In a Galaxy....not so far away.....

Santa Visit

2011-12-15T23:17:00.000-05:00

Our first Ballet

2011-12-14T23:11:00.001-05:00

Junie B. Jones-- Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

2011-12-01T18:52:00.004-05:00

Today we went to our favorite Children's Theatre to see Junie B. Jones-- Jingle Bells, Batman Smells. Yesterday I taught the kids the Old Batman Smells song so this morning around the house and on the way to the show they were singing this song over and over!! It was cool that the director who we love was also in the show! How cool!! The staff; once again, did a great job!!!! I love good, clean comedy! Even though I know you'd have to see the entire show to fully get it this was the scene that had me chuckling a second longer than everyone else:

Exploring Charlotte Mason

2011-06-22T08:38:00.004-04:00

While I had heard the name Charlotte Mason I didn't think much about it. Through the years we've explored ABeka - School at Home, Five in Row Unit Studies, The Classical Well-Trained Mind, a little Sonlight and the list goes on. I finally decided eclectic, using a little of this and little of that is what suited us:) Two years ago we began Nature Classes with a small group of moms and several of them used Charlotte Mason. Hmmm.... what is that? One mom told me about Ambleside and how much they loved Shakespeare. At first thought of hearing this I thought well that doesn't sound like something we would enjoy. Then I began hearing more and more. This fall I joined a local CM Co-op and loved everything we were doing! Wow, this is CM. So I began more research and asked to borrow The Charlotte Mason Companion from one of the moms. I'm still reading it and will return it to her the next time we meet. More and more I love all that I learn about this approach. The mom I borrowed the book from sent me many, many wonderful links covering more about CM. I have read so much the past couple of weeks trying to break it all down and figure it out. While some of what we do already falls in line with what CM explains I want us to continue on to add more and more CM to our days:)

From reading this is my understanding so far:

Short Lessons 15-30mins
Narration
Dictation, which reinforces spelling
Transcription (Copywork)
Grammar
Free Afternoons for Handicrafts, Cooking, Gardening, Visiting lonely neighbors, Playing an instrument, Exploring nature,
Living Books (Not Textbooks expect for Math)
No "grades" or homework, this is taken care of through the lessons each day
Few Lectures

The Study areas include:

Nature Studies
Art
Music Hymns/Folksongs
Picture/Artist Study
Music Appreciation
Poetry including Shakespeare
History
Science
Math
Handicrafts
Literature

You can learn more here:

Amblesideonline--FAQ
CharlottemasonHelp
Simply Charlotte Mason
Jimmies Charlotte Mason Q & A

Another Reason I LOVE digital scrapbooking

2011-05-29T15:21:00.001-04:00

Nosoca Pines Ranch

2011-05-24T21:25:00.002-04:00

Lily Fest 2011

2011-05-16T16:23:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the first time we had ever been to Lily Fest or to Landsford Canal State Park. I must say we had a wonderful time!! The weather was perfect and everything was just so lush and green! There was a bit of a crowd but not too much, actually just enough to make it interesting I thought. We first made our way down the Nature Trail to the Spider Lily Overlook where there was a biologist answering questions and telling us more about the Canal, Spider Lilies and such.

As we were walking away someone spotted a snake that was at the bottom of a tree that Todd had been leaning against so we turned around to see what kind of snake and such. Thankfully it was harmless and was actually even getting ready to shed his skin so he could not even see us. The biologist picked the snake up, told us more about it and let the kids pet him before turning him loose again to continue on his way. After viewing the Spider lilies we proceeded on along a new trail, being on trails we’d never seen before was such a grand adventure for us.
Along the trail Tyler spotted a 13 year Cicada!!! How cool was that!! The sound was incredible down in the woods unlike anything we’d ever heard before. I was glad I had my ipod and that my camera does video so that I could capture some of this. Hard to believe these will not be seen here again for another 13 years.

As we journeyed on we bumped into some really nice people and a local camera club that was setting up to take pictures of 2 models. They enjoyed getting to have Hank also be one of there subjects and he enjoyed all the attention! One of the ladies continued to talk with us for some time and said how great it was that we homeschooled and she hopes to one day as well. Love all the positive response we always get!

Along the path we come upon so many amazing textures in the rocks and such that had once been the Canal that was used for transporting to and from Columbia. On our way back a snake flew across our path faster than I could take his picture, poor thing….We scared him far more than he scared us!
I also got to get some pictures of this rather interesting spider some sort of Fungi growing at the bottom of a tree. I still have to research to find out what this fungus was.
Oh and how could I forget the Bald Eagle and her nest!!

This was the first time we had ever seen a Bald Eagle or Nest in the Wild! It was amazing! I was wishing she was closer to us. That or to have had one of the Amazing Zoom lenses I saw while we were there. We’ve been many places such as airshows but the ones we saw here were the biggest I’d ever seen. On my wish list is one of those super zooms. I also want a 10mm for a wider landscape pic and a nicer body later. No hurry as I know there will be time for those expensive toys later. After our hike we got the $3 hot dog special and the kids played on the playground while me and Hank made the uphill hike to get the car. By the time I made it back with the car Megan had managed to slip off the monkey bars and her her ankle. She’s still limping on it today!

Elgin Podunk Festival

2011-05-14T21:49:00.000-04:00

Animal Grossology

2011-04-16T07:54:00.001-04:00

April 9, 2011 --2 Great Outdoor Events today!!

2011-04-09T21:17:00.000-04:00

Boy was today a very crazy, fun, busy day!! It began before 9 of a Saturday morning with a landscape trailer running us off the run. That got the juices moving! Luckly everything was okay and we headed downtown for the First Annual Trees for Kidz event held at the Robert Mills house. The kids got to play in trees, plant an Elm tree and learn more about trees. We had lots of fun!!

After that we hit the downtown library which I LOVE!!! While there we discovered they now carry both Megan and Tyler's favorite books!!! This is going to save me some money, Yay!!! Then a few errands to Petsmart, Target and lunch at McDonald's before going to the Storybook Painting Party at Pooh Park. There was refreshments, a petting zoo, finger painting and more:) The temps today were in the high 80's and humid!!

Boy, I am tired!!

April 8, 2011--Edventure Children's Museum

2011-04-08T22:02:00.002-04:00

April 7, 2011

2011-04-07T21:47:00.001-04:00

April 6, 2011 Nature Class

2011-04-06T22:21:00.000-04:00

4/4/2011 Exploring around on 2400 Acres

2011-04-04T22:26:00.002-04:00

I've been feeling so bad lately that I talked our nature teacher Miss.Chanda into beginning a Nature Swap and then we've barely participated due to the fact that we mostly hike at places like State Parks and you are not allowed to take things from these places. So in an effect to contribute more and do a little true exploring in land that's barely touched I talked to Todd about his friends hunting and farm land. His family owns 2400 acres of hunting and farm land along the Santee River with many beautiful ponds. I must admit I was a little nervous about snakes since the hike we took through the woods was so untouched. Had it been just me and Todd it would have been different but I worry about the kids since we do have many venomous snakes here. I felt a lot better when we decided to explore around the ponds within the cow pasture area(the cows were not currently in this pasture). While there we met this very nice couple that was fishing and let Tyler and Megan borrow their fishing rod and was so patient with helping them to fish. Tyler caught 4 bream and I'm not sure who was more excited Tyler or the nice man helping him. Oh the cheers and smiles or excitement that came from them! Megan tried very hard to catch her first fish and while she cast the rod wonderfully she got a snag and broke her line. Was she bummed? Yes, very!! She's been begging me to take her fishing all year as she's been asking to experince some of the things I enjoyed as a child. No worries that she didn't get a fish today as I've promised her that I will take them fishing this summer at Sesqui State Park.

We picked such a beautiful day to go as there was an amazing wind blowing with bright blue sky's and temps in the 80's. The trees there were beautiful and field's so green. I kept thinking what a beautiful place to take family portraits if only it wasn't such a drive it seemed. I enjoyed it so much and it was not so easy leaving to come home.

4/3/2011 A Day in the Life on a Farm

2011-04-03T22:25:00.004-04:00

Trouble with pictures and such

2011-04-02T11:19:00.001-04:00

Years ago it was so easy to place pics right were you wanted them but then Blogger made these changes and upgrades. Ever since then I have issues every time I try to do things in Blogger. It's impossible to place pics were you want them, etc! Does anyone else have these troubles and is there a "fix" for it??

4/1/2011 Alpaca Farm Visit

2011-04-01T21:22:00.024-04:00

Today our homeschool group got to visit an alpaca farm that also had goats, chickens and a very sweet, tan lab. The hosts Scott and Brandi were so kind and took so much of their time with us. The kids got to feed the animals, learn about the upkeep and all that is needed to keep them healthy included medication, teeth filing and nail clipping. We learned that alpaca's carry their unborn for 11.5 months and some other interesting facts. They are naturally free from ticks and fleas. The fur has many uses and is very soft and warm. Megan who is very much so an animal lover and has said she wants to be a veterinary when she grows up loved this place and and even though we were there over 3 hours she would have stayed all day!!

30day/30minute Outdoor Challenge for the month of April

2011-03-31T22:39:00.001-04:00

Even though we are outside A LOT I really love these outdoor challenges I have been running across. People really spend too much time inside, plugged in and it's just not healthy. The one I'm planning to take part in this month can be found here: Can You Come Outside To Play?

I actually heard about it from one of the other blogs I follow and love. Living and Learning Now I love her list of 50 Outdoor Activities Your Children Will Love!!!!

Things to do this spring

2011-03-27T17:51:00.000-04:00

I read about this link on Almost Unschoolers blog and had to pass it on:

Back Yard Nature

Project Life Once Again:)

2011-01-26T11:38:00.001-05:00

I began with Project Life when it first began in 2009. I wasn't going to do the traditional kit this year but after seeing everyone post there's and watching the Becky Higgins Video a few times I could not resist. I have been a BH fan for sooooo many years and have I believe all of her kits so how could I not order this one.
This year though I am not planning to do a picture a day as I have in the past. This month has been a very stressful one for me and I have not been in my normal nonstop picture taking mood. However, stressful or not this is my life and that is what project life is all about. It's about the everyday things big or small that make our life ours. In so many this Project Life concept has been a sort of therapy for me. I will try to share posts throughout the year showing my Project Life pages.

For more info on Project Life be sure to visit www.beckyhiggins.com

My New Favorite Show

2011-01-23T11:46:00.001-05:00

Even though it's coming up on it's 3rd season I just discovered this show Sunday before last on my local ETV station.
Wild Photo Adventures
I now have to catch up on on the previous shows before the new season begins in April 2011:)

So beautiful!

2010-12-26T22:17:00.002-05:00

How lucky to receive a little snow the day after Christmas. It was such a beautiful gift from above:) The great part was the roads were clear so I could not resist heading over to my favorite place around here for some pictures and a 2 hour hike. We even got to see a huge coyote and some cool animal tracks. This was my first ever hiking in the snow and it felt truly magical! I'm sharing a few of the pics.

Reminder to self

2010-12-03T07:54:00.000-05:00

I really want to try to make one of these for Megan's room: no-sew-book-sling

Megan and I have been discussing redecorating her room. She still has a lot of her nursery decor from when she was a baby. She's now almost 7 so maybe it would be fun to give her room a makeover. Now just to begin getting ideas:) ....I think this little book sling would be great beside her bed instead of her having a bed full of books every night.(one problem thought that I might have is that I am constantly rearranging all the rooms in the house due to slight OCD).

This spring/summer I decorated the bonus room for Tyler. It was such a great room and looked so nice. But guess what??? He never wanted to sleep in it because it was downstairs, away from our rooms and he swore there were spiders in the room that might get him! So that didn't last long! We had to move everything back into his old room. I do like having everyone's rooms close together at night but gosh it was a nice room! On the bright side Todd loved getting the room I had painted to use as a TV get away for himself:)

More Digi Scrap Pages

2010-11-24T18:34:00.002-05:00

Lately I've been spending less of my time surfing, checking my emails or on facebook. Instead I've been hanging out with the kids and getting caught up on Scrapbooking. You know it feels so great!!!! I forget how much I enjoy it until I do it. I Need to Make myself spend at least 15 minutes every night working on my books so I can record those precious moments that I know I will forget. Right now I'm working on putting together a few small 7x7 albums to give as Christmas gifts and also updating the calendars on my family albums.

Fall In South Carolina

2010-11-11T22:01:00.000-05:00

Cauliflower Mushroom

2010-11-08T18:59:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago when we were at Sesqui State Park me and the kids found this interesting looking Fungi. We took it to the ranger station and asked them if they knew what it was and they said they had no idea. So we asked if we could take it with us since we know park rules say you are not to take things from the state parks. The ranger looked at me as if I was nuts asking to have this yucky looking thing. So we put it in a zip lock bag because it was full of lots of bugs. We then took it to our very good friend Miss. Chanda--she can figure out what anything is! She is the most incredible person I've ever met. Well she emailed me and shared her findings. This brain looking Fungi is a Cauliflower Mushroom, according the the internet it may stimulate the immune system and have anti-tumor properties. You just never know what you may find when out on a nature walk!

wikipedia.org-Sparassis

I did it!!!

2010-11-05T21:53:00.000-04:00

Finally I took Megan shopping tonight for some winter clothes:) Anyone that knows me knows how much I HATE shopping especially for clothes!!! The only retail store I actually like going to is Target and we've been checking there each time we've been and they just did not have the right clothes for her. Target had lots of pretty sweaters and some cute dresses but not for my dirt digging, tree climbing daughter! So after some friends suggested Kohl's I finally made it in there and I'm so glad I did! We even found some things we both agreed on. These little outfits really fit the bill.....they are kind of cute while still allowing her the movement to climb and explore. Oh, and the best part was the price!!! She can mess these up and it's not a big deal. So glad I will not have to do this again until late spring:)

Nature Class

2010-11-05T20:14:00.014-04:00

These are a few of the extra pictures I took during Nature Class today. Such a pretty walk after the rain. It would have been a more enjoyable class/walk but there was a group of children that lacked parental guidance and thought they should do things like pulling my daughters hair, stuffing itchy leaves down my son's shirt while he was trying to listen to the teacher and more!! Even though I said something to them they really did not seem to care. I was so frustrated by the time I left today!

Fungi!

Reindeer Moss which is actually a Lichen!

Such a beautiful 9 week old puppy!

Sassafras tree--so amazing that there are
so many different leaves on one tree!

Legos on the Brain

2010-11-04T23:59:00.000-04:00

Such a Cold, Wet Day

2010-11-04T22:27:00.001-04:00

So the rain came down, down, down...... Normally we really do not get much rain at all but this year we have had a nice amount of rainfall. I recall in my younger days how much I didn't really like the rain but now as a busy adult my views have changed. I have come to enjoy how peaceful the rain is. It's as if we are given permission to just slow down. I have learned that it means baseball is canceled and mom gets the night off. It means that it's okay to just keep those overdue library books one extra day because the library gains that little late fee bonus.

It means it's okay to have hot cocoa at noon and stay in your PJ's all day if you want to. It means also when the rain slows there's a wonderful nature walk to be had. It means lots of wildlife will be coming out to play. It means the air will smell so fresh and clean. It means the flowers I forgot to water will live to fight another day. It means I do not have to worry about spraying the pollen off the car. It means the grass will be greener. It means the water bill will be cheaper. All how I have grown to really Love the rain!!!!

Nature Scavenger Hunts

2010-11-03T16:55:00.003-04:00

Have you ever done a Nature Scavenger Hunt? My kids love them!!! So I have been working on some new ones for them.

Here are some links with great ideas for what to include for your hunt:

The internet is full of links. Just Google or Yahoo "kids nature scavenger hunts"

Goodbye Old friend

2010-11-03T14:50:00.001-04:00

Our trusty Explorer!!! We bought this explorer when Tyler was only a few weeks old. For 10years this car has been an important part of our lives. It has taken us to all the places we've wanted to go. It has pulled dirt bikes and hauled lumber. The back of it has been a jungle gym for the kids climb around in. Many speaker sound systems have been built in this car and it's even won a trophy in a car audio competition. It's been to Michigan and back a few times. It's been on several other trips here and there. Todd was always worried about the miles and encouraging me to stay close to home just in case but I always had trust. Only once did it give me trouble and that was a Fuel pump and it messed up in my parents driveway thank goodness. But today was the day! The explorer now has a new owner and is off to explore new places.

Treasure we found along our Nature Walk

2010-11-02T21:11:00.000-04:00

Today at Sesqui State Park the temp high was only 60 and it was very windy making it feel so much colder. This was one of the coolest days we've had this year so we haven't really had a chance to adjust. However, finding this beautiful Yellow Tiger Swallowtail Caterpillar was so worth a little chill. Megan also pointed out that this little guy is also our state butterfly:)

The Zoo with Dad:)

2010-11-01T21:31:00.002-04:00

Halloween 2010

2010-10-30T21:58:00.001-04:00

Kitty

Daniel Boone

Art Supplies at a huge savings!!

2010-10-29T17:43:00.002-04:00

This school year for Art we are planning to try out Artistic Pursuits book 1 and Art with a Purpose. I had been slowly gathering the supplies and just using 40% coupons at Micheal's each time we needed to make a trip to Target for something. Well 2 weeks ago Micheal's had a coupon in the paper for 40% your TOTAL for Paints, Markers, Pens. I was so excited to be able to complete my list of needed art supplies for the school year:) Well on top of the great coupon I found this line called Artists Loft for around $4.99 each. For anyone that has recently bought art supplies it is rather expensive so to find these for so much less really made my day!! I'm not sure what the overall quality is but it looks pretty nice and the kids aren't really concerned with quality at this age. So my total for everything in this picture was only ......$32.90!!!!!!!!

Nature Class and Halloween Party

2010-10-27T23:11:00.001-04:00

Oh so much fun to be had but so little time! The kids were so excited to wear their costumes to Nature Class today. Miss.Chanda our teacher even pretended one of our swords was her pointer for the board. She is so amazing with the kids and they love going to visit her as much as possible. She is truly an amazing person and we are so blessed to have met her!

Today's Nature Class was on Geology. We learned about how rocks form, the rock cycle, uses for rocks, types of rocks and then made a Japanese Rock Garden.

While the kids were on their Nature walk a few of the moms prepared for the much anticipated Halloween Party. They finally got to wear their costumes and see their friend's costumes! They got to play games! I found some really neat ones on this website: Halloween Games We did the Eyeball Relay and Mummy Wrap---I loved hearing the kids cackle while they played these:) All the moms pitched in with decorations and snacks and I would have to say it was a success! Can't wait to do this again next year:)

Kitty and Daniel Boone

Fun at Charlotte Mason Co-op Today

2010-10-26T23:02:00.004-04:00

A friend of ours has a Charlotte Mason Co-op. It's a very small co-op with only a few members. They meet weekly all year rain or shine, hot or cold. It takes dedication and commitment and so it's something I've been giving lots of thought to.   Today we went for the first time to try it out to see how what we thought. They do Circle Time, Show-N-Tell, Artist/Picture Study, Handicrafts, Nature Study, Nature Books, and more. Both kids LOVED it today. They are really looking forward to next time and I am too.
    After hearing more about Charlotte Mason last year I checked out some books from the library and begin researching more online. While I know we will not use everything Charlotte Mason, there is so much about it that really appeals to me. I am looking forward to this school year and learning more about the CM style of teaching/learning and joining in on with this group as much as we possibly can.
I also ordered a few nature books about 2 weeks ago. I ordered Pocketful of Pinecones and Last Child in the Woods. I began reading these but have been too busy to get past Chapter 1.....I really want to set aside some time this winter to wrap up in a blanket and enjoy these.   I also ordered the Handbook of Nature Studies---I was so excited when this one arrived.   I am planning to do as many Nature Studies as we can and I want to combine it with our Audubon guides and the Blog: Handbook of Nature Study Blog

These are a few pictures from today(It rained much of the morning but the sun popped out for a while this afternoon):

Learning about the Cherokee at the County Museum

2010-10-22T23:29:00.000-04:00

Today we went on a great field trip to the Lexington County Museum. We learned so much about the Cherokee way of life. We learned about:

the use of the different type of baskets they made
how they made their clothing
how they made their tools
what they hunted
how they carried their babies with them everywhere they went
how the women owned everything
what wild plants they would have gathered and about a plant they used in their fishing basket that made the fish drowsy
what games they would have played
the folklore they passed down through the generations
how the Cherokee like pretty things and how they decorated there things things juice from berries and the burnings from there fire to paint
and much, much more!!!

This is the 3rd series of classes we have attended. We are enjoying them all so very much:)

So much fun at the SC State Fair

2010-10-21T22:52:00.003-04:00

Again this year we had such a great time at the SC State Fair. This year we decided not to ride any rides for several reasons actually. We did: however, that full advantage of all the wonderful shows the fair had to offer. The theme this year was strongly dog related. There were Wild West Chihuahuas, High Flying K-9's that caught Frisbee's, a dog that Hypnotized people, a white tiger and so must more.

The exhibits were great as well. The fair was celebrating 100 year of Scouting so there was a great booth dedicated to the Boy/Club scouts. The kids got to have fun racing the pine derby cars, tying notes, and much more. We also got to shop at a few of our favorite festival spots such as the Beef Jerky shop, the Bulk Candy place and even got a great deal on some wonderful Usborne Books. It was such a long day but we had such a great day together:)

Lego Quest and Lego Jewelry

2010-10-13T22:51:00.001-04:00

Oh I can not wait to tell Tyler and Megan about this challenge tomorrow when they wake up!! They are both HUGE Lego fans!! You can read more about it here: legoquest

Oh and this link is on the Lego Quest Blog: Lego Jewelry I believe we have found our next project:)

Congaree Guided Tour and Canoe Trip

2010-10-13T22:49:00.002-04:00

Early Farm Life at the Museum

2010-10-08T20:31:00.001-04:00

Today we got to attend another excellent field trip at the Lexington County Museum. Today's topics where Early Farm Life and Early Games. The kids got to learn about the types of animals seen on a farm and what each animals purpose was to the farm. They got to learn about what tools would have been used on a farm and they got to practice planting some corn and processing(I guess that's the right word to use) of the corn. We learned that in those days children would have gone went to the corn field and made their own dolls from dried corn husks. We then got to play some Early Games which included Horse Shoes, Tug-O-War, Jump Roping, Pick up Sticks and many more from the 1700s and 1800s. We all had so much fun I really wanted to just stay the entire day:)

Nature Class- Nature Writing

2010-10-06T22:19:00.002-04:00

Today Miss.Chanda taught the kids about Nature Writing. First they learned about Fiction and Non-Fiction. Then the kids made turkey feather pens to use for their nature writing. Then the kids each set out with their mom to use their 5 senses to see what things they could write about from the nature around them.

Nature Collections--How to store and display

2010-10-06T20:43:00.003-04:00

How do you store and display your nature collections?
This is something we are just beginning but I will share pictures of ours very soon:)

Until then here are a few links with some great ideas to get you started:
Homeschooling-ideas nature-table

Heywoodsmeadow blog- nature-collections

Simple kids- ways to store and display nature collections

GironLife nature-shelf

In the Sparrow's Nest

The Magic Onions blog- Nature Table

WarrenleeCohen - perserving autumn leaves

Ohdeedoh.com nature-collection

Today's Blessing and the making of a local Commercial

2010-10-05T23:24:00.001-04:00

A friend invited us to our local college extension because they were filming a commercial to advertise an upcoming Fall Festival that will be taking place the end of Oct. I thought the kids would just be there on the property so that it looked busy since it was a weekday afternoon, but it turned out that they were IN the commercial. Ty did not realize it would be something that will be on TV for everyone in the state to see. He was shocked when we were talking about it on the car ride home. He's now so excited and can not wait to see himself on TV.

We were talking today on the car ride home about how fortunate we are to have the opportunity to have such a flexible schedule and to be able to take parts in these type of things. He says he sees how lucky he is but I know really that he has no idea, as he's not had the real experience to compare it. Homeschooling is a blessing to us in so many ways. Today's blessing was in getting to again take part in a community activity and not be rushed, we even helped out with the taking down of the decorations afterword. We got to meet the Director and his wife who were great to chat with and I learned of some more educational opportunities that we will be taking part in . Then after that we headed over to the Farmer's Market that is on the same property and talked with the vendors once again and learned new things. We spoke with the lady about the different types of Mums and how to care for them and even brought a few home. We spent some time talking with a lady that sells soap and she discussed with us her soap making process in which she uses a cold process and things like Olive Oil. It was yet another great day:)

This is a link for Cold Process Soap Making in case anyone else was wondering about this:)

More fun with Geobands

2010-10-01T22:30:00.001-04:00

A Puppy. When I asked her about his red ear she explained to me that usually dogs have different colored ears. I suppose she has been studying all the dogs we have met and she is what she has observed.

Halloween Blog Hop

2010-09-26T12:53:00.003-04:00

Something from Cassie

Fall Decorating Blog Party

2010-09-26T10:53:00.001-04:00

I Love Blog hops. There's always so many creative people that take part in these. I would love to begin joining in one day. So far I have not decorated as that is such a weakness for me. I feel like I have no idea where to even begin. I worry things would not look right and might feel cluttered on top of the fact that I am so indecisive, another thing I am trying REALLY hard to work on. I am forever rearranging the house and then thinking well I might want to just sell the house and buy a new one. So my house is very simple and plain. I do not even have pictures on the walls. So I am putting this on my goals list:)

The Inspired Room

Hooked on Houses

I do love these ideas that she shared on this blog:
Timeless and Treasured So I think I'm going to give this little decorating project a try. If I mess up no big deal as I'll only be out less than $20. I can handle that:)

Daniel Boone Marathon

2010-09-17T21:36:00.001-04:00

Last weekend we began our Daniel Boone Marathon. Tyler saw Season 3 and 4 at our local library and begged to get them. I do not recall ever watching these as a kid but I thought sure why not. Well they have been excellent!! Great, positive entertainment for the whole family! Tyler even got the question at the museum right about the gun powder being carried in the horns. Can't wait to watch all the seasons!

Georgia Aquarium

2010-08-28T18:17:00.002-04:00

The kids at the Georgia Aquarium, currently the Worlds Largest Aquarium

The Digital Decision

2010-08-01T11:55:00.000-04:00

The Digital Decision from A Cherry on Top

July 4, 2010

2010-07-05T17:00:00.000-04:00

Seashell Unit study

2010-06-26T14:11:00.000-04:00

Walking by the Way Blog has shared a really neat unit study for seashells. Looks like fun and she even has a give away going that you can enter to win! Check it out here: Seashell Study

Another great idea for a summer theme--Mad Science

2010-06-18T19:26:00.000-04:00

Mad Science Summer Love this theme idea that is shared on Walking by the Way blog. My kids would love this I just know it:) So I am adding this to my To-Do list for this coming week. Oh I can not wait to put this together!

Amazing Homeschool Space and more

2010-06-15T19:43:00.000-04:00

Awesome Homeschool Space I just had to share this with my fellow homeschool friends. Not only is her space amazing but she also has some great ideas!!

Free Summer Family Movies

2010-06-08T19:18:00.006-04:00

Hubby took a vacation day today so he got to join us at the movies.

End of the Season Baseball Pool Party

2010-06-07T19:30:00.002-04:00

Tyler was nervous all week worrying that he would not be able to swim as well as the other kids but it turned out fine, he even joined the other kids in the 8ft area. Megan's swimmer from last year still fits her too so she was good to go all over the pool with no worries!

Megan's First Baseball Trophy!

2010-06-06T21:43:00.002-04:00

Megan was so excited about getting her first Baseball trophy, just like her brother!!

Things to do in the summertime

2010-06-04T08:19:00.002-04:00

Passing on these great lists for anyone looking for some new ideas:

Latter Day Homeschooling Oh What Do You Do In Summertime

Willette Designs summer-photo-ideas

Work in Progress Blog 60-fun-days-of-summer

Feel free to comment here and add to this!

Shawfest 2010

2010-05-09T22:01:00.005-04:00

Link to some great homeschool links

2010-05-08T00:04:00.001-04:00

Another blog that has some wonderful links! Just click here

Latest RC Foamie

2010-05-07T22:30:00.003-04:00

This is the latest Plane that Todd has cut out from sheets of foam. He did a great job on the paint too!

Nature Backpacks

2010-05-06T07:57:00.004-04:00

Putting this together is currently on my To-Do list: After attending our Nature Class at a local state park it was perfect that I discovered this blog: Noggins and Nonsense She has ideas for putting together your own nature backpack and more. We already have most of the things she listed just a few missing items and then getting it all together. I'm so excited!

Hank the Cowpup--Growing up!!

2010-04-29T13:09:00.003-04:00

At a year and a half old he's finally becoming a really good dog:) While he is still stubborn as a mule; he no longer eats the walls! Would you believe a shoe can sit by the back kitchen door for an hour and remain unchewed! If we are sitting at the dinner table he is quietly waiting under someones chair in case we should need his assistance with crumb droppings. If we are doing our school work he is there either laying on my feet or licking Megan's toes. When we call him to come in....He comes!!! No more having to play the open and close the door trick 30 times to get him to finally make up his mind to come in. When the kids are riding their bikes around there track in the back yard again he's right there running a step or two in front on them. If we say it's time for a walk he's there ready for his harness. If we ask if he wants to go out to play he runs and waits by the back door. Yes, he still believes the cats are his friends and WANT to play with him...I guess we will let him continue to believe that.

Todd told me that dogs as they get older they get better. I did not believe him but I'm finding out that he may just be right about this.

Becky Higgins Project Life Gallery:)

2010-03-19T23:25:00.001-04:00

http://beckyhiggins.com/projectlife/gallery/main.php

Just my outloud ramblings as they are

2010-03-17T23:24:00.000-04:00

Just thinking, as I often do:) Life is too short to not live it to the fullest and enjoy it each and everyday. Each day I think about all my many blessings, too many to ever list them all and also I pray for those less fortunate. Each night when it's time to shut my eyes I like knowing that my family was cared for that day and they know I love them. Each day I try to greet everyone I meet with a smile and kind word. I like taking the time to look around and notice the beauty in all things. I believe in living by "the golden rule" and always try to teach my children this. I try to always learn from other's mistakes as well as my own(the Lord knows about them). I do feel like one person can make a difference in the lives of others. I know that we are not perfect but what do we have to loose by trying our best. Many of us picked a word for New Years and I could not pick just one. So I had 2. The first was LAUGHTER. Yes, it's good medicine. Laughing it feels good, it spreads, really it does. Have you have just started laughing for no reason at all? Sure there are a few around that will think you have completely lost it, but most usually smile and wonder why you are laughing and the cool part...you do not need a reason!! Just laugh. Why not? My other word was SIMPLIFY. Life gets busy. It does. I want to do it all but then there's sleep and dishes and laundry and grocery shopping and all the other daily unfinished tasks that I know are always nipping at my heels. I finally came to realize I can not escape from them, oh well, I tried...they won. However, less is more. No matter what it is! I will do all that I can and that's enough, it's okay if the laundry did not make it out of the dryer or if every fork we own is in the dishwasher waiting to run, it's okay. The world will not stop spinning. What matters to me is did I stop to play Lego's when the kids asked me to? Did I teach the kids to help the older lady in line behind us with her groceries? Did I do the things that will matter in 20 years? I hope so and if I didn't then I need to send myself a reminder.....

Tyler's first BMX race

2010-02-27T22:52:00.005-05:00

This is a day Tyler has waited for a long time.

Worm Bin How-to

2010-02-18T10:40:00.001-05:00

http://unplugyourkids.com/2009/06/17/worm-bin/

Composting

2010-02-18T10:37:00.002-05:00

http://www.eartheasy.com/grow_compost.html

http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm

http://www.howstuffworks.com/composting.htm/printable

Snow in the south:)

2010-02-13T22:37:00.004-05:00

Nature Class

2010-01-29T22:10:00.001-05:00

Fun Photography study group Assignment

2010-01-29T09:08:00.002-05:00

While visiting Barb's Blog she had a post about this photography group study she is participating in. I visited the links she had included and this one really looks like fun and such a great thing to encourage me to step out of my comfort zone and become more creative. This is the link to Barb's post:
http://scrappinbarb.typepad.com/funny_things/2010/01/photography-study-group.html

Soda Stream

2010-01-24T19:03:00.000-05:00

http://www.sodastreamusa.com/Genesis-Machines-C30.aspx

Homeschooling for Preschool

2010-01-23T23:23:00.010-05:00

I wanted to share this post for anyone looking for ideas on how to begin homeschooling their little ones. These are a few things that I found to be wonderful for homeschooling ages 2-4.

A great website for fun learning for ages 2 and up: http://www.starfall.com/

I highly recommend the entire Leapfrog Video series beginning with Letter Factory, then the Talking Words Factory. Megan knew the sound for every letter of the alphabet when she was 2 years old. Also the Talking Words Factory was excellent. These 2 videos together really paved the way for her reading success. The best $10 I've ever spent. If you have Netflix and would like to try them out before you buy they did carry them, I assume they still do. http://www.leapfrog.com/en/video/letter_factory.html

Another really great resource I found was Abeka's nursery curriculum. I did not buy the entire kit just the basic workbooks. When Megan was 2 I had her do the books for 2 year olds and when she was 3 she did the ones for 3 year olds. They were great! https://www.abeka.com/ABekaOnline/CatalogSearch.aspx

Also I read to her a lot. She loved the books from Before Five in a Row. Homeschool Share has the list of the books as well as some other Excellent resources. http://www.homeschoolshare.com/before_five_in_a_row_resources.php

Around 4:
Depending on the child, Bob Books are great for beginning to read. http://www.rainbowresource.com/search.php?sid=1264308319-1358196
For phonics the Explode the Code primers A, B,C and 1,2,3 are a must have: http://www.rainbowresource.com/prodlist.php?sid=1264308319-1358196&subject=5&category=823

For Megan I also began her in Saxon Math K at 4: http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/Math+K+Home+Study+Kit/018398/1264308319-1358196

Now please note none of this is written in stone. I believe all kids are ready at different ages for different things. If you try any of this and it's not working I say shelf it and try again later. Learning should be fun not a chore. I believe the goal is to spark there curiosity and encourage them to want to explore and learn more. I do understand some say to wait but in my personal experience with my 2 children I had greater success beginning earlier. Megan does not know any other way. She looks forward to learning and her school time each day. I wish I would have known all this when Tyler was a little guy.
If anyone would like to comment and leave other valuable resources, please feel free. Also if you have any questions feel free to ask and I will do my best to answer:)

Update: I wanted to add that each state has different homeschool laws. To learn more about the laws in your state refer to this link: www.hslda.org

Legos for Megan's Bday

2010-01-21T22:19:00.001-05:00

Nature Class--Fossils

2010-01-20T22:14:00.000-05:00

Megan's 6th Bday Party

2010-01-17T22:17:00.000-05:00

Science Diet

2010-01-01T21:42:00.003-05:00

In the past I have always fed my cats Science Diet, but then we got Hank and tried Purina and he preferred it over Iams so I thought the cats might also prefer Purina and gave it a try. Well they starved....Their bowl stayed empty and they begged the entire family for food so I discovered all food is not created equal. I think these guys are happy to have good food again.

On a side note: Pete chews into ALL bags. We have to hide his food and everything from him. He has chewed holes in his food bags, litter bags, treats, bacon bits, bags of candy, some scrapbook supplies I had. I've never had a cat like this but this is Pete's thing, his one and only fault. This time I caught him on camera!

Our Christmas pictures 2009

2009-12-22T22:07:00.003-05:00

Dry Erase Board Paint

2009-12-21T22:52:00.001-05:00

Adding this to my wish list: http://www.ideapaint.com/site/ideapaint_home.html

Digi Scrap pages

2009-12-14T08:06:00.002-05:00

I made this page using Creative Memories StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0. I LOVE this program after I discovered that it DOES work along with photoshop. I had been given some incorrect information from Creative Memories customer service--by the way I do not recommend calling CM's customer service. The wait time each time to speak with someone was between 20-50minutes and then receiving incorrect information. I actually discovered the right info from the 2 peas message board thank goodness because I almost tossed the program. This software makes Digital Scrapbooking so much Faster and easier even for those that know Photoshop!!!!

Positive story in the news-- "Help Portrait"

2009-12-14T07:10:00.000-05:00

Well I NEVER get up early and turn on the TV but since I was awake coughing once again I came downstairs and turned on the TV; guess the Lord said April get up and get your tail down there:). Well Chanel 19 had a story about a man named Jeremy Cowart. Jeremy is a Nashville Photographer that began http://www.help-portrait.com/ This movement is to help the less fortunate during the holiday season. The idea is to get a group of photographers together to take portraits for those that Need them (single moms, families struggling to make ends meet, homeless, Cancer or sick patients, people in recovery, etc --you get the picture). The photographers get together at a set time during the holidays and the people come out and have there pictures taken for FREE including the printing that they get to take home with them. Listening to the Photographers and families speak just now really touched my heart, this is something I want to achieve in my personal photography--While I know I can not do this for 2009 I hope to be one of those photographers in the upcoming years. One guy on there this morning was in rehab for drugs and wanted a picture to give his mom for Christmas and to let her know he is turning his life around and means it. He said seeing the picture of himself Smiling helped him see himself in a more postitive light.Another families little boy was battling Cancer and she said the picture was so important to them because you never know when that could be the last picture you ever take (so very True)There were also homeless people on there and more. Oh and also people volunteered to do hair and makeup for them so this was the first time many of these people had ever seen themselves "beautiful"--they had tears. Is that not the sweetest thing!?!This is another link about it:http://donmilleris.com/2009/09/01/1260/And I am sure there are more.This is such a positivie thing that he has begun and I think it has the power to impact lives, and I do want to be a part of this and hope other photographers will join in as well. I checked their website and only a few photographers from the Columbia area are on there so far but I feel certain it will continue to grow.

Christmas book list

2009-12-12T20:50:00.001-05:00

Jen shared the most wonderful list of Christmas books and I thought I would share the link here in case anyone was looking for some Christmas book ideas this season: Jen's Christmas book list

Great Air Show this weekend

2009-10-14T15:46:00.006-04:00

Cool Cat

2009-09-23T19:20:00.006-04:00

Life as a Scout

2009-09-23T17:44:00.003-04:00

Megan's first Lost tooth

2009-09-09T18:28:00.004-04:00

Megan's first lost tooth on 9/9/09-easy to remember! She was excited when she discovered it did not hurt. Now it is safely in a Ziplock where no one can have it, not even the tooth fairy. She said she's keeping it.

Tyler turns 9

2009-08-18T22:32:00.000-04:00

The cutest puppy pics

2009-08-14T08:28:00.001-04:00

While browsing around at 2 peas I ran across the cutest puppy scrapbook pages and had to share these: Too Cute

New Layout

2009-08-12T20:42:00.003-04:00

((Okay no matter what it seems I just never can get good pictures of my layouts and the colors never look right. ))

Cool Blog I have got to share

2009-08-03T18:10:00.011-04:00

(PLEASE NOTE NONE OF THESE PICTURES ARE MINE, ALL OF THESE I BORROWED FROM HER BLOG TO SHARE WITH YOU GUYS)

I have spent this evening on one of the coolest blogs: http://controllingmychaos.blogspot.com/search/label/crafts?updated-max=2008-09-20T00%3A01%3A00-06%3A00&max-results=20 . She is so talented and has so many wonderful ideas that I am dieing to try out. Just a little of what she has is cool covered clipboards:

Cool Backpack tags: A great idea for tracking your child's growth and you never have to worry about painting over it: The cool flower pens we always see everywhere and I even got one of these from Megan for Mother's day that she got from her Awana class: Plus there is way more!! I haven't even seen all of it yet. There's lots of great recipes, scrapbook pages and more. I am heading to Home Depot and Wal-mart tomorrow to get some supplies:)

Budget Homeschooling

2009-08-01T22:03:00.002-04:00

While browsing forums there seems to be more and more discussions regarding homeschooling on a budget. I found this link and she has a great little ebook that she will email to you:
http://www.successful-homeschooling.com/homeschool-newsletter.html
http://www.successful-homeschooling.com/affordable-homeschooling.html Check it out!

My List of Things

2009-08-01T15:12:00.006-04:00

While I am not a make plans kind of person I still love to think ahead. As soon as I get a new calendar I jot down ideas and events under that month. These are my list of things I jot down, except I have them separated under the months I hope to do them (I feel like writing them down helps to keep me on track so that the time does not pass so quickly that I miss things):

My List of Things:

Mad Science Homeschool days
Park Days with our homeschool friends
Swan Lake
Nature Walks
Canoe trip at Congaree National Forest
Visit State Parks
Zoo Visits
Backyard Camping
Swan Lake
Lowe's/Home Depot Workshops
Micheal's Craft workshop for the kids
State Museum
Awana
SC State Fair
Boo at the Zoo
Hayrides
Pumpkin Carving
Lights before Christmas

Saturday all day crop

2009-07-28T10:28:00.005-04:00

Got to spend all day Saturday cropping with friends. I never would have imagined how very much I love crops. I always thought it just made more since to scrapbook at home with all my stuff. Why spend the time to pack up? Well after attending a few crops I have a new outlook. I love packing up and spending the day with other scrapbookers in our own little world.

These are a few layouts I did recently:

VERY LATE Easter shoot

2009-07-20T15:04:00.006-04:00

Scrapbook Poll, Give away drawing

2009-07-18T12:56:00.002-04:00

Debby over at Debby's Dare has a scrapbook poll with questions about page kits. Please take a few seconds to do this and when you leave a comment tell her April Kelley sent you. And then you send your friends over to take it also. Okay! She will be having a fun drawing!

This is the link:
http://debbysdares.blogspot.com/2009/07/christmas-in-july-and-big-dare.html

4th of July

2009-07-05T14:18:00.004-04:00

Blog Update

2009-03-17T10:57:00.002-04:00

Okay so even though I am still taking pictures for my Project 365 I have not been uploading them to my other blog. Some days I just take a computer break and other times I just do not transfer my pictures everyday and then there are other parts of my day that I do not know if I really want to share with the world. So I think I am going to come back to my blog here. I miss just being able to randomly post here and there as I have time.

So I am back. I really want to take the time to reorganize a lot of my blog and change some things and update the links and such. I'm not sure what I will do with my Project 365 blog, Trying to decide if it's worth the time to try to move it all to over here. I wonder if there is an easy way to do that...

Feb 19, 2009

2009-02-20T00:54:00.000-05:00

Bunnicula

For our field trip today we went to see Bunnicula performed at our local Children's Theatre. The actors did a really great job and we loved it!