Sovereignly Sustaining Sanity

The Power of Prayer...but wait...There's a Catch

2011-10-04T07:00:00.008-04:00

So Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses." ~Mark 11:22-26

WOW!

The power of prayer is transcending.

We have the ability to take

ANYTHING

before our Father, resting in His promise to hear us when we call out to Him,

and to answer our pleas according to His perfect will.

God's precious gift of prayer is our lifeline. Never should we fear, worry, stress, or be uncertain.

With prayer we are granted the opportunity to "come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

With prayer we have understanding, wisdom, discernment, knowledge, direction, and protection from evil.

Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints. Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path. ~Proverbs 2:3-9

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. ~Proverbs 3:5-6

With prayer we have a peace that passes all understanding.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7

But this power of prayer is dependent upon 2 essential ingredients:

Our faith in God (Mark 11:22-24)

and

Our forgiveness toward others (Mark 11:25-26).

Although prayer is our lifeline--our most important resource--it becomes powerless if the person praying does not believe or harbors any kind of unforgiveness.

If you pray, but do not believe God is able or willing to answer your prayer, your prayer is futile. But, if you do not doubt in your heart, whatever things you ask for when you pray--if they line up with God's perfect will, and if you believe that you will receive them--you will have them. We must judge Him faithful who has promised (Heb.11:11).

And if you pray, but deep down (or not so deep down) you are nursing a grudge, and you are harboring unforgiveness, then your Father also will not forgive you. This is not in reference to our salvation, as our position as a child of God cannot be lost. However, fellowship can be broken. And when we choose not to forgive others, God will not forgive us our trespasses, and therefore we have broken fellowship with the Father. He does not hear our prayers because our sin (unforgiveness) stands in the way. Our forgiveness of others is critical to our fellowship with our Holy Father. And a real understanding of His forgiveness toward us will naturally produce the forgiveness of others. When we see offenses against us in the shadow of the cross they seem so dim in comparison. Forgiveness should be immediate.

My pastor put it this way:

"Forgiveness is not a burden God places on us, but rather it is a safeguard for our mental health and emotional stability."

Our forgiveness allows no root of bitterness to sprout. And it keeps an open line of communication with the Father. Therefore, anxiety and worry and fear and any other kind of emotional roller coaster need not exist because we can take our requests and needs directly to the Father. We must therefore FORGIVE on the basis of the grace of God. We must FORGIVE because God, through Christ, first forgave us.

I don't know about you, but that is quite a hard pill for me to swallow.

After I read this Scripture I found myself going over and over it again.

Do I believe? Sure I believe...but do I BELIEVE? Without a doubt in my mind, do I believe that God is able, that He is willing, and that I will receive that which I ask for?

And what about that person that keeps coming up, the one that just the thought of her name gets my blood boiling? I am justified, right?? She was in the wrong. Or what about that person who was so rude in line today while checking out. Or the driver that cut me off yesterday. Or...

Oh how easy it is to get offended. And how natural it is for us to hold a grudge, to harbor that unforgiveness, to mull over a wrong committed against us.

But Christ...

But the cross...

Jesus died for all of that. And He died for you, and for me, and for anyone who may offend us today or tomorrow or 5 years from now. When you shed The Light on the situation, any offense is minuscule in comparison to the cross Christ bore for me, the wrath He endured for me, the suffering He voluntarily submitted to for me.

So today I am believing. Whatever I ask, I am believing that I will receive, because God is God. According to His perfect will, and His good plan for me, I am believing that He is able, willing, and pleased to give me the desires of my heart.

And today I am choosing forgiveness. I am not waiting for an apology. I am letting it all go. Because God is bigger. And His grace abounds. And His mercy was lavished upon me. So, as I have been forgiven, I choose to forgive.

How about you...

Do you believe? Are you asking, believing that you will receive?

Do you have any grudges you need to set free? Is your heart marred with bitterness? Do you need to forgive?

If you think it's too hard, remember...if you believe, ask...and you shall receive. God's grace abounds.

Mmmm Mmmm Monday: Spinach, Shrimp, and Feta Orzo Pasta

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Super Yummy and Healthy

and the kids LOVE it!

Spinach, Shrimp, and Feta Orzo Pasta

Ingredients:

1 cup Orzo Pasta

1 Tbsp. minced garlic (we like garlic! feel free to use less)

2 Tbsp. olive oil

10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

12 oz. frozen salad shrimp, thawed, rinsed, and drained

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

pinch of ground black pepper

2 oz. crumbled feta cheese

Directions:

1. Cook pasta in boiling water until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. In large frying pan, saute garlic in olive oil.

3. Add spinach and shrimp and stir until hot.

4. Stir in pasta and remove from heat.

5. Stir in salt and pepper. Gently fold in feta cheese.

That Easy!

Enjoy!

For more Mmmm Mmmm Monday Recipes, click HERE.

Madison and the War of 1812 & More (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week 6)

2011-10-02T16:43:00.000-04:00

This Week's Book List:

The New Nation by Joy Hakim

Our Country's Presidents by Ann Bausum

The War of 1812 by Alden R. Carter

Once on This Island by Gloria Whelan

A Visit to William Blake's Inn by Nancy Willard

Take Command, Captain Farragut! by Peter and Connie Roop

This week Kevin learned about our 4th President, James Madison. We also learned about the War of 1812, and the impact it had on our United States government. Kevin also learned about the President's House, now called the White House, since it was repainted after having been set fire by the British during this war. Kevin learned about the U.S.S. Constitution. And we learned about Francis Scott Key and the story behind The Star Spangled Banner. Kevin also learned about Chief Tecumseh and the role he played in attempting to unite the Indians to defend their land. Kevin also finished up his study on William Wilberforce this week and his impact on ending the slave trade in England.

Kevin made this American flag to celebrate The Star Spangled Banner and the War of 1812.

We also continued our work on the sun this week. Kevin used a magnifying glass to melt chocolate. He also learned about light, color, and, using his own words, "a fun little word I like to call 'thermonuclear fusion!'"

For Grammar this week we learned more about prepositions, and also conjunctions and interjections. Kevin also has started writing his first assignment for the year, this one on the three branches of the U.S. government. He worked on the rough draft this week.

We were blessed with some beautiful weather this week, so we enjoyed a few nature walks and loved seeing the leaves changing and beginning to fall. They even brought their bags along for collecting things =)

He was also very thankful that his sister learned about the letter "C" this week and that "C" is for "Cupcake" =)

Afterward, we celebrated fall by doing this cute little craft for the changing colors of the leaves.

Kevin enjoyed lots of time to be creative this week. Just for fun, he drew some pictures of dinosaurs, then cut them out, and glued them onto popsicle sticks. He said instead of asking for or buying new toys, he wanted to make his own =) What a cutie!

For more of Kevin's 3rd Grade Moments, click {here}.

We are taking our first week of school next week =) We have something VERY EXCITING AND IMPORTANT happening =) =) =) Something we have waited ALL YEAR for!

C is for Connie Cockatoo (Cheyenne, K4, Week 6)

2011-10-02T13:41:00.009-04:00

This Week's Book List:

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

Calico Cows by Arlene Dubanevich

Clickety Clack by Rob and Amy Spence

Cars! Cars! Cars! by Grace Maccarone

The Caboose who Got Loose by Bill Peet

If You Give a Cat a Cupcake by Laura Numeroff

My Five Book by Jane Belk Moncure

This week Cheyenne met my friend Connie Cockatoo. We studied the hard "c" sound this week. Connie was very careful about brushing her teeth and not eating much candy at all because she did not want cavities. This took some coaxing with Cheyenne as she LOVES her candy, but I think she is starting to catch on ;)

We own a felt board for The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the kids have always loved playing with it! It's one of those "special" treats that only comes out once in a while. Well, this week we brought it out and Cheyenne acted out the story on her board as I read it to her. She learned that "C" is for "Caterpillar" this week.

Cheyenne also learned that "C" is for "Colors" this week and we spent some time reviewing her colors. We made this cute little caterpillar, too.

We also talked about how "C" is for "Cat" and "Cupcake". Using ideas from Totally Tots, we read If You Give a Cat a Cupcake. Cheyenne loved feeding the cat his cupcakes =)

And of course she loved making her own batch as well =0)

Cheyenne also learned about the number 5 this week, and she is pretty good at writing her 5's. "Put on a hat, then take a dive, make a big round tummy, now that's a five!" =) We also learned about squares this week.

We also worked on our Alphabet Art this week, using the idea from Our Family For His Glory, we made this cute little cat with Big "C" and little "c".

Using Big Thoughts for Little People, Cheyenne learned that "C" is for "crying" this week. She learned that it's ok to cry when she falls down, or when she gets hurt. But she learned it's important not to cry for no particular reason.

We enjoyed some beautiful fall weather this week, and so we went for a few nature walks on the trails. We also made this cute craft to celebrate fall and the changing of the leaves.

For more of Cheyenne's PreK fun, click {here}.

We are taking our first week of school next week =) We have something VERY EXCITING AND IMPORTANT happening =) =) =) Something we have waited ALL YEAR for!

AlphaBitty Moments: P is for Puddles

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

She LOVES PUDDLES!!!

I am linking up with MamaBear and AlphaBitty Moments.

For more of our AlphaBitty Moments, click {HERE}.

You Capture: Green

2011-09-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

This Week's You Capture Challenge was "Green".

Take a look at our garden:

This is the first time that I have ever grown a garden. I have loved every part of it (even the weeding...I know, I'm kind of crazy!). We have cabbage, eggplant, zucchini, peppers, grape tomatoes, and cucumber. I am already looking ahead to next year and plotting out the changes I want to make. It is such a joy to plant seeds and watch them grow.

For more You Capture this week, see who's going GREEN with Beth at I Should Be Folding Laundry.

For more of my own You Capture photos, please click {HERE}.

My Magnificent Conductor

2011-09-28T06:38:00.002-04:00

"There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." ~Ephesians 4:4-6

We have been walking through Ephesians at church. Recently, my pastor gave a beautiful analogy of God being my Magnificent Conductor. I wanted to share (paraphrased, with my own thoughts added, of course) what he had to say.

God is the Magnificent Conductor of the chaotic symphony of my life! Without Him, everything is merely noise. Loud, obnoxious, noise! Without His organization, there is no harmony. Without His direction, everything is out of tune. God brings order and purpose and meaning to my life. He creates a beautiful musical masterpiece out of the sometimes messy circumstances of my life. Whether good or bad, His amazing love and grace bring all of life's moments together for my good! As He raises the baton with His nail pierced hands, He makes all things new, and my life is overwhelmed with His grace, His love, and His mercy.

Thank You, Father for giving me a hope. Thank You for calling me according to Your purpose. Thank You for doing exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ever ask or think. Thank You for Your sovereign almighty power that works in and through every step of my life. You bring beauty out of my messes. You create order in my life that could never exist without Your grace. Father, You are my Magnificent Conductor. I lift my hands in praise to You. Your symphony is beautiful, harmonized, every note in perfect order. Even when I face circumstances I do not understand, I rest in the peace that You are still in the lead, You do not rest, with You there is no intermission. Without You, I am chaos. But with You as my Conductor, the symphony of my life is a beautiful masterpiece, played for Your glory. You alone Father, are my Sovereign Director, and I bow before Your throne. All praise and honor and glory to You, God and Father of all, who is above all and through all.

Are you struggling with trying to make sense out of life's chaos today? Does your life feel out of tune? Are you unable to find peace amidst all the noise of your circumstances? God is through all, He is above all, He transcends even the bleakest situations in life. Will you call out to Him, the only One who can bring music to your life? The Magnificent Conductor stands posed, baton in hand, waiting for you to lift your eyes to Him. He is waiting for you to let Him lead.

I am linking up with

Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord? {Marriage Part 1}

2011-09-27T06:31:00.001-04:00

Marriage and Divorce.

It's a hot topic.

Not just in the world today.

But among Christians also.

And this is nothing new.

It was a hot topic 2,000+ years ago when Jesus walked this earth also.

**I apologize in advance if MY words are offensive, as this is one issue my husband and I are VERY passionate about, and I tend to get a bit worked up about it. However, I will not apologize for The Word of God, and that is solely what I hope to use to explain this burden on my heart.

The current divorce rate is HIGH. While there is a slight difference between Christians and non-Christians, it is certainly not a difference worth bragging about. Let's face it...we are a selfish people! As believers in Christ, we attempt to subdue that selfishness, but it is a constant struggle nonetheless.

And divorce is almost always a result of some form of selfishness!

In Mark 10, we read about Jesus being tested by the Pharisees regarding this very issue.

"The Pharisees came and asked Him, 'Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?' testing Him.

And He answered and said to them, 'What did Moses command you?'

They said, 'Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce, and to dismiss her.'

And Jesus answered and said to them, 'Because of the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. But from the beginning of the creation, God 'made them male and female.' 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.'

In the house His disciples also asked Him again about the same matter. So He said to them, 'Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.'"

Mark 10:2-12

People get divorced for several different reasons. Some are hardly understandable, but the spouse(s) will justify it as a reason nonetheless. I am not here to judge anyone. I only wish to shed some Truth on the ever increasing poison that is destroying families.

"But did He not make them one, having a remnant of the Spirit?

And why one?

He seeks godly offspring.

Therefore take heed to your spirit,

and let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.

'For the LORD God of Israel says that He hates divorce,

for it covers one's garment with violence,' says the LORD of hosts.

'Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously.'"

Malachi 2:15-16

God's Word is so simple. Yet we mange to mess it all up. The Truth is very clear here, GOD HATES DIVORCE!

The Bible does not say God hates divorce except when...

So then why do we feel authorized to make such exceptions?

Our Creator has a plan. He has had one since the beginning. That plan is not dependent on our circumstances. But rather, that plan is in light of our circumstances. God desires to work all things together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans. 8:28).

So the unfaithful husband, the lying wife, the selfish spouse, the "irreconcilable differences"...

God desires to work ALL THINGS together for GOOD.

The unloving husband, the disrespectful wife, the bitter-to-the-core spouse...

God desires to work ALL THINGS together for GOOD.

"But how can I love a man and stay married to him after he has cheated on me?"

"How can I trust her after all the lies?"

"He doesn't love me, he is so distant."

"All she does is nag, nag, nag!"

God desires to work ALL THINGS together for GOOD!

"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts,

nor are your ways My ways,' says the Lord.

'For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are My ways higher than your ways,

and My thoughts than your thoughts.'"

Isaiah 55:8-9

Even though we don't understand, even though it is the unnatural reaction, even though it would be much easier the other way, as His children, God commands our obedience.

He is faithful even when your husband is not.

He is Truth even when your wife is full of lies.

He is 100% selfless and giving even when your spouse is incredibly selfish.

He can reconcile ALL THINGS for GOOD even when we feel everything is irreconcilable.

He is LOVE even when your husband shows none.

He has created you in His image even when your wife does not respect you.

He is peace when your spouse's bitterness seems to have no end.

His grace is always sufficient; He is perfect strength when we are weak (2 Corinthians 12:9).

If you are His child, He has a plan for you. He has a plan for your spouse. He has a plan for your marriage. And God HATES divorce. His plan involves reconciliation, forgiveness, sacrifice, self-denial, unconditional love, patience, longsuffering, gentleness, and humility.

"With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." ~Matthew 19:26

Don't try to fix things on your own.

His plan DOES NOT involve divorce.

Remember, God HATES divorce!

Seek the Lord, He is able.

God wants to bring healing and restoration to your marriage, even in the most "hopeless and helpless" situations. He wants to grow hearts of forgiveness. He wants to give you and your spouse a heart like His, one full of unconditional love and sympathy and longsuffering and patience. He wants to teach you humility and illuminate your ultimate need for Him. He wants to create opportunities for you to blanket one another with grace and mercy as He has blanketed each of us a million times over.

He wants to turn your mourning into dancing and clothe you with gladness that the glory that shines forth as a result may sing His praises and not be silent (Psalm 30:11-12).

God wants to raise up the beauty of your restored marriage from the ashes and anoint you and your spouse with the oil of gladness, that He may be glorified. (Isaiah 61:3).

God wants to do a mighty work in your marriage. Divorce is our way of saying God cannot fix "this". He is not able. I know He is God, but He is not God "enough" for this.

Oh, today that you would believe that HE IS GOD! That you would trust Him to be God, especially during the difficult times. That you would know without a doubt that He binds up the brokenhearted (Isaiah 61:1).

From the beginning He designed us to be male and female, and to become one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let not man separate.

If you, or someone you know, are a believer and are presently in a difficult marriage, or have contemplated divorce, or have felt like your marriage is "too difficult"...

May you take comfort in God's Truth:

"Is anything too hard for the Lord?" ~Genesis 18:14

He is able.

Are you willing?

Will you choose today to obey the Father instead of give way to your "feelings"? Will you follow God's will and not man's? Will you allow Him to lavish His grace and healing upon you and your spouse? Will you be transformed by His Word and opened to His mighty working power? Will you give Your Creator the opportunity to grow your marriage into a beautiful masterpiece of His design? Will you yield to His will and trust in His faithfulness and be blessed by His exceedingly abundant grace?

I am linking up this post with Titus2Tuesdays.

***This post is Part 1 of a short series to follow. Please join me for Part 2 (coming soon), when I share the amazing work God has done in my marriage, by His grace, for His glory. "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from trouble."~Psalm 107:1-2.

Mmmm Mmmm Monday: Southwestern Turkey Tostada Bake

2011-09-26T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy MONDAY!

Here is another Mmmm Mmmm GOOD recipe.

This is so quick and easy, and super delicious!

Southwestern Turkey Tostada Bake

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 lb. ground turkey

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 cup frozen corn

1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 cup of salsa

1/2-3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 pkg. crescent rolls

1. Heat oil in pan over medium high heat.

Add ground turkey and seasonings and cook through.

2. Remove from heat and mix in corn, beans, and salsa.

3. Preheat oven to 400*

4. Press crescent roll dough into sides, bottom, and rim of 9" pie plate.

5. Fill pie plate with turkey mixture. Top with cheese.

6. Bake at 400* for 15-20 minutes, until crust is golden brown.

We served it with a little dollop of sour cream on top. Mmmm Mmmm good =)

***I have been thinking about starting a little meme for Mmmm Mmmm Monday. A chance to post your favorite recipes each week. Would you be interested in participating?

C is for Cilbert Civet (Cheyenne, K4, Week 5)

2011-09-25T14:47:00.002-04:00

The little princess adjusting her tiara =)

This Week's Book List:

Circus Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina
If I Ran the Circus by Dr. Seuss
Olivia Saves the Circus by Ian Falconer

Ballet of the Elephants by Leda Schubert

The Circus of Mystery by Maura Fazzi and Peter Kuhner

The Circus Baby by Maud and Miska Petersham

Cinderella by Scholastic, Disney

My Four Book by Jane Belk Moncure

"D.E.A.R. Time"

Drop Everything And Read

We started a new thing this week that I came across recently on another blog I follow. Randomly throughout the day, we have D.E.A.R. time and the kids get to grab a few books and sit quietly (or mostly quietly) and read. We have always had something like this at our house anyway, since both kids LOVE books, but we never had a cute little name for it.

They both love this time!

Cheyenne learned about the letter "C" this week. We specifically studied the soft sound for "C". She met my friend Cilbert Civet. Cilbert was afraid because he saw big scary eyes in the forest, and since he didn't know who or what they belonged to, he was frightened. But Cilbert learned that he didn't need to be afraid of the eyes, God is always with him, so he has no reason to fear. Cilbert's mama also taught him that he didn't need to be afraid because he could walk around the cedar tree instead of right in front of it. Once Cilbert Civet relaxed about the eyes, and realized he had no reason to fear, he found out that they belonged to an owl, not some scary monster.

Cheyenne learned that she can face her fears with confidence because God is always with her. And she learned that sometimes when she is scared of something, she can walk around it to "see what (she) could see."

This week Cheyenne learned that "C" is for Cinderella, circles, and circus.

We had a lot of fun reading and learning about the circus. To celebrate our circus theme, Cheyenne made this cute little clown puppet. I am thankful that neither of our kids have the common fear of clowns. They just find them silly, just they way they should!

Cheyenne also learned about the number 4.

This week's Bible verse was Colossians 3:20, "Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord." Cheyenne learned that when she obeys, she is not just making Mommy and Daddy happy, but she is making God happy, because she is obeying Him also. We made this handprint wreath as a reminder that when Cheyenne obeys, she is working together with Mommy and Daddy to do good things for God. The wreath is hanging up in her room, and has been a helpful reminder to her as she continues to hide God's Word in her heart.

The kids had lots of extra play time this week! Such a blessing watching them play so sweetly together. Their imaginations are amazing, and together, they are UNstoppABLE!!

We finished off our week by watching Disney's Cinderella. That made for one happy little princess =) And her brother didn't mind it much either ;)

For more of Cheyenne's PreK excitement, click {HERE}.

I am linking up with Raising Memories, No Time for Flashcards, and ABC and 123 Show and Tell.

Jefferson and the Supreme Court (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week 5)

2011-09-24T22:15:00.001-04:00

This is what I "caught" Kevin doing the other day while he was supposed to be playing outside. He grabbed Daddy's Bible, and took a seat and started reading Genesis 1 since he was surrounded by God's beautiful creation!! Oh I love the work God is doing in his sweet little life!

This Week's Book List:

The New Nation by Joy Hakim

Of Courage Undaunted by James Daugherty

Our Country's Presidents by Ann Bausum

A Visit to William Blake's Inn by Nancy Willard

Wilberforce: An Activity Book by Andrew Edwards and Fleur Thornton

The Supreme Court of the United States by David Heath

Rocky Mountains by Wayne Lynch

The Sun: Our Nearest Star by Franklyn M. Branley

This week Kevin learned about Chief Justice John Marshall. Marshall was the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He was Thomas Jefferson's cousin, although the two men detested one another because of their political ideas. Kevin studied the Supreme Court and the responsibilities it holds. He also learned about Marbury vs. Madison and judicial review.

Kevin also learned about the Three Branches of Government, checks and balances, and separation of powers. We especially covered the Judicial Branch in more detail. However, while studying the executive branch, Kevin had a bit of a "revelation" and said, "Mom, Daddy is part of the government!! Awesome!!"

We finished reading Of Courage Undaunted this week, and therefore finished learning about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. What a great book to cover in very illustrative detail the findings and adventures of this journey.

One of Kevin's assignments this week was to plan a vacation to the Mississippi Valley. He flipped through travel booklets from Mississippi, Louisiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas. From those 5 states, he chose to plan his vacation to Kentucky. His assignment was to plan out a 7 day vacation. We also reviewed another family's vacation to Louisiana for a day, and Kevin was able to calculate their costs for the day, which came to $200, excluding travel and hotel expenses. Kevin was able to study different tourist attractions for New Orleans, as well as sharpen up his math skills. This was a great illustration of how thankful we should be for times we are able to take vacations, because they are not cheap!

Kevin also started learning about William Wilberforce. After reading about this man of God, and watching Amazing Grace, Kevin was really moved by his determination and perseverance. Wilberforce took on a cause that has forever impacted our world. With his passion for freedom and equality, after years of pushing and debating, he finally saw the passing of a bill to end the slave trade in England.

Recently I came across a blog that had an idea for D.E.A.R time. "Drop Everything And Read". We have always kind of done this already, usually when Mom needs to cook dinner, or the kids just need a few minutes to settle down. But, we have never had such a cute name to refer to this time as. So, this week we started incorporating D.E.A.R time into our days. The kids LOVE it!

Our homeschool group participated in an archaeological dig this week for one of the local universities. We were given a small kit with soil that the university had collected from a NY man's yard after an entire skeleton of a Mastodon was dug up (while he was trying to dig a swimming pool). The kids were able to be archaeologists for a day and explore a bit of earth to see what they could find. Kevin found 6 shells and a root ;)

Kevin and Daddy also continued working on plans for Kevin's invention project. We should be all ready to assemble it by the time Dad gets home =)

For Science this week we began our lesson on the sun. Kevin learned about solar flares and sun spots. He learned about revolutions and rotations. And he learned the dangers of looking directly into the sun. Unfortunately we were not blessed with enough sunlight this week to do our first activity. Hopefully we will be able to melt chocolate using a magnifying glass next week.

For Grammar, Kevin was introduced to graphic organizers. He has started the "pre-writing" process for a small assignment he will work on over the next few weeks. This week he used a cluster diagram to list details about the three branches of government. Next week he will begin the "rough draft" phase of writing for this assignment.

We also studied Adverbs. =)

And this week we managed to squeeze in lots of PLAY time! By God's grace we have been finishing better every week, and this week was the best so far. We had extra time leftover this week, which was quickly gobbled up to play with one another!

For more of Kevin's 3rd Grade Moments, click {HERE}.

AlphaBitty Moments: O is for Observant

2011-09-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

These 2 are very observant!

I love how they are so in tune with the world around them,

even if it is primarily made up of creepy~crawlies!

And HUGE spiders!

I am linking up with Mama Bear with AlphaBitty Moments this week. Will you join us?

For more of my AlphaBitty Fun, click {here}.

Teacher, I Bring You My Children

2011-09-22T07:13:00.000-04:00

And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them.

Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him.

And He asked the scribes, "What are you discussing with them?"

Then one of the crowd answered and said,

"Teacher, I brought You my son,

who has a mute spirit.

"And wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I spoke to Your disciples, that they should cast it out, but they could not."

He answered him and said, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to Me."

Then they brought him to Him. And when he saw Him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth.

So He asked his father, "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood.

"And often he has thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."

Jesus said to him,

"If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes."

Immediately the father of the child cried out

and said with tears,

"Lord, I believe;

help my unbelief!"

When Jesus saw that the people came running together, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it: "Deaf and dumb spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter him no more!"

Then the spirit cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, "He is dead."

But Jesus took him by the hand

and lifted him up,

and he arose.

Mark 9:14-27

I do not pray enough for my children!

Instead, I work tirelessly at trying to "fix" issues in their lives. Trying to change them. Trying to be their "God" and convict them of their sin.

This has been burdening my heart lately. And then I came across this Scripture the other morning, and God opened my eyes to His beautiful Truth.

Verse 17 sung out to me.

"Teacher, I brought You my son."

This man knew how to help his son. He brought him to Jesus. And he does not refer to Jesus as Healer, which our Savior is often called, or even Lord, but the man called Him Teacher.

Not only did this man bring his son to Jesus, the only One he knew could help him, but he brought him in hopes that Jesus would teach him how to help his son.

This father was desperate. He was at the end of his rope, so to speak. He had no doubt sought out out countless other options, as we learn that the boy has been suffering this way since childhood. The man even sought help from Jesus' disciples. Yet, because of their own wavering faith, they were unable to cast out the demon. This desperate father had nowhere else to turn.

So he turned to Jesus.

Yet, still not confident in the mighty power of God, he said, "If You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."

Jesus, the Lover of our souls, knew this man's heart. He said to him, "if you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." Jesus knew the man had already shown a leap of faith by bringing his son to Him. However, Jesus also knew this man still had significant unbelief.

Yet, if we can believe, ALL things are possible!

That's all it takes! All I need to do is believe.

Believe that God is sovereign.

Believe that God is faithful.

Believe that God keeps His promises.

Believe that God is working out ALL things for my good, and the good of my family.

Believe that God has His loving hand in every part of my life, and the lives of my children.

Believe that God is good, ALL THE TIME!

This father believed and yet knew his belief was imperfect. He cried out to Jesus to help his unbelief. He cried out to the Teacher.

Lord, teach me to believe.

Lord, teach me to bring my children to You, and to believe in Your incredible power to supply all that we need no matter what situation we face. Lord, teach me to grasp hold of Your grace and cling to Your hand each step of the way. Lord, heal the wounds I have inflicted in my children as I have tried so tirelessly at "fixing" them. Lord, help me to believe that all things are possible to him who believes.

Lord, I lift my children up to You. And I rest in Your sovereign plan for their lives. And I am blessed in the confidence that You are working great and mighty things out for their good.

Teacher, I bring You my children.

And I believe.

B is for Bucky Buffalo (Cheyenne, K4, Week 4)

2011-09-18T21:27:00.001-04:00

This week we learned about the letter "B".

This Week's Book List:

The Berenstains' B Book
B is for Books! by Annie Cobb
The Big Balloon Race by Eleanor Coerr
The Lamb and the Butterfly by Arnold Sundgaard
Berlioz the Bear by Jan Brett
Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
The Baby Beebee Bird by Diane Redfield Massie (Army)

Bugs! Bugs! Bugs! by Bob Barner

Cheyenne met my friend Bucky Buffalo. Bucky Buffalo "went to buy some bread but bought a banana split instead." While learning about the sound of "B", Cheyenne also learned about putting others first, and looking for opportunities to please them instead of pleasing ourselves. She learned that selfishness leaves us feeling sad in the end, even if it seems like it would taste really good at first, like as a good as super-duper yummy banana split.

This week we also learned that "B" is for "bug". We spent some time coloring butterflies and bumblebees. And Cheyenne had fun crafting this cute little bumblebee out of the letter "B".

Cheyenne also learned that "B" is for Butterfly.

Using Jolanthe's printables over at Totally Tots, we practiced counting this week with numbers up to 10. I cut out several little bumblebees and Cheyenne needed to put one bumblebee on each pollen. As the bumblebee landed on the pollen she counted. =)

After we spent a few days counting bumblebees and pollen, Cheyenne made a collage out of the letter B and glued on all the bumblebees.

Cheyenne also had some hands~on fun making the letter "B" with her playdough.

We also learned about the Number 3 this week. She is pretty good at writing 3. "Around the tree, Around the tree. That's the way to make a three." She has also been practicing her 2's, and is getting better each time =)

This week we had lots of fun painting and just getting "artsy". This is Cheyenne's picture of the sun.

And we had some fun with Alphabet Art, thanks to Jessica and her adorable ideas! This week Cheyenne made a butterfly out of "B" and a boat out of "b". We "painted" our pictures by blowing colorful soapy bubbles onto the poster board. This one was a bit messy, and Mom lost her patience half way through, but they did manage to finish their projects despite my freaking out about the chaos of bubbles and food coloring everywhere ;0)

Kevin even joined in this week =)

This week we learned that B is for Behave. And we behave when we do what it right and when we obey Mommy and Daddy.

Cheyenne also memorized Matthew 5:9 this week. As we are going through My ABC Bible Verses, by Susan Hunt, she has loved the little stories that go along with each verse. This week learning about being a "peacemaker" honestly couldn't have come at a more perfect time! Cheyenne and Kevin have been quarreling like crazy these past few weeks, so this verse really helped her understand what role God wants her to take when arguments and quarrels come up.

Cheyenne learned that God says, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." We made this cute little reminder for her to hang up in her room =)

For more of Cheyenne's preschool fun, click {here}.

I am linking up with

Jefferson and the Louisiana Purchase & More (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week 4)

2011-09-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

This Week's Book List:

Our Country's President's by Ann Bausum

The New Nation by Joy Hakim

A Head Full of Notions by Andy Russell Bowen

The Louisiana Purchase by Elizabeth D. Jaffe

Of Courage Undaunted by James Daugherty

A World of Knowing: A Story About Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet by Andy Russell Bowen

This week Kevin studied Thomas Jefferson and the Louisiana Purchase. Kevin was able to start piecing together the information we have been learning about France and Napoleon with our United States history. He learned that because of the state of France's government, Napoleon was very eager to sell their share of land in North America, what they called Louisiana. Thomas Jefferson first sought to only buy New Orleans in order that we could have free access with this booming port of the Mississippi River. But in the end, Jefferson purchased the entire Louisiana Territory from France for $15 million. This purchase had a HUGE effect on our country's future! Kevin also learned that of several things that Thomas Jefferson had engraved on his tombstone when he died, interestingly being the third President of the United States was not one of them.

This week we also read a book about Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, the pioneer of American Sign Language. Gallaudet established the first school in America for the deaf, and was himself the principal.

Probably the most exciting thing we did this week was finish up Kevin's model of the Solar System that we started last week.

Kevin was able to reinforce his mnemonic phrase for memorizing the location of the planets in relation to the Sun.

My Very Eager Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas

Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto

We did our best with size proportions, but we knew even attempting at distance proportions was going to be ugly. So, we really just focused on putting them in their correct position from the Sun. Ultimately the biggest lesson Kevin learned was that no matter what we did, it was not going to be perfect! That is why ONLY God could have created the universe! And what an AWESOME CREATOR HE IS!

This week we also worked on Moving West Pocket 3, "Exploring the Wilderness."

Kevin has had a lot of fun this week learning about all the different animals that Lewis and Clark discovered and encountered on their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. Grizzlies, rattlesnakes, and more. As part of the Moving West Pocket, he made this animal mobile.

Kevin also enjoyed working on his President flash cards. So far he has made a card for each President we have covered: Washington, Adams, and Jefferson.

We also added another State Card to our collection this week, by adding Ohio.

And just for fun this, we watched a National Geographic Documentary on the White House. Afterward, Kevin said that if he becomes President some day, he is going to double the secret service and eliminate the gate. That way people can go into the White House freely, just like they used to. Cheyenne had her own plans for change. If she becomes President some day, she is going to paint the WHITE house PINK! ;)

For Grammar this week, we had some fun as we "unpacked" some adjectives =)

Kevin and Daddy also continued working on his invention project. So far he has a name for his invention , a rough sketch, and a tentative list of supplies he will need. And some experimenting is in the works. I will give more details later. =)

To get caught up with Kevin's 3rd Grade adventures, click {here}.

AlphaBitty Moments: N is for No Fear!

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be joining along with Mama Bear and AlphaBitty Moments again!

I am picking up where I left off last, so this week we are on the letter N.

N is for No Fear!

Cheyenne has NO Fear when it comes to toads, frogs, bugs, spiders, worms, slugs, or whatever other slimy or creepy thing you can think of. This little princess is definitely not afraid to get up close and personal with these little creatures!

Ewwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!! This is one trait she definitely does NOT get from me! I swear she has even tried to kiss one before, but I caught her just in time! Who knows what she's done when Mama wasn't looking?!?

Want to know more about AlphaBitty Moments and join in on the fun? Head on over to Raising Cubs in a Campground and check out the details.

For more of our AlphaBitty Fun, click {HERE}.

You Capture: Apples

2011-09-15T14:17:00.003-04:00

Mmmmmm....

We LOVE Apples!

For more YOU CAPTURE fun go see what Beth and all her friends are up to this week!
For more of My YOU CAPTURE posts, click {HERE}.

Wordless Wednesday (At the Park)

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

For more Wordless Wednesday Fun click {HERE}.

One of THOSE Days

2011-09-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days that you wished was over before it even began?

That was me the other day...

It all started Tuesday night actually. That's when my garbage disposal broke because I may have put one too many apple cores through it after a late night of peeling and coring and chopping countless apples to freeze for later. But, the garbage disposal didn't just quit, my sink decided to back up also. That's when I literally threw down my towel and went to bed, literally. I just didn't care. It was too late to have maintenance come to fix it that night, even though they would have because they define a clogged sink as a priority, and will be out within 3 hrs of a call. But the last thing I wanted was some creepy maintenance guy in my house late at night with my husband 5,000+ miles away and my kids (and guard dog, lol) tucked away in pleasant dreams upstairs.

It could wait til morning.

Which only means that my morning started off "broken"..."in need of repair"..."waiting on maintenance".

It was also a morning when I had a million and one things to do already. Self~inflicted wounds, of course. My own to~do list, not necessarily that of My Father.

School

Grocery Shopping for a few items I forgot to get last time

Cheyenne needed her shots

She got 4 =(

It was a walk in appointment only

We had to wait =(

Ice cream for the brave little girl

School

Wait for Maintenance

All while fighting a massive headache, practically a migraine, the kind that is so bad that every single blink feels like daggers in your temples. The slightest muffled sound is magnified to the umpteenth degree.

Yeah...It was one of those days!

One of those days that only seems to happen when Brian is gone.

Those days never seem to exist when he is home. I am sure they do, but somehow his being here makes it all better and then the bad days don't seem to matter.

All I wanted to do was complain. My attitude was awful. My face was worse. I could feel the distorted frown on my face all day, my forehead seemed permanently creased in the middle from that disgruntled look I had been wearing.

It was the perfect day for a pity party!

And I started to throw one. A very elaborate one. One that was sure to make the neighbors jealous!

BUT GOD...

These 2 little words just keep coming back at me over and over again.

My pity party was in full swing, BUT GOD whispered softly. So softly, that with all my "partying" going on, I almost didn't hear Him. The music of MY own selfishness and the pollution of MY own whining were almost drowning Him out.

But His still small voice managed to get through to my stiff-necked heart.

All the annoyances and malfunctions that were happening to me were 13 too many to be coincidences. It was much more than chance...

He was testing me.

Sadly, I failed. I gave in to wallowing in my pity. I sunk down into feeling sorry for myself. I wore the sign that read "IT'S NOT FAIR!"

But even in my failure, I have learned. Though I once was blind, now I see. Oh, I am so thankful for the powerful, abundant, merciful grace of God that continuously reaches down and touches ME!

Recently, our Pastor said that, "whenever I complain about my circumstances or situation, I am really complaining about my Heavenly Father. For it is He who orders all my days."

WOW! That was challenging! That statement was a real tough one for me. I am still having a hard time digesting it. I tend to be a bit of a complainer (ok, a lot of a complainer). I view the world through pessimistic lenses 8 times out of 10.

But God does not allow situations into my life so that I have a hobby. These annoyances are not permitted my Sovereign Lord so that I have something to complain about.

God allows these irritations that seem almost unbearable at the moment, and usually tend to be completely irrelevant 5 hours later, for His testing ground. He desires that, by using my life and all the circumstances, situations, mistakes, and hardships that come along with it, that I may be a trophy of His grace. That through my life and difficulties, others will see me broken, but not defeated. And they will want to know why?

"That in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus."~Ephesians 2:7

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."~Ephesians 2:10

He created me for His purposes, not my own. He designed me to glorify Him, not myself. He formed me to serve Him, not me. So all the irritations, annoyances, stresses, that I come up with in a given day, are more often than not, nothing at all. They are all a part of His plan for me. They are all an opportunity to glorify God in the midst of whatever reality of life I am in.

I will praise You, for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made; [fn] Marvelous are Your works, And [that] my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, [And] skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When [as yet there were] none of them. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! [If] I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You. ~Psalm 139:14-18

So, next time I seem to be having ONE OF THOSE DAYS...

Oh, that I will lift my hands in praise to the One who ordered such a day for me. Oh, that I will rejoice in EACH and EVERY day that the Lord has made, AND BE GLAD IN IT!

Mmmm Mmmm Monday: Banana Toffee Mocha Chip Muffins

2011-09-12T20:48:00.006-04:00

I saw this recipe a few days ago and knew immediately I was going to make it!! Although I slightly modified her original recipe, Jocelyn is always posting some sort of yummy concoction, so head on over to Inside BruCrew Life and check out what she has to tempt your tummy with this week =)

Banana Toffee Mocha Chip Muffins

1 cup butter (room temperature)

1 1/4 cup sugar

1 egg

3 ripe bananas (smashed)

2 Tbsp instant coffee

1 Tbsp warm water

1 tsp vanilla

2 1/4 cup flour

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup chocolate chips

3/4 cup toffee pieces

Preheat oven to 350*.

Dissolve instant coffee in warm water and set aside.

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg, banana, coffee water, and vanilla.

Mix well.

In a medium bowl, stir together salt, baking powder, baking soda, and flour.

Slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients.

Mix well.

When ingredients are fully incorporated, stir in chocolate chips and toffee pieces by hand.

Fill muffin liners 3/4 full and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Remove from muffin tin immediately and let cool on wire racks.

Makes 18 muffins.

I made these to bring to our Ladies' Bible Study last week...they were a huge hit!

Mmmm Mmmm Good!

This week I linked up with

Early Industrial Revolution & More (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week 3)

2011-09-11T22:11:00.001-04:00

This Week's Book List:

The New Nation by Joy Hakim

A Head Full of Notions by Andy Russell Bowen

Diary of an Early American Boy by Eric Sloane

Going West! by Carol A Johmann and Elizabeth J. Rieth

This week we covered the early industrial revolution. Kevin learned about several different inventions and inventors that helped to change daily life in the early 1800s. We covered the early textile factories and the benefits and drawbacks of the industry. He has been specifically fascinated with Eli Whitney's Cotton Gin and Robert Fulton's perfection of the Submarine and also his invention of the Steamboat.

And he reconstructed his own water wheel out of legos.

This week begins the first of many weeks that we will work on an invention project. Over the next several weeks Kevin is going to become an inventor and actually come up with and create his own invention. It took a little deliberation about whether we should have him actually invent something or just do a project or display on a specific inventor or invention. But Kevin has such spirit...such creativity...such a wonderful imagination...so inventing it is! We are still in the very rough stages of what this project will consist of, more details will follow.

We also worked on another Moving West Pocket. This pocket covered the New Frontier, Daniel Boone, George Rogers Clark, and the Northwest Territory. Kevin also learned about daily pioneer life in an interesting way. He made illustrations for a journal of an imaginary little girl named Kitty.

Kevin pretended like he was the captain of a steamboat this week. He made a log for a day in the life of a captain. Then, he decided it was too cool to stay on paper, so he wanted to act it out =) This is Kevin acting out 1:00 p.m. "I see our destination." "Land HO!"

For Science we finished up lesson 1 this week, "What is Astronomy?". Kevin made a mini book all about Astronomy and the interesting facts he learned about it these past 2 weeks.

He also recreated Stonehenge using modeling clay.

We also made a model of our solar system this week using homemade modeling clay.

We are still waiting on our planets to dry, and then we will be painting them and hanging them in the correct order. I will post the pictures of the finished solar system at a later date. For now, here is the recipe for homemade modeling clay, which was super easy to make.

Homemade Modeling Clay
(Should be made ahead of time, as it requires cooking and needs time to cool)
Materials:
Saucepan
Wooden Spoon
2 cup salt
2/3 cup water
1 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup cold water
Food coloring
Waxed paper for playing surface

Directions:
1. Cook salt and 2/3 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat, stir frequently for 5 minutes, until salt dissolves.
2. Remove from heat.
3. Add cornstarch, 1/2 cup cold water and food coloring.
4. Stir until thick and let cool.
5. Knead the modeling clay on a counter lightly dusted with cornstarch until it is the right consistency for playing.
6. Lay waxed paper on the surface for playing.
7. Keep dough away from carpet and furniture.
Store the modeling clay in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. Place a damp paper towel or sponge in the container to help keep it moist.

For Math this week one of the activities we did involved using our geometric shapes to determine how much a specific object was worth. So, Kevin needed to cover each shape on paper with exactly 5 geometric shapes. And then, given the fact that each triangle was worth $1, he needed to determine how much money each shape on paper was worth. He had a lot of fun evaluating each shape.

For Grammar this week we talked about verbs, the different parts of speech, and the writing process. Kevin also learned more about prepositions and what a prepositional phrase is.

My little writer also took it upon himself to write a book. =) An all~out chapter book! It's a cute little book about the life of a secret agent. Mommy already proofread it for him, so once he finishes his corrections, I promised him we would go to the craft store and buy a blank book so it can be official =) More details to follow once we get that far.

This week Kevin also finished his paper mache apple that he started working on last week, just for fun!

And this is just some random sweetness that I am rewarded with! He is just like his daddy, leaving me little love notes all over the place. This one was stuck on my bedroom door a few nights ago!

For more of Kevin's 3rd Grade Adventures, click {Here}.

A is for Arby Armadillo (Cheyenne, K4, Week 3)

2011-09-10T08:00:00.001-04:00

That is a very serious "thinking" face!

And that tongue that comes out when she is concentrating =)

Kevin is the same way!!

She loves writing her letters and numbers.

And I am noticing a change in her coloring lately.

She is much more attentive to staying in the lines.

Playing with the Lite Bright

This week has been a little bit less disciplined. We have gotten through all that I wanted to, but with Labor Day on Monday (even though we did squeeze in a little school that day!) and Cheyenne getting 4 shots this week, which hasn't been very pleasant for her, our school days have been a little less structured, and more pieced together as the time or mood allowed.

Our books this week:

The Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall

How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman

How Do Apples Grow? by Betsy Maestro

Little Rocket's Special Star by Julie Sykes (This book was a sub for On the Moon by Anna Milbourne which I had ordered from the library through interlibrary loan but did not receive in time, so we used what we had at home instead when we were talking about Astronauts).

The Lady with the Alligator Purse by Nadine Bernard Westcott

This week we finished up the sounds for "A", and Cheyenne met my friend Arby Armadillo. She learned that God made armadillos with a special shell of armor to protect them when they are afraid or need to hide from their predators.

I love how quickly she is learning and picking up the sounds. She has been doing really well with reviewing what we have covered in the previous weeks also. And she has been able to pick out the specific "A" sound for that week in a word, even if the sound is in the middle of the word.

We spent this week catching up on things we didn't cover the past 2 weeks. I didn't do a lot of activities with Cheyenne on the "A" for "armadillo" sound, mainly just what was included with the ACE curriculum.

Instead this week we learned more about apples. The books we read on apples this week were super cute, but also super informative. I must admit, I learned things about the way an apple grows and the different parts of an apple that I never knew. Then we had some fun and used an apple to paint with finger paint. I cut the apple in half and Cheyenne used it as her "paintbrush".

This week Cheyenne also finished her paper mache apple that we started last week.

We also learned about astronauts this week. Even with our last minute substitution for the book, Cheyenne still had a lot of fun learning about astronauts, drawing one of her own, and pretending to be one. I got the idea from Totally Tots of making moon rocks. We took several pieces of paper and wrote different letters on them, including several uppercase and lowercase "A"s. Then I crumpled up all the pieces and scattered them on the floor. Cheyenne pretended she was an astronaut and was on a mission to only find the "A" moon rocks.

Cheyenne also had fun this week creating her own moon! We formed a moon out of playdough. Then, again from an idea I got from Totally Tots, Cheyenne made a flag using a couple "A" stamps and an "ant" stamp. Cheyenne stuck her flag in her moon, and we are letting it dry.

This week we also talked about alligators, and Cheyenne loved the story of The Lady with the Alligator Purse. After we read the book, we had some fun and made an alligator out of the letter "A". We got this idea of "Letter Art" from Our Family for His Glory. This is something we are going to use all year as well, for each different letter.

She also made the lower case "a" to look like an apple. So cute!

One of the books we will be using all year is Big Thoughts for Little People by Kenneth N. Taylor. This week we discussed that A is for Asking. Cheyenne learned that God wants us to talk to Him, and that we ask and talk to God when we pray. She learned that we can pray anytime and anywhere because God always hears us, and He always answers our prayers.

I think we have made quite a bit of progress on "2". She is getting much better. She loves the rhymes for each number! "Around and back on the railroad track, Two...Two...Two". Cheyenne had some fun creating the number "2" out of playdough this week also (as well as the number "1" and the letter "A"). It will still take some time for her to write her "2"s more accurately, but it will come eventually. We are moving on to "3" next week.

We finished our week of everything "A" by taking a walk "A"round the block!

For more of Cheyenne's Pre-K Adventures, click {here}.

It Makes It All Worth It

2011-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

This is one of the BIGGEST reasons I love that we homeschool our children!

This is what I walked in on them doing the other day while they were told to play quietly.

I love the freedom we have to "do school". I love the values we are teaching our children day~by~day. I love the relationship they are building that will last their lifetime. And I love the learning that takes place in so many ways, with so many different methods, almost none of which involve sitting at a desk, with pencil and scantron ready.

It's the little moments like this, that make all the other pull~your~hair~out moments worth it! Sure, homeschooling can be stressful. It is certainly hard work. But, it is capturing these sweet little moments that makes me love every second of it, even the difficult ones.

You Capture: Summer Sunsets

2011-09-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

This week's You Capture challenge was Back~to~School or Summer Sunsets.

Since I write enough about school already, I knew I needed

a refreshing glimpse of

God's handiwork this week.

So thankful for the challenge to get out and admire how

incredibly

amazing

My God is!

There is NONE like Him!

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." ~ Psalm 19:1

I am linking up with Beth over at I Should Be Folding Laundry.

Wordless Wednesday (At the Cider Mill)

2011-09-07T09:30:00.000-04:00

The kids and I at The Cider Mill last week

We also got to take in the beauty of this waterfall!

Happy Wednesday!!!!

Where are You God??

2011-09-06T13:37:00.004-04:00

I have been thinking more about how often I choose blindness. We have been studying Ephesians at church, and we recently covered Ephesians 2:11-22.

Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh--who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands--that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

I have sometimes wondered, "Where are You, God?" I know I am a Christian, I know I am His child, yet sometimes I don't know He is there. Is that because He isn't there? Does He sometimes leave my presence?

Most assuredly not!

It is not Him, but me!

I am Blind by Choice. He is right there in front of me, beside me, all around me, but I choose not to see Him and all that He is doing.

Sin separates us from God. So, when "I feel" all alone, or when "I feel" like He is not listening, or when "I feel" like He is nowhere near me...it is not because He has left me. He has promised never to leave me.

For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So we may boldly say" "The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" ~ Hebrews 13:5~6

And He ALWAYS keeps His promises!

So then it is I who have left Him. When "I feel" as though I have been separated from Him, I need to examine my life...

Sin separates.

It is also important to understand that my "feelings" are irrelevant to the constant grace and love of God. So even when "I feel" alone, or "I feel" like He is not listening, or "I feel" like He is nowhere to be found, he is still always there.

He is still magnified in love and abounding in grace.

And He is always the same.

He is always there, waiting for me, whether "I feel" like He is or not.

My feelings (especially as a woman!) are so ridiculously unpredictable! BUT MY GOD is so incredibly predictable! He is ALWAYS THE SAME!

My Pastor put it this way: "A man is godless because of choice. God does not remove Himself from man, but man removes himself from God."

But Christ came to bridge that gap of separation. He Himself is my peace and has broken down the wall of separation (Ephesians 2:14). Through the cross, Christ reconciled us to the Father (Ephesians 2:16). In the eyes of God, our sin no longer separates us from Him because Jesus bore our burden.

So when I am distant from God, it is not because of Him, but because of me. It is my careless disregard of the cross. All I need to do is repent of the sin that is keeping me from His presence, and believe in His grace that has already paid my penalty for it. And then step out in faith, with arms wide open, and boldly go to My Father. He is waiting. I am the only one keeping myself from Him.

Gracious Father, please forgive me for building a wall between You and I, a wall that Jesus has already broken down. Please forgive me for allowing my sin--my choices--to keep us apart. Lord, give me a heart that desires more than anything to be close to You. And Father, I pray for the grace that only You can supply. The grace that will give me the strength to reach for You, no matter what "I feel" like at the moment.

Do Everything

2011-09-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

I love this song!!!

What an awesome reminder.

No matter what it is, no matter how mundane the task we think we are completing...

We can do EVERYTHING TO THE GLORY OF THE ONE WHO MADE US!

There is nothing better than that.

There is no joy greater than that beautiful contentment.

There is no greater accomplishment.

There is no higher calling.

That's one reminder the Lord knows I need to hear over and over.

I am so thankful He put it in someone's heart to sing about!

Do Everything~ Steven Curtis Chapman

What has He called you to?

And with what attitude are you doing it?

Napoleon: The Man and His Career & More (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week 2)

2011-09-04T13:08:00.009-04:00

This Week's Book List:

Napoleon by Lucy Lethbridge

Of Courage Undaunted by James Daugherty

Diary of an Early American Boy by Eric Sloane

The Louisiana Purchase by Elizabeth D. Jaffe

The Louisiana Purchase: From Independence to Lewis and Clark by Michael Burgan

Pride and Prejudice adapted by Fern Siegel

This week with TOG we covered Napoleon in more detail. Kevin learned how Napoleon was a very proud man, even to the point that he literally crowned himself emperor at his own coronation ceremony, usually something done by a more significant person in attendance. We specifically focused on how quickly Napoleon built his empire, and how quickly he soon lost it!

We have also begun learning about The Louisiana Purchase, as it relates to Napoleon. We will focus more detail on it in the next few weeks as we study Thomas Jefferson in more detail.

And we have also been continuing our study of Lewis and Clark and their exploring adventures. I love watching the books come alive in Kevin's eyes as he reads! He has been so excited as we read about the encounters these explorers had with Indians, and surviving winter, and how they hunted.

This week we also briefly covered Neoclassicism and Ludwig van Beethoven. Kevin's favorite Beethoven piece is Moonlight Sonata.

We also spent some time labeling maps for Geography this week. We specifically labeled a map of the world, focusing our attention on the oceans and continents. We also labeled a map of Europe. Then Kevin had some fun studying latitude and longitude this week. He learned about the Prime Meridian and the Equator, and had some fun looking for specific points on an early map of the Western United States.

He also finished up his salt map project from Last Week.

"Kevin's World" =)

According to Kevin, in this world there is no pain and suffering, and they have the bluest apples that taste like the juiciest blueberries, and also the brightest, reddest "blueberries" that taste like the most delicious apples you have ever tasted!! =)

For fun this week, we forfeited one of his Math lessons, and Kevin played some Math games online. That was one negotiation he was happy to make!

For Grammar we continued learning about prepositions, and we even played "Preposition Bingo" on Friday to help him memorize each one. We talked about Pronouns, too. It amazes me how much learning something with music makes all the difference, no matter what your age!

We also started Science this week. We will be using Apologia's Exploring Creation with Astronomy this year. This week we began Lesson 1. Kevin learned what Astronomy is, and that by exact definition, he himself is an amateur astronomer. Kevin learned the importance astronomy serves as our calendar, as God designed the planets, moons, and stars so we could tell time, know the seasons, and count the days and years. Some other topics we covered this week are: birds' instincts to fly south in winter and north again in summer, gravity and gravitational pull, Nicolas Copernicus, Galileo, NASA, and the Hubble Space Telescope. Next week he will be building his own model solar system...you won't want to miss that!

Just for fun this week, Kevin made a paper mache apple. Cheyenne was making it because we studied apples this week. And of course, what kind of 8 year old boy doesn't want to have some fun getting messy and creating something at the same time?!?

This week we were blessed with the opportunity for 2 different field trips. On Monday, we visited the Museum of the Earth. On Friday, we visited the Cider Mill. Even though the mill wasn't running that day, we had lots of fun tasting all the goodies and taking a tour of our own through all the equipment. And it was fun just to go out with friends! And of course, you just can't go wrong with apple doughnuts!!

We had quite a week, full of lots of excitement and learning! However, there are still some things we didn't get to this week that I plan to cover next week. (I think we may make up some time on the holiday....shhhhh, don't tell anyone). ;-)

I am so thankful for our flexibility as homeschoolers, and that we are allowed that opportunity!

For more of Kevin's 3rd Grade Excitement, click {here}.

A is for Abbie Antelope (Cheyenne, K4, Week 2)

2011-09-03T20:52:00.009-04:00

Wow this week has been challenging! Poor Cheyenne has not gotten as much Mommy School Time as she did last week, which makes both of us a little sad. We have had several other things going on; between field trips, and Mommy starting a new Bible study, and technology catastrophes, and all the rest of life thrown in there, this week has been exhausting, and I think we are all glad it is over. Such a drastic change from last week. But, that is life, right?!?

We did squeeze in some school each day though, so I am trying not to complain. It wasn't as much as I had originally planned for, but again, that is life, right?!? I must admit though, I am so very thankful that I have decided to blog about our school weeks. By the time I finish my post, I really feel a whole lot more accomplished as I look at everything we really did learn that week.

Some books we used this week are:

Ten Apples up on Top! by Dr. Seuss

Alligator Shoes by Arthur Dorros

Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing by Judi Barrett

So this week Cheyenne met my friend Abbie Antelope using the ACE curriculum. Last week, we learned that A reads "A" like "Aging Ape," and this week we learned that A reads "A" like "Abbie Antelope." Abbie had a tendency to rush through things, always wanting to do something super fast. Abbie thought that getting something done quickly was always the best way to do it! That is until her mother taught her that "haste makes waste." Cheyenne has been repeating that phrase over and over all week long. Along with singing Abbie's song about her friend Andy. "The antelope went by so fast, he lost his hat as he went past."

To keep with our "short A" theme for the week, we read books about animals, and ants, and alligators. And we also studied apples, although I still plan on spending some more time with apples next week.

For our craft (we only got to work on one this week), we made an apple out of paper mache. Cheyenne loved getting so messy! I seriously questioned my judgement by the time we were done ;) But hey, it's a small price for the cost of learning! And she had tons of fun, too!

However, this isn't your traditional apple! Not only is it much larger (for fun~size purposes of course), but it is also mainly pink, with a bit of purple and red detail put on at the end.

Such a proud little artist!

We were also blessed with the opportunity for 2 field trips this week. On Monday, we visited the Museum of the Earth with our Homeschool Group. On Friday, we went with several of our friends to the Cider Mill. Unfortunately, the mill wasn't running that day, but we did get to walk through on our own tour and look at all the equipment and machinery. And of course, we had some apple cider, and bought some very sour apples, and the kids enjoyed some yummy apple doughnuts (which alone made their field trip a huge success!). The mill is located right next to this beautiful waterfall.

Mmmmmm...we love apples!

(and doughnuts!!!)

This week we were working on the number "2". It is certainly more challenging than "1", although she is catching on fast! I think we will stay with "2" again next week, just to make sure she's got it down. Does anyone have a favorite rhyme they use for drawing the number?

When I need time to work with Kevin, Cheyenne does several different things on her own. One of her favorite things is working on her puzzles. She is really getting fast too!

So, that's it for our week with Abbie Antelope and "short A." Even though our week was different, Cheyenne amazes me with how much she really picks up. It is such a blessing to watch her learn!!

For more posts about Cheyenne's PreK adventures, click {here}.

This week I linked up with ABC and 123!

Our Trip to the Museum of the Earth

2011-09-02T21:48:00.009-04:00

We were so blessed this past week to take a field trip with Our Homeschool Group to the Museum of the Earth. Although the museum was highly evolutionary, the kids (and I) still learned so much, and loved all the different ways to explore new things.

We had so much "hands~on" learning

The kids were able to look for their own fossils.

Kevin found 2 on one piece of rock!

No matter what the Museum based it's theories on...we were so amazed at the Truth, that our Awesome God created such wonderful things!

We LOVE field trips!

You Capture: Peace

2011-09-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

It's been quite some time since I participated in the weekly

You Capture Challenge.

Here's my attempt at getting back in the game.

This week's challenge was to capture "Peace".

I managed to catch this beautiful scenery as part of a field trip

we took this week with our Homeschool Group.

I couldn't help but breathe a little easier at the sight.

Isn't Our Creator AMAZING??!?

For more on You Capture, click {here} and join in on the fun!

Blind by Choice

2011-08-31T06:27:00.003-04:00

Brian and I have been reading through the Gospel of Mark. This morning I came to the point when Jesus walked on water. This is such a powerful incident on its own, however, it is the last 2 verses that really stuck with me.

" Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened." ~Mark 6:51-52

Oh, these poor disciples and the bad rap they usually get. Yet, this is so like ME.

This group of men had been walking with Jesus for quite some time now. They had seen Him heal countless people, cast out demons, teach such powerful messages, perform amazing miracles. Specifically, this story of when Jesus walked on water directly follows His feeding the 5,000+. The disciples had just witnessed one of the most talked about, most otherwise impossible, most incredible accounts of Jesus' miracles. With only 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread, Jesus fed 5,000 men, plus women and children. And as if that wasn't incredible enough, after everyone had eaten until they were full, 12 baskets of leftovers were collected.

The disciples had a front row seat! They saw everything, not just with the feeding of the 5,000+, but all the other miracles Jesus had performed along their journey thus far.

Yet, here we see their reaction. They didn't understand, because their heart was hardened. Not because it was a questionable incident. Not because they were not permitted to see. Not because it happened apart from them. They were right there, responsible for passing out the food and collecting the leftover baskets at the end, and yet they didn't understand what had happened because their heart was hardened. They were blind by choice!

It was like I read "but {you} did not understand because {your} heart was hardened."

God has performed countless miracles in my life. Jesus has supplied immeasurable grace just for me. The Holy Spirit dwells with me by the second, to guide me and teach me and fill me with peace.

So then why is it that I sometimes feel so lost? Why is it that I allow myself to become overwhelmed with the cares of this world? Why do I often forget about the power of the universe living inside of me? Why do I easily brush off the power of the cross, and the mighty saving hand of God? Why do I see such awesome works of mercy and grace and love in my life from the One Who has fashioned all of my days, and yet still not understand that He is always with me? Why do I choose blindness?

Because just like Jesus' disciples, my heart becomes hardened. Even though I have witnessed the awesome things He has done just for me, the incredible blessings He has lavished just on me, the amazing love He so freely gives just to me, my heart still becomes hardened.

Oh Father, mold my heart to see Your love. Open my eyes to see Your grace. Teach me to believe Your constant presence. Forgive me for my hardness of heart.

Introducing...

2011-08-30T20:56:00.006-04:00

My husband

Guess what??!?

He has entered the blogging world!!

Please head on over to

"Shepherding the Heart of My Family"

The blog is aimed at our kids, but it is open to the public. Go take a peek and see what he has to say. And while you are there, show him some love and support and become a follower. It's always nice to get some feedback, even if you are not necessarily writing for that purpose. I promise, you won't regret it!

Mmmm Mmmm Monday: Mexican Goulash

2011-08-29T10:00:00.001-04:00

I threw this together the other night for dinner, just using what I had from the garden and a few other things right on hand. Feel free to add some of your own ingredients, or alter some of the ones I used, it is Goulash after all. Although, I have to be honest...it is absolutely perfect as it is!

Mexican Goulash

(Serves 6)

2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 lb. ground turkey

1 1/2 tsp. chili powder

1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. italian seasoning

1 Tbsp. minced garlic

1/4 cup water

1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 pint grape tomatoes, halved

1 medium size zucchini, chopped

3 cups cooked rice (I cooked mine in beef stock for added flavor)

Brown ground turkey in pan with extra virgin olive oil, seasonings, and minced garlic

over Med-High heat.

Add water, black beans, grape tomatoes, and zucchini. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

Add rice and combine all ingredients. Cook until heated through.

Serve. Eat. Enjoy. Smile.

And don't forget to come back and leave me a comment if you try it.

When John Adams Was President & More (Kevin, 3rd Grade, Week1)

2011-08-28T18:36:00.003-04:00

This Week's Book List:

The New Nation by Joy Hakim

Napoleon by Lucy Lethbridge

Of Courage Undaunted by James Daugherty

Diary of an Early American Boy by Eric Sloane

Trial and Triumph by Richard M Hannula

The Kings & Queens of England & Scotland by Plantagenet Somerset

This week we studied about when John Adams was President of the United States. We especially focused on how much influence European conflicts played into his term as President. And Kevin learned that despite being one of our "Founding Fathers", he tended to favor the way things were run in a Monarchy rather than a Democracy. Adams was into "big government", as was Alexander Hamilton. His chief objector, Thomas Jefferson, was just the opposite, and believed the people should govern themselves.

We also studied Napoleon and the rise of his early career. Kevin loved reading his biography so much, that he begged me to finish the book early (instead of finishing next week). We also spent some time studying the French Revolution and the guillotine (of course!). Kevin found it both shocking and amusing how elaborate the European Nobility and Royalty were with things like dress and living quarters.

We have also started reading about Lewis and Clark. Kevin loves the adventure in their expedition! I love watching his eyes light up when we are reading about their encounters with the "Natives", or how they had to check for rattlesnakes by their pillows and blankets every night.

This week Kevin learned about reading a map and some geographical vocabulary words. However, he didn't just learn the words and fill in the blanks on a worksheet. Kevin created the words. He made his own salt dough map. Next week, once it hardens, he will paint it. He created an isthmus, a peninsula, a reservoir, an archipelago, a mesa, a plateau, 2 mountain ranges, a tributary, and so much more!

He also spent some time this week making state flashcards. So far we only have the first 16 states, and more will be added as they become part of the United States.

Kevin loved "school" so much this week that he was actually sad on Saturday because we wouldn't have work to do. He all but pleaded that he be able to work on his Moving West Pockets. Being the awesome Mommy I am, I gave in ;)

Then, we spent some time studying William Carey, missionary to India, known as the Father of Modern Missions. Kevin was encouraged and challenged by the story of this man's life and all the awesome things God did through him. He especially appreciated his humility, and how Carey did all he could to direct his praise and honor back to His Savior. He wouldn't stand for receiving credit for something that was not his doing, but that of his Heavenly Father's work in his life.

Kevin was very excited to score 100% on his first Spelling Test of the year. He was a little nervous about "notation", but I knew my Spelling Bee champ would pull through!

He especially appreciated our study on Prepositions and Nouns. I think you may too:

Tapestry of Grace is known as K-Mom Education. It is so true! I have learned so much this past week, while reading right along with Kevin. We are both so excited about what next week will hold. I hope you are too, as you continue to follow us on this Classical Journey through the 19th Century (and more).

A is for Aging Ape (Cheyenne, K4, Week 1)

2011-08-28T12:47:00.006-04:00

This week we started with the letter A, specifically long A.

Cheyenne met my friend, Aging Ape. Yes, she really does think he and I are friends ;) We learned all about Aging Ape and his other Ape friends. Apes and Monkeys are different because Apes do not have tails, and Monkeys do.

We learned about sharing and using manners and being polite. Aging Ape was prone to taking the biggest piece of food, and not necessarily the one closest to him. He also ate and ate and ate. This week, Cheyenne learned just how using bad manners affects those around us.

For more on Aging Ape, and our other alphabet friends, you can visit Accelerated Christian Education online by clicking here.

Here is a fun little puppet we made for Aging Ape.

To follow along with our Long A theme for the Week, we also learned that A is for Angel. Using the suggestions from Totally Tots, we read Christmas Angels by Gwen Ellis. Then we made this cute little angel out of the letter A. Cheyenne learned that just like angels were there when Baby Jesus was born, they are here now, watching over us and protecting us. Even though we cannot see them, angels are everywhere.

This week we also learned that A is for Acorn. We read From Acorn to Oak Tree by Jan Kottke, as well as Dot & Jabber and the Great Acorn Mystery by Ellen Stoll Walsh. Then we went on a nature walk to search for acorns. Cheyenne was slightly disappointed that we couldn't find a single one. However, we did find several hickory nuts, as well as a bunch of other things she was able to fill her basket with and explore when she came home.

Cheyenne also worked on lots of puzzles. And we learned about the Number One. And we did lots of this:

Finally, using My ABC Bible Verses: Hiding God's Word in Little Hearts by Susan Hunt, we learned that "A soft answer turns away wrath."~Proverbs 15:1. Cheyenne learned how our soft words can be more persuasive than harsh or mean words. And we also learned that even if someone is mean to us, or talks rudely to us, we should still only have soft words from our mouth. Our love and kindness to them may even help in changing their attitude toward us.

We illustrated "soft" and "love" by making this super soft, heart-shaped pillow. It has been very effective with her all week, she loves to lay on it, and it reminds her to say that short and powerful little verse out loud.

All week long Cheyenne has been reciting her Memory Verse, and singing, "The Aging Ape was out of shape because he ate, and ate, and ate, " and saying, "Ape reads A, A, A. 'A' reads A, A, A."

I love watching her learn, and I love listening to her digest it all!

I'd love to hear some ideas you have for Long A.

And We're Off...

2011-08-27T21:34:00.004-04:00

Our first week of school was a huge success!

I was nervous about it and how everything was going to play out. I have been planning all summer, and as the time drew closer, I was so anxious and worried that we would be taking on far more than we could chew. I was scared that we would be stressed, and never able to get everything done.

After our school year last year being so stressful, so hectic, I always felt like I was desperate to keep from sinking, but never thriving. We started late, and very last minute, so we were desperate to seize hold of curriculum, and I spent the majority of the year just "winging it." We were drowning in textbooks and never~ending worksheets. Plus, with Brian being gone, it was certainly difficult, to put it mildly.

So naturally, even though I spent all the time planning over the summer, and even though we decided to go a completely new route with our teaching methods and curriculum, I couldn't shake the thought of the year being exhausting and hazardous. As much as I tried, I couldn't help but think it was going to end up in a disaster at some point.

But, WOW what a difference! We are only 1 week in, and already I am in love with the curriculum we are using, I am in love with the Classical Method for Learning, and I am in love with homeschooling again! I have found such joy just in this one week in just being with my children, watching them learn and discover and create and explore. Nothing can compare to that little light that shines in their eyes because they are learning and having fun at the same time. I am so thankful and blessed for the opportunity to be a part of that, to share in that responsibility.

Here is what we will be using:

For Kevin (3rd Grade):

Tapestry of Grace, Year 3

TOG is "An award-winning homeschool curriculum: a plan of study that helps parents provide a Christian, classical education using a guided unit study approach, with the history of the world as the core organizational theme. From Grades K–12, all students cycle through world history every four years, with all ages studying the same slice of history each week, each at their own learning level."

I stumbled across TOG's website early last spring, and I immediately fell in love. There is so much hands~on learning, and reading of classic literature, and lots of writing, all relating to the history of the world.What's not to love?

We chose to go with Year 3: The Nineteenth Century, because it begins relatively where we left off with our history textbook last year. The facts that we are using Year 3 and Kevin is in 3rd grade are completely coincidental.

For Science we are using Apologia's Exploring Creation with Astronomy. From a Biblical standpoint, with an Apologetics twist, Kevin will be learning about Astronomy. The whole year will be dedicated to studying our solar system, with lots of hands~on activities, and plenty of experiments.

For Grammar we are using Easy Grammar 3 (which he loves telling people!) and Daily Grams 3, as well as the writing assignments that are incorporated into TOG weekly.

For Math we are using Saxon Math 3. I love the way Saxon lays out their lessons, and I appreciate the fluidity of each one.

For Health we are using the library as our main resource.

For Music and Art, we are incorporating it as it fits. Whether with TOG and studying famous composers of that time period or art styles that were popular at that specific time, or on our own, by creating our own art and music.

For Cheyenne (K4):

I have designed my own curriculum to use with Cheyenne that I have borrowed bits and pieces from here and there. We are following along with Ace and Christi using ACE's 1st grade Reading Program. I have altered the lessons down to her level. It is a wonderful program, and Kevin took to it so well when he was in Kindergarten. Each letter sound has an animal that represents it (Aging Ape, Abbie Antelope, Arby Armadillo, etc.). And each animal has it's own story and song.

I am also using ideas I have gathered from several blogs I follow, especially Totally Tots: Now I Know My ABCs. I love how she designs cute little unit studies for each letter, using a children's book as the main source of information, and then coming up with several fun activities to go along with each book.

We will be doing lots of reading, and coloring, and crafting, and learning through play.

Cheyenne's "curriculum" is pretty simple. She is only in 4K this year. My main goal with her is that she would begin to sit still and be able to pay attention. Learning her letters and numbers and other things will come, but her lessons are very informal, and almost exclusively hands~on.

I hope that you will join us on our journey. I am real excited about what God wants to do for us this year. I am fully aware that it is only by His grace alone that this week has gone so magnificently, and I have all the confidence in Him that He will continue to supply all the grace we need for a Christ~centered, God~glorifying homeschool year.

I will be posting shortly about just how successful and awesome Week 1 really was!

Stay tuned!

Return to Blogging, but First...An Update

2011-08-27T07:48:00.004-04:00

March was the last time I posted anything.

We have been very busy. Our summer has zipped by!

But unlike most people, that makes us very happy! Because we are that much closer to being reunited with our soldier. Less than a month and a half to go to be exact!

Oh, the butterflies are flying like crazy inside me!

So many emotions, so much anticipation, so much excitement about being a whole family again.

And the kids are even more excited!! Kevin can't wait to wrestle and do other "guy" stuff with his Dad. And Cheyenne is looking forward to tea parties and tickle~fests with her Daddy.

And I don't think I need to even mention the swirl of emotions Brian is under right now. Nothing bad, all very good! He is so excited to be coming home.

Other than that, not much else new. Life is life as normal in our world.

So, now that "The Update" is out of the way...

I have missed sitting here and writing like I used to. Yet, I am still so busy! Despite all my hopes, time has not started growing on trees. But, I think I have come up with a way to blog more often amid by hectic, busy life.

I will be posting about our homeschooling adventures. This is going to be a great way for me to document what we cover, as well as scrapbook, so to speak, projects we make, field trips we take, lessons we learn, and excitement we share. Sure, I will post other topics throughout this journey, including My Life as an Army Wife, Things the Lord is Teaching Me, Recipes, and Occasional Rants and Rages about Anything I Feel Like at the Moment. But at least documenting our homeschool journey will get me back into the swing of things, and give us something to look back on in years to come, as well as allow us an opportunity to share our ideas and activities with the greater homeschool community. Plus, my brain has an opportunity to digest, and I have an outlet to express through writing. It seems like a win/win to me.

I hope you will continue to follow me on this journey of life that My Creator has fashioned just for me. Different seasons, different times, different obstacles, different challenges, different interests, but all the same life, the one He chose just for me, according to His purpose. This is still my attempt to make sense of it all.

Oh, and I have an added a spot on the right side-bar that allows you enter your email address and receive an update every time I create a new blog post. Please feel free to enter your email address, that way you don't miss anything =) And I promise, I won't give it to anyone!

Stay tuned!

Put in the Fire for the Sake of Prayer

2011-03-06T14:33:00.000-05:00

It has been quite some time since my last post.

We are all doing well. We are only weeks away from R & R at this point, and are so excited to be together again as a family, even if just for a little while.

Each one of us is staying busy, the kids and I are especially looking forward to Spring and a break from all this snow! It has certainly piled up for us, and we will be very thankful for a change of scenery!

Not much else to report.

I wanted to share this video with you. We were snowed in from church yet again this morning, and I came upon this sermon from John Piper. It was incredibly awakening for me! I so appreciate John Piper, and his boldness for Christ, and his unwillingness to beat around the bush when delivering the Gospel message. I hope you are as inspired to make some changes in your prayer life as I have been!

God's Blessings to YOU, and thank you for stopping by today =)

P.S. Despite the lack of posts on my end, I have been doing my best to keep up with yours =)

Put in the Fire for the Sake of Prayer

Merry CHRISTmas, Happy New Year, and a LONG OVERDUE Update!!

2011-01-03T22:08:00.000-05:00

Merry CHRISTmas 2010!!! And a VERY Happy and BLESSED New Year!!!!!!

(Hey, I'm only a few days late!)

I was discussing with a fellow blogger recently how much I love blogging. Sadly, we both are in the same boat, along with many others I am sure...

I love blogging so much, but it comes down to time, and it seems like when life is really interesting, and therefore there is lots to write about, there is also very little time to do so because life is so interesting...

It's like a circle, it never ends...

Anyway, so that is my excuse for being absent from the blogosphere lately. And here we go...I have updates to prove it!

BRIAN:

Brian is doing very well so far. He is safe, he is healthy, and he is busy. Those are all good things! So far, we have been able to communicate every day, at least by email. He misses us and misses home, but that kind of just goes without saying. We have been so blessed with our communication being as often as it has been so far!

He has already been receiving several packages, which are such a blessing to him! Needless to say, because of the generosity of so many of our family and friends, he's pretty popular right now =) He has been sent boxes of toiletries, baked goods, candy, movies, books, snacks, encouraging notes...all addressed to Brian (obviously with his intent to share generously in mind). And he has such a great opportunity to do so with those around him because of the love being shared with him from so many others right now. And even more importantly, he has a perfect opportunity to share the Gospel and Love of Jesus with them too.

Care packages are good, VERY good, an awesome morale booster for Brian and all the other soldiers. If you are interested in sending some goodies or necessities their way, please let me know, I can get you the necessary information.

Please pray for Brian's safety and health. Please pray for an optimistic attitude and that he would feel the comfort of our love even 1/2 a world apart. Please pray that God would wrap His sovereign arms around him and Brian would feel His awesome presence even in the darkest and driest places of that desert. And please pray that Brian would seize every opportunity that God gives him to share His Gift of Life and Hope with others. So far this has been quite difficult for Brian, since he is surrounded by hardened hearts and many false beliefs on eternity.

The Rest of Us:

God is really doing amazing things for us! I am confident that this year will be such an awesome period of growth for us on so many levels, both separate and together. The kids and I are blessed and thankful for each day spent together, even in ALL the snow! While this time of year really makes us miss our time in Virginia, especially this day and this day, we are loving our new “assignment” just as much.

We are keeping very busy with many different things. Church activities, Bible studies, homeschooling, Cub Scouts, Sesame Street, reading, playing, growing, inventing, creating, doing puzzles, dancing, building forts, and just loving life.

We miss our soldier more~and~more every day, and we have good days and not~so~good days, but our Rock, our Hope, our Consistent Strength, is Unfailing and Always the Same...and we are leaning on God every day to minister the grace to see us through.

And we MADE IT THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS! Honestly, a few times, I had my doubts we could, but we did, by GOD'S AMAZING GRACE we did!

*******

November marked our one year anniversary since embarking on this new adventure called ARMY. God has been teaching us so much, and it has been such a blessing to see His plan for our family unfold day~by~day. We have learned so much about ourselves, as well as so much about our relationships with each other. We have learned that we are capable of things we never could have dreamed of. We have learned that with God, truly ALL things are possible! We have learned that where we are weak, He is so very strong! And, we have learned to trust Him more~and~more every day to lead the way and establish our steps.

(Taken a Year Ago)

“Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers together the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name.

GREAT is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite.”

Psalm 147:1~5

Warm Feet

2010-11-01T00:30:00.001-04:00

Happy November 1st!!!!! Boy am I glad that October is over!!!

So, apparently my blog was featured in making this video montage as a tribute to Military Spouse Bloggers. I was never notified, so it's kind of weird to me. But a fellow blogger posted the video on her page and as I was watching it I thought the picture of the praying hands looked familiar, and sure enough, I watched the end credits and (even though they spelled the title to my blog wrong) Sovereignly Sustaining Sanity is listed as a contributor.

Kinda neat...but kinda weird too that like I said, I may have never seen it unless I happened to stumble on it because of someone else. But, I guess when you have your stuff online, it's accessible to anyone, and NO ONE needs your permission. Just another reason why OPSEC is so important, especially for Military Spouses!

Anyway, enjoy the video. And feel free to click HERE to get more information about the sweepstakes that they are running. Basically, they are sending 50 random ThermoSole rechargeable heated insoles to 50 soldiers currently deployed to Afghanistan during the bitter cold months, if I read it correctly anyway.

I don't know much more information about their program. But, it seems like it's worth checking out =)