Life Curves

Scheduling blues...

2012-01-20T12:29:00.000-06:00

Varying shades of eggs from our girls!

Well, life has been fairly standard. Thankfully all critters have been safe, and Sarah is laying her uber cool greenish blueish eggs more frequently. We've had rain and warmer weather the past couple of days but its grey and 32 today. Not quite cold but for a high today, its a tad bit on the chilly side (especially when yesterday was nearly 60!).

I find that I am missing the bi-weekly karate classes though. Somehow the distraction was nice; it was great to see the kiddos doing their thing, and somehow, adding them to our schedule helped me keep track of time better. When you are in a rural area with just kiddos and yourself, it is much too easy to have a full ~~days~~ weeks fly by without even noticing. I look forward to February when we get to go back!

I STILL need to get my life into a better schedule! The problem is I get all happy and detailed and make this super shiny, magnificent schedule. That alone takes me a couple days. Then I am joyful and proud of my amazing shiny schedule and "take a break" for a couple of days since crafting it was apparently equal to taking on a marathon.

Then I admire said schedule. Marveling at its engineering.. at it's magnificence. Delighting in how genius it is and how it will fix all that is wrong with the world.

Finally, the day comes! I am going to IMPLEMENT the schedule! Initially it works well, but maybe just a bit binding if not "pinchy". A week later I grow weary because the schedule is just not working, but it should! Just a few weeks into it I grow to resent that shiny schedule. It is all that is wrong with the world! Evil and demanding!!

Finally, irritated and resentful I return to the old schedule...

I think I will try a somewhat modified version of fly-lady. Not the whole program (I hate shoes!) but I will modify it to make for a more consistent schedule, and to be able to add more FUN to our daily schooling. (I always want to do more fun projects during their day but rarely actually DO it. I'd also like to add Art as an official subject.)

OR.... do you have any suggestions of something better?? I need it to be free or very nearly free.

Renewing & Refreshing

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

I typically try to stay away from New Year Resolutions, mostly because it seems like I am resolving to have some more failure in my life LOL. I now take the time to try to review for me what is working and what is not.

Homelife....
I also want to be on a more regular schedule with keep the house. I tend to clean in waves which doesn't always work well if you get distracted from the regular schedule. (Plus if you swing by during a end of a wave, you will have some clutter to contend with.) I am trying for a easy daily schedule, I can stay on top without being too thrown with a life interruption. Does anybody have a great weekly list they can share?

Budget...
We were making headway with the budget but it all fell apart with Christmas buying, paying bills, and the two week paycheck omission and travel expenses from having dear husband back home for the Christmas break (and New Years this year!).

Break the budget to a savings powerhouse so we can feel comfortable with hubby moving away from San Diego headquarter job and to one closer to home, hopefully for good! I am growing oh so weary of his out of town work. We call it deployment since he can be gone for months at a time. I feel like a military wife but without any of the military perks!

Homeschooling...
This year I want to refocus on homeschooling - doing more than minimal and going further into library book use (as soon as the library goes state wide - yay!) and fun, hands-on learning. I will also be adding spelling to my 2nd graders curriculum and hopefully some fun learning games as well.

I just discovered Math Blaster and Reader Rabbit for free online and the kids seem to enjoy it quite a bit as well. Of course, they do offer paid subscriptions with more benefits but for now, I think we will stick with the free. If it proves to be an enormous resource that is worth the subscriptions, then I will look into it further.

Begin to bring the youngest into a more steady school schedule with his handwriting and reading elements.

I would also like to find a co-op or a homeschooling family out there still. Karate is great and it does give us time with others in our community - I just want a bit more.

Well, those are my goals for the upcoming year... what are yours?

Mommy musings

2012-01-07T13:42:00.003-06:00

Today has started out fantastic! I got another egg (#3) from my amerucana chicken (she lays greenish blue eggs!) today, all my critters are safe and sound this morning, I have coffee and creamer, and I slept well even though I keep going to bed far too late.

We also opened a new game we got the kids for Christmas. Its Called Active Life: Explorer With Mat

and it is AWESOME!

First of all, it is only $19.99. It comes the game AND a fully interactive controller mat. :crazyb: (I bought it off Amazon simply because of the reviews and the price.)

The game is a BLAST! The graphics are good and it is engaging! You don't even realize you are working out! (I feel refreshed, invigorated and happy! [well, expect my legs which are wobbly right now hehe])

Each challenge adds rewards and opens levels for the open play area as well (but we have really only played the full game thus far).

I LOVE that the game can have up to four players! We typically play just two and the boys and I will share since Mason is still young and "shorts out" after a while. Some of the challenges are harder than others but we had a blast. For those with a Wii, I cannot recommend it more! :hehe:

I didn't mean to make that sound like an advertisement or something but it really IS so much fun, I HAD to share it!
*(no, I did not get this for review nor am I encouraged to share the product. I bought it on my own, without incentive)

Merry Christmas (just a bit early)

2011-12-17T11:37:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to all of my blogging friends!

I am especially thankful this year as my husband's job has a hiatus and will be coming back into town tomorrow!!

I have been a bit of a slacker with my blog lately. We took on Martial Arts for both kiddos and we have been adjusting to that new part of our schedule, but also Christmas shopping and such. It's taken my time elsewhere.

I just wanted to take the opportunity before DH is home (and we are otherwise distracted) to say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I will return after the new year. May the Lord God Almighty Bless you and keep you and yours this Christmas season and beyond. <3

Book Nook: Inside threat review

2011-12-06T13:57:00.001-06:00

Just taking a moment to share one of my latest reviews from my book nook. Today is "Inside Threat" from my Tyndale Media.

I know some of you don't love the book nook, but I so love books and I like to share them! hehehe. Please feel free to omit if you are just "not into it." :D

....I was disappointed to find that this was actually the last of the four-book series so I am jumping into the end. However, this book was a fast pasted journey and quite an emotional journey!

I love that the book starts with praise to the Lord and that the language and the adult themes in the book is toned down. But the story is what grabs you.

Inside threat is a thriller that is paced well, keeps you guessing, and captivates your heart. The multiple points of view from the characters (especially the terrorists) was an interesting spin. From the start it sucks in you and doesn't let go. I only wish I knew this was part of a series - I would've liked to start at the beginning.

I received this book for review for free however my review is honest and forthcoming. I will never post positive if I don't feel a book is worthy. ;)

A little about me.

2011-11-09T09:35:00.000-06:00

Random information about me, Diana.

1.I adore singing and music. Especially praise songs. (you will often catching me singing at any random moment during the day.)

2. I was "childless by choice" for years before we "tried to get pregnant". One time. Then we both freaked out and decided to stop trying. Little did we know that the Lord had already blessed us!

3. Having children was the best thing, and the most challenging thing that's ever happened to me.I would be absolutely joyful if the Lord chose to give us more kiddos.

4. I adore Tennessee! I am so joyful that the Lord led us here. I am patiently waiting for the final pieces of this journey to come together so we can be done with this transition.

5. I truly enjoy listening to on-line sermons as I work on things on my computer or as I drive somewhere.

6.I LOVE having chickens! They are peaceful, beautiful and amazing critters. And that we get eggs from them? So that much more cool. I would have 30 if I could. (lol)

7. I am very scatterbrained and forgetful, always have been. After having kids it got a bit worse.

8.I want to learn how to sew, not just wing it, and how to play the piano.

9. I love creating things. I love the challenge of researching and developing new formulary; especially when the creations end up working so much better than store bought stuff!

10. I have a small business in which I make and sell natural makeup, soaps, facial care, lotions, deodorants and that kind of thing. It's all made by hand, from scratch.

11. I am a curriculum junkie. I get so excited researching new things, better way to teach, or innovative, fun learning. I am constantly reading and researching whats out there, planning ahead, and seeking it for as little as possible. I adore quality FREE resources.

12. I would love to be a "homesteader"; living off our land and animals predominately and fully off the grid. First we'd have to own some land though. LOL

13. I love to bake. I used to own and operate a small artisan bakery where we predominately made wedding cakes. I loved the creativity of it all but really struggled with the stress and less enjoyable aspects of it all.

14. I'm not a natural savory cook. Nothing seems to be intuitive which I find frustrating. Its all learned behavior and my new recipes I make up often fail. Thank goodness for a hubby who is an amazing cook (and cookbooks!) LOL

15. The Lord is continually transforming my heart. Giving me insight and patience; guiding me to be a godly wife and mother, friend and servant. I am significantly different than I was just five years ago. I just wish I learned faster!

16. I adore reading and learning. I think I enjoy time on the internet simply because I can continually read and learn. I can go though 30 books a month, or more, if I had the time!

17.I adore fall! I love the chill and the promise of storms. I love the falling of the leaves and the changes of the colors. I prefer winter over summer. Hot is not my friend.

18. I loath laundry. It is my biggest nemesis. Washing and drying is fine but it's the folding and putting away that is my biggest struggle.

19. I love decorating for holidays! I will decorate regardless of what I have or where I am. But I am often lazy about taking them down. (I don't like it afterwards; it feels empty)

20.I enjoy the Bible online (or my kindle) more than the physical book most days. Probably because I can highlight without "ruining it". (Too many years in public schools and borrowed books) and because I have so many different translations so I can switch between them at will or need.

When the spirit moves you...

2011-11-07T20:47:00.000-06:00

Today I have been blessed beyond measure. I have truly been touched by the Holy Spirit. For some time I have wondered, and often met with skepticism (of my own) to the whole believing of tongues mentioned in the Bible. Anointing with oil? Fine with it. Healing from God? not only fine with it but personally believe in the healing powers of the Lord and, I have experienced it first hand. But tongues? Not sure. Doubtful...

Now, I attend a Pentecostal church. Let me first say that I did not KNOW it was a Pentecostal church the first time I went there, I just felt "called" to attend and found their doctrine to be sound. I am not a "Holy Roller" and you won't likely find me being the vocal one in the crowd. But my heart is on fire for the Lord our God, and I am blessed with a congregation as joyful in the spirit and that we have a Pastor that delivers Scripture messages full force. He holds no punches and sweetens no milk. The truth, the light, the Word of the Lord.

Today in our sermon, there was mentioning of the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and the fact that the baptism of spirit often presents itself as the ability to speak in tongues. Of course, that got my mind wondering and my prayers lifting. (Often my prayers of this nature are more of a spiritual musing with the Lord. A light conversation, if you will).

I passively spoke with the Lord about this whole "tongues" thing. Then, as we had fellowship afterward the Lord's Supper, I felt compelled to pray for a fellow sister in Christ and started speaking with her. She spoke of the baptism of spirit, and the gift of tongues and the like. Again, I mused and prayed over it as I drove home.

I had some spiritual connection this evening and fell onto Facebook, mostly just by habit. There another Sister in Christ mentions speaking in tongues and such! I was totally blown away and read again, which lead me to pray more fervently. Part of my more private side is embarrassed to say, but mostly my heart will not bear the silence; I have to share!

Tonight, after praying, I felt a stirring... a pressing urge to just let go. I was resistant; I didn't understand it, but I thought, "Maybe this is what my prayers are leading to". So gave in. Out of my mouth comes what I can only describe as it is mentioned here in the Bible...

1 Corinthians 14:14-15

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁴ For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. ¹⁵ So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.

It was unlike anything I have ever experienced. I had never had a time in my life where my mind WAS unfruitful but my spirit joyful, praising, praying, and thankful in ways I could not possibly express! I am still in awe.

For those of you who are still skeptical; I did not research the above verse before I had this experience. I did not have any idea what it would be like, what to expect, or how to feel. Honestly, I didn't even know it was there! But I CAN tell you, I HAVE felt that urge before. I just never understood what it was. Me being so internalized, so private, I do not give into things like this. Perhaps if my physical body was as immediately as obedient as my spirit, I would've had this experience years ago!

I share this intimate experience with you and it makes me uncomfortable. I am a private person on very personal levels and I am really opening myself up with this. But, this experience was just so joyful! I want others who stumble upon this to know, this once skeptical mind has peace.

I am not sure if that single gift of the spirit is the only one that shows the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, but I am thankful I was given the gift nerveless. Personally speaking, I can not get enough gifts from the Lord. ;)

Fall Break?

2011-11-01T12:48:00.003-05:00

One thing I love about homeschooling is it's flexibility!
When we suddenly had our landlords "want to visit" (read: walk though our home like the local house police/inspector [apparently an odd, but common thing property owners do out here, supposedly to make sure you are keeping the house in good shape, but it felt more like an invasion of privacy. Not that the place was a mess but I don't typically invite people I barley know to visually inspect every. single. room in my house either. I won't lie to you, it was somewhat traumatizing to me. I am a very private person. ])
They finally took note that the patios on the property were getting dangerous (the lower side patio being the worst).

Well, that lead to a immediate decision to get it done by the landlord and the very next day they had heavy equipment out, and they were ripping out walls, tree stumps, cutting tress and the like. Yikes! They also decided to just rip out the entire concrete and brick patio off the back of the house as well. They will be replacing it with a wood deck instead. That was a little bitter for me as we really loved that patio. I just pray the wood deck will be an upgrade not just a stop gap for them to spend as little as they can to "fix the problem."

But that leads to homeschooling. Its obvious we cannot school with chainsaws, huge dump trucks, and tractors ripping at the foundations of the house! It's just too distracting! I am so joyful that homeschooling allows for flex-time. We can take our breaks as they present the need!

So this week will be about construction, materials, design, logic, equipment, tools and materials instead. Life lessons are often the best homeschooling after-all! :D

Inspired Stumble Upon: Guest Hollow FREE Curricula

2011-10-10T19:18:00.000-05:00

I have been searching for next year's curriculum. I am a major planner and I tend to buy curricula used, often times at ebay or the like, and that takes patience, time and waiting to score that amazing deal. I typically start researching and buying elements for next year shortly after we being a new year.

First of all, I want to make sure the curricula we are using works for us. If we love it, then I consider the same publisher for the next year. If it is not working, then I look at why and start to seek what we could use instead.

We adore My Father's World adventures! We are learning a TON, having fun and making memories; exactly what we are looking for in a curriculum. So, I have been reading reviews and preparing to purchase their next phase in their cycle; Exploring Countries and Cultures.

However, reviews on the next year's MFW ECC are pretty loud and clear: the program is geared for older grades and takes much modification to adjust it to my children's ages. Yes, it can be done, but I am of the mind that I paid for a pre-made curriculum, I want it to be "grab and go". If I am constantly having to amend it to work, then it is not working for me.

Since my kids are on the youngest phase of their multi-aged family cycle, I am seriously considering adding a year (or two) to effectively gap the age/grade difficulty issues. That leads us to today's stumble upon!

GUEST HOLLOW FREE CURRICULUM!

: Otter's Physics

Ancient History Curriculum
Check out our FREE ancient history!

American History
Curriculum
Check out our FREE homeschool history! This is a year long literature based history study for grades 2-6, or as a homeschool supplement for grades K - middle school.

American History
Curriculum 2!
This free American history supplement / curriculum / program was originally written for the target grades of 2-8 (with a few extras for older students as well).

Otter's Science Curriculum: The Human Body
Join us on a FREE 33 week literature based tour through the human body, first aid and survival using "living books"!

Little Otter's Science is for preschoolers through 1st grade. This is a gentle, literature approach to science with simple experiments and activities.

Otter's Elementary Science is designed for 2nd to 6th graders though you could easily use this program for a student up to 8th grade. I've included a variety of engaging books, websites, activities and experiments for a fun filled year of study.

Big Otter's Science is for high schoolers. It can be a supplement to Otter's Elementary Science so you can combine your younger kids with bigger kids and still study the same subjects or it can also be used as a stand alone curriculum with plenty of labs, some great optional DVD's and a unit at the end on survival and first aid.

There is more on the page too!

My TOP TEN cons to homeschooling (for fun)

2011-10-07T10:46:00.002-05:00

1. Parent-Teacher conferences do not reveal any new insights.

2. Need a break without hiring a sitter? Expect messes. LOTS OF MESSES.

3. There is nobody to complain to when the teacher isn't doing her job.

4. Art class consists of painting each other instead of the papers, because the teacher had to use the restroom.

5. No teachers assistants.

6. Trying to get out (shopping, appointments etc) without them! Never free unless I hire a sitter. $$

7. No substitute teachers to call in if you are feeling sick or burnt out.

8. Taking phone calls. I have to run outside and walk around the house to get a call without major interruptions.

9. Blogging without kiddos interruptions is impossible (unless you get up super! early or go to bed super late)

10. Nobody keeps the kiddos at their home for you when they are sick.

Week of MFW Adventures

2011-10-04T17:11:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've updated our MFW Adventures progress. We have had a blast these past few weeks for sure.

Here's Christopher Columbus week. We made The Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria out of aluminum foil and natural materials. We used corn husks and leaves instead of traditional sails.

It was a lovely rainy day so our seasonal creek was flowing. We all had so much fun sailing these ships down the "river". I took a lot of pictures but unfortunately, the rain caused almost every single one to come out blurry. But this is at least a snapshot of them "sailing". LOL

This week has been delayed due to some health issues. We've been plugging away at the basics instead; handwriting, reading, phonics, and math mostly.

Colonial America Links for MFW Adventures - Resources

2011-09-28T11:17:00.000-05:00

Links for our upcoming Jamestown, Colonial & Pilgrim resources...

So far, we are really LOVING My Father's World Adventures!

My Father's World Adventures - Resources

2011-09-16T17:17:00.000-05:00

Part 1 of my series of links to resources for our curriculum this year. I thought since I am not the only one using MFW-A, that I would share what I come across!

My Father's World Adventures:

Upcoming lessons resources....

On the Trail of Captain John Smith (interactive adventures)

The Jamestown Adventure

Historic Jamestown Webpage & Lesson Plans

Homeschool Updates!

2011-09-16T15:09:00.000-05:00

All is well at our (very!) wanna be homestead! We are plugging away at My Father's World but have made some adjustments as well.

Initially we were going to stick with MFW 1st grade but as we delved into the curriculum, I found that it was too simple. (yay!) So we shifted gears and are joyfully using

My Father's World: Adventures!

Excerpt from their webpage:

Travel back in time and explore U.S. history and patriotic symbols from a Christian perspective with fascinating stories, hands-on activities, a timeline, and a student created history notebook. Also includes U.S. geography, Bible, science, art, music, and more.

Focus: The Names of Jesus Teach Us His Character
U.S. history
Patriotic symbols
50 states
Nature studies
Children in history
Notebooking
Timeline
Hands-on-activities

We've been adjusting to the new homeschooling curriculum AND the new addition to it. Mason tries but he cannot seem to conceptualize that the "big boy lessons" are only for Zander. He has educational toys, we do history, bible, science, and a bit of geography together but he likes to be there for the flashcards for phonics and math when we do hands-on work with Zander. (He is still much too young to get anything but letters and numbers yet). Mmmm that gives me an idea... maybe I will mix in HIS flashcards with Zanders so he CAN be a part of it. He just randomly belts out numbers It's a bit disconcerting. He's also just FOUR.

I have to remind myself this and to keep encouraging him to take breaks and go play. Though there are other days where I would be happier if *all* he did was go play. I guess its a bit of both, depending on the day, but I digress.

This new curriculum I LOVE. It is easy to follow and easy to implement as well. My biggest struggle is? We are enjoying it TOO much. We simply don't spend as much time on each subject as I would personally like to! Of course, that's okay, but I like to STAY within that wonderful weekly grid they provide and if we take delight driven detours, it messes that all up. Yeah the perfectionist in me peeks out from time to time. I am trying to get over that. I will not be controlled by the curriculum. I will not be controlled by the curriculum. (manta... repeat!)

PS: For those of you who asked... We did NOT get chosen. This new system is like winning the lottery. *sigh*

Cuisinart Smart Stick!

2011-09-13T11:29:00.001-05:00

Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender - 200W
The versatile stick design of the Cuisinart Smart stick Hand Blender lets users blend ingredients right in pots, pitchers, bowls, or clear plastic beaker that's included. A powerful 200-watt motor operates with an easy one-touch control. Blends drinks, purees soup, mixes pancake and crepe batters in seconds! Both stainless steel blending shaft and beaker are dishwasher-safe. Perfect for making all of your delicious fall recipes!

It's yet another opportunity as a buzz agent to win a product trial! We tried mighty hard to get the kindle promotion, but they skipped us over. :( HOWEVER, we have an opportunity to get selected for the Smart Stick!

I really, really need an Immersion Blender in the worst way! I had one long ago, that I bought from a different brand, and it litterly burnt out the third time I used it!

Cuisinart is known for their immersion blenders and have life spans to prove it. My Grandma has one from years and years ago that is still a workhorse in her kitchen. I would adore being selected THIS time.

Crazy yummy crepes we could make if we were selected!

Doesn't this look good? Oh so yummy? Well, we could if we were selected! I have so many fall goodies pinned at pinterest! This would make cooking a dream. WE WANNA MAKE CREPES! :)

Please pick me as a selected reviewer this time! :)

BTW: If you are not already a buzz agent, here is the link to them. I have been an agent since 2006 and I adore them! No spam, no junk mail, they have never sold my information, and I get to try countless cool things!

Interesting Life Lessons

2011-09-05T05:49:00.001-05:00

I find it rather amazing how God works. Sometimes he moves in the most obvious and logical directions. Other times, it is more of a strong wind, waiving from Northeast to East; like watching and praying over the struggles of others. Other times, it’s though the eyes of your children.

In my life, I have struggled personal footholds that frustrate me. Too often I have been too get too quick to react and slower to focus. It would be obvious then, that my children would also struggle with some of the same things I do. It amazes me just how much MINISTERING to OTHERS (my children) also ministers to my own heart! Deut 6:6-7 “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children.”

Time and time again, I have addressed issues with my children, explaining and reading scriptures as to what to do, how to do, and how to control yourself. They may have been listening… they may have not; but MY heart did!

The Lord truly moves in amazing ways. His ways are not my own, and for that, I am immensely thank you!

Jeremiah 29:13 ”You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Tennessee Living...

2011-09-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

Have you ever thought "Hey, this would be perfect for my blog." but then never updated it or posted the information? Well, yeah that's me.

If I posted every time I had these great moments, I sure would have a fabulous blog. But... life gets in the way. While having those moments, I get separated from those thoughts to tend to needs or issues otherwise more urgent. It is, what it is. LOL

So today, I thought I would simply update on our Tennessee living.

We've had friends and family, and surprise visits. It's been hot and muggy, hot and dry, but also sometimes stormy, windy and had our share of some amazing thunderstorms as well! In short, we love it here.

The hen house (summer version) is completely constructed and being enjoyed by the four remaining hens. They are so big already but we won't be getting eggs until around October.

I will be adding an enclosed fence to the hen house shortly but I wanted them settled in the hen house first. Of course, I will take some pictures. :)

In addition, we went out this past weekend and selected new baby chickens to add to our family! This time we choose Ameraucana's (to replace what we lost) and two need breeds,two Bantam (small) Buff Cochins, and one Light Brahma which is known more for their friendly easy going nature. They are decent layers but the kids really want chickens that are friendly and they can hold without hours of chasing (lol).

This added to the one Ameraucana we have, two Black Star (or black sex-linked) and one Barred Rock. For now, our chicken family is complete and we couldn't be happier!

They are a wonderful addition to our home for educational purposes, for family fun and bonding purposes, and for provisions of eggs and even free fertilizer too!

PS: I tried, very hard to add pics to this post but our internet out here has been very(VERY!) slow lately. It keeps locking up. I will post some great pics as soon as it will let me.

Tidal Homeschooling...

2011-08-10T07:11:00.000-05:00

For some time now I have been struggling with how to properly put our homeschooling journey into a written perspective. I am eclectic with curriculum and teaching styles but I stumbled across a fantastic blog today that really, beautifully, puts the true scope into perspective.

She calls it Tidal Homeschooling and her description is simply beautiful.

Here is an excerpt:

We have high tide times when I charter a boat and we set sail with purpose and direction, deliberately casting our net for a particular type of fish. On these excursions I am the captain; I have charted the course. But the children are eager crew members because they know I value their contributions. And also I provide generous rations. No stale or moldy bread on this ship: no dull textbooks, no dry workbooks. My sailors sink their teeth into fresh, hearty bread slathered with rich butter and tart-sweet jam. Well fed and proud of their work, my little crew exhilarates in the voyage. Every journey is an adventure.

And we have low tide times when we amble along the shore, peering into tide pools and digging in the sand, or just relaxing under beach umbrella. The children wander off in directions of their own choosing; they dig and poke and ponder. One of them may crouch over a rock pool and stay there for days, studying, watching. Another will run headlong into the waves, thrilling to the pull on her legs, splashing, leaping, diving under and emerging triumphantly farther out. Or a child might prefer to stay close by my side, drawing stick pictures in the sand or building a castle. All of these things may be happening at once. Sometimes it looks as though nothing is happening: there's just an array of bodies on beach towels. But oh, the nourishment there is in a time of quiet reflection while the soul soaks up the sunlight!

This is SO us! Melissa outlines the concept in more detail, with additional posts here. Are you a tidal homeschooler?

Country Living...

2011-08-08T19:11:00.001-05:00

We have been having visitors over for the past couple of weeks. First my best friend came in for 7 days, all the way from Oregon! We had the best time, dispite the circles that our gps took us on. LOL
Then my parents came out for an extended weekend, that extended an extra day after that!

It was a delight having so many people over! Of course, after they left it was back to life. I have found myself in a bit of a funk so getting things done in a motivated, timely manner has been a struggle.

The day after my parents left we found that our dear chicken coop had been infiltrated! We lost two chickens and have one rehabbing right now but looks to be on the mend. We have been busy purchasing and putting together a "hen house" for them. This is an upgrade from our original pen which was open and roaming.

The intention here is to have the "ladies" roam about freely during the day, and return for fresh food and water in the evenings, locking them safely away. The hen house will be full enclosed in the winter, and chicken wire enclosed in the summer. It is now 90% done after today... hurray!!

Tomorrow I need to fit and install a chicken door, move their food and such, and lure them in! I am so excited! I also bought some organic feed and some chicken scratch treat for them today! I cannot wait!!

Thought for the day... In retrospect... chickens are expensive when you are just starting. Wood, screws, paint, chicken wire, food, feeders, watering containers, pine shavings, etc. The initial investment must yield me some amazing eggs to be worth it financially. Personally though, they ARE a lot of fun to have as pets. It's relaxing to watch them. lol. I'll stop rambling now. hehe

Book Nook Review: It Just Couldn't Happen

2011-08-08T06:08:00.000-05:00

What an exciting new product! As a home-schooling family, this has just taken it's place in our standard curriculum! If you are not a home-schooler this is still a fantastic resource. Want to address those tougher questions about biblical vs scientific subjects typically taught in schools? This is fantastic for that too!

The book is easy to read, geared for all ages as it is well written, and has fantastic pictures to captivate. "It Just Couldn't Happen" outlines the points of view in easy to digest segments, providing not only "facts" but a means for you to discover and understand how science comes to its conclusions as well. They encourage learning more, seeking your own answers and going further. (perfect for library visits or building further for older children).

The "Just for Fun" area is a fantastic addition to the book as well. At the end of each chapter they place fun, fanciful questions (such as: if you could live on any plant, what would it be an why?)and hands-on experiments. These engage minds and hands, bringing the subjects to a new level of imagination and interaction; a perfect way to retain knowledge and fuel further passions for learning!

I also love that the book takes both science and bible verses to guide you on the learning journey; something so other books so often fail to do. It's a delight to see that science CAN be merged with Biblical wisdom and rather seamlessly as well.

Overall, the book was a delight. I receive this as an e-book to review from book sneeze but honestly, I may go out and buy the tangible paper version - I see this being a beloved portion of our curriculum for years to come.

Book Nook Review: The Fight of Our Lives...

2011-08-04T13:17:00.000-05:00

The Fight of our lives is really aptly named as the book takes you inside the truth of raw, real Islam facts. The book is written from a conservative point of view but they work hard at keeping the facts laid out neutral. Revealing facts without the overtly emotional opinions most books like to use as a basis, The fight of Our Lives addresses the issues well.

On a personal note, I believe this book should be read by everyone in America. Honest, traceable facts bring to light the true nature of radical Islam. How by their very doctrine, radical Islam is a threat to the American way of life and that it simply cannot co-exist "peacefully" as so many other want to believe. Their own doctrine outlaws it. A fascinating, insightful read. Highly recommended.

Inspired Stumble Upon!

2011-08-04T12:36:00.000-05:00

I ran into this post today from the "we are that family" blog. It inspired me. There is so much truth to this that so many people ignore. Many of us mothers are really just needing that extra acknowledgement that we are doing good. That our struggles are not unique or outlandish and that we are important and needed. I especially needed this today so I thought I would share it...

What Every Mom Needs
10:25 pm Bykristen
In my past eleven years of parenting, there have been moments when I’ve been absolutely desperate for a nod of approval from a family member or a friend or both-you know one that says, “it’s going to be okay, you’re doing a good job.” Just that simple act can brighten a mom’s day when she feels inadequate, exhausted, and is currently wearing the lovely shade of spit-up.
I guarantee there’s a mom in your life right now–a daughter-in-law, a friend, new neighbor with a baby on her hip and one in her belly, or you’re own reflection in the mirror–who needs a nod today.
What Every Mom Needs
Honesty
It’s okay, really. My kids argued constantly. You will survive this phase. This is normal.
I had a picky eater also. Once for a week, she only ate marshmallows and glue.
I lost my temper, too. That doesn’t make you a bad mother, only human (in need of chocolate).
Don’t be so hard on yourself. Every mother gets a year or so behind on well child checkups (RIGHT??)
Not-Too-Much-Honesty
No, that’s never happened to me. My baby slept 8 hours each night since birth and was perfect. Something must be wrong with you.
It took me seven years to lose the baby fat, too. It might take you eight (pats flabby arm)
My kids never acted that way in public. Are you giving them red dye?
What is wrong with your child? <——–Don’t ever say that to a Mom.
Every mom needs to know:
——————————THEY ARE NOT ALONE————————————
Every mom needs to feel:
————————–LOVED WITHOUT EXPECTATIONS————————-
Every mom needs to be told:
——————————-THEY ARE APPRECIATED——————————
Every mom needs to believe:
———————————THEY ARE ENOUGH——————————–
Every mom needs to remember:
———————HE IS ENOUGH, WHEN THEY AREN’T———————-
Are you a mom? What do you need today

In one word, what do you need?

Amazing Moments

2011-07-28T13:39:00.000-05:00

Our oldest is officially baptized!
I had a wonderful group of friends with us and we all felt surrounded by warmth and love Sunday.

When it was time for the baptism, I took Zander into the back room and changed clothes. I SO wish I had brought a camera into the back chamber... he was very small for the people to see from the front and the best efforts to record it really fell flat. It's just because he's so small

He got into the water and listened as they instructed him what was to happen, and to what to expect. The performed the ceremony, fully immerse Zander in the water and finish the ceremony. As they begin to leave the baptismal, Zander sits up and quietly asks me "Am I baptized mommy?"

I, teary eyed respond "You sure are baby" (my heart bursting with joy)

He gets this look on his face I hope I will never forget. It was a rapturous, beaming joy with a face similar to this guy but overwhelmingly happy instead. Much like the light and amazement in a childs face as he comes out to all the presents on Christmas morning.

He paused a moment, as if mulling it over, and says quietly, "I am baptized" in a wonder-filled tone. It was so beyond precious.

THEN, as I am changing him back again he begins to dance. Jumping in place excitedly and singing "I am baptized, I am baptized, praise the Lord"

Oh how precious it would've been to get those moments on tape. Oh well, at least I have them here.

OH! I almost forgot too. Last week was his initial scheduling for the service but it was cancelled due to the baptismal not getting warm enough. However, on the way there, I ask Zander "Baby, aren't you excited you are going to be baptized today?"

He says, most conversationally "Oh yes Momma, I am so excited. I have a full party in my head. My party keeps saying "Zander's getting baptized, oh yeah, oh yeah" (in a sing song voice). So cute and more like his father everyday.

It is amazing how children come to faith so easily and adults struggle so much. Zander's baptism was something he had laid upon his heart by the Lord. I tried to get him to wait until his Dad was back in town from his current job-site in Idaho but he really pushed to have it right away.

It's also amazing because it opened up the joys of faith and believing to others his age. His cousin wanted to know more, wanted to seek HIS face, and follow in obedience as well. I was over-joyed to share with her the reasons why we baptize and salvation. Plus all the kids in the children's ministry bared witness as well. The Lord is glorious and I pray that my child's joy would also be that for others. Praise the Lord!

Gearing up for Summer School

2011-07-05T17:03:00.000-05:00

We are gearing up for our version of "Summer School" this year, which for us, is a gap filler for many reasons. Why are we summer schooling?

To help reinforce the concepts and skillwork already taught during our last school year.
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To start a new curriculum with different, more cohesive concepts that also includes more hand-on activities including art and music. (My Father's World)
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To officially introduce the little one to K-4 with "real" schooling time (instead of just passive learning, songs or games).
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To bridge the gap between 1st and 2nd grade. All of the moving in last year really didn't provide a cohesive 1st grade program. The concepts were sound and on board, but I just don't feel he is where he should be for entry into second grade. He's very close but not quite there.

We are also excited as we are adding new curriculum, but also returning to some favorites. Our biggest leap is the addition of My Father's World. Initially we will be starting their 1st grade curriculum and then, with the beginning of our 2nd grade year (Sept. 7th est.) moving into their 5 year "wheel" beginning with "Adventures." That, of course, pending on where the boys are and if they'd rather finish the whole 1st curriculum books instead.

The second new thing will be the addition of Mason's reading program... we are skipping the "Time4Learning.com" curriculum we initially used with Zander as it was too repetitive, somewhat confusing for them, and very, very dull.

This time we are going with "Reading Made Easy" by Valerie Bendt. We are opting for her cd versions. I am really surprisingly excited about bringing this in! :D I am praying it will be the perfect, hands-on program for my little guy. We will also be adding to this with Starfall.com, and LessonPathways.com.

Zander will continue with Math-U-See, Click-n-Kids reading/phonics, and A Reason for Handwriting.

Of course, as the year progresses, we are very likely to take a tangent or two to chase after some delight driven concepts via unit studies.

Uh, we are still alive

2011-07-03T13:49:00.000-05:00

I was playing on facebook this afternoon when it struck me, I have not posted a single thing on my blog in far, far too long!

Doh!

Sorry about that. We had the move, then added chickens, and basically life started taking over. It's not like I didn't have free time - I did. But I just kinda got... distracted.

One reason is that cellular reception is very weak out here so getting online via my hotspot is quite a bit more frustrating and sometimes outright impossible. I am looking into buying and installing one of those cell signal boosters that install inside and outside antennas. Hopefully, once that upgrade is made, I will be online (and subsequently, at my blog) a lot more often.

We have had some things happening. One of the baby chickens died as she was accidentally closed into a door by my oldest son. He was heartbroken and cried so hard. Of course, it had to be the BEST, Favorite chicken. sigh...

So we did what any normally mommy does... we went and picked out another one. And then another. LOL So now we have 7 chickens. I am excited though because the two newer babies are much sweeter and they are Americanas (sp?) which means they will lay colored eggs that vary between green and blue! I am really looking forward to that!

I am hoping to keep updated and back with new pictures too! I hope you all have a wonderful 4th of July tomorrow! Have fun and keep cool!

Book Nook Review: Grey Matter

2011-06-01T22:49:00.000-05:00

Gray Matter: A Neurosurgeon Discovers the Power of Prayer . . . One Patient at a Time by Joel Kilpatrick
Edition: Paperback

Gray Matter is a fantastic story of a neurosurgeon who feels lead to offer prayer and praying with his patience despite the risks to his profession. He takes a leap of faith and decides to listen to his convictions which ultimately leads him in a path of the unknown except, that is, by God. His simple obedience lead to countless lives touched.

The Book grabs you nearly the instant you begin (my favorite!) and keeps you going. The story often makes you as if you were there with him (or at least it did for me). I found his honestly and his leap of faith to be refreshing. I do hope this will lead other doctors to do the same.

A great book and an inspiring read!

(Disclosure: as a member of the Tyndale media blogging community, I selected this title as a free trial. The opinions are my own; honest and without influence.)

Life Updates - Moving again! p2

2011-05-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

We are still plugging away at the move! I have got a lot moved and put away but also there is still quite a bit that needs to be transported.

My husbands twin and his family are coming out, with a trailer, to help me do the heavy moving. The couch would be an impossibility for me to move alone so I am really, really thankful that they are helping us, again! Two moves in less than 4 months for them! (he helped with the California move with my hubby). God Bless him. :)

I really want this house cleared of everything we can move with our own two hands, so I am working hard toward that goal. The move is this Saturday so I have to get it going if I am going to make it!

While off loading earlier this week, I was very happy to discover that they are putting in a brand new dishwasher (after a fiasco I had one day while cleaning and moving a load out there) AND a newer fridge too. The old one is circa 1970's.

However, the fridge doesn't currently fit into the kitchen so he's been working on getting that in and the dishwasher. He was there today, apparently (finally) making progress.

The basement had water abatement issues that they were fixing when I saw the place. They've done two different things to it, and it seems like this last time may have been the ultimate fix. The problem is that the basement is now rather a mess. The laminate flooring is all warped and has seems peeling and lifting and the walls are not finished completely. Apparently they don't want to install anything until they are certain that the water issues are done. BUT it was supposed to have been done before we move in. It's putting a bit of a damper on my move because I cannot put things down there yet. A bit frustrating but whatever.

Okay, without further ado... here is the videos to the house... (please keep in mind, I made the video for dear husband so he could see what we were getting into.

Life Updates - Moving again! p1

2011-05-25T09:26:00.000-05:00

picture by Aeolos | Dreamstime.com

Hello world! It's been a while since I really have had time (or the energy) to post personal updates. The reason?

We are moving! Again. sigh. And also YAY!

I have been progressively moving a full Durango of things every day a week, except Sunday. I have been actively trying to get the things we use all the time unpacked and put away as well. This is in hopes that I will not be burnt out or overwhelmed once the move is complete.

Somehow, I lost a day this week too so when I woke up and looked at the calender, I nearly panicked when I saw that we only have 2 more days until moving day!

It seems that I am one of those people. No matter how hard I plan, work or actively pursue a perfect moving goal, I never hit the mark. I am always left scrambling and stressed out. sigh. This time however, I do have it much more together than last time, so that is a plus if anything. LOL

So, you may be asking yourself, "Why are they moving again, after just making the trek across country?" Well, for a couple of reasons...

First of all, once my husband finally brought out the majority of our stuff from California, it became painfully obvious that it was going to take a lot of work to get it all to work in our 2 bedroom, 1 bath space with all of 730 square feet.
It got to the point where I unpacked all I could and had boxes in nearly every room that could not be unpacked. The small, one car garage, was so full, I'd have to take boxes OUT just to unpack them and move them back in. I was either going to have to buy a ton of utility shelves or make them. Since we are out here predominantly by ourselves, that was going to be a massive undertaking for me alone.
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Second, I sort of believe it was the Lords will. (I say sorta because my own personal feelings for the place could have easily corrupted my clarity). However, a lot of detail regarding the house really felt like divine intention.

Here's how it happened... on a whim, I decided to look up the rentals in the area. I brought up the local paper online and found an ad that piqued my interest but I thought to myself "No, I don't want to take on additional rent - we are trying to save here". So I moved on

It wasn't 10 minutes later that something pinged my mind. Out of the blue I get a thought "That house does have 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms AND a basement. That is rarely found out here" So I went back online and looked up the address in google maps.

It looked promising. On yet another whim, I thought to myself, "It won't hurt to just go take a look at it." So I did. Oddly enough still, I felt the strong desire to program the rental contact number into the phone. That is something I NEVER do. ever.

So the kids and I take a little trip out to the rental. Initial view is that it is sooo much more than I had hoped. It was huge, with nearly 2 acres of land, beautiful trees, a back porch, the works. It was honestly nearly my vision of a dream home. So I called hubby. He acquiesced and I called the landlord. He came out and let me see it in less than 20 minutes!

Once inside, it was over. I was in love. The house is a bit outdated but has sooo much space, closets, room to roam and privacy that the cosmetics barely made a dent in my decision. I call hubby and he says to talk to the landlord and see if he would be willing to work with us.

So we go back to discuss the logistics (we were not in a position to put the payment on the property right away. We had to see if they were willing to accept the deposit in two weeks from then and then the first months rent at the start of the month.) Oh, and I had to meet his wife

So by the end of the meeting, we have me signing the contract with the promise to get the deposit in two weeks and to have hubby sign the contract. He kept saying that he NEVER does stuff like that as people tend to back out and leave them hanging. I assured him that wasn't going to be the case, and he hands me the keys to the house!

So you see, it FEELS like it was just met to be. And honestly, I pray that it *IS* met to be and I am not deluding myself. I find that that whenever I try to force something I want that is NOT the Lord's will, it almost always ends in some climatic failure.

Cool Free Book @ Amazon today!

2011-05-10T15:10:00.000-05:00

Don't Make Me Come Up There! Quiet Moments for Busy Moms

	TOTALLY FREE download for Kindle or Kindle App for your PC or Mac (also free)

	A calm moment is a rare find in a mom’s chaotic day. But she needs it. She needs the moment to refocus and refresh her soul. She needs the inspiration to find God in the mess and the mundane that often defines her. She craves the solitude of a moment with the Master to quiet the storms. She needs to laugh and remember why she loves being a mom. I just downloaded this myself! It looks great and is a perfect pick me up for us moms~!

Warning! Massive Vent Follows...

2011-05-02T09:54:00.002-05:00

VENT!

I have to say, I am so very irritated at the Christian feedback about Bin Laden from some sources. I, a fervent believer and lover of Jesus resoundingly disagree with this whole passivise push that so many Christians so blindly purport!

Bin Laden's death wasn't some petty payback, this was removal of a still viable, very powerful threat, not just on our country, but the world in large that doesn't follow Muslim law. Being a believer and follower of Jesus does not mean that we should sit back and let the world steam train over us!! Rebuke when it is called for - Jesus did it himself many times. If you don't think that defending nations, war and combat is biblical, read the Old Testament (ever read about the life of David?). Proverbs 21:15 "Justice is a joy to the godly but it terrifies evildoers." & 24:20 "For evil people have no future; the light of the wicked will be snuffed out."

The bible says EVERYWHERE that the Lord our God is unchanging. So tell me, why would it all suddenly change when Jesus came? Answer is: HE DIDN'T. There will still be a requirement to bear arms, to stand up, to rebuke and to be ready to defend! Sometimes the best defense IS offense. Until the Lord comes again, this is the facts of the fallen world.

I am so tired of some many Christians proclaiming that we constantly do NOTHING. Just bless and release is allowing further persecution amongst our own believers world wide; its also leading to enactment of laws and school policies that ultimately removed and undermine our rights in our own country. Imagine what it is like if we lay down to the world who loath us?

Far too many Americans have lived in a cozy cocoon of blindness. IF we do not stand up, bear arms and take action, then we will be conquered or made to live in constant fear of persecution or war. No, this is NOT a paranoid delusion - this is HISTORY. Read the Bible for all its worth - not just the sections that appease your passivise heart.

*Update, I want to make it personally known that I do not, nor have I rejoiced at this mans death.

I am not rejoicing that he is dead. It's so sad that men allow their hearts to harden to the point of bringing their hate and death upon the world and that action like this would be necessary. It is sad but we have free will and his choices were clearly made. *sigh

Happy Easter!!

2011-04-24T09:59:00.000-05:00

Christ has RISEN from the dead. Come Awake, Come and Rise Up from the Grave! Oh death where is your sting, Oh hell where is your victory? Oh Church come and stand in the Light!! Our God is not DEAD... He's ALIVE! He's ALIVE!!!

The Sullivan's are wishing you all a wonderful day in joyous celebration of the Risen Lord Jesus!

"This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it"!!!

Curriculum Review

2011-04-13T11:16:00.000-05:00

http://thefactortree.com/

Here is a great new addition to homeschooling or struggling students! It's called The Factor Tree and it's basic premise is to offer additional support and practice to elementary school kids from grade K-6 in basic math.

The Factor Tree allows for parent and child log-ins so you can setup worksheets, review their progress and target their weak spots; they even have a worksheet they generate based on what your child got wrong! My son especially loves their games, one of which is a timed speed drill. He loves seeing how fast he can go and how many he can get right!

Their description from their website says it perfectly:

What makes the Factor Tree so effective?
Provides the practice and repetition needed for a child to truly master key math skills
Use a skill-adaptive progression algorithm to pinpoint each child’s true skill level
Provides parents with helpful reports, metrics and notifications to track their child’s progress
Combines a state testing-compliant curriculum, world class educational theories and innovative technology to create a better learning tool

I truly like this program as anytime you can make math mastery FUN is a winner for me. The only thing I did not love about the site is the navigation. If you have a browser that has a couple add-on search bars, a lot of the navigation cannot be found. (I had to hit F11 to make it workable). The site is a bit confusing to start and is not intuitively created; there are no arrows or back markers or navigation trees. It was initially very irritating. However, it's does get easier once you get past the navigation learning curve.

Regular price for the Factor Tree runs at $20.00 per month for each student, which could get quite pricy if you have a family of homeschoolers using their service. However, it is a price worth paying if it truly helps foster a love of math in your children. It is also a much more affordable alternate to onsite match tutors such as Kaplan and the like. The great thing is you can sign up right now with a 14 day FREE trial that does NOT require a credit card to begin! Visit them direct at The FactorTree.com

Disclosure: I received a free 30 day trial as a BuzzAgent to review and share. The review and opinions are fully mine which are provided without bias.

What have we been up to?

2011-04-09T11:08:00.001-05:00

I have taken a bit of a hiatus from blogging lately; with the visit of my husband and subsequent offloading of, what seems, 2 million boxes, I have just been so overwhelmed lately!

Our little rental is just that, little. When unpacking I often will get into a box and have to go to place that already has items in it. Then I have to pull the current items, organize and put away the new items, then find a NEW place for the previous occupants. Often times, there isn't a place to put the old items (that I still need). This means they go into boxes or piles to be put away after I move something again or until I get the racks purchased, put together and installed in the garage. The result is chaos. I feel almost like one of those hoarders!! LOL Don't get me wrong - we have purged to the quick before we moved and I am finding I can purge even more. Eventually a garage sale will occur but again, those items return to a box for "later". It's enough to drive me crazy.

We also have started a new schedule and a new curriculum! whew! So far, the schedule is working well and we are loving My Father's World 1st grade! I will update on that later. For now, I have dishes calling.

Moving to Tennessee from California - Phase 2

2011-03-23T15:35:00.001-05:00

Well, its officially official; we are moving (and staying) in Tennessee! Some of you may think that is an odd thing to say since I have already posted several things about our move across country purely based on faith. However, I honestly was not sure.

Our initial plan was for me to haul our belongings along with 2 kids, 3 cats, and a 5 gallon bucket of aquarium fish. But, as you know, plans change! That wasn't the only time.

We had then planned to have everything shipped out her via freight or have my husband haul it out here two weeks later. That simply couldn't happen due to time and financial issues, so it was left open to basically "when it happens."

My husband stayed behind to fulfill work commitments which have long past but he is having a hard time walking away from a decent paying position; especially with the economy.

Honestly, with 99% of our belonging still in San Diego and the fact that my Husband still worked out there, visiting only every few months here, made me really question if we were REALLY going to "stay" this move.

However, hubby is on his way with all of our stuff!! He rented a moving van and will be coming here in just a few days! It seems much more like we are making the transition to Tennessee to stay. Yay!

So excited!

2011-03-18T16:56:00.000-05:00

I am sooo excited! We were chosen to participate in "What's in the Bible" street team!

This means, we get promotional materials and a screening copy of their newest DVD to review. I love doing reviews!

Here is what we are getting and will also be giving away free copies of too!

iction

Israel Gets a King!
What's in the Bible? #5
Phil Vischer
Binding:
Video (1 DVD)
ISBN:
978-1-4143-3634-3
List Price:
$14.99
Release Date:
May 2011
In What’s in the Bible? volume 5, Buck Denver and cast take us through 1 and 2 Samuel. The two episodes focus on three of the most influential kings of Israel (Saul, David, and Solomon). And the Tricky Bits section explains the Trinity (after we learn that the Spirit of the Lord fell upon David). The DVD highlights God’s promise to David and how the promise impacts the salvation story. We also see what happens when David (and the other kings) sin against God. Kids learn that there are consequences for sin!
From the man who made vegetables talk (and sing, dance, and tell Bible stories) comes an engaging new series that walks kids through the entire Bible! Each DVD is filled with an entertaining cast of characters that bring the most powerful Bible stories to life using humor, animation, creative storytelling, and fun songs. Join VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer on a wild and zany journey and see the world’s most amazing book come to life for a new generation.

Mommy Musings - An Update

2011-03-16T01:12:00.001-05:00

Hello Blogger Friends!

Today really feels joyful to me! I have started on Weight Watchers this week and so far, doing really well. I know that a lot of people are irritated that they switched to the Points Plus program in November; virtually making all of their previous purchases obsolete, at least to some extent.

But I like it. Yes, I have the entire program from before, complete with the fast food books and multiple sliders for point calculations. Yes, I had to buy some of the stuff over again. HOWEVER, this program is awesome! I am SUCCEEDING where I failed before. I am eating BETTER than I did before, healthier and more food as well.

Let me share with you why it seems to be working better. For one, they changed the daily points calculation so you now have more points to eat in a day. They also upped the bonus points too. The catch you may ask? Well, a lot of the foods went up in points as well.
This is GOOD for a couple of reasons.

First of all, having 34 points to eat is mentally much more attainable than say, 18. 18 seems stiffling, impossible, sooo limiting. Let me OUT of my 18! Give me FOOD! I need to EAT.
Of course, that's all in your mind but that really doesn't matter if its working against you.

Second, they have now allow nearly ALL FRUITS and VEGGIES (aside from starchy food like peas, carrots, potatoes;). For me, this is HUGE! Fruits and veggies are healthy, energizing, filling(!) and delicious. I find that I joyfully log and look at my points now! (Now, you can't go crazy, eating 10 pounds of grapes in one day, if you are going to loose weight. They assume you are going to be conscious of your portion sizes. )

I am a grazer naturally so being able to pick up an apple or eat a mango with the kids is amazing to me. Now I feel like I have "all these points" to eat and I don't even need them because I have my fruits and veggies! Hurray! (lol)

The other reason I like it is the CONTENT of the food is now weighted in the points, not just calories. So fat, fiber, carbs and protein are all weighted. It makes for a healthier diet over all, especially since I do not prefer pre-made foods or the like. :)

I am also happy because I just got a glider elliptical type exercise machine for only $30 dollars!. If you've ever seen the Tony Little Gazelle glider advertised then you know what I got. It is so much fun! It's easy but it does pack a punch.

So far, so good! I am loving progress forward without the hunger hardship!

Homeschool Confession

2011-02-27T21:34:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make... I am not content with my homeschool. There, I said it! I got it out! (whew!)

Honestly, these past 6 months have really been a trial on our family as a whole. The trip cross country, from California to Tennessee, having my husband stay behind to fulfill his commitments to his job, leaving 99% of our household and finally coordinating getting our belongings out here completely, has exhausted me mentally and physically.

Attempting to get settled, finding a Church, and adjusting to life here has had its own unique set of challenges as well. However, I don't want this to be a complaint session... truly I feel like the Lord lead us here and the challenges are just a part of the journey.

However, the discontentment is still there, eating at me. The biggest reason for discontent is the fact that 1) we left 99% of our curriculum behind and had to scramble to put something together here 2) the library system is so woeful in comparison to what we used to have in San Diego.

I do really love our math (Math-U-See), Handwriting (A Reason for Handwriting B), and Language Arts (Explode the Code, ClickN Kids online phonics). However, our science is severely lacking, as is our History/Social Studies. It's not lacking in CONTENT but rather, in hands-on, fun, interactive and memorable lessons like we did last year. It feels like we are in workbooks too much. The kids are retaining little in the science and history area and I am frustrated!

We don't really have the money to purchase yet another book or curriculum for this year, although I technically could buy something else. Plus, I am about 90% sure I am going to go with "My Father's World" curriculum for next year.

But here's my problem; I find myself constantly searching for something to help make the other subjects better, so I am constantly searching at the library and online. I am making unit studies for each subject and become a printing fool. But it all feels so disjointed. *I* feel disjointed.

So the questions I am struggling with is; should I buy the MFW 2nd grade curriculum NOW and begin using it even though the school year isn't over yet? Should I buy something else? Do something else? I honestly do not know! I would like to get back to being happy (both the kids and I ) with our homeschooling. Thus is my quandary.

Book Nook: "Couples Who Pray" review

2011-02-25T10:31:00.000-06:00

When I got "couples who pray" I was so excited! I really wanted to delve deeper into scripture and to grow and encourage my husband. However, the book is very light on content; dare I say, shallow?

I did find it interesting to share in anecdotal stories from celebrities but even their stories were oddly lacking depth. The authors took a lot of time show-casing the statistics of praying as a couple which I am not sure it really provided any further depth or encouragement.

However, the glaring omission on a book on prayer, was the overt lack of scriptural references. The authors offered the occasional quote but the vast majority of them were not from scripture. If you are writing a book on praying, shouldn't scripture take center stage? It IS possible to write engaging prose while quoting the Bible.

I was also disappointed to see that the vast majority of the book was "the 40 day prayer challenge." Don't get me wrong; the addition is nice, but it really is the book. The "book" portion of "Couples Who Pray" is almost like a short, shallow introduction.

Overall, it's not a bad book, the anecdotal stories are fund and the "40 day prayer challenge" included is a fantastic guide to set you and your spouse on your way to praying together. It's just a bit light on content.

New Zealand Rescue / Homeschool Bargin Crossover Event

2011-02-24T11:35:00.000-06:00

Currclick has created a bundle of homeschooling ebooks on their website that is too good to pass up!

It's an amazing crossover event; offering charitable donations to the New Zealand Red Cross and a great bargain to you, the homeschooling mom!

Below are all the details, quoted direct from Currclick!

A powerful earthquake struck New Zealand's already-bruised city of Christchurch on Tuesday, collapsing buildings, burying vehicles under debris and sending rescuers scrambling to help trapped people amid reports of multiple deaths. CurrClick and several publishers have teamed up to raise funds to aid those affected by this earthquake. We have a new bundle of great products available now. You can also donate directly with our $5 donation offer here.
You can find more information about the New Zealand Red Cross here.

Inspired Stumble Upon: Chore Chart Cards

2011-02-17T11:23:00.000-06:00

I just stumbled upon the cutest idea at Confessions of a Homeschooler! If you've spent anytime struggling with chores and kids, you have also probably headed off to the internet for ideas to help. Often that help comes with a price tag. I don't know about you, but that price-tag has impeeded any purchase or thereby progress on our part! LOL

Picture courtesy of Confessions of a Homeschooler

But today I found something cute, affordable and inspired! Confessions of a Homeschooler: Chore Chart Cards.

Its a system, printed directly at home with your printer. The graphics are FREE and so is the "how to". Ultimately, the only expense you may incur is that of the hanging or desktop pocket chart. Super easy and oh-so affordable!

Here is one example of her work. This one is for the younger kids, but she also has available a larger, more detailed chart.

She provides free downloads for the graphics, inspirations on how to make it work, and even links to where to buy the pocket charts! If you've been struggling with a way to make chores more manageable in your family, this may be the answer! Thank you Confessions of a Homeschooler for such a great idea!!

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T13:41:00.000-06:00

This year, Valentines Day is more difficult than most; is still hard at work in California, tying up obligations and commitments for a few more months yet. It is hard on all of us. I try to trust in the Lord and lean on His understanding rather than my own in times like these. It took a huge leap of faith to obey and move out here, I just have to be patient and know that He is God. :)

This morning, we got up and I presented each of my children with small boxes of chocolate. Zander, being the sensitive soul he is, was initially joyful but also upset because I didn't get anything. I began to explain to him the greatest gift is Love and having them, the love of the Lord and of their Dad was more than enough for me. This lead us into verses that share the Lord and His love.

So what did we do today? We decided to SHARE that Love with our neighbors. Zander got hard to work hand writing on his little kiddie Valentines day cards. Mason got the lollipops out and I printed out a sheet of Bible verses on Love.

We cut out the verses and attached them to the little valentines cards. Then placed a yummy organic lollipop on them with a pretty ribbon.

Then we were off! We went door-to-door to share the Love of the Lord on the day of Love. It was fun and kinda like trick or treating; only we were the ones giving away the goodies!

The only problem we ran into was that nearly nobody was home! So next time, we'll move something like this to around 5pm. hehee

Over all, it was a fun experience. The kids had a great time and got to testify in a easy fun way, and the neighbors (who were home) loved it.

Oh and I thought I would share with you the Valentine's Day Bible verses we used. It's a MS Word .doc. Enjoy and Happy Valentine's Day!

To my little man...

2011-02-10T21:08:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my youngest child's birthday; our baby boy. It boggles the mind that he just turned FOUR. Our BABY! Until I had children I could never understand this sentimental whiny enigma of children's birthdays. Why would you be sad about their growth? But as a mommy... I see the quandary.

Praise the Lord that my son, Mason, is well and thriving. I am so thankful to see him grow, both mentally and physically. I adore it when he goes though a mental growth spurt and suddenly spouts something amazing for his age. It is wonderful to see your children bloom.

But here is the enigma; we also are saddened with every year that passes. Having kids apparently makes you a sentimental ~~old fool~~ sap.(lol) I cannot seem to wrap my brain around the fact that its another year added since he was an infant. Another year since he needed me night and day, both for my love and care but also as nourishment. As each year passes, so grows their independence. Year after year they thrive, grown and move away from you. Eventually one day, I am going to wake up and my sons will be moving out, going to college, getting a job, getting married, having babies of their own! It stops the heart dead in its tracks to think about it.

Yet all of this is normal? Life truly is a roller coaster ride of epic proportions. For now, let me stop my random ramblings and say...

Happy 4th Birthday my sweet little Mason!

New Homeschooling Resources!

2011-02-09T12:36:00.000-06:00

As a homeschooling mommy, I am always on the lookout for new websites that offer innovative, affordable or free (free is better; free is my friend). I try to update here for some of my favorites to share with you all.

I have a few great places I have stumbled upon!

First of all, I found a great resource for used homeschool curriculum! The board is packed with some very affordable sellers, and the site itself has a ton of great helps for the homeschooling family. Visit their Homeschool talk and swap board. which has topics ranging from "Classical Homeschooling" all the way to "The Asylum" (need I say more LOL).

I have been a member here for some time, but I have never thought to share it! The Homeschooling Lounge is a message board filled with fellow homeschoolers! The resources and the communal feeling there is amazing. It is truly a place to escape for answers to our struggles and a place to share our triumphs as well!

Technology Oddity?

2011-02-02T11:50:00.000-06:00

House of Sloth: Technology Is Making Me Weird just posted a bit on the internet and how it has changed our lives. It was as if the author was ME writing about, well, ME! I too struggle with the phone. I LOATH the phone! I too used to be a phone love'n teen but over the years that has changed; perhaps it was the years and years of being the primary phone receptionist in my jobs? Or is it because there are just better options available?

The internet and texting has made my life significantly easier. Let's face it; when you are mom of young kids, talking on the phone take a whole new sets of skills! If your kids are anything like mine, the phone ringing is like an instant shot of of hyper-adrenaline. Suddenly kids who were once peacefully playing, pour in from everywhere, wired, demanding to talk, or singing or fighting, yelling, jumping, or a bit of all of the above!

So of course, you attempt to be happy to the caller; after-all, it's not their fault that the sound of a phone ringing drives my kids into a frenzy. I attempt to actually listen to what they have to say while struggling to get the kids off the ceiling, stop their fighting, getting a sippy cup, or silently address their sudden oppressive need for a snack. To be honest, if you call me on the phone, I am almost always only hearing 70% of what you say and then actually understanding roughly 40%.

With emails, text, or IM this phenomena does not occur. The kids could care less if you are chatting with me or if I am responding to your email. If they do need something, they usually actually need it, and I can pause a moment to tend to them. They don't "activate" into frothing, foaming monsters with endless energy when we chat on facebook. They don't even come out of their play area! (gasp!)

So yes, I loath the phone and avoid it whenever possible and turn to tech to socialize - can you really blame me? LOL

More FREE curriculum!!

2011-02-01T10:45:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to share with you that Gravitas Publications is coming out with a new Astronomy 1 addition to their Real Science 4 Kids science curriculum and they are offering a sneak peak for FREE!

As I have shared before, I LOVE Real Science for many reasons, one prime reason is that you can download directly online and you can pay by chapter, allowing a budget to be spread out over time and the ability to shift subjects per semester or delight driven desires!

Anyway, I get their newsletter and saw this opportunity and jumped on it! Immediately I thought that my blog would be a great place to share as well! Here are the details from my email..

Astronomy I is ready for print, and we just need the cover file. In the meantime you can still take a sneak preview. Take a peek here. Password: astronomyrocks

I assume this is a sneak peek with limited time and availability so I would hop over and check it out ASAP before they go to print. :)

Also cool (from their newsletter too)

Resource of the Month

Recorded live experiments for each experiment now in progress. Here's one you might enjoy.

Level 1 Chemistry Experiment 2

By the way, I do not receive anything from sharing my love of Real Science with you; no review copies, no freebies or the like (aside from what they share to the world). I just LOVE their books and I like to share! hehehe

Book Review: Love (fruit of the spirit) 6-week study

2011-01-31T11:49:00.000-06:00

Fruit of the Spirit: Love Cultivating Spirit-Given Character
By Calvin Miller
Published by Thomas Nelson

When I got this book, like most books (lol), I was really excited! "Love" is designed to be used as a six week study in the fruit of the spirit. I was really looking forward to cultivating personal growth with this book.

I struggle with yelling and getting frustrated too easily - I had hoped that the study would give deep biblical insights and suggested paths to growth for each area in the fruit. Instead I received a light, daily devotional style read. (I was able to read the whole study in short time).

In defense of the author, the study was intended to be used as a small groups resource. Perhaps he had intended the depth to be given though the interpersonal relationships rather than the personal journey with the book alone.

PROS:

very quick, daily devotionals to read though
thought provoking questions at the end of each day
an affordable resource for small groups

All in all, the study was just too light to be as thought provoking and in depth as I would have preferred.

I always review honestly even though I received this book as part of a blogger review network from Thomas Nelson.

FREE year with Mighty Book Jr. Curriculum!

2011-01-28T19:21:00.000-06:00

Get your free year with MightBooksJr.com today! We just did and are LOVING it!

Might Books Jr. offers interactive books that help bring the stories to life for the kids. PLUS they offer lesson plans, quizzes, books for ESL and Special Education, and so much more!

Be sure to choose a "household membership" option. Look at the top of the page after you make your selection and enter coupon code learntoread for a free year subscription; that's a $99.00 value!!! (and they do NOT require a credit card to do so!)

Sunday Services or maybe not... HELP!

2011-01-23T12:14:00.000-06:00

Went we left San Diego, we left behind an amazing Church. After years of looking, we finally found a home where Jesus was King! I love that Church and the people who reside inside it as well. The Pastor is passionate and teaching (un-politically correct), sound Bible doctrine. The music was joyful and my children had a place to go that taught them in a fun, uplifting manner that they actually retained! Imagine my dismay when the Lord began to convict our hearts to move cross country to Tennessee.

I had hoped that we would be able to find a new church; especially excited because we were moving into the Bible belt. "Surely," I thought "if there is anyplace to find a new Church, it would be there." I had faith and hope, in the trip, in the well being, in the decision from the blue to move to somewhere I had never even driven though. In all things, I have not been disappointed, except one.

The Church. I must say I was surprised to find that, while there are SO many Churches out here, they are all nearly cookie cutter versions of themselves, with only minor differences. *sigh*

We have tried out 5 or 6 Churches so far and asked about dozens of others. It is frustrating and heartbreaking that not a single one is the one we need. There are about 20 more Churches somewhat locally that we could try but honestly, I am growing tired of it. I grow weary of mustering the courage to go in somewhere new, to find our way to wherever we need to be, to meet wonderful people, and then find that it will, once again, not work for us.

So, what is it that leaves us without a Church home yet? Well, old fashioned services predominate out here; while that is good for some, it is not for us. Everyone sings hymns to a organ or piano, most with dry disinterest. They all sit still in sober quiet pews, reciting the occasional scripture or passage from the hymnals. The services are dry and chaste, the congregation's passion is nowhere to be found. The children do not have a place to be except with the parent; making the parent and the child miserable trying to keep quiet and in place. Some Churches have a lighter announcement session, some have a more passionate Pastor, some have better music, but we have yet to find a home.

One MAJOR Issue for me is the Children. My children are very young. In my opinion, it is not joyful, productive or good for them to have to sit quiet and still for over an hour, listening to the drull of prose they do not fully understand, and mostly have no attention span or interest in listening to in the first place. It is stressful and distracting to the parent. Every single church out here so far have NO children's ministry for services! NONE. NOT ONE.

Our Churches back home had children's ministry for all sessions; even super small churches. Larger congregations offered more but in all of them there was learning, and my children loved going to Church. Our services were alight with love. Love of the Lord and for each other. People openly praised the Lord out loud, the Pastor joked and talked with the congregation, His passion obvious. The congregation sang to a live stage performance of music ministry workers; singing songs of praise from modern sources as well as slightly updated, more musical versions of hymns. Services often lead me to tears from sheer joy sometimes, or humble realizations of my own failings in accordance to scripture. You always left feeling connected, learned, and passionate. I have yet to find a Church here that resembles this construct.

We did find ONE church that had close to what we are looking for; they were kind, their music was more passionate, the services were more modern. However, most of the service topics were not living. The fire was not there. Scripture has mostly been mild and they, again, had nowhere for the Children to learn and grow.

So what's a girl to do? I have turned to the internet. I wish that my old Church would broadcast its services but they don't yet offer that. I have found two amazing Churches. One is biblical sound, passionate, informative and they pull NO punches in Biblical doctrine. It's called The Abiding Place. The other one is here in Tennessee, but too far from us to actually attend. They are Long Hollow Baptist Church. I find that I look forward to logging onto Long Hollow every Sunday to tune in. Occasionally I will do the same for Abiding Place. In both Churches I download and listen to their past services or Bible studies during the week.

This works well for me. However, my children are still not getting their Sunday schooling. We do homeschool and weave the Bible in our everyday learning however we do not do a specific Bible course. Do you think my children are missing out? Do I need to offer Sunday School taught here at home? Would it even be remotely as fun and edifying as a Church Sunday school? Or are they being taught enough already? HELP! I need your advice!

Is anybody out there?

2011-01-19T15:09:00.000-06:00

I know that most people who visit a blog tend to visit, read and head off to the next wave on the web but I cannot help but wonder, is anybody out there?

I went on an extended hiatus while we started homeschooling and while we began to get ourselves moved across country. Did I loose most of you while I was away?

It doesn't really change how I blog or if I will continue blogging as I will keep at it anyway. I enjoy it. Perhaps my mind likes to think of visions of grandeur; hundreds if not thousands of your are hopping on to catch up with us. LOL

Yes! You all rush to your computers, perhaps once or twice a day just to see if the Sullivan family has updated their life adventures! ROFLOL. Yeah. Sure. hehehehe But then, I have always had a vivid imagination.

Well, to bring me back to reality, I am giving away my last book from my reviews! Just post here to show you are alive and I will draw a winner at the end of the month.

WIN ME!

What's He Really Thinking?
How to Be a Relational Genius with the Man in Your Life
By Paula Rinehart Published by Thomas Nelson

(PS: at this moment I probably have TWO readers. So you both have a 50/50 chance of winning!) hehe

Nothing fancy. No requirements. I will pick at random. I adored this book and I really, REALLY suggest all married women get some of the amazing insights this book has to offer (seriously). It has already made my marriage (and the way I view/love my husband) better! Honest. ;)

Life Musings...

2011-01-15T10:05:00.000-06:00

I was just reviewing my little piece of the web here today. I wanted to see the direction I wanted to go and what I needed to do more. I was actually surprised to see how many book reviews I have here LOL.

I want to share with you all that I will probably keep having book reviews. The major reason is simple; I love books. I love reading. I read as often as I get a chance, often reading in the car waiting on kids or in lines, just so I have time to read!

If I were to take off my reviews I feel like I would be taking a big part of me away. Books are a major part of my life and our homeschool. I thought I would start sharing more of my homeschool and kids books maybe. I also plan on giving away a lot more books that we are done with.

Once we get the rest of our stuff shipped out to us (eta March!) I will be doing more unit studies and fun activities as a part of our homeschooling. I hope to share those moments with you all much more. We've had our hands tied a bit due to the move, and lack of 99.9% of our belongings. We've mostly been working out of workbooks and the internet.

Part of that is a relief. We have been just getting school done most days so the days are much more open for free time. Getting together, planning and setting additional items to the homeschool takes a lot more time. In the long run, we are going to have to do more of these fun things or its going to get dull and more like a chore.

I do know I will be posting more pictures as we are FINALLY getting a new camera! I cannot wait for it to get here!

I guess I am rambling. Honestly, I am not perfectly sure where to take the blog. If you have any suggestions of what you'd like to see more of, please be sure to drop me a line! I have lots of freebies to give away, so I will be drawing winners from your posts or emails!

Can't wait to hear your thoughts! :)

Learning about the men that surround us

2011-01-11T13:21:00.000-06:00

I have been blessed with a wonderful husband. We have been together for 15 years now and counting! However, in all this time, we still struggle to "understand" each other.

Too many times we bicker over t trivial things that seem to tie into the very "manly way of thinking". I scarcely think that I am alone in that. Women and Men just don't seem to "get" each other much too often.

I have enjoyed books that have given me insight into the manly mind that I have enjoyed which have actually help our relationship. Given the insight into the male mind gives me a perspective I really need to understand him. I've enjoyed books like "the proper care and feeding of husbands" and "men are made from waffles and women are made of spaghetti". I was really excited however, when I saw a new book out from Thomas Nelson.

As a blogging member of the Thomas Nelson review, I was excited to see a book on this very topic. I picked it up and jumped right in! What I love the most is that they are offering a free preview into the book! So often I pick up a book that sounds like what I was looking for, only to find that it wasn't what I wanted at all!

Check out this latest book here. Hopefully it will bless you and your marriage just as much as it has mine!


Buy		Read

Back to Normal (?)

2010-12-29T12:05:00.001-06:00

I am finally back from my hiatus. We have been settling down and finding a life and rhythm here in the country town of Woodbury, Tennessee.

We moved from San Diego, CA, so there was a lot of things to get adjusted to. I realized that, although I really disliked a great deal about Southern California, I was also spoiled with many things. For one, we have had to get adjusted to driving here. A lot. of driving.

In San Diego, everything is within 20-30 minutes. EVERYTHING. Do you crave Mexican food? Drive around the corner and select your favorite from 12 different places. Want entertainment? Vast selections are a walk away. It is different in Woodbury. There are things to do and places to eat, just significantly less.

The people are different as well; friendly, open and conversational. I talk to strangers now. (hehe)

I adore the weather (we HAVE weather now). We have had snow and rain, sun and warmth, and wind and potential tornadoes. It gets cold. I love it but it has made us adjust. The yard has nothing in it so the kids tend to stay inside more often. THAT is a major difference from our old life.

We have found our rhythm in homeschooling and become informed and enrolled with the homeschool laws here as well. I am hoping now I will have enough time to get back, updating the free homeschooling resources page, and the blog as well!

All in all, I ADORE Woodbury and Tennessee in general. We are beyond blessed to get to live here!

Should we celebrate Halloween

2010-10-29T09:32:00.000-05:00

If you have been around a bit, you may already know my personal convictions on Halloween. I posted a lengthy post in that regard, which are more than welcome to revisit.

This morning I was reading my email devotions when I ran across one from Homeworld. It perfectly outlined some of my own convictions and I thought I would share it here for you...

What's Up With Halloween?
By Jim Liebelt

You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the evil powers of the world. So why do you keep on following rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle, don’t eat, don’t touch.” Such rules are mere human teaching about things that are gone as soon as we use them. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, humility and severe bodily discipline. But they have no effect when it comes to conquering a person’s evil thoughts and desires.

Colossians 2:20-23 (NLT)
At HomeWord, we receive questions from time to time about Halloween. Should parents allow their kids to “celebrate” or not? To avoid “giving the devil his due,” so to speak, some Christians change the name of their festivities from a “Halloween” party to a “Harvest Party.” (While pretty much everything looks exactly the same!) Churches throughout our country use Halloween as a means for outreach to the community. So what’s up with Halloween?

There is no doubt that Halloween's origins can be traced to pagan beliefs and rituals. Satanic groups have also attached meaning to Halloween, celebrating it as a special holiday. These origins and meanings can be researched pretty easily on the Internet. Christians of good conscience differ on their views of whether or not believers should have any participation in Halloween celebrations. Certainly, Christians should not participate in the "dark side" of Halloween – to in any way approve of the satanic or the focus on paganism, evil, death, etc.

Yet, the reality of Halloween participation for many, believers and unbelievers alike, is that of exercising a bit of fantasy, dressing up in costumes and having fun "trick or treating" around the neighborhood. To many, this is what Halloween is about, without any connection to occult or pagan practices. I have a hard time saying that there is anything wrong with this.

Let me give an illustration: We know the source and heritage of Christmas. We also know that for many people, Christmas is a very non-religious holiday. People give Christmas their own meaning, regardless of its origins. We would never say that everyone who celebrates Christmas is a follower of Christ or honors God. Halloween, I believe, is similar. People give Halloween their own meaning, regardless of its origins. Consequently, because people participate in Halloween, does not necessarily mean they are promoting or encouraging occult or pagan practices and beliefs.

Whatever conviction you hold about participating in Halloween, live it out for God’s glory! In all these things, a person should follow his or her own convictions, while understanding that Christians may differ in their beliefs about this issue. So, if you run into those fellow believers who differ from your stance on Halloween, give them freedom to live out their own convictions. The Apostle Paul said it this way, “Who are you to condemn God’s servants? They are responsible to the Lord, so let him tell them whether they are right or wrong. The Lord’s power will help them do as they should.” (Romans 14:4 NLT)

GOING DEEPER:
1. Responding to today’s culture can lead to two extremes: either isolating oneself entirely from the culture or immersing oneself totally in the culture without using any discernment. How can either of these extremes be destructive to God’s work your life?

2. What do you believe about participating in Halloween and why?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 8; 1 Corinthians 10:23-33; Colossians 2:6-23

Book Review: Rumble! Zap! Pow!: Mighty Stories of God

2010-10-26T18:16:00.000-05:00

Rumble! Zap! Pow!: Mighty Stories of God is a clever way to bring an engaging "comic book" style bible-study to kids. The book is colorful, engaging and just fun. In fact, when I received it, I wanted to review it before I turned it over to the kids but I ended up having to FIGHT the kids off of it!

The adventure, comic book style is perfect for my boys. I would often find them curled up in front of this book rather than watching cartoons! The whoosh, bang, boom is engaging to boys and the colors are bright and inviting. The book is a fun way to bring biblical concepts to young kids who may have not been interested otherwise.

Rumble! Zap! Pow!: Mighty Stories of God covers basic biblical topics such as "God made the world, God rescues, God is in Charge" and so on. It could be a fantastic means to us as a homeschooling Bible curriculum to the younger kids as the book has memory verses and a crafty activity at the end of each area.
The only potential cons I could see is not a true bible which some may mistake as such. It is a bit light on content but I could see this as just part one to a series of these type of books, each centered around additional biblical stories. It retails for only $12.99 but is often available for less at Amazon.com or B&N.com.

FYI: I have had the pleasure of being a blogging reviewer for Tyndale publishers for a while now and I love it! They offer free copies of various books to review - I take this seriously and only review honestly, regardless if the copies are free. :)

We are finally here!

2010-10-26T17:44:00.000-05:00

Our cross country journey has come to fruition (at least partly). It's been a struggle at best but I always felt the Lord with me.

This is the beginning of my journey. I was supposed to start packing the house at this point but could no longer put off the issues with the toilet. It was an old one that had calcification that just would not seem to clear out. So, instead of packing and purging I...

‎...is not so joyfully learning how to remove and install a brand new toilet system with just me, myself and I. UGH. Can I do it, yes I can! I did it! I did it!!! With a little prayer and a lot of patience I rocked that toilet!!!!(there's something I didn't think I'd ever say! LOL) EVIL ancient toilet - GONE!

Awesome, frugal BRAND NEW toilet - bought, installed and working BEAUTIFULLY!

(<---new toilet fully operational; purchased and installed by ME! hehe)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

That was the start of the delays. The journey grows harder... but not without the occassional victory and praises to the Lord....

<--- got sooo much done today! I feels wonderful!!! I've got more to do tomorrow but I'll take my moment to relish in today's victory. hehehe
24 September at 20:44

Diana Sullivan Thank you "Michael, Michael" (Mason's way of saying "uncle Michael")! We really appreciate your hard work today! :)
24 September at 22:44

Diana Sullivan ‎101 degrees?! seriously!!? Yuck! It looks like a lot of work will have to be done later tonight. *sigh*
25 September at 18:32

Its 107 on my patio! The weather is my enemy this weekend!! Its KILLING my productivity! Time is finite and I just cannot work in the heat. Praying for cool weather this week!!!!
26 September at 15:28

is HOT, tired and stressed out. Thank goodness for a nice soaking bath.
26 September at 23:51

Are you HOT!? It feels like this is our forecast for today. Refer Friday's forecast. Yeah, that me. NOW, try to pack and load your whole house, by yourself, in that heat.

Yes, I am cranky, No I am not happy. I'd rather load in the pouring rain or snow! :(

27 September at 13:58

just got stung by a bee. :( Sigh. It's not my day LOL
27 September at 19:14

Thank you Lord! Today is a bit humid, but so much cooler and overcast!!! My bee sting itches but isn't horribly intolerable and, although I woke up with a cold, I am happy to start THIS day! Praise your name Lord Jesus!
28 September at 12:47

too much to do! ack!
28 September at 18:15

what is going on lately!? Here we are on the precipice of taking a huge leap of faith in just a few days time. This week I've experienced so much!
-a oppressive heat wave seemingly out of the blue
-all KINDS of costs I did not budget for!
-stung by something
-woke up this morning feeling sick and I'm still sick.
...-got out of the shower only to find that sting has morphed into a huge festering swollen hot mess.
-NOW I am sitting, eating soup and just turned on the tv. !!!!! KA BOOM!!!!! The whole house shakes earthquake style! Lights flicker... the works!
No, it wasn't an earthquake.
28 September at 22:53

OH AND! It seems the giant branch from tree ALSO took out my neighbor's whole power grid and seemingly set their tv's to ash. Now I am surrounded by firefighters, nosy neighbors, and heartsick friends next door!!!
28 September at 22:55

Is feeling amazingly blessed that we did not get injured last night and that we have been spared from the electric issues my poor neighbor is suffering. They had zero electric and had to stay in a hotel last night!
29 September at 10:55

oh the perpetuity!

2010-09-24T15:50:00.001-05:00

This will be our first move in about seven years. I have long forgotten just how much stuff a small family accumulates! The packing, purging, and organization seems to stretch on into perpetuity!

I have just five days to finish this monolithic task and today has is out of the house getting the vehicles ready.

Our first stop today was for me to get the.neighbor to move her car so I could gain access to the gigantic 21+ foot flatbed trailer. Then came the learning curve. I have never hooked up a trailer, let alone a monstrous one lol.

Ugh just one call to eh, and we were off! This stop was to drop off the trailer to get two new tires installed. That turned into a longer and more expensive journey as the two back tires were not salvageable.:(

Then we headed to uncle Mike' s mechanic shop to have a sensor replaced. Now we are finally at jack in the box, cooling off after a very hot long walk from the shop. Lol.

Oh and another fun fact, I am blogging on my Droid phone. Technology is soooo cool. Heheh

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.0

our news!

2010-09-22T21:01:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen the previous posts, we have had huge change looming on the horizon! The journey to this point has been incredibly difficult on me. I never realized how much of a "control freak" I actually am!

It's been my season to learn to fully learn and trust in the Lord with all my heart. I've had to fully surrender all my fears and my unknowns. I have been in and out of such anxiety - I felt like I might go crazy! LOL

But the deadline looms. In just 8 days we will all be finalizing the packing of our entire life here in California and... moving to Tennessee!

Why is this a huge leap of faith your ask? Well, aside from said "control issues" LOL...

We are moving across country, to a state I have never even DRIVEN though, let alone visited.
We are moving away from decades of relationships, dear friends and neighbors to a place with only my husband's brother's family nearby (my family does live about 4 hours from there though)
The house we are moving to I have seen NOTHING of except the outside (via google maps none the less) (hubby's brother saw it and said "Its a standard rental property but it'll be fine for now". and nothing more! ahhh! )
The kids and I are moving out there alone for now. Just us, with a 21 foot trailer. Two young kids and me... an older durango.. and of course, the Lord.
We have yet to secure a new job out there. Interviews have happened but nothing in stone yet.

Oddly though, I mostly feel at peace about it all. I am stressed with the enormity of the moving and packing, but not with the move itself. It's crazy!! If not for the Lord Jesus, I know that this would not at all be possible. With tons of prayer and supplication... we are off! wheeeeeee LOL

new beginnings

2010-09-08T19:31:00.000-05:00

It's truly new beginnings here at the Sullivan home. We had our Back to (home) School party yesterday, and today, we started school officially. New beginning with school!

We did a very minor day today, to ease us back into the feel and swing. I hadn't wanted to take the full summer off, but the best of intentions.... (sigh) LOL. We are doing preschool and 1st grade this year. I am continuously amazed at how they pick things up. Sometimes it takes weeks and then a light goes on. (ding!) NOW he gets it. I wonder, is that the same way the Lord works with us too?

If so, I think I am personally going though a growth spurt. These changes on the horizon have me in a constant state of flux. First I am excited, then terrified, then determined, and prayerful. Despite my prayers, I have been feeling frustrated, doubtful and depressed. I keep second guessing if this is the Lord's will.

I am not sure if other out there feel the same way, but I often feel like I am fumbling around in the dark. On one hand, most of the signs point to going forward. We have been told that this is what we need to do, by many people, (many whom I wouldn't have ever thought would say it).

I've prayed about it and prayed that the Lord take the convictions from me if this is not His will. I do NOT want to take this adventure if it is NOT his absolute WILL. Well, now I am wondering, "Is it His will?".

Two major components of this adventure continually keep falling though. Is this the Lords will for us to do this blindly, just jump and trust in Him? We've already set this into motion and I am not at all sure.

Please lift us in your prayers! thank you.

Big changes on the horizon...

2010-09-05T00:02:00.000-05:00

We are going though some incredibly big changes here very soon. I cannot completely elaborate yet but, for us, this is HUGE!

Why so huge? Well for one, it's a LOT of work. Enormous really and I had completely forgotten how much work it is. It is an enormous leap of faith for us. We are trusting in the Lord with all of our hearts that this is His will. We've been praying about it for such a long time and it seems like this is the time. Of course, with that comes all that natural struggle and doubt. I feel like I've been praying endlessly lately (well on this subject anyway).

We are also starting our homeschool for Zander's second year and Mason's first year of pre-schooling. He's ready I think. That is another change for us.

No more charter school. Complete change in curriculum, and record keeping. This Tuesday we will start our homeschool year with a back to school party with some fellow Christian mommy's and kids, which neither of my boys know about. I am excited about that surprise! LOL

I wish I could elaborate further on the big changes but I will be able to share soon enough. Stay tuned. Your prayers are coveted for His will in our lives, His convictions, and provisions.

Thank you! :) Night...

Free Homeschool Curriculum

2010-08-31T20:19:00.000-05:00

I've updated my Free Homeschool Curriculum Resources page!!

I've stumbled upon a TON of free resources lately but just haven't had the time to get into the time it takes to update that page. Today I finally took the time!

I love using this page for my own link resources, which was why I started the page. I found that a lot of people love the resource too so I've been tucking away anything I run into... including a bunch of new upper level grades!

Check it out today and enjoy!

Book Nook Review: Cast of Characters by Max Lucado

2010-08-25T13:10:00.000-05:00

I received this title as a part of the blogger review network. I was excited about receiving a Lucado book but this one is a surprise.

This book is a much lighter read than his typical publications. The sentence structure is short and a bit simplified. However, I believe he was trying to make it this way for a reason. This book is about Characters. The cast of characters directly from the pages of scripture. He painted a picture of a real person, with real thoughts and struggles.

I enjoyed the book immensely. The easy reading allowed me to dive right in, even with the kids playing beside me. The characters were captivating, bringing them all that more to life. The simplistic way he writes allows you to become engaged by the story, (even when interrupted often) and the amazing transformation of having the Lord in their lives. Selected, transformed yet still uniquely human.

This is not a book on religious theology. If you are looking for Biblical reiteration, look elsewhere. However, if you want to immerse yourself in what it might have been like to live and struggle with life as a chosen child of the Lord, you won't be disappointed.

Book Nook: Review The boy who came back from heaven

2010-08-25T12:47:00.000-05:00

I received this book as a part of the blogger review network and I must say, it was an amazing read!

The story immediately reaches out and keeps your focus. I didn't want to put the book down!

The book takes you through a life transformed by tragedy and the amazing power of The Lord. It's raw, honest and you feel as if you were there along the struggles. I was amazed to see a perspective of true miracles but a bit disappointed that the book didn't really delve into what heaven was like. Overall, It's a touching, emotional experience that is sure to have you evaluate your current life situations and your faith in the Lord.

Ever have one of those days (years!)?

2010-08-24T16:38:00.000-05:00

As many of you have know, I have struggled with the ins and outs of running a home - making it perpetually organized and company ready. It's healthy but always cluttered to some level I do not like.

I prayed about it a lot, asking the Lord to guide me. I asked for wisdom and motivation, I asked for clarification, maybe some organization. As I grew more frustrated, I gave up, coming to the Lord I prayed " Help me Abba Father, I am broken. I cannot seem to be or do all that everyone else around me makes seem easy! I am laden with my own heavy ineptitude! Broken I come to you Lord, I life this burden to you and cry out for your help!". I began praying it more often, at every level of frustration, as I cleaned or organized. When I was tired and when I was busy.

What did the Lord just recently open my eyes to? I have discovered that I am not alone. A lot of momma's out there are having the exact same struggle I am having ever single day. MANY of us have the exact same struggles, frustrations and weak spots.

I found this picture under "housewife".
No wonder I struggle; I am not dressed ready
for a night on the town! I definitely do not
make my hair so perfect and where are MY
sparkles all around when *I* clean!
get this image at dreamstime.com

I was blessed by an edifying conversation with a friend. She begrudgingly admitted that she too struggled and felt exactly as I do. She even let me into her home. She was very concerned. After-all, it was NOT "company ready clean". It wasn't the latest in home fashion, not fabulously accessorized or perfectly painted. Instead I was thrilled to see her home - Lived in with children. Real. Cluttered. and HAPPY.

I have talked to so many during my struggles and I have come to a theory. Perhaps we are SUPPOSED to live our lives a bit cluttered? Perhaps this is just another layer of the "Gilded Living" we all project. We are NOT all perfect, everything is not always alright, we usually don't have it all together, and we do need help.

My home is my home. My children are learning, love is thriving, we are fed, cleaned and having fun together. So I jump into the kiddie pool and swim for a 1/2 hour instead of scrubbing my base-boards.

So we make all of the crafts suggested in the History curriculum... but you know what. I think that is the point the Lord is leading me to. Rejoice in your home - company ready or not.

Anne Rice's latest announcement

2010-08-06T11:57:00.000-05:00

I was a bit inflamed when I read Anne Rice's announcement that she was renouncing Christianity. Her statement on "our intolerance of gay's and feminism" was just too much for her to handle. It frustrated me, it inflamed me, and it saddened me all at the same time. Today, I ran across this article and I have to say, THIS is right on point! Thank you Russell Moore for showing my own heart how's and why's of this situation.

Anne Rice Hasn’t Betrayed You
Russell Moore
Dean of Theology, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Shared via Crosswalk.com (click here to see the article directly)

In recent days, the Internet has been abuzz with news that Anne Rice has renounced Christianity. The best-selling vampire novelist, who professed faith in Christ several years ago and has since written several books about Jesus and her conversion, publicly quit Christianity on her Facebook page. There's a real opportunity here that hinges on how we respond to this, or, rather, how we respond to her.

Anne said that she was leaving Christianity because she just couldn't be "anti-gay, anti-feminist" and so forth. The response was immediate, especially on Christian forums and comments on blogs and on various other forms of media.

Anne Rice is, at best, our sister-in-Christ who is going through a dark night of the soul. She is, at the very least, someone who has encountered something of the light of Christ, is drawn to it, and is now "kicking against the goads." In either case, she is not our enemy.

Anne's case is a little unique because she's a national celebrity. She has a Facebook page that people pay attention to. But she's really not all that different to the ex-prisoner, now following Christ, who told me not long ago that he's contemplating giving it all up and going back to cocaine and prostitutes. Of course he is. We are walking through a time of temptation and wilderness, in which there's a struggle in the air for every Christ-branded psyche.

But the church cannot see rejection of Christ as some kind of personal reproach or, worse yet, an ideological declaration of war. We have to love our prodigal sons and daughters so that if and when the dark night of the soul is over they have a place to come home to.

Anne says she still loves Jesus but she doesn't love Christianity. Yes, I know that it is impossible to love Jesus without loving his church. I've preached that for years, and I still believe it. But can't you see how someone could wrestle against that? I am thankful that I had been a Christian long enough to have gained some kind of maturity before I saw just how vicious "Christianity" can be.

I think it ought to instruct us here as to how Jesus handled situations like these. Jesus was fierce in his denunciation of those with power, including religious and ecclesial power. He never shied away from confronting personal sin in anyone, including the wounded and vulnerable, but he did in a completely different way. Think of the woman at the well, the woman caught in adultery, the demonized villagers, and on and on. Jesus never snuffs out that smoldering wick, never breaks that bruised reed. And it's because he loves.

Yes, Anne Rice has renounced Christianity. Maybe it's a permanent move away from the gospel, showing that she never quite made it all the way into communion with Christ. If so, let's represent Christ and continue to point her to the Jesus she finds in some way mystifying. It could be that Anne is a Christian who is having a wave of doubt and rejection. So did the Apostle Peter, who also renounced Christianity and, as a matter of fact, cursed Jesus personally in the process. But when Jesus finds Peter in Galilee (right back on the fishing boats where he'd been called from in the first place!), he never even mentions the incident at the fireside.

A lot of us (and I include myself in this) are a lot like James and John in the Christ-rejecting village. We want to call down fire from heaven on the opponents of Christianity (Lk. 9:51-54). That seems so prophetic and Christian and it also happens to confirm us to be right. Jesus' response to this zeal ought to stop us in our tracks: "Jesus turned and rebuked them. And they went on to another village" (Lk. 9:56).

Anne Rice hasn't rejected you. Anne Rice hasn't betrayed you. Would you pray for her, and for the other smoldering wicks and about-to-bolt potential prodigals in your church (and maybe in your home)? It could be Anne has been deeply hurt by what she has seen in Christianity. Or it could be that, like Jesus' disciples, the closer she's drawing to Christ, the more she is made uncomfortable by it. Let's love her.

Jesus' disciples, and Peter again, after all, were ready, it seems, to "quit Christianity" when on the Galilean lakeshore after he said some disturbing things. Jesus asked Peter, "Will you also go away?" But, at the end of it all, Peter had to confess, "To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (Jn. 6:66-67).

Maybe Anne Rice will conclude the same thing. In the meantime, let's not demonize the prodigal daughter. Let's give her room to come home, if and when she wants. Let's not verify her experience of angry, raging Christians.

Maybe it will take a vampire novelist to teach us that Light stings sometimes, when you're coming out of darkness.
Shared via Crosswalk.com (click here to see the article directly)

New Review!

2010-07-28T11:32:00.000-05:00

Want to see what we are using for Science this year? I have a full review just posted at The Curriculum Choice today!!

Swing on by and see my latest curriculum discovery!

How Many Hours Does Homeschooling Take?

2010-07-21T00:38:00.000-05:00

Often times when I am talking to mothers who are passively thinking about homeschooling, they often say "Oh, I don't know how I could do it all in one day!". Initially, I thought this was a mother's way of saying she just could not take on another task like this. BUT tonight it dawned on me.... MOST MOTHER'S DON'T REALIZE THAT a HOMESCHOOLING DAY takes up A FRACTION OF THE TIME AS THOSE IN SCHOOL!

Don't believe me? Check out this link. She does a fantastic way of outlining how it all works. For the most part, we do follow these guidelines. (Although, I just ran into this tonight, it was already what we were doing, and what felt right).

How Many Hours Does Homeschooling Take?

For those of you "on the fence", here is a great peak into how homeschooling works for many families, including my own. Oh, and yes, I do use a timer. Sometimes we shut it off and continue with a subject that is fun and the kids are enjoying, or sometimes not. That is the joy of homeschooling - pure, blissful flexibility. And yes, they DO learn!!! :)

Free Curriculum Resources

2010-07-14T09:46:00.000-05:00

This is a reminder for me to share this with my little ones - it's a perfect tie in to creation, which we are expanding upon this upcoming school year, and as a "about me" health tie in :) I thinks its super cute! hehehe

We made it past Kindergarten!!!

2010-07-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Well the school year is at an end and we made it!! We are officially past Kindergarten!!

This year was full of ups and downs, changing schedules, and changing curriculum. It was trying, it was frustrating, it was fun and adventurous. It was everything I thought it would be and more (both the good and the bad)!
Now we are gearing up for 1st grade and introducing Mason for his first year of pre-schooling. I pray I ~~won't loose my mind~~ er, um.... will be joyful and thankful for every milestone! Honestly, I love this time of year, I am a curriculum junkie, and I adore looking at all that is available to us.

Right now, here is what I have Zander's core:

Epi Kardia 1st grade
Math U See Alpha
Bob Jones Phonics & English
Bob Jones Science (as a followup & enhancement to the Epi Kardia lesson plans)
Story of the World (continuing passively from last year)

We will need to add an online element or two such as time4learning.com or the like. I also intend to do delight driven expansions of topics using lapbooks, unit studies, library books and lesson pathways.

Really, we have all we need right now to begin: a joyous thing as well as a bummer. Did I mention I LOVE curriculum?! LOL!!!

When I buy curriculum, I always search my resale outlets first (ebay, homeschool boards, etc). This year I paid LESS than $75.00 for the whole of our core! Part of that is because I had one curriculum that we are carrying though to this next year, and one part that I received as part of a reviewer. However, here is what I paid and what it is worth retail:

Epi Kardia 1st grade ~~($95.00 each semester or $200.00 for the whole year)~~ $0.00 (reviewer copy)
Math U See Alpha ~~($100.00 +shipping)~~ $50.00 total (ebay)
Bob Jones Phonics & English ~~($105.00)~~ $6.50 total (ebay)
Bob Jones Science (as a followup & enhancement to the Epi Kardia lessons) ~~$70.00~~ $6.50 (ebay)
Story of the World (continuing very passively from last year) ~~$66.00~~ $16.00 (already had one part)

I recommend doing your research and finding what it is you want. Put in order three or four choices for each subject. Then go on months before you need your curriculum to start. Passively place bids with your max - do not go higher. I find that ebay has highs and lows. If you keep looking, you are likely to eventually find what you are seeking for WAY below retail!

Joyous abandon in the Lord

2010-07-13T06:32:00.000-05:00

This morning I was sent an email with links to

Inspirational. Joyful. Hilarious. Provoking. Hopeful. It's all here at Godtube.com, the largest Christian video website. Watch Christian music videos, comedians, inspirational testimonies, and cute kids and animals. Godtube.com—inspiration online.

Connect, Grow, Encourage. Join Tangle.com, the largest Christian social network site, and discover what it means to be the body! We help unite the body of Christ by allowing you to connect with other Christians, grow in your relationships, and encourage your walk in faith.

I ventured onto Godtube for a bit and came across the video I attached. The song is moving and beautiful. I couldn't resist raising my hands to the Lord and singing along in Joyful adoration. But as I watched the video I was touch by something more. Kids were in attendance lifting hands and singing right alongside the adults!

This really moved me! In fact, emotional ol' me was brought to tears (happy tears!). It reminded me of why I homeschool and the Spirit moved within me. HERE on this video, right before my eyes was the embodiment of all of my dreams. One day, to see my children saved, baptized of course, but to see my children's hearts recklessly abandoning their lives, love and worship to the Lord!

Thank you Lord for refocusing my heart today. Sometimes the sameness of life, especially with my own ineptitudes, I completely loose focus. I joyously see how important those sweet little boys are to me and I will act accordingly. ~amen

I was just so happy we headed off to do errands and to (surprise) the boys by going to Wal-Mart and getting them a swimming pool! Here we are, two Targets and one Wal-mart later... we have blown up the pool and we are all excitedly waiting to jump right in!!

Epiphany!

2010-07-12T13:30:00.000-05:00

I titled this post "Epiphanies" for a reason. Often times I pray to the Lord for guidance and wisdom. For me, the most precious gifts of grace in that gift of wisdom is His gift of Epiphany.

Wikipedia defines it as "An epiphany is the sudden realization or comprehension of the (larger) essence or meaning of something....sense to signify that the claimant has "found the last piece of the puzzle and now sees the whole picture," or has new information or experience, often insignificant by itself, that illuminates...the... deeper...meaning."
For me, this is the ultimate gift of Grace. Wisdom bestows upon me - wisdom without the pain of the refiners fire. I am thankful that the Lord has given me numerous epiphanies over the years and today was yet another.

First and foremost, it dawned upon me that this is MY blog. I have been treating it as a professional, helpful resource more than a personal testimony for my life. I adore reading blogs that show REAL moms, with real struggles, failures and growth. I didn't want to put myself out there and be so raw and open. But then, what is the point of blogging? If I am not willing to truly share the Lord in my life though my own brokenness, then why blog at all?

So, thankful to the gift of this revelation, I will be obediently sharing my heart here from now on. Watch out... keep your hands and arms inside the cart all all times while the vehicle is in motion.... (breath) here we go...

Adventures in Odyssey Review!

2010-06-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

This was our first time having exposure to Adventures in Odyssey! I have always been drawn to the idea but really wasn't sure if the audio without video would appeal to my young boys (5 and 3). I jumped at the chance to get a copy of "Take it from the Top" from the publishers for review!

I must say, AIO did NOT disappoint! From the start my boys were engaged, laughing and enjoying the journey. My 5 year old especially LOVE the mystery story adventure of the missing game system. This review has made us a believer! We will be back to buy more - especially with road trips in our future!!

Why Christians Fail to Value Babies

2010-06-10T13:59:00.000-05:00

Why Christians Fail to Value Babies

Birthrates Implode in Christian Churches Too While the American birth rate dips under the 2.05 replacement level (only salvaged by immigrants who average 2.6), another 90 nations around the world are experiencing their own birth implosions. After 120 million dead babies in this country, thanks to abortion and the abortifacient birth control pill and birth implosions among many demographics (not to exclude evangelical Christians), it's about time to re-assess our values and ethics using biblical definitions.

A demographic winter is blowing in, so this may be the perfect time to take a look at our perspectives and attitudes towards children, babies, population growth, adoption, birth control, artificial insemination, surrogacy, and other important and related issues. Kevin Swanson interviews Douglas Phillips, president of Vision Forum, sponsor of an important conference scheduled for July of 2010.

Visit Generations with Vision to hear more.

Review - Combating The Commandant of Confusion: A Bibleman adventure

2010-05-17T22:10:00.000-05:00

When we first received the dvd I was a bit discouraged... it seemed so cheesy. The dvd is a life action and executed in a very amateurish manner. HOWEVER... the message behind the adventure is just awesome~! They use the Word as their shield and sword. My boys LOVE this and have really absorbed the biblical messages and their life applications. I only WISH it were animated - it would easily be a 5 star rating. I received this dvd as part of the blogger reviewer network and am providing my honest, open opinion.

new homeschool freebie resources

2010-04-05T12:29:00.000-05:00

Here are a few new free homeschooling resources I have come across through homeschool emails, friends and just surfing...

Resources for teaching math http://illuminations.nctm.org/

Head of the Class (curriculum driven learning for grades Preschool - Eight) http://www.theheadoftheclass.com

Hive of Busy Bee's (free book with cute stories for character lessons) Busy Bee's

Science is FUN (home experiments) http://www.scifun.org/HomeExpts/HOMEEXPTS.HTML

Homeschool Launch (lesson sharing site) http://www.hslaunch.com/mypage/

TVO Kids (videos, games for science and more) TVO Kids

I will eventually add these links to the resource page as well but coding that takes time, which I currently do not have a lot of right now. LOL

20 great reasons to homeschool

2010-03-30T19:56:00.000-05:00

I saw this today and it was just so cute and true! I had to post it! LOL

Resurrection Day cookies!

2010-03-25T23:34:00.000-05:00

I got this from the Metzgers's blog, who got it from the Above Rubies Yahoo Group! But these are great ideas and I had to share them!!! LOL

Resurrection Day Cookies
To be made the evening before Resurrection Sunday...

1cup whole pecans
1tsp vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch salt
1 cup sugar
zipper baggie
wooden spoon
tape
Bible

Preheat oven to 300 degrees (this is important, don't wait till you're half done
with the recipe!)

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon
to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was
Beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1tsp vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain
that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read
John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His
life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the
rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus'
followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar.

Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves
us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are
formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of
those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet.
Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.
Read Matthew 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give
each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was
sealed. Read Matthew 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven
overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read
John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked
surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus'
followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matthew 28:1-9.

Homeschool Review: Epi Kardia

2010-03-21T22:21:00.000-05:00

I had my eye on the Epi Kardia curriculum the moment I had heard of it. I was caught immediately by their name alone as it conveyed exactly the type of homeschooling theology in our home! Imagine my delight when I was offered a 1st grade set to review! We couldn't wait for it to arrive!

Epi Kardia is a "historically structured, literature-based curriculum using Charlotte Mason methods" available for grades Kindergarten through High School. So why Epi Kardia as the curriculum name?...

(from their website) "The Greek words "Epi Kardia" mean at the heart. At Epi Kardia, we feel the heart of home education is the Christ-centered mentoring and discipling relationship between parents and their children."

This completely embodies our goals for our homeschool so I just had to try it out.

The day the box came in we were so excited! I had to rip that box open and dig right in!

(Epi Kardia right as we ripped in the box) (Zander is happily showing off a peanut stuck to his nose)

My kids were so excited and I was even more pleased with the packaging: eco-friendly packing peanuts! I joyfully packaged those up for crafts at a later date! (As frugal homeschooling mom, I never miss a moment to reuse and recycle!)

I enjoy the way that the curriculum is broken down into three books so they were not cumbersome to use and their packaging was really pretty! (LOL)

I received the Epi Kardia 1st grade "Lesson Plans" set. This choice is laid out in a daily lesson plan format that outlines each subject for each day, including hands-on ideas, lapbooking suggestions, arts, crafts and more; so you can really just jump in and go!

Epi Kardia offers two different types of curriculum:

1. Complete Programs -- their most cost-effective option, Complete Programs can be used for three years each following our methodology. Using unit overviews, history, science and music/fine arts booklists divided by topic, along with the suggested projects and activities, you write your own lesson plans.

2. Daily Lesson Plans -- Love homeschooling (or want to homeschool) but you know you are not a planner, organized or you have a hard time following through? The Daily Lesson Plans are already-planned-in-advance and are written for specific grade levels. They include weekly goals and objectives for each subject and daily lessons planned integrating the studies of history, science (K-8), language arts and projects.

Features of Epi Kardia Curriculum

Based on Charlotte Mason methodologies include reading whole, living books, short lessons, oral narration, using copy work and dictation to teach grammar and composition, and more!
All books listed in the curriculum have been read and evaluated from an evangelical Christian worldview by at least one of the authors
Integrates the subjects of history, science, language arts (including reading, grammar, composition, phonics, poetry, literature studies, spelling) and fine arts
Activities, books and projects recommended for each learning style
Provided in their complete program, components are historical overviews of each time period for teachers/older students, as well as a customizable CD with teaching tools and helpful forms
The 100+ page teacher's manuals include abundant information about teaching covered subjects and as well as curriculum related material
The 6th - 12th grade manual includes an extensive section regarding teaching high school writing.

Epi Kardia is a living book based curriculum, so books are an integral part of it. In each set there is an outline of books that will be used for that quarter. Although the books are not offered as part of the curriculum purchase, I have found that most are easily found online for free, at your local library, or available used online. (They even offer the books via links to amazon on their website, to save you time and energy).

Being the frugal family that we are, I've elected to procure the books from our local library and online at the free books sites (as listed in my listing of free curriculum). So far, the books have been fun and fairly easy to get. We love going to the library!

One note however, our library here is very small so I need to request the books from other libraries in our circuit. If this is the case with your location, I very strongly recommend that you jump ahead in the lesson plans to see what books are coming up.

I read ahead a couple of weeks and log-on to my library request database. That way I don't have to stress if a book is out and I am placed on a waiting list. Most of my books came in before the two or three week time-line, and I found nearly all of them. Those we couldn't source online or at the library, I skipped or replaced with others.

I look forward to finding new books that we may have never been exposed to! Like others in living book style curricula, I fully expect to find some books my kids will adore so much they won't want to return them. I have planned for that with a small budget for used books on Amazon. A lot of the books listed are currently available for $.01, so the expenditures won't be too expensive either.

In my humble opinion, Epi Kardia compares nicely with other, more known curriculum such as Sonlight, My Father's World, or Tapestry of Grace. Of course, each of these curriculum offer their own perspective, features and lesson plans, which makes each one unique and tailored to each families personal needs. However, I think the Sullivan family has joyfully found our core curricula of choice!

Prices for the curriculum varies according to your curriculum style choice and media. You can elect to buy the spiral bound books (like pictured above) or a CD. Prices start at $75.00 for a full curriculum book or, you can choose to try their lesson plans, you may purchase the first unit (The Ancients--six weeks of plans) for only $25. Epi Kardia is so sure you are going to love them, they even offer a full credit if you choose to buy the full set after purchasing the trial.

Mommy Musings

2010-03-08T11:21:00.000-06:00

I am so excited! I am fairly sure this is my final rendition for the blog. Finally LOL

We are plugging along with homeschooling and just loving it! This year we decided to go with a local charter as our homeschooling partner. While that hasn't been a poor experience, I am leaning toward doing it without them. We are so well connected with our Christian homeschooling co-op that we don't need the charter's field trips and our co-op is just started a co-op class day, so both boys get to participate, which I love!!

So... I am just reviewing and lifting it in prayer. We'll see where the Lord leads us!

New Review

2010-03-05T09:12:00.000-06:00

When I initially chose this I was really excited! I wanted something that could give me more time in the Word while exposing the message easily to the rest of the family. I was not disappointed!!!

Upon opening, I was really impressed with the packaging. The set comes with an outer sleeve and a beautifully matching CD zippered case. It has lasted a homeschooling family's journey in the car wonderfully: and that is saying something with two young boys under 6!

The CD's are a just a joy! The performances are not overdone, campy or over enhanced. The words are concise and easy to follow without straining to hear or understand. The actors do justice to the word with just one slight exception. Jim Caviezel (Jesus) often recites passages with almost a flat, monotonous manner. Often his lengthy passages grow flat or choppy - taking some of the joy out of the word or give your mind a chance to wander. However, that is not the whole time. There are a lot of passages that are moving and engrossing by his performance.

I have loved this compilation so much! I turn it on when we have errands that take up a great deal of our day. Being in the word this way really makes the Word of God come alive. Even my children listen! We often will rewind to discuss passages performed or to understand it further. I have been so surprised how our biblical adventure has grown and thrived by this delightful performance! HUGELY recommended!

I received this joyfully as a blogging reviewer but have not been paid to review. My opinions are my own, without reservation. ;)

Book Nook: Review

2010-03-03T20:12:00.000-06:00

I have just recently had the joy of joining Tyndale House publishers are a blogging reviewer. I feel so blessed to be offered with some amazing books just for my opinions (and it's my true opinions they will get LOL)

I just joyfully received Devotions for Lent from the Mosaic Holy Bible and I have to share! First of all, they sent me TEN copies!! So that means... GIVE AWAY!

Anyway, back to the book LOL...

I really loved the book concept; it's compact and great to take with you. However, that is also what I don't love about it. The books it almost too small to read easily: the print is very tiny.

Putting the print size aside, the content is really great. Even though we are already in the midst of the Lent season, it is a great devotional for anytime self reflection. I just jumped in from the day I got it.

When you first open the book you are greeted with a "how to" section that quickly moves into the individual day devotion. The devotions center around a theme (for instance; Identifying Discontent) and works to weave that theme into each day of that week in an effort to draw your life closer in parallel to the Lord.

This devotional provides a personal thought for the day along with suggested biblical reading, as most devotionals do. However, what makes it unique is that the book actually has the weekly suggested reading in the back of the book (NIV) so there is no need to take a bible with you.

In addition, "Devotions for Lent" also provides historical quotations and a meditation section from outside authors, which adds additional insights that work into that days theme. Most days even offer a line area to put your own thoughts, reflections, meditations or prayers. The book is designed to be used in many different applications and it delivers

"Devotions for Lent" is a compact, affordable book that is convenient, well thought out, and insightful. Pick yourself up a copy today, or WIN ONE HERE! Just enter a comment below!

Free Curriculum Resources

2010-03-01T11:54:00.000-06:00

I ran into some fantastic news this morning! While updating my status on facebook (Important things to do, I know! LOL) I found out that....

Lesson Pathways has gone 100% FREE!!! For those of you who used this before, but could not afford it when it went to a pay site, this is your chance to return!

If you haven't used Lesson Pathways before, you are in for a treat! The site offers a curriculum that you can assign, to provide your own lesson plans! It is a internet linked database just packed full of information! I love to use this to enrich our current curriculum, to add onto an area that the kids are struggling with and need more time in, or to create fantastic new unit studies and/or lapbooks!

Check them out today at http://www.lessonpathways.com

Fabulous Freebie!

2010-02-21T18:27:00.000-06:00

I just heard that Zondervan is offering the first 5000 moms who respond a free copy of their Busy Mom's Bible. Find out more about the Busy Mom's Bible (NIV) and how to see if you can get one free too here.

I just signed up for it and can't wait! Good luck to you all!

Curriculum Review

2010-02-20T14:14:00.000-06:00

I have published another curriculum review at the Curriculum Choice!

Here is a sneak peek!

Reading A-Z.com
by Diana

We started our official reading adventure this year with reading a-z.com! Right off the bat, I loved the full scope of curriculum the website offers: the website is comprehensive to say the least! No matter where you are starting out, just about anybody who needs an elementary language arts addition to their schooling can benefit from reading a-z.com.

There is a very small learning curve to the site so it is easy to just “jump right in” where you need to be. Pick and choose your own curriculum from their ample selection or take an assessment test that is included to see where you need to begin for each child. Enjoy leveled readers, alphabet materials or jump into phonics and phonemic awareness materials. Each area offers a full, comprehensive lesson path in that subject matter.

I am so excited!

2010-02-18T11:27:00.000-06:00

I have just been accepted as a reviewing member of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine! I will be reviewing for the younger ages and have already been given two assignments!

I am beyond honored and excited too! Stop by to see what fabulous new reviews I'll be adding!

Mommy Musings

2010-02-15T20:06:00.000-06:00

I (obviously) am still working on the blog. I just haven't found a layout yet that works for what I want to convey without it getting messy.

Thanks for riding with me though this curve! ;)

My first give-away!

2010-02-08T00:07:00.000-06:00

I am so excited about my first give-away! I have been a member of buzzagent.com for years now and just love it!

As a buzz agent, you get invited to campaigns for products. If your demographics meet the campaigns needs, you get shipped that product to try absolutely free! They only ask that you "buzz" about the product to friends, family, neighbors, and then submit a report and a survey at the end! You don't get your name sold to a zillion lists or endless product junkmail. It is a fantastic, free and fun! Check it out!

Anyway, This last campaign was with L'Oreal Paris: Lash boosting starter kit. I loved it so much that I am giving a full kit away!!!

When I signed up for this campaign, I have to admit I was intrigued!

Here's L'Oreal's buzz about the product:

Give L'Oréal Paris^® 4 weeks, and you'll see more lashes!*
Want visibly thicker, fuller bare lashes that look multiplied?
Experience the revolutionary power of L'Oréal Paris' Lash Boosting Technology in a new concentrated serum and two-step mascara.

For Day and Night: L'Oréal Paris^® Concentrated Lash Boosting Serum
Apply this serum in the morning underneath your mascara and on bare lashes at night. Lashes will appear thicker and multiplied in just 4 weeks with less lash fall-out when removing make-up.

For Day: L'Oréal^® Paris Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara
With a serum-enriched Lash Boosting Primer on one end and an ultra-lengthening mascara topcoat on the other, this Lash Boosting duo builds longer, thicker, fuller lashes day after day. Apply the Lash Boosting Primer first to prep lashes and boost their condition, then apply the Ultra-Lengthening Mascara topcoat for 80% longer lashes instantly.

I was skeptical at first since mascara is always promoted as "building longer, thicker, fuller lashes". However, I was very pleasantly surprised! The primer goes on smooth and instantly boots your lashes (and I mean BOOST!) It looks almost as if there are tiny particles in the primer that build, boost and just, wow! The primer also feels good and doesn't irritate the eyes (I have very sensitive eyes).

On the other end of the mascara is the ultra-lengthening topcoat. It takes and fully coats the lashes (the primer goes on a bit white). It separates the lashes a bit and makes those lashes look amazing. I didn't experience flaking or smudging even though I have allergies and almost always seem to be rubbing my eyes.

I will be buying this again and again!

The concentrated "lash boosting serum" is amazing. It feels so good on your eyes and rubs in completely. I do show a reduced loss of eyelashes. I haven't yet seen a huge growth of eye lashes as of yet, but it goes on great and has made a difference. The only con for me is that I don't care for the applicator too much. For uncoordinated gals like me, it's too easy to poke yourself in the eye (embarrassed lol): especially with the little ones running in and out of the bathroom (and into mom!)

Anyway, I loved this so much I HAD to share it! I have to get it out there! LOL So ladies... I am giving away a FULL 24-hour Lash Boosting System! Simply enter a nice comment below and I will put your name in a random number generator to draw the winner! I hope you all love it as much as I do!

(No, I didn't get paid to say this. I did get to try my sample free but I am open to buzzing my REAL feelings! This is really how I feel!!)

Fast & Frugal Moment Monday

2010-02-01T10:17:00.000-06:00

I am always looking out for a bargain or a way to do something faster and easier! This afternoon we were in the supermarket when my son came up to me asking for a lunchable. I looked at it long and hard, and then resoundingly said "no". Sure, they are convenient and fast, but, at $1.50+ each, they are NOT budget friendly.
But that got my mind going...

I have two super snackers in my house. They graze constantly especially when they are in a growth spurt. So the idea sprung; "what about making my own?"

So I set about the chore. I bought a single package of bologna (.98 cents), a 12 pack of string cheese ($3.50 on sale), and two smaller bags of goldfish crackers ($1.00 each) and a box of store brand small snack bags ($1.98). Total: $8.46 (plus tax)

I got it all home and got out the bologna. I stripped the paper from the outside and then cut the whole package into 4 little triangles. I pulled out the string cheese and cut the cheeses in half and separated them at their serrated edges.

I pulled out the goldfish crackers, a large tablespoon, and the snack sized baggies. Into each bag went 3 triangle slices of bologna and 1/2 of a string cheese. I then placed them in the baggie and got out another. In it I placed approximately 3 tablespoons of goldfish crackers (I separated them so the crackers wouldn't get soggy) and then put it all together, zipped locked it shut (as I squeezed the air out of them) and started the process over again.

Ta-da! Little snack packs - tailor made to be easy, quick and affordable!

My kids also love dill pickles so I decided to do that as a snack baggie too. In that I placed another 1/2 piece of string cheese, and 2 small dill pickles. The kids were delighted!!!

The dill pickles were $1.98 so all in all, I paid $10.44 spent in money, and about 7 minutes of my time.

The whole thing made 31 mini snack baggies, plus some left over cheese and crackers. Break that down... it cost me $.34 cents (!) to make our own lunchables!!!

Of course, you could customize this up or down... using turkey or ham... adding a mini treat or candy bar, using trail mix... the sky is really the limit!

Quick, fun, and oh so easy!!

Homeschool Review

2010-01-28T21:48:00.000-06:00

The Well Planned Day

The Well Planned Day is this homeschooling mother’s dream! I have searched high and low for a complete, comprehensive planner that offered both homeschooling and household planning in once space, without a zillion separate forms. I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the Well Planned Day.

I am thrilled to have been asked to be a reviewer for the curriculum choice! visit here to read my full review there!

Fast & Frugal Moment

2010-01-22T21:55:00.000-06:00

I stopped buying "brand specific" breakfast cereals unless they were on sale and I had a coupon. This works for us as a special treat but it is not our primary way we buy cereal.

We switched to the bulk cereals from brands like Malt-o-Meal because they are all nearly just as yummy, offer the same health benefits (or lack there of, depending your point of view ) and they are a huge bargain per ounce vs the other brands. However, that frugal moment just hasn't been enough to curtail the onslaught of the nearly bottomless tummies of my growing boys!

I wanted to make us an inexpensive breakfast that would be easy to make, preserve and something the boys would actually EAT! (They loath oatmeal [sigh]).

I found a fantastic recipe on allrecipes.com

Fast and Easy Pancakes

Ingredients

2 cups milk
3/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder

Directions

Place milk, sugar, eggs, oil and vanilla in the blender. Add flour and baking powder. Blend until smooth.(I just added dry ingredients first, then wet, and beat with a whisk)
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sidesand serve hot.

So I set about to make a batch that is cheaper than Bisquick, and easy to do in a pinch, that I could easily control to make healthier. (I intend on using whole wheat flour with a sprinkle of wheat germ and stevia and/or agave syrup as a lower glycemic index, healthier and lower cal recipe.)

But, to try out the recipe, I used it "as is". I used the Pampered Chef medium stainless steel scoop and it delivered perfect sized pancakes!

Here they are on the griddle...

I took the pancakes off the griddle and allowed them to cool a bit and then set them on wax paper layers to further cool.

After they cooled, I layered the sheet into a freezer baggie and popped it in the freezer!

Now my endless eaters can have a quick (and extremely inexpensive!) breakfast! It just needs to be popped into the toaster and ta-da!!! Now you can do a dance, rock it old school style and proclaim to the masses you're a frugal efficient mastermind!!

I'm a writer for the Curriculum Choice!

2010-01-15T22:33:00.000-06:00

I am thrilled that I've been blessed to be invited to be a new author for the curriculum choice! My first official review will be published here in just a few days, but I was too excited to wait! LOL

Here is my first curriculum review!

Weaver Interlock

Weaver Interlock is a hands-on curriculum for preschoolers and kindergartners made by Alpha-Omega. It offers a flexible, fully outlined lesson plan that covers Creation through the Flood. The program integrates Bible with additional subjects such as science, math, language arts, and social studies.

We started using Interlock Weaver as our first curriculum for my oldest as his preschool curriculum. We continue to use it as a unit study, bible add-on, and intend to use it for my younger boy as well.

Right off the bat, I loved how well planned the curriculum is and how easy it was to follow. Each day is laid out with your bible theme which then “weaves” that theme into multiple subjects. They even include reading suggestions as well as craft projects that use primarily household items.

The program includes a tab in the big binder that is filled with reproducible worksheets and projects, which the kids loved! I loved it too because it saved me so much time not having to separately source printable or crafts for each topic on the internet. The program also comes with a music tape and an introduction to phonics.

If you choose to use Weaver for both preschool and kindergarten, I do suggest you order their full phonics or outside program as the phonics included is really just an introduction. (We didn’t delve too deeply into the phonics introduction because my son was already well versed in the phonetic sounds of the alphabet.)

I found this program a joy and it continues to be a fantastic resource for us. The curriculum runs for $99.00 and is available at http://www.aophomeschooling.com.

Book Nook: Review

2010-01-12T12:29:00.000-06:00

A delightful treasury of 250 most remembered stories from the Bible. Truly a wonderful add-on to the family bookshelf! This is not a bible but, rather, a biblical story archive taken directly from the NKJV text.

This is a fantastic way to add the glory of the word as a family or individual devotional. The book is bound in hardcover that is reminiscent of a well worn, much loved, leather bound book of antiquity. I strongly suggest this book join your home library, or as a wonderful gift for the Christmas season... it is a delight~!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T19:27:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year all!

We have been going though the Holiday shuffle, trying to get it all done, and barely doing so. LOL I've been rather MIA here lately and just wanted to touch base.

We've gotten a bunch of new add-ons to our curricula and a few books that we are going to dive into. So look forward to a few new reviews!

Today was the returning from Christmas break and man, what a day it has been! (whew!) It was so hard to get back into the swing of things. Both boys were beyond difficult! I need a break already hehehe. Now I see why schools ease back into school the first few days or so! Wow!! LOL

I also have some fantastic new links and recipes to review! See y'all soon!

Kindergarten Teaching Requirements for California

2009-11-30T20:43:00.000-06:00

I decided to search out and compile a list of recommended teaching requirements for Kindergarten in the state of California. I wanted to ensure that what I am teaching will fall into the realm that most of the K-graders are learning, even though we are still using the state certified charter school.

Mostly, I wanted to see if my time-line for the courses I am teaching meet with what he'll need to know with first grade. Yes, we will likely be teaching first grade as well, but I want to make sure we are "on track" as it were.

I spent all this time searching though California's educational content standards website, searching for K grade related subjects, and cutting and pasting into my own standards document. Low and behold, JUST after I did all that work, I found that my search engine had actually found a site that already did all the work for me! (doh!)

Ah well, now I can share it with you all without having to download it LOL! Here ya go!

Fabulous Freebie!

2009-11-29T23:50:00.000-06:00

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine is giving away a delightful Christmas e-book for free!

It is jam packed full of some great recipes, ideas, printables, and so much more. Thank you again Old Schoolhouse Magazine!

Click the picture to get your own!

Feeling the Christmas Spirit

2009-11-23T14:07:00.000-06:00

Ah I am so thankful today!

We are going to have Thanksgiving this week, the weather is chilly and not too warm during most days, and I am fully getting into the Christmas spirit!

In that spirit, I decided to change my blog setup to be more Christmasy. Unfortunately, there really isn't a lot of options out there. I really wanted something that reflected the colors of the season, as well as the glory of Christ. I went with this design for something interim but I am not sure if it will be the final choice! LOL I am so indecisive!

Beautiful Christmas Blend

2009-11-23T12:13:00.000-06:00

I saw this on another blog and I had to post it here. It is so beautiful and soothing. I have always been an avid music lover. This is "Canon Christmas" a blend of one of my most favorite songs. I love canon so much that I used it as my wedding march!

Book Nook: Current Review... The Noticer

2009-11-18T11:51:00.000-06:00

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

I had the pure DELIGHT of reading this book just recently. Honestly, I was initially not that interested with the title or the packaging however, this is truly a book you cannot judge by its cover!

From the moment I started to read I was hooked! The story is an intermingled perspective around the an old man who weaves his influence in and out of people's lives; arriving at exactly the right time to help lead themselves and give them the proper perspective. Honestly, I cannot give it a proper description to convey how joyous this book is!

It'll grab you from the start and you will want to stay on the journey for as long as possible. The advice and perspective given during the journey is also solid and helpful. Get two for the price of one; a personal story that is rich and interesting and self help ideas... all in one! (hehehe) Very much recommended!

Frugal Bulletin Boards

2009-10-29T23:30:00.000-05:00

When we started homeschooling I excitedly went out looking for white board or chalk board or a bulletin board. However, when I got into the marketplace I was shocked at the prices of these!

We have a playroom / school room where we spend a lot of our time and I really wanted some areas of focus for our studies as well as a place to have fun seasonal art work or themes. Not to be daunted, I started looking at affordable alternatives. Well, at the educational supply store, I found the alternative!

Take yourself a blank wall like above. Then get yourself TWO LARGE science project cardboard units, like I have pictured. It folds on two sides and a bit tricky but it's worth it!

Now, I am no perfect carpenter! But this is how I hung them.

First, I took a hammer and three nails. I nailed in one of the nails in the middle of the first panel.

I let it rock until it found its center (you can also use a level, but I couldn't find ours). I then hammered in the remaining nails.

As you see from the picture, the first panel is up. I have nailed it into the wall and pulled out the second panel.

We have old plaster walls so the nails do NOT hold it for use. I place it to get it level and to mark my place in the wall.

Here you see me placing both panels up together in line, and hung with the temp. nails.

Now, I pulled out my screwdriver, dry wall anchors and screws. I pulled out the nails and popped the anchors in their previous holes.

Then it was just a simple technique to hold the panels (together) and screw them together, into the wall!

Here you can see that there are TWO panels together.

This is to make sure you have enough padding to use staples or thumbtack!

Full hung with anchors and screws. I threw a nail in the middle as it seemed to bow a bit that bugged me LOL

Typically, this won't be seen once you are finished as the boards will be covered with craft paper or art work. ;)

Finally, here is our fun fall pumpkin finished board. Ready for use and good to go~!

Here is another board I made. Completely done including colored craft paper and adornment artwork.

It cost me a total of $10.00 for each board! Great bargain and so easy to do too~!

Christian Mom's Rebuttal to the Celebration of Halloween

2009-10-12T13:10:00.000-05:00

I know that there are a great deal of fellow Christian mom's who have been convicted to omit the celebration of Halloween in their lives. They often site these reasoning as the fact that the celebration is pagan to the core. They give reasoning behind it that the origins included satanic worship and has no biblical means to glorify the holiday.

I have been in prayer and reading about this Christian conviction for years and have done
extensive research. I ran across this article which I have to say, is spot on to the historical references to witches and pagans. I am not saying that some sects certainly did choose to worship the devil and all things wicked and despised, but the vast majority feel into the pagan believes of worshiping nature.

That in itself is still an abomination to the Lord as worshiping false idols is a sin and clearly abhorred by the Lord our God. I will not mince words to try to make this aspect of the oliday's origins sound "prettier" than it was. Clearly Halloween IS rooted in PAGAN (not necessarily predominately satanic) worship.

Keep in mind however, that Christmas is also rooted in the Pagan traditions and c celebrations. Christians have taken a fully pagan celebration and remolded it to deep worship and celebration the birth of the messiah! Praise the Lord!

Many Christians provide scripture as a source to ban the celebration of Halloween. Here are some that are often used...

Scripture
also records God’s command: "When you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone… who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord"
(Deuteronomy 18:9–14). The Bible clearly forbids dabbling in witchcraft and the occult and idolatry, but the Israelites ignored these instructions. Israel incurred God’s wrath because its people "practiced witchcraft and soothsaying, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger" (2 Kings 17:17).

How is this at all applicable to how WE celebrate Halloween?

When we carve pumpkins, we use it as a lesson and a reminder to how Jesus saves us. How His sacrifice lead to our salvation. Pulling the yucky goo from the pumpkin is just like Jesus pulling our sin from us through forgiving us and changing our hearts. He then replaces that disgusting sin with His own Light. The Light in the Darkness of the world.

We dress in fun costumes that do NOT glorify demonic elements. (Nothing scary, evil, demonic, or the like. ) This is a FUN celebration that shows how God makes us NEW in our salvation. The costumes we don are a symbol of the changes the Lord is making in our hearts as we moved from the darkness into the light. Celebrate in the joy of the sacrifice
and the journey as His child!

Fellowship with friends and family, sharing food and treats. Breaking bread and sharing. Use the time to share the light of Jesus with scripture candy! Testify when people ask about your pumpkins.

NOW, in reference to the scripture, please tell me: How is that practicing witchcrafts? Did we soothsay in our practice? How is dressing in friendly (un-demonic) costumes "calling upon the dead"? In no way, shape or form did we "interpret omens, invoke a sorcerer or one who conjures spells. We did not practice witchcraft or use a medium or spiritist. Never
have and never will!!

I think Miriam Van Scott wrote a nice piece on this

...It's true that
Halloween has its origins in pagan religions, however these were
NATURE worshipers, NOT Satan worshipers! Ignorant of the truth,
these Druids and Celts tried to manage in a hostile and unknowable
world. When Christianity came to Ireland, it was embraced and
celebrated. Residual practice of some Halloween customs continued
as a cultural, NOT religious observence, in much the same way not
all people who celebrate St. Partick's Day are Roman Catholic...

Last, she misses the message that Christ HAS conquered death and Satan, eradicating fear of the unknown.What was once a dark pagan feast is now a time for candy, costumes, and visiting neighbors --- what a wonderful example of "good conquering evil" and "light overcoming darkness"! Teaching kids to cower in the darkness, smugly telling themselves that they are faithful "friends of Jesus" while their peers go trick or treating to "honor the devil" is sorely inaccurate and unfair. (That sentiment actually attributes MORE power to Satan, as if we are in his grasp
and are left without hope.) After all, Jesus himself did not run
from "evil doers"; he mixed with them, broke bread and
participated in cultural festivals alongside "the wicked".

A
better message to kids is that Halloween is a reminder that unlike the Druids and other pagans, Christians no longer have to fear spooks and spirits, or worry over our ultimate fate, for death has lost its sting. What we celebrate is NOT the power of Satan, but the reality of Salvation through the sacrifice of Christ! Now THAT'S a message I want to give my kids!

More Rebuttal:

An email from ”Apostle Kim” sites the following scriptures as
yet further reasoning to omit the celebration of Halloween.

1. II Corinthians 12:21 – Paul said he was fearful that many in the church at Corinth had not repented of the sexual vice, impurity and sensuality
(lasciviousness) they formerly practiced.

2. Galatians 5:19 – Galatians 5:19 lists lasciviousness as a work of the flesh.

3. Ephesians 4:19 – Paul put pressure on the Ephesians to no
longer live as the heathens. He described their perverseness as
folly and emptiness of soul. He said that their moral
understanding was darkened and they had alienated and estranged
themselves from God because of ignorance and willful blindness.

Finally, he said that they had recklessly abandoned themselves to unbridled sensuality and they were eager and greedy to indulge in every kind of impurity.

4. I Peter 4:3 – This scripture speaks of believers who used to
walk in lasciviousness, banqueting, abominable idolatries and
revelry. The first question I asked about this passage is what is
wrong with having a banquet. This particular word ‘banqueting’
is potos in the Greek and it means to have a drinking-bout or
carousal. The word carousal refers to having a drunken, noisy
feast of revelry. The word revel literally means hell-raiser or to
commit acts that lift up the throne of Lucifer. Rebellion is as
the sin of witchcraft but reveling is an abomination against God
that includes acts directly carried out to mock him. These are the
godless who shake their fists at God and say, “Satan is
lord, where is the God of Israel while we shake our fists at Him?”
The powerful thing about this is that God does not move or is not
stimulated in man’s time. In His time the godless will be
judged and dealt with.

5. The last scripture that I would like to address on this topic is Jude 1:4. This scripture needs to be read out loud. Read it with me:
For certain men have crept stealthily [gaining entrance secretly by a side door]. Their doom was predicted long ago, ungodly (impious, profane) persons who pervert the grace (the spiritual blessings and favor) of our God in lawlessness and wantonness and in immorality, and disown and deny our sole Master and Lord, Jesus Christ (The Messiah, the Anointed One) (Amplified)

Pumpkin carving, candy sharing and non-demonic costumes in no way impute sexual vice, impurity and lasciviousness. Clearly these scripture references do not have anything to do with a Christian's celebration of Halloween but rather call a reminder to the human condition to be drawn into sexual impurity. If find no idolatries in candy or fellowship.

Christian's already typically would segregate themselves from immodest or demonic costuming and do not elect to recklessly abandoned themselves to unbridled sensuality; be it on Halloween or any other day of the year, nor do we “be a hell raiser” or live in rebellion worshiping idolatries. These scriptures are calling to the human condition of allowing yourself to be called away from the Lord and embracing sin... we are doing neither.

MORE ON THIS AUTHOR:

Further more; the author references
curses... “Because Halloween operates under a time released curse and must be utterly destroyed it cannot be displaced. In other words, churches must be watchful of their evangelism during this season.”

She continues that... “During this period demons are assigned against those who participate in the rituals and festivities dedications. These demons are automatically drawn to the fetishes that open doors for them to come into the lives of human beings. For example, most of the candy that is sold in this season has been dedicated and prayed over by witches. I do not buy candy during the Halloween season. Curses are sent through the tricks and treats of the innocent whether they get it
from door to door or just buy it from the local grocery store. The demons cannot tell the difference.”

Even the colors of Halloween (orange, brown and dark red) are dedicated. The root of these colors are connected to the Fall Equinox which is usually around the 20th or 21st of September each year. It is also called Mabon. During this season witches are celebrating the changing of the seasons from summer to fall.

She furthers to state that it is unacceptable for Christians to celebrate the seasons, to have orange brown and dark red colors from our homes, to never assemble around campfire rings and more as "these were pagan practices".

It seems to me that this author lives in much fear!

As Max Lucado outlined in his book “Fearless”...
Jesus takes our fears seriously. The one statement he made more than any other was this: don’t be afraid

So don’t be afraid. You are worth much more than many
sparrows.(Matt. 10:31 ncv)
Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven. (Matt. 9:2 nasb)
I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have
enough. (Matt. 6:25 nlt)
Don’t be afraid. Just believe, and your daughter will be well. (Luke
8:50 ncv)
Take courage. I am here! (Matt. 14:27 nlt)
Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. (Matt.
10:28)
Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32)
Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. . . . I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me
where I am. ( John 14:1, 3 nlt)
Don’t be troubled or afraid. ( John 14:27 nlt)
“Why are you frightened?” he asked. “Why are your hearts
filled with doubt?” (Luke 24:38 nlt)
You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are
not alarmed. (Matt. 24:6 niv)
Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be
afraid.” (Matt. 17:7)
“Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” (Matt. 8:26).

She seems to really need to stop resting in Legalism and instead rest and trust in the Lord Jesus.

As Lucado states... “Fear itself is not a sin, but I can lead to sin...When we exclude God from the solution and exacerbate the problem. We subject ourselves to a position of fear, allowing anxiety to dominate and define our lives. Joy-sapping worries. Day-numbing dread. Repeated bouts of insecurity that petrify and paralyze us. Hysteria is not from God. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Tim. 1:7).

I pray for this author. That she would find that Jesus has already won! We need not fear demonic forces but instead, rest in the Lord Jesus. Cast your fears upon the Lord and “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. . . . I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. ( John 14:1, 3 nlt)

Christians do not need to banish this Pagan holiday - exactly the opposite! Educate your Children to use this as a CELEBRATION and a way to testify. Celebrate that Jesus's sacrifice conquered death and Satan! His sacrifice eradicated the fear of the darkness and the devil.

What was once a dark pagan feast is now a time for Celebrating the Light overcoming the darkness! Enjoy and delight in the Lord and take the Holiday and make it ours! Make the celebration KNOWN to the secular world! Take part by enjoying in candy, (friendly, loving costumes), and visiting neighbors! Share the stories of WHY WE celebrate!

Show them how jack-o-lanterns are a prime example of how the Lord Jesus scooped out our sins, and replaced it with His glorious light! Our carved pumpkins are the Light in the Darkness. An absolute symbol of Jesus's sacrifice DEFEATING the darkness and bringing salvation to the lost and hurting. Carve your pumpkins with crosses and statements that speak our message.

Show them how we choose to rejoice in that sacrifice by having FUN! Share the LIGHT not the legalism of our faith. Just my two cents as to what the Lord has convicted upon my heart with this.

Free Curricula Resources have been UPDATED!

2009-10-10T00:02:00.000-05:00

I took the time to go through and do a basic alphabetical re-organization, added some new resources, a couple new categories, and tried to organize it a bit better for easier readability. Please email me if you have a fantastic resource to share, or if the links are broken.

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<--- got sooo much done today! I feels wonderful!!! I've got more to do tomorrow but I'll take my moment to relish in today's victory. hehehe24 September at 20:44

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Fruit of the Spirit: Love Cultivating Spirit-Given Character
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<--- got sooo much done today! I feels wonderful!!! I've got more to do tomorrow but I'll take my moment to relish in today's victory. hehehe
24 September at 20:44