'Cause I can't remember - it's been too long since I've seen it around here.  Seriously.  Tomorrow will be the first day in a very long time that we haven't had something out of the ordinary to do.  Well, unless you count going to the dentist, 'cause I think we'll have to do that tomorrow.  My youngest has some sort of something funky going on with one of his teeth, and I will probably end up in the dentist's office just to have it looked at and make sure it's nothing serious.  You really don't want to know more than that.  Trust me - it's gross. 

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Anyway... moving on.  "Normal" seems so abnormal to me that I'm not even sure where to start.  There's laundry to catch up on... mega cleaning to do... and let's not even talk about the schoolwork needing done.  Why?  Well, let's rewind a bit and I'll explain.  I've posted in the past about my family's interest in community theater.  A few months ago, we became aware of a local community production of The Miracle Worker.  Immediately, my daughter began plotting her audition.  She has been fascinated with the story of Helen Keller (as portrayed in The Miracle Worker) since we first studied about her almost 3 years ago.  My husband and I were hesitant to let her audition, partly because we didn't think that she would get the part, but also because we weren't sure we were up to the commitment of time it would take if she did get cast. 

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Well, the auditions were held, and my little girl got up there and gave it her best shot.  And we waited.  She told herself over and over again that she would not get the part, just so she didn't get her hopes up.  Monday rolled around and we went to our homeschool co-op classes, which is where we were when the cast list was put up.  My husband was keeping an eye on the website where the cast list was to be posted, and he let me know as soon as it was up.  Much to our surprise,

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SHE GOT THE PART! 

Our little girl was cast as Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker! 

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To say we were "proud" would be an understatement.  We were overwhelmingly proud and excited for her to have such an opportunity.  And, we were not quite ready for the whirlwind of activity that was about to take over our lives, either!  To make a long story short - many rehearsals, costume work, and lots of late nights later... and we had ourselves a wonderful production. 

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The last of 8 shows was last Monday night.  Then, Wednesday we took off for a quick vacation.  So now... it's all come to a sudden halt.  So what will we do with ourselves now?  Hmmmm....

I have been informed numerous times that I need to update my blog.  And, seeing as how I haven't written anything since CHRISTMAS... I suppose I probably should update before the people at HSB go in and delete it altogether. 

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So, what can I say, after 3 long months of silence?  I mean, I've been kinda busy, it's true... but still, that's no excuse for not saying a single word.  And I apologize for that.  So, let me just share what's been going on here lately.  And, if you see any typos, chalk them up to the fact that I have a very sore finger that is not wanting to cooperate with me.

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Let's see - Christmas was great...had family in from Ohio and the kids all had a ball with their cousins.  All of the children got money from their grandparents.  My kids chose to buy new pets with their money - specifically: hamsters.  That was a first for us, and it has been an adventure, let me tell ya!  Those little things might be small and have brains the size of a pea, but they are smart!  They have managed to escape so many times... it is unreal. 

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January was uneventful, for the most part, at least until the very last week when we were hit with a major ice storm.  It pretty much turned our town on its ear for a few weeks.  And, since my husband works for the city utility company, he was working about 100 hours a week during that time.  It was difficult having him gone.  A positive note, however, was that some friends of ours came to stay with us for a week because they had no power at their house.  I enjoyed spending time with my best friend and her sweet babies!  If you have to endure the aftermath of an ice storm, it's much more tolerable with good friends and cute kids.

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In February, we celebrated our daughter's 10th birthday.  Nothing major, since there was still so much going on with the ice storm aftermath.  We basically went to dinner at Chili's with some of our family.  Later in the month, she did have a friend over for a sleepover as sort of a late birthday party, which was a celebration enough for her.  We were supposed to start back up with our homeschool co-op in February, but again, the ice storm caused some delays.  The church that allows our group to use its facilities ended up being used as housing for out-of-state utility workers until nearly the end of the month.  So, co-op classes were postponed until March.

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March has brought some new endeavors my way.  For one, I am teaching a class at our co-op's "Monday School".  I have about 12 students that I teach for about an hour every Monday afternoon.  My class is based on the Konos "Attentiveness" unit, with a focus on the 5 senses.  It's not a difficult class, but for me to volunteer to teach is really a step out of my comfort zone!  And so far, I'm really enjoying it.  It's not as hard to get up and teach as I thought it would be! 

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Another thing I'm starting this month is writing for The Homeschool Post, which I think is pretty cool.  (Pop over and check it out!)   I've also got a few other writing projects in the works.  I've always wanted to actually write for a reason, and I'm excited to be getting a chance to do just that.  I'll share more information on that when the time comes. 

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So... there's a little recap of the last few months.  I'm sure I've forgotten a few things (at least!), but that's okay.  This isn't supposed to be heavy reading, right?  Right.  Okay then, until next time (and I promise not to take 3 months to get back), ta-ta! 

School has officially started at our house, as of today.  It's a little later than I would have liked, but at least  we've got the ball rolling.  We are taking a little bit of a different approach to schooling this year.  I'm not sure what you would call it... "cheap", "frugal", "cost-efficient".... whatever you wanna call it, we're just trying to do as much as we can while spending as little as we can.  With $20 comprehensive curriculum workbooks from Barnes and Noble for each child, we've managed to get a pretty good start on the basics with a very small investment.  (Plus, educators get a nice discount at B&N.)  We'll be adding more as we go along, but for now, the workbooks are a good way to ease back into schooling. 

I've tried to make "Back-To-School Day"  fun for my kids these past few years by making it somewhat of a holiday.  It's kind've like Christmas, only instead of toys, they get to open school supplies!  And would you believe that they LOVE it?  This year I bought them each a big binder with folders for each subject.  I gave the older two kids their own mini-dry erase boards to keep in their binders and use as "scratch paper".  My youngest started Kindergarten this year, so he got his own binder, too!  Instead of a mini-dry erase  board, though, he got a notebook sized dry erase board with lines for writing.  They all got some fun dry erase markers, too. 

I did NOT buy new markers and glue and rulers and scissors, etc., etc., etc....  We still have a bajillion crayons left from when the older two were in traditional school for a few years, along with a dozen or so rulers and pairs of scissors!  Glue sticks and craft paper are something we keep in stock all the time, too... but this is a great time of year to stock up on those things, while they are marked down! 

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One downside to the day has been this crazy headache that I've been fighting.  I don't know what has triggered it, but I've had it since Saturday.  It's driving me crazy!  So, I'm sorry... my creativity level goes waaaay down when my head is hurting like this.  Hopefully it will subside before I blog again!  :)

It's the very last day of July, and I'm finally getting some planning done for our school year that will start very, very soon.  Ironically, I have a houseful of kids today.  I'm "hiding" in my bedroom with the laptop while the natives are running wild through the rest of the house.  I'd put them all outside, but it's raining.  Then again, a little rain never hurt anyone...

While I'm doing my planning, I thought I'd share a neat little tool with you all that has been really helpful to me.  It's called the Homeschoolbar.  The Homeschoolbar is a toolbar that you can download and install on your computer.  When you open a browser window, your homeschoolbar will appear at the top of your window.  In it, you will have access to all kinds of homeschool goodies, such as a homeschool specific search bar, links to homeschool websites and blogs, news feeds about homeschooling, links to sites for homeschooled kids, and tons more.  I have been able to find a lot of what I need for my homeschool planning through this cool tool. 

To learn more and to download your own homeschoolbar, go to www.homeschoolbar.com. 

It's strange to see that we are now halfway through the month of July.  I guess I've been too busy to notice the days slipping by in front of me.  And though it is not without reason, it still makes me feel frustrated at the lack of accomplishments this summer.  I had every intention of getting the kids started back on some schoolwork after the 4th of July weekend.  But that did not happen, and it still has not happened.  Maybe this coming Monday we can get something going.  I am also hoping to set aside time for planning and getting things in order for the coming school year.  I know of a few things I'd like to focus on, but I need to gather resources and set some tentative schedules. 

One thing that I know we are going to do this coming school year is learn Spanish.  We made a wonderful acquaintance recently when our family was involved with the local community theater's summer production of Fiddler on the Roof.  This young man played the role of "Perchick" in the play, a student who agreed to be a teacher for the daughters of the main character, "Tevye".  Ironically, as we got to know "Perchick", we found out that he is going to major in Spanish this coming year, and is already quite knowledgeable with the Spanish language, so we asked him to consider tutoring our children.  And he agreed.  :) 

One really cool twist in the whole thing was when we discovered that he only lives up the street from our house.  So "Perchick" has become a regular guest in our home, and has pretty much been adopted by our family.  Sis has already learned the Spanish alphabet and numbers.  Her brothers are going to have to play catch-up! 

Meanwhile, our new Spanish teacher has started a blog here on HomeschoolBlogger.  Go by and pay him a visit at -  www.homeschoolblogger.com/spanishteach/. 

We are almost done with school for the year.  Whew!  The kids are down to the last few lessons in their Switched-on-Schoolhouse stuff.  And as for our unit studies, I've pretty much given up on keeping their attention any further this semester.  Their brains are tired.  Their bodies are restless.  And they are overcome with the desire to be free, to let loose and run and play, to dig in the dirt and splash in the wading pool, and follow the many rabbit trails that have come alive with the blossoming season.  So who am I to hold them back? 

Have you discovered the Learning A-Z website, yet?  If not, this week would be an excellent time to check them out.  Each day this week, May 5th-9th, and Monday, May 12th, Learning A-Z is offering an Open House in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.  Learning A-Z has six different websites, and each day this week (and next Monday) you can visit these sites and get a sneak peek at the materials for FREE.  Here is a schedule of the events:

• Monday, May 5th- Reading A-Z.com - (Thousands of printable books, lessons, worksheets, and activities.)
• Tuesday, May 6th-raz-kids.com - (Hundreds of online leveled readers and quizzes.)
• Wednesday, May 7th-Writing A-Z.com-(Complete downloadable, leveled writing program.)
• Thursday, May 8th - Vocabulary A-Z.com-(Customized vocabulary lessons.)
• Friday, May 9th-Reading-Tutors.com-(Tutor resources for specific reading skills.)
• Monday, May 12th-Science A-Z.com-(Downloadable elementary science curriculum.)

Sorry for the late notice today, but you have until midnight tonight to check out Reading A-Z.com!  I've been there today and boy, oh boy, am I impressed.  They have a LOT of GREAT stuff!!! 

So go on... go see for yourself! 

Dana (@ Principled Discovery) said,

"We have likely all felt the fool in one way or another. Share your greatest challenge. Or one of those terrible, horrible no good, very bad days where the only thing there is to do seems to involve moving to Australia."

It's not unusual for me to feel foolish.  I make mistakes, frequently.  Some are worse than others, of course.  However, there is one mistake that continues to sneak up and smack me in the face all too often.  It's a little something called "lack of preparation", if you wanna be fancy.  Or, you might just call it, "Mama ain't ready yet!" 

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It's my greatest challenge: pulling everything together and making it happen!  I have great ideas and lofty goals.  I have great ambitions and wonderful intentions.  What I lack is the get-up-and-go to put it in gear.  I don't think it is that I'm lazy.  (At least I hope not!)  I really think that I get distracted and busy doing other things, and I just forget, or I don't "get around" to doing what I need to do.

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The result?  Monday morning rolls around, and I'm still scrambling to pull things together for school.  Which means, the kids are running around like chickens with their heads cut off, which makes it even harder for me to get things pulled together...  And so I usually end up getting frustrated.  And crabby.  And I raise my voice.  And before long we are all irritable and snapping at each other.  And nothing worth doing gets done.

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So why haven't I learned? 

It's the beginning of a very special week here in the blog-world!  Dana at Principled Discovery is hosting a special weeklong event to commemorate the first annual Home Education Week in her home state of Nebraska (<-Click to read the official proclamation from the Governor.)  The state of Florida is celebrating homeschooling this week, too.  I wonder how long it will be before the other 48 will follow suit? 

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This is going to be a fun week!  I'm looking forward to reading lots of ideas and thoughts and stories of other families' homeschooling adventures.  And, I'm excited to get to share some things from my family's experiences.  I hope you'll join in the fun!  For more information, go visit Principled Discovery. 

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Today's theme is "Looking Back". 

"Share your personal history…before you were a home educator.

What was life like? Think about things you miss

and things you and your family have gained."

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Before homeschooling my kids, they attended a small, Christian school; the same one in which I had spent my K-12 years.  My firstborn had trouble from day one in Kindergarten.  He has never been "slow" when it comes to learning.  On the contrary, he has always been extremely bright and a fast learner.  But, at that point, he had a lot of energy.  That, combined with him being a "hands-on" learner, made things difficult for him in a traditional classroom setting.  It made it hard for his teacher, too! 

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Every day I would go in to pick him up at the door of the classroom, and his teacher would meet me there to tell me all the things that he had done wrong that day.  It usually involved things like fidgeting too much, not keeping his hands to himself, not staying in line on the way to and from the cafeteria or the bathroom, etc.  Maybe it was pregnancy hormones, because at the time I was expecting #3, but I had a hard time listening to that day after day! 

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Every Monday was folder day.  My son would be given his folder to take home, full of the previous week's papers, plus any notes or announcements that parents needed to know about.  I always found it humorous that on my son's papers would usually be written some comment about needing to be neater, especially the ones that involved coloring.  My son was not a colorer.  He had no interest in taking crayons and filling in a picture that someone else had drawn.  He could take a blank piece of paper and draw something magnificent.  But coloring a picture?  He hated it.  So his coloring pages always came back saying, "Needs to work on coloring!"  LOL. 

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And then there were the field trips and all the various class activities.  Parents were encouraged and even somewhat expected to take a very active role in these things.  But with a preschooler and an infant in tow, I couldn't always make it to everything.  This gave me a huge guilt complex as a mom.  Especially when my child would tell me later, "...but all the other moms were there."  *sigh*  I hated missing out on those things!  It broke my heart, knowing that my child was going on a field trip and he would be one of the few who didn't have a parent there to accompany him.  And I worried, too, that he would be left out or overlooked.  He wasn't... but I still worried!

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I could continue with tales about each year until we finally made the decision to homeschool, but they are all about the same.  My son was in 3rd grade, my daughter in 1st, when we decided that we had all enough.  At the end of that school year, we made it known that we would be homeschooling after that.  My children were elated.  I was scared, relieved, and excited all in one!  My dh, well, he was just glad to be free from the tuition costs! 

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So let's see, is there anything that I miss about my pre-homeschooling life?  Hmmm.... getting up early every day?  Dragging the baby out of bed before he was ready so we could get the older kids to school?  Waking the baby from his afternoon nap to go pick up the older kids from school?  Spending a fortune on new school supplies and a million odds and ends throughout the year whether they need them or not?  Purchasing a new "back-to-school" wardrobe in the fall just because?  Forcing my children to read books that they weren't the least bit interested in within a ridiculous time frame so they could do well on the "AR" tests?  Dealing with the parenting-politics that are ever present, especially in a private school?  Etc., etc., etc....  Need I go on?  Do I miss that stuff?  NO!

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What have we gained?  Well, we have gained a closeness within our family that wasn't there before.  We have time now, to just relax and be a family and not let the rest of the world determine when and for how long we can see each other.  My children may fight like cats and dogs sometimes, but they are also each other's best friends. (BTW, they tried to play with each other on the playground when they were in school.  They got in trouble, because 1st graders and 3rd graders weren't allowed to play together.  They could only play with kids from their class.)  And, they have been free to spend time with their cousins (who are also homeschooled) and their grandparents, which is absolutely priceless.  They have also made friends within our co-op who have been such a blessing. 

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As a mom, I have gained so much confidence!  I love homeschooling my children and I'm proud to be a homeschooling mom.  I feel that I'm truly doing what God has called me to do now.  And really, that is all that I need to know.  Just like the name of this blog says, I am homeschooling my children -

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for heaven's sake. 

We are desperately trying to get back in the saddle with our school work.  I have to say, it has been a bit of a struggle.  For starters, we had an exceptionally busy holiday break.  During the month of December we pretty much laid off most of the real "official" school stuff.  The kids did some S.O.S., but mostly what we did for "school" was making gifts and cards.  (Shhhh!  Don't tell the kids that we were doing school while they were having all that fun!)

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Then, my beautiful baby sister got married on New Year's Eve.  It was a very touching ceremony... but what made it even more exciting was that we "threw" it all together in only 2 weeks.  Sis and her fiance' had planned to get married in March, but with them living in two states, hundreds of miles apart, planning a wedding was proving quite difficult.  So they both came "home" for Christmas and all the little elves in the family helped put together their New Year's Eve wedding.  It was a lot of work, but it was one of those experiences that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world.  After all, those kinds of things are just what sisters are for!  :) 

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Since then we've had a few illnesses in the family, and it's hard to do school when half of the students are out sick.  ("half", in our case, equals "one".  ha.)  Today I spent the better part of the afternoon in the doctor's office with my 11 year old who has a tummy bug. 

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So tomorrow, we will try again.  Soon, I will have something more interesting to post, I promise!  (I promise, DDT!  You know who you are!) 

I've come to the realization this week that my kids aren't as proficient in their math skills as they should be.  So, I've put a temporary hold on all other subjects besides math and language arts.  This week we've basically done math, math, and more math.... and when they're so sick of it that they can't stand it anymore, we switch to something language related. 

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We've had to do this before, but only when I didn't have the time or sanity to plan anything else.  This time, though, it's really for their own good.  I know that there are more important things in life than math, believe me.  I always stank (is that a word?) at math when I was in school.  But, I believe that having a good foundation in math is important.  Especially since my 5th grader has reached a point with his Switched on Schoolhouse math program where it's either back up and learn it, or quit the program, because he can't keep going until he GETS IT. 

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I have to admit that it's kind've a nice break for me, too.  I'm sure we'll get back to regular school next week, though.  But it is nice to be able to recognize the need for slowing down and reviewing, instead of constantly plowing ahead.  Another bonus for homeschooling, huh? 

I have had such a HEADACHE the past several days, which has made blogging pretty much impossible.  I'm feeling better today, so I thought I'd pop in for a few minutes while our lunch is in the oven and the kids are outside enjoying some cooler weather.  Don't get me wrong - it is by no means COOL outside.  But, it's only 89*, as opposed to the standard 100*plus we've had for the past few weeks.  So yes, I sent them outside to run off some energy and give me a few moments of quiet to play on the computer make lunch. 

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Ironically, things are much quieter than usual today because my left ear is completely plugged.  Can't hear a thing out of it for some reason.  I know it's not infected, just some wax buildup or something.  Doesn't that sound lovely?  If I can't get it to clear up I may have to go to the doctor.  I don't want to.  Something just doesn't sit right with me about paying an MD the big bucks just to clean out my ear canal.  LOL.  So for now, I'm just saying, "Huh?" a lot.  The kids think it's hilarious. 

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Hey, by the way - what do you think of my new MEEZ over there on the right side, at the top of the page?  Cute, huh?  It's supposedly "me", but the MEEZ site doesn't have any options for adding poundage to their skinny little template people.  So, imagine that gal up there with just a little more fluff, and there ya have it!  Go make your own MEEZ.  It's pretty fun!  My older two kids have one each, and it's pretty funny considering that the MEEZ people are grown-ups.  Seriously - go make yourself a little MEEZ: www.Meez.com.  Let me see it when you're through! 

My very sweet friend, Kym, has given me the honor of nominating me for the The Blogger Reflection Award.  Wow.  I still feel like such a novice in the blogosphere, and this such a cool thing for me to be thought of in this way.  So, THANK YOU, Kym.  You have been a great influence on me for the past 8 years or so that I've "known" you, and you are a blessing to me! 

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The reason for The Blogger Reflection Award is to reflect on five bloggers who have been an encouragement, a source of love, impacted you in some way, and have been a Godly example to you. Five Bloggers who when you reflect on them you get a sense of pride and joy... of knowing them and being blessed by them.  (Visit Reflection Blogger Award to find out more about the award - who started it and why.)

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So, I've been trying to decide who I would nominate for this award.  I am not a great blogger, nor a great commentor, but I do like to read blogs, and there are several that I have bookmarked to read regularly. 

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My most favorite blogger in the whole world is also someone whom I consider a dear friend.  I met Heather online about 8 years ago.  Then I got to meet her in person just a matter of weeks ago.  She is even more lovely and sweet in person than she is online.  Heather, who goes by "Sprittibee" online, has a beautiful family, and even a new little bee soon to be joining their hive.  She is a phenomenal homeschool mom with a passion for raising her kids to love the Lord, and I just think the world of her.

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Another long-time friend of mine is the very one who nominated me for this award, so I nominate her right back!  I "met" Kym probably around the same time that I met Heather.  We were all in a lot of the same circles online, and as often happens with any circle of friends, people come and people go.  Kym is someone I've always managed to keep in touch with in one way or another, and now here we are on HomeschoolBlogger together!  Kym is just a really neat person, and it has been a blessing to know her. 

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I've brushed shoulders with several other homeschool moms here on HomeschoolBlogger, as well as around the blogosphere.  Lori is one that I seem to run into a lot here, and I really enjoy having her stop by my blog.  She leaves little notes frequently, and that really encourages me.  I am also encouraged every time I visit her blog.  She's one of those people that I think would be really cool to have as a neighbor, so I could drop by for a cup of tea, and have her do the same at my house! 

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Every day or so, I like to stop by and visit Chickadee on A Familiar Path.  She's a former HomeschoolBlogger blogger, which is where I "met" her.  She probably doesn't even realize that I have stopped by most days, because as I said, I'm not so great at leaving comments.  However, I do enjoy her blog and I am always encouraged when I visit.  And besides, she's a fellow Arkansan, so she's got to be pretty cool!

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And last but certainly NOT the least, my sweet friend Karen.  Karen is another one of those friends that absolutely amazes me with what she able to accomplish.  A busy mom of four with another one on the way, Karen keeps up with schooling AND keeps the home fires burning during her dh's frequent business trips.  As I said, she amazes me.  What I love about her blog is the thoughts that she shares about so many things.  Karen has a different way of seeing things and it is so refreshing to me.  I became acquainted with Karen through the Konos Online Co-op, but even besides all that, I still visit her blog nearly every day, just to see what she has to say about life.

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As we are getting ready to start back-to-school, and this is our 2nd year of homeschooling, I am feeling so much more confident this year than I did last.  I feel like I have somewhat of a clue as to what I'm doing this time around.  Part of that is due to so many helpful people I have met online and what I have learned from them by the things they've shared on their blogs.  What a blessing!  And if I have shared anything that has blessed your life, I am just thankful to have had the opportunity to do so.  It's nothing short of a God thing.

Yes, I did.  I fell off the face of the Earth.  Or at least out of the blogosphere!  I know I left ya hanging on that last entry that was supposed to be "Part 1" of at least two entries.  I'm sorry!  But, I've been having medicial problems that have intervened with pretty much every aspect of my life, and blogging just has not been a priority for me.  For the past almost 4 years I've been having pain in my abdomen, off and on.  Finally, about a month ago, it got bad enough that I was seriously concerned about my health.  I went to the doctor and found out that I had gallstones.  I was familiar with that diagnosis because my sister had similar problems a few years back, and I remember the trials that she went through with hers.  Not wanting to have surgery, which is the only real medical solution for gall stones, I decided to try a more natural route.  After seeking advice from different ones who had done this before, I tried a concoction of grapefruit juice, epsom salts, and olive oil.  Yes, I drank it.  At least I tried.  It was sooooo nasty!  I got down as much of it as I could, and then spent the next two days in the bathroom.  It was supposed to cleanse my liver and gall bladder and get rid of any stones lurking around in there.  But, it didn't.  It works for lots of people... but it just didn't for me.  And, after all that and then spending the next night lying in a fetal position in the living room floor because of the pain, I decided to go ahead with the surgery. 

During all this, my daughter was part of the cast of "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe".  They were practicing nearly every night and then had 8 performances in a row during the last week of April.  I couldn't miss out on that!  So I scheduled my surgery for May 4th.  I went in at 7:30 Friday morning.  The surgery began around 9:30 or so.  The doctor was able to perform the surgery laproscopically, but he ended up having to widen the incision a bit to get the actual gall bladder out because it was chock full of stones.  No wonder I'd been hurting so badly! 

So, I got to come home around 2PM that same day.  I've been recovering quite well.  I've had some unbelievable help from my sisters, my mom, my mother and father-in-law, and most of all, my dear, sweet husband.  He has hardly left my side through this whole thing.  I keep telling him that I don't know what I'd do without him.  He is just too good to me!!!  I'm hoping to be fully recovered ASAP so I can resume our normal schedule, which we haven't had since I've been feeling so badly.  We will probably have to continue schooling into the summer, but I don't think the kids will mind too terribly. 

Anyways, I wanted to give an update so that anyone who stops by will know that I'm still alive.  :)  Sorry for any typos... I'm still on pain meds!! 

Wow, where do I start?  It’s been so long since my last entry that I feel overwhelmed just thinking about all the things I need to catch up on!  I actually did try to post something a week or two ago, and somehow it got blasted into cyberspace and never made it to my blog.  I really hate when that happens.   

So, I’ve been having a lot of things going on inside my head these past weeks.  Some good, some bad, but hopefully all of them will spur on something productive!  After weeks of nonstop action at our house and feeling exhausted and completely overwhelmed, I was beginning to really, really drag.  If it weren’t for the online co-op I am a part of, our schooling would be a total bust for the month of January and February so far.  The co-op is the only thing that has kept me on my toes and somewhat caught up, since I am held accountable to them.

But, even though I’ve been going through the motions with school, I haven’t quite been hitting on all 8 cylinders, as they say.  I know my children are learning, but I’m not sure that they are getting as much out of the units as they should be.  I’m talking about the character traits part of things – the really important stuff.  The unit we’re working on right now is Honor, and part of this unit involves building a small model of the tabernacle that the Israelites used.  It is a very important unit because it’s about learning to honor God and his holiness, while at the same time realizing that as insignificant as we are compared to Him, we can approach him any time we want.  It is about taking down the barriers between God and us.  How much more important can you get than that?   

I want so much to make this a big “aha!” lesson for my children!  But, I have had so much trouble getting past my own shortcomings in order to get them to that point.  The only point I’ve managed to make very well is that building a tabernacle is a big job and it takes a lot of work, which tends to make mommy very grumpy.  What I am realizing is that I have a major roadblock that must be moved in my own life, just like the curtain of the temple had to be torn in two.  I’m not sure yet what it is, but I know for a fact that something has got to give.  Whatever it is, I’m working on it and praying about it.  I’ve decided that I need a “Total Mommy Makeover” – and I’m not talking about new clothes, makeup, and a hairdo. I mean a makeover, from the inside out.   

This is what’s going on in my head…. I’m still trying to sort it all out.  I’ve got an actual notebook and pen that I’ve been brainstorming into the past few days, and have written so much that my hand is sore.  I just feel the need for change.  Maybe it’s spring fever?  Or maybe it’s a nudge from God because He senses the need for a change in my life, too.  I’m listening.

It's not quite 7AM, still dark, and all three kids are still asleep.  I rarely find myself out of bed and around this early, but when I do, I enjoy the quiet time.  I don't know why I have such a hard time making myself get out of bed in the mornings.  Actually, I do know why - I'm spoiled.  I enjoy my sleep all too much!  That's something I plan to work on after Christmas break. 

Sometimes I feel guilty that my kids don't have a mom who is up early and has a big breakfast waiting for them at the same time every morning.  That's the kind of mom I had.  She was always up long before anyone else, and had the most delicious breakfast cooked and on the table waiting for us every morning.  Now that is discipline.  Why can't I be like that? 

When my kids were in a traditional school, I wasn't any better.  It wasn't uncommon for me to still be in my jammies when I dropped them off in the drive through of the school.  And a lot of times their breakfast consisted of a quick Pop-Tart or a peanut butter toast sandwich that they could take with them on the ride to school.  I'm proud to say that since we've been homeschooling, Pop-Tarts have been reserved for "emergency food" instead of a daily staple.  LOL.  But I'm still not proficient at having a full sit-down breakfast prepared every morning.   Ah, the standards we impose upon ourselves!

I guess I'm feeling a little critical of myself this morning, since my poor, sweet husband had to search through piles of clean laundry trying to find a clean pair of socks to wear to work.  He didn't complain, but boy did I feel horrible!  And, he had to wear his "good jeans" to work because all his work jeans were still in the washer.  SOMEONE forgot to put them in the dryer before she went to bed last night.......  (My mother would have never let that happen!)  I keep thinking that after 12 years of marriage and 3 kids that maybe I'd be getting the hang of some of this stuff by now. 

Okay, I'm done.  *wink*  I really didn't come on here to whine this morning... or to say "poor Bev"....  Just sharing the thoughts that are on my brain this morning.  Sometimes that helps to start to make things better, right? 

I'm off now to get some laundry done before my munchkins wake up.  Have a blessed day!

I'm finding myself turning into a real scrooge.  Not in the way you might think, though.  I feel the same way about some aspects of the holiday season as I do about election time.  I get so sick of all the political ads and constant talk about all things political.  And this time of year, I get even more sick of all the Christmas ads and phony Christmas cheer everywhere you turn.   It seems that the whole country is just out to make a buck by convincing you that their product is the one that you (or more likely YOUR CHILD) cannot live without.  And, every store is having their "Biggest Sale of the YEAR!" that you supposedly just can't miss.  Add to that the phony Santas, the blaring holiday music, and the overly intentional use of the word "Christmas" (as if to say, "We're sooo much better than those other stores who don't say 'Merry Christmas'!")... I just can't help but feel a little scroogish. 

And then there are all the holiday parties that require a $5 gift here or a $10 gift there.  I'm wondering where other people are finding the money to fund this generosity.  Maybe they have money trees in their backyards?  I've made the mistake in the past of charging up my credit card to pay for Christmas gifts - not gonna let that happen again!  We decided earlier this year to wipe that card clean by paying it off completely.  It took our entire nest egg to do it, too.  But, with 25.9% interest - it was killing us.  We had to get rid of it.  It's been a hard year for us financially without that nest egg to fall back on, but I think it has been worth it.  And we certainly have not missed any meals. 

When it comes to gift giving, I'm a little picky.  If it doesn't come from the heart then to me, it's not worth giving.  I like to be original and most of all, sincere, with the gifts that I give.  I love to make gifts, though finding the time for this is difficult.  I spend a great deal of time thinking about my relationship with the person for whom I am shopping before I purchase or make a gift.  I rarely buy greeting cards, either, for the same reason - the expression is not as genuine as one that is handmade.  Maybe this is another reason why the Christmas commercialism grates on my nerves.  Everyone wants to sell us "the perfect gift".  Even the advertisements are so bold as to say things like, "This season's MUST HAVE toys", as if the children will all pass out from boredom if they do not get them.  Does this bother anyone else?  I'm thinking, "Quit shoving it in my face, telling me what I MUST HAVE, and let me think for myself!"  It doesn't always have to be bigger and better.  And I know that this is a big time for businesses, so no, I don't fault them for their efforts.  I just get a little tired of it... okay, REALLY tired of it.  Sometimes I wish I could hibernate through it all. 

What I'm dreaming of, is not a "White Christmas" - although I wouldn't argue with having one, that would be kind've nice.  (Especially here in Arkansas, since even the hint of snow tends to shut the whole city down.)  I'm dreaming of a quiet, calm, peaceful Christmas.  A homemade, homespun, cozy family Christmas.  Paper chains around the Christmas tree, homemade cookies decorated by chubby little fingers, and noseprints on the windows made by children watching for Santa  - kind of Christmas.  Singing songs by the light of the Christmas tree, taping and re-taping the wrapping paper on the gifts beneath it.... picking out the half-eaten candy canes that were supposed to be decorations - kind of Christmas.  Driving around town looking at all the beautiful light displays that different ones have offered to share with the world - kind of Christmas.  The comfort of family and friends drawing near, especially when they bring along some good food to add to the good company - kind of Christmas.  Most of all, the children's giddy laughter when they discover what Santa has left for them.  Yes, that kind of Christmas.

It's not about presents.  It's not about spending money and more money and more money to get the "perfect gift".  No, not at all.  It's about the simple things.  And we all know that the simple things are free. 

I hope I haven't depressed anyone with my humbug ramblings.  I honestly felt that by getting these thoughts out on "paper" that I would feel better about it all and be ready to face the season with a more enthusiastic spirit.  And, I think that I do feel better! 

1.My Heavenly Father, Creator of the Universe.

2.Jesus Christ, my Savior. 

3.The Holy Spirit who intercedes for me.

4.My loving husband, faithful and true for 12 years and counting.

5.My 9 year old son who is my best kitchen sidekick.

6.My 7 year old daughter who makes me smile with her beautiful artwork.

7.My 3 year old son who keeps me laughing with his crazy antics.

8.My mother and father, for bringing me up in a Christian home.

9.My siblings for being my childhood companions, and my grown-up confidants.

10.My mother-in-law and father-in-law for raising a Godly son.

11.My Christian family, because I know that I'm never alone.

12.My small town.  I've traveled all over the world, but there's no place like home.

13.My humble home, built with love.

14.My computer.... and my high speed cable modem.

15.Knowledge, learning, and the neverending quest for wisdom.

16.Cell phones.  Reach out and touch someone - wherever you happen to be!

17.DrPepper, even though I'm trying to cut back.

18.The World-Wide-Web.  Massive amounts of  information right at my fingertips!

19.Instant Hand Sanitizer.  Never leave home without it.

20.Babies.  There is nothing more precious! (especially when they're sleeping...)

21.Daylight Savings Time.  Short winter days really bum me out.

22.The beach.  My next favorite place besides home.  :)

23.Fluffy, furry, cuddly kittens.  (Although there will be no more at my house!)

24.Good music. (I love iTunes.)

25.The sound of my children's laughter.

26.Comfortable shoes.

27.Chocolate.

28.Swimming pools during the hot Arkansas summertime.

29.Christmas trees - the real, live ones.  They smell so wonderful!

30.A comfy bed with super-soft sheets and a thick, fluffy comforter.

31.My husband's job. 

32.Health insurance.

33.A baby's toothless grin.

34.The sound of rain on the roof.

35.The beauty of a winter's snow.

36.The U.S. military, and everyone who serves this great nation.

37.Soft soil to sink my hands into each Spring.

38.Snuggles, hugs, and kisses from my three snuggle buddies.

39.Keyless entry in my Mazda MPV - I had no idea what I was missing!

40.TiVo.  Wow - that rocks.

41.Buttered Popcorn Jelly Belly's. 

42.Being able to stay at home with my children.

43.Being able to homeschool and have a lifestyle of learning.

44.FREEDOM.

Do you have 44 Things you are Thankful For?  Let me know.  I'd love to read your list!  :)

I love homeschooling.  I love having my babies at home with me where I know what is going into their little heads (and also what is NOT!).  I have discovered that I absolutely LOVE seeing the gleam in their eyes when they really "get it" for the first time.  I love having a relaxed atmosphere in our home and not being confined to the schedule of traditional school and all the things that go along with it.  I love being able to have class outdoors in the grass, at the park, in the van, at the store, at relatives' homes, at the library, at McDonald's.....WHEREVER!  (By the way, my title is actually playing off the  McDonald's ad... because we ate breakfast at McD's this morning and had class while little brother played in the play area.  Fun!  We do that every once in awhile.)   And we even have class snuggled up on the couch or in mommy's bed sometimes.  I love being able to slow down if the kids need extra time to fully grasp something, or speed up if they've totally got it and are bored and ready to move on.  I love being able to "chase rabbits" when we get an opportunity to explore something we find interesting, even if it has absolutely nothing to do with our current unit. 

I love homeschooling.

The only downside for me is the "not knowing" part.  Like, not knowing that my kids are learning everything they need to be learning.  And, I've read countless articles about this very thing, which is why I am choosing to have faith and keep plugging away at it!  Seeing that others have done it and raised intelligent children and not a bunch of dum-dums gives me hope that I can really do it, too.  I think I'm still in the de-schooling period, trying to get out of the pattern of traditional school with weekly grade reports and having someone else keep up with what my kids are learning.  It's a lot of responsibility, and that scares me a little bit!  But, with God's help and guidance I know I can do and do it well.  "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.