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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Reviews

New to my blog?

Check out my welcome post HERE.   

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received Nutrition 101: Chose Life! from Growing Healthy Homes.  The book is available in print form, or on a CD-ROM, although I actually recieved it as a download.  I'm not exactly sure how to characterize this book.  It could be a used as a science book, health book, reference book, or even a recipe book!  It makes for a great base for a unit study. It is set up differently than any other book I've seen on nutrition. 

Nutrition 101 is 448 pages long and is divided into six units: 

• The Brain and Nervous System
• Digestion and Elimination
• Respitory and Olfactory
• Muscular and Skelatal Systems
• Cardiovascular and Immune Systems
• Endocrine System and Emotions

You will learn some basic anatomy and physiology, then you are shown how different foods have either a positive or negative effect on that system.  There are study questions, activities, science and art projects, and even recipes (over 80!) that go along with each section.  It makes so much sense to set up a book this way, rather than just listing different vitamins, minerals, foods, or whatever, and then just telling you what they are good for.  This book teaches you the what, the why, and the how.  And it makes you hungry!

What are the pros of this product? The book is jam-packed with information.  It can be used as a text book, and then kept as a reference.  If you have the e-version, it is quite handy as you can simply print out the recipes or other activity pages.  (Of course, if you have the print version, you can just prop it up in a Studypod when you want to use a recipe!)

What's not to like?  The only thing I had any trouble with is that some of the info went right over my head.  As I was reading to my kids, if it got a little technical, I just sort of generalized the areas that I found were a bit too difficult for them.  (You, know, or they might have asked me to explain further!  LOL)

The Crazy Mom take:  I really like this book.  This year we are all doing science through a co-op, so I'm not really looking for a science curriculum.  However, I know that we really need to change the way we eat.  Case in point: I had some Smarties today, and I told the kids I'd be reading the material to them and then asking questions.  If they got the question right, I'd give them a Smartie.  So here we are talking nutrition, eating candy.  Yeah, I got a ways to go... 

Anyway, I am pathetic, this is true.  But with the Sue Gregg cookbooks and now this book, I am really starting to feel more than a nudge that I need to change my ways.  Ouch!  What was that?  This 2 x 4 just keeps whacking me in the head!  Ouch!  Ouch!

So, I think I might just have to keep working through this book.  I should probably finish reading it myself first, but I really want to share this information with my kids.  I have my printouts sitting right in the basket with all of our other school.  Now that I'm going to be done writing the review, I'll have to be diligent to keep plugging my way through it, or that 2 x 4 will never leave.  Ouch!

You know, there's a recipe for quacamole in the book, and I've bought everything to make it.  It's all in the fridge just calling my name.  I LOVE quacamole, but I've never made it.  So now just might be the time.  I think I'll run up the kitchen and whip up a batch.  The kids are eating ice cream, and I was planning to have a bowl.  Can I eat the quac instead?  Ouch!  Yes, I can!

Update:  I made the guacamole, and it was yummy, but I did break down and eat some ice cream later.  One step at a time.  One step at a time...

What's the bottom line?  Print book $99.95/CD-Rom $79.95/Book plus CD-Rom $129.95

FROM THE WEBSITE: If the book and CD have the same information, what is the value of having both? The book provides all of the information from the CD professionally printed and bound in full color. The CD allows you to reprint individual copies of the recipes, shopping lists, charts and any other relevant pages. Many families print single pages and create a folder for each child. Nutrition 101: Choose Life! is a tremendous resource and having it in both formats allows flexibility and saves you time and money.

*******SPECIAL OFFER!!!*******

Growing Healthy Homes would like to offer the book to you for 25% off the retail price plus shipping and handling.  The true value of this package (electronic file – called CD-ROM on our Web site) and the printed book) is $129.95.  We will offer this special from now until September 30, 2009.

Check it out!  http://www.healthyhomesllc.com/NC_Choose_Life.html

View sample pages

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718679/  

*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 product:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I received a really cool product called a Studypod.  This is just a nifty little device that holds your books up so that you can read them right in from of you, like you do on a computer screen.  It comes in black, blue, and pink.

What are the pros of this product?  It's shaped like a book, so it's easy to store.  Keep it right on your bookshelf!  Amazingly we haven't abused it yet too much, but so far it has lasted in my house for over a month!  LOL  It does seem rather sturdy.  :)

When you want a book to stand up right in front of you, like if you're trying to follow a recipe, or maybe copy study questions onto a computer or into a notebook, it is totally handy.  It would also be great for artists who want to copy a picture, or even for musicians who want to have their music in front of them. 

It also has a little mesh pouch inside to put stuff in, like pencils, pens, or a cell phone.  Not sure I'd use that feature at home, but I imagine there are folks out there for which that would be a handy feature.  We haven't used ours outside our house.

What's not to like? Nothing really, but I wouldn't find it useful for regular reading.  Like if you were reading to kids out of a picture book.  I mean it's meant to hold up books when you want to hold up books.  When you don't, well, it's not that handy.  But that's a tad obvious, is it not?  LOL

The Crazy Mom take:

The other day my son, Woggit, was sitting on the couch with his Apologia General Science book in front of him on a TV table.  He was looking at the study questions and then trying to put the answers into his notebook on his lap.  It didn't look all that productive to me.  Then I had an "Aha!" moment.  The Studypod!  I quickly grabbed it (yes, amazingly I could find it!) and had him prop up his science book on the table, which means he then had plenty of room for his notebook.  No more trying to write on his lap.

You might be wondering why he didn't just sit at the dining room table instead of the couch.  Well, we're homeschoolers,  Duh! Okay, I'm JOKING here!  We actually do a lot at the big table too, but Woggit likes the couch, and believe me, if he wants to do his school on the couch, he'll do his school on the couch.  Why, because the phrase "Woggit wants to do school..." is so completely rare, I am not going to do anything to spoil the moment.  Plus we have the Studypod!

So, bottom line, it's cool!  :)  I have to say we haven't used it a whole lot yet as we are just really getting started with school this year. Between co-op, a short trip to DC, a major cold, etc., we haven't had tons of time for books...  Am I hijacking my own post?   My bad.  Let's just stop right here and let me tell you that I think the Studypod is the kind of thing you CAN live without, but it can make life a lot easier when you DO use it, and I'm all for anything that does that.  Better stop now before I start digressing again... 

What's the bottom line? $19.95

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

Check it out!  http://www.studypodbookholder.com/site/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/721260/

*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 evalutate 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

Raising Real Men:  Surviving, Teaching, and Appreciating Boys
by Hal and Melanie Young
Retail Price: $15

I came across this book one day, I don't even remember how, but I just HAD to have a copy.  So I asked for a review copy and was fortunate to receive one.  (Initially they told me it was only for "big time" bloggers.  Well, I hardly qualify for that, but I also told them I have SIX boys, so they gave in!  LOL)

Anyway, the Young family is a lot like a certain other family I know with six boys, and two girls.  Namely mine!  (Actually I see myself as the mother of 14 because, in my mind, boys count double!  LOL  Well, mine do anyway.)  If you have even one boy, you know they can be a handful.  Sure, there are some quiet, studious, thoughtful boys, but they tend to be the exception, don't they? 

To be fair, two of mine are also fairly quiet, but they still like to do wild stuff like ollie off the porch.  This basically means you run out the front door, jump onto a skateboard, ride off the porch, land back on the board on the sidewalk, and keep on going.  (Before you freak out and call Social Services, this is my 18 year old doing this.  And, no, I did NOT know about it until I saw the picture!)

Well, anyway, raising boys is kinda LIKE doing an ollie off the porch.  You gotta start off running, take a leap, and then keep on going even after you've safely landed, only to do it all over again.  That's what it feels like anyway.  Some days I don't land on the board, some days I'm afraid to take that leap, and some days I can't even get up and running!  But somehow I still manage to keep on going.

This is one of those books I could have written myself.  I agree with just about everything in it.  The Youngs are very balanced people.  They don't seem to take one extreme side of any issue.  Take gun play, for example.  They don't outlaw it in their homes, yet they have made very specific rules about how the boys are to play.  Things like no shooting other people teach them not only gun safety, but it also teaches the spiritual lesson about "avoiding the appearance of evil."

The Youngs also discuss many other areas of "controversy," such as homeschooling, courtship, and discipline.  But no matter what the topic, they keep in mind that boys are simply men who haven't grown up.  (I know a few of those in their 40's!)  There is a tendency in our culture to make boys into sort of a boy/girl hybrid.  They are told to sit all nicey, nicey, and are drugged when they don't.  (Yes, some kids really do have ADHD, but many who don't, I truly believe, are drugged just to make life easier for their parents and teachers.  And to say the thought of drugging my own boys has not crossed my mind, would be a lie!)

The book is laid out so that the first half attempts to explain male behavior.  I say attempts only because, while they do an excellent job explaining all about boys and their ways, us women folk will never quite understand them completely.  I imagine there are times when Melanie is still left scratching her head at some of the things her boys do.  (And dare I say at some of the things Hal does?  LOL)  Okay, to be fair, I'm sure Hal and the boys sometimes scratch their heads at some of the things Melanie and the girls do! :)

The second half of the book basically gives instruction on how to raise these wild, untamed creatures of the male species.  From what they share about their older boys, they have done a fantastic job!  (Would YOU send your 17 year old off to China as a tour guide?  You'd have to be pretty confident in the young man's maturity level, would you not?)

I don't want to tell you too much and give the whole book away, but I do want to tell you of one piece of advice that I have taken to heart.  Let the YOUNGEST child who is able do the job.  The absolute biggest mistake we've made is to rely on our two oldest boys to do most of the work.  Once they were trained it was hard to let the third and fourth take over as it meant re-training.  Who wants to do that?  Well, YOU do if you have more than one or two, or you will find that the others tend to get lazy and even resentful when you DO ask them to do something.  That's how it is around here anyway.  So I have been really on the younger kids to pull their weight around here.  When a job is to be done I now consider the youngest first.  Absolutely great advice.

I really enjoyed the book.  The family reminds me so much of my own, except somehow they seem to have pulled it off so much better than we do!  If you have a boy, I would highly recommend this book.  I could write so much more, but right now I have to go ollie off the porch! 

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

Check out the Raising Real Men Facebook page here.
Find out how to get your own copy here.
Check out the Table of Contents.
Sample Chapter: Racing to Win

ISBN: 978-0-9841443-0-3
256 pages. 6×9 trade paperback.

Posted in Reviews

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By:  Alicia Britt Chole
Bethany House
$13.99

As part of the Bethany House blogger program, I received Alicia Britt Chole's Finding an Unseen God: Reflections of a Former Athiest.  The book is an autobiography that tells Chole's life story as a girl who grows up with no reason to believe in God.  As the story unfolds, we are given glimpses into the mindset of an athiest.  In the end, she is converted in a way not unlike Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus.   In other words, as she followed a path that she felt would in no way lead her to Jesus, she suddenly found herself in his presence.

I enjoyed the book.  It is not fluff, yet it is a quick and enjoyable read.  The writing style is friendly and conversational.  The way the book is written, with excellent advice for dealing with unbelievers woven into Chole's testimony, makes it helpful as well as interesting to read.   

Reading a book such as this one makes it easier to see the athiest not as an ememy, but as someone who is lost and in need of redemption.  It reminds us of the power of prayer and of the power of God.  There might have been people who thought Chole would never come to know Christ, yet people prayed and never gave up, and one wonderful day, the angels rejoiced.

Happy Reading!

Additional information:

Price:	$13.99
ISBN:	978-0-7642-0602-3
ISBN-10:	0-7642-0602-8
Dimensions:	5.5 x 8.375
Number of pages:	176
Carton Quantity:	72
Publication Date:	May. 09
Formats:	Paperback

Posted in Reviews

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UPDATED REVIEW!!!

Hi all, just a quick update here from the folk at ALEKS.  If you read my review from last year, you know that I absolutely loved ALEKS.  As a matter of fact, ALEKS made my TOP 10 TOS Crew Homeschool Product Awards.  (I have reprinted last year's review in its entirety below.)

While the main part of the program remains the same, there are several improvements to the master account.  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I was given an addtional month of ALEKS so that I could check out the new and improved features.  Funny thing is, I spent all my time checking out the main part of the program last year and didn't spend much time using the master account anyway, so I am simply going to tell you what's new.  I will tell you that I HAVE made the effort to use the master account this year and it has been very simple and user friendly. 

So here's what's new!!!

*  The ability to create a randomly generated or personalized quiz for your student

*   Attendance record sheets

*   A drop down menu which allows you the ability to choose which student's account you want to access

*  An overall better and easier to understand master account layout  (See the screenshot below.)

There are a whole slew of new reviews from our crew this year, so I'm going to give you the links for both years.  This will give you plenty of opinions to survey, or better yet, click on the icon at the top of the page (right there under the TOS Homeschool Crew banner) and get a free one month trial and try it for yourself!

Check out what the 2008-2009 Crew had to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/620062/

Check out what the 2009-2010 Crew has to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/718593/

Thanks for reading!

PS.  Right below is a screen shot of the pie chart.  This was my favorite part of the program, as well as my kids' favorite part.  It's just so fun to watch that pie fill up!

Here's last year's review.

Posted in Reviews

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 Check out my welcome post at

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About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received several products from Maverick Books featuring the rough around the edges, yet lovable, dog Hank who lives on a cattle ranch with his friends.  Hank and his pals find themselves in all sorts of interesting situations, whether it's finding a monkey, "disposing of" a cat, or solving the murder of one of the ranch's calves. 

It all began with a book called Hank the Cowdog.  In the original story, Hank, we learn, defends his ranch along with his faithful deputy, Drover.  Hank is accused of murder, resigns as head of ranch security, and joins a gang of coyote outlaws.  Will he come back to save the ranch?  Well, I won't give away the end of the story, but since then Maverick Books has published 53 more exciting Hank adventures.  Along with books, you will discover Hank CD's and cassettes, playing cards, stuffed animals, and more.  Hank is quite the celeb!

John Erikson is the man behind Hank, his friends, and all their shenanigans.  Erikson was once a real live cowboy and cattle rancher.  Like most cowboys, he's got a keen talent for "spinnin' a yarn."  When he started writing about Hank and friends, he kept running into dead ends when trying to find a publisher.  Finally, he decided he'd start his own publishing company and Maverick Books was born.  Erikson not only authors the books, he does all the voices on the CDs. 

I got Tornado, a fun game that features Hank the Cowdog and his friends (which also came with a cassette that tells the story of a tornado which threatened Hank's ranch), a book, The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse, and Tales and Tunes, a sampler CD with excerpts and songs from many of the Hank stories.

What are the pros of this product?  These are just fun products.  Probably not a ton of educational value, but still great products!  Well, I guess if you consider your child will be reading, learning to listen (a lost art), and learning to follow rules and take turns, it just might qualify as an educational product after all. 

What's not to like?  Hank and the gang. as I said earlier, can be a bit rough around the edges.  For example, you might hear Hank refer to someone as stupid or a moron.  Also, phrases like "What the heck?" are used.  For some folks, this might not set right, and they will want to avoid these products. 

I admit that name calling is an issue in my family, and I do tend to cringe when I hear these words being used in children's media. However, I realize that, unfortunately, it's a part of life.  I do my best to nip it in the bud around here, but we haven't gone so far as to prohibit books or shows that include this unfortunate reality of life.  We love Veggie Tales around here, and I would say that the Hank products are pretty much on the same level.  The words are used, but not glorified.  The moral of the story is always a positive one.

The Crazy Mom take:  We've had a lot of fun with these products.  As much as I love getting new homeschool tools, the kid in me loves getting something fun!  The first thing we did was play the Tornado game.  I played with a few of the younger kids and lost miserably.  I don't think I ever got on the board!  Well, maybe I did once, but got sent right back to the beginning.  That's okay, my kids loved it that I sat down and played with them. 

The neat thing about it the game is that it does not come in a cardboard box that will fall apart after opening and closing it a few times.  The whole thing fits into a small plastic case that holds the game pieces and then opens up to make the game's playing board.  Cool stuff!  I would say that the game is quite similar to Sorry or Trouble, only with a twist (groan!) If you like those games, you'll like Tornado.  On the cassette that comes with it you will hear  "Drover's Tornado Safety Song." Drover's funny song is included on your free 30 minute cassette tape from Hank's award winning audio, The Case of the Swirling Killer Tornado.

I gave my daughter, Princess, 11, the book The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse to read, which she eagerly agreed to do.  She enjoyed reading it and liked the book.  The younger kids and I also enjoyed the audio CD, though we would love to hear the complete stories! I'm thinking I might just have to order me up some more CDs!

What's the bottom line? Tornado $12.99/The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse (paperback) $4.24, Tales and Tunes CD $3

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

Check it out!  http://www.hankthecowdog.com/index.html

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/708906/  

*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/company 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 at

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

About the product/service: As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I received a DVD called Web Design for Kids (...and Curious Grownups!)  This DVD features Brian Richardson, a middle school computer literacy teacher and technology expert.  Brian takes on the challenging task of teaching html to children and makes it look easy.  (I guess that's the definition of an expert!)

When Brian first had the idea to teach html to kids, he was looking for something that would not be boring, just busywork, or just plain confusing.  He wanted to give them a skill that would last a lifetime.  He actually said the idea to teach html sounded better to him the longer the thought marinated in his head.  Now, that actually sounds a little gross to me, to be honest, but guess what?  It really is a great idea!  He started teaching in the classroom, threw in some of what he calls "Sesame Street" language, and the rest, as they say, is history.  The next thing he knew he was putting the class on DVD so that kids (and adults) everywhere could learn html with ease.

Here's an excerpt from the website that will tell you a little more about the DVD in Brian's own words:

The DVD is approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes long and consists of seven chapters. Two preteen kids are on the DVD to keep you company and learn along with you! They actually ask a bunch of questions that (after 7+ years of teaching kids web design) I know will pop up in your child's mind! Some of the subjects covered in the DVD are:

• The 10 Basic Lines of Code
• Coloring the Background and Letters
• Making Letters Move Across the Screen
• Designer Backgrounds
• Changing Fonts
• Adding Pictures

There is also a Bonus Chapter on File and Folder Management. Basic things like how to create a folder, how to save things inside the folder, what to do if you accidentally save something in the wrong place, and much more!

What are the pros of this product? This product is very simple to use.  Even young children will be able to follow it and learn html.  Brian Richardson knows how to reach kids and teach them in a way they can understand.  Lots of people take html in college!!!

The product on DVD so your child can put it in the DVD drive and watch it right on the computer, and work as he or she goes.  If you don't have a DVD drive your child will have to watch it with a DVD player, but it's still doable.  Actually, it is a great lesson in taking good notes!  Have your child keep a notebook handy and he or she will have the notes whenever he or she wants to make a website!  Of course, if you're lucky enough to have a computer and TV in the same room, or better yet, a laptop, you've got it made!

Also, everything you need to make a website is already on your computer.  (At least it is on my PC running Windows.) You child will be able to sit down and start making a page right away.  Even if you don't have Internet, or simply don't allow your child on the Internet, you can make a web page right on the computer. 

What's not to like?  Well, Renaissance Man, my resident computer geek, says that some of the info is a bit outdated.  I can't really say one way or another as I haven't done any html programming in the past, other than making something bolded or italicized!  LOL 

Outdated or not, it still works, and for most kids I'm sure it's fine.  Anyone who really decides to get into html will most likely go on to learn the latest and greatest info.  It's always changing anyway, so what's latest and greatest today, will most likely be somewhat outdated in the near future.  This will still give you a fair amount of basic knowledge from what I can see.

The Crazy Mom take:  When I got this product a miracle took place in my home.  One of my kids is just in a really negative stage right now.  Everything, and I mean everything I want him to do, whether it be wake up, go to sleep, change his socks, do his chores, or whatever, is met with grumbling and complaining.  If it has to do with school, it's only worse.  BUT, I asked him if he would check this out for me.  He did.  And he did.  And he did.  He was always asking me for the DVD!!!  He spend hours on it, and did, indeed, learn lots of html.  That alone has convinced me that this is a great product!

What's the bottom line? Regularly $40.00  On Sale Now for $19.99 ($3.99 shipping and handling)  Money Back Guarantee!

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

Check it out!  http://www.webdesignforkids.net/

Click here for a free clip of the DVD!!!

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/709558/

*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/company 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

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About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, I received Old Testament Basics from Grapevine Press.  We were given a choice, so I chose the hard copy of the teacher's edition and the e-book version for the student edition.  I did this so that I could have my copy in hand, yet still be able to easily print out however many copies I needed for each of my kids.

This book is laid out very simply.  It uses a Q & A format to answer basic questions about the Old Testament.  (There are 225 questions.) Then, along with giving the written answer to the question, your child, following your example, draws a simple stick figure to aid in remembering the answer. This also makes it more fun!  This is called "stick figuring!" 

There are also scriptures to back up the answers that are given.  The creators have also made sure that the books are compatible with any denomination.  The only thing I noticed was that there was a reference to the Bible having 66 books.  My Catholic friends will want to edit that part!  ;)

This book is recommended for ages seven and up. 

What are the pros of this product? This is one of those products that I just love.  You don't need lots of prep time, and you don't need prior knowledge of the subject (though I'd hope you do!)  Also, because you can get it in print or e-book format, it makes it easy to fit your particular needs.  It's just really simple, yet it teaches so much.  It's very flexible.  Lots of pros here.

Oh, and there are no excuses that you or your kids can't draw.  Anyone can draw a stick figure!

What's not to like?  We have had no issues with anything here that I can think of.  Some kids may not be satisfied with the whole "stick figure" aspect of it.  They may want to draw more detailed pictures.  Not really a negative, but I wanted to try to think of something! :)  Also, my teacher's guide is not in color, so you have to be able to visualize the colors you want to use.  Not a big deal as there are no color "rules" to follow, though there are suggestions, such as using purple to represent God as it is the color of royalty.  (I'm pretty sure the e-book version is in color, though.)

Oh, I did think of something else.  The way you are supposed to teach is by using a dry erase board and markers to draw your example.  I do NOT like those dry erase markers.  THEY STAIN!!!  They are so popular in homeschool circles, but I have outlawed them.  Obviously, if you feel as I do you can use watercolor markers, crayons, or something else. 

The Crazy Mom take:  My kids have enjoyed this product.  It is so simple even my six-year-old, Baber, can do it.  His stick figures look great.  The whole fact that it's stick figures really works for us because it is so unintimidating.  I LOVE anything that requires so little effort with such fantastic results!  I with everything was this easy to use! 

My kids read lots of Bible storys about the Old Testament, but I think this will really reinforce what they have learned.  This is a keeper!

What's the bottom line? Old Testament Basics Teacher Edition: $24.95/Old Testament Student E-book $19.95 (These are family prices, there are other prices for classes and groups.  There are also bargains for "dent and ding" products.)

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

Check it out!  http://grapevinestudies.com/home/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @ http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/705782/  

*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/company because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evalutate 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 quarantee 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

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About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received the Deluxe Version of Quarter Mile Math which includes the Levels 1, 2 and 3 Bundle.  This program is not new to me as I have used it in the past.  To be honest, I had sort of forgotten about it as I had it installed on my older boys' computer and they are too old for it.  My younger kids generally don't use that computer, plus they had cleared their desktop, and the icon was no longer there. 

Anyway, I remember when we first got it and I was like Boy, this is pretty simple.  I mean, we are used to the latest and greatest graphics around here.  The graphics for this program are anything but late or great.  BUT!  The kids really loved playing this game!  (Well, it's not really a game, but don't tell my kids that!)

Zoom ahead to 2009.  (Wasn't that fun?  You didn't know my blog was a time machine, did you?) Anyway, I installed the software to find that nothing had changed.  It was the same old plain and simple graphics with the simplest of sound effects.  Again, they kids have loved it!!!  There is just something about beating a clock and better yet, breaking your own record. 

Okay, you probably want me to describe it.  Really, you just have either a row of race cars or a row of horses at the bottom of the screen.  Then the problems are flashed on the screen and you have to type in the answer as quickly as possible.  As you do, your car or horse moves forward, well up really.  The computer "plays" along with you, and the other cars and horses move up the screen too.  (There are ways to race other students, but we haven't gotten to that this time around, though I do remember the kids doing it a few years back.) 

The object of the game is to win the race!  That's it!  It's really as simple as that.  You would think with all the high tech stuff out there a kid would find this as boring as all get out, BUT THEY DON'T.  (At least mine don't, I don't know about yours.  I have enough to do around here without worrying about yours.  That is your job!  LOL) 

Anyway, Level 1 is for grades K-3, Level 2 is for grades 4-6, and Level 3 is for grades 6-9.  But don't be fooled, adults can enjoy it too!  You can bundle the levels for a better value.  The program also comes in two versions, the Deluxe Version, which I received, and the Standard Version.  You can compare the two versions here.

What are the pros of this product?  It's very simple and easy to use.  Kids are not distracted by all kinds of moving graphics or sound effects.  It's really all about math.  The fact that they can compete against themselves (and others) makes it a real plus. 

What's not to like?  Some kids might not like the simplicity of the program, but my kids don't seem to mind it a bit.  It would be worth your while, though, to go ahead and try the demo before you buy. 

The Crazy Mom take:  Well, as you can probably tell, I love this because it is simple.  I'm a pretty easy going gal, and you will find that I can find things to love about just about any homeschool program or product.  However, the ones I rave about the most, are the most simple.  With eight kids (well, only seven that I homeschool) to deal with, I don't need anything too complex.  The simpler the better here at the Crazy House! 

And, like I said, my kids love it too.  Just this morning I found Bear sitting on my bed playing it on the laptop.  She did it of her own volition.  (Of course, technically, that's a no no, as they are supposed to ask permission to use the laptop.) 

I think I prefer the Standard Version of the product where I paid once and it is mine to keep rather than having to pay a monthly fee.  You will have to decide which option works best for your family.  Either way, it's a very simple, but neat, little program that will give your kids something fun to do that might just teach them something in the process!

Thanks for reading!

What's the bottom line?  For what I received, the Deluxe Version/Levels 1,2 and 3 Bundle, the cost is $2.95 per family per month/$19.95 per family per year/$34.95 per family for two years.  There are lots of other ways to buy, so check out the website for more info!  News Flash!!!  Until Sept. 30, 2009, use promo code 7M7P7 to get $5 off your order!!!

Download a demo HERE.

I'm going to give Quarter Mile Math 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

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

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/713464/

*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 evalutate 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 quarantee 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!

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RELATIONSHIPS: Bringing Jesus into My World

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Voddie T. Baucham Jr.
Price: $15.99 (Trade Paperback)
Crossway Books

I remember a conversation that took place a few years back between my daughter Princess and I as she took clothes out of the washer and put them in the dryer.  She was probably nine or so when it happened.  I made a comment to her about what a good wife she would be one day and how glad her husband would be that she married him.  She responded, "But the question is...will I be glad I married him?"  Good question.

How do we figure out what kind of man is good enough for our little girl?  And do we even have any say in the matter?  Is good old-fashioned courtship a thing of the past?  Voddie Baucham believes that is shouldn't be, and I happen to agree.  I recieved his book, What He Must Be if He Wants to Marry My Daughter as part of the Crossway Books blogger program.  (See http://www.crossway.org/blog)

This is a great book.  It lays it all out on the line.  I would say about 97% of the population would disagree with most everything in this book.  If you limit it to Christians, it might go down to 92%. Baucham doesn't care.  He has studied the Word, and I believe he is pretty much spot on in what he teaches. 

If you already aren't of the persuasion that men should head the household, and that children are blessings, you will most likely hate this book.  Yes, I said hate.  However, you might just want to read it anyway.  Look at our current divorce rates.  We must be doing something wrong.  I think Baucham is on to something.

This is a good read for anyone with kids who wants them to grow up to have a successful marriage.  And guys, if you aren't the man you should be, it might not be bad to read it for yourself!

Additional information:

Posted in Reviews

About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received the TOS 2009 Homeschool Planner to review.  Now, I have to say, right away, that this product is totally misnamed.  I mean, it is so much more than a homeschool planner.  Seriously, folks, it's like a life coach!  LOL

I'm not kidding here people!  This planner has EVERYTHING!  Well, everything I could ever need anyway, and even some stuff I don't need!  LOL  (I'm thinking here of the page for garden planning.  I wouldn't have a green thumb if I took a green permanent marker to it.  It would probably just turn brown like my plants do!)

I'll try to describe it for you, but I don't know if I can do it justice.  But here goes..

First, there are calendars.  The cool thing is that you can type stuff on to the calendar before printing, leave it blank to pencil in later, or even just keep it on your computer.  Then in each month's section, there is an article, some supplemental information, and two recipes.  There is also a page of links to products available at The Old Schoolhouse Store on the month's topic.  The July theme, for example, is the thirteen original colonies.  (That would be American colonies, of course.)

Then there are the pages for household forms.  There are just so many forms here!  Use these forms to organize everything from your grocery lists, to your Christmas Card lists!  (Be sure I'm on it, too.  I get so few these days!  Could be that I never get around to sending any out?)

Then, of course there's all the homeschool stuff.  I kid you not, there really are forms for everything school related you can think of.  There are ideas to keep your toddlers busy and there's an article about getting your teen into college. Then there's a form for everything in between. There are forms for keeping track of subjects studied, crafts completed, library books borrowed, chores completed, grades earned, etc., etc., etc.  I'm getting tired of typing here, so I'll just move on!  LOL

Then there are just all the extras!  Pages to help your little one practice the alphabet, lists of all sorts of interesting facts, on and on it goes.  Let's just put it this way, you could spend 24/7 using this planner and still not get to everything.  It just has SO much! 

What are the pros of this product?  Well, I think you can figure out from my description above that there are lots of pros.  I like that you can type right onto the forms.  That's my main gripe with most PDF stuff.  I like that it does not take the approach that all homeschoolers teach alike.  There are even forms for unschoolers in the planner.  I like that there is just so much information here! 

I guess it's not bad!  LOL  :)

What's not to like?  I thought a good, long, time to come up with three things I wish had been included in this planner.

1.

2.

3.

Sorry, folks, they have thought of everything!  Honestly, if you buy this planner and find that they have not thought of something, you just leave a comment and I will let the good folks at TOS know about it! ;)

The Crazy Mom take:  OK, I really like this product.  Now, the real test will be if I am smart enough to actually USE it!  I tend to be a bit of a "fly by the seat of my pants" kinda gals.  I NEED to use planners!  I think the first thing I am going to do with it is plan next year's school year.  Each year I just scribble out my plans in old notebooks and then lose them before I order the books.  LOL  I also never follow the great schedule I come up with because I can't find it!  This year I will type everything right onto the planner page and it will be sitting right here on my computer.  Then I can print it out and lose it as many times as I want to!  :)

Of course, if you are an organized sort of gal, you will probably be even more excited about the planner than I am. So check it out and happy planning!!!

What's the bottom line? $39.00

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

Check it out!  http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=191_193&products_id=10450

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/698913/

*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!!!

Posted in Reviews

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LOVE IS A VERB
STORIES OF WHAT HAPPENS WHEN LOVE COMES ALIVE

BY:  Gary Chapman

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Exposure
A Novel


By: Brandilyn Collins   

Format: Softcover | Audio Download, Unabridged | Show All

List Price: $14.99 (USD) 

As part of Zondervan's blogger program I was sent an advance reader's copy of Exposure, by Brandilyn Collins.  I can't hold it in, I loved this book!!!

Okay, I know I'm supposed to tell you a bit about the book first, before I give you my take on it, so here it goes.  The story revolves around a newspaper columnist names Kaycee Raye.  Kaycee deals with multiple fears and devotes a column to writing about those fears and helping others to deal with their own fear issues. 

One day Kaycee comes home and is standing in her kitchen when suddenly a camera she hadn't noticed sitting on her table takes her picture.  Frightened, she picks up the camera to find not just her own picture, but a picture of a dead man.  She throws the camera in a panic and goes to the police, only to have them search the house and find nothing out of order, and of course, no camera.  The police write it off as one of Kaycee's many false alarms.

This is just the first in a number of mysterious and terrifying events which Kaycee must try to ignore as she has an even more important task ahead of her.  A young friend of hers has gone missing and she must find her. 

This book was a page-turner from page one.  I was totally absorbed in the storyline from the minute I started reading.  As with any good mystery, I was totally stumped as to what was going on and try as I did, I could not put all the pieces together.  In the end was twist I never saw coming. 

Brandilynn Collins is a new author to me, but I will be reading more of her books.  Like I said above, I really loved this book!

Happy reading!

Additional info:

ISBN: 0310276438,  ISBN-13: 9780310276432

Suggested Uses: Spiritual Growth
Ages: Adult

Related Product Types: Fiction – Suspense / Mystery

Book & Bible Cover Size: Medium
Page Count: 272

Paper Edge Description: Plain
Size: 5.5 wide x 8.4 high x 0.8 deep in. | 139 wide x 213 high x deep 20 mm
Weight: 0.615 lb | 278 gms

Available: June 2009
Publisher: Zondervan

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Hello blog readers!

Well, my first year-long stint as a TOS Crew reviewer has come to an end.  I have to say, it has been one of the most wonderful and fulfilling things I have done!  I got to try SO MANY new and wonderful things! 

It's been lots of fun to try all of these products and services with my family, and I have really enjoyed sharing my opinions with all of you.  I hope you have enjoyed reading about them as much as I have enjoyed writing about them! 

It wasn't easy, but I have chosen my Top Ten Products for 2009.  They are in no particular order. 

THE BEST!!!

ALEKS

One Year Adventure Novel

Crayola Art Studio

Friendly Chemistry

Math Mammoth

Flying Creatures of the 5th Day

The Missing Link: FOUND

Times Tales

Latina Christiana

SpellQuizzer

ALEKS is a web-based math program that corrects you child's work as he or she goes along.  Progress is shown as the pie chart fills up.  My son completed an entire year's worth of work in two month's becausehe was so motivated by ALEKS's unique program.

ONE YEAR ADVENTURE NOVEL is a fantastic creative writing program that will show your child, step by step, how to write an entire adventure novel in just one year!

CRAYOLA ART STUDIO is like Microsoft Paint on steroids.  It's just too cool for words, you'll have to check it out for yourself.

FRIENDLY CHEMISTRY is a program that's not pretty, but it makes chemistry so simple; I loved it!  A diamond in the rough, that I hope really catches on in the near future!

MATH MAMMOTH makes doing math simple.  Just print out the pages you need and you're good to go.  No more misplacing books and you can print each page as many times as necessary for a child who needs practice, or even other kids in the family.  Sorry, you still might have to search for a pencil.

FLYING CREATURES OF THE FIFTH DAY from Apologia.  This book is all about birds, bats, flying insects and more.  Very easy to read, and lots of fun ideas for your budding scientist.

THE MISSING LINK: FOUND is an exciting adventure novel written by a homeschool girl.  It's all about a family who believes in a young earth and the trials they go through as they try to discover the truth about the discovery of the so-called missing link.

TIMES TALES is just the way coolest way to teach your kids the upper level times tables.  Period.

LATINA CHRISTIANA is an easy to use program that will help you to teach your child Latin.  You'll learn it too!  :)

SPELLQUIZZER is an easy to use computer program that will help your child learn to spell.  My kids love it!!!

So there you have it!  My Top 10!  I must admit, though, there are lots of others that almost made the cut.  I pretty much loved everything I got.  It was a great year! 

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From a Distance

Happy reading!!!

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Price: $15.99 (Trade Paperback)

As part of the blogger program from Crossway Books I got a copy of What Does the Bible Say About That? by Carolyn Larsen and illustrated by Rick Incrocci.  I didn't know what to expect when I joined the program, but I was pleasantly surprised to find this book on my doorstep!

The book is marketed to kids ages 8-12 and, as you might guess from the title, addresses many topics from a biblical perspective.  When I say many, I mean well over 300 topics.  It covers everything from anger and attitude to world missions and worship.  Each page addresses a single topic, and it is all laid out in a simple and easy to use format.

First, the topic is addressed in general, then several scriptures are given that address the subject specifically, then after a bit more discussion there is a "Today I will..." section that gives your child (or maybe you!) a way to apply what the Bible says about a certain issue to his/her (or your!) life.

This is such a wonderful book to have.  You could use it as a daily devotional, or you could pull it out when you need to address a particular issue.  Of course, it would certainly okay to do both! 

My plan is to go through this book over the summer with my kids, addressing one or maybe two issues per day.  I think we will simply read through it in order, but I might choose to address a specific area if necessary.  The way I look at it though, most kids (and parents!) need tweaking, or just a better biblical understanding, in just about every area of life.  My five-year-old and thirteen-year-old will be joining my eight, nine and eleven-year-olds as we go through this book.

If you are like me you probably tend to bring up scripture when you are trying to help your kids work out their issues.  This book will be a handy little guide to help you do just that.  You can even hand it to your child, and have him or her look up the topic and study it on his or her own.  Beats giving a lecture! 

As you might have guessed, I highly recommend this book. 

~The Crazy Mom

For more info about Crossway and their publications visit their blog at:  http://www.crossway.org/blog

• ISBN-10: 1433502135
• ISBN-13: 9781433502132
• Format: Trade Paperback
• Pages: 352 Size: 6 x 9 inches
• Published: Jan 31, 2009