tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50295450045542736862024-03-13T14:53:47.962-07:00HOME GROWN MINDHomeschooling. Exploring and documenting the modern homeschool lifestyle. Simple. Modern. Homemade. LifestyleAlexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-79791166813936053202011-04-20T16:22:00.000-07:002011-04-20T16:29:50.961-07:00365 Days Project: Book Club 01<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Od98Hn8182s/Ta9ow3G78AI/AAAAAAAABXE/i7a9TwOVqBw/s1600/PIGS6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Od98Hn8182s/Ta9ow3G78AI/AAAAAAAABXE/i7a9TwOVqBw/s400/PIGS6.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: auto;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUnBuPLSjGo/Ta9pL9cXwnI/AAAAAAAABXk/-pen7MjDHi0/s1600/PIGS12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUnBuPLSjGo/Ta9pL9cXwnI/AAAAAAAABXk/-pen7MjDHi0/s400/PIGS12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lw8c1rSQan0/Ta9pUm0Lh4I/AAAAAAAABXo/FWIaXICutYY/s1600/PIGS13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lw8c1rSQan0/Ta9pUm0Lh4I/AAAAAAAABXo/FWIaXICutYY/s400/PIGS13.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-55355501551822743762011-04-16T21:54:00.000-07:002011-04-16T22:51:20.288-07:00A Wonderful World<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia, 'bookman old style', 'palatino linotype', 'book antiqua', palatino, 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, 'avante garde', 'century gothic', 'comic sans ms', times, 'times new roman', serif;">"There are no seven wonders of the world in the eyes of a child. There are seven million." ~Walt Streightiff</span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyiisvyc158/TapvpWXQyiI/AAAAAAAABV0/ws-MBHB3JOk/s1600/edit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyiisvyc158/TapvpWXQyiI/AAAAAAAABV0/ws-MBHB3JOk/s400/edit2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me at the beach.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PP9Q0u9ccfg/TapvsIq4zxI/AAAAAAAABWE/PGmbuUxv4NU/s1600/edit9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PP9Q0u9ccfg/TapvsIq4zxI/AAAAAAAABWE/PGmbuUxv4NU/s320/edit9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister and I eating wild berries.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I grew up belly pressed to the earth, drinking from the creek. My backyard was not fenced. I trailed at my sister's heels chasing snakes in the field. When I would stumble upon a tree house in the woods, countless hours would melt away. The world around us was our playground. I would wander so far from home that my little heart would pound vigorously as I would run back for supper.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDNZq1spTQU/TapvoQZUoBI/AAAAAAAABVw/R6kQUjK0fKc/s1600/edit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDNZq1spTQU/TapvoQZUoBI/AAAAAAAABVw/R6kQUjK0fKc/s320/edit1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in my childhood backyard.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Twenty years later, things are different and the world around my children is no longer a playground. They will not ride for miles on their bike or stumble upon a tree in the wilderness and spend weeks converting it into a tree house. Their world is full of danger and legalities that often keep them from its wonders.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPMQr8dim9A/TapvqBxVwJI/AAAAAAAABV4/IBpTs2EGneM/s1600/edit4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPMQr8dim9A/TapvqBxVwJI/AAAAAAAABV4/IBpTs2EGneM/s200/edit4.jpg" width="136" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In a tree house with my father.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>As a parent, I find it challenging to give my children an environment to safely explore and release energy. Children have so much energy and parents face the challenge of keeping them active in today's confined world. Backyards, especially in Arizona, are gridded out with little left for discovery. A hidden spot to explore is less likely in the perfectly sectioned rectangle blocked out behind most homes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me eating picked berries</td></tr>
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With our backyard now carrying the modern "torch of independent play" our goal is to transform it into a place where discovery and imagination consume hours of the day. The first project I want to share is our swing-set.<br />
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Our swing-set, found via craigslist on the cheap, was worn down and missing parts. The most important aspect was the well maintained slide and rock mountain. The wood was sanded, the structure painted, segments added, and a roof mounted. It is a rather impressive swing-set that fits into almost every budget when combined with effort.<br />
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The structure towers from our backyard, beckoning my children to it when we pull into our driveway. Our boys monitor the neighborhood from its platform and hide treasures under its stairs. I look forward to many more backyard projects to inspire exploration and will be keeping you posted.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our swing-set. Features: slide, two swings, rope and rod ladder, hanging rope , rock mountain, slanted ladder climber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-75512069591400024602011-04-14T22:42:00.000-07:002011-04-15T08:05:32.635-07:00Sneak Peak: Family Portrait Session<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZc8HzhBvRc/TafXKM_eNOI/AAAAAAAABVE/01m67CDZjlU/s1600/IMG_2140awatermark.com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZc8HzhBvRc/TafXKM_eNOI/AAAAAAAABVE/01m67CDZjlU/s400/IMG_2140awatermark.com.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
My late night weekend plans are as follows: 1.) Get an affordable wine from Trader Joes 2.) Curl up on the couch with the laptop and edit this family portrait session.<br />
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Things you should know about this sneak peak: 1.) Yes, she really is unbearably cute 2.) This little beauty is bursting at the seams with personality. Thank you for a wonderful session, these pictures will be fun to edit!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRtet_W78XY/TafXX7OCikI/AAAAAAAABVI/VSjVT-xcQkc/s1600/IMG_2146acrispwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MRtet_W78XY/TafXX7OCikI/AAAAAAAABVI/VSjVT-xcQkc/s400/IMG_2146acrispwatermark.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R93RY4SJF8Y/TafZbJZyG0I/AAAAAAAABVY/GyjPRFw4QiU/s1600/IMG_2255rwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R93RY4SJF8Y/TafZbJZyG0I/AAAAAAAABVY/GyjPRFw4QiU/s400/IMG_2255rwatermark.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nna6D1JUFHI/TafZUfmb37I/AAAAAAAABVU/8mubjx2G_a0/s1600/IMG_2231awatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nna6D1JUFHI/TafZUfmb37I/AAAAAAAABVU/8mubjx2G_a0/s640/IMG_2231awatermark.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-36859365632998616172011-04-11T09:03:00.000-07:002011-04-14T12:55:16.882-07:00Fruit of the Spirit Trees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7X_bffbMmo/Tac2MsH9s4I/AAAAAAAABUs/lCyCZ16BVuk/s1600/tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f7X_bffbMmo/Tac2MsH9s4I/AAAAAAAABUs/lCyCZ16BVuk/s320/tree.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>There are so many ways to develop good character in children. The trick is finding something that works well for your family and being consistent with it.<br />
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It seems natural that in order to make good character "grow" in children, one needs to "water" and nurture the good character traits daily. Every child is different. There are different traits that come naturally to each child, and there are usually absent traits that require seeds to be planted in order to grow.<br />
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When I ask parents how they discipline, a response begins to roll off their tongue in under ten seconds. Many have invested a great deal of time and research on the topic of discipline. Parents are eager to share their books and successful discipline methods with me. If I ask how they encourage good character in their children, it takes them a moment to realize their method of character building. It seems that a lot of parents build good character but do not take conscience note of their efforts or design plans for their methods. I do not want to make light of discipline in any way, discipline is crucial in raising healthy individuals. However, I do believe it is important to invest time into the tactics of developing good character.<br />
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I find that "growing" good character does not come as naturally as "weeding" out bad character. It is easy to notice bad traits such as whining or aggression. It seems less obvious to notice a display of self-control or faithfulness. As parents, we all want our children to be good, joyful, kind, patient, loving, gentle, self-controlling, faithful, and peaceful people. However, often times we forget to tell our children our views of good character. We discipline them when they fail to meet our expectations. Isn't planting seeds in a garden as important as ridding it of weeds? I should think so, when good fruit is in hope.<br />
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I have put much thought into character development this year. I have devoted Fridays to character building. However, it still seems like a constant challenge to remember to nurture good character daily.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYj-VSvGNQ/Tac1yXmXE2I/AAAAAAAABUk/P-STtdh176k/s1600/IMG_1913a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbYj-VSvGNQ/Tac1yXmXE2I/AAAAAAAABUk/P-STtdh176k/s200/IMG_1913a.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VM2Ssy0j56M/Tac3hAP9cyI/AAAAAAAABU4/Mb04YRrUuys/s1600/IMG_2334a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></div>Alas, we developed a successful system and daily reminder. We made Fruit of the Spirit trees. I made a template of the fruit of the spirit as referenced in the Bible: goodness, joy, kindness, patience, love, gentleness, self-control, faithfulness, and peace. This scripture was a perfect fit for our family and our hopes for their character. Some families may choose to use a different reference or list of virtues. I have uploaded my <a href="http://alexandratreat.viewbook.com/album/postersscripture?p=1#4">template</a> to the <a href="http://alexandratreat.viewbook.com/homegrown_mind/the_download_site">download site</a> to share with families.<br />
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I printed a copy for each of my children on a different color of paper. I cut out the pieces and applied the words to wood tags using modge podge. The children glued faux floral branches into a small pot and filled the pot with stones for anchor weight. (The stones seem rather poetic in representation of a stable foundation) Their first initial was glued to the outside of the pot.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VM2Ssy0j56M/Tac3hAP9cyI/AAAAAAAABU4/Mb04YRrUuys/s1600/IMG_2334a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VM2Ssy0j56M/Tac3hAP9cyI/AAAAAAAABU4/Mb04YRrUuys/s320/IMG_2334a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As a family, we discussed the fruit of the spirit. Throughout the week we give a tag when we notice the specific fruitful trait in the child. As parents, our goal is to aid each child in gaining each fruit tag every week. On Sunday we take the fruit down from the trees and reflect upon the moments that lead to each fruit. I must stress that the activity is intended to be positive for the children and not meant to focus on any lacking fruits.<br />
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Sometimes it takes a great effort to "plant" seeds in order to help a child receive a specific tag. The trees ultimately stand as a reminder for us to work on each trait weekly with our children. It may take an entire day of "gardening" to aid a child in receiving a certain tag. Our children love seeing their fruitful trees each day and we know they understand our character expectations.Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-67452477023832498852011-04-08T21:33:00.000-07:002011-04-08T21:38:33.931-07:00Cooking up CurriculumHomeschool life can be a challenge. Among many random duties, the teacher doubles as a short order cook. Lately, we have been incorporating education into the kitchen atmosphere. Tonight, I am dishing up a few concepts I found on the web:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEOswphzCaQ/TZ_glGNspDI/AAAAAAAABUY/iuLnXW_gjk4/s1600/pancakepost1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEOswphzCaQ/TZ_glGNspDI/AAAAAAAABUY/iuLnXW_gjk4/s400/pancakepost1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><a href="http://momsurbanfarmhouse.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainbow-pancakes-home-made-syrup.html">Urban Farmhouse and Rainbow Pancakes</a>: Urban Farmhouse shared a homemade rainbow pancake and syrup recipe. We borrowed the concept using Trader Joes Multigrain Pancake Mix and food dye. We combined the cooking with a lesson on color mixing/combination. This has become a favorite meal in our home. The boys have graduated from creating purple, green, and orange to creating turquise, aqua, or tie-dye pancakes.<br />
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<a href="http://teachmama.com/2010/07/math-in-kitchen-with-veggie-kabob.html">Teach Mama and Pattern Shish Kabobs</a>: I am looking forward to making pattern kabobs introduced by Teach Mama. Using either fruit or vegetables to create a pattern on a skewer! What a clever way to prep for meal time during school hours!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFiXgEuA32g/TZ_gz8SCPrI/AAAAAAAABUg/rM80JoXbn4Q/s1600/pancakepost2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.accreditedonlinecolleges.com/blog/2010/kitchen-chemistry-100-cool-food-science-experiments-for-kids-and-cooks/">Kitchen Chemistry: 100 Cool Food Science Experiments for Kids:</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"> Alvina Lopez shares the most helpful link list for Kitchen Science. The ice cream experiment has us actually looking forward to a blistering hot day to welcome the activity.</span><br />
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</i></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black; font-size: x-small;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Photos: We had this handsome little guest in our home the first time we made rainbow pancakes. He was dressed perfectly for the meal!</i></div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-38309565953291702382011-04-04T21:15:00.000-07:002011-04-04T21:33:18.541-07:00Spring Portraiture in Bloom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxNS9OVHt8M/TZqbJ4H89jI/AAAAAAAABUI/4HcqrRykP6A/s1600/honey3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PxNS9OVHt8M/TZqbJ4H89jI/AAAAAAAABUI/4HcqrRykP6A/s400/honey3.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> I have not been keeping up with my former photography blog, in effort to simplify my life, I will be combining my photo life onto this blog. This little one stopped by last week and welcomed the arrival of spring time with me and my lens. Can you believe this petite beauty is an entire year old?<br />
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</div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-91109652396426892032011-02-19T11:13:00.000-08:002011-04-03T20:34:33.523-07:00Etsy for Education<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_i4WgOveGk0/TWAXGBan8iI/AAAAAAAABSE/syAdmE9u7Q8/s1600/il_570xN.215296752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_i4WgOveGk0/TWAXGBan8iI/AAAAAAAABSE/syAdmE9u7Q8/s200/il_570xN.215296752.jpg" width="200" /></a>The internet is a main resource for many modern homeschool families. Lesson plans, research, educational videos, prints, are among the countless homeschool materials that one can acquire through a google search. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> is a growing resource for educational items. The site offers many handmade educational items ranging from toys to wall art. The majority of <b>educational</b> items sold on etsy are usually geared at children 0-6 years of age. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mothers in all seasons of life appear to dominate the etsy educational selling market. Many sellers open their etsy shop because their items have proven to be a success with their own children. New items are added hourly, the concepts are limitless. Etsy-loving homeschool moms also use the site as a source of inspiration for future projects.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-udXLdQerZ98/TWAXV0CgfnI/AAAAAAAABSI/aI8o5KrwSnI/s1600/il_570xN.217962369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-udXLdQerZ98/TWAXV0CgfnI/AAAAAAAABSI/aI8o5KrwSnI/s200/il_570xN.217962369.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Felt is the material of choice with an abundant of educational shops offering a variety of felt based items. The eco-friendly handmade toys pictured are by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/evgie?ref=seller_info">Evgie</a> from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/evgie?ref=seller_info">Play to Learn</a>. She hand embroiders the stuffed learning toys. The is such structure in her formation. My whimsical technique will keep her items safe from my "<a href="http://homegrownmind.blogspot.com/2011/02/one-mothers-trash-is-another-mothers.html#comments">idea-lifting</a>" ways. Her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68292230/counting-toys-one-dozen-eggs">one dozen eggs</a> counting toy is worth squealing over and would brighten any basket this spring.<br />
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</div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-32569707775387591042011-02-17T20:40:00.000-08:002011-04-03T20:35:09.035-07:00One Mother's Trash, Another Mother's Treasure....<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u61fWcolxLs/TV31dh7YjoI/AAAAAAAABO4/QkvcquM9oJ4/s1600/IMG_9700a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u61fWcolxLs/TV31dh7YjoI/AAAAAAAABO4/QkvcquM9oJ4/s320/IMG_9700a.jpg" width="212" /></a>I thrift. I garage sale. I even pick things out of bulk trash. Yes, if I do not know where you live, chances are you could come over for supper to find the table you left on the curb under your dinner plate.<br />
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This afternoon I ran an errand and I happened upon a child sized pink piano in a bulk trash pile. I knocked on the front door to verify that it was trash. Indeed! One leg was broken and the boys and I replaced them with ikea furniture legs we had in the garage. It still needs some fresh paint and whitening on a few keys. Any suggestions on how to de-yellow those keys?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;">THRIFT FOR THOUGHT</span>:</b></span><br />
The majority of our income, after mortgage/utilities, we spend on groceries. I try to buy mostly organic meat, dairy, and produce. Our snack cupboard is filled with <a href="http://www.traderjoes.com/">Trader Joe</a> brands. I shop healthy, but am not on some mission to keep the kids process food free. I embrace Costco hot dogs and pizza like it is a requirement when shopping at the store.<br />
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However, the hefty grocery bill I use to justify my reasons as to why I love turning trash into treasure. I think paying full price for furniture might actually kill me.<br />
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I have two <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp">Anthropologie</a> gift cards burning a hole in my pocket. It is my favorite store, but I am afraid, the moment I use the gift cards, I will find the item used or learn how to make it myself. Yes, I rob ideas from Anthropologie. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> your not safe from my idea stealing either.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjEPhiaSgZM/TV31nKDJIhI/AAAAAAAABPE/cMuaZC-Bdf4/s1600/IMG_9721a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjEPhiaSgZM/TV31nKDJIhI/AAAAAAAABPE/cMuaZC-Bdf4/s320/IMG_9721a.jpg" width="320" /></a>I actually prefer the term "borrowing" when using a found idea. I harbor no guilt on the matter because I won't ever sell the borrowed concept. Although, "stealing" seems more honest when I am swimming in compliments upon the completed project.<br />
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</div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-84482082610427553522011-02-16T20:51:00.000-08:002011-04-10T09:37:49.559-07:00Is it Cool to Be in School?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8G5SJzv8RY/TZS_0qUsKMI/AAAAAAAABTw/UjKKVAbKKT8/s1600/school2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8G5SJzv8RY/TZS_0qUsKMI/AAAAAAAABTw/UjKKVAbKKT8/s200/school2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I love our homeschool space. My kindergartener gets pretty pumped about working in the room. But, my younger children are just not ready for that amount of structure. I imagine it is easier to birthday wrap a live duck than to keep the under three crowd back there (and out of trouble) for 2.5 hours.<br />
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I am working on making a play corner in the connecting room. My sister-in-law converted her stairway closet into play area for her youngest child. She revealed the concept to me as being very effective in the success of educating her older children. I am learning that a variety of homeschool households use this method.<br />
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In the meantime, I am embracing the idea of doing our lessons in the rest of the house. It is easier to keep tabs on the whole crew. Also, Tad did not hide in his closet and polish off a box of cereal like yesterday. Currently, it is most successful and the whole family seems in brighter spirits.<br />
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I am considering converting an armoire into a kitchen homeschool storage cabinet. I have also met a number of families who do not use a distinctive place in their home to conduct school. These parents exclaim their methods work best for their immediate stage of life.<br />
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Both methods appeal to me and I am wondering if there are any homeschool families who have mastered using both methods in their home. I would love to hear about these and other successful methods, please contact us to share your concepts and remember, pictures are always an A+.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><i>P<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">hoto above: Tad and his coyote hat. We are doing a desert unit. For this project we used scrap fabric, cardstock, googlie eyes, and faux leather cut from an old checkbook cover. The boys howled like coyotes until bedtime. This photo was taken at 11a.m. Bedtime is at 8p.m.</span></i></span><br />
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</div></div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-16384258497131330142011-02-15T20:40:00.000-08:002011-02-20T08:17:56.159-08:00There should be a height requirement for kindergarten....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g6FT5xfBFZI/TV7n5oiw-vI/AAAAAAAABRI/UiwvVqeqc0w/s1600/IMG_9573fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g6FT5xfBFZI/TV7n5oiw-vI/AAAAAAAABRI/UiwvVqeqc0w/s320/IMG_9573fall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I am climbing down from my homeschool high a little bit this week. I am trying to put in a full 2.5 hours with Elijah. Tad keeps sneaking away and raiding the kitchen cupboards. Aria is back in the homeschool space (eating markers and slapping paint brushes out of her brothers hand) OR she is out trying to climb on the kitchen table. I am puzzled as to how other people homeschool with children as close in age as my own. Really are there others out there with three as young as mine and pulling this off with their mind in tact?Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-88377246654841730102011-02-14T21:42:00.000-08:002011-02-17T21:52:37.388-08:00Happy Valentines!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had a festive day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zvjaE4NcpB4/TV4G_DtVEVI/AAAAAAAABPg/_wKeoPmtmJU/s1600/_MG_9496val.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zvjaE4NcpB4/TV4G_DtVEVI/AAAAAAAABPg/_wKeoPmtmJU/s320/_MG_9496val.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We made cupcakes. Of course "someone" went a bit too far with the sprinkles...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAqUJGzXTzo/TV4HNkeHbbI/AAAAAAAABPs/ec-Q8-FwwdU/s1600/IMG_9508val.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAqUJGzXTzo/TV4HNkeHbbI/AAAAAAAABPs/ec-Q8-FwwdU/s320/IMG_9508val.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ah, there is my little sprinkle monkey. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9zpI3CGFLo/TV4IX0YLZHI/AAAAAAAABP4/lgCQyXfgaXE/s1600/IMG_9507val2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9zpI3CGFLo/TV4IX0YLZHI/AAAAAAAABP4/lgCQyXfgaXE/s320/IMG_9507val2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPyFzRmEQs0/TV4HYCEg_qI/AAAAAAAABP0/DghtT-aLMNQ/s1600/IMG_9550val.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPyFzRmEQs0/TV4HYCEg_qI/AAAAAAAABP0/DghtT-aLMNQ/s320/IMG_9550val.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-55335928432789611852011-02-12T23:37:00.000-08:002011-02-20T18:50:02.985-08:00Spicing Up Math<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>It is challenging at times to find a lesson plan that will engage both my three and five year old. I am loving how Singapore Math begins with the roots of math concepts. Elijah, my five year old, seems to really enjoy the activity books. My three year old, Tad, is very active and requires a more hands on approach. It is working well for me, at the moment, to give Tad some free time while Elijah works on his books. This amounts to thirty minutes broken up into three ten minute breaks for Tad. I fill the rest of our home school time with lessons/activities that are fit for both boys.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4LLA-2CZE4/TVeUIAnemYI/AAAAAAAABN8/GVoGZvCfBeA/s1600/IMG_9410a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4LLA-2CZE4/TVeUIAnemYI/AAAAAAAABN8/GVoGZvCfBeA/s400/IMG_9410a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Recently we started a new routine and the boys could not enjoy it more. I took a collection of old glass spice jars, cleaned them out, and scrubbed off the labels. Next, I used a paint marker to number the jars on the top of the lid.<br />
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The boys have instruction to fill the jars with small items in quantity to the written number on the jar. I let the boys loose in the house and backyard for this task. They select the jar and we note the number on the jar together. Then, they race off and return to the home school room with the jar filled. Lastly, we count the contents and make any corrections before displaying them on our rack.<br />
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Tad often has an inaccurate amount in jars higher than the number five. However, his counting skills are improving every time we recount his filled jar. He is eager to make the corrections and receive another jar to fill. The boys are also learning space and size concepts with this activity. Everyday the jar items get more interesting. Yesterday, a doll leg was compromised by this routine.Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-38908030999549360712011-02-11T00:23:00.000-08:002011-04-08T18:56:48.138-07:00Bargain Map Alternative<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBBxLS6Lsao/TVeXrXaK0HI/AAAAAAAABOA/p_RDmb4WFA4/s1600/IMG_9397a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBBxLS6Lsao/TVeXrXaK0HI/AAAAAAAABOA/p_RDmb4WFA4/s200/IMG_9397a.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Bargain Map: I have been wanting a giant wall map for the home school room. The frustration has been that all the neat wall size maps are rather pricey. You can imagine how I jumped for joy when I found this <a href="http://www.target.com/Home-World-Map-Shower-Curtain/dp/B001C4CK4C">world map shower curtain at Target </a> for only $14.99 Score! It even has the capitals listed! I wonder if I can use dry-erase markers on it?!Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-50709769410273989212011-02-04T00:52:00.000-08:002011-04-04T21:39:15.309-07:00Martha, Martha, Martha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uffX9Tx0otE/TVebx4nWnzI/AAAAAAAABOQ/ucCiD_YdVn4/s400/IMG_9413.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
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I love<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/nature-crafts-for-kids#slide_5"> </a><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/nature-crafts-for-kids#slide_5">Martha Stewart Crafts for Kids</a>. The kids and I just added some rock pets to the home school room. We borrowed the frog concept from the <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/nature-crafts-for-kids#slide_5">Martha Stewart Website</a>. Let's just say our frogs are heavy on personality. The boys really had fun with this project.Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5029545004554273686.post-22729606259539089402011-02-01T21:59:00.000-08:002011-04-19T10:13:44.987-07:00Fresh Smelling Books and Rotten Timelines<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The kindergarten curriculum has arrived. When I noticed the first box tucked by the front door, I eagerly ripped it open with more stamina and excitement than a child on Christmas morning. I sniffed the fresh pages and thumbed through the <a href="http://www.singaporemath.com/Earlybird_Math_Standards_Ed_s/135.htm">Singapore Math Early Bird</a> books with such excitement and confidence. It was love at first sight.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Km8UKml0JQ/TVeZhFfkYpI/AAAAAAAABOE/D8USN6an_6M/s1600/IMG_9420a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Km8UKml0JQ/TVeZhFfkYpI/AAAAAAAABOE/D8USN6an_6M/s400/IMG_9420a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The concepts were great and the ease of teacher comprehension was better than anticipated. I promptly took them back to the home school room and put them among my other guidance books. Then, flipped off the light, peered at the shelf as if to say to the books, "Tomorrow I will come for you" accompanied by an evil villain laughter and hands cupped together in the plotting of a master plan. Yes, I felt confident upon the first shipment.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">A few days later, the next box arrived. The box was larger and thus my excitement greater than the prior days. I pulled it in the house like a pro, my dry morning bagel grasped by my front teeth (who has time for cream cheese with three kids, anyway), my hip served as a handy "little" shelf, and my coffee rested upon the box, while my other hand managed the door, with the other mail. All the while, I tried not to slobber as I muttered through my bagel to Tad a firm warning to stay inside and to put his pants back on.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">This box arrived via amazon and a used book seller. I tore opened the coffee splattered box, the fragrance was that of vinyl and an old stuffy closet. But that is what a fraction of the price smells like and I was all the happier for the money saved. This time the feeling of savvy-homeschool-mom washed over me as I unwrapped the bubble packaging. Then it happened.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The giant intimidating <a href="http://www.riggsinst.org/catalog.htm">Riggs Manual</a> spilled out onto the counter. I reminded myself that one should not judge a book by it's cover. I cracked open the manual and begun to read. Then I stopped and put a movie in for the kids. I felt justified in using the TV as a babysitter because I picked from the educational selection on Netflicks. How many episodes of Diego will it take before I can toss my hair back and tell people they are bilingual?<br />
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I returned to the manual and suddenly felt as though I should repeat my elementary years. I am now wondering how I slipped through the cracks not knowing half of the information in this manual. I had them all fooled. I am a fool. Really, I have got a lot to learn this year. How did I ever think I could prepare in two weeks.</div>Alexandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16204159723021626793noreply@blogger.com0