Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free copy of Exploramania's Exploracise GyMathics so my kids could try, and I could tell you what we think.  This is a very unique 30 minute exercise DVD that not only teaches kids to exercise, but endeavors to teach them math facts (geared to 2nd through 5th graders) at the same time. 

What are the pros of this product?  It gets the kids up and moving, and they might even pick up some math facts in the process!  The video features kids of all ages, and looks fairly well done.  It's not a huge Hollywood production, but looks on par with most exercise videos I've seen.

What's not to like?  Some kids might not the whole idea of excercising to a video, doing math, or both.  If your kid has a bad attitude, well, this won't necessarily cure it. LOL  (But, hey, it might!) 

The Crazy Mom take:  I had my two youngest, Bear 8, and Baber 6, do this, as I thought they would probably enjoy it most.  I was right.  They wanted to do it over again, and they did!  I don't know if they really picked up on the math aspect of it, but, hey, it kept them active, yet relatively quiet, for quite a while.   It sure was better than having them sit in front of the TV on their backsides. 

I have to say, it didn't do much for me, but hey, I'm an old woman, and I know all the math already.  And I'm lazy!  LOL  I do think it's a unique concept, that's for sure.  I'm not really sure my kids will get much out of it, even if they do it over and over, but it sure can't hurt.  If nothing else, they'll get some exercise, so I think I'll keep it handy and encourage them to watch it as often as they want to.  Well, after they do their chores and school!  (Of course, by the time that's all done, I'm ready to head off to hide in the Ozarks!)

God bless you, and thanks for reading!           

What's the bottom line? $24.99 with FREE shipping! (For a limited time only.)

I am going to give GyMathics 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.exploramania.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/745118/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog?
Check out my welcome post at
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

Well, it's that time of year again.  It's the 2009 Homeschool Blog Awards!

I've had the honor of being nominated for

Best Nitty Gritt Blog.

You can vote for me  

HERE!!!

Did you miss that?

If so,

YOU CAN VOTE FOR ME

HERE!!!

So, why do I qualify for Best Nitty Gritty?

Why do I NOT?  LOL

To qualify, you have to be honest about your mistakes, your failures, your shortcomings...

What else IS there?  LOL

Mistakes, failures, and shortcomings are all I've got! 

I am probably the most unorganized, undomesticated, crazy, lazy, and air-headed homeschool mom out there. 

I dare you be be less competant that I am!

I double dog dare ya!

But if you're feeling that way, like you just aren't doin' in, like you're in a hole you can't dig out of, like you just wanna quit, you've come to the right place.

THE CRAZY HOUSE!!!

Read about my life and you can honestly say, "Well, at least I'm not as bad as her!

I realize that I probably write more reviews than anything else, but I even get nitty gritty in those.  Nitty gritty is what I am.

Sad.  Yet true.

So, hey, you can vote for me

HERE!!!

What are you still reading for?  Go vote!!!

~The Crazy Mom

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received the game Life on the Farm from We R Fun, Inc.  The game was invented by an American farm family, and they used real life farm experiences to create the game! 

To play the game, you try to grow your herd without losing all your money.  It's a classic style board game where you throw the dice, move your pawn around the board, and do whatever you're told to do on the space you land on.  It might tell you to lose a turn, choose an Income or Expense card, cross a bridge, or any number of "farmy" things. 

What are the pros of this product?  It's an interesting way to teach kids who think milk and beef come from styrofoam containers about where they really come from. 

Another great plus is that the game is not cheaply made.  Even the box is sturdy.  (Have you EVER had a box that didn't have to be taped?  I mean really.  I always thought I could get rich if I could design a box that actually held up after playing more than a dozen times.)  I can't say this box will last forever, but it seems to me to be sturdier than what I'm used to. 

There are two ways to play the game, a long version and a short one.  You could even create your own version for an even shorter game.  (It tends to go long.)

What's not to like? See that last sentence in parenthesis?  It can go a bit long.  Think Monopoly, not Connect Four.  Other than that, I don't see any issues. 

The Crazy Mom take:  The game arrived right as we were in the middle of the swine flu.  It sat here for awhile and the kids begged to play.  I know what they're like, though, and I was so busy tending to sick kids, being sick myself, and trying to keep things up around here that I kept putting them off.  Finally, I decided to just let them play, as long as I was in the room with them and supervised them putting it away.  (We have a really hard time keeping games together around here.  You probably guessed that, though, didn't you?)

Well, anyway, they had a grand old time.  The next day I was enlisted to play too.  Now, I have to admit, I'm an ADD kinda gal.  Long games do not excite me.  I tend to like short games, like, say, oh, tic tac toe.  But I did find the whole idea of the game interesting.  It does really teach about life on a farm.  Cows get loose, crops get damaged, farm hands must be paid, etc.  I like anything that keeps my kids quiet and happy for any legth of time.  Especially when it does not include staring at a monitor. 

I would recommend this game if your kids like board games.  Maybe they'll stay busy just long enough for you to sit down with a cup of Earl Grey tea and some dark chocolate, and take a well deserved break!  Of course with all those cows, maybe it'll have to be milk chocolate! 

What's the bottom line? $25

I am going to give Life on the Farm 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.werfun.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/740257/  

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free membership to the "Members Only" section of the AVKO website.

What is AVKO?  AVKO is a non-profit organization started by a man named Don McCabe that specializes in teaching dyslexics how to read, write, spell and type using a multi-sensory approach.  The letters in AVKO stand for Audio, Visual, Kinesthetic, and Oral.  Though developed for dyslexics, AVKO's materials can be used with anyone. 

There are two levels to the AVKO memberships, Basic and Deluxe.  Both memberships give you a 25% discount on all printed AVKO materials.  On top of the discount, there are loads of benefits, and rather than reinvent the wheel, I decided to copy them from the website.  (Yikes!  Cheating again!  LOL)

Benefits of AVKO Basic Membership

• Discounts on AVKO printed materials
• Hundreds of dollars worth of FREE e-books (PDF)
  • The Patterns of English Spelling (All 10 Volumes) with Word Families in Sentence Context
  • To Teach a Dyslexic
  • Starting at Square One
  • The Teaching of Reading & Spelling: a Continuum from Kindergarten through College.
  • The Reading Teacher's List of Over 5,500 Basic Spelling Words
• Access to the Member Only section
• AVKO Newsletter with freebies, discounts, resources, and promotions
• Access to Don McCabe's most popular workshop recordings in MP3 format.
• Supplemental Curriculum Materials including word games, worksheets, activities, and more!
• Access to Pretests and Placement Tests
• Access to the Answer Keys for the Unscramblers and Family Reunion exercises of the Engaging Language Kits

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

"If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be." 

 ~Thomas Jefferson

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free CD from The American Heritage Education Foundation.   This time you can get this resource FREE too!!!

This one CD contains lessons for elementary, middle school, and high school students.  (The elementary lessons also come in Spanish.) The lessons focus on the foundations of our country.  (Well, I mean "our" country if you're an American; you could be British, Indian, Russian, or even a hysterically funny Canadian!) 

Here's a bit of the philosophy of the good folks at the American Heritage Education Foundation:

“Freedom, Unity, Progress, and Responsibility are ideals that are rapidly declining or disappearing in their [our children’s] teaching and learning not only in our K-12 public and private schools but also in our colleges and universities of higher education. A nation built on these ideas and theories cannot possibly survive if those same philosophical and historical principles are not studied, taught, learned, practiced, and reinforced in our schools and institutions attended by the next generation of young people.”

What are the pros of this product?  I like it because it does not seem to rewrite history as so many texts today do.  It's well organized, and the pdf format makes it easy to make copies of the activities for the kids. 

It's not from a socialist perspective!  (Yeah, I'm just a tad miffed at the direction our country is going.  No, scratch that, I am totally outraged!  We NEED to know our history and what FREEDOM is all about!!!)

What's not to like? It is a secular resource, so the Christian influence of the founders is not highlighted as it might be from a Christian source.  I still found it to be quite fair. 

The Crazy Mom take:  You know, I'm pretty sure I ordered one of these disks several years back, got it, put it somewhere, and never even looked at it.  Thankfully, the crew keeps me a bit more on top of things!  LOL

My first thought when I heard about the resource was that it was put out by a conservative political group.   I suppose I was thinking of the Heritage Foundation.  I was surprised when I saw it was developed and provided by the Houston Independant School District, (in cooperation with the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation and The American Heritage Education Foundation, Inc.)  Seeing that whole school district thing pretty much dashed my hopes that it would be a pro-American, patriotic type of resource.  Well, I was pleasantly surprised!

I have to say, while the material is not distinctly Christian, it is not of the liberal, strip our nation's history of any Christian influence, point of view.  It is quite balanced.  I was especially pleased when I read the section in the high school lessons about "the seperation of church and state."  It made it clear that the phrase has been twisted in recent years to mean something it was never intended to mean.  There is also a section of the CD which informs students of their religious rights when in school.  Kudos for that!

Right now we are not really doing American History in our school (and we've also been dealing with swine flu and a basement backup which meant there was poop some pretty awful stuff floating around in brown puddles all over the floor) so I did not get a chance to use this with my kids.  I do think I will, however, in the years to come,because the other history we use is quite light and needs some meat.  This CD definitely a lot more meaty.  I especially like all the info about the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.  We did do American History last year and now I wish I'd have taken the time to look at the CD when I got it the first time!  Oh, well, live and learn!  LOL 

What's the bottom line? Free!!!  (A $150 value!!!)  You can also get binders of the printed for $19.50 per level.

I am going to give America's Heritage:  An Adventure in Liberty out of 4 our of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://americanheritage.org/index.html

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/739239/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

Hi!

Perhaps you are traveling out there in the blogosphere checking out nominees for best this or that and have stumbled across my blog. Maybe you found me at a carnival or blog party.  Maybe you Googled one of the products I've reviewed.  Whatever the reason, I thought it was time for a little timely update about just what this Ramblings from the Crazy House blog is all about!

My name is The Crazy Mom, and I am married to Sane Man, and we have eight wonderful, but hopelessly normal, kids.  Normal in that they do all the things normal kids do.  They fight, disobey, refuse to change their socks, leave their wet Pull Ups on the ground to be stepped on, sneeze all over their dinner, etc.  We also have a dog who loves to sneak downstairs and poop in the basement.  We are so far from the perfect model of the perfect homeschool family that it just ain't funny.  Mosty, I guess, this is because

I'm a very far from perfect homeschool mom.

Now, one day it occured to me, as I was pondering my failures, that I couldn't be the ONLY one out there who wasn't raising a brood of perfectly groomed, perfectly well-behaved children, who wake up at 5:00 in the morning to sing hymns, milk the goats, and get the homemade bread dough prepared for the day.  I couldn't be the only one whose kids weren't totally excited about sentence diagramming, or long division, or cleaning their rooms.  I couldn't be the only one whose kids don't study nuclear physics or do advanced calculus at age three.  There had to be other moms who, at the end of the day, crawled into bed thinking wistfully, tomorrow will be better...

So I decided to let it all hang out and put myself out there to be an example of the crazy and imperfect Mom.  Cause you know what?  We are out there.  We are out there on the farms, we are out there in the suburbs, and we are out there in the city.   We've got rambuncious kids, dirty houses and a to do list that we can never seem to finish.  We are just gettin' by and doing the best we can, and do you know what?  Our kids are doing just fine! 

So, I thought I'd share my crazy life with you so you will be able to look at it and say, if she can do it, I can do it.  And even though my family is so far from perfect it just ain't funny, we do have some funny moments, and I will gladly share them with you!

To get a taste of what this is all about, check out a few of my blog entries.  Wake Up!, Testing, Testing 1-2-3, Driving Miss Crazy, That's Why They Call Me The Crazy Mom, and Searching for Buried Treasure are a few of my favorites. 

You might notice that there are also lots of reviews and stuff as part of my blog.  That's 'cause I am part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, and I get stuff to use and blog about.  So even if you are not a fellow Crazy Mom, you might want to stop by some time to learn about some great homeschool products.  Either way, you are always welcome!  Stop by any time!  I love to say that, because I don't have to clean!!!

Update!!!  Soon I'll be posting reviews about books from Christian publishing companies.  I'm doing reviews for Thomas Nelson, Bethany House, Crossways and more.   I'm trying to branch out a bit.  You'll even see a review for UHU glue! 

You never know what you'll find here on my blog.  Again, stop by any time.  If I've baked cookies, I won't even have to share them with you.  Yeah, like I have time to bake cookies!  LOL 

Have a great day!  You can do it!  Yes you can!!!

~The Crazy Mom

New to my blog?
Check out my welcome post at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

http://www.5minutesformom.com/10606/christmas-giveaway-2009/

I just entered to win the COMPLETE Veggie Tales collection!!!

~Crazy Mom

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

So after all this time, I finally start the ball rolling to get my second and third oldest their braces.  Ren is 16, and Mr. Personality (Mr.P.) is 15, and I want them to be done with them before they graduate from high school.

So I take them to two places.  First Dr. L.'s, and then Dr. B.'s.  When we went to Dr. L.'s I decided I really like the guy.  He's friendly, laid back, and just seems like an all around good guy.  I'd even heard rumors that he once treated a family with eight kids, all of whom needed braces, and he did the last one free.  So I decide, I'll go with this guy, but I have to at least go see the other dude.

So, guess what?  I like the second guy too!  But he actually makes a little dig at a certain, uh, person in high office, during the conversation.  I personally feel this certain person in high office wants to make this a socialist country, so I think, Hmmm...this is my kinda guy!

But Dr. Anti-socialist costs a bit more.  Well, what did you expect?  He's obviously a money-grubbing capitalist!  So, I tell them, "Well, I think your fee is a bit higher."  He tells me he'll match the other doc's quote, and his secretary says she'll write it all up and mail it out to me the next week so I can have it all in writing and make my final decision.

So I wait and check the mail all the next week.  Nothing.  I e-mail and call.  Nothing.  Well, I start to wonder, maybe I should just go with Dr. L.  I mean, he must be a capitalist too.  He's a rich doctor!  Right?  But, no, I decided to give Dr. B. just one last chance.  I call one more time and tell myself that his office has until Monday evening to get me those papers.  Monday morning I get a call from the other doc.  When do we want to come in?  I don't answer, but wonder if I should.  I still don't have those papers.

Well, Monday the mail comes and they are here!  OK.  Dr. B., the anti-socialist wins!  So I give 'em a call and set up the appointments.  In the meantime I get two, yes two, letters from Dr. L.'s office.  The last letter says that if they don't hear from me, they'll assume we are not coming in.  I am relieved.  The one thing I hate is to disappoint someone, or not choose someone.  I did NOT want to actually TELL them I'd chosen someone else.  I felt guilty.  Must be all those years of being picked last in gym class. 

Not long after it dawns on me that I scheduled them on a Monday.  I did that because Ren takes college classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  What I wasn't thinking about is the fact that First Born would not be home on a Monday to watch the other five kids.  So I call and change Ren's appointment to a Friday.  Mr. P. says he is anxious to get his braces on, and could he please keep his Monday appointment.  Well, with Ren home, that would be doable, so now they each have an appointment.

But on the Sunday before the Monday appointment, Mr. P gets sick.  I mean he's coughing.  Coughing and getting braces on don't mix so I call their machine Sunday night and cancel.  The next day I decided to call and get him a new appointment.  Hopefully with Ren on the Friday so I can just take them both at once.

So I look for the folder with the number on it.  I had left it downstairs.  I decide to simply look it up online.  So I Google it and call the number.  I explain that Mr. P. is sick and I had to cancel his appointment to get his braces on.  I ask if he can come in with Ren on Friday.  She has no record of Ren's appointment, so we start from scratch.  We take about ten minutes trying to find a time they can go in when my other son is home.  It is a real pain.  I wonder to myself if I had picked the wrong orthodontist after all.  I mean, being an anti-socialist is great and all, but I need an office with convenient appointments.  Finally we figure out a way to do it, but it involves getting in and out really quick because First Born has to work.  And they tell me they don't normally DO Friday appointment.  That's weird, but oh, well.  I really wish they did, though, because that's the day First Born is home all day, and Ren doesn't have school.  And another weird thing.  They aren't getting their braces on.  They are coming in for records.  I could have sworn they were getting braces on.  Oh, well.  I hang up and sigh.  This is going to be a pain.

Wait.

Did I?

Oh, please tell me I didn't!

What number did I just call?

I called Dr. L.'s office?

I was supposed to be calling Dr. B.'s office!

Aw, man!

So, I briefly consider crawling under a rock, or at the very least putting off canceling.  But, no, I needed to just do it.  So I call back Dr. L.'s and sheepishly explain that I needed to cancel the appointments because I had called the wrong office.  So, yes, I had to admit, I didn't pick them.  And I was so glad they had stopped calling and sending letters.

So I call Dr. B.'s to make the appointment.  For getting braces.  On a Friday.  Easy peasy.  So I was right, I DID pick the right orthodontist after all.  Anti-socialist, and convenient hours.  What more can a girl ask for?

~Crazy Mom

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received free three products from Bright Ideas Press. I received The Mystery of History Volume 3 – The Renaissance, Reformation, and Growth of Nations (1455 – 1707) student reader.  This is a very nice hardback version of the book!  Unlike in past versions, Volume 3 only contains the 38 lessons in the text.  The supplemental materials are contained in a paperback or digital version that is purchased separately.  I also received the supplement, The Mystery of History Volume 3 Companion Guide: Curriculum and Student Activities.  Mine came on a CD-ROM.  Included are audio CDs, coloring pages, art craft packs, timeline figures, historical atlases, Biblical atlases, current world atlases, and outline maps. 

The Mystery of History series is unique in that it's written for students of all ages, from a distinctly Christian perspective.  The Mystery of History III textbook can be used on its own, or with the supplemental material.  Also, you don't have to have already gone through the first two Mystery of History volumes to use it.  The book stands alone. 

If you are of a classical bent, you will want the supplemental material, as it's structured to follow a classical approach.  It's all about the trivium.  That's all I'm gonna say about that, because I'm not into the whole classical thing, and I would be out of my element (or above my pay grade) to try to explain it.  We mostly read the texts anyways.  

I also received Christian Kids Explore Physics.  This is book is geared towards grades 4-8 and includes 30 lessons in 6 units.  There are hands-on activities, vocabulary words, coloring pages, scripture tie-ins, and more.  Learn about matter and energy from a Christian perspective!  

This is a workbook, though the copyright allows you to make copies of the activity sheets for your own family, co-op, or classroom.  Or if you prefer, you can download the activity sheets right from the Bright Ideas website.

What are the pros of this product?  Both of the books I received are well done, professional looking products written from a Christian perspective.  I enjoy that the writing style is conversational and keeps things interesting. The Mystery of History is beautiful.  It's actually very classy looking, if you can say that about a textbook.  LOL 

The physics book is great; it makes physics seem way less intimidating than it seemed to me way back in the day.  I like that some of the answer options are a bit humorous.  For example, who came up with the Theory of Relativity?  Was it Albert Einstein, Issac Newton, or Mr. Rogers?  The experiments are also often fun.  Who wouldn't want to drop marshmallows into a bowl?  Especially if you get to eat them when the experiment is over!

What's not to like?  Can't think of any.  Obviously, I like these products!  :)

The Crazy Mom take:  This was an easy review because we have been using products from Bright Ideas Press for years.  My oldest three have already read the first two volumes of The Mystery of History as their junior high history text.  I don't end up having them answer questions or do projects, though.  I just have them read.  It's all I can do.  I am only one woman here!  (My oldest son scored best in the social studies section of our state's standardized test, so that says something!)

My oldest daughter will be reading all three volumes in order, now that the third one it out.  (And we own it!)  I really love it, though, that we got a hard copy of The Mystery of History Volume III.  We are hard on books around here, and my other two soft cover volumes show it.  Even though my oldest daughter isn't ready to read the whole third volume yet, I had her read Week 1, so she could get a taste of what it's like.  I read the first several weeks, too.

We have also used both Christian Kids Explore Biology and Christian Kids Explore Chemistry.  These are simple to use, even for me, and they are just meaty enough for my younger kids, though I admit, I still learn when we go through them.  The Physics book is just as excellent as the others.  My daughter is going through this book for me too.  Though we already do science in co-op, I think I'll have her keep working through this one as we can squeeze it in.  I will probably buy more copies for the younger kids in the years to come.  We have thoroughly enjoyed using these books in our homeschool.

What's the bottom line? Mystery of History Volume III $59.95/The Mystery of History Volume 3 Companion Guide: Curriculum and Student Activities $29.95*/Christian Kids Explore Physics $34.95/Activity Book Download $12.95

*There are also bundles available for more savings.  See the website for details. 

I am going to give Bright Ideas Press 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://brightideaspress.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/724592/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received free access to the ACT Advantage DISCOVER Program. 

Just what is the DISCOVER program and what does it do?  Here's a bit of info I lifted off the website.  (Yes, I've been sick, so I cheated.  So sue me. LOL)

DISCOVER is jam packed with career tips and uses a proven developmental guidance process to help students:

• Assess interests, abilities and job values.
• Explore occupations, majors and schools.
• Build an education plan that relates to career plans.
• Improve job-seeking skills and develop a resume.

Basically, you begin by taking surveys right on the computer.  It couldn't be easier.  Taking these surveys will give you an idea as to what careers "fit" your interests, abilities, and values.  Once you pick a couple of careers to explore, you can then find about more about them, and then create a plan to pursue the career.  Find out what classes, major, and schools are right for you!

What are the pros of this product?  This is an excellent tool for students who have no clue as to what career they might want to explore or who need help narrowing down their interests to one or two options.  It's relatively easy to use for the computer savvy and, as a bonus, the Discover program also includes up-to-date information about financial aid and scholarships.     

What's not to like?  I was just a tad mystified as to where to start when I first signed in.  After looking at it, though, I was able to get a pretty good handle on it rather quickly. 

It might not be a great asset for someone who has already pretty much decided on what "to be," but it still can help with things like school planning, scholarship searches, etc.  Most of the information given, from what I can see, is probably out there already for free.  Is having all the info in one place worth it?  That's up to YOU to decide.  I'm not your mother after all! 

The Crazy Mom take:  With all the insanity that is life around here lately, I gave up on trying to get any of my kids to carve out enough time in their busy days to take the assessment.  So I did it myself!  I have lots of interests, so what should I be when I grow up?  LOL 

Well, I found out that I am best when I am working with people and ideas.  Who knew?  LOL  Well, actually, I did.  I am most definitely a people person, and I always say I do much better with things I can "do in my head."  Hands on stuff is better left for more handy folks like my husband Sane Man.  Tying here at my keyboard is about as hands on as it gets!  LOL

Now, do I think this is a worthwhile program?  I'm not so sure.  The thing is, all five of my oldest children have pretty much settled on a career.  First Born has wanted to be a doctor since he was five, Renaissance Man is born to be a computer programmer, Mr. Personality is destined for law and politics, Woggit is going to be the next Tom Monaghan, and Princess wants to be a dental hygienist.  These kids have always known what they want to be when they grow up and they have never wavered. 

I, on the other hand, could have used something like this. I considered so many fields.  I wanted to be a probation officer, actress, lawyer, psychologist, missionary (maybe somewhere nice like Hawaii), radio producer, writer and more. Well, then again, maybe I didn't need something like this as I never actually ended up having a career.  At least I don't think being a blogging homeschool mom is a career option as far as DISCOVER goes!  LOL

Anyway, if your child has no clue as to what career path to follow, something like this might be a good idea.  I mean, it's not that expensive, and if it means he or she won't take 90 credit hours at the community college (when only up to 60 count), like I did, it will be worth far more than what you pay for it!

What's the bottom line?  $19.95 for a three-month license, $24.95 for a six-month license.

I am going to give the ACT Discover Career Planning Program 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.actadvantage.org/discover/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/738900/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free membership to ABC Teach.  ABC Teach is basically a website that provides printable worksheets to teachers.  There are actually two "tiers" to the website.  The first tier is free to anyone and there are over 5000 worksheets available to print out in just about every subject you can think of.  The second tier is the membership.  If 5000 worksheets isn't enough for you, how about over 35,000?  Now that's a lot of worksheets!  LOL

With ABC Teach you can find a worksheet for just about anything.  Whether you're looking for math worksheets, holiday related worksheets, "going green" worksheets, or whatever, they probably have it.  Maybe you love cats, so much so that you raise them and even host a cat website. Just for fun, I searched cats, and came up with a ton of hits.  Twenty-eight to be exact, and that's just the free ones.  If you are a member, there are 115 more!

Most of the worksheets on ABC Teach are for the younger set, but there are worksheets for middle schoolers too.  More worksheets are added every week.  Are you the independant type who would much rather make your own?  No problemo!  Just use the handy worksheet generator to make your own word searches, crossword puzzles, handwriting pages, and more. 

What are the pros of this product?  Well, if you and your kids love worksheets, it's the place to go!  There really are a ton of worksheets available.  Hmmm...  Now that has me thinking, if you printed out all 35,000 would it really weigh a ton?  Depends on the paper you use, I guess! 

What's not to like? Well, of course there is the cost.  If you are frugal, it might not be worth paying the annual fee.  However, there is plenty available for free, so print away! 

Also, I did find the website a little overwhelming.  There is just so much.  You know me, though, (if you are a regular reader, and I hope you are,) I am mystified by anything with too many bells and whistles.  I prefer Aldi to Walmart and broadcast TV to cable.  I like buffets though, hmmm...

One more thing.  This is not, from what I can tell, a Christian website.  It's a sight for all teachers, so it is geared more for public school teachers.  Not necessarily a negative thing, but you will find that most of the worksheets are from a secular perspective.  Just call it a heads up. 

The Crazy Mom take:  I am going to start out by being quite frank.  I don't do a whole lot of worksheets in my school.  I have never really had the need for them.  By the time we do our chores, we pretty much only have time for the basics.  With co-op this year, and all of our other extras like the library and sewing class, we have even less time than ever for anything other than our basic math and grammer.  Add to that our TOS review products and we are beyond busy here.

What does all that mean?  Well, as I have said in other reviews, I was not in the market for this type of service.  To do the review, I mostly just clicked around the site and checked it out.  I did have one occasion where I wanted a particular type of worksheet for a book report my son was doing for co-op.  I didn't find exactly what I wanted, but I did find something close that served the purpose.  The reality, though, is that I could have created my own worksheet on my word processor in less time than it took me to find the one on ABC Teach.  Not being someone who uses worksheets, I don't think I'd buy a membership.  I doubt I will even use any of the free worksheets.

So, do I go so far as to NOT recommend it?  No, because if you use a lot of worksheets you will probably LOVE this site!  The fact is, as a child I loved worksheets.  I just don't have enough hours in the day to use them enough in my own school to justify the cost.  Truth is, I tend to get worksheets from other places like the library that have been sitting around my house for years untouched. 

Sometimes it's difficult to review a product when I am not in the market for it, or it doesn't fit my teaching style.  I really have to just stand back and look at it from a fresh perspective.  When I was 7 months pregnant Sane Man brought home a Corvette from work.  A cool car, indeed, but I totally hated it.  I could barely lift my round self out of that thing.  Sane Man, being over six feet tall, hurt himself twice getting in and out of it.  We have eight children.  I would not buy a Corvette, but that does not mean that there aren't a whole slew of folks who have or would love to have one.  If I reviewed a Corvette, I could not say that I loved it, but I also couldn't say YOU shouldn't buy one. 

So, take ABC Teach for a test drive and make up your own mind.  The 5000 free worksheets should give you a pretty good idea of what it's all about, and you can make your decision from there. Don't forget to take your cat!

What's the bottom line? $40 per year/$70 for two years/See the website for group rates.

I am going to give ABC Teach 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://abcteach.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718688/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this service.

 I doubt this service would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good service, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product or service because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free subscription to My Access! Home Edition from Vantage Learning.  This is a really neat program that is set up so you can give your child writing assignments they do right on the My Access website.  The child checks his or her assignments, writes an essay, and then submits it to be scored.  The program actually scores the essay instantly!  It's really cool! 

Another feature of the program is that your child is not on his or her own.  The program guides students through each step of the writing process from pre-writing to the finished product.  Along the way, help is given in the form of spelling and grammar help.  Not only that, as they continue to work, they earn points.  When they reach the goal you set for them, they are rewarded by whatever you deem an appropriate reward. 

One of the best features of the program is that while it's computer generated, it allows parents total control over what the child does.  Parents assign the essays from a list, or they can create their own topic.  E-mails are sent out so that parents can monitor their child's progress, though they can check on their child any time by accessing the master account.  It's like having a teacher's aide built right into your computer!

What are the pros of this product?  Children can work independently and the program helps them every step of the way so you can get your laundry done and dinner on the table!  The rewards are also great for kids who need some sort of motivation to do anything.  (Not that I have any of those!  LOL) 

I also like that the while the computer does pretty much all the correcting, the parents still are running the show.  The program also generates progress charts, so if you need something to "prove" that the child has been "doing school" for your records, you have it. 

What's not to like? Well, it's not cheap.  Cost is always one of the biggest factors for me when considering a purchase.  Also, because it's Internet based, your child will need to be able to access a computer frequently enough to make the subscription price worthwhile.  It's a great program, but if you can't get to it, it's of little value.  (The nice thing, though, is that it is not a download, so you can access it from any computer with Internet.)

Also, I have to admit that the program is not perfect when assessing the essays.  It would still be a good idea for you to sit down with the child and go over their work to make sure they are getting everything right.  If you've ever used the grammar check that comes with Windows, you know that sometimes it catches your mistakes, and sometimes it doesn't.  Sometimes it even falsely accuses you of making a mistake when you haven't!  Well!  LOL  The same thing goes here.  It's not perfect, nor would I expect it to be, but I would not want to give you the wrong impression of the program.  Yes, it's like an assistant teacher, but you are still the teacher.  :) 

The Crazy Mom take:  I found this program to be very cool.  I decided to let Princess use it as she likes to write, but she does not do a great job in the technical sense.  She tends to write run on sentences, and doesn't always follow the rules of grammar.  Our biggest issue here was finding computer time.  With two boys in college, one with a ton of work from co-op, Sane Man's class from church, my reviews, and on and on, the computers tend to be tied up.  Plus, our laptop was out of commission for a while.  It seemed like a nearly impossible task to etch out enough time for Princess to try this.  Still, we managed to squeeze in a bit of time.

I assigned several essays for Princess and she was happy to do them.  In fact, she did quite a few of them.  The first was quite long, and the others quite short.  She did score much higher on the longer one, so I suspect that length is one of the requirements for a high score.  I did notice, though, that her essays all contained a ton of errors.  Even though the longer essay was scored as Proficient, I would not have graded her that way.  Of course, at her age, I think they give a lot more grace for poor punctuation and spelling.

Princess did use the helps, but I think she could have used them more.  I had decided to be totally hands off so that I could get a good idea how independently she could work.  I soon realized that, even though it is set up for a child to work independently, I would probably sit down with her for several essays if I had it to do all over again.  I am the teacher after all!

I do have to say, though, that Princess really loved the program.  She really liked it that she got points and that's what motivated her to keep writing.  She enjoyed getting a grade, even when it wasn't good, so she just kept writing away.  In some ways, I guess, that wasn't a good thing as she was a bit too anxious to finish and turn it in.  She tended to want to start a new essay rather than revamp the old one.  I guess that's my issue to deal with and not the computers. :)

All in all, I think it is a neat program.  For kids who have lots of access to a computer and love to earn rewards, I think this is great.  I do think it best if Mom or Dad or maybe an older sibling sits down with your child until he or she is very comfortable with the program, but once they learn all the bells and whistles, I think it could be a great asset to your homeschool writing class!

Have a blessed day! 

What's the bottom line? $99.95 for up to 3 students for one year, or $129.95 for up to 6students for one year.

I am going to My Access! 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.vantagelearning.com/home/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/721291/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the products:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received some wonderful products from Virginia Soaps and Scents.  I got some soaps, a shampoo bar, and even a kit to make my own laundry soap! 

Virginia Soaps and Scents started out as a homeschool project from a unit study of colonial times.  Beware of small beginnings!  The Spargur family had so much fun making these soaps, they decided to make a business out of it.  They also sell lotions, lip balm, pet shampoo and more!

What are the pros of this product?  These are lovely, handmade products from a large family who runs the business out of their home.  Everything is just lovely.  Did I already say that?  I can't help myself!  I really love this stuff!  Can you tell?

What's not to like? There might be some ingredients in these products that some folks are allergic to.  For example, I have a friend whose daughter is allergic to soy, so she can't use anything with soy in it.  Some of the products from Virginia soaps and scents do contain soy. 

I'm sure there are other folks who have other medical issues which I am just plain not educated enough to address, so I won't even pretend to.  I do know, for me, I had no problems with any of the products and I do have soap issues.  I can't use antibacterial soap because I break out from it every single time.  These soaps I can use.  :)  Yeah!

The Crazy Mom take:  Ah, man, how much time to I have?  I love everything, but the shampoo bar has worked miracles for me!!!  I cannot say how thrilled I am with it.  It is the best thing ever for my hair.  I mean ever!  I am in love!  (No, I'm not gonna marry it!  LOL)  But seriously, I don't have "good hair."  It's not curly and not straight and just seems to frizz up and look bad unless I spend a ton of time blow-drying, curling, spraying, ratting, and whatever else to it.  Then it looks good for a while and starts to frizz again. 

No more!

I was totally amazed that my hair looked great right after I washed it!  All I had to do was blow it dry.  I didn't even have to style it!  Normally it starts to look good the day after I wash it, once a little of my natural oils tame it down a bit.  Then, on the third day it starts to get oily and I have to wash it again.  Well, I figured since it looked so great the first day, it would be oily the next.  It wasn't!  It looked great again!  Even the third day it looked good!  I was amazed.  Did I say that already?  AMAZED!!!

Another thing is that I no longer need conditioner.  And it is so much fuller.  It almost feels like I have gel or mousse in it, but I don't.  I don't know how to explain it, but it is just great.

I can't say you'll have the same experience as you don't have my hair.  I can just say that for me, this stuff is worth its weight in gold.  I love it!

I used to wear a pony tail about 99.9% of the time because dealing with my hair was just too much work, and it never even looked that good.  Now I am a proud to say, I am a recovering ponytail addict.  I'm happy, happy, happy!!!

Did I mention it was AMAZING??? 

I do like just about everything I review, but I am giddy about this one!  Could you tell?  And their other products are great too!  I highly recommend this company! 

Have a blessed day!

What's the bottom line?  Soap $4.50 per bar/Shampoo $5.50 per bar/Laundry kits $4.95  These prices are for single items, discounts are available for larger purchases. 

I am going to give  Virginia Soaps and Scents 5 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out!http://www.virginiasoapsandscents.com or http://www.va-soaps.com   

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/735619/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

Okay, so I do reviews for the TOS Homeschool Crew, which I LOVE!  This year is even cooler than last year because we are getting a lot of stuff that isn't even exclusively for homeschooers.  One of the things I'll be reviewing is a cookbook (or if I'm really lucky, cookbooks) from Sue Gregg. 

So Sue sends us a letter and tells us to go to her website and try some recipes.  I decide to go with pancakes as we already had a dinner menu planned for several weeks, plus I thought the kids might be more open to my experiement than Sane Man.

I decided to go with unground whole wheat.  I don't know what that even is.  I mean,  I do, but I don't.  In other words, I'm not sure I've ever seen wheat before it's been ground into flour, but I know it exists.  Somewhere.  I've only used whole wheat flour a few times, so this was foreign to me.

So I go to the store and get what I think its unground whole wheat.  My kids got excited when they saw it, thinking it was bird seed!  "No," I said, "I'm making pancakes with it."  Hmmm...  I don't think they liked that idea.  The crazy thing is that when I looked at the package it said it was ground.  What do I know?  I can tell you that it was not flour, however ground it might be.  I decided that was close enough.

So I got some other stuff, like buttermilk.  Not sure I've ever bought buttermilk either.  I am way over my head here.  I prefer the kind of pancakes you buy frozen in a box, just like I buy my waffles.  (Now, my kids actually will make pancakes with a mix.  Just add water!)

So I go home and am totally excited about making something healthful.  (Grammar note:  Healthy food means your food isn't sick.  Healthful means it's good for you.)

So I get my printed out recipe and decide that with my big family I need to triple it.  I am doing some two step thing which requires me to put in some of the ingredients in the blender to sit overnight.  Something to do with breaking things down to allow for easier digestion.  (Read:  Less gas!)  I put the stuff aside and go to bed totally excited about my healthful breakfast plans.

Wow!  I get up to find that my ingredients have E X P A N D E D !  The blender is just about full.  So I turn it on.  It's making lots of noise, but I don't see any movement.  So I just keep running it.  No movement.  A strange smell.  I just keep running it.  No movement.  No SOUND either.  Oops!  I just fried my blender.

Well, I'm committed at this point.  Not to mention, I've spent a lot of money on this already.  So I try to spoon some of the "batter" into a tiny food processor.  Well, it makes sounds and I see some movement, but it just wasn't cutting it.  Still, I keep doing it and then go ahead and try to make the "pancakes." 

Well, I attempt to pour the thick goop into the pan.  It is so think that it seems to take forever to cook.  Finally I think it is done.  The "bird seed" is still fully visible and my kids are less than enthusiastic.  I encourage them to drown them in syrup to make it edible and they indulge me, but I don't think any of them got past the first bite.  The dog, on the other hand, loved them!  LOL

Oh, what a typical moment in a typical Crazy Mom day.  I just seem to be quite inept at all things domestic.  Now, Sue Gregg is like the opposite of me.  She is together.  None of this is her fault, and I want to be absolutely clear when I tell you that.  She did tell me that she burnt up a few blenders in her day, though, so that made me feel MUCH better.  Seems tripling the recipe in a cheapo blender was not a wise idea.  Also I had failed to read that I was supposed to BLEND the ingredients together at night, BEFORE setting it aside.  You see, Sue Gregg writes up her recipes a little differently than most cookbooks, and I DID NOT READ THROUGH THE WHOLE RECIPE BEFORE STARTING.  Oops.  So, that is my true confession.  My bad.

So, I went back to the store and decided to go with oats and brown rice to make the recipe.  (Yes, the recipe is written so that you can use several different grains.)  Oh, and I went out and bought a new blender.     THIS TIME I read the recipe through, and followed it to a T.  I didn't so much as double the recipe.  Funny thing.  It worked.  Now, I'm not saying all my kids loved them.  Some did and some didn't. 

Now, I am a much wiser woman.  (Still crazy, fear not.)  I think I will have to play with the recipe a bit more and maybe use a bit of white flour with the wheat, oats, or brown rice to start and gradually reduce the amount until we can go fully healthful. 

So, with that sucess under my belt I decided to try Sue Gregg's parmeasan chicken.  Now, THAT I made and EVERYONE liked it.  So, I am not a TOTAL failure after all.  Over the next few weeks, I'll be checking out some more stuff from the website to try.  I think I am actually gonna LIKE cooking more healthful foods.  First sewing, now this.  This is gonna be the year that I finally become a real homemaker!  LOL

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here.

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free Amazing Bible Timeline for the purposes of this review.

The Amazing Bible Timeline is exactly what is sounds like.  A Bible timeline.  It is filled with information as you can plainly see from the picture above.  Honestly, beyond that I have a hard time describing it, so I am going to cheat this time around and just highlight some info off of the website. 

Here's just a sample from the website of what's on this outline:

• See Bible and World History together - Solomon and the Greek poet Homer lived at the same time
• Keep key people and events in order  - Esther lived just after Daniel
• Learn from the overlap  -Noah's son Shem lived until Abraham was 150 years old    
• Track the timing of Bible and World history - 6000 years of history at a glance
• Watch the Sons of Noah spreading across the world - the rise and fall of nations
  

Along with the purchase of the Amazing Bible Timeline, customers also receive access to free Interactive Maps of the Holy Land (these are available via download).  Additional bonuses include: Genealogy of Jesus Christ in two formats (in .pdf form for printing), and a .pdf file of the Amazing Bible Timeline (to be used on your computer).

What are the pros of this product?  This timeline is very detailed and it makes it easy to see how different events in history happened at the same time.  If you're adept at reading this type of timeline that is! 

What's not to like?  The first thing I noticed right away is that the print is very small, so it's a bit hard to read.  Also, the timeline itself is very large.  You'll need a lot of wallspace or a large table to use this.  (Of course I can't complain too much about both the font and the size.  If you increase the font, you increase the size and vice versa.  Still, it's something to consider before buying.) 

A more critical issue, however, is that there are some references that appear to come from Morman sources which may cause concern for some Christians.  And, honestly, I have no clue as to the validity of the information given.  There is even a disclaimer on the timeline itself that says that they cannot be sure of the dates.  Yes, that is true of a lot of historical references.  The problem is that I don't know where they got the information from to determine what they thought was the best source.  Not being a history expert, I am always a little leary of this type of information, but I normally at least have a clue where the folks who publish the info are coming from.  In this case I don't really know.  Are they conservative?  Liberal?  Protestant?  Catholic?  Morman?  Vegan?  Left-handed? Steelers fans?  Chai tea addicts?  Or what?  I really don't know.  (OK, I'm being a bit silly here, but I do think it's always good to know your sources!)

The Crazy Mom take:  To be honest, I have never been a timeline person.  I mean, I enjoy checking them out once in a while, and I totally see the value in them, but I have never really used them in my homeschool.  I probably should, but I don't.  I bought one years ago, probably over a dozen years ago, and it still sits untouched.  Somewhere.

Also, I have limited space and really don't have room for something this size.  Plus, I have to admit to feeling a bit uncomfortable with the Morman references.  I will keep it around, and might even put it up on the wall at some point, but I doubt it will be used very often.  Since we've had it, we haven't really had a reason to look anything up, but that doesn't mean we won't in the future.  I guess the best way to put it is that I was not in the market for such a product, and would not be inclined to buy it based on what I've seen had I not recieved it free. 

And, of course, being the Crazy Mom, just looking at it made my head spin.  Here I go again, beating the same old drum, but I am a very simple-minded kinda gal.  This timeline was just too "busy" for me.  I was like, Wow, this is overwhelming.  I was simply not inspired to try to figure it all out, as it was just too much information for me.  The way it is laid out, in the circular pattern, probably has something to do with it.  I am so totally a linear person.  If you are not, well, it might work great for you.  But I need things in an easy sequential order.  (It's why I can follow bowling and baseball, but not football or basketball.  Too much going on at once on the field is more than I can keep focused on.  Hmmm...maybe that's why having eight kids running in eight direction is confusing, huh?  LOL)

All that being said, there really has been a lot of work put into this and it could be a great reference tool for someone who loves timelines and/or history.  It really is rather cool to see how interrelated things are in history.  This is one of those times I have to step outside myself and look at it as though I were someone in the market for such a product.  Would I buy it?  Hmmm... a definate maybe!  LOL  Sorry, folks, but this is one of those products where you will really have to do the homework and check it out yourself.  :)

What's the bottom line? $29.97

I am going to give 2 and 1/2 smileys!!! .5 

(This is the second time I have given this rating.  I was inclined to give it only two smileys, yet there is enough value in it that I think you should at least consider it.  However, I would not be able to, in all fairness, give it 3 smileys as it does not, in my opinion, measure up to the other products that fall into the "good product, but isn't right for everyone" category.) 

Check it out! http://bibletimeline.net/index2.html

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/726414/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a complimentary copy of Sue Patrick's Workbox System User's Guide.  I was given the e-book so that I could read it and share with you my take on it.  Workboxes have been totally hot among homeschoolers lately, and I was anxious to crawl out from under my rock and figure out what all the fuss was about.  After reading the book, I decided that I would not be able to implement the system in my home at this time.  (Not that I don't find it intriguing; I'll explain more under "The Crazy Mom Take.") However, I can give you my take on the book itself.  Before doing that, however, let me give you a peek of what what's inside. 

Here is a list of the book's chapters:

• The Benefits of Homeschooling
• How We Teach and Train
• What is the Workbox System
• Who is this System For?
• How a Day Works
• Curriculum and Materials
• Breaking Down Curriculum for Success
• Life Skill Foundations
• Discipline and the Workbox System
• Problem Solving and Specializing Your Child's Education
• Family Dynamics and Homeschooling
• Tips, Tricks, and Problem Solving

Sue's system is quite simple actually.  It uses clear plastic shoe boxes organized on a rack.  The materials for each subject are placed in a shoebox and the boxes are done in order.  You can check out a video to see more about how it works here. (Just a head's up, there's no audio.  I thought I was having a problem with my volume!) The e-book explains how it all works in detail, as well as explaining why it works.

Sue developed the workbox system when her son was diagnosed with autism.  She found it helped him stay on task.  She currently uses it with both her son and her daughter.  As she tweaked it over the years, she began sharing it with others and the rest, as they say, is history.

There is a lot more to the book than just an explanation of the system.  She shares a lot of ideas for what can go in the workboxes, and gives some fun ideas for "centers" you can set up to create an interesting learning environment.  Sue shares a lot of her homeschooling philosophy too.  She even shares about how great running has been for her family!   

What are the pros of this product?  Not having used the system I can't really give you my opinion on the pros of using workboxes.  However, I can tell you that the book gives a very good detailed explanation of how the system works as well as lots of additional information.

What's not to like? Sue is very passionate about her homeschooling philosophies and her system.  For those of us who live to tweak things to fit out own needs, she might come across as rather rigid.  No big deal to me, but others might find her too unbending.  I say, if you read the book and like the basics of the system, tweak away, and I won't tell! :)

The Crazy Mom take:  Here we go again.  Crazy Mom here lamenting about my lack of organizational skills.  If I don't do things in some sort of order, I literally become disoriented.  I actually LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, the idea of the workbox system.  It is SEQUENTIAL.  I love sequential.  I thrive on sequential.  It took me over 40 years to figure it out, but, yes, I am a totally sequential kinda gal.

So why didn't I set up the system in my own house?  Lots of reasons, really, most of them personal.  We spent the first several weeks sick.  We started a new co-op.  I already had a system set up for the year.  The biggest reason, though, is that we're ten people living in less than 1000 square feet.  I would have to do a total reorganization of my house to find a place to put the workboxes, and I just didn't think I could do it in six weeks.  Plus there is just the cost of the boxes themselves.  I have seven kids that I still homeschool here.  If each kid had, say, ten workboxes, that would be seventy.  Even at $1.00 each, that's seventy bucks.  Plus, to do it right, I'd need seven racks and seven large "totes."  We're now talking some serious cash.

All that being said, I still like a lot about the system.  The sequential part, mostly!  LOL  We actually do things sequentially anyway.  I make lists and the kids must do what's on the list, and in order.  I throw stuff in the middle of the list like do ten jumping jacks, or yell "Yoda", or run around the block.  I try to mix it up and have fun.  For me it totally works, but I admit, my kids might like the boxes better.  I learn by reading, but I do have some visual kids.  

I really would love to try this.  I have been thinking that maybe I'll try it with just one of my kids next year.  It was just too much to think about at the time I got the e-book.  I'm sure I'd have to tweak it some.  I don't have a space where the kids do school.  We just use the dining room table or they sit at the couch with TV tables.  We tend to be very relaxed and informal.  I like it that way, but we could use more structure.  Sue has her kids "clocking in and out" and we have never been anything like that.  I'm not sure I'd want to be so structured, but I wouldn't mind moving in her direction a bit.

Well, here all I did was read the book and haven't even used the system, and I've just about written my own book here!  LOL  I guess I should just let you check out the website yourself so you can make up your mind.  At this point all you need to decide is whether or not you want to buy the book.  If you do buy the book and decided to set up a workbox system, I'd love to hear how it goes! 

What's the bottom line? $19.99 e-book or paperback (Also, although you don't need to buy your materials from Sue, she does make them available on her website.  She also offers consultation services.  See her site for complete details and pricing information.) 

I am going to give Sue Patrick's Workbox System User's Guide 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out!  http://www.workboxsystem.com

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/726706/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

Greetings Readers!

As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I was offered the opportunity to review a product from Educaching.  It's a curriculum that incorporates GPS technology into the classroom.  Of course, I would need a GPS to do this, wouldn't I?  I thought I had GPS on my phone.  Well, I did.  On my old phone (that I lost.) And even that wasn't really GPS, or at least it wasn't the kind of  GPS they were looking for.

So, of course, being me, I felt guilty that I had to bow out of the review.  To assuage my guilt, I offered to at least tell you about Educaching so you could check it out yourself.

Here's a bit about what it includes from their Facebook page. 

• Teacher Training section with "How To's" on using GPS with your students

• 20 detailed Lesson Plans integrating math, science, language arts, social studies, technology, and physical education

• Reproducible worksheets coinciding with each lesson plan

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

The other day I went out to Aldi's with my four youngest kids, Princess, Dodeman, Bear, and Baber.  I decided that I'd take a bunch of the bags I had collected over time and leave them on the packing counter for others to use.  I had lost my debit card (again) so all I had was $50 and Aldi only takes debit or cash, so I had to limit myself as to what I could buy.

I went through the store only getting what I needed to make dinner, cheesey potatoes for our family picnic, the stuff for yummy berry smoothies, and a few other essential.  I told the kids "no" about a million times, and kept saying, "I only have some cash; I can't just buy whatever I want!"

So I get to the register and let the guy know not to let it go over $50.  I had lined up my items from most to least important.  The total went up and up, until it stopped at $48.10.  I was amazed at how close I'd come to $50 without really trying.  Then I realized the kids had put the margarine on the bottom rack of the cart.  I had $1.90 and it was $1.79 so I had 11¢ to my credit.  I was feeling pretty good.

Then a lady and I struck up a conversation somehow about the bags I'd brought in.  I told her how I had actually been storing them in a kitchen cabinet which then necessitated keeping several pans in my oven.  She laughed with me and told me I was not the only one.  She tended to have bag collections too.

The lady had something about her.  Sure, there are lots of nice people, but some are just joyful.  Even a casual conversation about bags seemed to take on something special.  There was just something about this lady.  Then she mentioned the four children, and they proceeded to tell her that they only comprised half of the kids. She smiled wide and said something about how great it was we had children in the family and then asked where the other four were.  This is where I, in my weakness, start to feel a little bit uncomfortable.  I mean, the kids were at church preparing for a day of witnessing for life at a large public event.  I mean, I didn't know what this lady's thoughts were on abortion, and I just didn't want to get into anything if she happened not to agree with me.

But kids aren't like that.  Dode man let her know they were going to be carrying signs that said ABORTION IS MEAN.  She smiled and raised her eyebrows.  Then she told me her story.  You see, she is 75, but when her mom was pregnant for her, her father wanted her mom to get an abortion.  As she told the story, there were no tears or hints of anger or resentment.  She just smiled that joyful smile and told us how glad and blessed she was to be here!  Then she proceeded to tell my kids how her grandmother had taught her to pray.  She said it was just simple prayers, like "Help me, God!" or "Thank you Jesus!"  But she let them know that prayer was very important and that they should always pray.

I walked out of the store feeling good.  I had just enough money to pay for the food, and I'd met a wonderful lady who obviously knew something about the joy of the Lord.  I was feeling the joy, too!

Then I got my groceries in the car, put the key in the ignition and...nothing.

I called Sane Man, who got there 40 minutes later and got us home. 

********************************************************************************

Now, while all this was going on, one of my sons, Mr. Personality, was actually at a Christian camp.  The week before he told us he really wanted to go.  Sane Man told him there was no way we could afford the $225 fee, but that we could put his birthday money towards it and his grandparents' birthday money towards it, but the rest he'd have to pay himself.  I suggested he go around the neighborhood and look for some work.  Sane Man told him the best thing to do first, though, would be to go up to his room and pray about it.  He could ask God to help him earn the money if He wanted him to go.

So, the next day he went out into the neighborhood and came back with about $50.  Most of the money people just gave him.  He just has a certain charm about him, and after taking to him a few minutes, most people were glad to hand him over some cash.  He went out again the next few days, did some more work, and collected some more donations.  Some folks even game him pop botles.  About $35 worth total! 

It seemed like the whole neighborhood just came together to send this kid to camp!  He had asked one of the neighbors for work and was turned away, but the next day the same guy pulled up next to him and handed him a twenty out the window!  Another guy had told him to come by on Friday, but that he could only give him five dollars as he was laid off.  Friday came and he told Mr. Personality that he must be "bad" luck, as he got his job back.  He then handed him ten bucks!  Later Sane Man was sitting in the living room when some stranger came to the door looking for Mr. Personality, but he was out in the neighborhood looking for more work.  The guy left and went looking for Mr. Personality, found him, and handed him some more cash.  Mr. Personality didn't recognise him, so he asked how he knew he was collecting money for camp.  The man answered that his brother had told him!  Yes, that's right, it was like everybody and their brother was giving him money!  (He wants to go into politics, so we told him he now has experience being a "community organizer!"  LOL)

It was the day before camp and he had all but eight of the full $225 that he needed.  I was telling my mom and sister in an e-mail, and my sister told me to put her down for ten!  So now he actually was $2 over!  As he was leaving I loaned him a twenty so he would have some spare cash on him.  While he was gone the next-door neighbor came over and gave us $20 that he was giving him for cutting his grass.  So he earned and collected everything he needed and had $22 to take with him.  He would not even have to relinquish his birthday gifts!

He came back today and said he had a great time at camp, but his wallet had been stolen.

*****************************************************************************

Does it just seem that life is like that sometimes?  Just when you're really starting to believe that God really loves you, something happens to make you start to doubt it all over again?  I know it can be like that for me.  But my mom has a saying, "God is in Control."  He knows everything about everything and He has a way of making things work out for good.  Somehow we have to grasp the truth that God loves us when things are good, and when things are bad.  He loves us when we get a new job, have a new baby, and fall in love.  He still loves us when we get laid off, our child dies, or our spouse cheats.  No matter how we feel, He is in control and He loves us more than we'll ever know.

Who knows?  Maybe my husband's life was spared because he avoided an accident by coming home early to rescue us.  Or maybe it was me who was spared?  Or even someone else?  Who knows?  And the wallet?  We found it in Mr. Personality's dirty laundry.  Well, I know Who knows.  God knows.  He is in control.  We might see life as a series of blessing and curses, but when God is in control, it's all good.

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free copy of Sarah's Wish from Sarah Books.   It was sent to me so that I could read it (or listen to it) and share it with my kids in order to give you my highly anticipated opinion as to whether or not it is a good read and should be purchased by (or better yet for) YOU!  :)

The story starts when Sarah's mother is killed, leaving 12 year old Sarah alone.  Sarah decides that it is her mission to continue the work her mother had done, working with the Underground Railroad.  Besides Sarah, you'll meet lots of interesting characters, including the lovable Granny, between the pages of this book.  You'll also find yourself transported back into time to the 19th century, to the days where men and women were enslaved by cruel masters, and courageous men and women, and sometimes children, helped them find freedom. 

Sarah's life is filled with hope and promises, sadness and disappointment.  As the story unfolds, she makes a wish.  Will her wish come true?  Read Sarah's Wish and find out!

Sarah's Wish is only one of three books currently being sold in the Sarah series.  Also look for Sarah's Promise and the latest book, Sarah's Escape.  Read excerpts from all three books here.  Each book is also available as an audio download.

Meet the author, Jim Baumgardner, here.  Jim actually wrote the Sarah books for his own grandchildren, who just happened to be homeschooled.  He wanted them to learn to love history, and to learn about the Underground Railroad.  He knew that historical fiction was the way to teach them, while also entertaining them.  Jim loves history, and he loves story-telling, and his writing shows it!

What are the pros of this product?  The book is really well written, and though fictional, is very educational.  Kids will learn a lot about the heroic folks who ran the Underground Railroad, and the equally heroic slaves who "road" the Railroad north to freedom.  In other words, they'll be learning, and won't even know it!  :)

What's not to like?  Nothing, really, but some kids might not like the way the story starts out with Sarah's mom dying.  My youngest son, Baber, 6, did not want to listen.  The older kids, ages 8 and up, were fine with it.  (Not sure if I like that or not!  LOL) 

The Crazy Mom take:

I have always been fascinated with stories of the Underground Railroad ever since I first heard about them and thought runaway slaves actually escaped on trains!  LOL  One of my biggest childhood heroes was Harriet Tubman.  I always wondered, would I be brave enough to help slaves escape?  I hope the answer would be yes!

There are two periods of history I really want my kids to know about.  The Holocaust, and the time of American slavery.  These things must never happen again, and I believe each child must know about them.  Yes, they are horrible subjects, and it would be easy just to try to just forget about them and try to act as though they never happened, but they did.  You know the saying:  Those who don't know history are doomed to repeat it.  (Okay, that's probably not the exact quote, but you know what I'm talking about!)

Anyway, I was thrilled to have an easy way to teach my children about the Underground Railroad.  My daughter, Bear, took the book first and started to read it.  Then promptly lost it!  No worries, in the back of the book is a code to get a FREE audio version, so they were able to listen to the story instead.  As I stated above, they all enjoyed listening to it, and I'll have to consider purchasing the other two books for Christmas! 

Happy reading! 

What's the bottom line? $10.99 Retail However, at the author's website the price is $9.99 plus Free shipping and handling.  Jim will even autograph it for you!!!

I am going to give Sarah's Books 5 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! Sarah Books 

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/726402/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog? Check out my welcome post at  http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

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Just how does Crazy Mom get any school done in the Crazy House?

I've probably never made a school schedule I've actually kept to the letter.  We just aren't that organized or efficient around here.  For years I would make these wonderful lists, and then would fail to check everything off, feeling totally defeated by the day's end. 

So I gave up.

Now what I do is "Priority Scheduling."  Think about it.  I have eight kids who are taking anywhere from two subjects to eight subjects.   That's forty or fifty subjects to cover in one day.  Like that's even possible!  Trying to do it all was just setting me up for failure.  So this is how I do it now.

When I get up I think to myself, what does each child really need to do today?   If they are lagging in math, I have them do math first, if they are lagging in spelling, I have them do spelling.  I don't worry about them doing everything, I just make sure they are doing what they really need to work on.  Then I list the other subjects in order of importance.  They simply do the subject in order, finishing what they can.  (And here's a dirty little secret, once in a while we start out by cleaning up!)

Of course, there are other factors that also come into play when I make up our daily schedule.  We do a lot of contests.  Sometimes we will just take a day or two, or even a week, to work on the current contest.  It seems to work, because my kids often win!  Sure they have an advantage that they can work hours and hours on it.  Well, guess what?  That's one reason we homeschool.  I like to be flexible and we can adjust out schedule as we see fit.   The ability to spend more time on things that are important is a great advantage.  I'm not going to feel guilty because other kids are sitting in school all day doing busy work. 

This year has been different because we are all testing out new homeschool products for the TOS Crew.  I do have to schedule time to use these products so that I can honestly review them.  We have tried about fifty new things, so you know everyday just has to be a little different.  I don't think we could have done this if we were the rigid schedule types.  It's been fun and I'm glad I had the opportunity to do it this year!  I am thrilled to say that I am staying on another year, so here we go again!  LOL

So, it's not like I don't make schedules.  I do.  Every day.   But I don't make my kids do everything everyday and just about every day is different.   I admit, sometimes I feel guilty that they are not doing everything they'd be doing in public school.  Then again, they are not doing everything they'd be doing in public school.  Know what I mean?

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received several free e-books from Guardian Angels Publishing so that I might look them over, read them to my kiddos, and give you my humble opinion about them. :) 

Here's a bit of info about the company from their website:

GAP staff is composed of dedicated professionals who wish to create a safe and fun environment for children to learn and grow with our eBooks and print books.  You will discover our musical artists, award winning photojournalists, artists and talented authors have pioneered to create this new dynamic form of eBooks and print books. 

GAP eBook downloads, eBooks on CDs, full color Print books 8.5x8.5 inches, and book video DVDs  are based on the fundamental concept of using art, music and special activities to captivate the preschool and primary child's attention in order to instill a Christian and healthy attitude of learning, sharing and caring.

Here are the books I received!

Hamster Holidays: Noun and Adjective Adventures of The Pet Grammar Parade Series
This book makes learning nouns and adjectives fun as your child follows a silly group of hampsters as they celebrate their very own holidays every month of the year.  Activity pages are included too!  There are scrambled words, match-ups, crossword puzzles and more!

No Bones About It: The Sum of Our Parts Series
A fun little book that helps your child learn all about our wonderful skeletal system.  Silly pictures and fun rhymes help make learning the names of bones fun!  Cool factoids add interest, for a short, fun, but very educational book.
 

Gifts from God
 Beautiful photographs of children and nature grace the pages of this book.    Simple sentences for your beginning reader tell of the gifts God has given us.  Scripture is used throughout to reinforce the message.

Rainbow Sheep (a national award winner 2009 Eppie)Genevieve tells funny stories to a sad, pale rainbow to make him bright and happy again.  His tears of joy turn the sheep all the colors of the rainbow!  Beautiful and unique fiber art illustrations, plus instructions for fiber activities for kids!

Stubby's Destiny (a national award winner Best of 2008 award for literary excellence )Stubby is a donkey who wants to be important, and maybe one day carry a king on his back.  It doesn't help that his horse friend, Sly, insists that he must be regal like him to have a Divine Destiny.  When he is called on by the Kings of Kings to carry Him on his back, he realized he has had a Divine Destiny all along.

What are the pros of these products?  From what I've seen, these are nice little books.  There is such a wide variety to choose from; I'm sure there is something for everyone. 

What's not to like?  To be honest, I don't like the e-versions just because they are just not the same as a "real" book.  I read them off my computer because there was no way I was going to use all that ink to print them out.   That's just me, but I would prefer a hard copy.  Not a true negative, I suppose, as the books are available as both digital and good old paper and ink versions. 

Another small possible negative for small children would be the fact that some of the pictures in No Bones About It might be a bit scary.  You might want to check it out before you buy. Also, there is a picture of a young girl wearing a two-piece bathing suit in Gifts from God, and reference to ghosts and monsters in Hamster Holidays.  Just a heads up if your family avoids these things.

The Crazy Mom take:

I enjoyed reading these books to my kids, even though I had to read from my lap top.  I'm sure had I gotten hard copies, I would have read them much sooner and more often!  My little guy appreciated them the most.  Well, he wasn't thrilled with the Bones book, as he said it was not a story!  LOL  My older kids, enjoyed it, though.  Especially the factoids:)  I admit, I like it too!  Can't say I can tell you the names of all the bones, but it was still fun to read.  The pics were a little goofy, but I guess I can excuse that.  They are cartoony, but realistic enough that you can still learn from them. 

I actually liked the illustrations for the Rainbow Sheep the best.  The fiber art is really cool!  I am going to have to do that with the kids some time.  As for the story line, I probably enjoyed Stubby's Destiny the most.  I feel a lot like Stubby myself sometime.  I am just hopeful that I really am serving the King as I haphazardly stumble through my crazy days!  (Or is that daze?)

Happy reading!  :)

What's the bottom line? Print version $10.95 plus $6.95 Shipping and Handling/E-book CD $9.95 plus $5.95 Shipping and Handling/E-book download $5.00

I am going to give Guardian Angel Publishing 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out!  http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718692/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received a free copy of Ten Minutes to Better Study Skills from Bonny Terry Learning.  

Bonnie Terry Learning is a company that offers books and games to help teach kids basic English and math skills.  While her products work with any child, they are designed to be especially helpful to kids with special needs or who learn differently.  I thought I'd share with you Bonnie Terry's philosophy of education, one I happen to agree with, by the way!

"Our philosophy is that all students can learn; they just need the tools and the encouragement to find their wings to reach their goals. And we have results to prove that this is true." 

Ten Minutes to Better Study Skills includes quick, practical 10-minute exercises designed to help students improve test scores, writing skills and more!

The spiral-bound workbook features reproducible activities and tips to help students:

•  Organize information
•  Take notes
•  Make comparisons
•  Write essays

Also includes:

• Reproducible planning calenders
• Test taking tips
• Research paper organizers
• Much, much, more!
  

According to the Bonnie Terry website, the study forms and tips that comprise Ten Minutes to Better Study Skills make the information we have read or acquired easy to utilize. This method of using these study forms and tips are supported by the National Reading Panel.

What are the pros of this product? There's a lot of handy material gathered into one convenient little book.

 What's not to like?  While I totally understand that smaller companies do not sell nearly the amount of materials that larger publishing houses do, and therefore can't sell at comparable prices, I still have to admit, the cost ($37) is a bit steep for me.  We are on a tight budget, plus, since I've been around the block a few times, I have most of this material already, and I would guess that most of it is probably available online. 

If you don't have financial limitations, however, you might just find it well worth the money.  It is nice to have all the information and forms in one convenient location.  Plus, it's always a good idea to support small businesses that support homeschoolers when you can.

The Crazy Mom take:  Like I stated above, I already have most of this material scattered about my house.  Somewhere.  Or, I could probably get most of it by simply Googling it.  However, because I am so disorganized, it is rather nice to have all the info in one place.  Plus, if  one of the kids is sitting at the table, or on the couch, and needs the info, he or she doesn't have to get up and kick someone off the computer.  (Yes, someone always seems to be on the computers.) 

I don't think I'd probably buy the book at the price for which it's being sold.   I only have so much money, and I have to really limit my spending to what is absolutely necessary.  If I were just starting out, though, and didn't have tons of curriculum for every single grade level piled up all over my house, I might consider it as it does have a lot of basic information in it. 

It would be a nice book for a child who goes to school to keep in a backpack for a handy reference guide.  It also would be great for a college student. The essay tips would be especially handy.  As for me, I have decided to keep mine right with the books we're using for our current school year so it will be right there handy when I want the info.  Like I said, I'm sure I have the same info elsewhere, but why spend the time searching for it? I mean, I need to free up my time to search for more important things, like, say, the remote, a pencil with a decent eraser, library books, DVDs, stray shoes, my keys, my sanity... 

What's the bottom line? $37

I am going to give out of 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.bonnieterrylearning.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/655956/?#c1312044

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

New to my blog? Check out my welcome post at http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/595801/

What do you mean good morning?

What’s so great about morning?  I mean, I know the Lord’s mercies are new every morning.  So, I have to agree that I need lots of mercy.   But do I really have to be awake to receive it?

I’m a night person; I am married to a night person.  My kids are night people, and my dog is a night dog.  We just don’t do mornings very well around here.  So we are always running behind from the second our feel hit the floor. 

For years I ran around here like a chicken with my head cut off trying to feed and dress kids, make sure they took their vitamins and brushed their teeth, did their chores, school, etc.  My head was always spinning.  Many times things just got forgotten or left undone.  Once I almost put a dress on my son.  I had to do something.

I decided to make a list!  Yeah, that’s right, a simple list.  Nothing new here, but it helps.  It’s still hectic around here, especially with eight kids and one bathroom, but now we at least almost always get everything done.  Actually, I only make the list for myself and for the five youngest.  The olders are on their own.  Sure, it still takes hours to get ourselves and the house in any kind of reasonable order, but even my dental hygienist noticed the difference.

So here’s the list broken down into sections.  First the Top 5.

Say you love God.  
Kiss and hug Mom
Get dressed
Put away pj’s
Make bed

I call these the “Top 5” because there are the things that have to be, or at least are supposed to be, done before anyone eats.  I have them say they love God in the hopes that they’ll remember that all they do during the day is to serve Him.  The next is easy, at least most of the time they are quite agreeable to kissing and hugging me, at least in the morning before I’ve made them do anything horrible like change their socks or empty the dishwasher.

After they kiss and hug me, they can hopefully find something clean to put on.  This may sound like a simple task, but try to find a matching pair of socks or some clean underwear around here!  Then all I want them to do is put their pj’s under the pillow and “gasp!” make their bed.

Eat
Clean up
Vite
Brush and floss
Face
Hair

Now they can eat!  I rarely make breakfast, horrible mom that I am.  They fend for themselves, and that’s OK with me.   Some eat cereal, some make eggs, some eat ramen noodles.  I normally eat leftovers.  Then they have to put their dishes away, take their vitamin, and then fight for the bathroom.  We tend to have at least three people in line for the bathroom at any given time.  Too bad it’s so small.  Still a small bathroom has it’s conveniences, you can sit on the toilet, wash your hands and wash your feet all at the same time.  Try not to be jealous. 

Now here’s how I impressed my dental hygienist.  For years I always was told to floss.  Yeah, right.  Like I have time for that.  Well, I still don’t, but it’s on the list.  So not only do I remember to floss, so do my kids.  Now when we go to the dentist we are their star patients.  My dental hygeniest  is so proud of me and my new list!  (Really, I think she just likes it that her job is a lot easier.)  Still, my dentist never lets me pick a toy from the treasure box.  Pity.  

Then the kids have to wash their face.  For me “face” means makeup.  I have this aversion to looking like a walking corpse, so I need to add a little color.   Then on to hair.  I tend to do the ponytail thing, despite the loud protestations of my mother, but I just can’t help it.  I don’t have the kind of hair you can just let go, so it’s either take time to style it or pull out the scrunchie.  The scrunchie wins almost every time.  The boys are usually buzzed so they can “X” that one off as a freebie.  I still get to do the girls’ hair most of the time.  There are only two girls, and I figure I’d better enjoy them while they are young.  So I try to relish the moments that I spend making their hair look pretty as I yank and tug the comb through the snarls, leaving it full of their pretty blonde hair, while they scream out in protest.  Nothing like making memories with the little ones. 

Devotions
Chore

Phew!  Getting to this point has probably taken about two hours on a good day.  By this time we are frazzled and already need to sit down and spend some time doing devotions.  So everyone grabs a Bible or Bible story book or just folds their hands and says a prayer.  My youngest prays with great fervor, for at least 30 seconds.  The rest of them do spend about ten minutes.  Then it’s on to chore time.  One empties the dishwasher, one fills it, one clears the couches and chairs, (I realize, most people can skip this step,) and one helps me clean the bathroom.   (Here's where I really am thankful for it's tiny size.)

Now, you have to realize that while all this sounds good on paper, it is hard to pull off in practice.  First, all the kids don’t get up at the same time.  Most of them have to be told to get up more than once.  There are kids eating breakfast while others are doing chores, kids doing devotions, while others are in the bathroom.  Sometimes a kid has to skip something temporarily , like say brushing his teeth, because someone else is in the bathroom. 

This here ain’t no well-oiled machine.  It couldn’t be well-oiled and be as LOUD as it is around here.  We have no carpet and we have leather furniture.  Every sound just bounces around here and echos.  My kids like to break out in song, tap dance, jump, yell, stomp up the stairs, make odd noises with their hands and mouths, and tap their pencils on the tables.  Eventually, though, it all gets done, or at least most of it does.  Then we have at least a few minutes left to do school before it’s time to start dinner!

So there you have.  I suppose there is a slim chance you could gleam something from this morning routine.  If not, at least you'll know that there is someone out there that has a crazier morning routine than you do!

Many blessings!

~Crazy Mom

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received College Prep Genius.  This is a program that helps high school (and even middle school) students study for the PSAT and SAT.  The creator of this program believes that if a student works through it diligently, he or she can earn a full ride scholarship to the university of his or her choice.  Not too shabby, eh? 

College Prep Genius was developed by a regular homeschooling mom named Jean who simply wanted to help her kids earn scholarships for college.  She studied the SAT and found out that it is not a test of knowledge, but a test that determines a student's ability to think logically.  She also noticed several recurring patterns and other things which made it simple to "crack the code" to getting a great score.  It must have worked, because both of her children were inundated with scholarship offers.  (Yeah, like her son got seven trash bags full of offers.  I would say inundated is an understatement!)

Now, I think this is one review where I am going to cheat just a little.  Normally I describe the product in my own words, but they have such a nice section on the website showing thier products, I thought, Why reinvent the wheel?

So here it is:

 

DVD set Now you can experience the entire College Prep Genius curriculum in the comfort of your own home! The complete "Master the SAT Class" lecture series is available on DVD. Taught in a methodical step-by-step manner, the entire set includes lecture DVD, College Prep Genius textbook and workbook.

College Prep Genius textbook The textbook that started it all! A revolutionary approach to preparing for standardized exams, College Prep Genius teaches the best ways for students to get ready for college and more importantly the SAT. CPG is the foundational curriculum to the "Master the SAT Class" and includes a checklist for finding college scholarships.

Class workbook The perfect complement to the College Prep Genius textbook, this essential set of practice SAT and PSAT problems seamlessly correlates with the strategies and tips of the CPG curriculum. The CPG Workbook is full of hundreds of original problems and covers every type of question found on standardized exams.

I suppose I will tell you just a little.  The DVD is more or less a slide show with audio.  There are four disks.  One is an overview and the other three cover the math, reading, and writing sections of the SAT.  The textbook more or less gives the same information that's on the DVDs, and the workbook provides sample questions for your child to work on. 

The program uses a lot of aconyms to help you memorize the many tips and tricks Jean has found that will give you that elusive score.  There are also some great ideas for writing a winning essay.  Add to that tips on applying for scholarships and you've got a nice little package to help make SAT prep pay off.  Literally. 

What are the pros of this product?  Well, obviously it will pay for itself over and over if your child really works through it and gets a scholarship.  This isn't something you go through once, though.  Don't expect to buy it the week before the test and then wait for Harvard to come knocking on your door.  It should be used months, or even years, before the test is taken. 

You can tell a lot of effort was put into the program. It really does a great job of covering just about every aspect of the SAT.  Lots of good tips are included in this program, and if you don't agree, send it back before 30 days for your money back. 

What's not to like?  Some kids might totally freak out at all the acronyms involved.  I admit, I always used things like acronyms when I took tests in school, and even I thought it looked intimidating.  My suggestion is to have your child take a practice test first and then see where his or her weak spots are.  Then have him or her start using the program in that area first, only memorizing the most important acronyms.  After acheiving success there, your child will be more motivated to learn the other acronyms.  Even if you totally disregard the whole acronym thing, there is enough other infomation in the program to make it worthwhile.  At least in my humble opinion!

The Crazy Mom take:  I just graduated my first earlier this year.  We have been there and done that with the ACT.  It's a different test, but much of the information from College Preg Genius applies.  First Born took it three times and scored higher each time.  In the end he got a pretty good score (actually, even his first score was good) and we both learned a lot about test taking.  I now have a whole lot more knowledge to pass on to my next son, Renaissance Man, who will be taking the test this school year.  While I already think I have a pretty good handle on it, I decided to let Ren check it out.

Since Ren is taking college courses, his time is limited so I only had him review the math and writing sections of the program.  He already scores very high in the reading section, so I figured that was the best use of his time.  I had him take a diagnotic test for the PSAT first and then had him use the math section of the program.  He did seem to show some improvement in the section right away.  He's also gone through the writing section, though he hasn't had the chance to retest it.  I'll find out more after he actually takes the PSAT in a few weeks.  By then he'll have had a little more time to work through it.  I sure wish we'd have reviewed this last year!

What really will help us are the tips for the writing section.  Thankfully, there is no writing section on the PSAT, so we don't have to worry about that until March when he takes the SAT.  This will give us plenty of time to help Ren gear up for the big essay.  It really is a very difficult task to write a concise, intelligent, well organized essay in a twenty minute time frame, even for good writers.  While Firstborn got an A+ in English 101 in college, he had a really hard time writing the essay the first two times around.  We finally spend a TON of time trying to figure out what they were really looking for and had him practice, practice, practice. 

The third time was the charm, and First Born scored quite well.  When I checked out the essay helps section of College Prep Genius I found that Jean had made the same discoveries we had, and plus few more.  Now I am confident that with what we have learned, together with the tips gleaned from college Prep Genius, we can help Ren earn a smokin' hot essay score.  (Not sure where that came from!  LOL)

So my take is that it is a very good program, though having been through it we have already figured out a lot of the tips she gives.  Still, there were a lot of things, especially in the math section, that made me think to myself, Duh, why didn't I notice that?  I'm sure Ren will score better having gone through it. 

So, if you have a college bound kid who is willing to do the work, I'd say check out College Prep Genius for yourself.  It could really pay off!

What's the bottom line?  Introductory Price $79 (30% off) Limited time only.

I am going to give out of 4 out 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.collegeprepgenius.com/ 

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/721345/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

 Check out my welcome post here. 

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew  I received two free issues of Nature Friend magazine.  They even included the study guides!  Nature Friend magazine is a professional-looking, full color, nature magazine for kids of all ages.  It's actually set up in a unique way so that every other month it is geared to a somewhat older child, but every month has something in it for all ages.  What's really cool is that one issue a year is filled with subscriber submissions!  It is also unique in that it is a Christian magazine and has a distinct Biblical perspective.  (Read no evolution/smevolution as I like to call it.)

Each issue has beautiful photos, games, stories, art lessons, and more.  Do the drawing lesson, send in your picture, and it might even be published in an upcoming issue!  Or maybe you you've created your own nature picture or poem.  They'll glady consider it for publication.  What a neat way to get kids excited about nature!  (I admit, I'm an indoors type, and I really need the help.  I'm afraid I am not exactly a walking nature encyclopedia.)

What are the pros of this product? From my perspective, the Biblical worldview presented is a HUGE plus.  We have always loved these kinds of mags.  Loved 'em for millions and billions of years! NOT! LOL  Seriously, it is so nice to have something this professional looking in my home that honors God!

Obviously the study guide (which you pay for separately) is a plus.  If you have the kind of kids who want to dig deeper into a subject, this would be a great way to do it. 

What's not to like?  This is one where I can't think of a negative.  Sorry!  Well, if you are not a Christian, the Biblical worldview would be a turnoff, obviously.  I suppose some might also think it a bit pricey.  However, when you break down the $36 annual subscription into 12 months, it only really comes out to $3 per issue.  I do wish it were more than 28 pages.  :)

The Crazy Mom take:  I decided to set these aside so that I could look over them before my kids took off with them.  I have to say I really enjoyed them, even as an adult!  Like I said, I've never been the outdoorsy type, but I've always loved learning about creation.  I'm always fascinated by the detail God has put into his glorious designs.  Once I went through them, I let me 11 year old daughter, Princess, check it out.

She was like, "What is this?"  She wondered why she hadn't seen it before.  She immediately opened the magazine and started to read.  We then did the "hidden picture" page together.  It was actually a really neat time of bonding with my growing up girl.  We did really well, but I have to admit, the raccoon track had us for a while!  LOL  After that I let her check it out herself. Her statement?  "It was cool."  I asked if she'd like to subscribe and she said "Yes."  (Um, yeah, she's not quite as wordy as Mom.)

So my take on this one is that it's a wonderful product.  Since it's an "extra," I think it would be a plus for any homeschool family that belives that it is God who has created nature.  I am going to strongly consider getting a subscription for the younger kids for Christmas.  We just started getting another creation magazine for the older kids (and me) and this would would give us all some wonderful reading!

What's the bottom line?  Annual subscription to the magazine $36/Study guides cost an additional $2 per month.  (See website for more details.  (Back issues are also available.)

I am going to give out of 5 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.naturefriendmagazine.com

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/729105/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product FREE by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

The big moment had come.  David was going to take his driver's test and get his license.  The test was at 9:00 a.m. so the plan was to leave at 8:30 in the morning.  The form the testing people gave us had a list of paperwork we needed to bring.  I had told David to look over the list and make sure we had everything so we would be all ready to leave in the morning.

We were up and out of the house by 8:30.  We got to the test place with time to spare.  We gathered all the papers we needed, but, wait!  Where is the proof of insurance?

"Here it is!" I shout.  "No, this is the old one!  It must be here somewhere!  I just put it in here the other day!"  I shuffle through the center console and the glove box, papers falling everywhere.

You see our policy had run out on Oct. 1st and it was the 8th.  I frantically look at the clock.  Good, it's only 8:50.

I know I just put it in here!  "Why didn't you check for it last night when I told you to check everything?" I asked David, growing even more frantic.

So he proceeds to tell me he checked his stuff.  You know, his permit and driver's ed certificate.  He figured he shouldn't have to check on ours.  Why would he think that??? 

"Drive up to the door!  NO!  Wait!  Let me call Dad!  No!  Just start to go home in case I can't get the AAA number and have to get the copy!  No!  Wait!  Drive me to the door! Go!  Hurry!  Hurry!  I need to make sure they can get a copy faxed!"

So I run in and ask if it's OK if the insurance company faxes them a proof of insurance.  They say it's no problem, and they give me the fax number.  I run back to the car.

"OK," I say to David, "we can just have AAA send a fax.  Now how do I get the number?"

I look on our old proof.  No number.  I try my husband, but can't get him.  I panic again and tell David maybe we should still drive towards home just in case.  He starts to drive home and I finally call information on my cell.  I get the main AAA number and call it.  I get a phone tree.  Do you know how much I hate those phone trees?  I tell the robot lady, "Come on! Come on!"

I tell David to pull into the nearby parking lot.

I sit there until I get a real human and tell her I need an emergency proof, give her the fax number and she puts me on hold to make sure it went through.  I tell David to go back to the test place.

We get there and the test place already has the fax.  It seems like forever, but it's really only like 9:01.  The whole thing was simple, really.  And could have been a whole lot simpler if I had not panicked.

So we take the road test and I sit in the back seat reading a magazine and David passes without a hitch.  God must have felt like giving me a break after my rough morning, so we were actually only at Secretary of State to get his license for about a half hour.  That is unheard of.

Later, I relay the story to my husband who tells me I gave him the proof in the living room and he had put it in his wallet.  Oops! 

So now my oldest son has his license.  I'm just guessing, but I have strange a feeling the panic is just beginning!

~The Crazy Mom

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post HERE.

About the products:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received four different e-products from Educational Diagnostic Prescription Services or EDUDPS.  These books are written by Jill J. Dixon, who, shall we say, is a tad smarter than I am.  She holds a Bachelor of Science in English Education (magna cum laude) and a Master’s Degree in Special Education (summa cum laude). Yep, smart gal.

Jill has written lots of books to help the homeschooler.  You can see the complete list here. The products I received are:

• Roots & Fruits
• Write with the Best (Volume 1)
• Write with the Best (Volume 2)
• The Complete Career, College, and High School Guide for Homeschoolers
  

She also offers several FREE downloads that you can check out here.

Due to time constraints, I was only able to really use Roots and Fruits, a Greek and Latin vocabulary program for grades K-12, with my children.  Roots and Fruits utilizes the English forms of 673 roots and prefixes with their meanings plus 1716 vocabulary words, including 205 of the most commonly tested words on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) in highlighted format for easy identification. It contains words found in other Standardized Tests, too. The program also increases spelling, writing, dictionary and decoding skills.

I did look over the other products and found them to be well done, but for the purposes of this review I will only be giving the pros, cons, and "The Crazy Mom Take" on Roots and Fruits.  Before I do that, however, let me tell you just a little about the other products.

Write with the Best (Volume 1) teaches the mastery of descriptive writing skills, proofreading, literary analysis, and some grammar skills.

Write with the Best (Volume 2) teaches the mastery of informative writing skills, proofreading, and literary analysis. 

Both of these volumes use short lessons (15-30 minutes per day) and can be used with reluctant writers and students who learn differently.  The curriculum actually originated from a writing class Jill taught that included several learning disabled students. The lessons are short and utilize various learning styles.  While Volume 2 builds on the skills learned in Volume 1, they are separate and can be used independently. 

The Complete Career, College, and High School Guide for  Homeschoolers is just a really cool product.  You know, one thing I always thought was a downside of homeschooling vs. public schooling, was that the counselors at the high school seem to be "plugged in" to all the information a high school student needs in order to take the right classes, perform well on tests, and get into the right school or career.  Well, now that I have found this product, I can cross one more item of my very short list of public school pros. 

Now you can be your kid's high school counselor.  Even your middle school child can benefit from this product, or maybe even you or your spouse!  In this 224 page book, you get four self-administered tests that will show you your work and service preference and gifts, your personality type, your primary learning style, and your work environment preference.  Once you do this, you will find out which college majors and careers are most likely right for you. 

The book also contains information about different occupations, high school graduation requirements, volunteer and service opportunities, tests, transcripts, G.P.A.s, scholarships and more.  I just graduated my first son and I had to go through a lot to gather all of this information.  It sure would have been nice to have it all in one place!  Yes, I survived, but I probably could have save myself a lot of time and trouble had I had this book.  Live and learn!  The really cool thing is that your child can actually earn half a high school credit by going through this book!

What are the pros of this product? As the folks at EDUDPS states right on their website, their products contain no "fluff."  I tend to hate fluff.  Once again, I remind you that I am very simple-minded.  I like things straight forward, just the facts ma'am.  I am not one to seek out programs with lots of bells and whistles.  Sometimes it's a good thing, but for a busy and crazy mom like me, the less fluff the better.  When you buy Roots and Fruits you have everything you need.  No need to scramble to gather extra materials.  Easy peasey.  Well, I did get a notebook for each of the kids, and of course, a pencil, but that's it. 

Roots and Fruits is laid out very simply.  The prefix, suffix, or root is given, then it's meaning, and then a few examples of words that have that prefix, suffix, or root.  It's all in alphabetical order too.  It's a simple as that.  I'm just having my kids copy the words, definitions, and examples right now, although the book gives many different ideas for games and activities to make learning them easy and fun.  (I'm just a dud, I guess!  LOL) 

What's not to like?  As far as the content of the product, I didn't find anything not to like about Roots and Fruits.  I'd be hard pressed to find anything negative about a product that was all about words!

There is one thing that I have to say, however.  I am not exactly thrilled with when it comes to the e-versions of this company's products.  The files are set up so that you can only print them twice.  Now, mind you, you can copy what you print out as many times as you like (well, for your own family) from your hard copies, but once you print it from your computer twice, that's it.

I do realize why this must be done.  And while you COULD make multiple copies with your scanner and printer, you probably would not be willing to do so for a friend.  It would just be too much trouble.  But so many people, yes, even Christian homeschoolers, have no problem sending copyrighted electronic documents to their friends.  So, in order to keep this from happening, they have made this policy. 

That being said, my homeschool career, if all goes as planned, will last about 25 years.  Even now, I have still 11 years to go.  I have printed out my copies and now I have to keep from destroying them for 11 years!  This is Crazy Mom here, not some organized, efficient woman who has all her printouts laminated and stored in hanging folders in a well-labeled file cabinet.  No, that's not me.  I have them strewn about the house, here and there.  For every other situation it is a non-issue as I have the originals stored on my computer and I can just reprint as necessary.  I'll always have my e-books from EDUDPS too, I just won't be able to print them.

So, for you organized types, this will be a non-issue. Besides, you do have two copies.  I accidentally messed up the first time around so I sort of "wasted" my first copy.  If I were buying, I'd personally go with the print version.

The Crazy Mom take:

I really like Roots and Fruits because I am a "Word Girl."  I love learning about the origins of words.  I love looking at long and complicated medical jargon and trying to decipher what it means by breaking down the parts of the word.  Yeah, call me weird, but I love etymology.  I really hope to pass this love of words on to my kids.

I guess I got ahead of myself on this one, and I've already told you how I'm using Roots and Fruits.  As busy as I am, and as many things as I have to review this year, I really want to try to squeeze in this book, even if it takes us forever (okay, over a year) to finish it. Knowing how do decode unfamiliar words is a skill I'm sure everyone can use. Besides that, it's fun!  LOL

Also, I love the whole career planning thing.  I have been meaning to have First Born, my 18 year old go through it.  He wants to go to med school, but he has to pick a major for his bachelor's degree.  He really doesn't have a clue what to pick, and if I can find a few spare moments between his classes, job, and social life, I am going to have him take the assessments.  I think those types of tests can really be eye-opening. 

Well, I told you I was not going to review the other products, so I am going to let you check them out yourself.  Me, I have to go to bed as I am taking two of my kids in tomorrow for braces.  Wow!  What an expensive proposition that is!  Forget the career planning.  I think I'll just convince them all to become orthodontists!  LOL

What's the bottom line?  Roots and Fruits e-book $14.98 Currently on Sale for $11.25 (25% off) /Print $17.48 (not bound)/$19.48 comb binding

I am going to give out of 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://edudps.com/index.html

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718587/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Posted in Reviews

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post HERE.

About the products:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received five different lapbooks from A Journey Through Learning.  A Journey Through Learning was started by homeschooling moms, Nancy and Paula, who also happen to be best friends.  That's BFFs for you young folk.  LOL  Meet them here).  Together, Nancy and Paula have created all kinds of lapbooking kits and unit studies to help make learning in your home fun!  Recommended for gradeschoolers grade 2 and up.

Here is a short description of each lapbook I received, taken from the Journey Through Learning Website:

Amphibians: What is an amphibian?, What defenses do they have in order to survive?, What about the amazing world of tadpoles?, Are there differences between frogs and toads?, What are salamanders?, What are caecilians and do we ever see them?

What is a reptile?, What defenses do they have in order to survive?, What do reptiles eat when they get hungry?, Just how strange are chameleons?, Do you want to know about venomous and non-venomous snakes, crocs, turtles, lizards? What is the a food chain and where do reptiles fit on the food chain?

Many parables are included in this lapbook. They include: The Fishing Net, The Prodigal Son, The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, The Wise and Foolish Builders, The Good Samaritan, Jesus is the Vine, The Wedding Feast, The Ungrateful Servant and more.

What animals call the desert home? What about insects and people? Does it rain in the desert? Your child will find out the answers to these questions and so much more with this facsinating Desert Lapbook with Study Guide. Includes a study guide that has all of the information needed to complete the mini-booklets. Beautiful, crisp photos of the desert and its inhabitants can be found through-out. Your child will have a stunning lapbook worthy of sharing with friends and family when complete.

Autumn is Awesome with this lapbook! In our Autumn is Awesome Lapbook with Study Guide, your child will learn about the signs of fall, holidays of fall, migration, symbols of fall and much, much more in a fun, hands-on way through lapbooking. Our lapbook comes with an autumn study guide to help you with filling out your booklets. Very bright and colorful. Color-coded instructions make it easy to put lapbook together.

What are the pros of this product?  These lap books are very nicely done with lots of color.  They're great for your hands on learner. 

What's not to like?  Well, you have to like lapbooks or you probably won't be a good fit for this product!  LOL (OK, maybe you don't love lap books, but are particularly fond of a certain topic.  If so, you might just go ahead and do it!) 

I found a few things as I went along that I didn't quite understand as far as putting it together goes.  Most of that, I'm sure, is my own lack of ability when it comes to multi-step projects, coupled with the fact that this was only my second attempt at a lapbook.  Sometimes I also have the tendency to skim over directions.  Soo...I had a few "oops" moments, but nothing too major. 

Lap books are rather forgiving, though, so none of it was a big deal.  Plus I had accidentally printed out two copies, so I had extra pages in case I goofed.  (And if you goof, the great thing about e-products is that you can just print the page you messed up on and start over!)

The Crazy Mom take:  Well, as you might have guessed, I'm just not a lapbook kinda gal.  In this life I have found that I am just a very plain Jane.  I like things simple.  I don't even put condiments on my sandwiches.  I also dress is dark, solid colors, and I actually loved worksheets as a child.  When it comes to projects, I prefer those that I can do in one sitting.  Lapbooks are like lots of mini projects that end up making one big project.  The problem is, for me, I end up losing interest after doing a few of the projects.  So, there, I have outed myself. 

My kids, on the other hand, seem to be having fun with the Autumn lapbook we are (still) making.  Now that I am writing the review, it will be up to them whether we pull it out again to finish it or not.  If it was up to me, I would not be inspired to do so.  Still, I know lots of people who just love lapbooks.  So if you are one of those people, I'm sure you'll love the wonderful assortment of lapbooks that A Journey Through Learning offers.  From what I have seen of lapbooks (and I admit, I am not expert) these look like very nice quality products. 

I admit, I do feel kinda good seeing my kids do all that cutting, coloring, and pasting.  I am such a lamo about hands- on stuff.  I am totally not hands on.  I was always more of a academic type.  Reading, writing, researching, that's my bag. I did like art, but not when I had to follow someone else's idea of what something is supposed to look like.  So, when I have done these lap books for review, it has been a stretch for me.  Still, again,my kids seem to like it, and after all, I'm not homeschooling just to hear myself teach.  It's for them, and if they're having fun, and maybe even learning a thing or two, that's what counts!

What's the bottom line? Downloads $13/CD-Rom $14/Print $21

I am going to give out 3 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out! http://www.ajourneythroughlearning.com

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718682/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!

Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Posted in Life in the Crazy House

On Sunday mornings my son has to go up to the vet's where he works to feed the animals some time between 7:00 and 8:00.  Around 7:20 my husband woke up and asked me if David had gone yet.  I hadn't heard anyone up and about so I told him I hadn't heard him and that I would go up and make sure he was up.

Well...my husband told me not to go.  After all, our son is 17 and he needs to learn responsibility.  Now this is a new thing for me.  As a homeschool mom, I have to say it has been hard to let the kids grow up and become responsible to a certain degree.  I mean, in many ways they are far more responsible than their public school counterparts, but in others, they are not.  If they lost a book, I was the one to look for it.  I am always asking them if they have their work done, and, though it is the world's hardest job, I am the one to get them up in the mornings.

So, hubby and I argued a bit and I lay their fantasizing about him sleeping until noon and then getting fired.  Finally Dave admitted that he wasn't going to let him sleep too late, but I guess just late enough to teach him a lesson.  So up the stairs he went. 

And wouldn't ya know?  The bed was empty!  David has long since gone to work!   Not much later he came home, oblivious to the problems he had caused!  Kids these days.  Always getting their parents worked up.  The nerve of that boy! 

~The Crazy Mom