Celtic Woman and The Princess Academy  by Allison Elizabeth
Well, Before I start about the book review, guess what I got to do this week!!!!!! I went and saw Celtic Woman's "Isle of Hope" tour!!!!! It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! The stage was beautiful. They had impressive lighting that  changed with the songs. During loud drums, the light would flash very brightly, but it just added to the effect. Lol They sang all of my favorite "CW" songs, including: -Orinoco Flow (LOVE this song!) -The Ceili (Again... LOVE this song!) -Spanish Lady (Ok, maybe I love all of their songs...) -Oh, America (A real tear jerker, lol) -Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears -The Call and some solos... -True Colors... (more)

  by pixel*8*design
Okay, this is a very teeny thumbnail on here, but hopefully you're able to see it on Photobucket. These images were taken up at a friend's in Charlevoix, Michigan. It's so beautiful up there. On a good day, you can see Lake Michigan peeking out from the trees. It's so neat. So I tried to capture the entire view by taking about 12 or 13 images and patching them together in Photoshop. It's not like actually being there, but it give the idea I hope. If I had to move, I think UP is... (more)

And the Winner Is......  by Trisch
  Piglet2U!!! Thank you EVERYONE for your wonderful entries!  It was so nice to read all your sweet comments and how many of you are going to start a Gratefulness Journal for your husbands or daddies!  You will bless them incredibly!  I wish you ALL could have won! I want to remind you that there are  wonderful resources at Revive Our Hearts--you can sign up for 30 Day Challenges, and two of them are a Gratefulness Challenge and a Husband Encouragement Challenge!  You will get an e-mail each day focusing on another aspect of gratefulness and encouragement.  I highly recommend them!    You can find them... (more)

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  by Mariah
I started horse-back riding lessons again! It's at a really big and nice place. I ride a horse named Maverick and take with my BFF Madison who rides Freddie. Bye For Now! ~Maggy Butterscotch aka Princess Pup ... (more)

WAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!  by Mariah
I had to stop taking riding lessons AGAIN! Because my teacher was to busy............. ~Maggy Butterscotch aka Princess Pup ... (more)

Our First Conversation  by christinethecurious
K was very fussy last night.  I asked her almost teasingly, "K, what is the matter." She calmed down immediately and enunciated carefully, "Mamma, Goo." "Goo?" I asked "Goo." she replied. "Is your diaper poopy?" I guessed. "Goo." I picked her up from her crib, checked her diaper, and while it wasn't poopy, it was very, very wet. "Dan!" I called DH, "She talked to me!" Well, you know, talked, sorta kinda...better than crying. ... (more)

New Adventures  by Mrs. L
I have always wanted to nurture talent as it appears in my kids, not just passing fancies that they have, but true desires that I see in them that are truly a part of who they are.  Emily has started private art lessons with a local artist and she loves it.  He is focusing on drawing with her and he is very impressed with her work and he should be because she has a talent for it!  Drawing is a passion of Em's and has been since she could hold a pencil properly, it is a part of who she... (more)

God's Little Princess Devotional Bible  by CanadianLadybug
God’s Little Princess Devotional Bible By Sheila Walsh Published at Thomas Nelson About the book Every girl is a princess, the daughter of a King… the greatest King who created and rules over everything! Girls long to be loved and adored, and give their heart to their hero. God is that hero! God is that Hero. This devotional Bible for young girls uses Scripture selection from the International Children’s Bible alongside articles that help girls blossom into the princesses they were always meant to be. Virtues to create true beauty, such as honor, charity, compassion, sharing, truth, fairness and more, are... (more)

Word of Promise Next Generation New Testament MP3 CDs.  by CanadianLadybug
Recently I had the opportunity of reviewing the Next Generation New Testament MP3 CDs. This is a dramatic version of the New Testament with a cast of young talent like Cody Linley, AnnaSophia Robb, Jordin Sparks, Cobin Bleu, Alyson Stoner, and Sean Astin. Also part of the cast are Max Lucado and his daughter Jenna who present the various books of the New Testament. Jenna is also a speaker of the Revolve Tour. Today’s youth is wired like there is no tomorrow. The media is part of their culture. They live, eat, sleep with the internet being part of... (more)

Learning to write properly with WriteShop Primary!  by CanadianLadybug
WriteShop is well known among high school homeschoolers with the WriteShop series. Well the exciting news is that they are coming out with a writing curriculum for K-3rd graders. Each day, you will have easy activities to do with your child! The strength of WriteShop is that it teaches the skills of the writing process. This time you will find a multitude of activities and subjects to write with your kids as well as crafts and picture books. It is easy to adapt the WriteShop Primary to accommodate the beginners or more advanced writers in your family. You can even... (more)

How God Makes Babies  by CanadianLadybug
How God Makes Babies Written By Jim Burns Published at Bethany House  About the book  Laying the Foundations for Healthy SexualityAn Age-Appropriate Resource for Ages 6 to 9 Children's curiosity often prompts them to ask questions you, as a parent, don't feel ready or able to answer. But it doesn't have to be that way. Dr. Jim Burns, family expert and award-winning author, offers a valuable resource for those uncomfortable--even dreaded--conversations. With biblical, age-appropriate information and illustrations, How God Makes Babies introduces children ages 6 to 9 to the basics of human sexuality. Answering the question of where babies come from,... (more)

God Made Your Body  by CanadianLadybug
God Made Your Body Written by Jim Burn Published at Bethany House About the book Laying the Foundations for Healthy SexualityAn Age-Appropriate Resource for Ages 3 to 5 Children's curiosity often prompts them to ask questions you, as a parent, don't feel ready or able to answer. But it doesn't have to be that way.  Dr. Jim Burns, family expert and award-winning author, offers a valuable resource for those uncomfortable--even dreaded--conversations. With biblical, age-appropriate information and illustrations, God Made Your Body introduces children ages 3 to 5 to the basic idea that God created our bodies. Addressing topics such as... (more)

Beatiful Sunday  by M & M's
Good Morning All!! Praying that God blesses you today with a light and happy heart!! I will share my devotions on this Beautiful day. "Jesus gave us His peace for our protection. We are to "hold our peace" and "let peace be the umpire" in every situation. (Exodus 14:14, Colossians 3:15) We should "crave peace and pursue it" and be "makers and maintainers of peace" (Ps. 34:14, Matthew 5:9) If we want to experience God's power we MUST resist Satan's attempts to stir up strife. The Lord wants us to live in peace with each other, yet such life often... (more)

What's bugging me most--The kids or my own deservations?  by ladeebugBstill
"Bug off", I used to say that to my children until I realized that one day they would say that to me (cause they learn what they live), I learned that my children come before my friends on the phone and even myself. I do deserve a break today but in my deservations with myself--I do not want to DE-SERVE(what is the meaning of the prefix de ?)my own precious flesh and blood. We forget, until we meditate on the life span time we have used and may have remaining in their lives at how quickly the time is flying... (more)

Titles are dumb  by Jane Doe
Hey yall. Unfotunatly im typing from my fone so I can't skip lines. N e wayz I went to the mall 2day (or yesterday...not sure what time it it :D ) with a couple of friends and my sis. It was hillarious. I might post picz 2day (which might be yesterday by now). N e wayz we went to a pizza stand thingy and asked for a taco and this guy waz getting irritied while his co-workers were crackin up. And this guy who worked at this ice cream stand thingy waz flirting with my friend (dezi) and I and... (more)

Saturday  by mrsowr
Here I am on Saturday about to head off to bed. It has been a full but relaxing day. I do have one question? Do you realize how much work clothing is? I have 4 Precious Blessings and that adds up to alot of clothing. I don't buy much but I do have to buy a few things, some clothing comes by way of hand me downs, I do a little thrift shopping and a little retail sale shopping, some comes in wonderful packages in the mail from Nana(I love these).  Work created by clothing: Laundry....multiple loads... (more)

A busy nice full day......  by Martyomenko
It was a really nice day. I wrote out my schedule last night for today so that it would go smoothly in spite of all the things I had planned and it worked well!  I am really loving this schedule thing,  at least for my upper level of my house. My lower level is sort been ignored, but some day, people!! <p> Not the most flattering picture, but I went to Tricia Goyer's book signing today at Borders, which was fun!! I got her to sign my copy of Love find's you in Lonesome Prairie Montana before I read it... (more)

We Need Revival  by Thrice Blessed
JESUS IS COMING SOON! MARANATHA LORD! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Hi friends, if you need to silence the music just hit the play/pause button on the player in the right sidebar, just below the black horse and the copyright notice. *********************************************************************     7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold... (more)

I've Moved!  by Bethany Joy
Hello, friends. I'm not dead, can you believe it?! There's entirely too much to explain at the present time, but I have just today started a new blog. You can read about why I haven't posted since November and why I'm moving by hopping over to http://drgnfly1010.wordpress.com. Thank you so much for reading my blog and keeping up with me and commenting.. I know I've been off-kilter not only since August, but even before that, but I'm hoping that that's all going to change now ;). So please check out my new blog and follow it!  I'm still in the... (more)

Are you growing?  by Angel
Go to God in prayer daily. Read God's word daily. Obey God moment by moment. ... (more)

Some Favourite Links  by Cat
Homeschooling Links Ambleside Online The Ambleside Online curriculum is a free homeschooling curriculum designed to be a modern equivalent to the curriculum that Charlotte Mason (CM) used in her own PNEU schools. Though not quite CM-in-a-box, a homeschool guide such as this can be a real help to parents attempting to make the... (more)

What Made Me Smile Especially Big Since Last Time  by JFandTTM
If I remember I'm also going to start adding a "What Made Me Smile Especially Big Since Last Post" story at the end of each new posting (if it's not already terribly long like my last one).  My story for this week is the "non-verbal communication assignment."  For this story, we must move the scene to the Branson Landing, a new promenade of stores in downtown.  Assignment: Go to a public place and observe people's non-verbal communications including gestures, expressions, paralanguage, and more.  I took Rachel along and we had a blast just walking up and back down the landing... (more)

What a Week  by JFandTTM
Yes it was.  Quite a bit has been happening. To catch up on things, the following big events have happened: - College, as usual - No job at T.J. Maxx - Possible jobs now with Akers and Arney or someone Jory knows - AIM Team Halloween outreach - FAMILY RETURNED - More Monkey Moe's work - Gift of Green - Looking into next semester's classes I have been keeping very busy with my two new classes and all the time I have to spend online talking to other people that are on their computers all debating a corresponding theological question.  Takes a long time when you have 12 people in... (more)

We LoVe FaLL!  by mom2allboys
Safe in Daddy's arms! And happy in mamma's arms! This is our fall garden....peas, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage.....mmmm..... Elijah and Simon helped their dad plant this garden and they tend it, so Elijah was just checking on his progress! Simon learned to ride his bike w/no training wheels!  Now we just need to work on learning how to use the brakes! Look, Ma!  No training wheels! Thank You, Lord, for the beautiful fall weather! ... (more)

"Day Trip" to Santa Cruz  by Leigharev
It all began with the simple thought, "why don't I take the boys to Santa Cruz for the day.  We can dip or toes in the ocean, and maybe I can meet up with a friend I have not seen since high school." The day started off just fine.  Traffic was OK, and we were delighted to discover a totally unexpected view.  Coming over a hill, heading into Benicia, through a light mist, we see a bunch of unique looking boats.  'A' was convinced they wre battleships, but I could not be certain.  I promised him we'd look it up online... (more)

Tickled Blue!  by SuperAngel
I am so excited and very proud to say I am now officially the oldest of 9 children! :) Samuel Ira was born today! We are 20 years and 12 days apart.  He is just precious and sweet! A true gift from God! I'm tickled there is another newborn in the house! :D Altho... there are so many people to share him with. LOL! Trying to snatch him anytime I can! ;) Will get some more up about him and pictures soon! :D I am just soo happy he's here! I am so blessed by God to have another sibling... (more)

Fun Weekend With Cousins  by mom2allboys
My oldest brother's children spent the weekend w/my mom and dad, and the boys and I got a chance to spend some time w/them!  We had beautiful weather, rode the pony some, rumbled and tumbled in the leaves, roasted hot dogs outside, fed leftovers to a skunk that is quickly becoming a family pet, and just enjoyed one another's company!  We are so blessed!   ... (more)

What is your Homeschool Vision?  by lambofHisflock
This coming Thursday, the topic of chat is defining your homeschool vision.. and perhaps in parallel your vision for your family. And having defined it.. to focus your eyes upon it.. and living life intentionally in pursuit of that vision. Come join us in the discussion and discover with us the vision that lights our way, this Thursday at the Homeschool Encouragement Center at 9pm EST I was particularly moved by an article at the Homeschool Encourager..  and so I am sharing it here.  A vision-driven Homeschool….  ”He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the... (more)

check out our new video on this link down below =)  by Gabriella and Sharpay
www.youtube.com and in the box type in allforoneandnone4all and then click the one that says Hannah falling off a chair =) Enjoy =) ... (more)

Emotional Homeschooling  by Brandie "Bee"
Have you ever based your homeschool day based on how you were feeling? That never happens to me, of course, but I've heard of it before.... Ok, so I do that...a lot. When I feel good, I get in my quiet time, have a hot breakfast ready for Hubby before he goes to work in the morning, the children come downstairs singing my praises, and everything has a "Golden Grahams" quality to it. But often, I don't feel as great. Then I wake up. Late. Again. No quiet time, I run to get cereal in a bowl for Hubby to take to work.... (more)

website and Newsletter  by Smile
I have a Raising chicken website that Is up and Running. I am working on getting Members to do a little homework, but if they don't want to They would Not fail. http://www.raisingchicken.webs.com, Please join if you want. Also I have a Newsletter to all who Don't want to Join the website, its Just emailing and you will get it Instantly, well the One you missed.  So Please Join that also. Thanks all For Looking at my Blog, Till next time ... (more)

It was a bright and sunny morning...  by weheartmusic
It was a bright and sunny morning, and I was on my way to my flute lesson. My mom was driving, I was riding shot-gun, and Emma was sitting in the back seat working on her school. There were a few butterflies taking flight in my stomach, since I knew that I hadn't practiced much the past week, so I took a deep breath... and exhaled.   We turned the corner, where my mom dropped me off at my destination... the local highschool. This was where I would have my flute lesson with my wonderful teacher, Mrs. G. So I grabbed my... (more)

Prolife Avatars  by Willow
... (more)

Tis the season  by 6blessings
Time to start thinking thoughts of Christmas. What projects do I need to start now in order to get done in time for Christmas?? Hmmm well, I want to make W-6 & L-4 some capes. They are constantly wanting me to tie recieving blankets or towels around their shoulders so they can have a cape so I know they would love some real ones. My plan is to make each boy a reversable cape with velcro at the neck so I dont need to always be tying something.  Im thinking that on one side I will put a superman symbol... (more)

ah the joys of a big family  by 6blessings
always someone to play with, fight with, share toys with, share germs with. As usual along with the arrival of winter came the arrival of sickness. Sooooo not fun. D-9 was first one sick, more than likely picked it up at school (cant recall if I have mentioned that he is now going to half days of Pub School Special Ed this year). Then one by one each child was bit by the bug . Only a 24-48 hour bug, not too bad right? Nope, not bad at all if there are 1-2 dc in the family. However.... when you... (more)

November 6th We start out.  by Pine
We started out today . It was calm at first, but then we entered the  dark woods. We stopped to let the dragons rest . While they were resting we went looking for the magic items. "Uh-oh!" I said. "I think Moonstone lost a scale." "No. Look!" said Liina. "There is mud  on the scale. It has been here for some time now. Hey! Maybe this is one of the items! Look at this!"  "It is!  Two down three to go!" Walking further into the woods we saw an old hut,Liina began to slip inside. "Stop!" I cried. She stopped. "What?" she said.... (more)

A tag from Luckyme  by Michael
What are your ten favorite fiction books? (Not necessarily in order). 1. The Warrior series (by Erin Hunter) 2. The Eragon Series ( by Christopher Paolini ) 3. The Geronimo Series (by Geronimo Stilton) 4. The Hardy Boy series(by Franklin W. Dixon) 5. The Chronicles of Narnia (by C.S.Lewis) 6. The new Jedi order (by a bunch of different people) 7. Lord of the rings(by J. R. Tolkin) 8. The Railway Children (by Edith Nesbit) 9. Tom Swift (by IDK) 10. Touchdown Alxander ( by Shawn Alxander) What are the five most influential books on your life? 1. The Bible 2. Battlefield of the mind for kids (by IDK) 3.... (more)

Raider and Smore tree club  by Jen-Jen
Well our dog Raider had been vometing and was very weak. So we took him to the vet and he had surgery and today we visited him and he looked GREAT!!! Me and my neighbor envented a club in our tree. Well I was in it and slipped on a limb and was hanging, but I noticed that I was close to the ground so I let go and fell.( I have a lot of big scraps on my arms!) * PLEASE pray for Raider!!!!!!!!! ... (more)

A Very Short Indian Summer ~ Saturday  by Mrs. Teaberry
   The weather today was delightful!  It was around 60-degrees and sunny.  After three weeks of largely cold, dreary and/or wet weather, this has been a most welcome relief!  I shall soak it up as long as it lasts, because the cold is about to settle in for good.    The horse barn is coming along in very pleasantly.  All that is left on the outside is to build the stall doors and side the north wall under the open aisleway.  I've built some storage shelves in the tack room, hung a half dozen bridle racks (a paltry number, but adequate... (more)

Joy!  by Megan
... (more)

Homeschool Crew Review: America’s Heritage: An Adventure in Liberty  by Annie Kate
  “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be.”  Thomas Jefferson  The United States is, undeniably, facing difficult times.   The American Heritage Resource Education Foundation says these problems arise partly because the citizens are forsaking their roots, expecting to remain civilized and free while being ignorant of the past. The website proclaims, “The experts agree--America is in such significant social, cultural, philosophical, governmental, and educational decline that, if continued unabated, it will result in the death of the country.”      For a country built on the concepts... (more)

Update on Father-in-law  by weareqf
Just thought that I'd give a quick update on how my Father-in-law is doing after his bypass surgery... I'm happy to report that he is doing great!! They anticipate that he will get to go home on Monday morning. It will, of course, be a long road to full recovery but I don't doubt that he will be his spritely, humorous self in no time! DH has been on the scene to drive his mom back and forth to the hospital and help out however he can. Your prayers for continued recovery and strength for my Father-in law are most appreciated!! ... (more)

Found Some Excellent Sermons on Anxiety  by Eren Mckay
Hello my Dear Friends, The Lord works in mysterious ways. On Friday I woke up and really felt the Lord moving me to search for sermons on anxiety. I found two excellent sermons and I listened to them more than once. I spent all of Friday morning listening to those teachings and was really feeling at peace. I know that He was preparing my heart. As soon as I finished listening to the sermons, my mom called and told me that my dad had fainted in the middle of the street but that he was okay. My father has Parkinsons but this has never... (more)

  by Rainbow
Today my brothers being SOOOOO weird.  (And annoying) Got nothing else to say. :( rainbow ... (more)

  by Sarah
Here is the pictures of the week! (I know it's not in the least bit cold but I just felt like posting snow pictures the tope one it me the bottom one is Samantha) ~Sarah~ ... (more)

True Image Saturday!  by Godsgurl93
I have decided to start a little project! Every Saturday night, I'll post certain things that I liked out of the Zondervan's "True Images Bible" and see how everyone likes it! So here is my first entry........ Love Notes (from God) My child, When you are stopped by criticism or discouraged by negative comments, remember David. He ignored his detractors and focused on doing what was right in my sight. I love it when you choose my opinion over the opinion of others! ~~~~~~ The One whose opinion counts [When have you chosen pleasing God over pleasing someone else? What happened?] Please comment or... (more)

What do we mean when we say put a tune under it?  by Gabriella and Sharpay
When I say that I mean like this Title:Dogs are Friends with Cats Tune: Darth Vader song Verse: Understand? ;) ... (more)

A poem to ponder.....  by someone marvelous
On either side the river lie Long fields of barley and of rye, That clothe the world and meet the sky; And thro' the field the road runs by To many-tower'd Camelot; And up and down the people go, Gazing where the lilies blow Round an island there below, The island of Shalott. Willows whiten, aspens quiver, Little breezes dusk and shiver Through the wave that runs for ever By the island in the river Flowing down to Camelot. Four grey walls, and four grey towers, Overlook a space of flowers, And the silent isle imbowers The Lady... (more)

I FOUND IT!  by Sarah
You know what? I TOTALLY forgot I asked how I should write my posts! And I changed it but I just never got around to it so this is how I'm writing my posts now. ....................................... I FOUND THE HORSE PICTURE! YEAH! FINALLY! IT'S PERFECT! :D Wait! I forgot to say what happend today! :0 Okay so I'll tell you...................................................... Today I think I walked around the ENTIRE world! :D Well no but I walked/ran 3 MILES!!!! :0 :O :o Wow! My dad and I went to "Rockwood Reservations" and they have a LOT  of trails! It's really cool! And before that........... (more)

Featured Blogger ~ DiamondsInTheRough  by HomeschoolBlogger Company Blog
This week's Featured Blogger is Diamonds In The Rough! "Mrs. Diamond" and I have been getting to know each other through our blogs. Her "Diamondettes" (I refuse to cal them lumps of coal), have been blog friends with my girls for awhile now. It's fun to meet families as a family on HSB! Now there are TONS of blog posts I could link you to, but I had such a hard time deciding what to go with. I've opted to link to categories, that way you can see a bunch of posts at one time. The first category up is Emily's... (more)

A Happy Saturday  by Kendra
Today was a happy Saturday. We started our day earlier than most Saturdays and headed to church for Bible quizzing. Lukas is a "quizzer" this year. The Nazarene quizzing program is phenomenal. We are amazed at how much he is learning on their quest through the books of Joshua, Judges and Ruth this year. They're still studying Joshua at this point, and I am pretty sure he knows more than I do about that particular book of the Bible, though I have learned quite a bit through helping him to prepare for the quiz meet. I am the most proud... (more)

A weird poem I made up  by Rainbow
Heres a weird poem I made up. Today I'm bord, with nothing to do. We pulled out the fridge and thats all we did. A man came over and he's from dover. I went on HSB. And my friend sat on a bee. rainbow ... (more)

I guess shes still pouting  by tracy dixon
Well today I had to put the udder support on Tisha so Tasha would quit nursing. She has pouted at me all day. LOL I dont exactly have it on there perfect cause I cant hardly figure it out. But it'll do the job I guess. Today I let the Buffs out of the hutch and into the coop with the others and already the oldest hen attacked one. She just might be chicken soup one day if she keeps this up! She got really close to her jugular vein and she is really weak and cant walk. I will check... (more)

Picture Book Pleasures: Delicious Picks for Fall  by picketfencemom
Children’s picture books are a staple in the homes of most families. They have long been the first choice for bedtime stories or just for when someone needs a cuddle on the couch. Well-loved stories have stood the test of time and bring back good memories from our childhoods, and we all need that special reminder from time to time—no matter how old we are. Moreover, we are always discovering new favorites as we share them with our children, ever adding to the cherished cache. Picture books can also help us celebrate the changing seasons as we read beloved classics... (more)

  by Sarah
I'm picking a horse picture for Kelly (my aunt) to paint in my room! ............................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................... .....................Ooooo! I like that one! ............................................... Ooo! What about that one?.....................................................................Ooooooooooooo! Or that one........................................ ....................................... This is going to be harder than it looks well I got to get busy! Sarah ... (more)

*SIGH*  by MollyluvsHarryPotter
THIS IS TO EVERY MOTHER WHO EVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH GUYS WEARING SKINNY JEANS!!! True,Marty McFly does wear them on his waist,BUT EVERY SKINNY JEANS WEARING GUY I KNOW WEARS THEM LIKE THAT TOO! And my Mom complains about them ,because she can!!!! SO HA!!!! In the eighties MARTY MCFLY WORE SKINNIES TOO!!! And he makes it look somewhat good! ... (more)

No more halo!!!  by Megan
Finally, our big day arrived! C's halo removal surgery was on Nov. 5th. We had been waiting for what seemed like forever for this day. Needless to say we were all very excited and filled with anticipation and hope for C's life and health once his halo was removed. Words cannot describe all of the emotions surrounding this big day. It was definitely the close of one long chapter and the beginning of a new one for all of us in so many ways. The surgery itself was very minor and only took 15 minutes. They didn't even need to... (more)

Long time...no blog  by Lori Lynn
Hi there,   I'm so sorry I haven't posted to this blog in SO long.  I have LOTS of excuses: My husband has been recovering from a torn achilles tendon, and then LOTS of complications from that. I got a work-at-home part-time job, so it's been a challenge trying to squeeze and extra 20 hours out of my week. I've been writing reviews for theTOS Homeschool Crew on my other blog, and that has kept me very busy in all that extra time. My camera will not allow me... (more)

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT  by KatPat
Been writing a novel for *years* that seems to have finally jumped one hoop, at least, and made the cut for an American-Idol-type contest for Christian speculative fiction.  Top 3 vote-getters will receive the editor's attention -- that is, he'll read the manuscripts and consider them for publication. If you come across this blog before the 13th of November 2009, then please go to the Anomaly chatboard and sign up as soon as possible.  It can be found at http://wherethemapends.proboards.com/index.cgi? That's Step One.  I'll tell you Step Two next weekend when the voting begins, but get this fiddley bit out of the way... (more)

A New Crew Review from Bright Ideas Press  by Lori Lynn
  Several weeks ago   Bright Ideas Press  provided me with a free copy of All American History Volume I to test and use in order to write this review.  When I received it I was a little worried.  Other than Math, I don't buy curriculum.  All American History seemd to be very curriculum-y.  I thought that I definitely would not like this.  I love creating my own unit studies.  I love reading a great book to the boys and finding cool activities to do around what we've read.  As I looked at a thick hard-back history book, a thick student activity book,... (more)

Sense and Sensibility...  by Becca Danielle
Please do not send me private messages unless I give you permission. I will NOT add anyone as a friend who asks to be my friend in a private message. thank you! And if you want to link back to me, click on my button on the sidebar. ****************************************** Marianne Dashwood--a romantic, poetic, young lady who is easily swayed by any man who can recite poetry with feeling. In the movie sense and sensiblity, we meet this young lady and immediately love her. We know she always has best intentions at heart, and she loves her family more than anything in the... (more)

Writer's Block, Homeschool Skedtrack, Curriculum  by Deborah D
I'm watching my youngest son right now trying to juggle three little bags of skittles. The look on his face alone is priceless. I love cheap thrills. Hesitantly, I thought I would start to fill in the gap of the last few months of silence. I guess I struggle with going that long and not blogging. Part of  the time I wrestle with a terrible bout of "writers block" lately. While the rest of the time, I'm just trying to find the time to sit down to do it. I hate that. Especially because it's something that I love doing so... (more)

I is sooooooooo sorry is so late!  by Jessica
I am updating real quick cause I's have to go watch a movie but I is still alive! Jessica   ... (more)

It's been a while...I know  by Timothy
Surprise! Yes, I am still alive and kicking. Once again I do not have a really good reason for being away for so long. Work has been pretty hectic but that is really not a good reason. Although as result of the craziness at work, I must admit, my moods have been on a bumpy road. I won’t go into details but let’s just say they are times when I wonder what I was thinking! As I mentioned in an earlier post though, I have no one to blame but myself. I am thinking though it will start improving in... (more)

Review: Voices of a Distant Star  by Trixie Prower
Review: Voices of a Distant Star English Title: Voices of a Distant Star Synonyms: Hoshi no Koe Type: OVA Episodes: 1 Status: Finished Airing Aired: Feb 2, 2002 Producers: Shinkai Makoto, ADV Films Genres: Drama, Mecha, Romance, Sci-Fi Duration: 25 min. per episode Rating: PG-13 - Teens 13 or older Story: 5/10 Noboru and Mikako are two students who are madly in love, on a futuristic planet. Mikako’s grades are very good, and as a result, she was accepted to be launched into space alone. Both of them exchange cell phone text, but as she drifts further and further away in space, it takes longer and longer for her emails... (more)

Some thoughts I had on LOTR, Two Towers  by Gandalf, Eowyn, Pippin, Arwen, Merry, Samwise, Frodo, Celebrain, Haldir, Gimli, Aragorn and Alatariel
Hello, For one I am sorry I have not written an entry in so long. But here I am writting one now! So just recently I finnished The Two Towers and I had some little thoughts about one part near the end. I would love to hear any thoughts that y'all might have too! So here are mine- "But you haven't put yourself forward; you've been put forward. And as for not being the right and proper person, why, Mr.Frodo wasn't, as you might say, nor Mr. Bilbo. They didn't choose themselves." -quote by Samwise (From the last chapter in The Two Towers)   And well that just... (more)

Fall Trees  by Kimalita
A few trees from our neighborhood......aren't they beautiful?    ... (more)

TX army base shooting  by Sheilla Kiwi
Hey everyone! I just wanted to let ya all know to be praying. In a Texas army base one of OUR men (and possibly a couple others) attacked and killed many. I'm not sure what details are but I'm sure if you look on the news it won't be too hard to find. So just be praying for everyone there and those who have loved ones there! Thanks. God bless, Sheilla Kiwi ... (more)

I have been blessed with an ugly printer...  by Diane
 Some days seem more productive than others I guess and today I actually felt like I have gotten quite allot accomplished..However the house looks like a tornado went through.    Had an eye Dr appointment today for one of the boys and I couldn't believe the price of the exam- glasses...  When he told me " These frames are $9.00  frames, then I can get you lenses for $29.00" I looked at him with my mouth hanging open trying not to look as stupid as I felt yesterday... I said " I'm sorry I didn't hear you... How much are they... (more)

my playlist  by kaylin
... (more)

Review: Azumanga Daioh  by Trixie Prower
Review: Azumanga Daioh English Title: Azumanga Daioh: The Animation Synonyms: Azumanga Daiou Type: TV Series Episodes: 26 Status: Finished Airing Aired: Apr 8, 2002 to Sep 30, 2002 Producers: J.C. Staff, GENCO, Lantis, Imagica, ADV Films Genres: Comedy, School, Slice of Life Duration: 24 min. per episode Rating: PG-13 - Teens 13 or older Story: 5/10 Chiyo is the youngest of her grade, and is a prodigy for schoolwork. All the high school girls flock around her cause she’s little and very cute, they all become friends very quickly, and spend time together. Azumanga Daioh is about high school life, friends, summer, and fun times among the girls.   There really... (more)

The CHK Network Thanksgiving Planner is Available!  by Sylvia
The Christian Homekeeper Network Thanksgiving Planner is now available.  Head over to CHKNetwork and get yours. The Christian Homekeeper Thanksgiving Planner By far the most common comment I have received is that the planner allows you to get everything ready without stressing and doesn't keep you in the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day!  ... (more)

"Please Mom?"  by Amy
That is what mom hears when I find another free download of a photoshop program. So far, I have Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0 (yes, it is really old...) and Jasc Paint Shop Pro 8 (another older version), Adobe's Artweaver, and now Picasa. The other day I found out what neat things Google's Picasa can do. So I downloaded it. (if you do download it, be warned that it can be a headache and you might end up reinstalling it because you did it all wrong...) Probably my favorite feature is the handy "collage" button. You select the photos, and... (more)

*Sighs* what else is new?  by MollyluvsHarryPotter
I hate it,but also love it,when Hawthorne is sad.Hawthorne looking at God.(Yes.He is a Christian.)He looks like he's gonna attack someone! HIDE! That's it for now.Hawthorne,YOU ROCK!!!! ... (more)

lyrics to one of my fave songs...and yes...it is FF5!!!  by Whazzup
I'd take a bullet for you Bleed all my blood out for you Be taken hostage, under the knife's edge Pay all the ransom for you Do the hard time for you On the front lines for you Bring on the pain, the ball and chain Be executed for you [Pre Chorus:] I'll cover for you, take a hit I'm your alibi I got your back I'm living every day just to die [Chorus:] Every day I die for you Throw me in the fire, I'd walk right through I made a promise, it's an I-O-U I'd D-I-E for Y-O-U I'd D-I-E for Y-O-U I'd D-I-E for Y-O-U I'd die for you, die, D-I-E for you I'd D-I-E, I'd die for... (more)

its been to long  by Whazzup
sorry that i havn't posted in a while.......but i will make up for that..........hello people how are you out there in the vast, vast world??? i am fine, not great or even good just fine, and really really bored.......so........i'll write again soon. ... (more)

Thanksgiving Craft (take one)  by Michelle
John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." The kids and I worked on a Thanksgiving craft the other day.  Let's just say we'll be doing another one soon!  lol  It did NOT work out like I thought in my head.  The turkey came out looking more like a potato, or a reindeer, than a turkey!  LOL  Oh well.  I traced their feet for the turkey body (turned upside down), and then their hands were the feathers. ... (more)

Fresh fruit.  by godzwilla
Hello,     I'm sorry I've been a lousy blogger, I just don't know what to write about (: |) But anyways, I will try and try and absolutely one-hundred percent amen try. So what to write, what to write...well.......MANGOS! PINEAPPLES! BANANAS! LEMONS! LIMES! BUTTER!  Woohoo for food! FRENCH FRIES! TOMATOES! CRANBERRY SAUCE! >>>>Random.Potatoes.Rock.Your.Socks<<<< I ♥LOVE♥ Victoria! She's my bestie forever! Time for pics! Of both of us! ... (more)

Fall Impressionism  by Cheryl in MA
My 5yo told me she wanted to paint fall pictures.  She wanted to paint colorful leaves and trees and scenes from nature.  After a bit it seemed best that I draw a few simple pencil sketches for her to paint because she was having a hard time getting the paint to do what she wanted and was getting quickly frustrated.  So we started with some leaves. Next I drew a tree for her and showed her how she could make the tree have many leaves by just using dots and dabs of paint.  First I did up an example and while... (more)

A little Better!  by CubanPrincess
 My sister is doing well! She is a little better today, still a klogged nose, but better. PRAISE GOD!!   But now my mom is sick!! GRRRRR!!!  Pray that she will get better soon!! Thanks!! ... (more)

ECMT #2  by mlilly
While stopped in Blacksburg we got to hold a balled python after breakfast. In the midst of our leaving we drove around Virginia Tech and prayed for the campus. We then headed toward Purcelville, VA. In Purcelville we had a one day workshop (we were going to return later in the trip) and we gave the first two of three Bible studies for the first time. While we were giving the study on of the people attending the workshop summed up our entire two studies in less than five minutes, so we just expanded on what this person said. We... (more)

ECMT part 2  by Solomon
September 17th-23rd Aaahhh training camp. Personally for me it was getting up at 5 a.m. and going to bed close to 11 p.m. that really struck me as hard. On the first day we picked up Hannah Poch, Sarah Harada, and Chris Kelly. All the members in order of age on the trip are as follows: Mr. Brown, Mrs. Brown, Amber Redmond, Courtney Brown, Chris Kelly, Madison Lilly, Sarah Harada, Emily Brown, Hannah Poch, myself, and Rachel Brown. The next morning we started the official training camp which went six days. After approximately 48-52 hours of bible study, several hours of... (more)

a twist on menu planning  by Jennifer
Our first week home has been busy. We are all still catching up from the time change. This morning we all slept in, then had breakfast for lunch- yummy pancakes. Our menu planning for the next month has a nice twist. The upcoming 4H cookery contest is open to all ages, which means even Joseph gets to participate. My girls both have favorite foods they like to prepare, so we have been planning which categories their recipes will fit into. (They can each prepare up tp four entries.) Judging is Dec. 10th, so between now and then the kids get... (more)

Review: Grave of the Fireflies  by Trixie Prower
Review: Grave of the Fireflies English Title: Grave of the Fireflies Synonyms: Hotaru No Haka, Tombstone for Fireflies Type: Movie Episodes: 1 Status: Finished Airing Aired: Apr 15, 1988 Producers: Studio Ghibli, ADV Films, Central Park Media Genres: Drama, Historical Duration: 1 hr. 30 min. Rating: PG-13 - Teens 13 or older Story: 8/10 World War 2 is going on, and Seita and his four-year-old sister Setsuko loose their mother to an air raid. Setsuko tries desperately to care for his younger sister, waiting for his father to return from war, but he is young and inexperienced, and is being forced into becoming a man way too soon.   Everything in it... (more)

David Crowder Band "Rockumentary" Lol!  by CubanPrincess
. This is DCB making fun of dumb "Rockumentaries"! It's funny! CP ... (more)

Hey People!  by Emily
We've been sooooooooo(ect.) busy! Much has been going on. In October we had a bit of excitement, we had a couple neighbors visit us, sadly they had to go home after we found out what house they belong to.   Then, in the end of October we went to Oregon for over a week, we all got swine flu, (not fun) we had to cancel some places we were going to go to, wich is a disapointment. We went home a day early, got home on (I think,,,) the 1st of November, stayed one day at home, the next day went to the... (more)

Butterscoth Recipe and My Apologies  by prplhrtwife
First off, thank you for the kind compliments and concern over the recipe not being posted on time. I am a full time volunteer helping wounded, post-traumatic stress disorder, and traumatic brain injury veterans.  As you can imagine, my Thursday and Friday became VERY busy with what happened at Fort Hood and the following day in Orlando.  Our families prayers go out to each and every person affected by both of these tragedies.  So in an effort to finally get you the recipe today, I have shunned the news until I did it! :) Here it is.....homemade Butterscotch! If there's one thing homeschoolers... (more)

Here we go  by Hannah
Here are the rules: Put your ipod(mp3) in shuffle,and then read each question. Answer every question with the title of the song that is playing at the time you read the question. Use the answer to the very last question as the title of this entry.No cheating!!!!! Here we go! 1. How would you describe yourself? What dreams are made of 2.What do your friends think of you? He lives in you 3. What do you think about very often?  Unwritten 4. What do your parents think of you? When you wish upon a star 5. What do you want to be when you grow up?... (more)

Ribbons  by Caity
Here's more rabbit awards. ... (more)

Party Post III: The Grand Event  by Dell
  Kaira was a very excited princess when the big day finally arrived.  We were were joined by Lady Beverly, Sir Richard, the Bowman James, Lady Lorelle, the beautiful princess Kaitlyn, and the delightful jester Sirhc!  The games were underway when the Royal executioner showed up, escorting a servant girl he had found fleeing the Manor of Lord S and Lady K.  The servant girl threw herself to the ground and begged the princess for mercy, and the executioner inquired what should be done with the servant, who was no doubt an accomplice in helping the Lord and Lady escape.  Kaira... (more)

Moving right along...  by Bethany
Wow! So I completely forgot that I had this blog. But now that I have remembered I will be blogging it up! Oh, and I'm going to try to keep this as exciting as possible. No one likes a boring blog, so this blog won't be boring. I have been thinking a lot about going to public school. I have never attended classes before so I don't know what it would be like. But I think it would be so exciting! Ya see, I have been hanging out at my local high school lately. And I like it. It's fun, and filled with... (more)

Trophy pic <3  by Caity
Here's a pic of all my rabbit trophies. ... (more)

Review: Air the Movie  by Trixie Prower
Review: Air the Movie English Title: Air the Movie Synonyms: Gekijouban Air Type: Movie Episodes: 1 Status: Finished Airing Aired: Feb 5, 2005 Producers: Toei Animation, Frontier Works, Key, Visual Art’s, ADV Films, FUNimation Entertainment Genres: Drama, Romance, Supernatural Duration: 1 hr. 31 min. Rating: PG-13 - Teens 13 or older Story: 6/10 Yukito, the traveling puppeteer, takes a train and arrives at a beach. He, unexpectedly runs into a young enthusiastic girl who has hopes of finishing her summer project, he gets drafted into it. And as time goes on, she falls in love with him, and he struggles with this from being used to being alone for so... (more)

Beanie Weenies Video Ok  by floridasunsets
It's time to change the video at the top of my blog, so my darling  daughter asks me to post the "Beanie Weenie" video from the Skit Guys. How could I resist? So, I said, "Okay." And she said, "Okay." And I said, "Okay." And she said, "Okay." And I said, "Okay." And she said, "Okay." And...just watch the video. You'll understand. ... (more)

Lauren here!  by The Inklings
just wanted to let you guys know, that I posted on the inklings main blog :D   And BTW, Speacil thanks to Bethy, for the best *birthday party on the computer* I have ever had!   Lauren ... (more)

I don't have a title for my new story yet :D  by The Inklings
I stood at the gate, watching her go by. I wish I could come with her. I probably looked a sad sight, standing with tears rolling down my face, with more tears marks on my face already. As the little girl skipped past the gate, I looked in her eyes to see, eternal happiness. Her happiness was like no other. Her eyes glimmered with hope, faith, and something strange I have never seen in my life. �@ As she went away, she left a sparkling path after her. I wish I could climb over the gate and walk on the path she left.... (more)

Life is like a dogsled team. If you ain't the lead dog the scenery never changes.  by Caity
So, life has been pretty great recently. I had tons of fun today at 4-H Fall Fest. I hung out with my BFF, Tori and my friend John. Both super cool and fun people. I met this girl from Wales! Like the country on Great Britian! It was so cool! She had the accent and everything! She talked like they do too. Like with the words us Americans never use. Like "appauled" and "suppose". Why did we stop using those words? I think we should start using them again. I'm gonna start! Comment if you're gonna start too. There was... (more)

Not going to be posting much!  by Anna
I'm not going to be posting really at all this month, because we found out my Nana is having surgery on the 18th of november :D ( My little sisters b -day) And me and my family ( On my mom's side) Will be doing Thanksgiving a week and a half early, because of the surgery, and we'll be having a birthday party on the 14 ( My nanas birthday) For me and my Nana, and my sister, and my uncle, and we'll be having Thanksgiving on the same day, at the same time,... WEW, busy day :D So, theres that :D   Love, Anna... (more)

Sleep over and seeing Nancy Rue!!  by no
Hi! Last night Dana and Audrey had a sleepover!!! Dana and I made earrings and all of us made tie pillows!! We watched the " Agent Cody Banks" movie (I hadn't seen it b4)!! Audrey got a bit slap happy at bed time but other than that we had A LOT of FUN!! Today Dana, Mom and I went and saw Nancy Rue in Grand Rapids!! I had a lot of FUN =)!!!! ... (more)

stomach ache.  by Al
im so tired again. like im unbelievably tired. but thats probably because nicole had a 7:50am game this morning in Vancouver so we had to get up at like.. 6 to get there in time. and i was up ALL night reading When It Happens by Susan Colasanti. best. book. ever. like seriously ive been taking it everywhere so i have it to read if something happens like. i get bored.. i keep thinking its like almost 3pm-ish. but its not even noon yet. that's the only good part about getting up early - the day lasts longer. but i only... (more)