Happy Thanksgiving

WINTER BREAK!

It has been a little over two weeks since my last post. Why? We have been working so hard trying to get our school work done so that we can take our winter break (Nov-Dec). We do not take a summer break because it is just too darn hot to go outside so we do school. It was a little rough but we got it done. Hopefully, I will be posting more regularly now.

Eric the Circle

Physics based drawing game featuring Eric the Circle. Use Mouse to Draw/Erase. Arrow Keys to move

Eric the Circle

Scripture Memorization

I have a very hard time memorizing Scripture. I think it has to do with age. :-) I saw this system and I thought I would try it out and see if it would work. If you have used it, let me know what you think.

Scripture Memory System

What my girls did in AHG on October 18?

The Explorers are getting ready for a fashion show next week. The fashion show will satisfy a requirement for their My Style badge. Curly decided what year she was going to represent. The peasant look of the 70's. Hopefully, I will be able to get pictures next week.

Tenderhearts finished their Joining Award lapbooks. This is important because new AHG have to complete the Joining Award before the can receive any other badges. This award is to help them get to know what it means to be an American Heritage Girls. Once they have received this award, they can start earning other badges. Once they earn the Joining Award, they do not have to repeat it, in the future.

I would like to thank the AHG member who made this available for all the troops to use. 

Angel got her Joining Award last year but have a fun time making the lapbook.

We added the picture on the cover and talked about the AHG Mission Statement (Satisfied Requirement #6)

The left flap has information about flag etiquette.

This satisfied requirement #8. I also added a picture of the Joining Award Patch.

The center section had the history of AHG and the Oath. 

I added a little informational sheet on the requirements to be a Tenderheart.

History of AHG satisified requirement #9.

The girls had to memorize the Oath to satisfy requirement #1.

This allowed us to learn the AHG Salute and Sign and when to use them. Satisfied requirement #3 and #4.

 We talked about each section of the creed.

 The inside right hand flap was the AHG Creed. (Satisfied Requirement #2)

Wrote a Scripture reference on the inside (these are in the handbook on page 16-17).

I think the girls had a good time making this. It reinforced the information to the girls that already have their Joining Award, as well as helping the other girls earn this badge.

Kids of Courage

 Kids of Courage

What is Kids of Courage?
The Voice of the Martyrs publishes Kids of Courage (formerly LINK) materials for children 5 to 13 so that families and schools can include children in learning about and serving the persecuted church. Kids of Courage publications are committed to:

1. Educating students about courageous Christians and countries that restrict Christian worship.
2. Encouraging students toward greater spiritual growth by giving them examples of those who are risking all for Christ.
3. Providing practical opportunities for students to pray for and aid today’s heroes of the faith.

What is The Voice of the Martyrs?
Richard Wurmbrand, a pastor in Communist Romania, was imprisoned for a total of 14 years because of his Christian activities. When his wife, Sabina, was also imprisoned for three years, their 11-year-old son, Mihai, was left alone to take care of himself. A few kind Christians helped him.
After Pastor Wurmbrand and Sabina were released and left Romania, they started a ministry in 1967 to inform Christians about the needs of their persecuted brothers and sisters around the world, and to help persecuted Christians and their families. The ministry, Jesus to the Communist World, was later renamed The Voice of the Martyrs. Today VOM works in more than 50 countries through its International Christian Association of mission offices.
What Kids of Courage resources are available?

• The Kids of Courage quarterly newsletter was launched in 1996 to inform children about Christians who stand firm in their faith even when it isn’t easy. The testimonies of struggling believers have strengthened the faith of thousands of kids and families. Selected issues are available on www.kidsofcouragemag.com.
• Bold Believers activity books include 40+ pages of stories, photos, activities, and cultural information about one topic or country. Many of the books are available for free download at www.kidsofcourage.com, or for purchase at www.vombooks.com.
• The www.kidsofcourage.com website supplements The Voice of the Martyrs newsletters with activities and stories related to recent information in VOM publications, plus additional material for children, parents, and teachers.
• The VOM bookstore features other resources for families and children.
• The Kids of Courage VBS curriculum introduces students to real Kids of Courage at risk for their faith today in five countries: China, Egypt, Nigeria, North Korea, and India. Students learn how bold believers around the world live, worship, and play. The lessons teach children how to pray for those who risk everything for their faith, and how to become Kids of Courage themselves. They learn that Kids of Courage: Trust God, Get Prepared, Remember Persecuted Christians, Forgive Others, and Witness Boldly. For more information and samples, visit www.kidsofcouragevbs.com.

Aren’t children too young to learn about such sensitive topics?
Kids of Courage materials convey the struggles endured by persecuted Christians without including graphic descriptions or photos, or age-inappropriate concepts. Nevertheless, parents and teachers are encouraged to preview the materials before sharing them with their own children, as they know their children best.

Feedback received from parents, teachers, and children since the children’s newsletter started in 1996 has indicated that Kids of Courage materials are educating and encouraging children in appropriate ways. Additional feedback about any of the materials is welcome.

Why Commas Are Important

How did we do this week in school?

This week was not too bad. Angel is still behind in her math but we are slowly catching up. The weekly schedules are working well. Curly does real well on her own but Angel still needs some supervision. That's ok. We are working on becoming more independent in our schooling.

Curly has transitioned well into middle school work. I have not started science yet. We take our "summer" break in November and December. We will do a very modified schedule -- about an hour of school a day (some math and reading). This time will allow me to get the school reorganized and ready for the start of the year.

Have a great week.

Movies on YouTube: High Noon

I did not know that you could download movies from YouTube. Many for free. If you have RealPlayer, you can click the Download This Video button that pop up on the upper right hand side of the video and it will be saved to your computer (usually to the Download folder). Very cool. This does not just work for YouTube videos but most videos on the internet.

Enjoy Gary Cooper in High Noon.

OK, you've homeschooled through high school--now what?

I want to qualify this post with the disclosure that I have not used these programs--yet. But I have been researching this because I have a young lady who will be preparing for college in the next couple of years. If she chooses to go to college, I believe this will be the route we will take.

College Prep! 

College success begins by understanding your life purpose, earning dual credit in high school, and knowing how to secure college scholarships.

And those who will succeed in the emerging knowledge-based economy will know how to think critically and solve problems. 

CollegePrep! is the proven program that develops high school students who succeed in college and are equipped with the competencies demanded by employers.

College Plus! 

CollegePlus! is a revolutionary Christian based distance learning program helping students earn their fully accredited bachelor’s degree in a fraction of the time and cost of the traditional university system.

CollegePlus! is an innovative blend of study skills courses, CLEP and other exams, on campus courses, and online classes with one-on-one coaching to bring a student's long-term vision and academics together in harmony.

Flexible study gives students the opportunity to complete their degrees while gaining invaluable experience in their chosen career field through internships and work-study programs. This flexibility also allows CollegePlus! students to take ownership of their education by tailoring their studies to their passions, interests, and abilities.

Instead of fitting into a semester schedule, students study whenever it is convenient for them as they balance college, work, and ministry responsibilities. Despite this freedom, CollegePlus! students typically finish their fully accredited degrees in two years or less.

CollegePlus! students also focus on developing a biblical worldview as they complete their degrees. They are challenged to develop a foundational worldview perspective through reading and listening to works from Doug Phillips, Gary DeMar, and other Christian leaders.

What my girls did in AHG on October 11?

The Tenderhearts had show-n-tell tonight. It was so cute to watch them share some of the badge requirements that they have completed and just some special things they brought from home. Angel shared a constellation model she made with a tin can and a flashlight and her cast.

Curly continued to work on her My Style badge with the Explorers. She had to show the paper doll fashions she made and also a fashion time that included  4 generations of her family.

Some of the paper doll clothes that Curly designed.

Fashion timeline with her Great Grandma Dot and her Grandma, Dawn and . . .

her Mom and a beautiful picture of herself.

Calvary Chapel's Bible Curriculum

Calvary Chapel's Bible Curriculum

There are three main purposes for creating the curriculum on this site:

1. To provide a Bible study lesson which follows the Calvary Chapel “distinctive” of teachingverse by verse. (This also trains the children for their eventual transition into the sanctuary.)
2. To support and encourage those serving in the Children’s Ministry by providing the “basics.”
3. To be a blessing to those who desire a true Bible-based curriculum with no financial burden.

(There is NO COST whatsoever to access the curriculum.)

Little Ones Curriculum
This curriculum is designed for 3 - 6 year olds. It consists of 53 lessons, alternating between the Old & New Testaments, with more studies to come. The focus is to implant Biblical truths in these little one’s hearts and minds, that they may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Crafts to come in the future.

Calvary Chapel Children’s Curriculum (English & Spanish)
This curriculum is for 1st – 6th graders. It consists of 325 Bible Studies:
163 in the Old Testament and 162 in the New Testament.

Calvary Chapel Children’s Curriculum: The REVISION Project
This is a revision of the above curriculum. Please keep this project in prayer! There is much time and resources that are needed for the completion of the revision. There will be a change in the style, new coloring pages, and activity pages. A general face lift will occur.

CAMP Curriculum
This 8-study curriculum has been designed for 3rd – 6th graders and can be used at camps, VBS, or mid-week services. The 3 completed curriculum are “Sowing to the Spirit”, “God’s Love”, & “Grace Changes Everything”. We are presently working on “Faith: Pleasing God”.

AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!

This had been a hard week with our homeschooling. I have not been feeling well. Sinuses -- ugh. We are trudging through and hopefully will be back on track next week.

Pinterest

This is such a neat concept. I would recommend anyone to check it out.

Pinterest is a Virtual Pinboard. 

Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.

Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests.  (from their website)

I love Pinterest. It is a cool way to organize information from the web. It also is a neat way to find cool sites that other people have found on the web.

BBC Shakespeare: Animated Tales

BBC Shakespeare Animated Tales: 

Animated adaptations of many of Shakespeare's plays are available on YouTube.

What did we do in AHG?

Tenderhearts are still working on our joining award.

 We practiced folding the American flag. (We ran out of time last week).
 

Me and Angel folding the American flag.

 

We learned the AHG Mission Statement.  "Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country."

 We learned the history of AHG.

 We are almost finished with our Joining Award Lapbook. Thank you AHG for providing this wonderful resource.

 Next week, we are having show and tell time.


Curly is an Explorer this year. They are working on the My Style badge. She made a paper doll and designed three outfits for her. They are working on a fashion show. She is not sure what time period she would like to dress for.

180 Movie

This is an awesome movie. I would recommend everyone to watch this.

WARNING: This video does contain some graphic images. Please preview before showing to children.

We are trying something new . . .

I am giving the girls their assignments for the entire week on Monday and then they can complete their alone work in any order that they want. My oldest has had no problem working independently but my youngest is very dependent on me telling her what to do.

I am hoping that this helps her become less dependent on me telling her what to do. So far, it seems to be working well. I think that I was creating the problem. When she had to do the work herself, she did. When she knew that I was there for her, she always needed help--she would not even try to do the work by herself.




Next week, I am going to give a specific school hours. Say 10am to 3p (that would include an 30 minute to 1 hour lunch). If they choose to dawdle during those hours, then they loose their privileges (Wii, special tv or movie, dessert, etc) for that evening.

This week went pretty good. I think it was a lot less stressful for all of us.

How to Continental Knit.

Cavalcade of America: Old Time Radio Show

The Cavalcade of America is an anthology drama series that was sponsored by the DuPont Company. It was initially broadcast on radio from 1935 to 1953, and later on television from 1952 to 1957. Originally on CBS, then later changing to NBC, the series pioneered the use of anthology drama for company audio advertising. The Cavalcade of America documented historical events using stories of individual courage, initiative and achievement, often with feel-good dramatizations of the human spirit's triumph against all odds. This was consistent with Du Pont's overall conservative philosophy and legacy as an American company dating back to 1802. The company's motto, "Maker of better things for better living through chemistry," was read at the beginning of each program, and the dramas emphasized humanitarian progress, particularly improvements in the lives of women, often through technological innovation.

Tonight at American Heritage Girls . . .

We had a great night with our Tenderhearts. We are still working on the joining award requirements. Tonight, we learned the Buddy System and the AHG Creed. We were supposed to learn how to fold the American Flag but ran out of time. We will do this next week.

There are only 8 girls in our Unit. It think this is a nice number to work with. AHG uses the buddy system whenever the girls go to the bathroom or run an errand. We assign the buddies for the night and then ask the girls to pray for their buddy for the rest of the week. Then change buddies next week.

We have an awesome set of leaders. We work so well together. I am blessed to have them on my team.

Are You . . . Almost Saved?

For All Those Ketchup Lovers Out There . . .

How was school this week?

It was a very short week. Angel had her cast removed on Monday so we did not have school. Tuesday and Wednesday were pretty good.

I use Homeschool Skedtrack for my scheduling. I love it because if you miss a subject on one day, it just moved to the next scheduled time.

You can print out the weekly schedule for your child. I tried that this week and the only instruction was "All this has to be done by Friday." We will see if this works.

Went to our public library for a field trip. Each one went with a different group. Curly learned about how they did genealogy and the different databases that the library has and how to use a citing tool for research papers. Angel also learned about how to use the library computer and the different databases that they have and then a couple of the ladies in the group share a story with the kids. When then had lunch with the group and got to visit for awhile.

All in all, I think our school is going pretty good.

Fly, Fly Butterflies

Butterfly Metamorphosis

 The Children's Butterfly Site

What did we do at AHG tonight.

Tonight was our first full night of American Heritage Girls FL2345. We had extremely bad weather so I do not know if that kept some of the girls home.

In Tenderhearts, we had 6 girls.

We are working on our Joining Award--which is the first badge a girl earns. Out of the 6 girls, we have 2 that need to earn their Joining Award--the others are getting a refresher.

Tonight we learned the AHG Sign and AHG Oath: I promise to love God, Cherish my family, Honor my country and Serve in my community. We also learned about flag etiquette and how and when to use the AHG Salute. Next week, we are going to learn the AHG Creed and what it means and also learn how to fold an American flag.

I really love our leaders and look forward to working with them this year.

Why I didn't post this weekend.

Enjoyed a wonderful weekend in Orlando with 7 great ladies from my church.

Did we stay on schedule?

It was a little hard this week. We are getting all our work completed but we are starting later than I want to -- between 11am and 12noon. It takes us a little over four hours to complete our daily lessons so we still get done at a decent time--I just wish we could get started a little sooner in the day.

Angel is working on the Book of Virtues study. We are making a section for each virtue. 

After the page with the mini books, we will have the story questions and the copywork.

We have completed the first virtue. Here are the pictures:

We read the story, answer questions, and complete a mini book for each lesson. Each character trait has 10 lessons. Because Angel broke her arm, we have eliminated the copywork section for the time being.

Learn Greek and Latin

Learn Greek and Latin!

Textkit was created to help you learn Ancient Greek and Latin!
Textkit began in late 2001 as a project to develop free of charge downloads of Greek and Latin grammars, readers and answer keys. We offer a large library of over 180 of the very best Greek and Latin textkbooks on our Ancient Greek and Latin Learning pages. Since that time we have distributed millions of PDF textbook free of charge world-wide.
Our grammars, readers and keys are public domain textkbooks which Textkit has converted. Many of the very best public domain Greek and Latin grammars, such as D’Oogle’s Latin For Beginners, Smyth’s Greek Grammar and John Wiliams White’s First Greek Book were first posted to the Interent here at Textkit.

What Guys Think About Modesty

September 11, 2001 Lapbook

Curly and Angel's lapbook cover

We got these images off of the internet

The following lapbook is from Hands of a Child.

There are two flaps added inside the file folder. 
One is attached to the center bottom of the folder and the other is attached to the center top.

Carol's Flap 1 Outside:

Donna's Flap 1 Outside:

Flap 1 Inside:

Flap 2 Outside:

Flap 2 Inside:

I am not affiliated with HOAC nor do I get any compensation for promoting this product.

How did we do this week?

Can you guess where we went?

I have been very pleased with our homeschooling week. We worked a little ahead because we went on a little mini-vacation.

It was nice to come home and not feel like you are behind in everything (laundry, school, sleep, etc.)

It is still a trial to get back in the flow of things. Hopefully, we will be back at full swing tomorrow. Started school a little late in the day, so we focused on a special lapbook about September 11, 2001. Did not realize how many emotions this event would bring to the surface.

 

I pray that we as a country never forget what happened on that terrible day.

We need to remember those in the military who have paid the ultimate price in the service to our country and pray for those that are serving and for their families that support them.

Hopefully will be posting this lapbook within the next couple of days.

FYI:  Hands of a Child is offering a September 11, 2001 lapbook for $1 (offer good through 9/11/11).

I am not affiliated with HOAC nor do I get any compensation for promoting this offer.

Teaching Textbook Grading Logs

from Notebooking Nook

Teaching Textbook Grading Logs

One more week unitl . . .

Love vs. Lust

To Be Educated --by Carolyn Caines

I love this--I got this from a friend on Facebook (not sure where she got it):

If I learn my ABC's, can read 600 words per minute and can write with perfect penmanship but I have not been shown how to communicate with the designer of language . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can deliver an eloquent speech and can persuade you with my stunning logic and have not been instructed in God's wisdom . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I have read Shakespeare and John Locke and can discuss their rise with keen insight but have not read the greatest of all books; The Bible and have no knowledge of it's personal importance . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I have memorized addition facts, multiplication tables and chemical formulas but have never been disciplined to hide God's Word in my heart . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can explain the law of gravity and Einstein's theory of relativity but have never been instructed in the unchangeable laws of the One who orders the universe . . . 

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can classify animals by their families, genus and species and write a lengthy scientific paper that wins an award but have not been introduced to the Maker's purpose for all creation . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can recite the Gettysburg Address and the Preamble to the Constitution but have not been informed of the Hand of God in the history of our country . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can play the piano, the violin and six other instruments and can write music that moves men to tears but have not been taught to listen to the director of the universe and worship Him . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can run in cross country races, star in basketball and do 100 pushups without stopping but have never been shown how to bend my spirit to do God's will . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I can identify a Picasso, describe the style of a DaVinci or even paint a portrait that earns an A+ but have not learned that all harmony and beauty comes from a relationship with God . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I graduate with a perfect 4.0 and get accepted at the best university with a full scholarship but have not been guided into a career of God's choosing for me . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

If I become a good citizen, voting in each election and fighting for what is moral and right but have not been told of the sinfulness of man and his hopelessness without Christ . . .

. . . then I have not been educated.

However! If one day I see the world as God sees it and come to know Him- whom to know is life eternal and glorify God by fulfilling His purpose for me . . . 

. . . Then, I have been educated.

It Is Well With My Soul by Horatio Spafford

Daves Highway - It Is Well With My Soul - May 2011

You would think that the person who wrote this song, had a pretty great life. You would not be farther from the truth. Horatio G. Spafford and his wife Anna lived in Chicago with their five children. Horatio was a successful lawyer and friends with many influential people, including D. L Moody.He was also a Presbyterian church elder and a dedicated Christian.

In 1870, their four year old son, Horatio, Jr., died of scarlet fever. The Spaffords were devastated.
In October 1871 Spafford lost most of his wealth in the Great Chicago Fire.  250 people died in the Great Chicago Fire and 90,000 were left homeless but the Spafford's home and family were spared.

They used what resources they had left to help those who had been affected by the fire.

In 1873, the Spaffords planned a trip to Europe for a vacation but to assist Evangelist D. L. Moody in a revival they were conducting in England. The day they were to sail for Europe Spafford had a business emergency and could not leave. Not wanting to disappoint his wife Anna and their daughters he sent them on ahead and planned to follow on another ship in a few days.

On November 22, 1873 the steamer Ville du Havre was struck by a British iron sailing ship, the Lockhearn. Only 81 of the 307 passengers and crew members survived this tragic shipwreck, the four daughters were among the fatalities. Anna Spafford was picked up from floating debris by the crew of the Lockhearn. She was taken to Cardiff, Wales where she telegraphed her husband Horatio. Anna's cable was brief and heartbreaking, "Saved alone. What shall I do..."

As soon as he received Anna's telegram, Horatio left Chicago without delay to bring his wife home. Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean the captain of the ship called Horatio to the bridge. He informed Horatio that "A careful reckoning has been made and I believe we are now passing the place where the Ville du Havre was wrecked. The water is three miles deep." That night, alone in his cabin Horatio G. Spafford penned the words to his famous hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul." Horatio's faith in God never faltered. He later wrote Anna's half-sister, "On Thursday last we passed over the spot where she went down, in mid-ocean, the waters three miles deep. But I do not think of our dear ones there. They are safe, folded, the dear lambs."

After Anna was rescued, Pastor Nathaniel Weiss, one of the ministers traveling with Anna and Horatio's group remembered hearing Anna say, "God gave me four daughters. Now they have been taken from me. Someday I will understand why." Anna was utterly devastated. In her grief and despair, Anna heard a soft voice speaking to her, "You were saved for a purpose!" It was then Anna remembered something a friend had once said, "It's easy to be grateful and good when you have so much, but take care that you are not a fair-weather friend to God."

God blessed Anna and Horatio with three children. They had a son in 1876 and a daughter in 1878. Tragically, their son did at the age of 4 just as his brother before him, he died from scarlet fever. They had another daughter in 1880. After the loss of little Horatio, the Spaffords decided to leave their home in America and settle in Jerusalem. In September of 1881 the Spaffords and a few of their friends left America for Israel. 

The group settled in the old part of Jerusalem and started a work which later became known as the "American Colony." There they served the needy, helped the poor, cared for the sick and took in homeless children. Their only cause was to show those living about them the love of Jesus.

Bertha Spafford Vester, wrote the following in her book "Our Jerusalem."

"In Chicago, Father searched his life for explanation. Until now, it had flowed gently as a river. Spiritual peace and worldly security had sustained his early years, his family life and his home . . . All around him people were asking the unvoiced question; 'What guilt had brought this sweeping tragedy to Anna and Horatio Spafford?' . . . Father became convinced that God was kind and that he would see his children again in heaven. This thought calmed his heart, but it was to bring Father into open conflict with what was then the Christian world . . .  To Father, this was a passing through the "valley of the shadow of death," but his faith came through triumphant and strong. On the high seas, near the place where his children perished, he wrote the hymn that was to give comfort to so many:"

It Is Well With My Soul 

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
(refrain)
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
(refrain)

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(refrain)

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
(refrain)

In 1876, P.P. Bliss put Horatio Spafford's words to music.

It is believed that Horatio took the words "It is well" from the words of the Shunammite woman who lost her only son but was later raised from the dead by Elisha. (II Kings 4:26 )

Horatio G. Spafford Born October 20, 1828 in Lansingburgh, New York Died of Malaria on October 16, 1888 in Jerusalem Anna Spafford  Born in Stavanger, Norway, in 1842, continued to work in the surrounding areas of Jerusalem until her death in 1923.  The Spaffords were laid to eternal rest in Jerusalem. It can be said that "It Is Well With Their Souls."

Bible Reading and Prayer

I heard a statistic that the average Christian prays only 5 minutes a day and, if they read their Bible, it might be for 15 minutes a day. This Bible says that we are to pray without ceasing. Do I live my life in an attitude of prayer? Do I get into the Word so that the Word gets into me?

I believe both actions are related. I just completed an Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God  by Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King. (I would recommend this teaching for everyone.) It teaches that "God pursues a continual love relationship with you that is real and personal." How can I know God if I don't read His Word? I can't! How can I really talk to God if I don't know Him? How more intimate can my conversations be with God if I actually knew Him?

I will be honest, I have been struggling with reading my Bible. My prayer life has be superficial. Along with that, my relationship with God has suffered. How can I have a relationship with someone if I don't even communicate with? I am going to purposely read my Bible and let you know how it is going.

In our nightly devotions with the girls, we were challenged to read one chapter from Proverbs for each day in the month of September.

What verse in Proverbs 1 jumped off the page?

Verse 7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Boy, this verse could not be more of an affirmation that I am doing what I am supposed to do.

My daughter is using History Revealed--I am reading what she is reading in the Old Testament. Today it is Genesis 1-5.

I helped my other daughter with her Sunday School lessons. We read about Rehoboam and Jeroboam in 1 Kings 12:1-12 and 2 Chronicles 12:1-9. The lesson was about following God and being careful who you choose as friends.

I am reading from the New Testament everyday. I am going to read at least one chapter from the Gospel of Matthew.

I am hoping that I can type some insight into things that I read, but for right now I am going to be faithful to God and fellowship with Him through Bible reading and prayer.

Homeschool Week 2 and I have just one thing to say . . .

 

I LOVE MY KIDS!!

Does that mean my week was always a bed of roses? Nope! We had our thorns but it was so worth it to smell the roses.

What were the roses this past week?

1. Sitting with my oldest and talking about what the Bible says about being a woman. 
2. Giving her hugs . . .  just because.
3. Writing what my youngest dictated because she broke her arm. Every time she dictated to me, she was like the cat who swallowed a canary. 
4. Seeing her sweet smiles, especially after a difficult lesson (usually math). 
5. Making lunch for my girls and being told that this was the best family recipe I ever made. It was  basically cut up potatoes and onions, cooked in a skillet.
6. Actually finishing all the stuff I had scheduled without any major drama.

Remembering September 11, 2001

Can you remember what you were doing on September 11, 2001, when the twin towers were hit?


I was at home with my 1 1/2 year old, sitting in the living room watching the news. My husband was out of town on business. When I saw it on t.v., I did not believe what I was seeing. I am so worried that we will forget what happened that terrible day.

On Friday, September 9, the girls and I will have a day to reflect and remember what happened on September 11. 

We will be using the In the Hands of a Child September 11, 2001 Project Pack eBook (They will be offering it for just $1.00 between September 1 and September 11.) We will also be using some of these September 11 Notebooking Pages. 

Since, September 11 is on a Sunday, we will have a special day of remembrance with the entire family.

Who can be an American Heritge Girl?

Any girl, age 5-18 can be an American Heritage Girl.  Girls of all different backgrounds are welcome in AHG and are encouraged to join at any/every age!  You don't have to start as a Pathfinder (age 5) in order to gain the benefits from participating in the AHG Program.

AHG has a multi-level structure, which means that girls from all levels comprise ONE Troop and meet together as a single troop on the same night.  Badgework and certain activities are done within age appropriate groups (units). 

There are five level divisions in American Heritage Girls. Troops may offer all five levels, if there are girls and leaders available for each. However, it is common for new Troops to begin with only a few levels. Troops range in size from 12 – 100+ girls.

Pathfinder - Ages 5-6 and in Kindergarten
Girls earn necklace beads for attendance, participation and bible verse memorization while learning the four parts of the AHG Oath. They receive the Eliza Shirley Award for completion of this level.

Angel gets her Tenderheart badges (2010/2011 Year)

Tenderheart - Ages 6-9 and in grades 1-3
A Tenderheart earns Achievement Badges in any of the six Frontiers of Skill and receives activity patches for participating in Troop activities or special events. They earn the Sacagawea Award for achieving the highest level of skill and service at this level. Service Stars are awarded for every 5 hours of community service.

Curly with her Explorer Leader (2010/2011)

Explorer - Ages 9-12 and in grades 4-6
An Explorer earns Achievement Badges in any of the six Frontiers of Skill and receives activity patches for participating in Troop activities and/or special events. They receive Service Stars for every 10 hours of community service. The Lewis and Clark Award is earned by those girls who achieve the highest level of skill and service in this age group. Explorers are allowed to participate in overnight camping events as well.

Pioneer - Ages 12-14 and in grades 7-8
A Pioneer continues to earn Achievement Badges, Service Stars and activity patches. The highest award level for Pioneers is the Harriet Tubman Award. These girls may also become Camp and Event Aides.  The Pioneer level is where girls really begin to show leadership skills by assisting their leaders with planning, organizing and staffing special events for AHG in the community or within their Troop.

Patriot - Ages 14-18 and in grades 9-12
The Patriot is the highest program level in AHG. These girls plan and carry out activities with Unit Leaders who function as “facilitators”, allowing girls to make decisions on a regular basis.  As with lower levels, they too earn Achievement Badges, Service Stars and activity patches. Since the girls are older, they are required to demonstrate the highest level of skill in all areas. The level award for the Patriots is the Dolley Madison Award.

Patriot level girls may go above and beyond to earn the highest award of the American Heritage Girls, The Stars an Stripes Award.  This is the most prestigious of awards, and requires a great deal of time, sacrifice and devotion to achieve this award.

I'm Hungry! What Are We Eating? Week of 8/29

Monday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)
Lunch: Grilled Cheese with Watermelon
Dinner: Eat out

Tuesday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)
Lunch: PBJ
Dinner: Philly Cheesesteak with Green Beans
 

Wednesday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)
Lunch: Ravioli
 Dinner:

Thursday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)
Lunch: Spaghetti with Sauce/Green Beans
Dinner: Beanie Weenies with Rice and Mixed Veggies

Friday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)
Lunch: Flavored Thai Noodles
Dinner: Hamburgers, Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans

Saturday

Breakfast: The girls get their own breakfast (Cereal/Milk, PBJ, Fruit, their choice)

Lunch: Leftover Spaghetti with Green Beans

Dinner: Soup and Sandwiches

Sunday

Breakfast: Hardees
Lunch: Riches' Bar B Q
Dinner: Dinner with Friends

The Southern Ten Commandments

1. Just one God. 

2. Put nothin' before God. 

3. Watch yer mouth . . .  

4. Git yourself to Sunday meetin'. 

5. Honor yer Ma & Pa. 

6. No killin'. 

7. No foolin' around with another feller's gal (or 'nother gal's feller). 

8. Don't take what ain't yorn. 

9. No tellin' tales or gossipin'. 

10. Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff. 

Now that's plain an' simple. And bless your little cotton pickin heart.

Wreaths Across America

"To be killed in war is not the worst that can happen. To be lost is not the worst that can happen... to be forgotten is the worst." 

-Pierre Claeyssens (1909-2003).

 Wreaths laid at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. December 2010
(c) dorothy Hemmingway

I pray we never forget the sacrifice our service men and women made for our country. 
Let's not forget these great men and women.

Last year, American Heritage Girls FL2345 solicited sponsors for wreaths and participated in the wreath laying ceremony at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.

For the second year in a row, AHG FL2345 will participate with Wreaths Across America in this fundraiser/service project. 

 I personally feel very honored to be part of this very worthwhile endeavor. 


  Laying wreaths at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. December 2010
(c) dorothy Hemmingway

  

Not only do we get $5 for every wreath that is sponsored through us, 

we also volunteer to help lay the wreaths during the wreath laying ceremony 
on December 10, 12 noon, at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.
The ceremony is open to the public. 

Go to Wreaths Across America to see what they are all about. 

• Individual Wreath Sponsorship: 1 Wreath - $15.00
• Family Sponsorship: 4 Wreaths - $60.00
• Small Business Sponsorship: 10 Wreaths - $150.00
• Corporate Sponsorship: 100 Wreaths - $1500.00
• Patriot Pair (can only be ordered online): 2 Wreaths - $33.00

NOTE: Except for the Patriot Pair, you will not receive an actual wreath. You are sponsoring a wreath that will be placed on a gravemarker at the cemetery you have designated. We will be placing the wreaths at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.

When you order the Patriot Pair, one wreath will be sent to the home address of your choice and the other will be placed during the  annual wreath ceremonies. Shipping will not start until Nov. 17. 

To order online:

1. Go to Wreaths Across America and select sponsorship level.
2. Select a location to direct your sponsored wreath. We will be laying wreaths at the Jacksonville National Cemetery but you may choose any location on the list.
3. Select a specific group. This is Very Important: For us to get credit, you must select our group - State: FL Group: FLAHG2345  
4. Add to cart and pay. 

Audie Murphy: To Hell and Back

War at Home by Josh Groban

I will let this video stand on its own.

 

Pray for our military!

Our First Week of School . . .

Monday--We were supposed to go to a "Not Going to School" Celebration at Chuck E. Cheeses but my little one broke her arm and it was in a splint. Did not want her arm bumped so had to skip. Will be going having a makeup party later at Monkey Jungle Fun Time Pizza.

Tuesday--Delayed school until tomorrow. Going to Orthopedic Surgeon to get little one in a cast. She picked pink and red. She is with her two friends Hopper and D.B.J. (Donna Bear Jr.)

The cast tech asked her older sister if she would like to experience a little of what sister is experiencing with wearing a cast. Curly kept it on until supper time.

Wednesday--Started school yesterday. It went quite well. We actually finished all that was assigned without any drama which is saying something since I had the most horrific headache.

Thursday--Today we started kind of late (noon) but we still completed all our work by 4:30pm. Gotta love homeschooling. Love the fact that we can focus on learning and not all the filler stuff that so many kids/teachers have to endure in government school.

Angel has not been real thrilled with school. She is having a real hard time with her writing and I think I pushed her too much last year--too much writing in one sitting. So this year I broke (sorry, unintentional pun) up her writing into smaller chunks. Well that was the plan until she broke her arm.  Had to modify because she can not hold a pencil. Oh well, in four weeks maybe we will be able to start working on handwriting. Today, her favorite subjects are Math Detective and Balance Math.

Curly was able to do most of her work independently. Gotta love middle school. Word Roots and Life of Fred Math are her favorite subjects to day. She is very excited about school starting. Hope that enthusiasm continues.

See you next week.

Happy homeschooling.