Leaps & Bounds

I had a parent teacher conference with Makenzie's teacher the other day. I always go into those feeling both worry & relief. I want to know how she is doing, I NEED to know how she is doing, but at the same time, I'm usually scared to find out.

I have seen such an improvement in her lately. She has went from someone who would do almost anything to get out of reading to someone who reads every sign, box, & piece of information that she can. She is the one to remind me that she has homework if I forget. You can look at her & see the pieces starting to fit together!

She is finally getting it!

Realizing that I couldn't teach her to read was so hard for me to accept & admit. We tried. We really tried!

I understand now why some parents make different choices for their children. While homeschooling worked fine for Austin, & me for that matter. It wasn't what my daughter needed & it took me over 2 years to see that.

I believe now that homeschooling was more for me than for my children anyway. I learned to lean on God like I never had before. I learned that I don't always have all the answers. I learned that its ok for the budget not to work out on paper, because God doesn't budget like we do. I learned that some of the best lessons are lived, not taught.

And while some days, I miss my 2 oldest being home with me, I love seeing the excitement when they talk about their friends, when they tell me all about what happened during their day, & even when I have to wade through the drama that is middle school. I wouldn't change my how & why we came to the choices we made for anything. For without those exact choices at those exact times, things wouldn't be what they are now.

I'm thankful that God had another plan! And I'm thankful that I actually listened when I did.

Makenzie's teacher told me that I couldn't have put her back in at a more appropriate time. It seems that there are far more in the same boat as my daughter right now than not.

I want to share our GREAT NEWS - Makenzie has grown a WHOLE grade level in just 5 months!!!! I know we still have some ways to go, but I could n't be prouder of her success! She will get there!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for your prayers!! PLEASE keep them coming!

The Best of 2013

It seems like only yesterday that I was writing this post describing 2012, now I'm reviewing 2013.

365 days - It can both seem like forever & can seem like mere moments. Some of those moments can bring a smile to your face, some can make you cringe just thinking about them, & some can change your life forever.

I hope that more moments in 2013 made you smile than cry. I hope that not only has your life been changed for the better, but that you have had a part in changing someone else's life as well.

Join me in reminiscing on a few favorites from the past year. If you have one that stands out, please let me know!

• God is still saving sinners
• Dr Seuss is the greatest
• "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." Jeremiah 29:11
• My husband is my best friend.
• We all need a vision
• Austin returns to public school
• My children teach me more than I teach them
• Makenzie returns to public school
• And God uses little ones too
• Occasionally I can cook
• Is holding your breath really necessary
• You are my hero
• Surely 490 isn't the magic number
• I fully believe that God dropped Plexus in my lap at JUST the right moment!
• Are you a good follower
• Bad news isn't always as bad as it seems
• Our beach vacation
• Never a dull moment
• One proud momma
• The curriculum that isn't being used
• Logan's birthday party
• We are only human
• Show them you love them 

As you can see, I had a hard time narrowing it down this year!

I thank God for a happy 2013 & I look forward to an even better 2014!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ If Just One More Soul

I continue to be amazed by God's goodness, grace, love, & mercy.

God chose to allow us to travel DEEP into a valley in order to get us where we needed to be to trust Him fully. Through that, we were able to start our homeschool journey. I don't know that we would have stepped out on faith enough to travel that road any other way.

You have been faithful in keeping up with us through that journey. You have been supportive through the highs & lows. Some of you have laughed & cried right along with me as I shared the insanity of our daily life. Some of you know us almost better than we know ourselves.

Even if my post from yesterday took most of you by surprise, some of you weren't surprised at all when Austin returned to public school. I fully believe that God has a plan for EVERYTHING.

I told you last month about discovering God's need for Austin in middle school.

It didn't take me nearly as long to understand how God would use Makenzie to touch someone else's life.


I received a message this morning from someone I consider a friend even though we barely know each other. She saw my post about Makenzie returning to school & chose to read yesterday's post. She immediately felt led to contact me. She has been having problems with something that she loves but just doesn't seem to be working out. She was looking for a little advice.

The only thing I could really tell her was to seek God's will. She then asked how she would know God's will. The best way I can describe it is feeling peace even in all of the uncertainty. I felt the overwhelming desire to ask about her salvation.

THAT is SO NOT me. I can talk to people ALL day about my faith & just how big my God is, but I tend to get shy when it comes to down right asking people if they are saved.

She thought she was, but just didn't know anymore. God opened up Heaven & let the words flow for me to witness & explain salvation to her. I honestly cried just as much as I typed (YES, God CAN use Facebook!).

She said she wanted to KNOW for sure she was saved so she was going to pray! I promised her I would be praying too.

As I kneeled in my bedroom floor with tears flowing, I KNEW that I was reaching Heaven on behalf of my friend! I KNEW when that peace came over me that everything was alright! I KNEW then & there WHY & I thanked God for using Makenzie, for using me, & for allowing us to be apart of something so beautiful only God Himself truly understands it!

When I spoke with my friend later on, she was overjoyed with the assurance of knowing WHO held her future!

If for no other reason what so ever, it was worth my baby girl returning to public school so this one soul could be saved!!!

I can't help but be amazed at how BIG MY GOD IS!!!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ When God Has Another Plan

Have you ever tried & tried to do something, only to continually have it fall apart? Have you ever wanted something with all your heart only to realize that it wasn't going to happen? Have you ever thought you had it all figured out only to know that nothing was quiet what you thought it was?

I have been struggling for awhile now. I have been trying to figure it out. I have been trying to find God's will. I have been trying to understand the reason, the timing, & the direction. I have been weighing the possibilities. I have been praying for guidance.

Even though I still question, even though I am still anxious, even though I still wonder, I feel peace through the uncertainty.

I don't feel like I have given up. I don't feel like I have lost a battle. I don't feel like a failure. I understand that God's will is different from mine. I understand that this chapter in my life has come to an end.

I also understand that God is trying to lead me in a new direction. I also understand that God only wants the best for me. I also understand that only God knows the future.

Tomorrow, Grace of God Christian Academy will be taking a hiatus. I have no clue how long our homeschool will be closed. I don't know if this is a permanent thing or if its just for a little while. Tomorrow, my sweet Makenzie will attend public school for the very first time.

I should have seen it coming. I should have known this was the direction that we were heading. Every single time I tried to plan, every single time I thought about school, every single time anything was mentioned, my stomach would knot & I would silently scream NO.

I thought I understood the resistance once we realized that Austin was going back to middle school. But, the thoughts, the feelings never let up.

My heart hasn't been in it at all. I haven't wanted to do anything school related. I haven't enjoyed anything this year.

Its not a burn out thing. Its not a frustration thing. Its not a need a break thing.

I really believe that God has been leading us in this direction.

Why He only gave me a little over 3 years to teach my kids from home? I'll never know. I hope that I accomplished what I was supposed to in those precious years. I hope that I haven't let Him down. I hope that He can look at me & say well done.

I'm thankful for the time I have had. I don't regret for a minute having all 3 of my babies home with me!

Now, looking to the future, only God knows, but I'm sure He will direct us where we need to go!

A Lesson in Grace

I took Makenzie back to the doctor yesterday for her ADHD evaluation. Her doctor doesn't think she has full blown ADHD although there might be a little tendency underlying there. She also eased my fears that her problems are not stemming from not being able to do the work intellectually. She has some sort of learning difference/disability, we just need to figure out what it is.

 

She assured me that I was doing the right thing by backing up, allowing Makenzie to do lessons that she was comfortable with, and not putting pressure on her. She acknowledged the fact that Makenzie is a very happy kid so she must be adjusting well. She also understood the frustration that I was feeling. Everything came so easy to me in school so its a little hard for me to realize that not everyone is like I was. I know this, but its easier said than done when it just doesn't click.

I feel a little better about the situation, but somehow, guilt still overcomes me. I'm having a hard time knowing that I have done everything that I can do to help her. I'm having a hard time knowing that somehow I haven't failed her. I'm having a hard time letting go & letting God.

Last night, I was talking to a friend about all kinds of things in general, silly things, concerns in her life, issues in mine, who really is suffering from our selfish government, etc. Neither one of us could understand why some things were happening. We were looking for that bright neon sign from God that says "This is it. This is why. This is your purpose. This is your way." I simply told her that maybe God was teaching her grace........

It didn't hit me until just a little while ago as I was trying to get Makenzie to focus & trying to get Logan to leave her alone, that maybe my friend wasn't the only one who needed to learn a lesson in grace. I had an hour long conversation last night after a crazy hectic day while trying to eat a late supper, settle babies down for the night, right the world of all its wrongs, understand injustice, laugh, cry, offer advice & prayers just to realize that God was trying to show me that big flashing neon sign.

I'm thankful for God's grace even when I'm sure He is aggravated with repeatedly telling me something. I'm thankful for God's grace even when I'm sure He is thinking "will she ever get it". I'm thankful for God's grace even as I don't show grace like I should. I'm thankful for God's grace even when I don't deserve it.

What's One More Thing

Well, its that time again. Its time for the Ultimate Blog Challenge.

If you will remember, I flooded your newsfeeds with LOTS of posts in July when I last took part in this. I was unsure as I wrapped up the month if I would sign up for it again. I was still unsure when I signed up to do it again last night. I am still unsure even as I sit here writing.

My life has been crazy busy & complicated lately - even more so than normal!

We ALWAYS are overbooked every fall. Between football & cheerleading, there really isn't much room for anything else. Well, this year, we have added 2 different school schedules (public school & homeschool). We have added Justin not only helping to coach Austin's football team, but also being the athletic trainer for the high school football team, which means that he has to be at every practice right after school as well as every JV & Varsity game, both home & away.

Its that time of year where my home business picks up. I am up to my ears in ribbon, tulle, & bottlecaps trying to stock up for the Apple Festival, various fall festivals, vendor events, & Christmas orders.

I have also recently started another business. I have become an Ambassador with Plexus Slim. I am working so hard at trying to build this business into something lucrative so I can help our family.

Add to all of this, the every day chores around the house, the demands of being a pastor's wife, & the requirements of a homeschool teacher and it seems so overwhelming right now.

So I still wonder if trying to write 30 blog posts in 30 days was the smartest decision.

Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE writing my blog! I LOVE hearing from someone how much I have encouraged them! I LOVE knowing that God is using ME through something that I enjoy!

I just don't EVER want to feel like I HAVE to do this! Then it becomes a J O B & not many people enjoy their jobs.

So bare with me while I attempt another challenge. Bare with me if some days life takes over & I don't get to post. Bare with me if occasionally something I write doesn't make as much sense as it did in my head.

Bare with me if I don't make it to 30. I'm going to give it my best effort, but if I fall short, remember I am human & bare with me!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Just Like Starting Over

I'm a creature of habit. I like knowing what's going to happen. I like having it all wrote down in a planner.

Being a mom helped me to understand that nothing goes like you plan it to go. Being a stay at home mom taught me to taught me to roll with the punches. Being a stay at home homeschool mom made me realize that some days I should just throw my planner out the window and start over.

I don't mind spontaneity, but if I have something planned, then I expect it to happen. When it doesn't happen, I tend to get wound tight.

When we started our homeschool journey over 4 years ago, we knew there would be obstacles, difficult times, rewards, joy, sadness, fear, & all kinds of surprises.

We struggled that 1st year as Austin began the 3rd grade trying to find our way, trying to set a schedule, trying to figure out what worked & what didn't. We finally figured it out.

We struggled our 2nd year as Makenzie began Kindergarten & we welcomed Logan to our family. We finally figured it out.

We struggled our 3rd year as Austin's 5th grade work got harder, as Makenzie fought to learn to read, & as Logan became increasingly mobile. We finally figured it out.

We started our 4th year struggling again as we tried to find the balance between our homeschool needs & Austin's public school needs & as Logan becomes more curious & destructive than I have the patience to deal with on most days. We are still struggling trying to get Makenzie to read.

If I have learned anything from homeschooling so far, it has been to expect the unexpected. Things don't always go according to my plan. In fact, things usually go so far left of my plan that its not even funny.

I am having to back up & punt this year.

Makenzie is in the 2nd grade. She is a beautiful, active, loving child that would give you anything if you only asked. She loves to cheer & do cartwheels. She excels at math, but has the hardest time remembering even simple sight words.

I'm really having a hard time with this. I know deep down that this has nothing to do with me. BUT, I can't help but wonder if I had sent her to public school, would she be reading? or would she be even further behind? I can't help but look back & wonder if I could have done more to help her.

We have started ADHD evaluations with her. I'm not a doctor, but I have always seen signs & symptoms. She is also being tested for learning disabilities. They know that something is hindering her from learning to read & comprehend, but they just aren't sure what yet.

This just breaks my heart! I HATE labels! I don't want people to look at her differently. I don't want her to be considered a hard child. I don't want anyone to think she is slow or worse.

I've said from day 1 that she marched to the beat of her own drum. I've scratched my head at her randomness. I've laughed at her silly antics. I've gotten frustrated at having to repeatedly tell her to do something.

So, our 4th year of homeschooling I'm sure will continue to see struggles. But God is using this to show me that I need to change MY expectations & I need to rely more on Him.

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Back To School?

....... um ....... NOPE! Not yet!

I was really hoping to start back on Tuesday Sept 3. BUT, if I don't get my butt in gear, That's NOT going to happen! I have still yet to plan ONE SINGLE THING!!! Oh My!!

Public school started back this week. Just in case you missed my big announcement a few weeks ago, my oldest decided it was time to rejoin his peers in the brainwashing process. (I'm just kidding!)

I can joke about public school & still be supportive!

I truly believe this will be a good change for Austin. He was ready. And I'm proud of him for knowing what he wants & going after it. But I do miss him like crazy!

So anyway, I have tried to catch up on various others things this week, but it feels like I am just spinning my wheels. I have completely fallen victim to (& LOVING every minute of it) allowing Logan to take a nap in my bed every day (with me in there with him!). I have come to crave this quiet time almost as much as he does.

We'll see just how much I can get done over the weekend in the hopes that we can start school next week. Don't hold your breath though!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Change & a New Chapter

It is with much joyous anxiety that Grace of God Christian Academy announces a HUGE CHANGE to their 2013-2014 school year! I knew this day was fast approaching. I knew that I would have mixed emotions. But I also knew that God would provide!

If you haven't guessed by now, my oldest son Austin is returning to the ranks of public school in a little over a week. A WEEK?!?! That's it? That's all I have left?

Oh, Lord have mercy!

We have discussed this for 3 years. We have kept our options open. We knew that unless God directed otherwise, the children would return to public high school. It was never in my vision to homeschool all the way through. I wasn't against it, I just didn't see it.

We started talking last year & knew deep down that he would probably return in the 7th grade. The boy LOVES football! And unfortunately, here in NC, he can no longer participate after the 6th grade. Now, wait. Football was NOT the deciding factor, but it is important. So that led to the possibility of him returning for 6th grade. EVERYONE would be adjusting to the newness then & it would be an easier transition.

I thought we were settled on continuing homeschool in the 6th grade when Austin told me one day he wasn't ready to go back yet. I didn't even second guess things as I purchased our 2013-2014 curriculum. But maybe this completely explains my lack of desire & motivation for planning out our year!

Justin & I are at peace with this decision. My baby is growing up & I know he will be fine!

As for his books, I think I will just keep them. I have 2 more behind him, & 1 who says she is NEVER going to public school. ;) We shall see.

This also frees me up to focus on Makenzie & her reading. So that is a definite plus!

YES, I am nervous! YES, I am excited! YES, I will worry! YES, I'm sure I will cry! But, YES, I WILL TRUST GOD!!!

PLEASE pray for my family as we all transition over to being on someone else's schedule & having to follow the rules. PLEASE pray that Austin adjusts well & makes wise decisions. PLEASE pray that I allow him to grow & mature in his own way. Most importantly, PLEASE pray that we follow God's will!

A New Discovery

I am exhausted!

I'm still tired even though it's the next day!

It's been a while since I have been this bone tired.

I took the kids to The Discovery Place in Charlotte yesterday. Have you ever been? Oh you NEED to go!! This was our first time & I was overwhelmed!

By looking at the map of the museum, it honestly doesn't look that big. BUT, once you get there, the fun just keeps going & going & going (especially the 2nd floor)!

They have a special room for kids under 7 to play, explore, & run around. It took Logan all of 2 minutes once we entered this area to become soaking wet while playing in the water area. OOPS, I didn't anticipate that. Oh well, it didn't seem to bother him.

There were many different areas where the kids could learn about all sorts of animals, from fish to birds to frogs. We dissected owl pellets, tried to balance eggs like a penguin, & examined molted parts of a tarantula under a microscope. They even got to touch horseshoe crabs, starfish, & a snake.

They made creations out of duct tape. laid on a bed of nails, propelled themselves into the air with a rocket chair, & tried to lift their body weight through a series of pulleys. We balanced balls on columns of air, sent shredded paper into a vacuum & flying into the air, & played tug of war.

They learned how to build shelters & why it is necessary. We built, knocked down, & rebuilt various structures out of blocks. We played trivia games & tried to figure out where in the world they were just from a picture. They learned that germs are everywhere.

They played in a submarine, found out which bugs were the slimiest, learned just how gross flies really are. We tried to save frogs from certain doom, fought bug against bug in order to have bragging rights, & saw the inside workings of a cow's numerous stomachs. They matched animals to their piles of poop & were completely surprised by how long tape worms really are.

We watched a turtle's trip to paradise & saw lions in Africa up close & personal. We watched fire change colors.

Can you tell we all had a great time?!

The best part about it, they were learning without realizing it!

We could easily spend a whole week trying to learn and investigate everything The Discovery Place had to offer. I think I'll make my hubby go next time too.

4H Competitions

Yesterday, I sent my oldest son to Raleigh with a group of 4Hers for the poultry judging competition. These are all good kids who enjoy many things relating to the farm & country living. These kids are some of our leaders for the future.

Their hard work & effort paid off. Both the Jr & the Sr teams placed 5th among all the teams. One of our Jr members came in 5th place and Austin finished 3rd out of all the Jrs.

When I was starting to write this post, I realized that I had forgotten to write about the last competition.....

Last month, we attended Congress at NC State University. This is several days of presentations, competitions, & fun. Austin attended Congress last year, but this was his very first time giving a presentation.

Austin chose dirt bike safety. Its something that he knows and loves so that made it a little easier. Public speaking is something that most adults struggle with. Just about every profession involves it to some degree. This is a great opportunity for him to become comfortable talking in front of a room full of people.

After winning gold in the 9-10 year old safety division for our district, he had a guaranteed spot to compete at the state level. When we arrived for the state competition, we found out that he had been moved up to the 11-13 division because he had a birthday. We had nervous expectations to say the least. Amazingly, he brought home a bronze medal.

I am proud of him. He continues to impress me. He has so many opportunities & interests that I never had as a child.

If you have a young child, I strongly encourage you to look into joining a local 4H group. It has been nothing but a positive experience for my children.

The Busy Homeschool Mom

Anyone that has been around me for any period of time knows that I just adore Heidi St. John. She offers so much experience & good sound advice on everything from homeschooling to parenting to being "THAT girl" for your husband.

Just today, I found out that she was following me on Pinterest! ME!!! I don't have nearly as much knowledge & grace as she does, but I am honored!

I had the privilege to meet her a few years ago at the NCHE Homeschool Conference. Check out her take on The Busy Mom's Guide to Romance and REAL LIFE Homeschooling. My post on Toddlers, Tweens, & Teens, Oh My is STILL my number 1 read post.

Drop by The Busy Mom for a visit. I'm sure you will walk away a little lighter.

I Think I Will Take a Little Vacation Too

My oldest 2 kids have been attending Vacation Bible School at a neighboring church this week. They always enjoy going to Bible School, but they especially look forward to this one. This is a large church that a lot of their friends attend, so they learn biblical truths while rekindling friendships. Its a win win.

I have enjoyed myself this week as well. I have so much that is screaming for my attention right now that I'm having a hard time concentrating.

I am participating in the Ultimate Blog Challenge which is overworking my creativity to post something every single day in July. I am finishing up tagging clothes for a consignment sale in a few weeks. I have over 60 hairbows to complete (this month). I need to make 2 flower girl dresses for a wedding in August. I need to finish my Virtue Training Bible so I can write my review & post my giveaway! We have started remodeling the dining room. The tin for the new roof was delivered yesterday. We were supposed to pick up a pool yesterday as well, but that fell through which means we are still on the lookout for a pool. Planning on getting the roof on tonight & tomorrow. We are going camping next week. Austin has a trip to Raleigh next week. I have a vendor show in 2 weeks. Cheer leading starts back up next week. And I really need to start planning our school year!

So with all those things to choose from, you would think I would take advantage of the "extra" time while the kids were gone. Nope! You would be wrong! Instead, I have laid Logan down for bed a few minutes early & have truly enjoyed the quiet!

Now, excuse me, I'm sure that something needs to be done!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ What's in a Name?

Before you had kids, did you already have names picked out? Did you pictured what they would look like & how they would behave?

When you were expecting your children were you able to pick out their names then or did you struggle to find the perfect one? Were you one of those that never questioned the name you chose or did you wait to meet your miracle in the hopes that their personality would help determine a moniker?

What about pets, do you find yourself going with the same ole boring names? Or do you try to have a one of a kind pooch?

I named my oldest when I was still in high school before I ever met my husband. I knew I wanted a little boy named Austin Tyler and we would call him Ty. Well, I got my Austin but his middle name is Dale after his daddy & grandpa.

When I was expecting Austin, Justin & I settled on Makenzie Leah if we ever had a girl. Her middle name is a tribute to my grandmother Cora Lee & Justin's grandmother Grace Leigh.

We struggled for 7 months to name Logan. Nothing sounded right & we just couldn't agree on anything. Finally, Logan Reece just seems to roll right off the tongue.

Looking at my kids today, they "look" like their names. I couldn't imagine calling them anything else. I'm sure you feel the same way about your kids.

Does it REALLY matter in the long run?

Romeo & Juliet knew that a name wasn't nearly as important as their families thought. But a name & circumstances were what tore them apart.

"What's in a name? that which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet;"

In the state of NC, it is a requirement to name our homeschool. I had a hard time with this. I wanted to find the perfect name for our family. Something that would tell our story, something that would express our beliefs, somewhere that our kids could be proud of graduating from. 

I kept returning to Isaiah 40:31 "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

This is one of my favorite Bible verses, but it just didn't seem right for us. Then something came to me. I told Justin to pray & tell me his thoughts because I wanted God to show both of us. 

Music is a big part of who I am & how I express myself. It always has been. Its nothing new for me to get a song stuck in my head for days or to listen to the lyrics & dive much deeper than your average person would with its meaning.

When I realized that I had a song stuck in my head that I haven't even heard in years, it stopped me in my tracks. I asked Justin if he had given any more thought about our homeschool name. He didn't have an ideas, but he just couldn't get away from Grace.

ding ding ding - We have a winner!

I had clung to 1st Corinthians 15:10 sometime back, "But by the grace of God I am what I am", so this became the verse that represented our school.

So Grace of God Christian Academy was born.

Oh, by the way, that song that was stuck in my head..... 

And just for the fun of it....HERE is a post I wrote on names a few years ago.

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ 2013 - 2014 Curriculum

Hello out there in blogger world! Are you soaking up the sun every chance you get just as I am?

With all of this glorious hot weather & these lazy pool days, I really don't want to start thinking about school. But C'est la vie. Think, I do & plan, I must soon.

So let's talk about what curriculum choices we will be using for the upcoming year.

 Let's start with the obvious here. This will be our 4th year with Tapestry of Grace & Story of the World. Do you KNOW what that means? (come on history cycle users, help me out here...) I DON'T HAVE TO BUY HISTORY ANYMORE!!! **happy dance**

That's right TOG is on a 4 year cycle. So next year I start back with teaching year 2 (which I have already purchased!) Oh, don't worry, I'm sure I will find something to use that , um, extra money on.

We love using TOG. I even found the Pop Quiz CDs at The Homeschool Gathering Place while we were in Raleigh last week. WE have also been blessed to be able to get copies of SOTW on CD. This is a great alternative to me having to read everything!

We will continue memorizing important events in history with the timeline cards by Veritas Press. This is a fun way for the kids (& myself) to remember those events. And you WILL be amazed at how much they learn!

Since we are studying Ancient Rome, Ancient Egypt, & Bible Times, I picked up a few art books to go along with it. Draw and Write Through History is filled with art lessons, information, & copywork. They have 6 different books that cover the different eras through out history.

The next easy choice was science. We LOVE Apologia Science. It is one of the few Creationist curriculums out there. I let the kids choose between swimming creatures & land animals this year. They were both good choices, but swimming had my vote as well.

I don't personally use the notebooks. Austin hated it the first year & Makenzie really isn't old enough for it yet.

Hold up! Before you ask. Yes, this is the same Latin that we used last year. Unfortunately Latin wasn't a priority for us last year, so we didn't learn much. Oh well. Let's try it again.

Austin will continue using Teaching Textbooks this year. He still has some of 6 to complete, then he will start on 7. Makenzie will work on Horizons 2. We have never used Horizons before, so we will see how this goes.

We will go back to Easy Grammar with Austin. Learning Language Arts Through Literature just wasn't working for us. He will finish Daily Grams 5 because I didn't enough difference in the 5 & 6 books. Besides he still had plenty of lessons left in 5 to complete.

He will also complete the second half of Jump In by Apologia. This is meant to last over 2 years. I am sort of on the fence with this one. I haven't seen much improvement in his writing this year, but I hate to just give up. I am still praying about Institute for Excellence in Writing's Bible Based Lessons. We tried IEW a few years ago, but he resisted so much. It was our first year homeschooling & I was really trying to pick my battles. IEW was not one I chose to fight over, so we dropped it. I wonder now if he really disliked it, disliked writing in general, or was just pushing my buttons. I don't have a clear answer yet, but I can't get it out of my head, so don't be surprised if we switch to that.

He is also using Wordly Wise 300 again this year. Last year was the first time we used it and he didn't fight it much, so that's a good thing!

Makenzie will be using All About Spelling & All About Reading this year. These are both BRAND NEW to her & me too! (I'm scared! They look so intimidating!) She is still struggling to read, so pray for us both!!

Austin has used Explode the Code before & enjoyed it so I thought I would try it with her this year. They even have an online version that I need to look into.

I have a generic 2nd grade work book for her. She seems to like those. I also found an easy writing curriculum to introduce her to the concept.

So, there you have it in a nutshell.

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Reach for the Stars

I just love using Apologia for science. I never have to worry about the idea of evolution finding its way into our creationist beliefs. Oh, I have explained to my kids that many people believe differently than we do & that scientists think we came from monkeys (Hey moms, how often would that tail come in handy now?!). But we don't believe the stars weren't poofed into existence billions of years ago. My kids know that God created this world we live in in 6 days.

We studied Astronomy this year. I just love looking at the stars on a cool crisp evening. It has always fascinated me.

Unfortunately, I have fallen behind so we are not quite finished with every lesson, but rest assured we will be wrapping up soon after vacation. I WILL make it to an observatory before the summer is over!

It was eye opening to learn a possible reason as to why God created the universe the way He did. We attempted making a telescope out of a box, but failed miserably at it. The description of Mercury reminded me of Pitch Black from The Chronicles of Riddick.

Venus was one of their favorite lessons. Maybe it was because we played in melted butter!

In celebration of planet Earth, we went to the park and played with a compass.

Volcanoes are ALWAYS fun!!!

Click HERE & HERE for more science fun!

Stay tuned through June as we look at the far end of the solar system & find out if Pluto is really a planet or not!

Oh, & make sure to come back next year as we dive underwater with Swimming Creatures of the 5th Day. Maybe I can find something educational on our beach trip!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ History is HISTORY

I have a real problem with commitment. LOL It seems that no matter how hard I try, I just can't "commit" to following a schedule. Yes, I love the flexibility I have to do this, but it also stresses me out because I fall victim to the "Am I doing enough?" "Are my kids learning as much as their public school peers?" "Am I REALLY qualified for this?" questions & self doubt.

But, I am HAPPY to say that we are actually done with history! Yeah!! Now granted, I stuffed A LOT of info in this week, but we got through it.

I haven't stressed before when we didn't complete history before summer, because I would just pick up where we left off. That would be difficult this time because we were in year 4 of Tapestry of Grace. In August, we start all over again with the beginning of time, so discussing Obama one week followed by ancient civilizations the next could be a little confusing.

We still have a few lessons in Science. *sigh* I REALLY need to take a trip to an observatory!

I had a great time at the NCHE Homeschool Conference on Friday. I decided to only go to the book fair this year. Since I was in Winston anyway, I also swung by Ollies & Gullions. I love love love looking at books!!

I also stopped by Barnes & Noble to drop off the kids' summer reading lists & picked up a few FREEBIES!! *Your kid only has to log down 8 books, take to your local B&N, & pick out a FREE book!* FREE is GOOD!!

I found a book from Buzz Aldrin about his trip to space, a few books on our summer list, and several missionary stories from YWAM. I picked up several different titles relevant to Tapestry of Grace next year. Finally decided on Makenzie's math (Horizons 2), & finished buying Austin's LA.

Oh yeah & I was blessed to be able to buy All About Reading Level 1 thanks to a used curriculum email that I receive!

Austin has been attending football camp for most of this week so that has worn him out. The summer kids movies also started this week. Fun Fun.

I am calling an end to our post card project as well. Even though, we did not get a post card from everyone who originally signed up, we still received enough to call it a success. 

SHHHH - Don't look for me next week. I will have my toes buried in the sand!! Its been 5 long years since we have been to the beach as a family!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Bees, Summer, & Blessings

May is such a strange month for us. We are trying to finish up school, while trying to keep from being too excited because summer is right around the corner. Concentration is somewhat harder once the heat cranks up! LOL

So, that being said, I guess that the Grace of God Christian Academy is officially on a lightened summer schedule! 

We will continue to read literary classics all summer. Makenzie will work mainly on reading, while Austin does math & writes a few times a week. We have too many "plans" (ie, fun activities) to fulfill a strenuous academic schedule during the hot days of summer.

We do still have several decades of history to complete before we jump back to the beginning of time next year. We also have a couple of lessons in science to finish. I don't stress too much about any other book not being completed. I know that the beginning of a new year always reviews so it balances out.

Now, back to this past week.

We finished reading The Outsiders & are planning to watch the movie tonight. YEAH! Of course, I got all teary towards the end. It happens to the best of us. ;)

We discussed Nixon's Watergate, Ford's forgettable term & Betty's desire to help women struggling with addiction. We learned that Jimmy Carter battled through an energy crisis and Reagan's plan to reduce debt & help the economy failed miserably. Hey, did you know Ronald Reagan was a movie star? Me neither!

We celebrated the last day of public school with popsicles outside! Then we enjoyed friends at the park and a homemade waterslide. Oh and a particularly proud momma moment - Austin & a friend were playing with a little boy's ball at the park & accidentally lost it. After looking in the bushes for a long time, he asked me if we could give him one of the balls in our car to replace it. (*sigh* sometimes I guess I am doing the right thing with these kids)

Poor Logan got the short end of the stick after Austin tortured a "bumble bee". I was brought a screaming youngin, then I was brought the dead bee. What they thought was a bumble bee because it was furry turned out to be a Japanese Hornet! His poor fingered swelled up twice its normal size!

Tomorrow I get to go to the NCHE Conference in Winston Salem! YEAH! I'm not actually sitting in on any of the speakers this year, but I get to stroll around the book fair BY MYSELF ALL DAY LONG!! Then I get to go on a DATE with my hubby!

Stay tuned to see what kind of awesome deals I pick up!

As I look back on this week, even through my troubles & trials, I can't help but be reminded that I am blessed far more than I deserve! Far too many people woke up this morning after losing everything they own. Far too many people woke up this morning in hospitals. Far too many people woke up this morning with broken hearts because someone they love can no longer wake up.

Why God continues to bless me, I'm not sure, but I'm thankful He does!

How is Your Vision?

I admit that from time to time, my vision becomes blurry.

Anyone who wears glasses must take care of them in order for them to work properly. If you don't, things will start to appear distorted, fuzzy, or spotted.

I don't have a problem with my eyesight. I have a problem with my vision. There is a difference. Just like a pair of glasses after they have been left on the bathroom sink for any length of time must have the hairspray residue, water spots, dirt, & grime cleaned off of them, I need to have my vision cleaned as well. I don't mean to neglect it, but as time goes on, my vision just becomes more & more out of perspective.

Every night of our revival last week touched on the vision. The church needs a vision, the Christian needs a vision, the family needs a vision. All of these are important. Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, the people perish:..."

While I am very concerned with where our church is going, I need to concentrate on my Christian walk, my family, & my homeschool right now so I am available to be the pastor's wife that God wants me to be. My vision seems to have become blinded lately. I have forgotten who I am, where I am going, & why I have chosen this path.

Its easy to get caught up in the day to day insanity & lose focus on what's truly important. Our vision falls to the wayside. We forget our purpose. 

We I need to reevaluate.

We I need to remember.

We I need to refocus my vision.

I needed this reminder.

When was the last time you planted something & expected immediate results? No. The harvest will come & when it does, it will be worth it!

Remember, weary one, we are in this for the long haul. We are perfecting Kingdom work!

Tales of a Homeschool Nothing ~ Miles, Tag, & Vietnam

We have had revival at church this week. I love revival, but it tends to wear you out. We probably should have called off school this week, but getting a little bit accomplished was better than none.

We logged well over 1,000 miles this week!! So, its no wonder we only accomplished a little bit.

Saturday, we went to the Wilkes Heritage Museum, saw the Huey Helicopter, & toured the museum. I have never been inside the museum before so this was a real treat. We are even famous: here, oh & we were in the paper!  That's my, um, best side to the camera. I'm even advertising for our church!

We finished studying Vietnam this week so that helicopter was perfect timing!

An interesting tidbit - Pizza Hut, Domino's, & Little Ceasar's all opened for business within 3 years of each other. Wal-mart & K-Mart also opened the same year. We added these, plus the frisbee, flip flops, tab top aluminum cans, Barbie dolls, G.I. Joes, & instant cameras to our invention books.

Our Explorers club went to Bo's Thursday. This was another first for my family, we were not disappointed. 3.5 hours of kids running wild with unlimited fun - bowling, putt putt, arcade, & laser tag. If you are local & have never been, this is a trip that is well worth it!

I took advantage of another curriculum sale on Friday. I found well over $200 worth of books for around $40. I just LOVE looking for good deals!

I almost forgot.....we found a bird's nest this week. It was in Justin's dirt bike helmet! I guess it has been a while since the last time he rode!

I had the privilege of speaking to two different women this week who blessed me more than words can say. One is a new friend, whom just by speaking with her, reminded me just how blessed I truly am. The other is a long time friend who encourages everyone she encounters without even realizing it.

I've had one of those weeks where I've felt like I was failing at every thing that I attempted to do, so these talks came right on time.

Then I heard Amy Grant's new song "Don't Try So Hard" & felt like it was made just for me!

It's important to remember that I don't have all the answers, I don't have all the solutions, & I don't have to do it all, all the time. Sometimes, school will get done with no interruptions. Sometimes, my house will be spotless. Sometimes, my laundry will be clean, dried, & put away. Sometimes, my business will be thriving. Sometimes, the world will stop turning just so I can enjoy my kids. Sometimes, my relationship with my Savior will thrive. Most days, only 1 or 2 of these will occur at the same time. Some days, none of them will work out. But everyday, "God gives you grace and you can't earn it. Don't think that you're not worth it."