Here's Anna reciting her first poem of the year, George Washington by Stephen Vincent Benet. I had to record in 2 parts so that the file was small enough to download from my Blackberry. Enjoy!
Part 1:
Part 2 :
Showing posts with label Homeschooling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Homeschooling. Show all posts
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
The preschool math lesson that was never taught/completed .....
... because Catherine was too logical and smarter than the teacher (who shall remain nameless).
Today we were working on the concepts alike and different. On the first page she had to circle the objects that were alike. Each row had 4 objects (like 4 kites) and she had to circle the 2 that were identical.
EASY.
The next page she had to cross out the one item that was different from the other 3 objects in that row (3 penguins with ties while 1 penguin wore a scarf).
EASY.
The next page she had to match the items that were alike or went together (pen with paper, fork with plate, paintbrush with paint, etc.).
EASY
Slowly the exercises are building up to this one and this is were I was stumped. Ready? Remember, I went to graduate school and couldn't explain this to Catherine (who just turned 5 two days ago). Ready?
Which one of these does not belong?
Attempt #1: Catherine, which one of these doesn't belong? She couldn't tell. So I thought I would prompt her with easy questions.
Catherine, what do you do with a hat? She doesn't know.
Catherine, do you wear a hat? No, she says she isn't wearing one.
But you do wear a hat, right? No, she says she puts them on her head but doesn't wear them on her body.
But your head is on your body, right? Yes, it is.
So you DO wear a hat. No, hers is lost.
But people wear hats, right? What people?
But people wear ties? Yes, they do.
So people wear ties AND hats?! No, she's never seen people wear cowboy hats with ties.
Well, no, they don't have to wear them together but ... Oh! So ties and hats don't go together! Do I cross them out?
NO! Don't cross them out!
Attempt #3: Catherine, which of these things do you wear? Socks. I don't have any ties and I lost my hat.
Okay, but what do people wear? Which people? She wants me to be more specific?
Daddy's (I wince as I say this hoping she gets it)?? Daddy wears socks and ties. He only has baseball hats and not a cowboy hat.
Okay, but let's pretend he has a cowboy hat. Would he wear it? No! And starts laughing at the idea.
I was getting ready for attempt #4 when Anna came up and asked me if I was ready to go. Perfect timing! Lesson to be continued ......
*EDITED* Just came back to add more. I read this to Craig tonight. I was afraid it would be boring and that I would be the only one to find humor in my story. When I got to the part of "which one does not belong?" I paused to allow Craig to answer.
Craig: The tie.
Me: WHAT? Are you serious?
Craig: Yeah, the tie.
At this point I'm thinking he's just trying to give me a hard time.
Me: Why the tie?
Craig: Because the other 3 hold volume and the tie doesn't.
Me: What? You think a preschool math book expects a child to see that one can not hold volume? What about 3 can be worn and one (the vase) can't.
Craig: That works, too. So what's the answer?
Me: What's the answer? Are you serious?
Craig: Yeah, what's the answer?
Me: The book doesn't come with answers. Its preschool! The answers should be obvious.
Craig: Well, I thought it was the tie.
And he walked away.
**Maybe this latter part isn't funny either but its cracking me up. Maybe tomorrow I should ask Catherine, "Sweetie, which one of these is different?" To which she'll reply, "The tie, mommy." ROFLOL! Because up until 5 minutes ago I would have shaken my head and said try again. Maybe she actually does get it and is just an out-of-the-box thinker like her daddy and not square like me!! **
LOL!!!
Today we were working on the concepts alike and different. On the first page she had to circle the objects that were alike. Each row had 4 objects (like 4 kites) and she had to circle the 2 that were identical.
EASY.
The next page she had to cross out the one item that was different from the other 3 objects in that row (3 penguins with ties while 1 penguin wore a scarf).
EASY.
The next page she had to match the items that were alike or went together (pen with paper, fork with plate, paintbrush with paint, etc.).
EASY
Slowly the exercises are building up to this one and this is were I was stumped. Ready? Remember, I went to graduate school and couldn't explain this to Catherine (who just turned 5 two days ago). Ready?
.jpg)
Which one of these does not belong?
Attempt #1: Catherine, which one of these doesn't belong? She couldn't tell. So I thought I would prompt her with easy questions.
Catherine, what do you do with a hat? She doesn't know.
Catherine, do you wear a hat? No, she says she isn't wearing one.
But you do wear a hat, right? No, she says she puts them on her head but doesn't wear them on her body.
But your head is on your body, right? Yes, it is.
So you DO wear a hat. No, hers is lost.
But people wear hats, right? What people?
*sigh*
Attempt #2: How about a tie? What do yo do with a tie? Do you wear ties? No, she doesn't.But people wear ties? Yes, they do.
So people wear ties AND hats?! No, she's never seen people wear cowboy hats with ties.
Well, no, they don't have to wear them together but ... Oh! So ties and hats don't go together! Do I cross them out?
NO! Don't cross them out!
Attempt #3: Catherine, which of these things do you wear? Socks. I don't have any ties and I lost my hat.
Okay, but what do people wear? Which people? She wants me to be more specific?
Daddy's (I wince as I say this hoping she gets it)?? Daddy wears socks and ties. He only has baseball hats and not a cowboy hat.
Okay, but let's pretend he has a cowboy hat. Would he wear it? No! And starts laughing at the idea.
I was getting ready for attempt #4 when Anna came up and asked me if I was ready to go. Perfect timing! Lesson to be continued ......
*EDITED* Just came back to add more. I read this to Craig tonight. I was afraid it would be boring and that I would be the only one to find humor in my story. When I got to the part of "which one does not belong?" I paused to allow Craig to answer.
Craig: The tie.
Me: WHAT? Are you serious?
Craig: Yeah, the tie.
At this point I'm thinking he's just trying to give me a hard time.
Me: Why the tie?
Craig: Because the other 3 hold volume and the tie doesn't.
Me: What? You think a preschool math book expects a child to see that one can not hold volume? What about 3 can be worn and one (the vase) can't.
Craig: That works, too. So what's the answer?
Me: What's the answer? Are you serious?
Craig: Yeah, what's the answer?
Me: The book doesn't come with answers. Its preschool! The answers should be obvious.
Craig: Well, I thought it was the tie.
And he walked away.
**Maybe this latter part isn't funny either but its cracking me up. Maybe tomorrow I should ask Catherine, "Sweetie, which one of these is different?" To which she'll reply, "The tie, mommy." ROFLOL! Because up until 5 minutes ago I would have shaken my head and said try again. Maybe she actually does get it and is just an out-of-the-box thinker like her daddy and not square like me!! **
LOL!!!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Half Day Friday's
Fridays have become our lightest school day, for many reasons. Mostly because its so close to the weekend and we prefer to start our weekends early! And so, I only assign math and have them finish any assignments from the week.
It is now noon and all subjects are done. Lunch has been eaten and baby is down for her nap.
What have the children decided to do with their spare time?
Play school!!! LOL!!
Isabelle is teaching Texas history using her notes and book from a co-op class she took a few years ago. Her students include Anna, Sophia & a reluctant Kolbe (who wanted to learn about sharks instead of Texans). Isabelle's school is not a democracy. She chose the subject and has decided to teach using the lecture method. LOL!
So far school has been in session for over 15 mins. and nobody has dropped out. Not bad! I see a future homeschooler in my Belle!
** UPDATE **
Sophia is Belle's first drop out. Sophia has declared it "boring."
Kolbe is on the verge of quitting. Anna is hanging in there.
It is now noon and all subjects are done. Lunch has been eaten and baby is down for her nap.
What have the children decided to do with their spare time?
Play school!!! LOL!!
Isabelle is teaching Texas history using her notes and book from a co-op class she took a few years ago. Her students include Anna, Sophia & a reluctant Kolbe (who wanted to learn about sharks instead of Texans). Isabelle's school is not a democracy. She chose the subject and has decided to teach using the lecture method. LOL!
So far school has been in session for over 15 mins. and nobody has dropped out. Not bad! I see a future homeschooler in my Belle!
** UPDATE **
Sophia is Belle's first drop out. Sophia has declared it "boring."
Kolbe is on the verge of quitting. Anna is hanging in there.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Patrick's Day
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We started our morning with traditional green pancakes. We've been eating them since Anna was 2 yo.
We're trying real hard to rise earlier. This morning's alarm was set for 7am and kids were dressed, fed, done with chores and ready to learn by 8 am. YEAH!
It's 1pm and our schoolwork is all done (Woohoo) and so we're about to begin our St. Patrick's craft. I'll post a pic when we're done.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
St. Martin Lanterns
Annie has a wonderful idea to celebrate St. Martin de Tours next Wednesday. I hope to make these with my kiddos. I love it when I find out about an idea with enough time to implement (at least 3-5 days). I'm not so good with reading about an idea the night before and implementing.
My November Resolution (since its not the new year ... liturgical or regular) is to do one saint craft a week. That will be a big task for me!
For November we'll celebrate the following saints:
November 11th - St. Martin de Tours
November 17th - St. Elizabeth of Hungary
November 24th - St. Andrew Dung-Lac & Companions
December 3rd - St. Francis Xavier or St. Rose of Lima (only because this is Sophia Roses' bday and it would be nice to celebrate her saint name)
Wish me luck. And please email me any ideas for these saints. Other than reading books and handing out coloring sheets, I'm not very good with coming up with craft ideas BUT can steal ideas beautifully!! ;-)
isansoko at yahoo dot com
My November Resolution (since its not the new year ... liturgical or regular) is to do one saint craft a week. That will be a big task for me!
For November we'll celebrate the following saints:
November 11th - St. Martin de Tours
November 17th - St. Elizabeth of Hungary
November 24th - St. Andrew Dung-Lac & Companions
December 3rd - St. Francis Xavier or St. Rose of Lima (only because this is Sophia Roses' bday and it would be nice to celebrate her saint name)
Wish me luck. And please email me any ideas for these saints. Other than reading books and handing out coloring sheets, I'm not very good with coming up with craft ideas BUT can steal ideas beautifully!! ;-)
isansoko at yahoo dot com
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Wordless Wednesday
*How my house looks like on a good day of homeschooling (good day defined as everyone getting ALL their school work done). Just trying to "keep it real!" ;-)
Today was a good day!!
Sunday, November 01, 2009
All Saint's Day Pics
Today we celebrated All Saint's Day with our homeschooling co-op. This is definitely one of my favorite holidays!!! I love the idea of living out the liturgical season. While I don't always bake special treats or make ingenious crafts for saint feast days, I do go all out for All Saint's Day.
I've made these costumes over the years. This year I only had the time and energy for making a black bonnet for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Thankfully, Catherine had never worn our Kateri Tekakwitha outfit. And Sophia had never worn the Mother Teresa costume. Anna LOVES being St. Elizabeth of Hungary. And Kolbe cares mostly about saints with swords! =)
Blessed Virgin Mary
St. Kateri Tekakwitha
*playing Saint Musical Chairs*
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
All you holy men and women, pray for us!! My prayer is that I raise saints, please God.
I've made these costumes over the years. This year I only had the time and energy for making a black bonnet for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Thankfully, Catherine had never worn our Kateri Tekakwitha outfit. And Sophia had never worn the Mother Teresa costume. Anna LOVES being St. Elizabeth of Hungary. And Kolbe cares mostly about saints with swords! =)
Here is today's line up of saints.
Blessed Virgin Mary
St. Kateri Tekakwitha
*playing Saint Musical Chairs*
St. George (with real shield & sword!!)
*Every year Kolbe chooses to be either St. Michael the Archangel or St. George. I think he's been St. Francis once. Before he knew about swords. Next year I hope to steer him towards a different type of saint. Perhaps a martyr? =)
Bl. Mother Teresa
St. Elizabeth of Hungary
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
All you holy men and women, pray for us!! My prayer is that I raise saints, please God.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
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!
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!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Focusing
My computer is working. YEAH!! However, I've gotten used to life without Internet, kinda like cable. And I'm juggling lots of plates, remember!! We started school last week and had a wonderful week. 6th, 4th, 2nd, 1st and preschool. School goes more smoothly when I'm not here. :-(
We're still adjusting (I'm still adjusting) to our new school year.
We have co-op and swimming starting in a few weeks so I'm trying to get ahead (or at least stay on track!!! LOL!!)
I'll return when I have a better handle on things.
Off to read to my 1st and 2nd grader.
Prayer Intention: Craig left this morning and will be gone for a week. He'll be home for a couple of days before leaving for another week. Could you keep me in your thoughts and prayers? Maybe drop by for a chat and bring me some tea and cookies?? Internet is usually my escape when he's gone but I'm trying REALLY HARD to be present to the kids.
We're still adjusting (I'm still adjusting) to our new school year.
We have co-op and swimming starting in a few weeks so I'm trying to get ahead (or at least stay on track!!! LOL!!)
I'll return when I have a better handle on things.
Off to read to my 1st and 2nd grader.
Prayer Intention: Craig left this morning and will be gone for a week. He'll be home for a couple of days before leaving for another week. Could you keep me in your thoughts and prayers? Maybe drop by for a chat and bring me some tea and cookies?? Internet is usually my escape when he's gone but I'm trying REALLY HARD to be present to the kids.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Near the end
Our school year is almost done. All of us are ready to quit. There's no one here to stop us from stopping. We could just close our books and call today the last day. Soooooooooooo tempting!
Please pardon my absence. I'm trying to hold out for as long as possible. At least long enough to finish our assessments and testing.
It doesn't help that we took last Thursday off to go to the zoo AND yesterday to go to Sea World.
Please pardon my absence. I'm trying to hold out for as long as possible. At least long enough to finish our assessments and testing.
It doesn't help that we took last Thursday off to go to the zoo AND yesterday to go to Sea World.
For me the hardest part of homeschooling is the last few weeks. Seeing the school kids finishing makes me wish we had a definite end time. But, alas, we've always finished after school kids and after we're done with our subjects. Some subjects (like math, science & history) are already done. Other subjects (like English, Latin, Spelling, and Geography) are not. Do you see a trend as to which subjects are our favorite and which we get behind?
In my defense, I've enjoyed all our field trips. But next year my school year resolution is to hit week 16 a full 2 weeks before Christmas. That means we would have to start by August 17th. And not miss one week at all! LOL!! I think I'll start next school year August 10th and be ecstatic if we reach week 14 before Christmas. That means we could still finish the school year (including a spring break) BEFORE the end of May!!!!!!!!!
LOL!! Every year I plan out this perfect year. And every year I reach June with school work still being done. *sigh*
Back to grading and tutoring and reading aloud and spelling tests and locating countries and translating ..................... The other week Isabelle translated as follows:
habitatis: you all live INSTEAD OF you (pl) live
LOL!! Only in Texas!
OK! Now I really am leaving to get back to work. Nice chatting with you!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
I'm still here!!
I'm just so busy that I haven't had time to sit down and blog. This year's resolutions are just the two: (1) pray my Rosary first thing in the morning (before ANYTHING else) and (2) smiling more (St. Josemaria says sometimes smiling is the best mortification).
We're slowly adjusting to being back to school after the holidays. Baby Veronica is smiling and cooing and everyone takes turns holding her. I'm trying to smile more which means I have to go to bed earlier and try to stick to my schedule. LOL!!
Isabelle is REALLY thriving with our morning routine of waking up before the rest of the house. I'm still eating breakfast and tea with her while we go over her English, spelling, and memory work. She does better when its quiet and there are no distractions. I'm a happier homeschooler when she's happy! LOL!!
Tomorrow is the first day of co-op. The kids are SOOO excited!! We spent part of today shopping for school supplies (like drawing pads, sketching pencils and erasers, new backpacks, etc.).
The kids are really loving co-op. Isabelle sees it as her one day of going away to school. We start the day with morning mass at 8am. Classes start at 9am and are an hour each. They get a 30 minute recess after 2nd period and a 30 minute lunch after 3rd period.
Here's the schedule for this semester:
Isabelle
Period 1: Latin
Period 2: Theatre (A.D.)
Period 3: TX history
Period 4: Intro. to Interior Design (very excited about this class)
Anna
Period 1: US History
Period 2: Art
Period 3: Theatre (Abraham & Isaac)
Sophia
Period 1: US History
Period 2: Experience the Bible
Period 3: Theatre (Abraham & Isaac)
Kolbe
Period 1: Theatre (Noah's Ark)
Period 2: Pre-school
Period 3: Pre-school
*Yes, Kolbe is in kindergarten. But he's still not able to write or color very well. And he's fidgety. He fits in perfectly with the preschoolers!! LOL!! He might be the tallest but he's behaving and loving it. I'm still doing kindergarten at home with him but really wanted something that he would enjoy and wouldn't stress over.
******************************************
I can't believe how fast the kids are growing!! Can you believe that almost 11 years ago I was having my first baby. I was only 24 and felt so young and full of hope. I still feel young and full of hope. But, my definition of young has been bumped up to 35 and middle aged is now 50?!?
Tomorrow's my birthday and I'm going to go have breakfast with my mom-in-law (after I drop the kids off at co-op). Craig gets home Friday and then Isabelle has a Suzuki Piano Workshop this weekend.
I've also been VERY busy crocheting and sewing. Hobby Lobby had patterns on sale for $.99. I'm in the process of making 3 skirts, 1 baby blanket, and some tote bags. I think this month I replaced blogging with crafts. SORRY! ;-) I'll show some pictures of what I'm working on later.
Busy, busy, busy!! Happy, happy, happy!!
My new quote on the sidebar (for a while anyways) is:
From time to time I have wondered which kind of martyrdom is the greater: that of the person who receives death for the faith, at the hands of God 's enemies; or the martyrdom of someone who spends his years working with no other purpose than that of serving the Church and souls, and who grows old smiling, all the while passing unnoticed...For me, the unspectacular martyrdom is more heroic... That is your way.
-St JoseMaria Escriva, The Way of the Cross
We're slowly adjusting to being back to school after the holidays. Baby Veronica is smiling and cooing and everyone takes turns holding her. I'm trying to smile more which means I have to go to bed earlier and try to stick to my schedule. LOL!!
Isabelle is REALLY thriving with our morning routine of waking up before the rest of the house. I'm still eating breakfast and tea with her while we go over her English, spelling, and memory work. She does better when its quiet and there are no distractions. I'm a happier homeschooler when she's happy! LOL!!
Tomorrow is the first day of co-op. The kids are SOOO excited!! We spent part of today shopping for school supplies (like drawing pads, sketching pencils and erasers, new backpacks, etc.).
The kids are really loving co-op. Isabelle sees it as her one day of going away to school. We start the day with morning mass at 8am. Classes start at 9am and are an hour each. They get a 30 minute recess after 2nd period and a 30 minute lunch after 3rd period.
Here's the schedule for this semester:
Isabelle
Period 1: Latin
Period 2: Theatre (A.D.)
Period 3: TX history
Period 4: Intro. to Interior Design (very excited about this class)
Anna
Period 1: US History
Period 2: Art
Period 3: Theatre (Abraham & Isaac)
Sophia
Period 1: US History
Period 2: Experience the Bible
Period 3: Theatre (Abraham & Isaac)
Kolbe
Period 1: Theatre (Noah's Ark)
Period 2: Pre-school
Period 3: Pre-school
*Yes, Kolbe is in kindergarten. But he's still not able to write or color very well. And he's fidgety. He fits in perfectly with the preschoolers!! LOL!! He might be the tallest but he's behaving and loving it. I'm still doing kindergarten at home with him but really wanted something that he would enjoy and wouldn't stress over.
******************************************
I can't believe how fast the kids are growing!! Can you believe that almost 11 years ago I was having my first baby. I was only 24 and felt so young and full of hope. I still feel young and full of hope. But, my definition of young has been bumped up to 35 and middle aged is now 50?!?
Tomorrow's my birthday and I'm going to go have breakfast with my mom-in-law (after I drop the kids off at co-op). Craig gets home Friday and then Isabelle has a Suzuki Piano Workshop this weekend.
I've also been VERY busy crocheting and sewing. Hobby Lobby had patterns on sale for $.99. I'm in the process of making 3 skirts, 1 baby blanket, and some tote bags. I think this month I replaced blogging with crafts. SORRY! ;-) I'll show some pictures of what I'm working on later.
Busy, busy, busy!! Happy, happy, happy!!
My new quote on the sidebar (for a while anyways) is:
From time to time I have wondered which kind of martyrdom is the greater: that of the person who receives death for the faith, at the hands of God 's enemies; or the martyrdom of someone who spends his years working with no other purpose than that of serving the Church and souls, and who grows old smiling, all the while passing unnoticed...For me, the unspectacular martyrdom is more heroic... That is your way.
-St JoseMaria Escriva, The Way of the Cross
Monday, September 08, 2008
Very UN-TYPICAL Day in my life ......
.... in which everyone gets school done on a Monday!! This is nothing short of a miracle. Here's how my day went and why I am so surprised at its outcome. This is NOT to make anyone feel bad or lead anyone to think that I have it all together. Otherwise, the title would be "Typical." LOL!!
4:45 am Wake up because Kolbe & Catherine come crying into bedroom.
4:47 am Realize that alarm was supposed to go off at 5:15am *sigh*
4:49 am Decide to get out of bed. Might as well.
4:50am Try to convince Kolbe and Catherine to stay in bed.
5:15am Head out the door WITH Kolbe and Catherine to my parents. They are flying to Boston and need a ride to the airport. That is the ONLY reason I would ever wake up this early.
Stop at McDonald's for coffee and two chocolate milks.
5:30am Arrive at parents' house and wait in car for 10 minutes until they are ready.
6:30am Get back home. Both children are STILL awake. *sigh*
6:30-6:45 am Debate whether I should wake up the girls for mass.
6:45 am Wake up three older girls. Kolbe goes to sleep.
7:30 am Arrive early for mass and say ENTIRE rosary (LOL!! Shock locals that we're on time!!)
8:00 am Mass starts. Isabelle gets to serve since she was there early enough.
8:45 am Run to Target to pick up a sweet to celebrate Blessed Virgin Mary's Bday.
9:30 am Say bye to Craig as he heads out the door to drive to Austin.
10 am START SCHOOL (This is super late *sigh*)
**At this point I figure that anything we get done today is extra because we got to mass and I had to wake up at such an outrageous time. I tell myself I'm not going to sweat it.**
10-11:30 am Isabelle does math, science and Latin. Anna does math, history & science quiz.
11-11:30am I read to Sophia & Kolbe. I start falling asleep during the last book. I just CAN NOT stay up any more.
I call a recess and the girls abandon the school room. Chaos ensues upstairs as I try to take a nap on the sofa. I yell up several times for everyone to be quiet and to shut the door. I hear my cell phone go off at noon to remind us to pray The Angelus. I shut it off and continue my nap.
12:45am Woken up because kids are hungry. I tell them to eat a fruit and eat yesterday's spinach stuffed bread.
1:00 pm Wake up, eat lunch and tell kids they have 15 minutes to get back to school.
1:30 pm Isabelle and Anna do spelling.
2:00 pm Isabelle does memory work, religion and English. Anna does memory work & English.
3:00 pm We're done!! Well, not really. I still need to home school Kolbe and finish w/ Sophia. But I plan to do that during swim practice tonight. And the girls need to practice the piano BUT the baby is sleeping. She finally crashed around 2pm.
I'm amazed! And I need to go do some laundry now!! Maybe another miracle can occur today and it gets all done?? LOL!!
Who knew I would be happy to get up so early this morning? Originally, Craig was going to take my parents to the airport. But when he told me he was worried about being too tired to drive to Austin AND back after getting up so early, I made a rash decision to take his place. I hate when he drives tired. He slept in and woke up refreshed. And I feel better knowing he's on the road with a good sleep. Isn't it funny how God can reward the normally slothful. LOL!!
Anyone need a ride tomorrow morning????
4:45 am Wake up because Kolbe & Catherine come crying into bedroom.
4:47 am Realize that alarm was supposed to go off at 5:15am *sigh*
4:49 am Decide to get out of bed. Might as well.
4:50am Try to convince Kolbe and Catherine to stay in bed.
5:15am Head out the door WITH Kolbe and Catherine to my parents. They are flying to Boston and need a ride to the airport. That is the ONLY reason I would ever wake up this early.
Stop at McDonald's for coffee and two chocolate milks.
5:30am Arrive at parents' house and wait in car for 10 minutes until they are ready.
6:30am Get back home. Both children are STILL awake. *sigh*
6:30-6:45 am Debate whether I should wake up the girls for mass.
6:45 am Wake up three older girls. Kolbe goes to sleep.
7:30 am Arrive early for mass and say ENTIRE rosary (LOL!! Shock locals that we're on time!!)
8:00 am Mass starts. Isabelle gets to serve since she was there early enough.
8:45 am Run to Target to pick up a sweet to celebrate Blessed Virgin Mary's Bday.
9:30 am Say bye to Craig as he heads out the door to drive to Austin.
10 am START SCHOOL (This is super late *sigh*)
**At this point I figure that anything we get done today is extra because we got to mass and I had to wake up at such an outrageous time. I tell myself I'm not going to sweat it.**
10-11:30 am Isabelle does math, science and Latin. Anna does math, history & science quiz.
11-11:30am I read to Sophia & Kolbe. I start falling asleep during the last book. I just CAN NOT stay up any more.
I call a recess and the girls abandon the school room. Chaos ensues upstairs as I try to take a nap on the sofa. I yell up several times for everyone to be quiet and to shut the door. I hear my cell phone go off at noon to remind us to pray The Angelus. I shut it off and continue my nap.
12:45am Woken up because kids are hungry. I tell them to eat a fruit and eat yesterday's spinach stuffed bread.
1:00 pm Wake up, eat lunch and tell kids they have 15 minutes to get back to school.
1:30 pm Isabelle and Anna do spelling.
2:00 pm Isabelle does memory work, religion and English. Anna does memory work & English.
3:00 pm We're done!! Well, not really. I still need to home school Kolbe and finish w/ Sophia. But I plan to do that during swim practice tonight. And the girls need to practice the piano BUT the baby is sleeping. She finally crashed around 2pm.
I'm amazed! And I need to go do some laundry now!! Maybe another miracle can occur today and it gets all done?? LOL!!
Who knew I would be happy to get up so early this morning? Originally, Craig was going to take my parents to the airport. But when he told me he was worried about being too tired to drive to Austin AND back after getting up so early, I made a rash decision to take his place. I hate when he drives tired. He slept in and woke up refreshed. And I feel better knowing he's on the road with a good sleep. Isn't it funny how God can reward the normally slothful. LOL!!
Anyone need a ride tomorrow morning????
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Anna's Poetry Illustration
Every year the kids learn and memorize poetry. After they have learned a poem they illustrate and even copy it (if ability allows). Well, last year Anna never got around to illustrating or copying her favorite poem. So this week we did some catch up.
Here is her illustration for "The Song of Mr. Toad" by Kenneth Grahame. She's illustrating the third stanza. Ignore the wild, green markings. Unfortunately, she left her notebook out and a certain little brother took a crayon to her fine work. He got in trouble and she eventually stopped crying. I'll fix it with wite-out later. But I digress...... Here is her work:
Here is her illustration for "The Song of Mr. Toad" by Kenneth Grahame. She's illustrating the third stanza. Ignore the wild, green markings. Unfortunately, she left her notebook out and a certain little brother took a crayon to her fine work. He got in trouble and she eventually stopped crying. I'll fix it with wite-out later. But I digress...... Here is her work:
I think those are supposed to be Toucan birds (ala Froot Loops) on top of the ark! LOL!! The animals are crying and Mr. Toad is on the right.
Click on picture to enlarge. She is illustrating the 3rd stanza.Laugh of the Day
Today Kolbe had to narrate & illustrate his Bible story. I read to him about the Garden of Eden. The last sentence REALLY stuck out to him. It was something to the effect of: "They were naked without shame."
Kolbe immediately said, "I know what I'm drawing!! I'm going to draw the boy naked with his body tail and the girl naked with her nurses."
I almost choked on my water (which I'm not drinking enough of).
He did draw the woman but thankfully he's a very poor drawer AND he didn't ask me to label any body parts! LOL!!
I know, I know .... he should learn the proper anatomical terms so he doesn't grow up confused and messed up ..... yada... yada ... yada.
Kolbe immediately said, "I know what I'm drawing!! I'm going to draw the boy naked with his body tail and the girl naked with her nurses."
I almost choked on my water (which I'm not drinking enough of).
He did draw the woman but thankfully he's a very poor drawer AND he didn't ask me to label any body parts! LOL!!
I know, I know .... he should learn the proper anatomical terms so he doesn't grow up confused and messed up ..... yada... yada ... yada.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Motherhood, Pregnancy & Mood Swings
I'm on the mend and feeling much better. In fact, yesterday was the first day I felt like myself. And with that comes mood swings.
While I don't think I've ever blogged about it, I'll share that I'm very prone to mood swings. Probably bordering on manic. One day I can be feeling great and the next day feel so sad that I want to cry all day. I'm sure pregnancy has alot to do with that. I tend to get pre-partum depression, not post. And the things I cry about are the silliest!!!
I remember when I was pregnant with Catherine I spent all day crying because I was just convinced my kids were having a horrible childhood. After all, they hardly had any wooden food for the wooden kitchen Craig had built them. Craig was travelling and when he called to check on me, I couldn't stop crying about how they had this beautiful kitchen but no food other than plastic. And that they also didn't have enough utensils, toys for playing house, and other Montessori kind of stuff.
Poor guy! It must be a helpless feeling to hear your wife crying about such nonsense. Since he couldn't reach into the phone and strangle me, he did the very next best thing ...... he told me to order some wooden food.
That's just one example. I can laugh about it now. But at the time it really felt like the worst thing in the world.
Luckily, I'm able to recognize when I'm having a bad day. And sometimes all I can hope for is that the day goes quicker because a good night's rest seems to fix everything. Except that in the morning I have regrets. I've learned NOT to blog on those days! LOL! I can sound pretty hopeless and whiny.
But yesterday, I was in the midst of it when I decided to email my consultant. I seem to battle self doubt ALOT when it comes to homeschooling. And most of my homeschooling problems are really more about my lack of faith. I tend to hyper focus on academic trouble spots my kids are experiencing and forget to pray or to see their progress. And I panic and lose it and cry. And then I start thinking about other areas in my life and before you know it, I have an entire set of problems that are really unrelated.
Yesterday was one of those days.
So, when Craig got home he called his mom to come over and hang out with the kids while we went out to talk. Because talking can solve most of my problems. LOL! I just don't like to talk to just anybody.
He took me to a Puerto Rican restaurant I've always wanted to try. They had live music and everybody spoke Spanish in that familiar accent that reminds me of childhood. The food reminded me of home and the happy people really made me feel better. I could tell some of the patrons were regulars because they were dancing with the waiters!! And for a brief second I felt bad that my children were not familiar with their culture. I almost got sad again just thinking about it!! LOL!
But, talking to Craig and telling him my worries helped me to see things in perspective. Some of my fears had included not finding that special friend yet. My fears about Belle's schooling. Fears about whether I spend enough time with the little ones. Whether I'm happy enough. Whether I will ever get the hang of grocery shopping and having enough of the good food for my hungry caterpillars. Etc., etc., etc. Silly female talk that just had to get out.
Honestly, I don't know how much Craig was taking in. Because I don't ever change what I have to say. But he said the right things at the right time while he enjoyed his food. He reassured me and was constantly telling me to be patient.
Patient that a special friend will come along. Seems like all my special friends live 3-4 hours away!!
Patient that I would see all the progress that Belle has made. She really has. I just sometimes forget to see the forest from the trees. Actually, I don't think I know what a forest looks like because I'm so busy examining every little leaf!!
Patient that this school year will be just as successful. Patient with myself to not expect perfection.
Patience ....... that's a very hard virtue for me.
And so when I got home, I was still thinking about everything he said but also wishing I had someone to hang out with or call or just be whatever. Why do I have to be such a social creature? I mean Craig has no need to have friends. He enjoys them but he doesn't pine away with missing them. And my Anna and Sophia are the same. They are just happy to be home and just be.
Isabelle and I are birds of the same feather. And I sooooo understand her struggles. And I was thinking about how I was going to raise this precious child ... when I visited Blair's blog.
And all of a sudden I saw how silly I was being. Just seeing pictures of Sr. Mary Rebekah made me want to stay home and just be the best mom ever. It reminded me that the goal for my children isn't academic success but eternal happiness. That it didn't matter how many friends they had, so long as they were quality friendships.
I think the reason I love reading blogs so much is because they keep me in touch with precious friends who have touched my life so dearly. I'm just having to learn that I can't see these friends on a daily basis.
Its interesting that I can TOTALLY accept the separation a young women must go through to become a consecrated sister. Of course they need to not be of this world. And yet, those reunions with long ago friends must be so sweet. BUT, I struggle with the idea of myself being separated from dear friends. I want the ability to see them on a daily basis sometimes!!! LOL!
I've cherished all the friends who have visited this summer. But it can't last. I have to come down from the mountain top. Back to regular life. Which isn't so bad. Its just so ordinary.
But that's where real life has to be lived, in the ordinary. And hopefully, I can remember that all year and teach that to my children. Because while they don't ever want parties to end when someone is visiting, neither do I when I'm visiting with a dear friend. Sometimes, going back to the ordinary is the hardest. How hard it must have been for Peter, James and John after being on the mountain with Jesus!!! I'd want to set up camp, too!
All this to say, my sinusitis is doing better, my mood is leveling off, Craig is grocery shopping this morning (what a saint), and I'm still learning to accept the ordinary. I'm going to really try to focus on the beauty of simplicity and quietness. And on the need to accept where I'm at right now. And thinking of the sisters is a great mental image for me.
This post will also be read often as Craig leaves in a week for a longer than normal trip. I won't be able to reach out and touch him as often as I need to. An opportunity to rely on the only one who can hold me up, my Lord. If only I could remember that daily! Hourly even!
Lest you think I'm unappreciative of the wonderful day yesterday was, I do remember some tidbits that were great. The kids had a tea party complete with sugar cubes. They've been spoiled and now consider sugar cubes a necessity for a bonafide tea party.
The kids are still asking for school! So far, everyone is enjoying their work. I'm working on a daily schedule for all the kids. I think I've finished Belle's. I just need a list with an order of subjects so there is more regularity to our days. School goes smoother when everyone knows what to do next. I've even color coded the subjects with either green (meaning go ahead without me) or red (meaning stop and do with me). I did this last year and our days flowed better. Unfortunately, it took me 4 schedules before I found the one that worked for us. Hopefully, this schedule won't need too many revisions!!
I was able to relax in a nice, clean home. I've been feeling stressed about the state of my home. I've even been attending home management meetings once a month. I don't know if they helped in terms of making me a better housekeeper (I'm not all that bad actually, its more like I'm a perfectionist), but the meetings have helped me to realize things about myself. One thing I've come to see is that I'm a perfectionist. Also, I'm juggling alot of plates.
And, so, instead of waiting until baby arrives, Craig has gotten me some weekly help. Thursday I was able to focus on being a mother and teacher without worrying about also keeping house. I was able to play UNO with Sophia after school work was done. I started a pot of chicken noodle soup around 2pm. I was able to just unwind and be with the kids instead of running off to catch up on the hundreds of things that always seem to be calling for me.
I am thankful. And I pray that I grow in patience. The good Lord hears my prayers and has seen to it that another little one joins our family so I can continue to practice this virtue I pray for so often!!! Baby Smith is growing and thriving and doesn't seem to require any sleep!! ;-/
Now if only I could get back that email I sent off to my consultant!!
********************
Here's a link to a video Dominican Joy: Live! that I've watched too many times!! While I am so happy with the vocation God has called me to, I still find that many of the things the sisters say speak to my heart and apply to me.
Quoting one sister (who was quoting of my favorite saints):
This will be my motto for this year!!
I encourage you to watch it!! Like I said, I watch it often and its amazing all the ideas I get for my little domestic church and way of life. Maybe one day I should be so lucky to have a daughter led to this wonderful order! My love for the Dominicans dates back to graduate school when I first met Fr. Cessario. He prayed over Isabelle when she was a little baby (because she started attending classes with me when she was 3 weeks old!!) and wondered whether her being in his classes would affect her vocation (as a Dominican). Who knows?!?
Gotta go. My wonderful husband just invited my parents and parent-in-laws for BBQ. He knows me so well and knows when I need a little party!! LOL!!
God bless you this weekend!
While I don't think I've ever blogged about it, I'll share that I'm very prone to mood swings. Probably bordering on manic. One day I can be feeling great and the next day feel so sad that I want to cry all day. I'm sure pregnancy has alot to do with that. I tend to get pre-partum depression, not post. And the things I cry about are the silliest!!!
I remember when I was pregnant with Catherine I spent all day crying because I was just convinced my kids were having a horrible childhood. After all, they hardly had any wooden food for the wooden kitchen Craig had built them. Craig was travelling and when he called to check on me, I couldn't stop crying about how they had this beautiful kitchen but no food other than plastic. And that they also didn't have enough utensils, toys for playing house, and other Montessori kind of stuff.
Poor guy! It must be a helpless feeling to hear your wife crying about such nonsense. Since he couldn't reach into the phone and strangle me, he did the very next best thing ...... he told me to order some wooden food.
That's just one example. I can laugh about it now. But at the time it really felt like the worst thing in the world.
Luckily, I'm able to recognize when I'm having a bad day. And sometimes all I can hope for is that the day goes quicker because a good night's rest seems to fix everything. Except that in the morning I have regrets. I've learned NOT to blog on those days! LOL! I can sound pretty hopeless and whiny.
But yesterday, I was in the midst of it when I decided to email my consultant. I seem to battle self doubt ALOT when it comes to homeschooling. And most of my homeschooling problems are really more about my lack of faith. I tend to hyper focus on academic trouble spots my kids are experiencing and forget to pray or to see their progress. And I panic and lose it and cry. And then I start thinking about other areas in my life and before you know it, I have an entire set of problems that are really unrelated.
Yesterday was one of those days.
So, when Craig got home he called his mom to come over and hang out with the kids while we went out to talk. Because talking can solve most of my problems. LOL! I just don't like to talk to just anybody.
He took me to a Puerto Rican restaurant I've always wanted to try. They had live music and everybody spoke Spanish in that familiar accent that reminds me of childhood. The food reminded me of home and the happy people really made me feel better. I could tell some of the patrons were regulars because they were dancing with the waiters!! And for a brief second I felt bad that my children were not familiar with their culture. I almost got sad again just thinking about it!! LOL!
But, talking to Craig and telling him my worries helped me to see things in perspective. Some of my fears had included not finding that special friend yet. My fears about Belle's schooling. Fears about whether I spend enough time with the little ones. Whether I'm happy enough. Whether I will ever get the hang of grocery shopping and having enough of the good food for my hungry caterpillars. Etc., etc., etc. Silly female talk that just had to get out.
Honestly, I don't know how much Craig was taking in. Because I don't ever change what I have to say. But he said the right things at the right time while he enjoyed his food. He reassured me and was constantly telling me to be patient.
Patient that a special friend will come along. Seems like all my special friends live 3-4 hours away!!
Patient that I would see all the progress that Belle has made. She really has. I just sometimes forget to see the forest from the trees. Actually, I don't think I know what a forest looks like because I'm so busy examining every little leaf!!
Patient that this school year will be just as successful. Patient with myself to not expect perfection.
Patience ....... that's a very hard virtue for me.
And so when I got home, I was still thinking about everything he said but also wishing I had someone to hang out with or call or just be whatever. Why do I have to be such a social creature? I mean Craig has no need to have friends. He enjoys them but he doesn't pine away with missing them. And my Anna and Sophia are the same. They are just happy to be home and just be.
Isabelle and I are birds of the same feather. And I sooooo understand her struggles. And I was thinking about how I was going to raise this precious child ... when I visited Blair's blog.
And all of a sudden I saw how silly I was being. Just seeing pictures of Sr. Mary Rebekah made me want to stay home and just be the best mom ever. It reminded me that the goal for my children isn't academic success but eternal happiness. That it didn't matter how many friends they had, so long as they were quality friendships.
I think the reason I love reading blogs so much is because they keep me in touch with precious friends who have touched my life so dearly. I'm just having to learn that I can't see these friends on a daily basis.
Its interesting that I can TOTALLY accept the separation a young women must go through to become a consecrated sister. Of course they need to not be of this world. And yet, those reunions with long ago friends must be so sweet. BUT, I struggle with the idea of myself being separated from dear friends. I want the ability to see them on a daily basis sometimes!!! LOL!
I've cherished all the friends who have visited this summer. But it can't last. I have to come down from the mountain top. Back to regular life. Which isn't so bad. Its just so ordinary.
But that's where real life has to be lived, in the ordinary. And hopefully, I can remember that all year and teach that to my children. Because while they don't ever want parties to end when someone is visiting, neither do I when I'm visiting with a dear friend. Sometimes, going back to the ordinary is the hardest. How hard it must have been for Peter, James and John after being on the mountain with Jesus!!! I'd want to set up camp, too!
All this to say, my sinusitis is doing better, my mood is leveling off, Craig is grocery shopping this morning (what a saint), and I'm still learning to accept the ordinary. I'm going to really try to focus on the beauty of simplicity and quietness. And on the need to accept where I'm at right now. And thinking of the sisters is a great mental image for me.
This post will also be read often as Craig leaves in a week for a longer than normal trip. I won't be able to reach out and touch him as often as I need to. An opportunity to rely on the only one who can hold me up, my Lord. If only I could remember that daily! Hourly even!
Lest you think I'm unappreciative of the wonderful day yesterday was, I do remember some tidbits that were great. The kids had a tea party complete with sugar cubes. They've been spoiled and now consider sugar cubes a necessity for a bonafide tea party.
The kids are still asking for school! So far, everyone is enjoying their work. I'm working on a daily schedule for all the kids. I think I've finished Belle's. I just need a list with an order of subjects so there is more regularity to our days. School goes smoother when everyone knows what to do next. I've even color coded the subjects with either green (meaning go ahead without me) or red (meaning stop and do with me). I did this last year and our days flowed better. Unfortunately, it took me 4 schedules before I found the one that worked for us. Hopefully, this schedule won't need too many revisions!!
I was able to relax in a nice, clean home. I've been feeling stressed about the state of my home. I've even been attending home management meetings once a month. I don't know if they helped in terms of making me a better housekeeper (I'm not all that bad actually, its more like I'm a perfectionist), but the meetings have helped me to realize things about myself. One thing I've come to see is that I'm a perfectionist. Also, I'm juggling alot of plates.
And, so, instead of waiting until baby arrives, Craig has gotten me some weekly help. Thursday I was able to focus on being a mother and teacher without worrying about also keeping house. I was able to play UNO with Sophia after school work was done. I started a pot of chicken noodle soup around 2pm. I was able to just unwind and be with the kids instead of running off to catch up on the hundreds of things that always seem to be calling for me.
I am thankful. And I pray that I grow in patience. The good Lord hears my prayers and has seen to it that another little one joins our family so I can continue to practice this virtue I pray for so often!!! Baby Smith is growing and thriving and doesn't seem to require any sleep!! ;-/
Now if only I could get back that email I sent off to my consultant!!
********************
Here's a link to a video Dominican Joy: Live! that I've watched too many times!! While I am so happy with the vocation God has called me to, I still find that many of the things the sisters say speak to my heart and apply to me.
Quoting one sister (who was quoting of my favorite saints):
"If you are what you should be, you will set the world on fire."
-St. Catherine of Sienna
This will be my motto for this year!!
I encourage you to watch it!! Like I said, I watch it often and its amazing all the ideas I get for my little domestic church and way of life. Maybe one day I should be so lucky to have a daughter led to this wonderful order! My love for the Dominicans dates back to graduate school when I first met Fr. Cessario. He prayed over Isabelle when she was a little baby (because she started attending classes with me when she was 3 weeks old!!) and wondered whether her being in his classes would affect her vocation (as a Dominican). Who knows?!?
Gotta go. My wonderful husband just invited my parents and parent-in-laws for BBQ. He knows me so well and knows when I need a little party!! LOL!!
God bless you this weekend!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Throw-away Thursday
Schoolroom still in progress ....
LOTS and LOTS of bags have been thrown away. I finally have parted with the girls' math workbooks. How many did I have? Well, let's see ...... kinder, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, kinder, 1st, 2nd, and kinder. I don't know why I was saving them. Maybe for their ACT's or SAT's?!? LOL!
Honestly, they represented hours and hours of hard work. And math is one of my favorite homeschooling subjects. I better stop talking about it before I go dig them back out of the trash bags!!
I'm still purging! I'm happy to say that progress has been made. Here are pics of the new desk and bookshelf. They are so much happier now that they have found a home!
The top portion is holding coloring books, crayons, scissors, colored pencils, envelopes, writing paper, stickers, tape and stapler. Also handy is the cd player and dictionaries. The drawer holds ALL of our flashcards (state/capital, number, +,-,*,/, UNO cards, phonograms, Greek/Latin root words, Latina Christiana I cards .... I think that's it so far).
The bottom half holds ALL the music cd's needed for this school year. Sophia, Anna and Isabelle each have their cd's they will listen to for music. Although, they will end up listening to each other's as well. Kolbe will just be ahead of the game thanks to his big sisters. Also, extra school supplies like crayons, glue, pencils, etc. I'm hoping they don't touch them. If so, I'll have to move my stockpile.
Books on the new shelf. Scary how its already more than half full!! LOL!
Finally, my favorite change is the removal of Catherine's toys from the schoolroom. I don't mind if she plays in here, I just can't store her toys in the schoolroom anymore. I cleared the closet space underneath the stairs and turned it into the toy closet. Now, all baby toys, tinker toys, etc. go in there. She's happy to have all her books handy on the little shelf right next to the sofa chairs. I've had to stop SEVERAL times during my purging to read my munchkin a book. I'm glad she gets the point!!
In case you should think I'm nesting, I'm not. I do this EVERY summer. I have to reorganize and throw away stuff from our schoolroom annually. I'm always amazed how much cr*p we accumalate in one year. Now I understand why school hallways look the way they do during the summer!! LOL!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Books on the Brain
Since we're talking about books, just thought I'd share my recent EBAY win. I'm feeling a little bit giddy. These books arrived this morning. And I just won another bid today for another 24 Landmark children's history books.
I'm spending a good part of my day reorganizing my bookshelves. I might even take a peek or two at some of these books.
Next week I'm heading down to the main library for their annual mega book sale. Is there a novena or patron saint of books I should look into? LOL!
I guess gone are the days of searching for books at Half Price and other used book shops. I've entered a new era.To make it even more fun, I've got Craig addicted on my EBAY bids. Is it because he likes history books so much? Nope. LOL!!!!
Its because he likes to use this feature on EBAY. Anytime I REALLY want to win a bid he sets up this sniper for me. So far, no losses!! He gets a thrill out of stealing a bid from under someone's nose in the last 4 milliseconds. I don't care how it happens, so long as it does!! LOL!
Okay, gotta go organize my books. ;-)
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Random thoughts
I LOVED Jennie's post on nothing and thought I'd do the same!
Often, what keeps me away from posting is the idea of linking and going into details. So, no links and details. Just teasers! LOL!
First, we replaced our washer with a Frigidaire 8000. She's a front loader. I won't go into details (see above) or the merits or compare top vs. front loaders. I like front loaders and have made peace with the fact that her door needs to stay open and that each night she has to be wiped down so she's completely dry. I figure most people have pets and give them baths. I can wipe down my washer. She's staying healthy and NOT getting mold.
We got a washer in black! That was exciting! I have a HUGE, HUGE think for black furniture. My theory is it can't be ruined with markers. Even if some little human manages to get a spot on something, it can always be painted over. Well, I was thrilled to be able to carry that love over into my washer! Of course, now I don't have a matching set. But when the dryer breaks, it will be swapped out with black, too! And I welcome that black sharpie to try and leave a mark!!
********************************
Also, rumor has it that our church, when it builds a school in a few years, has invited the Nashville Dominicans to run it!! At first I was elated. But now the hamsters are running inside and I'm in a state of confusion. Do I really want to be a school mom? Homework? Car pooling? No more time for swimming or piano?
Why did they have to invite such a wonderful order to run it? I can feel my resolve wearing thin and the school isn't even built yet!!
What made me laugh was when someone suggested maybe the homeschoolers would send their children and then have lots of homeschooling moms teach!!
NO WAY!!!! If I'm paying to have my kids educated, I'm not getting up every morning to go teach someone elses!!! I can barely handle homework assignments and lessons plans for my kids. I have NO DESIRE to have a class of kids. Ever since college I've always sworn I would never be a school teacher. Every Sunday when I teach my CCD class (and they are good kids) I am so thankful its only for an hour.
I don't know why I don't enjoy teaching little kids. That sounds awful considering I'm a homeschooler. LOL! But I really don't care for teaching others. Probably because I don't keep things simple. I find it exhausting. I'd much rather teach college students with whom I can sit around and discuss. I think I'd make an awful teacher. Parents would hate me. I don't believe in busy work or workbooks. I don't think kids should have to fill out tests to prove they know something. In fact, all the teachers would hate me too!!
Also, I think kids should be outside playing ..... ALOT!! I'd be giving my kids a morning 30 min. recess, a 30-45 min. lunch recess, and another recess in the afternoon. I would hate prepping them for those standardized tests. And I would probably have a complaint with some of the texts required. Not because I think the Nashville Dominicans would pick bad books, but because I think more time should be spent reading aloud to kids and letting kids read silently. And because there are just sometimes too many "textbooks." Also, many parents who send their kids to schools seem to think lots of homework is a good mark of a good school/teacher. I think the truly good teacher should be able to teach it all without sending home any assignments.
To think I would stop homeschooling just to start teaching! LOL!
However, if I did teach, I could have my classroom decked out in rain gutter bookshelves!! LOL!
No, if my kids ever go to school, I'm using that time to go to daily mass, volunteer at different agencies, take naps, keep my house perfectly clean, have lunch with other moms, and go to the spa. But since I homeschool, I do none of the above!! Well, I do clean now and then. And we are working on eventually getting to daily mass everyday. Right now its sporadic.
That was a long random thought!
Have a great week ya'll! And don't forget to google Frigidaire and Nashville Dominicans. I'm feeling too lazy too link. And my apologies to all you wonderful "former college students" who have ruined my career in teaching little kids (other than my own). I'd link to you, too, but many of you are in my sidebar already!
Often, what keeps me away from posting is the idea of linking and going into details. So, no links and details. Just teasers! LOL!
First, we replaced our washer with a Frigidaire 8000. She's a front loader. I won't go into details (see above) or the merits or compare top vs. front loaders. I like front loaders and have made peace with the fact that her door needs to stay open and that each night she has to be wiped down so she's completely dry. I figure most people have pets and give them baths. I can wipe down my washer. She's staying healthy and NOT getting mold.
We got a washer in black! That was exciting! I have a HUGE, HUGE think for black furniture. My theory is it can't be ruined with markers. Even if some little human manages to get a spot on something, it can always be painted over. Well, I was thrilled to be able to carry that love over into my washer! Of course, now I don't have a matching set. But when the dryer breaks, it will be swapped out with black, too! And I welcome that black sharpie to try and leave a mark!!
********************************
Also, rumor has it that our church, when it builds a school in a few years, has invited the Nashville Dominicans to run it!! At first I was elated. But now the hamsters are running inside and I'm in a state of confusion. Do I really want to be a school mom? Homework? Car pooling? No more time for swimming or piano?
Why did they have to invite such a wonderful order to run it? I can feel my resolve wearing thin and the school isn't even built yet!!
What made me laugh was when someone suggested maybe the homeschoolers would send their children and then have lots of homeschooling moms teach!!
NO WAY!!!! If I'm paying to have my kids educated, I'm not getting up every morning to go teach someone elses!!! I can barely handle homework assignments and lessons plans for my kids. I have NO DESIRE to have a class of kids. Ever since college I've always sworn I would never be a school teacher. Every Sunday when I teach my CCD class (and they are good kids) I am so thankful its only for an hour.
I don't know why I don't enjoy teaching little kids. That sounds awful considering I'm a homeschooler. LOL! But I really don't care for teaching others. Probably because I don't keep things simple. I find it exhausting. I'd much rather teach college students with whom I can sit around and discuss. I think I'd make an awful teacher. Parents would hate me. I don't believe in busy work or workbooks. I don't think kids should have to fill out tests to prove they know something. In fact, all the teachers would hate me too!!
Also, I think kids should be outside playing ..... ALOT!! I'd be giving my kids a morning 30 min. recess, a 30-45 min. lunch recess, and another recess in the afternoon. I would hate prepping them for those standardized tests. And I would probably have a complaint with some of the texts required. Not because I think the Nashville Dominicans would pick bad books, but because I think more time should be spent reading aloud to kids and letting kids read silently. And because there are just sometimes too many "textbooks." Also, many parents who send their kids to schools seem to think lots of homework is a good mark of a good school/teacher. I think the truly good teacher should be able to teach it all without sending home any assignments.
To think I would stop homeschooling just to start teaching! LOL!
However, if I did teach, I could have my classroom decked out in rain gutter bookshelves!! LOL!
No, if my kids ever go to school, I'm using that time to go to daily mass, volunteer at different agencies, take naps, keep my house perfectly clean, have lunch with other moms, and go to the spa. But since I homeschool, I do none of the above!! Well, I do clean now and then. And we are working on eventually getting to daily mass everyday. Right now its sporadic.
That was a long random thought!
Have a great week ya'll! And don't forget to google Frigidaire and Nashville Dominicans. I'm feeling too lazy too link. And my apologies to all you wonderful "former college students" who have ruined my career in teaching little kids (other than my own). I'd link to you, too, but many of you are in my sidebar already!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Chinese Culture Reading Booklist
Children’s Chinese Stories and Tales
*The Story About Ping (Marjorie Flack)
*Empty Pot (Demi)
*Tikki Tikki Tembo (Arlene Mosel)
*Beyond the
*Dim Sum for Everyone (Grace Lin)
*Daisy Comes Home (Jan Brett)
*Fortune Cookie Fortunes (Grace Lin)
*The City of
*Carlos Digs to
*Marco Polo:
*Imperial
*The Yangtze (Julia Waterlow)
*The Panda Book (Levine)
A Little Tiger in the Chinese Night (Song Nan Zhang)
The Children of China: an Artist's Journey (Song Nan Zhang)
Yikang's Day: From Dawn to Dusk in a
Awakening the Dragon: The dragon Boat Festival (Arlene Chan)
Celebrating Chinese Year (Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith)
Chin Chiang and the Dragon's Dance (Ian Wallace)
Dragonwings (Laurence Yep)
The Legend of the Panda (Linda Granfield)
Marco Polo: A Journey through
The
Mooncakes and Hungry Ghosts Festivals of
Moon Festival (Ching Yeung Russell)
Red Eggs & Dragon Boats (Carol Stepanchuk)
Three Monks, No Water (Ting-Xing Ye)
The Warlord's Puzzle (Virginia Pilegard) -Famous story of Tanagrams
*Kites : Magic Wishes That Fly Up to The Sky
*The Emperor’s New Clothes: A Tale Set in
*Dragons and Fantastic Creatures
*The Greatest Treasure
* These are the books we’ve actually read and enjoyed. The others sound wonderful but were not available at our library. I hope to find The Warlord’s Puzzle since it’s a story about tanagrams. I also didn't include the books that looked more like reference books. I tried to stay with living books, stories and tales. But the resource books were very helpful. We just enjoyed the story/picture books more.
In January we will be traveling to ...... Turkey!!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Classical Music for Kids: New Finds
This year Isabelle is studying the Baroque period in classical music. While our syllabus calls for listening to cd’s, I find this a very dry and boring way to experience music. Especially if this is the ONLY way a child is becoming familiar with classical music.
I stumbled across these great DVD’s based on the classical kids cd’s. We’ve just finished watching Classical Kids: Mr. Bach Comes to Call. Even 4 yo Kolbe sat and watched the whole show. I’ve already reserved the following:
Bach’s Fight for Freedom
Beethoven Lives Upstairs
Mozart’s The Magic Flute Story
Handel’s Last Chance
*We also enjoy watching musicals. Again, its great music and so refreshing to see how films used to be great works of art. So much work goes into the choreography and music. We own many. Our favorites include The Music Man, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,
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