting some things in place to make that happen.  Having others to encourage me and be of encouragement to is something I need as a woman, mother and homeschooling parent.  I'm thankful to be finally in a place where they can be a positive thing!

We have joined some new friends in our neighborhood in working in/on the community garden.  This is the third one to be started in the neighborhood--there are waiting lists to join the other two. So I jumped at the opportunity to meet/work/get to know our neighbors while growing food for the late summer/fall.  We have finally found a day that works for us and have been going regularly to weed and check on our crops!  Another homeschooling family joins us there too.  The peppers, squash, tomatoes, and beans are growing nicely--plants that is, no fruit just yet.  But just wait!! :D

Our personal garden is coming along.  I have vision of grandeur that haven't quite come to fruition.  I don't have everything in the ground yet. Mainly because we have puppies (that need forever homes) and I don't have chicken wire to cover/separate everything just yet.  Our little plants are fairing well and I may even do some containers to house the others permanently.  Either way, I am making plans to do some canning later in the year.  We have a field trip to a strawberry farm next week to pick a gallon or two of berries.  Remember last year?  I sure do!  I'm on our LAST jar of strawberry preserves so am looking forward to doing this again with the children.  I also want to can some green beans and tomatoes (mainly sauces).  We'll see how our growing season goes!

I guess it's all a balancing act, really.  There are ebbs and flows to life.  This is definitely a flowing time for us.  I'm choosing to enjoy this time/space knowing that the ebb will come.  It's funny how you can get caught up in living in the other time/space, missing that time, wishing you had it back, instead of living in the present.  I have to remind the children of this as well.  I remind them of days gone by when they were 'tired of just being in the house' or 'wanting to be with friends,' etc.  It helps to remember these times as it gives perspective.

Right now, I'm looking out the window at what my children have created--a tent and pretending they're living during the frontier days.  And isn't that just how it should be?  Enjoying the sunshine, being present in the moment, creating, imagining, exploring, dreaming....

I think we're all learning as we find our way.

Is it Monday????

So I guess we've made it through the day, most of it anyway, and I'm just now realizing it's Monday!  This can be a good or bad thing...depending upon what Mondays are like at your house. (smile)

I must say that we had a very productive lesson time today.  Pretty girl made it all the way through her lessons and independent work without ONE issue.  This is a BIG DEAL for us.  Sweetie pie had some challenges but we all made it through.

We got some work in after lunch working in the community garden just around the corner from our house.  We walked.  The boy found his sticks.  And we weeded in several of the beds.  Crops are already growing well.  It was a lot hotter out once we got to the garden, so only stayed about an hour instead of our usual 2 hour work time.  I guess we'll have to either go out earlier or later in the evening.

I was in the midst of meal planning for this week when I realized it was Monday.  Not a bad Monday, if I do say so myself.  (and I do!) lol

I am definitely tired!  Spent several evenings up late reading and planning, talking and thinking.  Being in the sun also took some out of me as well.  I'm looking forward to my 'clock-out' time.  I may treat myself to an early bedtime tonight.  [I always promise myself this, but don't always follow through.]

How has Monday treated you?

Craft It Forward 2011

I've just joined Tracey in Craft It Forward.  The idea is simple.  Create something for the first five people who leave a comment and send it to them by the end of 2011.  It can be whatever you'd like it to be: something painted, something sewn, something knitted, something crocheted, a photograph, just anything you'd like.  Those five, who leave comments, in turn extend it to five of their readers...and so on...and so on....

Wanna play?? (sure you do!)

Grab the button above and copy this to your blog.

Come on, it'll be fun!!! :D

Park Day

The playground at the park

We spent most of the yesterday at the park with some friends.  It was such a beautiful day--warm enough, sunny enough, the right amount of breeze, a good amount of shade!  I purposely left my camera at home so that I could just ENJOY that day instead of snapping pictures, capturing the energy/excitement/thoughtfulness of the day.  Now, I wish I had. lol

We really like this park.  There's a great playground (see photo) but it's surrounded by open space, a few picnic tables, a lake w/ ducks.  There are also clean restrooms (which really matter when you have little ones)!

It was a planned activity for our homeschool group.  It was good to see our friends and great to be able to hold adult conversations.  The children have spent enough time together so that they can pretty much do things without a whole lot of supervision.  We were actively watching them, but didn't have to intervene much at all.  It was fun to watch them create games and hear their excitement as they retold what happened on our ride home.  We stayed until 5pm (arriving about 11am)--so we were ALL full of fun & sun! :D

They slept great last night.  So did I.  Sometimes you just need a day out of doors playing.

Progress!!

So this is what it looks like after 2 and a half days of sorting, purging and organizing!  I'm pretty excited about this.  I have three storage containers in the closet: 1 with our art supplies, 1 containing the future kits of Saxon Phonics, the last one with 3rd-6th grade resources.  Anyone who knows me will KNOW this is a BIG deal!!! (that I am down so a bookshelf and 3 containers!!!)  I'm glad to be down to so little and hope to streamline more as necessary.

We've also started our 'new' schedule.  The children have always had chores and other responsibilities around the house, but due to all of the packing, moving, waiting, unpacking, adjusting, etc. I haven't been consistent in these areas.  Each day has been it's 'own' day--literally.  We need some predictability in our flexibility, if you know what I mean.  So, I did some talking about what we'd be doing and some demonstrating so they'd know exactly what to do....so far it's going smoothly!  (Yes, I know it's only Tuesday! lol)

Our 'school' time is already going better since we're better organized!!  The good thing is that Pretty Girl is used to our routine so have a specific space and time that we're focusing on it, with scheduled breaks, is working for her.  She still likes to fuss at the beginning of things--which can be bothersome on days that I'm not in the best place--but that is even starting to lessen.

Sweetie-pie and The Boy are still doing strictly hands-on activities during this time.  I let them choose what they'd like to "do for school" each day--it's still working well.

After lunch, which I allow the girls to make, on alternate days, I read-aloud to them.  Mostly books of their choosing, from the library, as well as a chapter book of my choosing.

Our day is still quick flexible to include outside time, free time/play time, working in the community garden, participating with our homeschool group/field trips/activities/ and going to the library. Each week the children get to choose an activity that they get to do with me alone.  Last week they each wanted to make something (food-wise).  This week we've planned similar activities.

A Starting Place

I'm organizing our classroom bookshelf.  I've always had in mind how I want it to work--like things together (near each other), things for the children in reach, books I don't want them into--out of reach! (smile).  Well, after a few years of having this wonderful bookshelf, I am finally taking the time to get it the way I'd like it.

A little background: I usually start off with it heading in this direction, but usually run out of time (or get tired of seeing boxes full of books) and just start putting things on it.  This time I let the children help me....lol

I've already been working on it a day, pulling things I don't need/want anymore and making stacks on the floor around the room.  So far, this is how it looks (don't gasp!).  Today I've taken out my sticky notes and written little subject/category headings and placed them where I'd like to find these things.  Simple enough, huh?


We'll see.  I'll take/post a finished photo when I get there (I'm hoping later day....if I don't have too many interruptions).

It's a good starting place, if nothing else. :D

Life in the Fast Lane!

Photo credit

I can't seem to slow down.
Really!!
But I am making every effort to. 
As I compare our calendar for April to the one for March, I've cut things in half...and am cutting half again for May.

It's been so nice to be about, in and out of the house, participating in home school activities, community activities, library activities.  But I'm feeling a bit dizzy! :D

I've also been doing a lot of reading/researching options for our homeschooling journey.  We are very flexible right now, perhaps a bit too much, and I'd like a little more structure.  Better yet, Pretty Girl needs some more structure.  So I've been reading, browsing, reviewing, asking other homeschooler's what's been working for them, reading, looking....you get the idea. :D

I've also decided to get rid of another big chunk of my 'stash.'  If you've been around any length of time, you know that I go through a 'purging' stage every so often.  Well, it's here again.  Perhaps Spring has brought it on, perhaps I see that I need to give away what I'm not using (or intend to use).

Our home school group will be having it's first curriculum sale/swap/giveaway at the end of next month--and so I'd like to be able to unload some of those things there.  What I leave with from that event I'll donate to our library's friends' group.

We've sure been taking advantage of the longer days.  The kids enjoy being outside in the yard until sunset most days.  It's nice to see them making up games and stories as they play together and alone.  We've been identifying birds, plants, trees and insects.  We haven't started planting outside, which has actually turned out to be a good thing since the weather keeps changing up on us!  It been dropping to the low 40s at night and jumping to the low 70s in the day.  (crazy!)

The other night we had terrible storms and a tree fell down in the backyard.  No roof damage!! but it's all over the deck and knocked over the overhang (umbrella-style shade) as well.  In the daylight, we saw that it wasn't just a few light branches but a HUGE portion of the tree.  Something else to add to the list of things to do in the back yard! :D

I'm going to make my rounds again---to see just what you've been up to!  We've been good. Learning, growing, doing.