Big Lake, AK
Plainview, IL
Seattle, WA
Middleburg, FL
Terrell, TX
Jacksonville, FL
Grant County, WA
Leesburg, FL
Does your church have a ministry for homeschoolers?
New and Existing Co-ops are Welcome at FCHM!
Whether you need to start, grow, or revitalize your homeschool ministry, FCHM is here for you.
Our mission is to help homeschooling families through building a network of homeschool cooperatives in partnership with local churches.
Would you like more information on how you can start an FCHM chapter in your church? CLICK HERE
FCHM highly recommends The Old Schoolhouse™ Magazine!
2009 FCHM Leader's Summit - Saturday November 14th - All Day -
Parental Rights Amendment Meeting: To be announced
Discipling the Next Generation
by Jay and Heidi St. John
"A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher." Luke 6:10
People often ask us why we are so passionate about supporting homeschoolers. Our answer is simple: because today's parents are discipling the next generation. As we said last week, education is discipleship. It matters. God's word says that when students are through with their education, they will be like their teachers.
In a culture of moral relativism, homeschooling parents are making a difference. They are having an impact on the social and spiritual landscape of the next generation. It is our desire that pastors would seize this opportunity and support homeschooling parents. That's the heart behind the work we do at First Class Homeschool Ministries.
First Class is more than a wonderful, well-organized homeschool co-op program. It's not simply a "how-to" book on running a co-op or an amazing online database. It is a life-changing ministry that is helping churches offer real, tangible suppot tomhomeschooling parents as they train and nurture the next generation in the ways of the Lord.
These families are doing an amazing work. We hope you'll catch the vision, too, and join us in our our efforts to make ministry to homeschooling families a priority for churches everywhere.
Request an information pack from FCHM on how you can start or become an FCHM co-op byclicking this link.
Jay and Heidi St. John have six children who range in age from 4 to 18. Their desire to see churches reach out in support of homeschooling families prompted them to found First Class Homeschool Ministries. For more information on First Class or to contact the St. Johns, please send feel free to send them an email or call 360-326-8826.
2009 Benefit Answers Prayer
Struggling Economy Doesn't Matter to God!
As we planned this year's FCHM Benefit it was our prayer that the Lord would help us share our vision in a clear and direct way that people would understand.
The Lord answered the prayer that our vision would resonate with those in attendance, and approximately 50 families made pledge commitments totaling more than $2000 monthly. By working together for a common, God-inspired purpose those 50 families have made it possible for us to hire our first-ever FCHM employee.
Those who attended the Benefit met Nicole Swaim who is now working 25-hours a week in our US-Digital Outreach Center offices. We are so grateful to the Lord and to those who committed to make this milestone possible and we pray that the Lord will richly bless each family whose pledge helped answer our prayers.
Nicole's work is vital as she is the primary support for the dozens of FCHM volunteers.
Thank you for helping us support homeschooling families everywhere!
2009 FCHM Leader's Conference
At First Class, we're passionate about ministry to homeschooling families. FCHM co-ops are not simply homeschool cooperatives that are structured well and run effectively - they are life-changing ministries.
First Class Homeschool Ministries annual leadership conference is this coming Friday!
Just a few of the topics we'll be covering:
*Effective Leadership* *Bookkeeping* *Non-profit rules* *Functioning as a ministry of a church* *Choosing leadership team members*
...
and more! November 13-14
Vancouver, WA
US Digital Outreach Center
Cost is just $20/person and includes a continental breakfast and lunch.
If you're part of an FCHM Co-op leadership team, register online today!
A weekly newsletter to encourage homeschool families
October 13, 2009
Working on the Homeschool Assembly Line By: Steve Lambert - FCHM Board of Directors
On October 7, 1913 the world saw it's first-ever assembly line. Henry Ford envisioned a great new way to improve the efficiency of automobile manufacturing. But at what human cost?
Oh, the financial cost began to plummet of course, but the value of a human soul began to parallel that downward course. Up until this date, 96 years ago- automobiles were assembled the way you might bake a cake. One or two men bolted wheels on, installed the engine, added the body, connected the steering wheel, hooked up the lights, etc. When they were finished after several days, they stood back and admired their craftsmanship. And then they began the task all over again.
Ford changed all that and today an assembly line worker is the right-side tire man (or woman) installing two wheels and ten lug nuts every minute or two until they retire. Efficient? Yes. Mind-numbing? You'd better believe it!
Is your homeschool a craftsman's shop or an assembly line? Do you "build" each child uniquely, savoring the process of adding to their knowledge a little each day, working on every area using different tools and admiring the emerging young man or woman as they grow?
Or are you running an educational assembly line for maximum efficiency? Are you teaching every child in exactly the same way? Are you teaching every subject exactly the same way? Do both your math and your history lessons look identical: New concept on Monday, review on Wednesday and test on Friday? Have you become a specialist in just one style of teaching to the exclusion of the many other ways to teach successfully? At what price to your soul? And at what price to your childrens souls? There's an old saying I love: "If your only tool is a hammer, pretty soon everything begins looking like a nail." Do all of your children look like identical nails to you?
Variety, they say, is the spice of life. Doing something different is what makes the day worth getting up for. Mastering new skills and learning new techniques adds freshness to our schedule. Assembly lines slowly suck the Life out of us.
Near the very beginning in Genesis 1:26 the Bible tells us that the Lord had an idea: "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness..."
So what is the God like? He's creative and diverse beyond all imagining. When He set out to create beetles, he created more than 350,000 unique varieties. Wouldn't ONE kind of beetle have been enough? Wouldn't it have been far more efficient to make all beetles exactly the same? Wouldn't it have been efficient to create one star, or if you wanted several stars to have created them all identical; develop a pattern and then crank 'em out! But that's not God's way. Scientists estimate (guess?) there are between 100 billion and 1 trillion stars in most galaxies. Our galaxy has about 200 billion and is pretty average. And how many galaxies are there? The best scientific estimate is somewhere between 100 billion and one trillion. (That's a pretty wide range, by the way!) So do the math and you'll find that there are likely somewhere between ten sextillion and and one septillion stars in the universe. Let's don't even THINK about planets, moons, meteors, comets and the myriad of other sky objects. Let's look at those two numbers: 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 is 10 sextillion and 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 is 1 septillion IF I counted all the zeroes correctly.
And each one is unique. No two are alike. Every single one is different from all the others. If there are a septillion stars in God's universe He created every one of them individually- one by one, shaping and forming it with his Words and speaking each one into existence unlike any other star out there.
And the same is true for the 10,000 bird species, the 25,000 fish species and so forth. And within each species, no two fish are alike, no two birds are alike and no two beetles are alike- any more than any of the septillion stars is alike. God is an incomprehensibly diverse and creative God- and you were created in His image.
Why not take time this week to ask the Lord about ways to be more creative in your homeschooling; ways to enjoy more craftsmanship as you work with each child individually, approching each subject and each day with a freshness and a creativity that reflects the God who created you. And ask Him for ways to take the soul-numbing assembly line out of homeschooling for both you and your children.
Married for more than 38 years and in full-time ministry for more than 25 years, Steve and his wife Jane began homeschooling in 1982. Together they publish the award-winning homeschool curriculum "Five in a Row", (written by Jane) while maintaining a busy website, speaking, doing marriage retreats, mentoring other national homeschool leaders and enjoying their five amazing grandchildren. Steve and Jane currently serve on the Board of Directors for First Class Homeschool Ministries.
First Class Homeschool Ministries is a federally recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. That means we are support driven ministry. Your financial support is greatly appreciated as we work to serve homeschool families around the world!
Center For
Neuro Development
8907 C Gravelly Lake Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington 98499
Phone (253) 581-1588
Keys for unlocking ADHD, LD, Autism and More!
Fall Schedule at the Center – What’s Happening at the Center?
It is not too late to get started for the school year. We will have our regular, free introductory seminar on September 14 at 6:00 p.m. See below for class offerings. Contact us to find out how to get started: – maggie@centerforneurodevelopment.com (253) 581-1588 You are welcome to forward this newsletter or print it out for distribution as long as you include all of our contact information.
Also, this month we will begin a 6-week series given by Dr. Gary Kiefer, one of our medical advisors. Every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. beginning on September 16, he will address health issues that affect learning – Heal Your Body, Heal Your Mind, Heal Your Family. Below you will find an introduction to Dr. Kiefer.
Position Available: Brain Training Coordinator
We are praying for God to send us a person or persons who will train to work with our clients and their parents on implementing Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plans. Contact us for more details.
Classroom / Meeting Space Available
Want to earn some extra cash? Offer classes for homeschoolers in the afternoons. Or, use our meeting room for evening activities. If you would like to offer classes or hold activities in our center, please contact us for information, schedule a time to come by to visit our center so we can get to know you and show you around.
Meet Our Medical Advisor – Dr. Gary Kiefer NMD
Naturopathic Medicine
Dr. Kiefer is a graduate of Kent State University with a BA in Sociology. His early clinical career began by working in the field of addiction counseling and rehabilitation. Later he earned a degree in Natural Science. His thirst for natural healing became a personal lifestyle along with a growing love of organic gardening and herbal medicine led him to the study of natural healing. He received his Naturopathic Medicine degree at Bastyr University. For the last fifteen years he has studied and used German homeopathic remedies in combination with digestive remedies and a healthy diet. He continues to update his medical skills on a regular basis, a habit he does not want to break.
A Book Review by Maggie Dail, M.A.
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
www.specialhelps.com
Feed Your Body Right
Lendon H. Smith, M.D.
M. Evans and Company, Inc.
New York, 1994
I. Key Points of the Book
A. Why Do I Get Sick - At Least Two Factors ( p. 15-18)
1. Your Unique Chemistry - one size does not fit all
2. Genetics Explains Some Diseases - only one factor
B. How I Got From There to Here - Dr. Smith's story (p. 19-22)
1. His and most doctor's training - Drugs, Drugs, Drugs is the answer
2. John Kitkoski Appears - John contacted Dr. Smith
a. John had studied animals and plants and was now ready for humans
b. Sense of smell and taste are hooked up with the brain.
C. A Very Brief History of Mankind's Efforts to Improve Health (p. 23-28)
1. Hippocrates - (born 460 BC) Accurate observations; "he believed that diseases were the result of natural causes. Let your medicine be your food, and your food be your medicine." P. 23
2. Acupuncture and Ayurvedic Medicines - (4,000 BC) "Most of the world's populations used local plants, teas, extracts, and poultices, but the knowledge was transferred orally and some medical methods have been lost." P. 23
3. Galen - (born 130 AD) Born Greek and moved to Rome. He washed gladiators' wounds with red wine, saving them from fatal wounds. "He did believe, however, that some weakness of the patient allowed sickness to invade." P. 24
4. Paracelsus - (born Switzerland in 1493) Broke from Galen's dogma; he gathered empirical information by traveling and visiting many practitioners; "He felt nature should heal wounds, but he did introduce mercury, sulfur, lead, gold, and even arsenic to the therapeutic armamentarium. Some of his treatments ended up as cures." In those days cures were few as average life span was 20-30 years. P. 24
5. James Lind - (18th century) convinced British government that citrus fruits prevented scurvy in sailors; took 50 years to convince.
6. Pasteur - (born 1822) discovered the bacteria that were associated with disease; "finally admitted on his deathbed that it was the territory (the body) that, when weakened, allowed the germs to invade." P. 25
7. Efforts in healing included: bloodletting, mercury salts, arsenic, herbs…aspirin, purges, baths, mercury treatments… p. 25
8. Death was the result: pneumonia, TB, typhoid fever, abscesses, osteomyelitis, meningitis, scarlet fever, peritonitis, erysipelas, childbed fever --- all bacterial infections. P. 25
9. Addiction - "In 1912 a higher percentage of people were addicted to morphine than at any time in American history." (in cough syrup) P. 25 - "The Harrison Narcotic Act of 1912 put a damper on morphine's use." P. 26
10. In 1918-19 Typhoid Mary (influenza epidemic) and streptococcus passed on to public by milk handlers. P. 26
11. Early 20th Century "Cures" - sleep with window open, drink three glasses of pure spring water daily, walk in fresh air 30 minutes daily, keep the bowels open, have no negative thoughts, "(Dancing, however, was thought to produce pelvic congestion and increase the risk of sterility for both male and female!) p. 26
12. "In the second decade of (the 20th) century the members of the American Medical Association decided that they alone were privy to the scientific basis of medical practice. …the eliminated some medical diploma mills of the time and laid down a rigorous curriculum aimed at teaching medical aspirants the "science" of medicine." "It seemed a natural progression of logic to blame bacteria for disease; the 'territory' was not important. It was the pathogen. They could now see the little bugs." (with better microscopes) p. 26
13. Antibiotics - arrived in 1930s and 1940s; allopaths put all their stock in the antibiotics. 50 years later…they would see the damage by failing "to address the problem of why the person (territory) got sick in the first place." P. 26-27
14. The medicine that Dr. Smith's Dad practiced in the 1920s and 1930s. Dr. Smith lived to see the folly of many of the treatments his Dad, a well respect physician, used.
15. "Allopathic medicine is 'modern' medicine. Make a diagnosis, and cure the disease with drugs. One definition is 'produce a condition in the body incompatible with the disease.' If you have enough penicillin in you, you will not have a strep throat. By the same token, if you can improve the power of the immune system, the body can do the job itself without the drugs that have their toxic effects." P. 28
? A Writer’s Guide To Powerful Paragraphs
? Biographies – 8 books and 8 essays
? Write Your Roots –by Carol Thaxton
? Learn to Write the Novel Way by Carol Thaxton
? Literature and Christianity 1 Tape/3 books/9 essays
? Writing Powerful Personal Narratives / College Applications
? Contemporary Issues and Position Papers
? How Should We Then Live and Position Papers
Courses may be customized. Contact us for details
2009-2010 Online Class
ECONOMICS / COMPOSITION
Students read books and respond to questions posed by the instructor – short answer, paragraphs or essays – on a private yahoo group.
Politically Incorrect Guide to Capitalism
Uncle Eric’s: What ever Happened to Penny Candy?; The Clipper Ship Strategy and The Money Mystery
Academy Northwest Classes
2009-2010
Tuesdays – 1:00-3:00
1st Semester - Life Practicum - .5 credit
2nd Semester - Integrated Science Lab – up to 1.0 Credit
Homeschool Helps Classes
Spanish – Family Fun with Conversational Spanish – Tuesday evenings 6:00-8:00
Elementary Class – This class covers a variety of areas using Charlotte Mason methods with elements of Classical Education. Thursday – 1:00-3:00
? Picture This – book of Bible and memory verses
? Logic Activities (Critical Thinking Press)
? Exposure to French, German and Spanish
? Latin and Greek Roots for English vocabulary
? Science Kit (www.homeschoolscience.com)
? Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer
Brain Training – Individualized (Diagnostic) Math, Language Arts or Neurodevelopmental Program – Up to 3 hour periods to provide a combination of neurodevelomentally friend stations and one-on-one time with teacher.
Up to 5 days a week. Monday – Thursday
10:00-1:00 or Monday – Friday 4:00-5:00
Classes and Seminars for Parents
Able to Teach – Family Academy’s parent qualifying class.
Offered as hybrid (class and online)at:
TCC in Tacoma and Gig Harbor
(253) 566-5020 and (253) 851-2424
Pierce College – South Hill Park
(253) 964-6502
and completely online through:
Cascade Bible College (Family Academy contact) (800) 877-4586
Homeschooling the High Schooler – contact us for information.
Maximize Your Child’s Learning Potential – 2 hour seminar. www.specialhelps.com (Offered free 2nd Monday evening of every month at the Center for Neuro Development at 6:00 p.m.)
Brain Development and Learning (Reading, Math, Other Subjects) – sometimes given as an all day or series of 2 hour seminars.
www.specialhelps.com
If you would like to offer a class in our building contact us:
Maggie@homeschoolhelps.com or (253) 581-1588
For more information about us: www.centerforneurodevelopment.com
ANW Tuition
ONE CREDIT OPTION PER SEMESTER $100.00
Full Load Option Per Year –
Registration - $90.00 (by 6/20)
$125.00 (after 6/20)
Tuition- $480.00
Homeschool Helps Tuition- Monthly
BRAIN TRAINING
– AM - 4 days a week –
– $300 per month
– OR
– PM - 5 days a week
– $200 per month
Ask about other payment options.
ANW Classes -Online or In Center
$75 month – each class
Non-ANW Online or In Center Classes
$50.00 – each class
Independent Classes
Homeschool Music Class Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd – 4th Grade
Tuesdays, 1:00 pm, 55 minutes
September 22, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $65
Class minimum: 10
This class is designed to teach basic music theory, beginning vocal technique, and performance. The final class will be a dress rehearsal for a culminating performance celebrating Veteran’s Day that evening. Younger siblings not eligible for class, but who have memorized the songs will be invited to participate in the final rehearsal and performance. Class fee includes a practice cd.
Homeschool Art Class - Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd-4th Grade
Tuesdays, 2:15 p.m. 74 minutes
September 8, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $85
Class minimum: 10
“All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
Pablo Picasso
This hands-on course will introduce students to different mediums and modes of artistic expression. Ranging from one-dimensional portraits to three-dimensional sculptures, the students will enjoy learning while creating. Students will be required to bring basic supplies to each session, and will leave each week with at least one project they have created.
About Mrs. Aimee Wilkins:
Junior High/High School: Girl’s Ensemble, choir
1992 – 2000: I both sang and played for Sunday school, kid's camps, second grade classroom, elementary school chapel (K-6), and staff devotional/worship time.
2003-2007: I both sang and played guitar for Sunday school K-2 and Kids Summer Camp.
2003 – Present: I sing and play guitar for Women’s Ministry (groups of 200 to about 2,000)
I began taking voice lessons again in the fall of 2004 and have continued until present. I learned to play guitar after I graduated from high school, and have continued to gain knowledge through the years while playing with other professional musicians.
--
Maggie Dail, MA
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
www.centerforneurodevelopment.com
What's New??
You can follow the St. John's blog on Facebook! Automatically receive their blog posts in your News Feed. Login and click the "Follow" button!
FCHM has a new address! Our old address expires on September 9th.
Please send support and correspondence to us at our new offices at the US Digital Outreach Center: 1400 NE 136th Avenue Ste 201 Vancouver, WA 98684
It's Homeschool Pre-Season ~ Just Like the NFL! By Steve Lambert
FCHM Board of Directors
Leave it to a man to think about homeschooling in football terminology! I'm a football kind of a guy and I follow the NFL training camps going on around the country right now, and of course the NFL pre-season where we get to see whether that training is producing any measurable results.
Depending on when you plan to start homeschooling this year, perhaps you're in pre-season training camp right now too. The Bible has lots of wisdom on the topic. Did you know that? The NFL is in the Bible?!? NO- not the NFL!! Training camp for homeschoolers is in the Bible.
1 Cor. 9:25 reminds us "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."
Time to begin training our bodies for a productive homeschool year. Let's not be distracted. Training camp means getting to bed early, eating three healthy meals each day and developing daily discipline.
2 Tim. 3:16 tells us that "all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."
Another essential for homeschool training camp: Daily time in the word? Check!
1 Tim. 4:8 deals with two areas; "For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."
Our homeschool training camp checklist is getting full now: Some daily physical fitness or aerobic training is of "some value" since it reduces stress levels and helps us focus. But let's not neglect Godly character which holds great promise. Let's focus on developing the fruits of the Spirt too. If you missed yesterday's entry about our Christmas shopping list NOW is a good time to read it!
So there you go- Some pre-season activities for homeschool training camp that will produce results when "the game" begins in the classroom all too soon. Develop disciplined daily habits in sleep, nutrition, prayer, worship, Bible study, exercise and character development and you'll be AMAZED at how well you'll "play" this season!
See ya at kickoff time!!
Steve
Married for more than 38 years and in full-time ministry for more than 25 years, Steve and his wife Jane began homeschooling in 1982. Together they publish the award-winning homeschool curriculum "Five in a Row", (written by Jane) while maintaining a busy website, speaking, doing marriage retreats, mentoring other national homeschool leaders and enjoying their five amazing grandchildren. Steve and Jane currently serve on the Board of Directors for First Class Homeschool Ministries. Steve also has a wonderful blog for homeschoolers. Check it out here.
Keep up to date on the St. John's and their ministry! Click below to visit:
As Jay likes to say, "BIG...FINISH!!" And that's exactly what we did. Our little RV finally gave up the ghost 40 miles north of our home. God was watching over us, and thankfully, the transmission went out just as we were nearing a rest stop. Jay coasted into the rest area where we began calling and facebooking to let people know we were "almost" home. Within minutes, we had more help than we asked for. It was amazing.
Our thanks to the MANY people who have supported us this summer - for your prayers and financial support that literally carried us 11,148 miles. At the end of the trip we found ourselves unloading our motorhome in a parking lot, surrounded by friends from First Class co-ops in three different locations! It took three mini-vans, one tow truck (thanks Payne family!), a pickup truck, a 15 passenger van and a suburban to pack us and our stuff home.
Churches and Homeschooling Families: A Powerful Partnership for a New Generation
by Heidi St. John
First Class is passionate about supporting homeschoolers - and about connecting homeschooling families through their local church.
Jay and Heidi St. John, Founders and Executive Directors of FCHM have said that "Churches should be light houses for homeschoolers" and that sentiment is rapidly growing as pastors partner wth parents to create FCHM co-ops in their churches.
These communities are making a difference, not only in the families they serve but in the communities they are placed in. Find out why in this article written for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.
FCHM Members receive a discount on HSLDA Membership.
HSLDA is committed to protecting your right to homeschool under the law. You can support them in their efforts and receive HSLDA membership benefits by joining their organization.
Contact you local First Class leadership for the discount code.
The St. John family in Virginia with Mike and Elizabeth Smith.
Mike Smith is the President of HSLDA.
Hello fellow homeschoolers and friends of First Class Homeschool Ministries,
I'm writing to you tonight to share some sad and maddening news. The St. John's, founders of First Class Homeschool Ministries, are traveling across the US sharing with people about homeschooling and enouraging pastors to get involved as well as holding workshops, etc. They have encountered numerous difficulties since they began their journey but today was the worst so far. They were in New Orleans today and decided to take the family to see the French Quarter. Parked their motorhome and began their journery which only lasted about 3 blocks when they had seen more than they wished to and returned to their motorhome to find it had been broken in and trashed. They have lost 3 laptops, cameras, video cameras, the kids blankets, their tv and all their dvds and much more. They are shaken but thankful they are all safe.
Many people have already been asking how can we send them a donation when they're on the road so I wanted to offer a suggestion, Paypal. If you go to this site:
Thanks for all the love you show your family and all the ways in which you do it.
Thank you for homeschooling your children! Your efforts are having an impact that will be felt for generations to come. The TIME alone is a priceless investment into capturing the hearts and minds of your children for the glory of God.
So, Homeschool Mom, for all the things you do...
Child Training
Math retaining
Owie doctor
Test proctor
Baby holder
Laundry folder
Teacher of the year
Bubble blowing
Adverb knowing
Dinner maker
Tie breaker
Faith imparting
High School starting
Calming others fears
You're amazing,
Homeschool mom
For all the things you do -
On Mother's Day and every day
Our hats are off to you!
heidi st.john
From everyone at First Class Homeschool Ministries... Happy Mother's Day!
Jay, Heidi and the Kids
(ages 3-17) from the left tree to the right...
Skylar, Spencer, Summer, Sierra, Sydney, Savannah
Click here to see if the St.Johns will be speaking in your area this summer!
If you are interested in finding out about the ministry of FCHM or would like to have the St. Johns speak at your event, now is the time to book a summer workshop!
Here is a list of the workshops available:
Real Life Homeschooling
Notebooking
Lapbooking
Multi-Level Teaching
Homeschooling Teens
Time Management for Dummies
Workshops are only $10 each and can be taught in an evening!
Brought to you by
Multnomah University
The Old Schoolhouse
Magazine
FCHM
To find out if the
St. Johns will be in your area, please contact Melissa Lowery.
Interested in reading previous ezines?
Click below to view our archive.
FCHM is excited to announce a new partnership with our friends at the
Homeschool Buyers Co-op!
What is Homeschool Buyers Co-op?
"An amazing resource that combines the buying power of thousands upon thousands of individual homeschool families to obtain discounts equivalent to those obtained by school districts. Membership is free and completely confidential. The Co-op's signature service is a "Group Buy" through which Co-op members get deep discounts on curriculum items that would otherwise be extremely expensive. Through the Co-op you can save anywhere from 20% to 80% on your curriculum purchases. The Co-op has standing discounts of 50% for Discovery Education's video-streaming service, 88% for Kaplan's Online SAT prep, up to 70% for Thinkwell, and the list goes on. We'd also like to note that it's run by a homeschool family."
Academic SuperstoreUp to 70% off and FREE S/H
Software; Hardware; Courseware;
Preschool to Grad School
Now, by special arrangement with Academic Superstore, Homeschool Buyers Co-op members can purchase hardware, software and more from hundreds of manufacturers with the same discounts available to schools -- up to 70% off retail pricing.
Get deep discounts on products from Adobe, Microsoft, Macromedia, Symantec, and more!
Proof of Co-op membership is required at time of purchase.
Free S/H items marked accordingly at website.
None of These Things Move Me
Acts 20:24-But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
If you watch the news or have access to the internet, you've heard it. It's all over. Times are hard. Nevermind that the news outlets thrive on bad news... we still soak it in like a sponge and quite often, the result is fear and worry. Once we begin to worry, we are right where the enemy wants us. It's easy to worry about things we cannot control (getting laid off or the rising price of food) and forget that we serve the One who "owns the cattle on a thousand hills". It's easy to forget where our hope lies. Christians, our hope is not in a president or a booming economy; it is in the Lord!
"Some may trust in horses,
some may trust in chariots,
but we will trust in the name of our God!" Psalm 20:7
As homeschooling families we have chosen to accept the responsibility - the joys and the struggles- that come along with home education. We cannot afford to take our eyes off the goal of raising our children to love and serve the Lord. We must learn to trust Him fully ~ whether it's to provide money for house payments or curriculum, it all comes from Him.
If our goal is to be like the Apostle Paul's... and "finish the course with JOY" then we must know where the source of true joy is found. It is found in Christ alone, and it grows as we commit to following Jesus through every circumstance.
Something we have done as a family is to pray for others in our co-op. It's amazing how God uses the circumstances of others to teach us. It's also wonderful to know that when we go through hard times, we have an extended family at First Class praying for us! A co-op is a lot like a local church body. In good times, it's a blessing and in hard times, it's essential.
Being part of a community of homeschooling families who can share each other's burdens and pray together is a blessing you cannot afford to miss out on. Satan wants you to be isolated, especially in tough times. If you are not connected with First Class, you can be!
It is the mission and ministry of FCHM to surround homeschoolers with the support and encouragement of their local church through a church-sponsored homeschool cooperative. When times are tough, holding on to another Christian homeschooler and declaring together that our trust is in the Lord creates a steadfastness that is unmatched through the ages.
The Apostle Paul was unmoved by his circumstances and so are we. As brothers and sisters in the Lord we declare together with one voice that come what may, we will trust in the name of our God.
With Confidence in Him,
Jay and Heidi St. John have been married for 19 years and are the homeschooling parents of six children who range in age from seventeen to three. Heidi speaks to mothers with humor and grace on many subjects dealing with homeschooling. If you are interested in having the St. Johns speak at your event, please contact them through FCHM.
Power of a Praying Mom
By Teresa Hyde
FCHM's Prayer Facilitator
Power... I want some of that! If you are like me, I am always open to more power to take on all that life throws at me each day. The power that I speak of comes from being willing to let go of control over my life each day, and surrender my thoughts, actions and words before my Father in heaven. In Jeremiah 33:3 the Lord reminds us, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable thing you do not know." Many times the Lord has used this and many other verses in His word to woo me into prayer with Him. He desires to encourage us each moment of the day with His presence and power. That is what I love about prayer... it brings me into the presence with the ONE who has every answer to my needs, and who holds the world in His hands. Prayer lifts my eyes out of my circumstances and puts my thoughts on an eternal perspective.
Prayer is a way of life. For me, it is like breathing. I breathe in a need and pray out a cry to my Father in heaven; knowing He hears and will answer according to His will. Prayer does not have to be formal. For many of us, we pray in places people would never imagine. It is time to talk with our King.
At other times, I am called to meet with other women and pray for the needs of our children, homeschool co-ops and families. What a blessing it has been to be used by God in prayer, and hear how the Lord answers the prayers of His people. Prayer draws me closer with other homeschool moms; as we lift one another to the Lord. Prayer closes the gap of distance between homeschool families. I have been so encouraged as I have prayed for women across the United States and Canada. The Lord has used many of them to uplift me as I have prayed for their needs. I come away with renewed strength, hope, and power for the days ahead.
As a mom, prayer has been the cornerstone of raising kids who desire an alive, active and vital walk with God. I feel the most important thing I can teach my children is to pray. Through the years, prayer has strengthened my children's faith; as they have had their prayers answered in many ways. Prayer teaches them to come to the foot of the cross and pray... not my will, but thy will be done. Prayer has impacted my life in so many ways... but I am most blessed when I hear my kids say, "that happened because my mom prayed!"
As I close, I want to pray over you Ephesians 3:16-21, " I pray that out of His glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses all knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Teresa Hyde and her husband Kaare (pronounced Corey) have been married for 13 years. They moved to Vancouver, WA 11 years ago from southern California. The Hydes have been homeschooling their two boys are Jared (12) and Noah (10) for the last two years. The Hyde family is a part of First Class Clark County West, in Vancouver, WA. Teresa facilitates the prayer ministry for FCHM co-ops nationwide.
Homeschooling doesn't have to mean home alone!
Join the growing community FCHM members online
and at your local First Class!
*NEW* First Class on Facebook: we're over 200 members now! Link to FCHM on Facebook
FCHM members who are also part of facebook can join this group and post on the wall, get to know each other, write about their group, post pictures.
First Class "Causes" on Facebook: First Class "Causes" Link
You can support FCHM in our mission of planting homeschool co-ops around the world through the local church. You can comment, and even donate to FCHM here!
First Class Homeschool Ministries' Message Boards: www.firstclasshomeschool.org/forum/index.php
Now this is a really cool thing - if we can get it to get some more traffic. Hmm. Still thinking about how to do that. There are 246 members on the message boards now, but they are not very busy. We'd love to hear your thoughts on how to increase visits and really use these boards to encourage homeschoolers!
First Class Homeschool Chat on Google: http://groups.google.com/group/fchm-homeschoolchat?hl=en
This is the national "chat". Most co-ops also have local chats as well. Subscribe to it, and you can share email back and forth with the group. Members decide how they want their emails to come so that they don't get a bunch of unwanted emails.
Have you accessed your member downloads at the FCHM website? All you need is your email and password. FCHM is easy to contact if a password is lost or forgotten.
First Class is committed to growing a national network of church-sponsored homeschool cooperatives,
and we're excited to see tremendous growth in 2009!FF
First Class Homeschool Ministries is a federally recognized Non-profit ministry, or 501(c)3.
Your support allows us to help parents and pastors start homeschool co-ops all over the world!
WATCH Notes
What's new, great sites,
tips & upcoming events
Greetings!
Welcome to this month's issue of WATCH Notes. As the newly dawning spring begins to woo us from our winter lethargy, we want to offer you some timely news, internet offerings, and support and
encouragement to help make your homeschooling journey a delight. This month's online radio talk show - WATCHTalk with Diana Waring - will be on Tuesday, March 10, at 1:00 p.m., and features Todd Wilson.
March Episode:
"Lies Homeschooling Moms Believe" - Todd Wilson
WATCHTalk w/Diana Waring
Join us via your computer as Diana interviews homeschooling dad and cartoonist Todd Wilson, of FamilyMan Ministries. Todd is the author of "Lies Homeschooling Moms Believe" and will be one of the keynotes for the 2009 WATCH Homeschool Conference & Family Retreat. If you miss it, you can always listen to the archived show! To listen, click here.
Years ago, I remember reading about a woman swimmer who had the ludicrous idea of swimming across a very large body of water. She prepared for years for the incredible event, training everyday for the big swim.
When the day finally arrived, she slathered her body with a greasy slime to prevent jellyfish stings, plunged into the cold water, and began swimming. Stroke after stroke, hour after hour, she plugged away in hopes of reaching the other shore. She felt strong and her hopes were high.
But the wind changed, and a dense fog rolled in, cutting visibility to almost nothing. Along with the fog came doubts that clouded the swimmer's vision. Suddenly, she felt unsure that she was swimming in the right direction. Uncertainty filled her mind. Her thoughts began to paralyze her: maybe she was off course. . .shouldn't she have reached her goal by now. . .maybe she would never get to the other side. . .she might even drown from exhaustion. . .
Her arms became heavy, her breath labored, and her legs felt like lead. Several times she stopped and treaded water while looking in several directions. She was lost, way off her target, with no hope of reaching her goal. She had been beaten, and in defeat, she asked to be pulled from the water into the boat that floated alongside her.
But here's the interesting part of the story. . .After getting into the boat, she discovered that she was very close to the shore and to her goal, but the fog had hindered her and her team from seeing that. All she would have had to do was swim for a little while longer and she would have done it. But she didn't. Instead, she believed the lie that she was hopelessly lost and defeated.
It's a sad story, but one that is played out everyday in homeschools all over the world. Moms who have been plugging away suddenly find themselves lost in a fog of weariness, unrealistically high standards, and exhaustion. The goal is obscured and all hope of success has vanished. Spent homeschooling moms climb back into the boat and admit, "I can't do it," not realizing that they're right on course and close to reaching the other side.
You see, lies blind you from seeing the truth and leave you feeling defeated and alone. One of the surest ways you can tell whether what you believe is the truth or simply a counterfeit lie is by the weight of the burden you feel.
Truth doesn't weigh you down with guilt and despair; it lifts you up with hope and joy. I love how Jesus said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is EASY and My burden is LIGHT." (Matt 11:29-30)
Jesus' instructions were spoken to a group of people who had been served up a heaping plate of counterfeit truths. The most spiritual people of that time had added many things "to do" to the people's to-do list. There were rules on how to dress, work, and eat, along with rules on just about everything else. The people were weighted down with guilt in trying to keep the 'unkeepable' rules. They tried but knew inside that they failed more than they succeeded, and the joy had been sapped from their bones.
Then Jesus came and pulled down the prison walls that held them captive and set them free. That's why the people claimed, "His teachings are so different." And that's also why the 'spiritual' leaders hated him so much and were shocked by his liberal approach.
Jesus taught the truth and it felt so good to the people. That's what the truth-God's truth-feels like. It is light and easy. Yes, there are instructions on how we are to live, work, and act, but they are not meant to be burdensome and should never leave us feeling defeated.
Todd Wilson will be one of our keynote speakers this year at the 2009 WATCH Homeschool Conference & Family Retreat.
Announcements for Washington State Homeschoolers
#1) Washington Homeschool Organization announces the next WHO Day at the Capitol, March 17 in Olympia. WATCH families are welcomed to join in this opportunity to watch the Legislature in action, take a tour of the Capitol buildings, and meet with your own legislators. For more information, click here.
#2) The Leadership Institute will be holding a Youth Leadership School in Seattle on April 3rd and 4th. This is a great opportunity for young conservatives to learn how to lead in politics; they will learn all the nuts and bolts of communication and political leadership. The Youth Leadership School is an intense, two-day training program packed with 23 hours of lectures and exercises in which they will learn how to write press releases, get out the vote, get supporters, raise money, host speakers, utilize volunteers, and much more. Click here to register.
#3) Homeschool Days at the Space Needle - Tuesday, March 24, and Tuesday, May 12. The Space Needle would like to invite all homeschoolers to check out the SkySchool program and SkyQ technology. Special rates available on these 2 days. Click here to make your reservation. For any further questions, please call Megan Wright at (206) 905-2186, or email her:
meganw@spaceneedle.com
#4) A homeschooling family in Virginia recently launched home-schooler.com, a new website offering classified ads, forums, and other resources for homeschoolers. It is free to use the site and free to join the forums. Check it out!
#5) Valley Home Scholars is pleased to be hosting the 2009 Inland Northwest Homeschool Conference in Spokane. The Conference will be held on March 27 - 28, 2009, and will offer encouragement and support to homeschooling families. This two-day event will feature Christopher J. Klicka, Senior Counsel for Home School Legal Defense Association, as the keynote speaker. Chris is a popular national speaker and author of several homeschooling books. His wife, Tracy, will also be leading workshops.
#6) WATCH 2009 Graduation is in the planning stages for the end of May. Check here for updates.
#7) WATCH 2009 Homeschool Conference & Family Retreat begins Thursday night, August 6 and continues through August 8 at Seattle Pacific University. Our keynote speakers are Ken Ham of Answers in Genesis and Todd Wilson of Familyman Ministries, with special Thursday night speaker, Terry Small of Terry Small Learning Corporation.
The Homeschool Concierge Presents:
As David sang in Psalms 19:1-3:
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
That is one of the reasons I enjoy the night sky, especially when I find a dark rural area where light pollution from cities does not interfere and you can see the streak of the Milky Way across the sky. Since it so often is cloudy and rainy here in the Pacific northwest (and because I live in a city) I sometimes use commercial astronomy programs for my explorations. Those programs cost money, but now there is a free program, Celestia, that runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X computers that I think you would enjoy.
But a truly unique aspect of this program is that you can also travel in the comfort of your computer chair to any of over 100,000 stars, or even beyond the galaxy! As the developers state, the exponential zoom feature lets you explore space across a huge range of scales, from galaxy clusters down to spacecraft only a few yards across. A 'point-and-go to' interface makes it simple to navigate through the universe to the object you want to visit.
Celestia comes with a large catalog of stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and spacecraft that you can view in photorealistic fashion. If that's not enough, you can download dozens of easy to install add-ons with more objects.
Just remember, wherever you go in God's incredible universe Psalm 139:7-8 says:
7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
Have fun.
Todd Wilson's Cartoon
WATCH & Pray
"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Jesus said this, quoted from Matthew 5:44.
Most of us who identify ourselves as God's family merely think we have enemies. And most of us think praying is merely a good idea. A few of us have literally been attacked and harmed by someone who could be called an enemy. And a few of us actually take time and care to pray regularly, interceding for others along biblical lines.
Personally, I felt I was really persecuted once and I have felt lately like I am really giving attention to prayer for others. Those who have been attacked and violated know what it is to forgive and pray for an enemy. Those who contrive enemies, sometimes take longer to get there. A friend mistakenly wrote that American Christians are being persecuted by our media, while others claim that we have enemies in opposing political parties; in public schools officials; in family and friends who bother us about our home schooling decision; with bureaucrats monitoring our behavior towards our children. But, even if these were our enemies, what is our response? Not, Pray about it. Pray for them! We do not pray that God will take them out, but FOR them. If God were to bless the people in authority over us, we would see peace and goodness in our state. If we would stop naming our enemies but spend the time instead praying that God will protect, lead, advise, and save them, then we would reap benefits with them.
Finally, if you have been a follower of Jesus any time at all, you have read verses like 2 Corinthians 10 and Ephesians 6 and you know that your enemies are not people but spirit, and your weapons are not person to person but spiritual. Pray to take every thought captive. Pray that evil fortresses will be pulled down. Pray against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Pray for peace.
Your mayor and city council are at work today; Olympia legislators are still in session; Congress is still in session; Obama is with his cabinet; there is genocide, war disease and despair -- and persecution -- in many countries. Teach your children to pray for these people.
Pray for us, we pray for you, and maybe it will be our lives that are changed!
Thank you. Bill Waring, WATCH President
How can you be a part of the ministry of WATCH?
We're glad you asked!
#1) Please pray regularly for this ministry:
wisdom, provision, grace for the work, volunteers.
#2) Consider becoming a member. Click here for more
information.
#3) Ask the Lord if He would have you share in the work of this
ministry through a special financial donation or through a
donation of your time as a volunteer.
The WATCH Board is thankful for the opportunity to serve YOU!
WATCH Notes
What's new, great sites,
tips & upcoming events
Greetings!
Welcome to our first issue of WATCH Notes, a newly styled newsletter for 2009. Be sure to check out our exciting new online radio talk show - WATCHTalk with Diana Waring - which premiers Tuesday, February 3 at 1:00 p.m. Our first guest is Sally Clarkson, noted homeschool mom, author and speaker. Also in this issue, check out the Homeschool Concierge great online finds, laugh with Todd Wilson's cartoons, and connect with WATCH's upcoming events!
February Episode: "I Take Joy" - Sally Clarkson
WATCHTalk w/Diana Waring
Join us via your computer on February 3 at 1:00 p.m. to hear the heart-warming Sally Clarkson share what she has learned about taking joy in life, even when things are difficult. You will be glad you did! And if you missed it, you can always listen to the archived show! To listen, click here.
Gwen is my dear, cherished friend from my days as a single missionary in Poland. We committed to becoming Jonathon and David friends when we were single women living in a Communist country. Gwen always wanted to get married as she is the picture of a supportive, loyal friend who creates an incredible artistic and lovley home environment. She spent 28 years as a missionary working in Eastern Europe serving, loving and making so many feel the love of God as she served them through her apartment. During her time there, her two brothers, her father and all the relatives close to her, except for her mother, died. Now, after living in Vienna, Warsaw, and Krakow, and traveling the world and meeting with all sorts of interesting people on a daily basis, she has moved back home. Gwen lives in a small coal mining town in Kentucky in the 60 year old home in which she grew up. She is daily caring for her mom who has Alzheimer's, and has been doing so for the past 4 years. When her sweet mom, who is 92 this fall, passes to be with the Lord, Gwen will have no more relatives alive from her immediate family.
Recently, I planned a speaking engagement around a visit with Gwen on my birthday, because I knew she would spoil me. (Best friends do that for each other.) She drove with me from her house on a swelteringly hot day the 2 hours to Louisville and stood on her feet all day working at my book table. We packed up from the small conference and finally had lunch at a tiny cafe at 2:45 in the afternoon, before traveling home in time to put her mom to bed and to relieve the worker who was staying with her.
I asked her as we were lingering over our last bit of lunch, "How are you really doing?" Her almost immediate answer was, "My heart is joyful." Immediately the verse, "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones," came to my mind. "What do you mean?" I queried.
"I feel like all of us have so many choices to look at life from the perspective of a glass of water half-empty or a glass of water half-full. I have made a concerted effort over the years to look at my life in light of all that God has provided me and have willed myself to find joy in each day, thankfulness in every situation. It is better for me to find joy every day and to cultivate contentment so that I can have the strength and courage I need to face every day. If I allow myself to wallow in my dark thoughts, I just go downhill."
Being in Gwen's home, is such a picture of living joy. Though her home is tiny and in a community that has seen better days, Gwen has brought light and redemption. She has painted and restored one old, outdated room at a time, making it a place of beauty. Planting flowers and trees and restoring her yard to becoming a place of beauty has become a long term goal. Studying cook books and learning to fix gourmet meals for all who come into her home has kept her creative juices going. There is no one in her home to encourage her, to tell her that the table setting was pretty or the food delicious. Her mom, like mine, is in the blank stare phase of life, so is unable to appreciate the beauty that Gwen has created. But she is a wonderfully sweet, gentle mom who has always loved Gwennie as a child. So Gwen lives with this memory and keeps it alive as she serves her mother each day.
I always know that when I visit her, Gwen will have a verse or insight to share from the quiet times she has faithfully been having for the past 40 years. She will give me a new idea to ponder a challenging book to read-(one of several birthday presents she bestowed-Simply Christian by N.T. Wright).
When I am with Gwen, she gives me courage. If she can resist the feelings of loneliness, the questions about her long and short term future-with no assurances about what is ahead, and live graciously to serve the needs of her mother and friends, I know that I can make those choices, too, because she has modeled it for me. When she chooses to lovingly clean up her mom's various sorts of messes, thanking God for one more day with her, even though her mom doesn't always know who Gwen is, I have more strength to come home to clean up my children's messes and be grateful that I can enjoy the companionship of my children. I know that Gwennie has faced all sorts of "demons" over the years-whys? that will never be answered, lonely nights and weeks, disappointments, rejections, but it is the choices that she has made in each of these situations that has made her one of the most life-giving, encouraging people I know.
Announcements for Washington State Homeschoolers
#1) Valley Home Scholars is pleased to be hosting the 2009 Inland Northwest Homeschool Conference in Spokane. The Conference will be held on March 27 - 28, 2009, and will offer encouragement and support to homeschooling families. This two-day event will feature Christopher J. Klicka, Senior Counsel for Home School Legal Defense Association, as the keynote speaker. Chris is a popular national speaker and author of several homeschooling books. His wife, Tracy, will also be leading workshops.
#2) WATCH 2009 Graduation is in the planning stages for the end of May. Check here for updates.
#3) WATCH 2009 Homeschool Conference & Family Retreat begins Thursday night, August 6 and continues through August 8 at Seattle Pacific University. Our keynote speakers are Ken Ham of Answers in Genesis and Todd Wilson of Familyman Ministries, with special Thursday night speaker, Terry Small of Terry Small Learning Corporation.
The Homeschool Concierge Presents:
Groundhog Day comes on February 2nd. It's a silly tradition that goes way back to at least the mid-1800's.
On February 2, Phil comes out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob - in front of thousands of followers from all over the world - to "predict" the weather for the rest of winter.
According to legend, if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring. You can have some fun with your students with ideas from the Official Punxsutawney Phil website. It has a coloring page, maze, math puzzles and more to lighten your winter. Here's an active game idea: try a game of shadow tag where you "tag" a person by stepping on their shadow. Enjoy!
Young Scientist Challenge
Do you have what it takes to be America's Top Young Scientist? Discovery Education and 3M are looking for a few great students to inspire us with their enthusiasm for science, so show us what you've got! In order to enter, students must be in grades 5 through 8, and must submit a video entry between January 15, 2009 and May 20, 2009. Create a short (1-2 min.) video about one of this year's scientific topics and YOU could win a trip to New York City to compete in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge finals. Click here for all the details. It would be great to see a homeschooler win the competition!
Pop Up Books are one of your Concierge's favorites. How about you? If you've ever wondered how they make them, here is a famous popup book creator's website that shows you how to make over 40 different types of popups. What are you waiting for? Grab your scissors, paper and ruler and get going!
Rainy-Days Internet Ideas
If you're looking for something to break the routine for a change, try some of these websites for ideas: www.FunBrain.com Lots of games from science to reading, to arcade games. Your Concierge couldn't break 9 out of 10 on the easy version of Proton Dan :(
How good are you? www.preschoolexpress.com has ideas like a a daily activity calendar for each month, sock games, snow art projects, party ideas and lots more.
National Park visits are always a great adventure. But before you go, visit www.nps.gov to learn all about the park, the history, attractions best times to visit and more. You can find ideas on how to best plan your visit, find photos and multimedia info, learn the history and culture, nature and science of the park. There's even a section for teachers and kids. So click before you go and have even more fun exploring the world God has entrusted to us.
In our state we have many national parks and recreational areas to choose from: San Juan Island National Historical Park, Elbey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, Klondike Gold Rush - Seattle Unit National Historical Park (downtown Seattle), Mount Rainier National Park, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Whitman Mission National Historic Site and the Nez Perce National Historical Park. Phew! That's a lot of exploring to do!
Todd Wilson's Cartoon
WATCH & Pray
I read in Matthew again the other day about the experience where we get the term "watch and pray." It is a sad time of tremendous trial and trouble for Jesus, and we find the term used in the negative, "Could you not watch with me...Pray then..." It would have been agonizing to have been through that with Jesus, yet what a privilege it would have been -- something that one could reflect on later. Well, let's do it now.
First note, this one is from Galatians, where Paul is recounting his training experiences. He says the leaders in Jerusalem were satisfied and only asked that he should remember the poor. This month, consider that our state is above 7% unemployment rate. That will have huge impact in use of money at all levels of business, church and government -- Pray for the ones with that authority to do their jobs with compassion, integrity, and wisdom. And, of course, giving to nonprofit organizations is down, so pray also for those ministries that distribute food, cash and other aid to have their coffers filled.
Second - a praise note - we have secured the location and date for our 2009 WATCH conference at SPU. We are so pleased to have this connection with SPU.
Third, concerning homeschooling and government. There is one issue of particular concern for homeschoolers that is more divisive in some towns than others but which is present all across the state. This has to do with parent partnering programs offered by the public school districts. When the schools use the term "homeschooling" in reference to their parent partner programs, it causes many difficulties and divisions among homeschoolers because this public school option is not part of the homeschooling law. Will you join us in prayer that their use of the term "homeschooling" will cease and that the disunity will be resolved in the homeschooling community across our state? Pray for the families and support groups that have struggled because of these programs. Pray that agape love from Christians will extend across the divisions and break down the antagonism.
Last, while our legislators are in session, continue faithfully to do First Timothy 2:1-4. Thanks.
How can you be a part of the ministry of WATCH?
We're glad you asked!
#1) Please pray regularly for this ministry:
wisdom, provision, grace for the work, volunteers.
#2) Consider becoming a member. Click here for more
information.
#3) Ask the Lord if He would have you share in the work of this
ministry through a special financial donation or through a
donation of your time as a volunteer.
The WATCH Board is thankful for the opportunity to serve YOU!
Fox Valley, WI
Informational Meeting
8/14/2008 at 6:30pm
Chiliwack, BC
Registration Day
Monday, August 25th, 2008 Starting at 10.00am
Sandpoint, ID
Registration Day
Friday, August 15, 9:00 a.m
Johnson City, TN
InformationMeeting
Aug 14 th 7:00 PM
Frederick, MD
Annual Co-op Kick Off Picnic!
Sunday, August 31, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
We grow through your giving.
Every gift you make to FCHM helps us plant homeschool co-ops around the world.
Thank you for supporting the ministry of FCHM.
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine
It's back! Our $25 for 25 Spring promo is in full bloom.
Subscribe now to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and receive over $550 in BONUS gifts. We sold out of our Winter promo. Subscribe NOW before the gifts are gone, again! From preschool to college, we have it all - let us deliver it to your mailbox.
Members of First Class, you can get an even BETTER deal. You can save $5 just by using the coupon code FC+GIFTS.
Order Today!
Hello, Homeschoolers!
Have you been to your state homeschool conference yet this year? Jay and I have been busy speaking to homeschoolers all over the country this summer ... and every time we do, we come away with a renewed sense of purpose as we minister to these wonderful families. We think homeschool families are amazing. It's just one reason why we're so passionate about getting folks plugged into to local support through First Class.
Homeschooling families need support and encouragement. Period. I remember my first couple of years as a homeschool mom. I wanted to read every article, talk to every seasoned homeschool mom who would listen and buy every "how-to" book out there. If there was a "Homeschooling for Dummies" book out then, I would have been the first one to buy it. (Of course, my relatives would have really started talking after they saw that on my coffee table, so it's probably better that it wasn't a book back then.) But you know what I mean, right? The pressure I felt to be the perfect homeschool mom was enormous.
My first homeschool conference was overwhelming, too. Mostly because I chose to go to a CURRICULUM CONVENTION rather than a homeschool conference. So many math programs! So many different ways to teach your preschooler colors! So many ways to teach your child to read! So many books, and only three days in which to see every single one of them! I came home with a box of books that I wasn't sure exactly what to do with, and more questions than I started out with. Has that ever happened to you?
Jay and Heidi St. John will celebrate 19 years of marriage soon, and are the homeschooling parents of six children who range in age from sixteen to two. Heidi speaks to mothers with humor and grace on many subjects dealing with homeschooling. If you are interested in having the St. Johns speak at your event, please contact them through FCHM.
14th Annual WATCH Homeschool Conference
This year's Washington State, statewide conference is going to be something you will NOT want to miss! Hosted on the beautiful campus of Seattle Pacific University, the 14th Annual WATCH Homeschool Conference & Family Retreat is filled with dynamic speakers, like David Quine, Dr. Tom Hoyle and Terry Small; a teen program with Bill Jack of Worldview Academy; a children's program with Children's Conferences International; special guests, Paul & Gena Suarez of The Old Schoolhouse; a large and wonderful exhibit hall; informal dorm talks with our featured speakers at night; and a chance for you to spend quality time with other homeschooling families.
Jay & Heidi St. John will be speaking at WATCH! If you haven't met the St. John's, it is an opportunity to take a workshop from them. You will see first hand the heart of the couple behind First Class Homeschool Ministries!
We asked Jessie about 20 questions... and here are her responses.
Jessie is an open and honest friend sharing her heart from a Navy wife's perspective.
Thanks Jessie!
Why did you begin homeschooling? We asked God if we could; He said yes!
Why do you homeschool today? God has blessed us and entrusted us with His children. To know Him, to love Him and see Him in this world is a blessing. We have a rare opportunity to take our kids by the hand and seek Him with them. Homeschooling is a chance to truly try and do better each day. It is just what we do, and part of who we are. And for now, because we can!!!
How do you homeschool? With lots of prayer and on a tight schedule!
What is your biggest homeschool challenge? Time management.
Before First Class, where did you find homeschooling support?We were involved in a group called MHEN (Military Home Educator Network) on Oahu.
How long have you been involved in First Class? 18 months.
What has First Class done for your family? Encourage, love, strengthen, challenge and support. First Class has been like a big hug to our homeschooling endeavors and blessing in every way.
Jessie Haan and her husband Nick live in Mount Vernon, WA - and anywhere else the Navy sends them!They have been homeschooling their four children, Timothy 11, Kristen 9, Abbie 6 and Leah 4, for five years.They are members of First Class Skagit County, in Mt. Vernon, WA.
The Value of Homeschool Conventions
Part 1 of 2
By Amelia Harper and Deborah Wuehler
If you are like most of us, you are probably just a tad discouraged about now. You are in the thick of homeschooling. Lessons are a little behind schedule, especially after the holidays. The curriculum you chose just isn't working out the way you hoped. Somewhere down the line, the organizational charts have disappeared and you suspect that the dog ate them. Your kids have started to ask questions that you can't answer, and you may feel very, very alone. Boarding school is starting to look like an attractive option.
Cheer up! Homeschool convention season is just around the corner!
Homeschool conventions are a great place to learn what went wrong and to share the excitement of what went right during your homeschooling year. You can learn how to get better organized, find new answers to puzzling problems, grow encouraged, and do what homeschooling moms love to do most-shop for new school materials!
Deborah Wuehler is the chief contributing writer for Chapel, and Devotional Door e-Newsletter creator. She resides in Roseville, California, with her husband Richard and their six gifts from heaven. She loves digging for buried treasure in the Word, reading,
Good News: California Home-Schoolers Applaud Decision
by Devon Williams, associate editor
Monday, July 14, 2008 Focus on the Family Action/Citizenlink.com
Family-court action could convince appellate court not to interfere with home schooling freedoms in California.
A California family-court judge has dismissed the case that led a higher court to call for a statewide ban on most forms of home schooling.
Home-school advocates are hopeful the decision will influence the 2nd District Court of Appeals, which ruled Feb. 28 that California parents without teaching credentials cannot home-school their children.
Bruce Hausknecht, judicial analyst for Focus on the Family Action, said the family-court ruling is a victory for home-schoolers.
News, events and Information as it pertains to Homeschool Families in Washington State. Please note, posted information has not specifically been reviewed or is endorsed by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine or the volunteer blog coordinator. Please review posted information carefully to determine its suitability for your family. God bless your homeschooling journey.
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Working on the Homeschool Assembly Line By: Steve Lambert - FCHM Board of Directors
August, 2009
If our goal is to be like the Apostle Paul's... and "finish the course with JOY" then we must know where the source of true joy is found. It is found in Christ alone, and it grows as we commit to following Jesus through every circumstance. 
Power of a Praying Mom 
At other times, I am called to meet with other women and pray for the needs of our children, homeschool co-ops and families. What a blessing it has been to be used by God in prayer, and hear how the Lord answers the prayers of His people. Prayer draws me closer with other homeschool moms; as we lift one another to the Lord. Prayer closes the gap of distance between homeschool families. I have been so encouraged as I have prayed for women across the United States and Canada. The Lord has used many of them to uplift me as I have prayed for their needs. I come away with renewed strength, hope, and power for the days ahead.
Years ago, I remember reading about a woman swimmer who had the ludicrous idea of swimming across a very large body of water. She prepared for years for the incredible event, training everyday for the big swim.
#1) Washington Homeschool Organization announces the next 
Space Needle would like to invite all homeschoolers to check out the SkySchool program and SkyQ technology. Special rates available on these 2 days. Click 
Gwen is my dear, cherished friend from my days as a single missionary in Poland. We committed to becoming Jonathon and David friends when we were single women living in a Communist country. Gwen always wanted to get married as she is the picture of a supportive, loyal friend who creates an incredible artistic and lovley home environment. She spent 28 years as a missionary working in Eastern Europe serving, loving and making so many feel the love of God as she served them through her apartment. During her time there, her two brothers, her father and all the relatives close to her, except for her mother, died. Now, after living in Vienna, Warsaw, and Krakow, and traveling the world and meeting with all sorts of interesting people on a daily basis, she has moved back home. Gwen lives in a small coal mining town in Kentucky in the 60 year old home in which she grew up. She is daily caring for her mom who has Alzheimer's, and has been doing so for the past 4 years. When her sweet mom, who is 92 this fall, passes to be with the Lord, Gwen will have no more relatives alive from her immediate family.
Jessie is an open and honest friend sharing her heart from a Navy wife's perspective.
The Value of Homeschool Conventions
Good News: California Home-Schoolers Applaud Decision
