Random Thoughts & Doings

In case you've been wondering where I am, I've been spending lots of time homeschooling, organizing, Ebaying and Craigslist shopping (in that order).

Homeschooling
We are on week 6. Everybody is still on schedule. That in itself is a miracle. Usually, by now, we are lagging in some subjects. But, thanks to my deep concentration (i.e., no computer time) and wonderful incentive program, the kids are keeping up and we are cruising along. My incentive program is as follows:

1. Complete every subject (including piano practice & silent reading) and child visits treasure box.
2. For every book read it is entered into their book log. Book log can hold 20 books. When book log is complete child receives a $20 gift certificate to Barnes & Nobles or Half Price Books (they choose). This is for the older girls only since they are reading chapter books.
3. At the end of the quarter we go to The Castle. They give 3-5 tokens for every A. I will also give any report card with straight A's a gift certificate to store of their choice (Claire's, a bookstore, or Target).
4. For my younger kids, they get a scratch and sniff sticker after every reading lesson (100 EZ lessons and Sound Beginnings).

I've read the book Punished by Rewards. But my parents did the same with me. And until it clicks and they are working hard for education sake, I feel no shame in giving them incentives. They rare really responding with diligence.

Treasure box includes the following items: stickers, pens, little animals, religious bookmarks, gum, stationary paper/envelopes (they get 1 of each, not entire set), and other items. Although the stationary and gum seem to be the most popular. I'm ordering some religious stationary paper to include in the treasure box.

Organizing
I'm slowly working on the closets of our home. I'm trying to work on them a little each day. In the past, I used to tackle these projects with hours and hours of my time. Which led to lots of procrastination. Now, I'm using my computer time to dedicate 15-30 minutes a day to clearing out closets. My goal is to get rid of excess clothing, toys and linen.

***Ironically, while I'm decluttering I'm spending some time at the following sites***

Ebay
So far I've won 2 lots of Star Wars figurines, 2 lots of vintage Little People, and the book, Strawberry Girl, by Lois Lenski. I'm hoping to show self restraint and give these as Christmas gifts. This will mean I will have to hide the Star Wars figurines from Craig and the Little People from myself!! LOL!!

Craiglist
I bought a stainless steel dishwasher for less than $100. I also got Isabelle the cutest wicker desk for her room. I've never been a big fan of Craigslist mostly because I didn't know what to look up. Now I realize I can look up everything!! We're slowly renovating our kitchen and I'm now shopping for other appliances on Craigslist. And we'll be listing our old ones there! How fun!!

So, this is what I've been up to.

Catherine had her 4 yo bday party last week. It was Fiesta themed and I need to upload pics. But my students need my attention. Hope to get back here soon!