tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80065235851884672112024-03-14T07:45:47.781-06:00Day In Day OutMelissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.comBlogger301125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-42824555223430057622011-02-13T15:45:00.000-07:002011-02-13T15:45:46.272-07:00This Blog is MovingI hope you'll join me in moving to my new site. The new blog is entitled <a href="http://halfdozenmama.com/">Half Dozen Mama</a>. The website is http://HalfDozenMama.com. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtr4cVBVm3mjIUOFhdeg9Lk6xFBL5V9T7n7HLY2N-cYe_McwJSfcOEJNpNgA7TR5Ibg1W8WEo6gwdXJFTA63HpibM90FY0qKsPCPe41hAKz9C2AQ8wSTwrJegt9JkA7aBniC3oMZpFCfYK/s1600/HDMButtonLink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtr4cVBVm3mjIUOFhdeg9Lk6xFBL5V9T7n7HLY2N-cYe_McwJSfcOEJNpNgA7TR5Ibg1W8WEo6gwdXJFTA63HpibM90FY0qKsPCPe41hAKz9C2AQ8wSTwrJegt9JkA7aBniC3oMZpFCfYK/s1600/HDMButtonLink.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Well, I've hinted at it, but it's official now. I've been creating a new blog home with a new address (self-hosted domain and all) and big ol' makeover. My heart and focus will still be the same, but just improved. And WAY prettier on your computer screen. I did all of the moving and creative work myself, so you can blame me and email me if you have any suggestions to make things easier. <br />
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Right now, I don't think I am able to move the feed for those of you who subscribe via Google Followers. But I'd love it if you just jump over to the new site and click on the RSS logo on the top right and sign up to get the new feed in your Google reader, or however you'd prefer.Also, grab one of my new buttons on the right sidebar to include on your blog. And if you may want to change your blog roll if you have kept Day In Day Out on it. But I'd love you to add <a href="http://halfdozenmama.com/">Half Dozen Mama</a> to your list. <br />
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I will be transferring the majority of the content on this blog to the new site, but please allow me a few days <u>after this post's date</u> to get it all organized over there. I have to post this final post BEFORE I can move stuff. Then I won't be able to access this blog any longer. Any links that are out and about should, in theory, now link to the new site.<br />
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So hop over now to <a href="http://halfdozenmama.com/">Half Dozen Mama</a> and check it out. Go ahead and sign up to get the RSS feed, or you can <a href="http://halfdozenmama.com/aboutme/subscribe-via-email/">sign up to receive posts via email</a>. And if things look a little wacky, say a prayer for me and try again in a day. You can also get even updates on my new <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HalfDozenMama?sk=app_4949752878">Facebook page</a>. I'm even on Twitter now at <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/halfdozenmama">@HalfDozenMama</a>.<br />
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I will have some really cool giveaways to celebrate the new site, so you'll want to be sure to meet me there for all the giveaway goodness. I have loved my 3 years of blogging here at Day In Day Out. You are the best readers anywhere and I am looking forward to continuing this journey with you at <a href="http://halfdozenmama.com/">Half Dozen Mama</a>.Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-70022305640404114212011-02-07T22:04:00.000-07:002011-02-07T22:04:42.728-07:00Secretive Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77e0MQ3VZpF9HDsZxbO4Scra9ql7zHxgPKRiWOsTSECbYZ9dqb9AMz4RG-a4IVr-p7AOc_B1KC6riLLJp9VEJDniE9OmsAWFp4RGO7RizZb7K69HY9Y6_gOpFwrFqJk8sDvZCPUUohneN/s1600/secretpugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77e0MQ3VZpF9HDsZxbO4Scra9ql7zHxgPKRiWOsTSECbYZ9dqb9AMz4RG-a4IVr-p7AOc_B1KC6riLLJp9VEJDniE9OmsAWFp4RGO7RizZb7K69HY9Y6_gOpFwrFqJk8sDvZCPUUohneN/s320/secretpugs.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br />
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I just had to pop by quickly and let you all know that in spite of doing not much more than reviews for the last month or so, I really have NOT forgotten the heart of my blog. To the contrary, I have some fun and exciting things in the works. A couple incredible giveaways and something even more exciting, but shhhh! That's all I can share for now. Promise, it will be worth the wait!Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-59602330408073706792011-02-04T10:15:00.001-07:002011-02-04T10:15:04.359-07:00Roman Town (a review)<p>History hasn’t been high on the list this year in our little homeschool, so when we got the chance to review <strong><a href="http://dig-itgames.com/index.php" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Roman Town by Dig-It! Games</a></strong>, I breathed a sigh of relief from the we-can’t-squeeze-history-into-our-schedule guilt. A computer game to the rescue!</p> <p><img height="287" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Dig-IT%20Games/romantown.jpg" width="444" /></p> <h2>An Overview</h2> <p>Touted as the “Premier Archaeology Computer Game for Kids,” <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Roman Town</strong></a> strives to make learning fun. Here’s what their site has to say:</p> <blockquote> <p><em><font size="3">“Founded by a professional archaeologist and teacher, Dig-It! Games promotes learning through active discovery and the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills in young learners. Dig-It! Games presents authentic and accurate historical information that conforms to the curriculum mandates and Standards of Learning of many states. Dig-It! Games creates “hands-on” learning games that can be played at home, used as course supplements, and adapt easily to the classroom.”</font></em></p> </blockquote> <h2><em><font size="3"><font style="font-weight: bold">Our Experience</font></font></em></h2> <p>My kids enjoy computer games, so I knew they’d be keen to play. Set-up is easy and with a little background on how the game works, it’s easy to get started on the digging in the dirt for artifacts.  </p> <p>The graphics are nice and really give the feel of being on an archeological dig, right down to the very tools you use. The things you uncover only lead to greater understanding of the Roman times and culture. For instance, a knife that is found is greenish in color. You learn that it is bronze and would have oxidized to that color. Or when you find glass, you’ll discover that the Romans were expert glass blowers and even had glass windows. Who knew? Not me.</p> <p>My children enjoyed the game with only one complaint—the lengthy bits of information given throughout the game must be read; there’s no voice behind <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Roman Town</strong></a>. I really wish there was a narrator so I could be sure my kids were taking it all in. It’s too easy to play a game and just get back to the ‘doing’ part of it and skip the learning part of it. Also, there’s no feature that let’s the parent see exactly what parts of the game have been done, or how the child has scored on some of the ‘tests.’</p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold"><img height="352" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Dig-IT%20Games/Tablinumcopy.jpg" width="441" /></font></h2> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">My Opinion </font></h2> <p>There are many aspects of this game that parents and homeschoolers will love:</p> <ul> <li>Kids learn about Roman culture, society & history </li> <li>Problem solving skills are put into action </li> <li>Kids learn what an archeologists does </li> <li>Vocabulary and knowledge is put to the test within the game </li> <li>Accurate historical information and authentic artifacts </li> </ul> <p>To utilize on their own, I do think <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Roman Town</strong></a> would be best for a child ten or older. I think it’s just a lot of information for younger children to read on their own. But for a family with younger children, it would make a great family game, provided you can all sit down to the computer together. What a fun supplement to your history studies!</p> <p>I like this game and think it has a great place in the vast market of educational games. I think there’s great value for homeschoolers who might be studying Latin or want to tie this in with their historical studies of the Roman era. It would also make a great supplement to any unit study on archeology.</p> <p>You can see a <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>video walkthrough</strong></a> on the main page of Dig-It! Games. Go check it out and see if it’s something that could bring some fun and variety to your family’s learning. </p> <p><img height="356" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Dig-IT%20Games/visualofgamescene.jpg" width="446" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783744/">The Review Crew blog</a></em></strong><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=73570&type=thumbnail" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">more reviews</a></em></strong><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em> of this product.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" height="147" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Dig-IT%20Games/DigIt_Logo_small.jpg" width="203" /></strong></p> <p><strong>Product: <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Roman Town interactive educational game</a></strong></p> <p><strong>Company: <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dig-It! Games</a></strong></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong>Description:</strong> Archeological computer game for kids (and grown ups too) on CD-ROM for Windows Vista/XP/2000; coming soon for Mac.</p> <p><em><strong>Ages:</strong> 8 to 88; must be able to read well or have a parent sit with them</em></p> <p><strong>Price:</strong> <strong><font color="#c4001e">SALE just for TOS readers!</font></strong> You can use the coupon code <strong>TOS2011</strong> to get Roman Town for <strong>$19.96</strong>!  HURRY, it expires on <strong>February 21, 2011</strong>.  <em>(The usual price for Roman Town is $39.95, so this TOS2011 coupon is a really great deal!)</em></p> <p><em><strong>More Products:</strong> <a href="http://dig-itgames.com/index.php/buy-computer-games-roman-town" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Roman Town Educator’s manual</strong></a> </em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew"><img height="58" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" border="0" /></a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-63057897018102025612011-01-31T17:06:00.001-07:002011-01-31T17:06:52.173-07:00Times Alive (a review)<p>You’ve heard me say it too many times at this point, but one of our main goals this homeschool year is to strengthen some foundational aspects of our children’s education. Learning math facts is a KEY part of that. And for some reason, multiplication facts can be the hardest to really commit to memory. </p> <p>As part of <strong>The Old Schoolhouse Review Crew</strong>, I was chosen to review <strong><a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Times Alive</a></strong> by <a href="https://www.citycreek.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>City Creek Press</strong></a>. Although we’ve been doing lots of math reviews lately, I have been really happy to offer my children all the variety. And <strong><a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Times Alive</a> </strong>is unique, because it doesn’t feel so much like school, but more like watching cartoons. My kids are always game for cartoons!</p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Math/sot.jpg" /></p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">An Overview</font></h2> <p>Created by an educational pioneer Judy Liautaud, <strong><a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Times Alive</a> </strong>works where other methods of rote memorization have failed. What sets it apart are the visual images, stories and songs. Colorful and clever numbers and stories help these boring math facts come to life and ‘stick’ to the brain. The program won’t teach the concept of multiplication, but it will put some ‘glue’ on the times tables that just seem impossible to memorize.</p> <p>There are loads of samples you can see on the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TimesTablestheFunWay#p/u/4/F35_ZRpRzJI" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>City Creek Press YouTube Channel</strong></a>, so sit down with your child and take a gander. I think you’ll like it. Here’s one below:</p> <div class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:46d2fa12-8a30-41c1-8a06-204ef6d60631" style="padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; float: none; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px"><div id="f8c80d91-c13c-4a5e-a2df-d7e54885bb27" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TimesTablestheFunWay#p/u/4/F35_ZRpRzJI" target="_new"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUdOmmEWRSI/AAAAAAAABKs/pB1f15ZBLlk/video6421979881ee%5B144%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('f8c80d91-c13c-4a5e-a2df-d7e54885bb27'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/F35_ZRpRzJI?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/F35_ZRpRzJI?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="width:448px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">A sample video of Times Alive</div></div> <p> </p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">Our Experience</font></h2> <p>We received the downloadable version of Times Alive, which just meant we didn’t have to wait for the mail to deliver the CD-ROM. It was easy to get up and running on the kids Vista computer.</p> <p>My children like the program and are always eager for the chance to use the computer during school time. The stories and images are well-thought out and told in a memorable way. I do think the style of the program is a bit more simplistic than many media-savvy kids are used to nowadays, but that doesn’t mean they won’t like them. Just whip out some flashcards and see what they’d rather do. Times Alive will be the pick any day of the week, I assure you.</p> <p>The child I had focusing on <strong><a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Times Alive</a> </strong>liked it and showed improvement. She was a little confused at times what lesson she was supposed to do next. The program gives you a menu with lots of options and it was a little ‘busy’ (even for me). But with a little help, it’s not hard to get the hang of. Also, it’s important that the child log in with the <em>exact same name</em> each time, or all their work will be lost. However, you can have many children using the one-time purchase software, so this should be a great value for larger families.</p> <p>I do think it helped my daughter improve her speed and accuracy of multiplication facts. This isn’t a watch-it-once-and-you’re-done kind of program. Each lesson really should be watched multiple times to get it down. Fortunately, it’s not just a passive learning experience—there’s lots of practice and interaction built into the program. Also, lots of tools for the parent (or teacher) to see how and what the child is doing.</p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Math/01.jpg" /></p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">My Opinion</font></h2> <p>I like <a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Times Alive</strong></a> and think it could be just the thing for many families who are tired of the tedious task of memorizing times tables. I think it’s ideal for helping a child to master their multiplication facts, especially if they’re struggling. I think ‘right brained’ kids in particular, can have a hard time with this. This product is ideal for making math memorable for the more visual, creative learner. I’m so glad we had the chance to use the software version of the product—which can pretty much run without daily oversight by the parent. I know I plan to use it with the many upcoming creative minds at my house.  </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><font size="4">Visit </font><a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783695/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><font size="4">The Review Crew blog</font></a></em></strong><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em><font size="4"> to find links to </font><a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=71543&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow"><font size="4">more reviews</font></a></em></strong><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em><font size="4"> of this product.</font></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Product: <a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Times Alive</strong></a> software</strong></p> <p><strong>Company: <a href="http://www.citycreek.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">City Creek Press</a> <a href="http://www.CityCreekPress.com">www.CityCreekPress.com</a></strong></p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" height="53" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Math/index_05.gif" width="187" /></p> <p><strong>Video Samples:</strong> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TimesTablestheFunWay#p/u/4/F35_ZRpRzJI" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>City Creek’s YouTube channel</strong></a></p> <p><em><strong>Ages:</strong> Any age needing to learn/master multiplication</em></p> <p><strong>Price:</strong> $44.95 for download; $48.95 for CD-ROM </p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><em></em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><em><strong>Other products: </strong><a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/25.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Addition the Fun Way</strong></a> (many products) and many more <a href="http://www.citycreek.com/category-s/24.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Times Alive products</strong></a> including books, workbooks, posters, teacher’s manual, audio & more</em></p> <p><em><strong>Basic System Requirements:</strong> </em>Windows 98 SE, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, AND also works on Macintosh OS 8.6 or higher or OS X. See the <a href="http://www.citycreek.com/Times-Alive-CD-ROM-p/sot.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>website</strong></a> for more specific machine requirements.</p> <p> <br /></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew"><img height="58" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" border="0" /></a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-23080529020523590272011-01-28T18:45:00.001-07:002011-01-28T19:14:17.606-07:00TenMarks Math (a review)<p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="103" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Math/tenmarks.png" width="274" border="0" /></p> <p>When I first saw the promotions for <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a>, I was dying to try it.  Homeschool moms have strange desires involving new curricula and the latest programs and book deliveries from UPS. It takes lots of willpower to abstain from buying everything. Well, when I saw my name on the list of reviewers for <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a>—it made my month! I was thrilled! Such is the exciting life of a homeschool mom .</p> <h2>Overview</h2> <p><a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> is an online math program that can be used as a whole math curriculum or a supplement. And it’s not just for homeschoolers, there are whole schools using the program with parents putting it to use after school also. However, I used the homeschool portion of the program for this review with full access to all the benefits. Each program is personalized to the child and geared to line up with state standards. Here’s the great stuff about <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> :</p> <p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" src="http://www.tenmarks.com/passive/images/small-tick.png" border="0" />  Intelligent Worksheets</p> <p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" src="http://www.tenmarks.com/passive/images/small-tick.png" border="0" />  Video Lessons and Hints</p> <p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" src="http://www.tenmarks.com/passive/images/small-tick.png" border="0" />   Practice and Tests</p> <p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" src="http://www.tenmarks.com/passive/images/small-tick.png" border="0" />   Rewards and Games</p> <p>They currently offer <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/lesson-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>programs</strong></a> for 3rd-8th grade, plus Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Geometry. You can even do an <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/asdoAssessmentInit.action" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>assessment</strong></a> to determine where your child should begin. </p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>I received the opportunity to use <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> with two children. I decided on my 9 and 11 year old daughters. I wasn’t concerned about trying to correlate it with our current math program. In fact, because we are working so hard on the basics this year, these girls had been doing 2 lessons a day in their current math books. So we pared back to one regular lesson and then the <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> daily lesson. They liked this variety. And I think it made math a bit more multisensory.</p> <p>The parent has a lot of behind the scenes controls within the <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> program. You can either choose the grade level or give the student an assessment to determine where they should be placed. After a grade level is determined, you can order the tracks (topics) of learning to suit your needs. </p> <p>There’s really a lot of information at your fingertips to know exactly what material is coming up next. This allows you to change the order of things, delete them or correlate lessons with another math resource. Because I’m a tweaker of curricula, I really liked this and think it gave loads of added value to the program.</p> <p align="left"><em><font style="background-color: #ffffff" color="#000000"></font></em></p> <p align="left"><strong><em><font style="background-color: #ffffff" color="#000000">Here’s a small snapshot of </font></em><em><font style="background-color: #ffffff" color="#000000">some upcoming topics </font></em></strong></p> <p align="left"><strong><em><font style="background-color: #ffffff" color="#000000">on </font></em><em><font style="background-color: #ffffff" color="#000000">DayBreak’s learning track. {see below}.</font></em></strong></p> <p align="left"><a><img title="Overall tracks 2" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="332" alt="Overall tracks 2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxNGSBsTI/AAAAAAAABIg/BDYrH4uTHCc/Overall%20tracks%202_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="238" border="0" /></a></p> <p align="left"><em></em></p> <p> <br clear="all" /><em><strong>Then within each of those tracks, you can click to see exactly what material will be covered. Here is a list of subtopics within the Measurement track {see below}.</strong></em></p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxNxgOIeI/AAAAAAAABJc/GbD6m5qoIAs/s1600-h/measurements%20track%5B1%5D.jpg"><img title="measurements track" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="281" alt="measurements track" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxOZOhhZI/AAAAAAAABJg/EbbveQPlzro/measurements%20track_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="415" border="0" /></a><em></em></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><em></em></p> <p align="left"><em><strong>And you can even dig one step further to see samples of the types of questions within that track {see below}.</strong></em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxOzX-frI/AAAAAAAABJs/f7r9hah2Okw/s1600-h/measurement%20questions%5B1%5D.jpg"><img title="measurement questions" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="179" alt="measurement questions" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxPVd94xI/AAAAAAAABJ0/yZ9cR_nB57Q/measurement%20questions_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="427" border="0" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>In addition to all the control I have on the website, I also receive weekly emails with the child’s progress on the previous week’s lessons, as well as their assignments for the upcoming week with the due date. It helped to make the program feel like it was alive and waiting for us, rather than something on our computer that we could just forget to do. {Yes, we sometimes really do forget about things like that.} I need a little poking and prodding, as do my children. But you can put the program on “<em>pause</em>” should you go on vacation or need a break. </p> <p>The thing my kids love about the lessons is that they are short and to the point. <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> got its name for a reason---10 questions and the homework is done, but the lesson includes a video to watch, as well as 3 hints per problem if needed. The video is a white board with a tutor’s voice explaining things. When they are done, the parent can see the child’s score, how many hints they received and whether or not they viewed the video. You can also see a snapshot of your child’s progress at any time. Green means they are doing well; yellow means they need some more practice with a concept. </p> <p><strong>Here’s a peek at a progress report for DayBreak {see below}.</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxQZnNYtI/AAAAAAAABJI/C7H0IxLexNQ/s1600-h/sophia%2010marks%20shot.jpg"><img title="sophia 10marks shot" style="border-right: 0px; padding-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="246" alt="sophia 10marks shot" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUNxQ7JppfI/AAAAAAAABJQ/ujtsgyCPXvc/sophia%2010marks%20shot_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="422" border="0" /></a></p> <p>It was easy for my girls to use and they liked an opportunity to do their math lessons on the computer. When their lesson was done, they immediately saw their score and were given the chance to re-do problems they got wrong. If it was right the 2nd time around, they got credit for it. Of course, I peeked in on them often and made sure they were using scratch paper to do the work of the problems. They also loved the games they earned at certain points in their progress. You can even set up an extra incentive as a reward. We didn’t, but it’s a nice motivator for sure. </p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">My Opinion</font></h2> <p>I really like so many things about <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a>. It’s easy for me to use, almost like having a math tutor helping keep me and my kids on track. The girls enjoyed it and learned from it. After this review, it will continue to be on their list of things to do and I don’t think I’ll hear any complaints. Although we never had reason to contact their customer service, I heard great comments from other reviewers about how responsive the Boston-based company was to any issues.</p> <p>While there was lots to like, there were just a few features of <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> that I didn’t care for. Some of the speakers had a foreign accent which made it harder to understand the lesson. There did seem to be a variety of ‘voices’ doing the lessons, so it wasn’t like a child was always stuck with a teacher they couldn’t understand. </p> <p>Also, the answers are all multiple choice. This wasn’t so much a problem for my girls, but I have another child (who shall remain nameless) who would use this to skate through math and make guesses and fix them afterwards. He won’t be getting a chance to try it.  </p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p>I’m not sure if I could use <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> as my sole math curriculum, but I do think it’s an ideal supplement to any math program or perfect for practice over the summer. Often using another type of resource is just the thing to help a child gain mastery of a topic. I think <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> is a welcome addition to supplement any child’s math education. I’m so happy I was blessed to review it.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Visit </em></strong><a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783666/" rel="nofollow"><strong><em>The Review Crew blog</em></strong></a><strong><em> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=69371&type=thumbnail" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">more reviews</a></em></strong><strong><em></em></strong><strong><em> of this product.</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Product: <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> online math curriculum</strong></p> <p><strong>Company: <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a> <a href="http://www.TenMarks.com">www.TenMarks.com</a></strong></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong>Description:</strong> <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/video-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>How it Works video</strong></a><strong> </strong>from<strong> TenMarks</strong></p> <p><em><strong>Ages:</strong> 3rd grade to high school </em></p> <p><strong>Price per child:</strong> $10 a month; $49 for 6 months’ $89 for 12 months</p> <p><em><strong>Trial:</strong> You can get a<strong> </strong><a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/signup/signup-trial" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>FREE TRIAL</strong></a> of <a href="http://www.tenmarks.com/tmother/homeschooler-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>TenMarks</strong></a></em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew"><img height="58" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" border="0" /></a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-57645471044487344122011-01-27T13:24:00.001-07:002011-01-27T13:36:25.147-07:00Sweet Motivation<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUHUgM-54sI/AAAAAAAABH0/TgEU19Ab_TI/s1600-h/MP900439245%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="chocolate chips" border="0" alt="chocolate chips" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TUHUgtfSDcI/AAAAAAAABH4/2HwrOPmupMI/MP900439245_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="250" /></a>I had a small bowl of chocolate chips on my desk after lunch today. Night Owl was bent out of shape about math, so I tossed a few his way after he <em>finally</em> got a right answer. His attitude sweetened before the dark chocolate had time to melt in his mouth. We took several of those motivating pieces of sweetness and used them as math manipulatives. Math lesson improved drastically!</p> <p> </p> <p>DayBreak popped out from a math quiz and was excited to report that she’d gotten 10 out of 10 correct. Ten chocolate chips for her!</p> <p> </p> <p>Of course, word spreads quickly where good chocolate is involved and soon I had BlueMoon begging for bites. Eager to get her math lesson started and earn some delicious rewards.</p> <p> </p> <p>Little Miss Sunshine was napping through all this, but daily she talks about chocolate. “I hun-greee…I need choc’ chip.” “My tummy hurts—I need choc’ chip.” She’s like the chocolate patrol, she can even smell it on my breath. </p> <p> </p> <p>I knew we were approaching the “I’ll do anything for chocolate” moment when Eventide asked if she may have some pieces of chocolate so that while she read her Bible devotional she might experience the sweetness in her mouth that would remind her of the spiritual sweetness of the Lord. </p> <p> </p> <p>Chocolate—the motivating currency at my house. I can live with that.</p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-74485072669136905022011-01-24T21:45:00.002-07:002011-02-01T19:27:47.676-07:00A Confession on Day 99I have not been excited, motivated or very on track with our homeschooling. I know every homeschooler hits rough patches sometimes, but I’ve been here for some time now. Really since about Thanksgiving. Yes, we’ve pushed through. Yes, we still do it. But it’s sloppy. There’s no flow or momentum. I <i>feel</i> scattered. My kids <i>are</i> scattered. We’ve run into many a problem over my ten years homeschooling. I could usually tweak a little and get things back up and running. But I couldn’t quite put my finger on the problem of late. <br />
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This last weekend, I knew something had to drastically change if we were to make it through the year. So I just sat in my messy schoolroom hoping that if I touched some curriculum and moved some things around it would get better. Well, that was a start, but I still couldn’t quite reach the root of the problem.<br />
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So my friend Lisa calls me about something else. We chat for a bit and I tell her my homeschool woes. She listens. She asks me good questions. I talk a lot. She listens more. She throws out some good suggestions. I take it in and talk more. She thinks outside the box and throws out more ideas. She doesn’t judge me because I’m slacking here. She doesn’t give me any pat answers. She really listens like we all hope a friend will when we have a problem. I hate having problems I don’t have answers for. (Pride, I know.) But that’s why God gives us friends. So we can humbly ask for help and see Him meet our needs through His people. By the time I hung up the phone, I had discovered what’s wrong.<br />
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Our problem wasn’t one of wrong curricula or wondering how to teach math. Our problem was really beneath the surface—lack of self-discipline and diligence. There was too much freedom in our little homeschool. Kids were going to and fro in our big house. We had structure to our day up to a point, but then I was losing them. Literally. <br />
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So the solution—<b>sit your seat in your seat.</b> And stay there. No getting up. We will have a snack and potty and drink break. But there is nowhere you have to be until then. Doors are closed. No reading in your bedroom because you can hear your sister breathing. No wandering. Not even any hall passes. And one of the biggest distractions got unplugged—my desktop computer! No checking emails and stuff until breaks and lunch.<br />
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I also now have a BIG schedule posted on the wall <i>just for me</i>. It includes all the things I personally have to do with the children. And as each item gets done, I get to turn over the card. I can’t say why this is any different than having my planner on my desk with the same list. It’s like a larger-than-life, in-my-face checklist, but it’s working. I think big problems call for big interventions with big classroom paraphernalia! {Updated to include a picture of my giant checklist...computers are still being persnickety, so here's a link.} <br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&nou=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=CB0D3A&t=daindaou-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&asins=B003U6P65K" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <br />
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So today, our 99th day of school, was a fabulous day! We stayed on course. I stayed tuned in and kept the masses moving from subject to subject like a veteran air traffic controller on a clear day. It felt good to control what could be chaos. And it’s exciting to see the fog clear as we approach Day 100. <br />
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But more than anything, I’m thankful the Lord heard my prayers and answered me with a friend. Everyone needs someone, or several someones, to talk to when days are rough and times are hard. I’m thankful and blessed to have so many friends to listen to me. And I count it a privilege to listen to someone else’s bad day and offer help. <b><span style="font-size: medium;">Find a friend. Make a friend. Be a friend.</span></b>Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-77405297718433288842011-01-21T20:14:00.001-07:002011-01-21T20:14:40.589-07:00Speekee Spanish (review)<p><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="97" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Foreign%20Language/speekeelogo.jpg" width="380" border="0" /></p> <p>My husband and I both took Spanish throughout school and into college. I actually even have more years of it on my transcript than he does. BUT—he is fluent; I am not. I can spatter out a few phrases and try to make sense of what was said. He can carry on a conversation with anyone in our community, where we have lots of native speakers. I can pick out a few key words, but never get past conjugating the verb.</p> <p>The difference? He learned some Spanish in a preschool Montessori class and had teachers who made it fun. He approached it with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the culture. Me? Not so much.</p> <p>I’m hoping my children will stand a chance at foreign language fluency in their years of learning. And for now, we’ve got the fun part down, thanks to an opportunity to review <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a>, a Spanish language video program.</p> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold"><img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="145" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Foreign%20Language/speekeepuppets.jpg" width="426" border="0" /></font></h2> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">Overview</font></h2> <p>Aimed at the two-to-ten year old crowd, this video gives over 150 minutes of fun-filled video shot in Spain with native speaking Spanish children. Not only are the locations fun, familiar places like the park, the beach, the cafe, but there’s lots of appeal for this age group with cute puppets, animation and catchy songs. </p> <p>You can opt to view the 10 episodes online (which we did) or you can get the DVDs. The DVDs are in the PAL format, which is a standard in Europe, but differs from the US/Canadian format. I’d be certain your player is compatible before getting the DVDs. Or just do the online option! We even streamed it wirelessly on our Wii! </p> <p>They’ve also thought of enhancing the learning with well-done worksheets and closed captioning in English and Spanish when viewed on a computer (or with the DVDs, just not available over the Wii).</p> <img style="border-top-width: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; padding-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="195" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Foreign%20Language/Speekeepuppet.jpg" width="250" border="0" /> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">Our Experience</font></h2> <p>Because we do our fair share of reviews and because I have so many children, I like to wait and see who is naturally drawn toward a particular resource. <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a> was a huge hit with my 3 and 5 (almost 6) year old daughters. It held their attention and they even asked to watch it affectionately referring to it as “Hola!” My older kids weren’t so into it, so I didn’t make them sit for it. It was special just for my little girls.  </p> <p>We started watching it on the computer, but then I wondered if it could be watched online via our new Wii. I ran into some trouble and after communicating with the great people at <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a>, they realized that it probably wasn’t going to happen. Well, within less than a week, their tech genius had solved the problem and now <em>everyone</em> can watch <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a> on the Wii. That’s customer service for the high tech generation! The closed captioning doesn’t work on the Wii, but my girls are young and can’t read it anyway. Needless to say, I was sincerely impressed with this company and their responsiveness to my request.  </p> <p>We did use a few of the worksheets and I found them to be professionally created, as well as age appropriate for the child who can hold a pencil. There are several available for each video session and they neatly tie in with the topic. </p> <p>Additionally, each video has many suggestions for you as the parent to take the lesson further than just the video. I liked the clever activities to maximize these videos and use them more as a jumping off point for early foreign language development lessons. There’s even a segment of the website geared toward classroom teachers with some<strong> </strong><a href="http://www.speekee.co.uk/resources/spanish/sow/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>incredible lesson plans</strong></a> and in-depth information for each unit. Homeschoolers will love these!</p> <div class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:dd496dbd-0e49-4cbe-93ac-7008c2696c99" style="padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; float: none; padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px"><div><embed width="460" height="276" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid697.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fvv331%2FMelissaMom%2FTOS%2520Review%2520Crew%2FMVI_1170001.mp4"></div><div style="width:460px;clear:both;font-size:.8em">My 3 and 5 year olds watching Speekee Spanish on our computer</div></div> <h2><font style="font-weight: bold">My Opinion</font></h2> <p>My little girls love <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a>! I really like <a href="http://speekee.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><strong>Speekee</strong></a> too. And I like the flexible viewing options offered by the company and the fact that I’m not roped into some long term commitment with the program. I also think this could be a great addition to a unit study about Spain or another Spanish speaking country. Although there are differences in the type of Spanish spoken in Spain versus Latin America, it really isn’t a big issue at this age and level. If you subscribe, you’ll get the first two weeks for FREE; no charges until after that trial period, so you really have nothing to lose. That way you can see for yourself if you’re little ones are singing Spanish songs before too long.  Adios!</p> <p> </p> <h4><em><strong>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783681/" rel="nofollow">The Review Crew blog</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=70029&type=thumbnail">more reviews</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> of this product.</strong></em></h4> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <blockquote> <h4><strong><u>Product:</u> <a href="http://speekee.com/index.php" rel="nofollow">Speekee Spanish video</a></strong></h4> </blockquote> <blockquote> <h4><strong><u>Description</u>:</strong> Spanish videos via the internet or DVD; 10 episodes for 150 minutes plus worksheets and teaching tips</h4> <h4><em><strong><u>Ages:</u></strong> Ages 2-10 </em></h4> <h4 align="left"><strong><u>Price</u>:</strong> $7.50 per month for online access; DVDs vary based on the current exchange rate, but are listed at £95.00.</h4> <h4><em><strong><u>Samples</u>:</strong> Get a FREE 2-week online trial <a href="http://speekee.com/online.php" rel="nofollow"><strong>HERE</strong></a> when you subscribe. You can cancel at ANY time. </em></h4> <p><em></em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew"><img height="58" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" border="0" /></a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-69692576169786790742011-01-19T10:14:00.002-07:002011-01-28T13:46:40.292-07:00Maestro Classics “Peter and the Wolf” (review)<p> <img style="border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Music/PETER_new_cover.jpg" border="0" /></p> <p>You know how much I love educational things my kids can do independently, right? Well, I’m also always on the hunt for products that help fill in the gaps of those incredibly enriching subjects I don’t get to spend as much time on as I’d like—music and the arts. So when I was chosen to review <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Maestro Classics</strong></a> <strong><em>Peter and the Wolf</em></strong>, I had a hunch it would be right up my alley. </p> <p><img style="border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Music/peter_logo_web.jpg" border="0" /></p> <h2><strong>Overview</strong></h2> <p>This is one of the many beautiful <em>Stories in Music</em> by the award-winning folks at <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Maestro Classics</strong></a>. This audio CD takes the classical musical story of Peter and the Wolf by Sergei Prokofiev and narrates the story amidst the music played by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition to the musical tale, the CD also contains tracks about composer Prokofiev and information on what to listen for in the music. A professionally created 24-page program booklet is included in the CD case with the most adorable artwork.</p> <p> </p> <p></p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>Although I had heard <em>about</em> this classic tale from other homeschoolers, I’m sad to admit that before this review, my children had never listened to Peter and the Wolf. Now they are very familiar and adore this magical tale where the main characters are played by instruments not actors voices. Of course, the narrator makes it easy to follow along with the story.</p> <p>The CD arrived neatly packaged in a tri-fold case with the program booklet (answers can be found online, if needed) and the most precious artwork of the story on everything. It really helped my children to be able to ‘see’ the characters in the story as they listened and I’m so glad it was such a beautiful picture to stick in their minds. The narrator is extremely easy to understand and enjoyable to listen to. And the music is top-notch! Who wouldn’t want the London Philharmonic Orchestra coming into your home to play? Quality is superb from every aspect of the <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Maestro Classics</strong></a><strong> </strong>product.</p> <p>My children—from the three year old to the eleven year old—listened to the story numerous times. One day, after they’d all heard it several times previously, I wanted to get a good listen so we popped it into the the CD player during lunchtime. I loved watching their intense focus on what was happening in the story, especially Sunshine who made everyone cover their eyes when the deep, forboding horn instruments representing the wolf were played.</p> <p> <img style="border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Music/maestro_notes-1.gif" border="0" /></p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>This CD was a true pleasure to listen to and I know will be heard in my house over and over and over again. There’s so much more you can do to stretch the fun and learning beyond just your 68 minutes of listening on the whole CD. Their newly redone website now includes</p> <ul> <li>Curriculum guides for parents and teachers </li> <li>Articles of interest on music and the family </li> <li>Kids club feature </li> <li>Lots of samples </li> </ul> <p>The thing I really like about the <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Maestro Classics</strong></a><strong> </strong>products are that the children just love the well-done story. They are pretty unaware that an appreciation for classical music is growing, but mother knows best and understands that cross-curricular learning has just occurred. This mama LOVES that and will be adding more of these excellent CDs to our listening library. </p> <p> </p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783654/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Review Crew blog</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=69125&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more reviews</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> of this product.</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><u>Product:</u> <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter and the Wolf audio CD</a> </strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><u>Company</u>: <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Maestro Classics</a> 888-540-2811</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><u>Description</u>:</strong> Audio CD of classical music stories</span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong><u>Ages:</u></strong> Ages 4 and up</em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><u>Price</u>:</strong> $16.98 (There’s a special right now for 3 CDs for $45—hurry, not sure how long that will last. Use code MAESTRO45.)</span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong><u>Samples</u>:</strong> Listen on <a href="http://www.maestroclassics.com/"><strong>www.MaestroClassics.com</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong><u>Other CDs</u></strong>: The Tortoise and the Hare, The Story of Swan Lake, Mike Mulligan and the Steam Shovel, Casey at the Bat, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and Juanita the Spanish Lobster (also available in Spanish). There’s also some lovely gift sets for a couple of the CDs that include books.</em></span> </p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em></em></span></p> <span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" border="0" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6>Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-80101282211228781832011-01-11T10:07:00.000-07:002011-01-13T12:37:53.080-07:00All Systems Go (and come and go)<p>I’ve used more chore charts and systems in my years of motherhood than I care to count or can even remember. I can’t think that I used anything before having children, but then again, your time (and your mess) is your own before children. Once you are blessed with little one, the mess multiplies exponentially.</p> <p>I know now that I like variety. I used to think I just hadn’t happened on the perfect system yet, and when I did, it would solve all my problems and I’d stick with it for the rest of my life. And probably teach it to my grandchildren too. </p> <p>Here’s how it worked: I would find some great chore chart or system for managing our home. It was all the buzz. I thought it would revolutionize my household. So I got it. Or implemented it. </p> <p>But then the next best thing came out. Someone published a new one. Or a cuter one. Or I had more children and needed a different one. Or it didn’t work for my kiddos. Or I got an iTouch. Or an iPad. </p> <p>Today, I’m OK knowing that I <em>like</em> trying new things when it comes to systems in my home. I’m not completely reinventing the wheel, but I like new tools—toys for moms, in my opinion. When something isn’t working, or something else might work better, it actually inspires me to switch it up. And my kids are no worse for the wear. </p> <p>So here are some links to some great, and many free, options for chore charts and systems for you and your children. I haven’t tried them all, but I just might yet.</p> <p> </p> <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com" target="_blank"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" class="aligncenter" border="0" alt="MoneySavingMom.com" src="http://img.moneysavingmom.com/msm_150x150.jpg" width="150" height="150" /></a>  <p><strong><a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/downloads/household-management-forms" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Money Saving Mom</a></strong> has some really well-done charts for your children’s chores, a master list for your week and even a master cleaning list. Totally FREE! I love her site! You’re bound to save money if you follow her advice.</p> <p> </p> <a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="Homeschool Creations" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y37/jolantheerb/HomeschoolCreationsSidebarButtoncop.jpg" width="150" height="150" /></a> <p>Jolanthe at <a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Homeschool Creations</strong></a> has a great blog for homeschoolers. And she is one creative and busy gal, with tons of the cutest free printables available on the web—be sure to check out her <a href="http://homeschoolcreations.com/astronautpreschoolpack.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>adorable preschool astronaut</strong></a> ones. Here’s <a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/2010/08/our-chore-system-chore-chart-printables.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>her system for chores and school</strong></a> with a link to her free chart.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnIpX96lI/AAAAAAAABG8/KxwjCGJfMdQ/s1600-h/chorepad_icon_big%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="chorepad_icon_big" border="0" alt="chorepad_icon_big" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnJWbOHwI/AAAAAAAABHA/a7KqfyWcm7Q/chorepad_icon_big_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="154" height="154" /></a></p> <p>This is my new find for peace and order in my home in 2011--<a href="http://nannek.com/chorepad.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>ChorePad</strong></a>. I installed it on our iPad (another toy courtesy of my loving, generous high tech mom) and the kids love it! I love it!Not only does it keep track of the chores they need to do, but it also controls the payout of rewards. For instance, I decided you need 30 points to play Wii for 30 minutes. No points=no play. Sad kids=clean house. It was $4.99; pricey in the app world, but worth it to me. It’s also available for the iPhone. Remember, technology is your servant—think of it like a personal assistant/nanny/scorekeeper kind of tool.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnKMMLpVI/AAAAAAAABHE/LUbd8uj6Xnw/s1600-h/HomeRoutines%5B5%5D.png"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="HomeRoutines" border="0" alt="HomeRoutines" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnKu_B25I/AAAAAAAABHI/lG6bI32hnpE/HomeRoutines_thumb%5B3%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="180" height="240" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnL0siSGI/AAAAAAAABHM/xUYsMk0y7fE/s1600-h/27544_113420825375218_9407_q%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="27544_113420825375218_9407_q" border="0" alt="27544_113420825375218_9407_q" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnMXyeMYI/AAAAAAAABHQ/BuRjz5qHRuc/27544_113420825375218_9407_q_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="129" height="129" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://www.homeroutines.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>HomeRoutines</strong></a> app is what I use to keep myself on track with various routines throughout the day. It’s very customizable (<em>see my morning routine above</em>) and simple to use with any iPhone or iPad. Not only can I keep track of daily routines, but I can work on various ‘zones’ throughout the house on various weeks of the month. A little time setting things up and it’s good to go. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnM_aApaI/AAAAAAAABHU/vstZ570AJxM/s1600-h/pegstour%5B3%5D.gif"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="pegstour" border="0" alt="pegstour" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnNdjvndI/AAAAAAAABHY/0CPGRXphHKA/pegstour_thumb%5B1%5D.gif?imgmax=800" width="200" height="200" /></a>Back when I only had 4 children, I invested in the not-so-cheap, but super cool <a href="http://familytools.com/inside.php?id=KL6LF2Q4A" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>P.E.G.S. System</strong></a> by Family Tools. I only recently parted with it, but my friend Lisa loves it now. If you have super visual kids or just like things all neat and orderly and laid out for you, you’ll love this. It also includes includes character, attitude and behavior disks, as well as a booklet with all kinds of ideas for using the system.  </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnN4lIvMI/AAAAAAAABHc/1DH77sC1qyM/s1600-h/MOTC%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="MOTC" border="0" alt="MOTC" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnOSrmJTI/AAAAAAAABHg/5G5IYCMIMsM/MOTC_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="246" /></a> </p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.titus2.com/ecommerce/products/prod_listing.php/1150" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Managers of Their Chores</a></strong> is put out by the same sweet family as popular scheduling book, <em>Managers of Their Homes</em> (MOTH). The Maxwell Family have created a very thorough chore system with a chore pack that kids will love. You can read all about what’s included, but the book is quite in depth and will help you think through all that really needs to happen in a household. It really takes the assignment of chores to an almost-scientific level. I mean that in the best way. It’s ideal for larger families who really need to be running like a fine tuned machine. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=396423&b=175705&m=9286&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Etheoldschoolhousestore%2Ecom%2Findex%2Ephp%3Fmain%5Fpage%3Dproduct%5Finfo%26cPath%3D65%5F231%5F260%26products%5Fid%3D2557" rel="nofollow"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="TMSThreeCleans_MED" border="0" alt="TMSThreeCleans_MED" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSvnOkXwD3I/AAAAAAAABHk/E8Vv4jfa3ao/TMSThreeCleans_MED%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="250" height="174" /></a> </p> <p>Another resource that I think looks wonderful and is on my wish list is the <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=396423&b=175705&m=9286&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Etheoldschoolhousestore%2Ecom%2Findex%2Ephp%3Fmain%5Fpage%3Dproduct%5Finfo%26cPath%3D65%5F231%5F260%26products%5Fid%3D2557" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Clean & Flip Charts</strong></a>. The neat thing about these books is that they break down the chore into manageable steps. The set includes:</p> <ol> <li><font color="#d12810" size="4">Zone Cleaning for Kids </font></li> <li><font color="#d12810" size="4">Laundry for Kids</font> </li> <li><font color="#d12810" size="4">Bedrooms for Kids</font> </li> </ol> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Updated to add just one more:</em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="coahbutton" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4539688748_8098ff340c_o.png" width="150" height="150" /><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p>Just days after posting this, I came across another wonderful <a href="http://confessionsofahomeschooler.blogspot.com/2011/01/chore-chart-cards.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>FREE chore chart</strong></a> by Erica over at <a href="http://confessionsofahomeschooler.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><em><strong>Confessions of a Homeschooler</strong></em></a>. It’s really clever and she even did a version for the younger set of little helpers. Very cute—you’ve got to check it out!</p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#d12810" size="4"></font></p> <p>So there’s some resources to get you <strong>off to a good start</strong> in 2011. If new stuff gets you <strong><em>off track</em></strong>, then use what works. But don’t be afraid to try something new if you feel the need to freshen things up. You just might find something that takes your household management to the next level. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><font size="5">I’d love to hear from you…What tools or systems do you follow to keep the casa clean and the children busy helping?</font></strong></p> <p><font color="#d12810" size="4"></font></p> <p><font color="#d12810" size="4"> </font></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-92205528974691950902011-01-10T18:47:00.001-07:002011-01-10T18:54:46.205-07:00Easy Classical (a review)<p>If providing a classical education is a goal in your homeschool, but the laborious task of choosing the resources and planning out the details overwhelms you, then you might feel a burdened lifted when you take a peek at the schedules created by <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a>. And if you’ve never explored what constitutes a classical education (think Susan Wise Bauer’s <strong><em>A Well Trained Mind</em></strong>), then you might be surprised to learn exactly what it is and how doable it is with the tools offered by the Williams family who created <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a>. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://easyclassical.com/"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="easy classical" border="0" alt="easy classical" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSu2uUuZVKI/AAAAAAAABGw/fPNGFS27Kfs/easy%20classical%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="90" /></a> </p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>My assignment wasn’t to actually implement the schedule, but rather just evaluate it as a tool. I was given <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Early_Modern_Product_Page.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical’s Early Modern History Schedule</strong></a><em></em> which covers history from the Explorer’s to the 1820’s for the Early Grammar student, which if you’re new to the classical lexicon, this is the first stage of learning and generally means early elementary. The framework for the schedule is built around the recommendations of <strong>Susan Wise Bauer</strong> in <em>The Well-Trained Mind</em>, the queen bee of classical educators who herself was home educated by mom Jessie Wise.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSu2vMFT_kI/AAAAAAAABG0/fX4HoNV9U1I/s1600-h/EarlyModern_ProductPicture%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="EarlyModern_ProductPicture" border="0" alt="EarlyModern_ProductPicture" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSu2vpesLgI/AAAAAAAABG4/zKzpJ5JQamE/EarlyModern_ProductPicture_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="188" height="240" /></a><strong><u><em>Appearance</em></u></strong></p> <p>This schedule is packed with over 100 pages of planning. Beginning with a brief introduction,  as well as a listing of resources and supplies needed, the schedule is neatly laid out with plenty of white space and easy-to-read fonts. One week is divided Monday through Friday and fits nicely on one page. The pages would be easy to pop into my planning notebook and know what we had to do at a glance. I received the electronic version, which is my preference these days with all the many papers floating around my desk. You could get by using it on screen only and print student pages as you need them. </p> <p>Icons are used throughout the schedule to alert you to a mapping exercise or as a reminder of a narration exercise. There’s also several comprehension questions that you can do orally or as a quiz (again, it’s all ready for you to just print out and hand to your student). And there’s always a handy little reminder on a page if there are items you’ll need to have on hand for the next week. Love that! </p> <p><strong><u><em>Content</em></u></strong></p> <p>Of course, as the old saying goes, ‘pretty is as pretty does,’ and a well- typeset schedule doesn’t guarantee a well-planned day. First off, you really want to see the resources you’ll be using and make sure they jive with your style. Fortunately, <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a> has made it easy and laid out <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Early_Modern_Curriculum.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>all the resources you’ll use</strong></a> so you can see the books they schedule, as well as click on links to purchase them on your own or possibly find at your local library. </p> <p>I think the book selections are excellent. She uses several ‘spines’ which will give you lots of resources to draw on throughout the year. I know I have strayed from programs that used one spine just because I didn’t care for it. That probably won’t be a concern with the variety you’ll find in the <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a> schedule. I also really like the read aloud chapter book choices. Personally, I do think the book selections could work for an older child than just the Early Grammar age. I have found most classical reading selections too advanced for my taste, so I’d have no problem using all of this up to 5th/6th grade. But that’s just me.</p> <p><strong><em><u>Pace</u></em></strong></p> <p>After you determine that you indeed like the book choices, it’s important to know that you’ll be able to keep pace with the program. I have used many curricula over the years with schedules planned out, but they varied greatly in how successfully I could implement them. And just like Goldilocks, you’ll need to find one that is JUST RIGHT. Only you can determine what that means for your little homeschool with the children you have, the priorities and goals you’ve set, and your teaching style. </p> <p>When I look at the schedule on a <em><strong>daily basis</strong></em>, it’s a little overwhelming. Monday is the kicker with a LOT of history reading plus the other subjects on the schedule. If it bothers you to draw an arrow on your schedule to indicate you’ll need to finish this tomorrow, you might not like this. Or it might stretch you outside that comfort zone of checking all the little boxes at the end of the day. But girlfriend, homeschooling is going to stretch you anyway, so embrace thinking outside the box and realize it’s OK to mark up that perfect little schedule and make it your own.</p> <p>But that said, I do think the <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a> schedule is doable on a <strong><em>weekly basis</em></strong> because it’s not just history you’re covering but also geography, writing, a hands-on history project and a read-aloud. There will be weeks you won’t get to everything, and that’s OK. I also would feel totally comfortable spreading some of the history reading across the week. I’m a tweaker and won’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.</p> <p>Probably my only beef with classical education as a whole is the strong emphasis on history. I love history and found it to be one of my fave subjects in homeschooling, but I think the intense focus on the subject can leave mom’s of elementary students feeling inadequate because there are only so many hours in day. The kids have to learn to read, write and do math. If you have more than a couple children, just trying to do that will make for a full day. Add in too much history and you might start sinking. And who even mentioned science and the arts and Latin?</p> <p>I do like how <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Classical</strong></a> includes geography and writing and narration into their program. Of course, you have to know what the perfect fit is for your family and what your needs are for this season in homeschooling. My focus this year is just the basics and adding in history and science and geography in small bites. But a program like this could easily be stretched over 2 years if you need to lighten the load to focus on the foundation. </p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>I think the Williams’ have done an excellent job with the <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Early_Modern_Product_Page.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Early Modern History Schedule</strong></a>. It’s a resource that will make a classical education more accessible for mom’s who don’t love the planning process or who really want to follow the classical approach faithfully. It’s a good value and although you still have to acquire the actual books, $35 is a steal for a year’s worth of history, geography and writing lesson plans. I know I’ll be pulling it back out again when we finally get to that point in our history studies to see if our lives will allow us to follow a nice plan. </p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783619/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Review Crew blog</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=67037&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more reviews</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> of this product.</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Product:</u> <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Early_Modern_Product_Page.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Early Modern History Schedule</strong></a><em></em> </strong></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Company</u>: <a href="http://easyclassical.com/" target="_blank">Easy Classical</a></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Description</u>:</strong> A classically inspired history schedule</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Ages:</u></strong> Elementary</em></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Price</u>:</strong> Digital download: $29.95; or get a </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%">a printed notebook for: $35.95 </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Samples</u>:</strong> Click <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Early_Modern_Product_Page.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a><strong></strong> for several samples</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Other products</u></strong>: <a href="http://easyclassical.com/WWH_Early_Modern_History.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Writing with History,</strong></a> <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Complete_Schedules.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Complete grade schedules</strong></a>, <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Main_Schedules.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Main schedules</strong></a>, <a href="http://easyclassical.com/Science_Schedules.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Science schedules</strong></a> & <a href="http://easyclassical.com/History_Schedules.html" rel="license" target="_blank"><strong>History schedules</strong></a>.</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p> </p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> <span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-36176670164073384292011-01-05T08:00:00.000-07:002011-01-05T10:12:24.680-07:00Math Facts Now (a review)<p>It doesn’t matter if you’re a classical homeschooler or unit study inspired or an eclectic educator, like me--one thing no homeschool can ignore is the memorization of math facts. Heck, mom with kids in any type of school can’t ignore this! Of course, children need to be taught the <em>concepts</em> of addition and multiplication and such, but after that they are going to need something (or several somethings) to help them commit these facts to memory. Otherwise, as they advance in their math skills, problems will go very s-l-o-w-l-y if these facts haven’t been committed to memory and are able to be recited as fast as your own name. I can tell you that the smart people at <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> understand this.</p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Math/home_r1_c1-2.gif" width="300" height="93" /></p> <h2><strong></strong></h2> <h2><strong>Overview</strong></h2> <p>The <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> program has a simple goal: teaching children to commit their math facts to memory. Here’s their take on how to do it:</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><em>Unlike popular math programs that rely on cartoon characters to entertain children rather than educate them, "Math Facts NOW!" relies on solid and time-tested principles for the development of exceptional speed of recall and long-term retention of math multiplication tables ("times tables") and all other basic math facts.</em></strong></p> </blockquote> <p> </p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>We received our download to <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> and had it up and running in minutes. It’s a pretty easy install and the simplicity of the program makes set-up a breeze. You can add users and then you add specific lessons that you pick for a child to work on when they start. For instance, if a child is working on plus 1s and plus 2s, then I check just those numbers and the <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> will quiz them on adding 1 and 2 to numbers 0-12. I like how specific I can get, because there are times that I like their practice to be focused. </p> <p>Next you select: </p> <ol> <li><strong>How many seconds they have to answer each problem.</strong> </li> <li><strong>How many times you want them to input the problem when an answer is wrong </strong></li> <li><strong>How many correct answers they need to have to complete the lesson. </strong></li> </ol> <p>There’s not quite as much flexibility with this as I’d like, but I think that’s part of the program’s success record. My younger children had a hard time inputting the correct math sentence 2 times when they gave a wrong answer. You’re required to enter 3+2=5 at least twice. It just took more prowess on the keyboard than my little kids have. </p> <p><a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a>  keeps track of your child’s progress and repeats problem areas more frequently. You can even print a report of weaknesses and set up a reward within the program, like an ice cream dessert when you complete a lesson with no errors.  </p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>We are a pretty media savvy family. My kids have played lots of computer games, apps on the iPad and iTouch, we own several handheld learning games and now a Wii. Although we limit the quality and quantity of what we do, they are used to a little more entertainment factor in their learning games than <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> provides. So they didn’t love the program. </p> <p>BUT (and this is a big but) that doesn’t mean that I, the mom and teacher, won’t have them use <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> from time to time.  I think it will prove especially useful for those tricky math facts that just aren’t coming easily.</p> <p>I think <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> is a nice basic program for learning math facts. For parents that are really trying to limit the cartoon creations in their home, this is a very straight-forward program that stands no chance of offending anyone’s personal preferences for characters, music or game play. I also think it would be ideal for remedial work with a child who might feel some other programs are too juvenile. </p> <p><a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> is really a good value for a program that allows you to customize the process of memorizing math facts. I don’t know about you, but I never seem to be able to set up my flashcard boxes the way you’re supposed to in order to drill daily. <a href="http://mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Math Facts Now</strong></a> makes it easy. And what mom doesn’t like easy?</p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Product:</u> <a href="http://www.mathfactsnow.com/" rel="nofollow">Math Facts Now 2.0</a></strong></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Description</u>:</strong> Computer drills for math facts</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Ages:</u></strong> Early elementary through middle school</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Price</u>:</strong> Download instantly: $15.95; or get a </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%">CD-ROM: $15.95 + $3.95 S & H </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>System Requirements</u></strong>: Runs on Windows 2000, ME, XP, Vista and Windows 7. 4.5 Mb of free hard drive space required. Not available for Mac or Linux OS.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Samples</u>:</strong> You can download a free trial <a href="http://www.mathfactsnow.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a>.</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783562/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Review Crew blog</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=62673&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more reviews</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> of this product.</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> <span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span> <p><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-72705315304911439212011-01-03T19:46:00.001-07:002011-01-03T19:55:52.432-07:00Positive Action for Christ (a review)<p>The older my children get, the more I look for resources that will challenge them AND help them grow in independence. I also value curricula in our little homeschool that will promote my children’s spiritual growth and knowledge in Bible study.  So when I got the chance to review Bible curriculum from <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a>—I jumped at the opportunity.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSKKEtkvt_I/AAAAAAAABGo/nC2S2AT_4B0/s1600-h/PAC%20logo.png"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="PAC logo" border="0" alt="PAC logo" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TSKKFi33h7I/AAAAAAAABGs/GrI1sIFDUH8/PAC%20logo_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="185" height="285" /></a><strong></strong></p> <h2><strong>Overview</strong></h2> <p>I received the <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>5th Grade Possessing the Land</strong></a> program from <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a> with a Student Manual and Teacher’s Manual. Beginning in Genesis, this is an Old Testament survey course with a goal of teaching the student how the stories of the OT fit together. I believe it is key to understanding God’s plan for redemption and grasping the richness to be found in the Word. </p> <p>The <strong>Student Manual</strong> is full color with age-appropriate illustrations. </p> <p><strong>It includes:</strong> </p> <ul> <li>Vocabulary sections </li> <li>Words for songs in music curriculum </li> <li>Puzzles, artwork, and maps </li> <li>Life application sections </li> <li>Attractive full-color format </li> <li>Various levels & thinking skills </li> <li>Material usable with any Bible translation </li> <li>Scripture memorization sheet </li> <li>189 pages </li> </ul> <p>The <strong>Teacher’s Manual</strong> is black and white in a 3-ring binder, and is super user friendly.<strong> </strong>It also contains copies of the student pages with answers filled in. I love these kind of answer keys—easy peasy for mom!</p> <p><strong>It includes:</strong></p> <ul> <li>35 lessons (one per week) </li> <li>Target truths (objectives) </li> <li>Teaching strategy section </li> <li>Weekly character traits </li> <li>Practical applications </li> <li>Interesting stories </li> <li>Ideas for puzzles, skits, artwork, buzz groups, and discussion </li> <li>Plans for 3, 4, or 5 day Bible class schedules </li> <li>Completed student's manual answer key pages </li> <li>Reproducible weekly quizzes with answer key </li> <li>Scripture memory program  </li> </ul> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>In addition, to the Student and Teacher manuals, the folks at <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a> sent a very helpful sheet about using their curriculum in a homeschool setting. There were several ideas about how to ‘tweak’ the program to use with multiple grades or even as a family devotion. I’m glad they gave me so many possibilities, but I still chose to use this with just my oldest daughter Eventide who is 11 years old and in the 5th grade.</p> <p>She hasn’t done a bunch of independent Bible study, which I’m now regretting because I think we should’ve done more sooner than this. She uses lots of devotionals, but as far as looking up specific verses to dig for the answers, she’s not as experienced. So the initial days with <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>Possessing the Land</strong></a> were a wee bit challenging. But at my house, we remind our kids that when its hard, your brain is growing. She grew more comfortable with the format and style of the workbook as she went along. </p> <p>The Teacher’s Manual is helpful for more than just checking their work. There are lots of helpful <em>Character Trait Activities</em>, <em>Teaching Strategies</em> and <em>Target Truths</em> (which is just the highlights for busy parents who need the big picture quickly). Because I have lots of children to work with and am striving to make my kids more independent, I didn’t sit with her and ‘teach’ the lesson, but the student manual really is pretty self contained and sufficient in my opinion. I don’t feel like it was less than wonderful because I didn’t teach a lesson to her. Remember, I’m a tweaker, and quite comfortable taking great resources and making them work for my family. (You can too!)</p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>I really, really like what <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a> has created. This is my second experience with the great resources they offer—I used their middle school program <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777"><strong>Wise Up!</strong></a> with my oldest son last year. The Bible studies they create are thorough, thoughtful and easy to use.  </p> <p>I’m sure younger children would require more interaction with mom than I gave my 11 year old with the program, but I think it’s an ideal program for the independent student to grow deeper in their knowledge of the Bible and make their walk with the Lord more personal. Depending on the needs of a family, I think it would be easy enough to purchase one program and use for several ages. </p> <p>Although it’s a tad pricey for many of us homeschoolers ($46.90 plus shipping for what I reviewed), I think it’s a good value for what you really get. It’s very meaty, as they say in Bible circles. And yet it’s age-appropriate ‘meat’, if you will. It’s challenging for the student, but totally within their level of ability and understanding. There is a good balance in information and application, which I deem important. I also like that they include quizzes and the lyrics to the hymns (the music CD can be purchased separately for $9.95).</p> <p>I would recommend <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a> to anyone who is looking for a solid Bible curricula in their homeschool and appreciates a workbook format. I think it would be a great addition for family devotions too, but recommend checking out the free <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>PDF samples</strong></a> to be sure you choose the grade level wisely for your particular group of kiddos. </p> <p>I plan to have Eventide continue with this throughout her 5th grade year. And may even check out the 4th grade program next year for DayBreak, just to be sure we get an earlier start on in-depth Bible study. I’m happy we got the opportunity to dig deeper into God’s word and begin the lifelong habit of mining for treasures—thank you <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ!</strong></a></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><font face="Georgia"></font><strong>    <u>Product:</u> </strong><strong><a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow">Possessing the Land</a> (5th grade)</strong></span></p> <p><strong><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%">    </span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><u>Company</u>: <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow">Positive Action for Christ</a></span></strong></p> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Description</u>:</strong> Full year Bible study curriculum </span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Ages:</u></strong> 5th grade; but tweakable for homeschooling families to use in a multi-age setting</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><u>Price</u>:</strong> Student: $12.95; Teacher: $33.95 (alternatively, you can get the Teacher’s Manual on CD for just $19.95)</span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Samples</u>:</strong> You can download <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow">PDF SAMPLES</a> of all the Student and Teacher books online.</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong><u>Other Products</u>:</strong> Lots more Bible curricula for <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>elementary to high school</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>church</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>Proteen Clubs</strong></a> and various <a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/003080.1.2495041665311084777" rel="nofollow"><strong>books</strong></a><strong>.</strong> Check out their great website—filled with free samples and a scope and sequence to view.</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783586/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Review Crew blog</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=65237&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">more reviews</a></strong><strong></strong><strong> of this product and other grade levels from </strong><a href="http://www.positiveaction.org/pages/htmlos/00691.1.2429469792710337851" rel="nofollow"><strong>Positive Action for Christ</strong></a><strong>.</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-31304191232164075672010-12-30T17:58:00.001-07:002010-12-30T20:03:05.287-07:00Ready for Something New<p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TR097V27R6I/AAAAAAAABGg/wNq8LyZ0Bvo/s1600-h/00438955%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="00438955" border="0" alt="00438955" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TR0976zY85I/AAAAAAAABGk/U7qafh0xoyA/00438955_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> </p> <p>I’m ready to officially say farewell to 2010. This year has been tough, but it’s also been good. It’s had challenges, joys, blessings, heartaches, laughter, changes, burnout, opportunity, disappointment, connections, surprises and growth. I’ve been stretched and pulled, broken down and built up, overwhelmed, but renewed. It’s the first time in 11 years that I haven’t had a baby in the house and the first time I’ve ever had a teenager to call my own. The ages, stages, times and seasons of our lives are changing; bringing new trials and new treasures. I look forward to what the Lord has in store for me and my family in 2011. There are many possibilities and only He knows. </p> <blockquote> <p><em><strong>Lord, let me lean hard on You each day for guidance, direction, provision and strength. Your love and grace are all I need; let me remember that amidst the flurry of everything that vies for my attention and affection.</strong></em></p> </blockquote> <p>I wish you all the best that Jesus has for your life this next year. I pray He brings renewed passion for Him and fresh vision for the work He has called you to. May you trust His strength in your weakness. May you accept His best even when it’s wrapped in disappointment, frustration, hard work, or anything less than you had hoped for.  It’s not a trite promise when the Word tells us:  </p> <blockquote> <p><strong><em>And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)</em>  </strong></p> </blockquote> <p>I sincerely thank you for reading <a href="http://dayindayoutdayupdaydown.blogspot.com/"><strong>Day In Day Out</strong></a> this year. This month has been a busy and preoccupied month here on my home front, but I really will be back in January with some great reviews and fresh insights for the year ahead. And possibly even a few fun giveaways. So until then, Happy New Year, my friends.</p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-13352648114675730322010-12-15T13:25:00.001-07:002010-12-15T13:25:20.538-07:00Worship the King<blockquote> <p align="left"><em>I wrote this a couple of years ago, but re-post it annually, as a timely reminder for Christmas. I know I need to reminded of the truths here, not just at Christmastide, but all year long. Hope you're encouraged and blessed.</em></p> <p align="left"><em></em></p> </blockquote> <p>It’s usually way BEFORE Christmastime that I have grand visions of how the next Christmas will be different. I envision my family by the fire listening to the story of Jesus’ birth. I see a slow pace to life that allows us to take in all the opportunities of Advent and Christmas. It’s at Christmas, the Lord invites us to join into the scene with the shepherds and the angels and worship the King.</p> <p> <br />But then December begins and there are so many things that keep me from worshiping Him. Looking for that perfect gift, attending all the holiday parties, mailing out Christmas cards, decorating our home for Christmas, baking Christmas cookies, visiting with family and friends, making memories and traditions with my own family. Plus all the usual housekeeping and laundry and cleaning.</p> <p> <br />None of these things are wrong or bad, but it takes real effort in the midst of real life to focus on worshipping the King. Especially if I’m just trying to survive the season!</p> <p> <br />So take a minute with me and imagine that night. You can see the iconic images of Mary and baby Jesus and Joseph in the stable. The sheep in the field. The angels proclaiming his birth. The shepherds come to worship him. The star in the night sky.</p> <p> <br />But do you ever stop and think of the cross? Of Jesus hanging on a tree at Calvary? Does the crown of thorns come to mind at Christmastime? What about the nails in the hands and feet of the Messiah? The empty tomb?</p> <p> <br />Most of us don’t.</p> <p> <br />But do you know that when we do, it will help us to REALLY worship Him. We need to think on the Cross in order to get a full picture of why Jesus would leave His Father in Heaven and enter a sinful, fallen world. He didn't just come to live for a while and show us how to live a sin-free life. We can’t live sin free. Jesus came to save us from our sins. Even his name foretold of his mission:</p> <blockquote><em><strong>Matthew 1:21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.</strong></em></blockquote> <br />Jesus came into the world as a baby with the mission of dying on the cross. It was the only way He could save us from eternal separation from God the Father. He did it for you and for me. He loved us THAT MUCH! <blockquote><strong><em>Eph. 1:7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.</em></strong></blockquote> <br />An old hymn by Charles Wesley says it beautifully in these lines: <blockquote><em>Amazing love! How can it be that thou, my God, <br />should die for me? <br />He left his Father’s throne above <br />(so free, so infinite his grace!) <br />Humbled himself (so great his love!) <br />And bled for all the chosen race.</em></blockquote> <br />Doesn’t just thinking on this cause you to worship Him? The beauty and the mystery of the Gospel is what draws us to our initial faith in Christ. <blockquote><strong><em>Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.</em></strong></blockquote> <br />But after our salvation, the work of the Gospel is not finished. A quote by C.J. Mahaney says it best: <blockquote><em>“We never move on from the cross, only into a more profound understanding of the cross.”</em></blockquote> <p> <br />Christ was born and died and rose again and then sent His Holy Spirit. He wants to be the object of my worship and affection. He wants to be King of my heart. He wants my heart to worship HIM alone!</p> <p> <br />But just like the distractions of the Christmas season, our hearts can get distracted and not focus on the King. We make idols to sit upon the thrones of our hearts. That may sound blasphemous, but it’s true. Our hearts are always worshipping something. John Calvin said our hearts are perpetual idol factories.</p> <p> <br />So we have to ask ourselves this question: Is Jesus always, and in every case, the supreme Ruler who receives my undivided passion and devotion? Or do I worship additional ‘gods’.</p> <p> <br />That’s a strong dose of conviction for me! I know we don’t often talk about other ‘gods’ with a lower case “G” but that’s exactly what we are doing when Jesus isn’t getting our undivided passion and devotion. <br />It’s not like we set out to worship other things or ideas, but somewhere along the way, we elevate things, even good things, in our hearts. We worship what we believe will bring us happiness. We think our joy is bound up in having our expectations fulfilled. Our desires turn into demands lead us to sin.</p> <p> <br />As the Lord began to show me this, I began to see things that I had carved into idols in my heart. When my house got clean and the floors sparkled and then a child came tromping through with muddy shoes, I yelled. They had sinned against my god of the Clean House. When the preschooler interrupted our read-aloud for the umpteenth time, I got angry. She had sinned against my god of the Perfect Homeschool. <br />The list goes on and on. There are so many things we can elevate to idols in our heart.</p> <p> <br />Yet even though I know my heart is deceitful and desperately wicked and is capable of turning out idols faster than China makes plastic toys, I want to give Christ the throne he rightfully deserves.</p> <p> <br />So how can I do this? How can I make sure King Jesus doesn’t get bumped off the throne of my heart on an hourly basis?</p> <p> <br />What the Lord has shown me is really quite simple. But it’s deep and profound at the same time. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><font size="5">The answer is THE GOSPEL.</font></strong></p> <p> <br />Keeping the Gospel at the center of my heart. My thoughts. My prayers. Focusing on Jesus from the manger to the cross and the resurrection. When I preach the Gospel to myself daily, it turns my affections to Him. The amazing grace I see there shifts my priorities and focus without a lot of work.</p> <p> <br />I used to think, I need to work on not yelling or I need to work on having a gentle answer or having self-control. Or I need to work on my selfishness or my pride. I need to get to work at ‘fixing’ all the sin issues in my life.</p> <p> <br />But something amazing happens when I fix my mind on the Gospel. My love for Jesus grows and the idols of my own making fade away. <br />In <strong><a href="http://www.graceandtruthbooks.com/search/results.asp?S=gospel+primer&T=exact">The Gospel Primer </a></strong>it says:</p> <blockquote> <p><em>The key to mortifying fleshly lusts is to eliminate the emptiness within me and replace it with fullness; and I accomplish this by feasting on the gospel.</em></p> <p><em>Indeed, as I perpetually feast on Christ and all of His blessings found in the gospel, I find that my hunger for sin diminishes and the lies of lust simply lose their appeal. Hence, to the degree that I am full, I am free. Eyes do not rove, nor do fleshly lusts rule, when the heart is fat with the love of Jesus.</em></p> </blockquote> <p> <br />I can’t say that I’ve got it all figured out now. Far from it. It’s still an effort to fill my mind with the Gospel and keep my thoughts from running down the ruts they’ve become accustomed to. But I believe I’ve turned a corner and I know that I feel more than ever before I can worship the King with all my heart. There’s a lot of freedom in knowing that the sin that so easily besets me can be extinguished with the Gospel.</p> <p> <br />So I invite you this Christmas and everyday after to focus on Jesus with a full perspective. Seeing not just the Babe in the Manger, but the Savior on the Cross. The Risen Savior. Realizing that its our sin that brought him to the manger that starry night and our sin that kept Him there on the Cross. His love for you and for me compelled him to do it. That’s a powerful love to focus on with all your heart.</p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-38720304446727609652010-12-10T12:11:00.002-07:002010-12-10T13:08:29.397-07:00Good Morning, God from Apologia (a review)<p>I love good children’s books! And if you saw my extensive bookshelves, you’d have a hard time thinking me choosey, but I am. Some of my favorite story books for little ones have beautiful artwork, but not always an eternal truth. And unfortunately, there are many books on the Christian market that have flashy artwork that looks like it jumped off the Saturday cartoon channel, even though the words convey God’s truth, the pictures don’t convey his beauty.</p> <p>My love for beauty and the Lord need not be mutually exclusive, and fortunately I was blessed to review <strong><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Good Morning, God</a></strong> which shines in both beauty and truth.</p> <p><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/pdfs/sample/271.pdf?zenAdminID=9df713e49ee746fbc6a32db1ed901064" rel="nofollow"><img style="border: 0px none; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="GoodmorningGod" alt="GoodmorningGod" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TQJ7SvK0shI/AAAAAAAABGM/xJjlgRfU4F0/GoodmorningGod%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0" width="270" height="273" /></a> </p> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>If you think of science when you hear about homeschool publisher <strong>Apologia</strong>, you’re not alone. That’s what started this company as a leader in the homeschool market back in 1996. But they’ve grown to include many other offerings in their <a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/prod.php" rel="nofollow"><strong>store</strong></a> of resources, including worldview, writing, geography and inspirational books, as well as an online academy.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Good Morning, God</a></strong> is a hard-bound book that tells the story of a 4 year old boy as he wakes up each day and goes to bed each night. The guiding scripture of the book is Deuteronomy 6:6-7: </p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><em><strong>“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” </strong></em></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> </blockquote> <p><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Here’s a very nice </span></strong><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/pdfs/sample/271.pdf?zenAdminID=9df713e49ee746fbc6a32db1ed901064" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">peek</span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"> at the first 12 pages.</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong></p> <p>The story follows the young child through each day of the week (great for learning the names of each day) and throughout each day. There are several questions that tie in with each day at the back of the book, really extending this beyond just a storybook into a more in-depth preschool devotional.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=174" rel="nofollow"><img style="border: 0px none; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="coloring book" alt="coloring book" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TQJ7TA1SQjI/AAAAAAAABGQ/qT4jw__ZMEk/coloring%20book%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" border="0" width="261" height="239" /></a> </p> <p>There’s even a <a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=174" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>sweet coloring book</strong></a> with 32 pages to go with it for just $4. This would extend the experience further and bring much enjoyment to little hands who like to color.</p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>We thoroughly enjoyed reading this aloud as our homeschool devotional a few mornings, as well as several times with my younger sets at bedtime. It's easy to read and enjoyable for little ones of many ages. My 5 and 7 year old didn’t think it ‘babyish’ and yet it was engaging for the now 3 year old also. </p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>How could I not love this sweet book? It’s rich in spiritual content and with the additional questions to discuss its useful for taking stories to the next level of a child’s understanding. It also has beautiful artwork that is simple and timeless. <strong><a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Good Morning, God</a></strong> would make a great gift for a young family or be ideal for family devotions in the early years. I know you’ll love this book!</p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong>Product: <a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=173" target="_blank">Good Morning, God</a></strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong>Company: <a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/prod.php" rel="nofollow">Apologia</a></strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong>Description:</strong> A sweet picture book teaching young ones about God</span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong>Ages:</strong> 1-8 years old</em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong>Price:</strong> $14</span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong>Available: <a href="https://apologia.securesites.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12&products_id=173" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apologia website</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em><strong>Other Products: Many other products published by Apologia including Science, Geography, Worldview and more. </strong></em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><strong><em></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ><em>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783485/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>The Review Crew blog</strong></a> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=61437&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>more reviews</strong></a> of this product from Apologia.</em></span></p> <p><span style=";font-family:gill sans mt;font-size:130%;" ></span><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" border="0" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6>Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-46362406510129843992010-12-04T08:24:00.000-07:002010-12-04T08:24:00.381-07:00Beautiful Imperfection<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TPk5lRXBwmI/AAAAAAAABGE/HGtZes0KFFg/s1600-h/MP900407087%5B8%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="MP900407087" border="0" alt="MP900407087" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TPk5mFxiouI/AAAAAAAABGI/t9cXEciem1I/MP900407087_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="369" /></a> </p> <p>We started Advent right on November 28th, just like the calendar said we should. We darkened the lights as the children all gathered around our large table after dinner. Night Owl proudly lit the first candle. The almost-three year old baby played happily with our cherished <em>Fisher Price Little People</em> nativity set. My husband read the Scriptures for the first day of Advent and I knew this was going to be a beautiful month of preparation for Christmas.</p> <p> </p> <p>It didn’t matter that the kids argued over who would light and who would snuff the candle. Or that there was no wreath to surround the candles and I didn’t have any plans to make or buy one. The table still had shards of spaghetti scattered from dinner. And Blue Moon kept sliding underneath the table during the reading. When it came time to sing “Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel,” we didn’t know more than the first verse. Before the night was over, the puppy had chewed the wings off the Little People angel and Sunshine threw it in the trash.</p> <p> </p> <p>For many years, the reality of how tradition played out in our family bothered me. I had pictures of perfection in my mind and truly believed they were achievable. But after 13 years of mothering, I’ve come to terms with the imperfections of real life. I even find it beautiful—the contrast between our attempt to celebrate and worship and the reality of life within a family of eight sinners.</p> <p> </p> <p>It was for sinners that Christ was born. The sinless Savior was sent into a messy world full of imperfection and transgression to live a perfect life and die a horrible death. The King wasn’t afraid to be laid in a dirty manger, or to mingle with sinners. The imperfection of the world wasn’t off putting to Him. “Come as you are,” he called.</p> <p> </p> <p>He still calls to us. This season of Advent, come to Him, just as you are. He’s not troubled by your mess or mine. He’s just glad we’ve opened our hearts and our homes to make room for Him. He doesn’t expect perfection nor need it. He was and is the only perfection the world will ever know. We just need to make room at the table for Him. Wreath or no wreath, He’s ready and waiting for you. For me. </p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-80255450805105734742010-12-03T10:02:00.001-07:002010-12-03T10:02:57.100-07:00December is for Jesus<p>I vow every December to find more ways to celebrate the real reason for the season—Jesus! After Thanksgiving, I get out my box of advent accessories and stacks of Christ-centered Christmas books. I set out the many nativity scenes we own, several of which are hands-on for the littlest ones. Then we decorate the tree and the house and maybe get a wreath hung outside the entry. The Christmas songs play in the background and I really think this might be the year when life slows down like a Norman Rockwell picture. Then it’s a blur of activity and gifts and busyness until we’re ringing in the New Year.</p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><font color="#b10729" size="6">“Where did the month go?” </font></p> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p>All my hopes for a <strong><em>cozy</em></strong> season that <strong><em>slows do</em>wn</strong> to <strong><em>savor the Savior</em></strong> are dashed. Although we make time for lighting the Advent candles at least half of the month, I find most of the Christmas books are never read aloud to little ears that need to hear the story. And forget about the great craft and baking ideas I have stashed in a file. If I get a batch of cookies in and one simple craft started, I’m doing great. It seems that December gets so full of Christmas activities and parties and shopping, that I guiltily feel relieved when January rolls around. On top of our busy everyday lives, it’s a wonder any of us have time for Christmas at all. . . . .</p> <p align="center">Click <a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/december-is-for-jesus" rel="nofollow"><strong>HERE</strong></a><span style="font-size: 100%"></span> to read the rest of today’s post over at </p> <p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 130%"><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/?s=Melissa+Morgner" rel="nofollow">Heart of the Matter Online.</a></span></strong></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <center><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/"><img src="http://heartofthematteronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/hotm-button-new.png" /></a></center> <p></p> <p><a href="http://www.blogger.com/&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;center&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;a%20href=%22http://heartofthematteronline.com/%22&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;img%20src=%22http://heartofthematteronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/hotm-button-new.png%22/&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;/a&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;/center&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;" target="_blank"></a></p> <p></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 130%"><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/" rel="nofollow"></a></span></strong></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-8823197988171990972010-11-22T15:31:00.001-07:002010-11-22T15:31:35.263-07:00Young Scholar’s Guide to Composers review<p>Until I got to college, I didn’t learn anything memorable about classical music. As a young adult, I gained an appreciation for it, but couldn’t help but feel as though I was late to the concert. I want more for my children. We have done some informal studies of various composers over the years, but nothing very organized and never seem to get past Mozart, Beethoven and Vivaldi. So I was very excited to review <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>A Young Scholar’s Guide to Composers</strong></a> by <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Bright Ideas Press</strong></a>.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Music/composers-book-cover-web-231x300-1.jpg" /></p> <h2><strong>Overview</strong></h2> <p>A full year’s worth of lessons—32 weeks in total—will take you through 6 eras of music and 26 composers in <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>A Young Scholar’s Guide to Composers</strong></a>. After a couple weeks of introduction to music from a Biblical and historical standpoint, this study begins to look at composers in the Baroque period and continues chronologically. Not only is the text rich with knowledge on various composers and musical eras, but it includes well-done note taking and review worksheets (for you to copy or print), timelines, maps, games and coloring pages, as well as musical listening suggestions. </p> <h2><strong>Our Experience</strong></h2> <p>Remember, I’m the queen of tweakers when it comes to using resources. So it should be no surprise that I made this work with my children from kindergarten through 5th grade, rather than the recommended 4th through 8th grade. And I don’t think its a stretch to do so. We read the the chapter together and then had so much fun searching for examples of what we learned. For instance, listening to the Gregorian chants online was a beautiful way to appreciate the only church music from the middle ages. I also chose to do the worksheets orally, rather than have the kids write them. </p> <p>I really liked the reproducible coloring pages, as did my children who love to draw and color while we read aloud. The listening suggestions in the appendix are great links to listen to online, so no need to buy a bunch of music CDs to go with this curriculum.  There’s a thorough glossary and a comprehensive list of additional composer resources you may want to explore in your study. I also think this would be a great way to stretch this study out over 2 years, as well as give your children more ways to learn on their own. Many are books you can get at your local library or videos you could get on Netflix or the library. </p> <p>We only just began this study about 6 weeks ago, so we have a ways to go until it’s complete. I really think I will stretch it out for two years, especially because my kids are on the young side. We have yet to try the suggested ideas for folderbooks (kind of like lapbooks), but I think my older girls will love this super creative way to organize the facts about each composer. I definitely plan to continue with it. </p> <p><strong></strong></p> <h2><strong>My Opinion</strong></h2> <p>I loved everything about <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>A Young Scholar’s Guide to Composers</strong></a>. I chose the book (versus the CD) and was pleased with how it’s professionally laid out and bound, includes an excellent variety of learning tools and is written for  and I believe fills a great need that is often neglected in many homeschools. </p> <p>This book makes it EASY to add the enriching study of composers into your homeschool, no matter what your style of homeschooling. You can do as much or as little as you choose and really slow down where you’d like to learn more. Of course, the CD would be a great choice for printing as you go along and making it easy to print out any worksheets or games if you don’t have access to a copier.</p> <p>I’m so thrilled to add this to my bookshelf of curricula I love and know I will use. Thanks <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Bright Ideas Press</strong></a> for creating such an excellent resource. I am happy to highly recommend it to learning families everywhere.</p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Product:  </strong><a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Young Scholar's Guide to Composers</a><strong></strong></span></p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Company: <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bright Ideas Press</a>  </strong></span><em><font size="3"><font face="Gill Sans MT"> <strong>877.492.8081</strong></font></font></em></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Description:</strong> A full year’s curriculum on classical composers in 32 weekly lessons </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Ages:</strong> 4th-8th grade, but easy to adapt for younger ones</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Price:</strong> Book $34.95; CD-Rom $29.95</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Available: <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=1971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.BrightIdeasPress.com</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Other Products: <a href="http://illuminations.brightideaspress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Illuminations</a>, <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?page_id=2306" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christian Kids Explore Science</a> series, <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=3219" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hands-On Geography</a>, and <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?p=252" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Writer’s Workshop</a>. Many more products at the Bright Ideas Press <a href="http://brightideaspress.com/?page_id=8" target="_blank">STORE</a>.</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783393/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>The Review Crew blog</strong></a> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=55111&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>more reviews</strong></a> of this product and others from Bright Ideas Press.</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-54306727389022481762010-11-15T00:01:00.000-07:002010-11-15T00:03:52.976-07:00Corp of ReDiscovery review<p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" border="0" align="left" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Toys/CorpsofRe-Discovery.jpg" width="400" height="67" /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>I consider myself a creative mom, but I’m not a crafty mom. Crafts are just not my forte. It’s not that I find them difficult—at least not most of them. I just don’t see the need to go to all that effort and mess. Except for one simple reason—it blesses my children. And that’s reason enough. So I was thankful to get the chance to review the ready-made <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/products/Patchwork-Quilt-Kit.html" rel="nofollow"><strong>Patchwork Quilt Kit</strong></a> from the <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Corps of Re-Discovery</strong></a>.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" src="http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww95/homeschoolcrew/Toys/patchwork-quilt-1__27847_std.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></p> <h2></h2> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>The company was started by a homeschooling family who valued an education marked by adventure and exploration, so much so that they spent over a year exploring the trails of Lewis & Clark and visited 47 states with their three children. With <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Corps of Re-Discovery</strong></a>,  they have <strong><em>“created great project kits to enrich your studies of American Indians, Frontiersmen and Pioneer Americans so you, too can ‘re- discover’ America.” </em></strong>They’ve done the hard work of getting all the supplies you need into one easy-to-use kit, so you can spend your efforts on discovery and <em>not</em> a scavenger hunt at the craft store.</p> <p> </p> <h2>Our Experience</h2> <p>I received the <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/products/Patchwork-Quilt-Kit.html" rel="nofollow"><strong>Patchwork Quilt Kit</strong></a> right in time for Eventides’ 11th birthday. I knew she was the only child at my house who could tackle a handmade quilt. She was excited to get started on it. </p> <p>Let me just say that although I have a good eye for things,  I’m not gifted spatially. When directions start explaining step-by-step things I need to <em>physically</em> arrange, I glaze over like a Dunkin’ Donut. Probably not the ideal combination of skills for a quilter, for whom I now have a new appreciation.</p> <p>Fortunately for me, the kit came with almost everything needed to make the quilt:</p> <ul> <li>fabric squares </li> <li>piece of batting </li> <li>backing material </li> <li>thread </li> <li>yarn </li> </ul> <p>It doesn’t include a sewing needle, yarn needle, scissors, tape measure or the iron, but most households have these things on hand. The fabric was a super cute pattern and the quality of everything was great. The fact that all the fabric was already cut into perfect squares would be worth the price for me!</p> <p>I had to sit down with Eventide to help her get started. Although the directions explain everything you need to do, I didn’t find them to be organized in a super user-friendly way, especially for children or adults who <em>really</em> don’t know what they are doing—like me. A larger font and numbered steps would make a world of difference. That said, they do clearly tell you what to do. I just would’ve liked to concentrate <em>less</em> on the directions and <em>more</em> on the quilting. Is there such a thing as quilting dyslexia? I might have it.</p> <p>Once we got over the initial layout, the sewing and ironing began. Who knew quilting required so much ironing? We don’t iron much around here, so Eventide really enjoyed getting to use this neglected appliance while working on her quilt. Of course, I kept a close eye on this.</p> <p>Sewing all the squares by hand took us some time for sure. And I did end up helping a good bit, just to get some progress going. But it actually helped us understand how the pioneers would have spent so much time sewing in order to have quilts, clothing and things they needed. Once we got going and were able to settle into the task, we enjoyed the conversation that surrounded our sewing. I imagine the pioneer women did too.</p> <p>This blanket turns out to be the perfect size for an American Girl doll or favorite stuff animal. What a treasure it will be for her to share with her children someday—her very first quilt!</p> <p>Unfortunately, we have had computer issues and the quilting photos I took are on the sick computer. So you’ll just have to hop over to the other crew members to see how adorably theirs’ turned out. </p> <h2>My Opinion</h2> <p>I think the <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/products/Patchwork-Quilt-Kit.html" rel="nofollow"><strong>Patchwork Quilt Kit</strong></a> is a well-done kit that would help anyone get a hands-on feel for the Colonial or Pioneer era. As much as I might resist craft projects, I try to remind myself that it’s <em>these very projects</em> that my children remember and that really enrich our studies. </p> <p>Although I think the directions could use a tweak or two, overall the kit is very well put together with quality materials. Sure, you could just make a quilt without all of this, but you might fizzle out before you cut  the first nine squares. I would. Save yourself and bless your children and try this or one of the many kits from the creative folks at <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Corps of Re-Discovery.</strong></a> Take the time to slow down and connect with the period you’re studying. It will do you and your children a world of good.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Product:</strong>  <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/products/Patchwork-Quilt-Kit.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Pioneer Patchwork Quilt Kit</strong></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Company: <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Corps of Re-Discovery</a></strong></span></p> <p><font size="3" face="Gill Sans MT"><em>5329 N. Lakewood Drive, Springfield, MO  65803 </em></font></p> <p><em><font size="3"><font face="Gill Sans MT">Phone Orders (417)-833-6905 </font></font></em></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Description:</strong> Ready-to-create kit for 18” quilt</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Ages:</strong> Ten and older; Or adult directed with younger</em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><strong>Price:</strong> On sale for $11.99 (shipping extra)</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Available: <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Corps of Re-Discovery</a> website</strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"></span><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em><strong>Other Products: <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/categories/American-Indian/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">American Indian projects</a>, <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/categories/Pioneer-and-Colonial/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pioneer & Colonial projects</a>, <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/categories/Frontiersmen/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Frontiersmen kits</a>, and <a href="http://www.corpsrediscovery.com/categories/Leather-Working/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leather Working supplies</a>. Great projects for girls AND boys! </strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: gill sans mt; font-size: 130%"><em>Visit <a href="http://homeschoolblogger.com/homeschoolcrew/783354/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>The Review Crew blog</strong></a> to find links to <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=54296&type=thumbnail" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>more reviews</strong></a> of this product and various others from Corps of Re-Discovery.</em></span> <br /> <br /><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/tos%20crew" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="TOS HS Crew Animated banner Pictures, Images and Photos" src="http://i463.photobucket.com/albums/qq352/brite00eyes/TOS%20Homeschool%20Crew/c9b3da28.gif" width="450" height="58" /></a> </p> </blockquote> <h6><em>This product was given to me for review purposes, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are all mine. </em></h6> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-32193339696088340172010-11-08T15:05:00.000-07:002010-11-08T15:32:25.193-07:00How To Get a Day Off and Still Teach the Kids<p>All you need is a CD player and the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26redirect%3Dtrue%26ref_%3Dsr_nr_n_0%26keywords%3Djonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%26bbn%3D1000%26qid%3D1289253255%26rnid%3D1000%26rh%3Dn%253A283155%252Ck%253Ajonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%252Cn%253A%25211000%252Cn%253A22&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">Jonathan Park Audio Series</a><img style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; margin: 0px; border-top-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important" border="0" alt="" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" />. Play these and you can have a day off from the usual rigors of homeschooling, yet your children will be engaged in learning and adventure. Legos or some other toy to keep hands busy is an added bonus (it adds to the mindset that they are playing not learning).</p> <p><a href="<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1929241879?ie=UTF8&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1929241879">Jonathan Park: No Looking Back (Jonathan Park Radio Drama)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1929241879" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />" rel="nofollow"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="jonathan park 2" border="0" alt="jonathan park 2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TNh011rJloI/AAAAAAAABGA/od0BeskFJMU/jonathan%20park%202%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="160" /></a> </p> <p>We’ve been big fans of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26redirect%3Dtrue%26ref_%3Dsr_nr_n_0%26keywords%3Djonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%26bbn%3D1000%26qid%3D1289253255%26rnid%3D1000%26rh%3Dn%253A283155%252Ck%253Ajonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%252Cn%253A%25211000%252Cn%253A22&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">Jonathan Park Audio Series</a><img style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; margin: 0px; border-top-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important" border="0" alt="" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" /> since SonUp was younger and I own all six of the sets (the 7th in the series is coming out soon). For some reason, I never got them out for the other kids to listen to—until last week. Night Owl is having some vision issues and I wanted him to listen to something educational on CD. So I pulled out the first set, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1929241852?ie=UTF8&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1929241852">Jonathan Park: The Adventure Begins </a><img style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; margin: 0px; border-top-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1929241852" width="1" height="1" /> and as the day went on, the magnetic pull of the engaging story attracted my children like paperclips to a giant magnet. They were helpless to escape! It held them captive, and as they listened, they built tall Lego towers. The were engrossed in the story for the better part of the afternoon.</p> <p>If you're not familiar with the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26redirect%3Dtrue%26ref_%3Dsr_nr_n_0%26keywords%3Djonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%26bbn%3D1000%26qid%3D1289253255%26rnid%3D1000%26rh%3Dn%253A283155%252Ck%253Ajonathan%2520park%2520audio%2520series%252Cn%253A%25211000%252Cn%253A22&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">Jonathan Park Audio Series</a><img style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; margin: 0px; border-top-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important" border="0" alt="" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" />you’re in for a treat. It’s a creation science drama with “each adventure based on real places and scientific discoveries—all designed to build your faith!” The sets even come with a nice little study guide to help you dig deeper into the scientific and biblical facts from the audio adventures. </p> <p>They are sold by several online companies, but Amazon has one of the best prices…just $16.50 per set which usually includes over 5 hours of audio. Regularly, they retail for $25. These would make great Christmas or birthday gifts. I’m hoping to hold out and surprise them with the latest one <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933431865?ie=UTF8&tag=daindaou-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933431865">Jonathan Park: The Voyage Beyond </a><img style="border-bottom-style: none !important; border-right-style: none !important; margin: 0px; border-top-style: none !important; border-left-style: none !important" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=daindaou-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1933431865" width="1" height="1" /> for Christmas. Or maybe the next time I need a day off.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><font size="4">What are your favorite audio dramas?</font></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><font size="4"></font></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><font size="4"> </font></em></strong></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-10010026961971867012010-11-07T20:16:00.001-07:002010-11-07T20:16:14.714-07:00Plan to Save<p><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=219353&u=396423&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" target="target"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/9286/2010Plnr_140x180.jpg" /></a> </p> <p>This is a great time to save <strong><font size="4">50% off</font></strong> this great planner.  I’m a big fan of this very <a href="http://dayindayoutdayupdaydown.blogspot.com/2010/08/prepare-to-be-planning-genius.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>tweakable planner</strong></a><strong>.</strong> It’s not too late to get the homeschool year off to a great start! For more details on this deal, <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=219353&u=396423&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow"><strong>click here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-36602765326836772322010-11-04T09:02:00.001-06:002010-11-04T09:02:19.413-06:00Making It All Fit<p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TNLK9xe9EEI/AAAAAAAABF4/ByK0rf-3M14/s1600-h/MP9003096415.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="MP900309641" border="0" alt="MP900309641" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TNLK-kK4wCI/AAAAAAAABF8/bXFME-9Z2qs/MP900309641_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="316" /></a> </p> <p>In 10 years of homeschooling, this year began as my hardest year yet. Five of my six children were now in the homeschool, leaving just one toddler roaming its’ halls. Of course, she keeps me on my toes, but that part was feeling like a cakewalk compared to the actual work of homeschooling five children. </p> <p> </p> <p>As we approached day forty of our homeschool year, I realized there were several subjects we were never getting to with any regularity—history, science and geography. Except for my 13 year old (who does a complete DVD-based program), our focus this year is the basics--math, reading and writing. All the children had some areas of weakness and we determined this would be the year we strengthened them. Ironically, some of the weakness occurred because we had focused on history, science and geography in recent years to the detriment of the basics. Live and learn!</p> <p> </p> <p>With six children to keep track of, I was pulled in many directions <em>every single da</em>y. Teaching many subjects, keeping everyone on task with their independent work and checking school work, it didn’t seem possible to squeeze more into our already long days.  I made several attempts to juggle things around, but nothing was jiving. How would I find time for history, science and geography?</p> <p> </p> <p align="center">Click <a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/making-it-all-fit" rel="nofollow"><strong>HERE</strong></a><span style="font-size: 100%"></span> to read the rest of today’s post over at </p> <p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 130%"><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/" rel="nofollow">Heart of the Matter Online.</a></span></strong></p> <p> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <center><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/"><img src="http://heartofthematteronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/hotm-button-new.png" /></a></center> <p></p> <p><a href="http://www.blogger.com/&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;center&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;a%20href=%22http://heartofthematteronline.com/%22&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;img%20src=%22http://heartofthematteronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/hotm-button-new.png%22/&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;/a&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Elt;/center&%7E%7ESPECIAL_REMOVE%21#%7E%7Egt;" target="_blank"></a></p> <p></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> <p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: 130%"><a href="http://heartofthematteronline.com/" rel="nofollow"></a></span></strong></p></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-53125564748476826422010-11-02T21:25:00.001-06:002010-11-02T21:28:46.238-06:00Got Support?<p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=259624&u=396423&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="2010FallCovertiltleft" border="0" alt="2010FallCovertiltleft" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TNDWLI0QynI/AAAAAAAABF0/RKN4uWOAO94/2010FallCovertiltleft%5B5%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="183" height="240" /></a>Need some homeschool encouragement delivered to your door? Then don’t miss this really great deal--<a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=259624&u=396423&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow"><strong>$10 one-year (U.S) subscription to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine</strong></a><strong>.</strong>  This deal ends Wednesday, November 3rd. . . .so don’t wait! I couldn’t imagine homeschooling without the incredible wisdom and knowledge I get from <strong><em>The Old Schoolhouse magazine</em></strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=259624&u=396423&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow"><font color="#0000ff">Click HERE for more details.</font></a></strong></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8006523585188467211.post-36768939639926357512010-11-01T13:31:00.001-06:002010-11-01T13:32:51.404-06:00A Plan for Birthday Gifts<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TM8Vp0VREjI/AAAAAAAABFs/qfVjZRJDbkk/s1600-h/MP900314167%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="MP900314167" border="0" alt="MP900314167" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WegrFbQ30Eo/TM8VqlbJYRI/AAAAAAAABFw/g5fMLRnlewQ/MP900314167_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="196" /></a> </p> <p>Midway through this year, after several deep cleanings of the house and children’s rooms, I realized yet again that we indeed have too many useless things. Things that aren’t valued, aren’t useful or don’t develop the mind, body or spirit. No matter how often I’ve purged our belongings over many years, the stuff still creeps into our space. With just our six children, we’ve celebrated 47 birthdays!!! That’s a lot of gifts, don’t you know?</p> <p> </p> <p>We made a decision. Rather than contribute any more meaningless stuff to our family’s possessions, we’d give gifts that grow the passions in their hearts. Presents that will present them with opportunities to expand their talents and character. Whether it’s a thing or an experience, I want the gift to take them a little further on the path that the Lord has planned out for uniquely for them. </p> <p> </p> <p>Hence, the puppy for DayBreak—my animal lover who dreams of being a vet. The added bonus is that puppy is still growing character her (and me). For Eventide’s birthday a few weeks ago, we gave her a violin and lessons, something she had a desire to learn. It takes more effort on our part to come up with gifts that point our children toward their gifts and talents, but I trust God will honor our desire to invest in these little people he’s blessed us with.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><font size="3">So tell me, how do you approach birthday gifts in your family?</font></em></strong></p> Melissa @ Half Dozen Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06430350475458428772noreply@blogger.com3