My mom and I took off last Friday for a whirlwind trip to Knoxville. We had a wonderful day, and the twins really enjoyed the break from "school". As we were coming home, mom was telling me about somebody that they eat breakfast with regularly, and the conversation turned to a boy (her words) that I went to high school with. After 20 years, I don't consider him a boy anymore, but to her he still is. Apparently, mom and dad had gone to a car show as a promise to this "boy"'s father (the breakfast buddy). When my mom walked up, he looked up at her and said, out of the blue, "you're Anita's mom, aren't you?". When she replied "yes", he proceeded to tell his mother that I was the one that took him under my wing and helped him out in high school.
Well..... after about 20 minutes, I am fairly certain I know who she's talking about. Even though I now know Rodney's name, I still have no memory whatsoever of taking him on as a class pet! Apparently, we had lunch together and I took him around the cafeteria and showed him where to go, how to pay, what not to eat, and let him sit with me and my friends. Folks - I have no memory of this. None. Nada. Nothing. But that's not the important part - Rodney does.
That was my lesson to pass on to my future generations. That was my 'ah-ha!' moment for the week. It is so important that L and S learn now that how they treat others has a profound impact on their memories. How easily he could have had bad memories of me. He could have remembered how I was mean to him, pushed him down the stairs, etc. Now ... am I tooting my own horn?? Goodness no!!!!! Like I said - I have no memory of doing/saying anything to Rodney. And that's the point. He has a good memory of me, but does everyone in my past??? Nope. Nada. And that breaks my heart. I have bad memories of childhood bullies, and to be honest, I'm not fond of them to this day. I remember the youth group at the church where I grew up. They were all 2 years older than me, and they never included me. I know... wah wah wah Anita. It didn't ruin my life, but it did shape it - I hope for the better. I remember how it feels to be left out, even to this day, and I don't like it. And I'll be honest, I don't like Richard - he was the ring leader. He went out of his way to make my life miserable. I hated church because of him. I don't hate him, but I don't like him, either. See where I'm going with this?? I could have been a Richard to someone. I don't want to do that. I don't want to be that. I don't want to be the one that people try to hide from in the grocery store. I don't want to be someone that people avoid, or roll their eyes and breathe a sigh of relief when they walk away.
A good friend that I used to go to church with was teaching our youth class during VBS and everyone had to say something good about someone else. I haven't had an abundance of nice things said about me during the course of my life - at least none I could hear. Imagine my utter shock when she picked me, and then said that the thing she liked about me was that I was the same, no matter where I was or who I was with. I treated everyone the same. I've never forgotten that. I try to continue to live up to those words, although I fail miserably at times!!!
I want these lessons to sink in, while their brain is still flexible enough to absorb them. I want them to realize that the world doesn't revolve around them. I want them to know that their actions today affect tomorrow's outcome. I want them to grieve when they hurt someone. I want them to embrace "I'm sorry", because they need to say it often. I want them to love the unlovable. I want them to forgive.
I want them to be better than me.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Well... You knew I would...
I must address this election, but from the standpoint of the education of my children (since this is their blog).
We voted yesterday - I say "we" because "we" three went to vote. They stood beside me as I talked them through the process. I had told them the importance of voting, how many people suffered and died for our freedom to vote (and to Shelby, the women that worked hard for us). We voted for Mitt Romney. I'm not ashamed of that, or afraid to tell you. If you voted for Obama, I don't care. We made that decision together, based on the knowledge of a 38 year old mom and two 9 year old students. I based my opinion on one simple thing: Is America better now than 4 years ago? To me - the answer is "no". They agreed, although Shelby said it didn't matter to her who won. That's just who she is. My sweet, kindhearted Shelby.
We voted, and went on with our day. Tuesdays (as you know) are Zoo days. They went to mamaw's house afterwards and I came home to do all my mom stuff. They came home last night, got ready for bed, we read part of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and then it was off to bed.
They never asked about the election, and I never mentioned it. It's 10 a.m. this morning, and they STILL haven't asked about it. To be honest, I'm afraid to tell them. I think they will be extremely disappointed that 'their' person didn't win.
Now really - can't we all learn a lesson from these two children? They did their job, they voted (well.... through me) and then they moved on. They are more secure than we as adults are.
Of course, they don't have the worries that this world offers. They don't have to worry about insurance, or the price of milk, or gas, or a house payment, or their job in this shaky economy. They're children.
Would you go back and read that last paragraph again? Would you listen to what's being said around you? How sad God must be. When He said in Phillipians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.", He meant that.
Do you really think that He didn't KNOW what would happen last night? Did anyone stop and think that this might actually be in His will??
I've read the end of the book - we win. However, there are things that must transpire. God KNEW what a state our country would be in. He KNEW that we would become a Godless nation. He KNOWS what events will happen in the future, in what order. I would LOVE to say that we as Christians could rise up together and take this nation back for the Lord. In all honesty, we could, if we wanted to. But, God KNEW all those years ago that this wouldn't be the case. We don't want it bad enough. Hence - the last book of the Book. Events must happen to bring about the end. That's simply the way it is. I firmly believe that we must have a Godless, spineless jellyfish in office to turn power over to the face of pure evil. Am I predicting the future? No. Not even Jesus knows the hour of His coming. I'm simply saying that this country will continue to decline. It's scripture. It will happen.
I'm not looking forward to the possibilities of the next four years, but I will tell you this one thing. I would rather live here for four more years of Obamarule than to live here for seven years of the tribulation. My house is in order. And now it's time for me to make sure my neighbor's house is in order, too.
So - who will join me? Who will decide today that this world is temporary, and not worth the effort to worry over? Who will focus on the souls to save and not the Dow Jones Industrial Average?
I am much less in FaceBook and much more in THE Book. It's the only way any of us is getting out of here alive.
We voted yesterday - I say "we" because "we" three went to vote. They stood beside me as I talked them through the process. I had told them the importance of voting, how many people suffered and died for our freedom to vote (and to Shelby, the women that worked hard for us). We voted for Mitt Romney. I'm not ashamed of that, or afraid to tell you. If you voted for Obama, I don't care. We made that decision together, based on the knowledge of a 38 year old mom and two 9 year old students. I based my opinion on one simple thing: Is America better now than 4 years ago? To me - the answer is "no". They agreed, although Shelby said it didn't matter to her who won. That's just who she is. My sweet, kindhearted Shelby.
We voted, and went on with our day. Tuesdays (as you know) are Zoo days. They went to mamaw's house afterwards and I came home to do all my mom stuff. They came home last night, got ready for bed, we read part of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and then it was off to bed.
They never asked about the election, and I never mentioned it. It's 10 a.m. this morning, and they STILL haven't asked about it. To be honest, I'm afraid to tell them. I think they will be extremely disappointed that 'their' person didn't win.
Now really - can't we all learn a lesson from these two children? They did their job, they voted (well.... through me) and then they moved on. They are more secure than we as adults are.
Of course, they don't have the worries that this world offers. They don't have to worry about insurance, or the price of milk, or gas, or a house payment, or their job in this shaky economy. They're children.
Would you go back and read that last paragraph again? Would you listen to what's being said around you? How sad God must be. When He said in Phillipians 4:6 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.", He meant that.
Do you really think that He didn't KNOW what would happen last night? Did anyone stop and think that this might actually be in His will??
I've read the end of the book - we win. However, there are things that must transpire. God KNEW what a state our country would be in. He KNEW that we would become a Godless nation. He KNOWS what events will happen in the future, in what order. I would LOVE to say that we as Christians could rise up together and take this nation back for the Lord. In all honesty, we could, if we wanted to. But, God KNEW all those years ago that this wouldn't be the case. We don't want it bad enough. Hence - the last book of the Book. Events must happen to bring about the end. That's simply the way it is. I firmly believe that we must have a Godless, spineless jellyfish in office to turn power over to the face of pure evil. Am I predicting the future? No. Not even Jesus knows the hour of His coming. I'm simply saying that this country will continue to decline. It's scripture. It will happen.
I'm not looking forward to the possibilities of the next four years, but I will tell you this one thing. I would rather live here for four more years of Obamarule than to live here for seven years of the tribulation. My house is in order. And now it's time for me to make sure my neighbor's house is in order, too.
So - who will join me? Who will decide today that this world is temporary, and not worth the effort to worry over? Who will focus on the souls to save and not the Dow Jones Industrial Average?
I am much less in FaceBook and much more in THE Book. It's the only way any of us is getting out of here alive.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Beezy, Beezy, Beezy!!
It's Thursday, and and I think we might be getting back into our routine, just in time for the weekend. We've been learning, but outside our little classroom. I can tell you that 3 field trips wrapped around an extremely busy weekend do tend to make mommy a little tired. In facet, I'm yawning right now!
I was with a homeschool mom/friend on Tuesday and we were talking about - you guessed it - homeschool. She and I have come to the conclusion that life is a really good classroom. Now - don't get me wrong. I am a firm believer in learning from a book. I think children should memorize their multiplication facts and be able to write in cursive and know a noun from a verb. I also think that they should be allowed creativity and freedom of expression in their writing and art. I think silence is not golden and noise is ok. I think it's ok to talk during a test, as long as you're not giving out answers. I don't think the government knows better than I what's best for my child. I knew things about these two the second they were born because I already KNEW them.
I find that I am spending less time preaching to my children and more time teaching them. It's important that they do their science workbooks (which is what they're doing now as I watch) but it's just as important that they learn to put their best work into their workbooks. Cut the lines straight, glue everything the right way, follow the directions, and learn to find the answers for yourself in the book.
I must keep reminding myself that, as much as I would love to keep them this size (or smaller!!) forever, my job is to grow these two into productive members of society, able to take care of themselves and able to stand on the faith that we have instilled in them. They must be able to live in this world while not being IN the world. They must be able to get a job and keep that job. They must be able to play well with others, and they must be able to keep their mouth tightly closed most of the time. I hope that during this process, I teach them things I wish I had known. I hope they learn to pray about decisions before they make one. I hope that they talk to God more than they talk to other people. I hope they always pray before they eat, no matter who is around.
Children do come with a manual, you know. It's a very, very old book.
I was with a homeschool mom/friend on Tuesday and we were talking about - you guessed it - homeschool. She and I have come to the conclusion that life is a really good classroom. Now - don't get me wrong. I am a firm believer in learning from a book. I think children should memorize their multiplication facts and be able to write in cursive and know a noun from a verb. I also think that they should be allowed creativity and freedom of expression in their writing and art. I think silence is not golden and noise is ok. I think it's ok to talk during a test, as long as you're not giving out answers. I don't think the government knows better than I what's best for my child. I knew things about these two the second they were born because I already KNEW them.
I find that I am spending less time preaching to my children and more time teaching them. It's important that they do their science workbooks (which is what they're doing now as I watch) but it's just as important that they learn to put their best work into their workbooks. Cut the lines straight, glue everything the right way, follow the directions, and learn to find the answers for yourself in the book.
I must keep reminding myself that, as much as I would love to keep them this size (or smaller!!) forever, my job is to grow these two into productive members of society, able to take care of themselves and able to stand on the faith that we have instilled in them. They must be able to live in this world while not being IN the world. They must be able to get a job and keep that job. They must be able to play well with others, and they must be able to keep their mouth tightly closed most of the time. I hope that during this process, I teach them things I wish I had known. I hope they learn to pray about decisions before they make one. I hope that they talk to God more than they talk to other people. I hope they always pray before they eat, no matter who is around.
Children do come with a manual, you know. It's a very, very old book.
Monday, October 15, 2012
A surprise for mom .....
This is really all the blog I need to post today - it makes it all worthwhile!! 
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Blogging in the Rain
No... really. I wasn't trying to be cute with the title. It's raining outside.
A good friend sent me a message last week (eek!) and with much kindness told me that she missed my blog posts and was eagerly looking forward to another. It's been a month! I didn't really think anyone liked them, so thank you. Thank you for finding my life more interesting than I do ;)
I hate to admit it. Really - I HATE to admit this - but I have become one of THOSE people. I have read many, many blogs over the past few months/year. Most of these blogger moms talk about putting aside a specific time to write, and even make notes during the week so they won't forget. I used to think "man! what a goober!", but now I now understand! I also have a note of things I've written down over the past month so I wouldn't forget. Guess what? I would have forgotten if I hadn't written it down. *sigh* I love getting old.
I now wonder how we had time to go to public school. Our days have been super busy with life, and living it. We took a grandparent field trip to Biltmore at the end of September for homeschool days. It was a long and exhausting day and we loved every minute of it! We also went to Andrew Johnson's home in Greeneville. If you've never been, I highly recommend you go, even if you have no children to take along. I am learning more since starting this school adventure than my children are! Ok, maybe not MORE, but definitely as much. History is coming alive to me now, in a way that it never did from inside a textbook. And, more importantly, it is coming alive in the eyes of my tots.
From the non-school side, we've still been busy. L and S have learned to ride their bikes - FINALLY!! I have found papaw to be the best teacher in matters such as these. We also participated as a family in the great garage re-do. Frankly, I was just sick and tired of having to eject myself through the moon roof of my car to get in the house. I cleaned up, paired down and re-organized. I've also re-arranged my bedroom furniture and cleaned the windows. I've always been an odd duck (and you don't have to verbalize your agreement) but I'm the only one I know that does her spring cleaning in the fall. I think it's just a matter of I can't stand the thought of being cooped up in this house all winter looking at junk.
I'm looking forward to fall. I like pumpkin and cinnamon smells in the kitchen and sweaters and falling leaves. I like putting my blanket in the dryer to get snuggly warm before settling down in front of the TV with a good book and a cup of coffee. I like socks and sweatpants. I like the quiet of moonlight. I like that my children are still small enough to wear those cute little pajamas to bed. You know the ones I mean? The ones with cuffs at the hands and feet. I don't care that they're 4+ feet tall and weigh 65+ pounds each - when they wear those pj's, they still look like toddlers to me and I get to remember.
Alas... life does go on. Today is a big day in the homeschool world. We are headed to the Knoxville Botanical gardens to tag Monarch butterflies. I'm sure I will have some good photos to go with these memories!
This morning, S asked me how much the moon was worth. Thinking I was about to have a great philosophical debate, I started to sit down. That's when L pips up and says "A dollar?" I started to say "no" when he continued with "you know? because it has 4 quarters??" -- Insert rolled eyes here.
A good friend and I have been having several discussions lately about James 3. When you get a chance, I suggest you read it.
I also highly recommend "Sun Stand Still" by Steven Furtick and "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. Who needs Barnes and Noble when you have me?? ;)
Happy October 9th everyone. Remember to smile, remember to laugh, and remember to never take life for granted or too seriously - ain't none of us gettin' out of here alive!!
A good friend sent me a message last week (eek!) and with much kindness told me that she missed my blog posts and was eagerly looking forward to another. It's been a month! I didn't really think anyone liked them, so thank you. Thank you for finding my life more interesting than I do ;)
I hate to admit it. Really - I HATE to admit this - but I have become one of THOSE people. I have read many, many blogs over the past few months/year. Most of these blogger moms talk about putting aside a specific time to write, and even make notes during the week so they won't forget. I used to think "man! what a goober!", but now I now understand! I also have a note of things I've written down over the past month so I wouldn't forget. Guess what? I would have forgotten if I hadn't written it down. *sigh* I love getting old.
I now wonder how we had time to go to public school. Our days have been super busy with life, and living it. We took a grandparent field trip to Biltmore at the end of September for homeschool days. It was a long and exhausting day and we loved every minute of it! We also went to Andrew Johnson's home in Greeneville. If you've never been, I highly recommend you go, even if you have no children to take along. I am learning more since starting this school adventure than my children are! Ok, maybe not MORE, but definitely as much. History is coming alive to me now, in a way that it never did from inside a textbook. And, more importantly, it is coming alive in the eyes of my tots.
From the non-school side, we've still been busy. L and S have learned to ride their bikes - FINALLY!! I have found papaw to be the best teacher in matters such as these. We also participated as a family in the great garage re-do. Frankly, I was just sick and tired of having to eject myself through the moon roof of my car to get in the house. I cleaned up, paired down and re-organized. I've also re-arranged my bedroom furniture and cleaned the windows. I've always been an odd duck (and you don't have to verbalize your agreement) but I'm the only one I know that does her spring cleaning in the fall. I think it's just a matter of I can't stand the thought of being cooped up in this house all winter looking at junk.
I'm looking forward to fall. I like pumpkin and cinnamon smells in the kitchen and sweaters and falling leaves. I like putting my blanket in the dryer to get snuggly warm before settling down in front of the TV with a good book and a cup of coffee. I like socks and sweatpants. I like the quiet of moonlight. I like that my children are still small enough to wear those cute little pajamas to bed. You know the ones I mean? The ones with cuffs at the hands and feet. I don't care that they're 4+ feet tall and weigh 65+ pounds each - when they wear those pj's, they still look like toddlers to me and I get to remember.
Alas... life does go on. Today is a big day in the homeschool world. We are headed to the Knoxville Botanical gardens to tag Monarch butterflies. I'm sure I will have some good photos to go with these memories!
This morning, S asked me how much the moon was worth. Thinking I was about to have a great philosophical debate, I started to sit down. That's when L pips up and says "A dollar?" I started to say "no" when he continued with "you know? because it has 4 quarters??" -- Insert rolled eyes here.
A good friend and I have been having several discussions lately about James 3. When you get a chance, I suggest you read it.
I also highly recommend "Sun Stand Still" by Steven Furtick and "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. Who needs Barnes and Noble when you have me?? ;)
Happy October 9th everyone. Remember to smile, remember to laugh, and remember to never take life for granted or too seriously - ain't none of us gettin' out of here alive!!
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Nothing Lasts Forever..
I knew it was bound to happen eventually. I mean, really ~ how long did I truly expect this streak to last? Roads and good intentions... you know the saying, right? I tried - really I did. Unfortunately, this usually happens at least twice a year.
I made a mistake.
Ok...ok ... if you know me at all, you can hear my voice and the silliness dripping from this! Mistakes?? Oh my word ~ by the HOUR!!
I admit it. I told my students something in error. Blame it on lack of sleep, too much to do, looking forward to Friday... pick your poison. The fact remains that I made a boo-boo! I'd been doing so well, too ...... insert starry-eyed gaze here.
They took it well, especially since I offered to help them fix my mistake. Fortunately, it was comma placement and not life-altering.
Ah.... alas. I shall not win teacher/mother of the year.
I knew at the beginning of this venture that I would learn more than they did. I guess the proof is in the pudding, huh?
Each day is a new opportunity .... What I do with it is up to the choices I make... and the blessings God gives me.
I cannot change the world, but I CAN change me...
I made a mistake.
Ok...ok ... if you know me at all, you can hear my voice and the silliness dripping from this! Mistakes?? Oh my word ~ by the HOUR!!
I admit it. I told my students something in error. Blame it on lack of sleep, too much to do, looking forward to Friday... pick your poison. The fact remains that I made a boo-boo! I'd been doing so well, too ...... insert starry-eyed gaze here.
They took it well, especially since I offered to help them fix my mistake. Fortunately, it was comma placement and not life-altering.
Ah.... alas. I shall not win teacher/mother of the year.
I knew at the beginning of this venture that I would learn more than they did. I guess the proof is in the pudding, huh?
Each day is a new opportunity .... What I do with it is up to the choices I make... and the blessings God gives me.
I cannot change the world, but I CAN change me...
Friday, September 7, 2012
O.O
Bug-eyed. Some days, that's just how I feel!
Perhaps it's the lack of sleep I've had or the silly giggles I've been involved in recently, but this particular lesson just can't be done soon enough!
The entire idea of homeschooling is being able to teach your children in ways that suit their particular learning style. I have a logical learner and a literary or language-oriented learner. I thought today would be a good day to drag out the legos and build a ziggurat. You don't know what that is? No worries - neither did I. We were learning about the Sumerians and their civilization, and the had built ziggurats. Google it. It's good reading. If you need help falling asleep. Sorry - truth!
I can't say that this went as planned. You would think that, with a box of 9 MILLION lego pieces, there wouldn't be any arguments... right? I mean, that's 4.5 million for each child. Well.. guess what? Yep. There was only one of a particular piece and they both wanted it. Enter bug eyes!
Some days seem endless -
My patience grows thin.
Why was I chosen
To be mother of twins?
Kudos to mom for not flushing them both down the toilet. Crisis was averted with a calm voice (pat my OWN back!!), and as I type this, they are working together to help each other's ziggurat be the best it can be. I don't think the Egyptians have anything to worry about. Apparently engineering isn't in the future of either of my students.... I'm not laughing - I swear I'm not. BUT .... somehow they got it in their head that a ziggurat was a church. It wasn't exactly a church. They believe these structures were "houses" for the gods. Although we talked about that some, they are still building Sunday School rooms. Lukas is also pondering the thought of a Smurf choir singing gospel songs in the basement. Now he's looking for speakers. Ok - ok! So I'm laughing just a LITTLE. Eh.... oh well.
I don't know if they will remember the word ziggurat at their graduation ceremony. My vote will be "no". However... I hope ~ scratch that ~ I pray that the lesson they learned here today will be teamwork and forgiveness, as well as a good dose of "don't get frustrated".
Which reminds me ~~ My bible study this morning included a story from Kay Strom. She was talking about signs and wonders. They still happen, you know. How hard do we look for those signs and wonders? We need them stored in our memory banks. When times get tough and the going gets rough, we need to look back at those items in our past to gain some knowledge and strength. It's important to have memories of "Remember when God ....(fill in the blank)" ... I know I have been accessing those memories lately. It's important to remember that He did it before, so we can stand secure that He'll do it again. That brings me back to "don't get frustrated". He's still working on me ~ and you.
Lessons. They hurt sometimes, but aren't you glad we have them??
Thursday, September 6, 2012
A scheduled update
First of all, let me say that the great homeschooling journey is off and running, we are settling into our routines, the twins are learning, thriving, and growing mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. This is all that a mom and a teacher can ask for. We are constantly changing, adding and updating. I guess that's life, right?? I'm excited about their progress.
I want to thank everyone for their prayers and positive comments. This blog is about homeschool, but it is so much more than that. This blog is also about one imperfect woman's journey through life, and the lessons I'm learning along the way. I hope to learn more than my children.
Unfortunately, the need arises for me to copy from my friend David's blog and set a few ground rules;
"Next ground rule, I am going to be blunt. I will not be intentionally rude; I will not get into ad hominem {an attempt to negate the truth of a claim by pointing out a negative characteristic or unrelated belief of the person supporting it} attacks; and I will not spar anonymously with other unnamed people. My opinions are just that; they are opinions and they are mine. It is doubtful that you will change mine, they have been too hard fought and won through the years."
In short, if you are reading this blog, then you probably know me and want to keep updated on me, my life and my family. I will not sink to arguments with anonymous nay-sayers with bad grammar. Posts are not made public on this blog until I approve them, so bad comments will never be seen anyway. If you don't like me, that's ok. An easy solution to that problem is to not read anything else I post.
I apologize to those of you reading this that truly care about me. I realize this isn't my normal type of post, and hopefully this will be the last of its kind.
I intend to take today forward and focus on the positives in my life. I can't stop the personal attacks that have hit me like mortar shells these past few weeks, but I can control my reactions to them. I will continue to do what I have done - ignore them and pray Pray PRAY for those involved. Just in case you were curious, that isn't easy. Is it what I want to do? No. In myself, I don't want to pray for them. I want to call them out on their childish and "anonymous" behavior. But, God's way isn't my way - thank goodness!!! I'm learning and growing every day. I'm learning from my mistakes and growing closer to God. I have a regular prayer time and a Bible time - something that I struggled with before. I'm not what I could be, I'm not what I'm gonna be - but PRAISE THE LORD I'm not what I was.....
Thank you for walking with me on the journey....
I want to thank everyone for their prayers and positive comments. This blog is about homeschool, but it is so much more than that. This blog is also about one imperfect woman's journey through life, and the lessons I'm learning along the way. I hope to learn more than my children.
Unfortunately, the need arises for me to copy from my friend David's blog and set a few ground rules;
"Next ground rule, I am going to be blunt. I will not be intentionally rude; I will not get into ad hominem {an attempt to negate the truth of a claim by pointing out a negative characteristic or unrelated belief of the person supporting it} attacks; and I will not spar anonymously with other unnamed people. My opinions are just that; they are opinions and they are mine. It is doubtful that you will change mine, they have been too hard fought and won through the years."
In short, if you are reading this blog, then you probably know me and want to keep updated on me, my life and my family. I will not sink to arguments with anonymous nay-sayers with bad grammar. Posts are not made public on this blog until I approve them, so bad comments will never be seen anyway. If you don't like me, that's ok. An easy solution to that problem is to not read anything else I post.
I apologize to those of you reading this that truly care about me. I realize this isn't my normal type of post, and hopefully this will be the last of its kind.
I intend to take today forward and focus on the positives in my life. I can't stop the personal attacks that have hit me like mortar shells these past few weeks, but I can control my reactions to them. I will continue to do what I have done - ignore them and pray Pray PRAY for those involved. Just in case you were curious, that isn't easy. Is it what I want to do? No. In myself, I don't want to pray for them. I want to call them out on their childish and "anonymous" behavior. But, God's way isn't my way - thank goodness!!! I'm learning and growing every day. I'm learning from my mistakes and growing closer to God. I have a regular prayer time and a Bible time - something that I struggled with before. I'm not what I could be, I'm not what I'm gonna be - but PRAISE THE LORD I'm not what I was.....
Thank you for walking with me on the journey....
Monday, August 27, 2012
To Judge or Not to Judge.... that is the question??
I have spent several weeks/months reading posts from friends on FaceBook and Pinterest about judging others. This is a nice hot topic and I really wanted to know what the Bible said about the subject, so I've done some digging.
First of all, yes ~ the Bible says not to judge others. But, God is very specific in what He says judging is. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus said “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others.[a] The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged." Well - this is all well and good, isn't it? It sounds like a get-out-of-jail-free card to me. This verse, should that be all there is to it, would allow anyone to do anything and say anything and go anywhere at any time with anyone. Don't speak on it or you're judging. This would be the most perfect "me" based world. What these verses mean, just so there's no question, is that I'm not to judge another person's heart. I am not to decide if that person is a child of God. This isn't my job and I'm not qualified. So, just so we're clear, when you use this verse to justify and action, word or deed that are currently involved in, you don't have God's blessing.
If you dig a little deeper into Matthew, you see a different side to the judging debate. in Matthew 12:33-34, Jesus ALSO said “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad. You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say." Jesus clearly says that we will be known by our fruits. Most people consider this to be our "works" or all the marvelous things we've done. I don't personally agree. I think it's our spiritual fruits. You know what those are, right? Love ~ Joy ~ Peace ~ Patience ~ Kindness ~ Goodness ~ Faithfulness ~ Gentleness ~ Self Control. Go back and read those again. Repeat. Okay - one more time. Do you honestly think that you can do ANY of those on your own? We will know each other by those 9 items. I can't look for those 9 things without some form of judgment. I don't mean criticism and putting myself above others. I mean examining your fruits. If you are a hateful, spiteful, mean spirited, ugly, rude, foul mouthed, antagonistic person, yet you claim to be a Christian, HOW can you POSSIBLY expect no one to question your actions?????
God tells us to avoid certain people with certain problems. "Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people" Proverbs 22:24. {MAN. I wish I had seen this about a year ago. It would have made life easier} I'm not making this up, people. These aren't my words - they're the Lord's. God tells us not to befriend those with angry and hot headed traits. HOW, pray-tell me, do you determine if someone is angry and hot headed WITHOUT judging them?
Hebrews 5:14 "Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." We are to constantly study, learn and grow in the word so that we can recognize right and wrong. If I'm to recognize right and wrong, then a little judging of other's actions will happen. It doesn't mean I'm comparing myself to others in an attempt to build me up, but if someone in my life is living unbecoming to the word and I surround myself with them, they will influence me in a negative way. You do the math - then satan will have TWO of God's saved doing satan's work in Jesus' name. That's a train wreck just waiting to happen. I have to know my stuff. I have to know that, if the Bible says it's right, then it's right. If the Bible says it's wrong, then it's wrong.
We as Christians are not to judge the hearts of others. That's not my call. I don't know if anyone else has a personal relationship with Jesus. That's between them and Jesus. If they say they do, I have to take them at that word.
However, I have a responsibility to judge others actions, as well as my own. I am not to judge to "pass judgement" and we are certainly not to gossip, but I am to judge to discern if said person(s) is living a life pleasing to God. This affects not only their life, but mine if I have any kind of relationship with them. I am not called to admonish, condemn or criticize. However, I am called to lovingly and respectively speak to anyone that has strayed. “If another believer[a] sins against you,[b] go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector." Matthew 18:15-17. This could be a slippery slope, if we look at this with pride and arrogance. Humbleness and reverance should be in abundance before you try this action. You should know (and be able to freely admit) your own weaknesses and sins.
I suppose it just all boils down to this. No one wants to be told that they're wrong and not living in a way that pleases the Lord. I have seen/heard/discovered that it's perfectly acceptable to judge anyone you want, as long as it's not 'me'. You are doing God's work and His will ..... unless it's at 'me'. Then ~ by crackey ~ you're judging and the Bible says that's wrong!!!
Have I ever had my actions and motives judged? Absolutely!!! Did hurt? OH YES!!! I didn't like it at the time. But .... it made me better. It shaped me and formed me. It's a painful process, especially since I was absolutely wrong at the time. Hitting rock bottom hurts. But, it's the price I paid for not listening to God the first 1,000 times He tried to talk to me. Lesson learned.
I pray for humble hearts. I pray that people who call themselves Christains get that chip off their shoulder and their heart off their sleeve.
It's not all about you. It's certainly not all about me. It's about the Lord. It's about serving Him and worshiping Him and loving Him and sharing Him.
And I HOPE and I PRAY that when I stray and when I fail, s[notice I said when, not if] someone will have the guts and backbone to look at me and say "Anita. You BONEHEAD. What are you doing??!! This. Is. Wrong."
I doubt that I've changed much with this post, and that's ok. Unfortunately, the ones that need to read it most are the ones that won't see it. But, I learned - straight from God's word - and that makes me a winner. I can never study too much, read too much, pray too much, or love too much.
I hope this blesses you, and I also hope that it tugs at your heart. You can be as mad at me as you want, as long as you know that you're being mad at God, too. They're His words, written long before me.
We all sin. I know that. Geez, I live it. Admiting it is the first step. Did you get that? That's only the FIRST step. I don't have time to count all your sins. I'm busy counting mine. But, I believe that one day we will all stand before God and give an account for our lives. I also believe that I will be held accountable if I saw a sister or brother in Christ stray down a wrong path and I did nothing.
You may not agree with one thing I've said. If so, I sincerely hope for your sake that you're right.
Anita
Psalm 119:105 "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path."
First of all, yes ~ the Bible says not to judge others. But, God is very specific in what He says judging is. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus said “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others.[a] The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged." Well - this is all well and good, isn't it? It sounds like a get-out-of-jail-free card to me. This verse, should that be all there is to it, would allow anyone to do anything and say anything and go anywhere at any time with anyone. Don't speak on it or you're judging. This would be the most perfect "me" based world. What these verses mean, just so there's no question, is that I'm not to judge another person's heart. I am not to decide if that person is a child of God. This isn't my job and I'm not qualified. So, just so we're clear, when you use this verse to justify and action, word or deed that are currently involved in, you don't have God's blessing.
If you dig a little deeper into Matthew, you see a different side to the judging debate. in Matthew 12:33-34, Jesus ALSO said “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad. You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say." Jesus clearly says that we will be known by our fruits. Most people consider this to be our "works" or all the marvelous things we've done. I don't personally agree. I think it's our spiritual fruits. You know what those are, right? Love ~ Joy ~ Peace ~ Patience ~ Kindness ~ Goodness ~ Faithfulness ~ Gentleness ~ Self Control. Go back and read those again. Repeat. Okay - one more time. Do you honestly think that you can do ANY of those on your own? We will know each other by those 9 items. I can't look for those 9 things without some form of judgment. I don't mean criticism and putting myself above others. I mean examining your fruits. If you are a hateful, spiteful, mean spirited, ugly, rude, foul mouthed, antagonistic person, yet you claim to be a Christian, HOW can you POSSIBLY expect no one to question your actions?????
God tells us to avoid certain people with certain problems. "Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people" Proverbs 22:24. {MAN. I wish I had seen this about a year ago. It would have made life easier} I'm not making this up, people. These aren't my words - they're the Lord's. God tells us not to befriend those with angry and hot headed traits. HOW, pray-tell me, do you determine if someone is angry and hot headed WITHOUT judging them?
Hebrews 5:14 "Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong." We are to constantly study, learn and grow in the word so that we can recognize right and wrong. If I'm to recognize right and wrong, then a little judging of other's actions will happen. It doesn't mean I'm comparing myself to others in an attempt to build me up, but if someone in my life is living unbecoming to the word and I surround myself with them, they will influence me in a negative way. You do the math - then satan will have TWO of God's saved doing satan's work in Jesus' name. That's a train wreck just waiting to happen. I have to know my stuff. I have to know that, if the Bible says it's right, then it's right. If the Bible says it's wrong, then it's wrong.
We as Christians are not to judge the hearts of others. That's not my call. I don't know if anyone else has a personal relationship with Jesus. That's between them and Jesus. If they say they do, I have to take them at that word.
However, I have a responsibility to judge others actions, as well as my own. I am not to judge to "pass judgement" and we are certainly not to gossip, but I am to judge to discern if said person(s) is living a life pleasing to God. This affects not only their life, but mine if I have any kind of relationship with them. I am not called to admonish, condemn or criticize. However, I am called to lovingly and respectively speak to anyone that has strayed. “If another believer[a] sins against you,[b] go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector." Matthew 18:15-17. This could be a slippery slope, if we look at this with pride and arrogance. Humbleness and reverance should be in abundance before you try this action. You should know (and be able to freely admit) your own weaknesses and sins.
I suppose it just all boils down to this. No one wants to be told that they're wrong and not living in a way that pleases the Lord. I have seen/heard/discovered that it's perfectly acceptable to judge anyone you want, as long as it's not 'me'. You are doing God's work and His will ..... unless it's at 'me'. Then ~ by crackey ~ you're judging and the Bible says that's wrong!!!
Have I ever had my actions and motives judged? Absolutely!!! Did hurt? OH YES!!! I didn't like it at the time. But .... it made me better. It shaped me and formed me. It's a painful process, especially since I was absolutely wrong at the time. Hitting rock bottom hurts. But, it's the price I paid for not listening to God the first 1,000 times He tried to talk to me. Lesson learned.
I pray for humble hearts. I pray that people who call themselves Christains get that chip off their shoulder and their heart off their sleeve.
It's not all about you. It's certainly not all about me. It's about the Lord. It's about serving Him and worshiping Him and loving Him and sharing Him.
And I HOPE and I PRAY that when I stray and when I fail, s[notice I said when, not if] someone will have the guts and backbone to look at me and say "Anita. You BONEHEAD. What are you doing??!! This. Is. Wrong."
I doubt that I've changed much with this post, and that's ok. Unfortunately, the ones that need to read it most are the ones that won't see it. But, I learned - straight from God's word - and that makes me a winner. I can never study too much, read too much, pray too much, or love too much.
I hope this blesses you, and I also hope that it tugs at your heart. You can be as mad at me as you want, as long as you know that you're being mad at God, too. They're His words, written long before me.
We all sin. I know that. Geez, I live it. Admiting it is the first step. Did you get that? That's only the FIRST step. I don't have time to count all your sins. I'm busy counting mine. But, I believe that one day we will all stand before God and give an account for our lives. I also believe that I will be held accountable if I saw a sister or brother in Christ stray down a wrong path and I did nothing.
You may not agree with one thing I've said. If so, I sincerely hope for your sake that you're right.
Anita
Psalm 119:105 "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path."
Monday morning schedule
I thought I would give you a glimpse into the real homeschool experience. Around here, we run a tight ship.
- Class starts promptly at 8 a.m. ~ or 8:15. ish.
- We eat breakfast before school starts. Usually, on the couch.
- We dress for school each day ~ in play clothes and no shoes.
- If the temperature is below 32 when mom gets out of bed, then we wear pajamas and fuzzy slippers to school. No questions asked.
- If it snows ~ well, we're doing school anyway. Mean, you say? Really? I'll remember that when public school is going through June and we're done in April. This is the first year since I was in school that I'm hoping for 6 feet of snow.
- We listen to inspirational music during school - the biblical kind.
- We have a class pet. He looks amazingly similiar to our household pet.
- We have class chores.
- We take scheduled bathroom breaks ~ whenever.
- We learn. Constantly.
- We pray before tests. Actually, we pray every day. Out loud. After Bible reading and our daily devotional.
- We do math that they need to know for later AND math they will actually need to know in life.
- We do spelling ~ not BINGO. It's before, not B4.
- We do language - also called English - also called grammar.
- We do memorization skills.
- We do penmanship ~ also called you-are-going-to-learn-how-to-write-in-cursive-and-you-will-use-it.
- We do science. This year we are studying Astronomy. It's called God made it. We are learning how He made it so perfectly.
- We do History. We are learning from creation on. History includes the Bible and things happened all over the world in chronological order. It should be learned that way.
- We do fun.
- We do messy.
- We do loud.
- We do reading ~~ all the time and any opportunity.
- We do manners.
- Mommy grades - tough. At some point they need to learn how to handle constructive criticism and fixing mistakes.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Who's really learning, here?
While the twins were in class yesterday, I decided to take a stroll around the zoo. To be honest, I was just looking for a quiet place to eat my lunch. I was walking through a part of the nature walk, and I was the only one on that particular piece of path. I came upon the back of the red wolf habitat. They were all at the back, so the wolves and I had a "moment". It suddenly occurred to me that I was looking at these animals courtesy of Noah. Think about that. Every single land dwelling animal, lizard, snake, bird and bug is here because Noah was conscientious enough to do his job.
Once I had taken in the fauna, I started to look at the flora. Now - I am taking liberties with the Bible here - but I started to think about all of the tender plants that are here in East Tennessee. Think about spring and garden-planting time. Many of the seeds we use are very fickle, and don't respond well to too much water. Although it isn't mentioned in the Bible, I would like to think that Noah's wife and d-i-l were busy, too. What if they were frantically collecting food to eat during the flood, but also seeds and plants that would be needed once the ark landed again? I imagine after all that water, many (if not most) of the trees, flowers and plants were not salvagable. Do we also owe Noah a thank you for the shade trees in the backyard and the pumpkins growing right now??
Then I started to think about what the ground would have looked like once the water receeded. The artist renditions portray Noah stepping off the ark and onto beautiful green grass. I don't think that's the case. I think it was a vast, barren wasteland with dead things everywhere. This was the cost of sin, and would have been a reminder to the Noah family for the rest of their days. Memories like that don't fade.
Now, perhaps you're thinking I'm giving Noah too much credit here. Maybe I am. After all, God was responsible for directing Noah and getting those animals to the ark. God could have saved the animals without human involvement, if He so chose. But, God found who He needed and trusted him to carry out the plans to the letter.
Let's take that and apply it to our own lives. Can God trust you to take instruction and carry it through without question or complaint? If the world was depending on you for its continuation, would we all be doomed? Even simpler than that - are you living in God's will? Well, of course, we all fail. Noah failed. God said he was righteous, not perfect! Noah might have had a temper, or a selfish spirit, or an unforgiving attitude. We don't know. God chose not to tell us the bad - only the good. God focused on the good. Whew - insert cat whistle there!! If that isn't a lesson, I'm done!
If my children learn nothing from this adventure, then I have failed them in their academic career. But, if they learn nothing of eternal value, then I have truly failed them as a mother and have neglected my God-given responsibility. I pray that God teaches me something about me every day, and that I apply that to the life I have been given to live. And I pray that for you, too.
To finish the story, I did find that quiet place for my sandwich consumption! I ate with the zebras. There was a small area with a bench behind their habitat and I got to watch them closely, much closer than those on the main path. I think that's a lesson, too. Sometimes we have to walk a different path than the majority in order to receive God's richest blessings.
I am finding this blog to be less and less about homeschool and more and more about what I'm learning while we homeschool! Although the twins did get to see a fire belly toad
and a lizard in class and visited the vultures and river otters in the zoo.
Until next time,
Anita
Once I had taken in the fauna, I started to look at the flora. Now - I am taking liberties with the Bible here - but I started to think about all of the tender plants that are here in East Tennessee. Think about spring and garden-planting time. Many of the seeds we use are very fickle, and don't respond well to too much water. Although it isn't mentioned in the Bible, I would like to think that Noah's wife and d-i-l were busy, too. What if they were frantically collecting food to eat during the flood, but also seeds and plants that would be needed once the ark landed again? I imagine after all that water, many (if not most) of the trees, flowers and plants were not salvagable. Do we also owe Noah a thank you for the shade trees in the backyard and the pumpkins growing right now??
Then I started to think about what the ground would have looked like once the water receeded. The artist renditions portray Noah stepping off the ark and onto beautiful green grass. I don't think that's the case. I think it was a vast, barren wasteland with dead things everywhere. This was the cost of sin, and would have been a reminder to the Noah family for the rest of their days. Memories like that don't fade.
Now, perhaps you're thinking I'm giving Noah too much credit here. Maybe I am. After all, God was responsible for directing Noah and getting those animals to the ark. God could have saved the animals without human involvement, if He so chose. But, God found who He needed and trusted him to carry out the plans to the letter.
Let's take that and apply it to our own lives. Can God trust you to take instruction and carry it through without question or complaint? If the world was depending on you for its continuation, would we all be doomed? Even simpler than that - are you living in God's will? Well, of course, we all fail. Noah failed. God said he was righteous, not perfect! Noah might have had a temper, or a selfish spirit, or an unforgiving attitude. We don't know. God chose not to tell us the bad - only the good. God focused on the good. Whew - insert cat whistle there!! If that isn't a lesson, I'm done!
If my children learn nothing from this adventure, then I have failed them in their academic career. But, if they learn nothing of eternal value, then I have truly failed them as a mother and have neglected my God-given responsibility. I pray that God teaches me something about me every day, and that I apply that to the life I have been given to live. And I pray that for you, too.
To finish the story, I did find that quiet place for my sandwich consumption! I ate with the zebras. There was a small area with a bench behind their habitat and I got to watch them closely, much closer than those on the main path. I think that's a lesson, too. Sometimes we have to walk a different path than the majority in order to receive God's richest blessings.
I am finding this blog to be less and less about homeschool and more and more about what I'm learning while we homeschool! Although the twins did get to see a fire belly toad
and a lizard in class and visited the vultures and river otters in the zoo. Until next time,
Anita
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Well.........DUH!
I had my first "duh" moment this morning... I'm sure my first of many.
I have been beating myself up periodically about how unqualified I am, the twins will probably be "behind", etc, etc, etc....Yesterday at the zoo I had another episode. It hit me this morning - hard. We are not having public school at home. We are having HOMEschool at home. Big difference.
Is public school bad? Absolutely not. However, many of the teachers (if you can get them to be honest) will tell you that state standards are too high, and children are required to learn skills before they are ready. I don't have such strict standards. Will my children learn everything that they would have learned in public school??? YES!! And more!! Will they necessarily learn it at the same time?? NO!! And that's ok!!!! At this moment, I'm filling in the gaps from the last 3 years of math. Their teachers did a wonderful job of teaching them, but there are some hiccups I've found that I have to cure now. There is no perfect educational system. Period. There are pros and cons to each side. Everyone has an opinion (and most of the time, they will voice that opinion loud and clear!). My children are happy and excited to learn. For this, I am blessed, humbled and thankful.
Thank you for sharing this chaotic life with me ;) I hope you enjoy the ride!
I have been beating myself up periodically about how unqualified I am, the twins will probably be "behind", etc, etc, etc....Yesterday at the zoo I had another episode. It hit me this morning - hard. We are not having public school at home. We are having HOMEschool at home. Big difference.
Is public school bad? Absolutely not. However, many of the teachers (if you can get them to be honest) will tell you that state standards are too high, and children are required to learn skills before they are ready. I don't have such strict standards. Will my children learn everything that they would have learned in public school??? YES!! And more!! Will they necessarily learn it at the same time?? NO!! And that's ok!!!! At this moment, I'm filling in the gaps from the last 3 years of math. Their teachers did a wonderful job of teaching them, but there are some hiccups I've found that I have to cure now. There is no perfect educational system. Period. There are pros and cons to each side. Everyone has an opinion (and most of the time, they will voice that opinion loud and clear!). My children are happy and excited to learn. For this, I am blessed, humbled and thankful.
Thank you for sharing this chaotic life with me ;) I hope you enjoy the ride!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my!
Today marked our first official homeschool educational outing. We enrolled in the Knoxville Zoo homeschool Tuesdays class. Lukas and Shelby LOVED it! I mean, really .... dry ice, chinchillas, the elephant exhibit and red pandas, all led by a zoo educator. What's not to love??!! I want to join the class!!!
I'm excited for them and all they will learn. These classes will run every Tuesday through November, then pick back up in January and go until spring. I'm looking forward to some quiet time during their class where I can commune with nature and the animals. Mommy has some reading to catch up on! We are there at the best possible time - Tuesdays during lunch. There aren't many people there and the animals are out and active. We got some wonderful photos of the komodo dragon and videos of the river otters and black bears. The bears were CLOSE to the glass... those dudes are HUGE!!! Shelby "made friends" with a river otter - he loved her purple umbrella and would follow it as she moved it on the glass.
We are going to thoroughly tour/investigate a different section of the zoo each week and learn something new. At least... that's the plan ;) I'm excited about this new venture, and I'm thrilled that they are excited, too! It's just another confirmation for me that God's hand is in this and we are doing what He wants.
I'm excited for them and all they will learn. These classes will run every Tuesday through November, then pick back up in January and go until spring. I'm looking forward to some quiet time during their class where I can commune with nature and the animals. Mommy has some reading to catch up on! We are there at the best possible time - Tuesdays during lunch. There aren't many people there and the animals are out and active. We got some wonderful photos of the komodo dragon and videos of the river otters and black bears. The bears were CLOSE to the glass... those dudes are HUGE!!! Shelby "made friends" with a river otter - he loved her purple umbrella and would follow it as she moved it on the glass.
We are going to thoroughly tour/investigate a different section of the zoo each week and learn something new. At least... that's the plan ;) I'm excited about this new venture, and I'm thrilled that they are excited, too! It's just another confirmation for me that God's hand is in this and we are doing what He wants.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Reflections from 3 a.m. ...
- I have developed a new scientific name: ickeous explosionous.
- The dog has to pee at 3 a.m., no matter what is going on in the dining room, hall and kitchen.
- All paper towels are not created equal. If you must use cheap ones for every day, go ahead. Have good ones on hand, hidden in the back of the closet. You can thank me later.
- The floor cleaner on Pinterest works wonders. Make some. Today.
- I have regretted taking all my carpet up at times. I will no longer have this regret. At 3 a.m., carpet is evil.
- I think that alarm clock companies should make a sound exactly like a small child expelling dinner. No one would ever be late to work again. Grown men would be standing in factories all across America in their underwear with eyes wide open ready to go to work each morning...
- My son can sleep through anything.
- There are things at mamaw's house my daughter shouldn't eat.
- My husband is a better thinker, planner and strategizer at 3 a.m.
- God gave me an acute lack of hearing and a strong intolerance to certain smells. It is both a blessing and a curse.
- The brain is powerful. It can recall aforementioned smells and make you think they are still around after they are gone.
- I should be more careful about what I leave stacked in the floor.
- Purchasing a box of disposable rubber gloves is never a bad idea.
- Communicating to your spouse your intent is always a good idea.
- Prayer is necessary, even in the details.
- A backrub and a pink poodle can make anything better.
I remember this happening in years past, and I would think "Dear Lord, please let her feel better for tomorrow" ... and of course, she usually did. Missing just one day of public school is hard. There are lots of things that they are told verbally, told once, and they either get it or "too bad".... That's just the way it is.
I have to say, I did well for our first homeschool hiccup. I wasn't nearly as wonky about her getting back to bed, back to sleep, and well. Now, she can do most of her work from her bed. I can modify and change things until she's able to come back to "school". And... if we are on the couch all day, I can make sure that it's not a wasted day.
This new path God chose won't be easy - I'm not that naive! But, He handed it to me on a silver platter, and He will give me the strength, guidance and wisdom to make the decisions and carry out the work involved.
With the cancellation of our first field trip due to the weather, it's time for mom to go find a plan B. The Wilkerson Academy is going on the road today!
Thursday, August 9, 2012
I try to find something to laugh about...
I subscribe to a post on FaceBook called "the busy homeschool mom".... I like her. She has real world advice. She's not a blue jean skirt wearing, hair in a bun, bakes her own bread kind of woman. She's a real homeschool mom!
This was her post today:
This was her post today:
I made myself a list of things I wish I had known when I started homeschooling all those years ago...
Education is discipleship. And because of that ...
Curriculum should not ever become the "main" thing.
Character training always comes before curriculum.
...
When we're frustrated and on the verge of burnout, it's time to take a step back and reevaluate what we're doing. His yoke is easy...
Marriage needs to consistently come ... before mothering.
I'm homeschooling, not trying to do "school at home". There really is a difference.
Sometimes, baking cookies is better than math. And it will often accomplish the same thing with better results. :)
Homeschooling through high school is not as scary as "they" say... and totally worth every minute.
Teenagers need their parents more than they let on.
It really will go by as fast as "they" say it will so now is a good time to think about what I want the homeschool years to accomplish. What kind of children do I want to raise?
Sow good things into the lives of the kids now ... reap good things later.
Our kids will not do what we say nearly as often as they will do what we do. Model good things.
Apologize.
Don't be afraid to say "this is not working" and start looking for something that will work.
It's okay to ask for help.
Being real is better than pretending to have it all together.
Never leave Sharpie markers unattended.
Laugh more.
Education is discipleship. And because of that ...
Curriculum should not ever become the "main" thing.
Character training always comes before curriculum.
...
When we're frustrated and on the verge of burnout, it's time to take a step back and reevaluate what we're doing. His yoke is easy...
Marriage needs to consistently come ... before mothering.
I'm homeschooling, not trying to do "school at home". There really is a difference.
Sometimes, baking cookies is better than math. And it will often accomplish the same thing with better results. :)
Homeschooling through high school is not as scary as "they" say... and totally worth every minute.
Teenagers need their parents more than they let on.
It really will go by as fast as "they" say it will so now is a good time to think about what I want the homeschool years to accomplish. What kind of children do I want to raise?
Sow good things into the lives of the kids now ... reap good things later.
Our kids will not do what we say nearly as often as they will do what we do. Model good things.
Apologize.
Don't be afraid to say "this is not working" and start looking for something that will work.
It's okay to ask for help.
Being real is better than pretending to have it all together.
Never leave Sharpie markers unattended.
Laugh more.
See, I tricked you, didn't I??!! You didn't think there would be anything funny in here, until..... you got to the Sharpie markers comment!!! I'd pay her $5 to tell me the story!!!
I talked to some folks today who were asking about HomeSchool ... they weren't even trying to tell me what a bad idea it was ... the guy said his only concern was the socialization aspect (WOW!! there's one I've NEVER heard before!!) and he had no idea how many groups and co-ops there are just here in this area. I'm happy that this idea isn't so foreign anymore, and I thank God for the parents who fought for the rights I have today. Just 40 years ago, I would have been in jail for teaching my children at home...... so sad....
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Old dogs CAN learn new tricks!!
That's right ... I'm busted. I'm an old dog. I'm old, ok? I am set in my ways. I cook a certain way. I write a certain way. I fold my towels a certain way. Chances are good that is not going to change anytime soon! However.... and this is a BIG however.... there are areas of my life that have changed alot. Let's take a trip back in time, shall we?
The date is October 4, 2001. I'll never forget that day. It was a Wednesday... Bob and I hadn't been married very long and (if you'll look at the date again) the world had just changed forever. We were attending a local church (it's probably best I omit that name!) and things were not good. There was a business meeting in which off duty police officers were attending, standing outside the sanctuary door in case things got out of hand. There was a very bad man pretending to be a pastor presiding and there was more anger and hatred and attitude flying around that building than I have ever had the displeasure of witnessing. I look back on that night with shame, both for me, my family and others. We should have left. We should have walked away. We were stupid. Half the church members did leave that night, never to return. Some never got over it. And only one entity had any victory that night. I have images of horns and a pitchfork.
Fast forward ---> The date is now the fall of 2009. Different church, Same me ... a little calmer, but not much. Passionate about my call and cause, which can be really, really good or really, really bad! I had learned my lesson (oh my that so very painful lesson) from before and wasn't so determined to dig my heels in at all cost. It wasn't just Bob and I anymore.... there were children to consider. Instead of digging in, I was praying to the ceiling. I didn't really feel like they were going any higher, although I now know they were. We moved on... at exactly the moment we were supposed to. God made me stay in that place I hated for months... I came to church in tears, I cried the whole time I was there, and I left in tears. I didn't want to go and He would NOT let me stay at home. I was learning ... again, it was SO painful, yet SO necessary.
During all this, I was doing alot of praying, and not a whole lot of studying. Oh, I was raised in church. I know "enough" I suppose... I always had good intentions, but they never lasted long. I would study my Sunday school lesson and prepare for mission friends on Sunday night, but I never really dug into the Word like I should.
Well, now it's today ... August 8, 2012. We're planted where God lead and in the manner that He decided... and I'm different for it. I'm not better. I'm not perfect (oh that is for to laugh!!). But... I'm different. This whole Bible study thing? Yeah... I'm kind of getting into it now :) It's done daily, it's done first, and it's the area in our school life that we put the most time into. And, by the grace of God, my children love it. They live what they learn, and learn what they live, you see!
I'm not judging the people of my past. I've come too far for that nonsense now. I'm not asking for acceptance or approval. This is our house, and as for me and my house, we serve the Lord. Will that make people angry? I have no doubt. Do I give a flip? Would it be callous to say "no"? I did not have 2 children 9 years ago. I gave birth to 2 missionaries ... and it's up to me and my husband to train them. And it is on my head if I don't. You see, I'm not just 'mom' anymore. I'm the teacher, too. It's not my priviledge to be able to teach Christ in every way possible and in every subject - it is my responsibility.
So yes ... I'm an old dog with a new trick. I'm searching the scriptures for myself, as I have been instructed to do. If I need to know it, then I'll find it in there. If it's not in the Bible, then I could care less about it. You don't have to agree with me, believe me, or even like me. That's the good part of this being my blog. I'm under the assumption that you want to know about me if you are reading my stuff. I hope that this is an encouragement to someone. My posts are very rarely planned events. They come from God's nudge to my heart, and I would be foolish not to obey.
The date is October 4, 2001. I'll never forget that day. It was a Wednesday... Bob and I hadn't been married very long and (if you'll look at the date again) the world had just changed forever. We were attending a local church (it's probably best I omit that name!) and things were not good. There was a business meeting in which off duty police officers were attending, standing outside the sanctuary door in case things got out of hand. There was a very bad man pretending to be a pastor presiding and there was more anger and hatred and attitude flying around that building than I have ever had the displeasure of witnessing. I look back on that night with shame, both for me, my family and others. We should have left. We should have walked away. We were stupid. Half the church members did leave that night, never to return. Some never got over it. And only one entity had any victory that night. I have images of horns and a pitchfork.
Fast forward ---> The date is now the fall of 2009. Different church, Same me ... a little calmer, but not much. Passionate about my call and cause, which can be really, really good or really, really bad! I had learned my lesson (oh my that so very painful lesson) from before and wasn't so determined to dig my heels in at all cost. It wasn't just Bob and I anymore.... there were children to consider. Instead of digging in, I was praying to the ceiling. I didn't really feel like they were going any higher, although I now know they were. We moved on... at exactly the moment we were supposed to. God made me stay in that place I hated for months... I came to church in tears, I cried the whole time I was there, and I left in tears. I didn't want to go and He would NOT let me stay at home. I was learning ... again, it was SO painful, yet SO necessary.
During all this, I was doing alot of praying, and not a whole lot of studying. Oh, I was raised in church. I know "enough" I suppose... I always had good intentions, but they never lasted long. I would study my Sunday school lesson and prepare for mission friends on Sunday night, but I never really dug into the Word like I should.
Well, now it's today ... August 8, 2012. We're planted where God lead and in the manner that He decided... and I'm different for it. I'm not better. I'm not perfect (oh that is for to laugh!!). But... I'm different. This whole Bible study thing? Yeah... I'm kind of getting into it now :) It's done daily, it's done first, and it's the area in our school life that we put the most time into. And, by the grace of God, my children love it. They live what they learn, and learn what they live, you see!
I'm not judging the people of my past. I've come too far for that nonsense now. I'm not asking for acceptance or approval. This is our house, and as for me and my house, we serve the Lord. Will that make people angry? I have no doubt. Do I give a flip? Would it be callous to say "no"? I did not have 2 children 9 years ago. I gave birth to 2 missionaries ... and it's up to me and my husband to train them. And it is on my head if I don't. You see, I'm not just 'mom' anymore. I'm the teacher, too. It's not my priviledge to be able to teach Christ in every way possible and in every subject - it is my responsibility.
So yes ... I'm an old dog with a new trick. I'm searching the scriptures for myself, as I have been instructed to do. If I need to know it, then I'll find it in there. If it's not in the Bible, then I could care less about it. You don't have to agree with me, believe me, or even like me. That's the good part of this being my blog. I'm under the assumption that you want to know about me if you are reading my stuff. I hope that this is an encouragement to someone. My posts are very rarely planned events. They come from God's nudge to my heart, and I would be foolish not to obey.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Words of Wisdom
We want our children to learn, but what do we really teach them? Beyond the basics, what do they learn? I've had some time to really reflect on this lately, and I've decided to pass along what I intend to pass along to them.
God is the only one you can always trust - love people, even when you don't want to - you are known by the company you keep - this earth is temporary, but Heaven is eternal .... your goal should be to get there - satan can't stand it when you speak the name of Jesus and has to flee - everyone doesn't like you, even if you want them to - papaw always said "if they're talking about you, it's because they find your life more interesting than theirs. Besides, while they talk about you, they're just giving someone else a rest" - read the Bible ... every day - forgive, even if they're not sorry - stupid people exist ... and they multipy at an alarming rate ... guard yourself - negative people will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience - no one lives forever ... enjoy each day - pray without ceasing - eat dinner as a family - count it all as joy - find a verse of the Bible and a song .... memorize them and repeat them daily - bad things may happen, but that doesn't mean you're not loved - satan means things for bad ... God will use them for good... ALWAYS - being alone doesn't have to mean being lonely - never find yourself not in the possession of a good book - there is a difference between judging someone's soul and telling them they're wrong - mistakes happen ... learn - someone will always look prettier, skinnier, smarter, or more popular ... they might be .. but it doesn't mean they're happier - jealousy is ugly and contagious - a clear conscience is the best sleeping pill ever made - you are responsible for your own thoughts, speech and actions ... you don't get to blame others if you act like a dummy - pray for your spouse, before you ever meet them - emotional eating has hazardous consequences - expand your horizons, go to a museum or theaterical production, never stop learning - don't argue about the Bible ... it has survived for over 2,000 years without your help - be careful little eyes what you see, ears what you hear, mouth what you taste, fingers what you touch, nose what you stick it into - there is such a thing as too much sarcasm - don't speed... leave on time - be punctual - don't lie ... you never have to remember anything extra with the truth - take pictures of everything important - hold the door open for your elders - use manners ... yes and no ma'm and sir, please, thank you - apologize if you think you need to ... it gets so much easier the more you do it - someone who truly loves you will fall in love with your mind first - follow your instincts and gut ... that's God - if you are uncomfortable somewhere... leave - don't wear your heart on your sleeve...put a helmet on and get over it - life's too short to be miserable - modesty is a necessity - dress for the job you want, not the one you have - the words you speak (and now, type) are permanent - I am firmly convinced the internet, facebook and twitter are of the devil ... use with caution - be ready when the Lord returns ... the twinkling of an eye is FAST - journal - never stop going to church ... no, you can't live to God's potential for you without it, no matter what others say - make sure your friends have the same morals and values as you - make sure you know what your morals and values are - if you are born again, God expects you to act like you are born again - get active in your church and community - tithe - make childhood memories - rest your body and mind - limit your exposure to TV - praying is talking to God - physical age has no direct correlation to spiritual and mental maturity ... in other words, people can be real babies - pick your battles - you never get too old to watch cartoons - only eat when you're hungry - drink plenty of water - silence is golden, duct tape is silver - as small as you are in this vast universe, you are big stuff to God - your mom prayed for you for 3 years before you were born - Sunday afternoons were made to rest ... do it ... naps are more awesome the older you get - sometimes, you just outgrow people - sometimes, God removes someone from your life to protect you ... the worst thing you could do is go chasing after them - choose your words carefully - be patient ... but for Heaven's sakes, don't pray for it!!! - some people are down on their luck and some people pretend they are ... trust God to show you the difference - you are made in God's image - laugh - laugh some more!! - never give up, unless God says to - pray for your enemies - never forget Jesus rose again and God is still on the throne!!
God is the only one you can always trust - love people, even when you don't want to - you are known by the company you keep - this earth is temporary, but Heaven is eternal .... your goal should be to get there - satan can't stand it when you speak the name of Jesus and has to flee - everyone doesn't like you, even if you want them to - papaw always said "if they're talking about you, it's because they find your life more interesting than theirs. Besides, while they talk about you, they're just giving someone else a rest" - read the Bible ... every day - forgive, even if they're not sorry - stupid people exist ... and they multipy at an alarming rate ... guard yourself - negative people will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience - no one lives forever ... enjoy each day - pray without ceasing - eat dinner as a family - count it all as joy - find a verse of the Bible and a song .... memorize them and repeat them daily - bad things may happen, but that doesn't mean you're not loved - satan means things for bad ... God will use them for good... ALWAYS - being alone doesn't have to mean being lonely - never find yourself not in the possession of a good book - there is a difference between judging someone's soul and telling them they're wrong - mistakes happen ... learn - someone will always look prettier, skinnier, smarter, or more popular ... they might be .. but it doesn't mean they're happier - jealousy is ugly and contagious - a clear conscience is the best sleeping pill ever made - you are responsible for your own thoughts, speech and actions ... you don't get to blame others if you act like a dummy - pray for your spouse, before you ever meet them - emotional eating has hazardous consequences - expand your horizons, go to a museum or theaterical production, never stop learning - don't argue about the Bible ... it has survived for over 2,000 years without your help - be careful little eyes what you see, ears what you hear, mouth what you taste, fingers what you touch, nose what you stick it into - there is such a thing as too much sarcasm - don't speed... leave on time - be punctual - don't lie ... you never have to remember anything extra with the truth - take pictures of everything important - hold the door open for your elders - use manners ... yes and no ma'm and sir, please, thank you - apologize if you think you need to ... it gets so much easier the more you do it - someone who truly loves you will fall in love with your mind first - follow your instincts and gut ... that's God - if you are uncomfortable somewhere... leave - don't wear your heart on your sleeve...put a helmet on and get over it - life's too short to be miserable - modesty is a necessity - dress for the job you want, not the one you have - the words you speak (and now, type) are permanent - I am firmly convinced the internet, facebook and twitter are of the devil ... use with caution - be ready when the Lord returns ... the twinkling of an eye is FAST - journal - never stop going to church ... no, you can't live to God's potential for you without it, no matter what others say - make sure your friends have the same morals and values as you - make sure you know what your morals and values are - if you are born again, God expects you to act like you are born again - get active in your church and community - tithe - make childhood memories - rest your body and mind - limit your exposure to TV - praying is talking to God - physical age has no direct correlation to spiritual and mental maturity ... in other words, people can be real babies - pick your battles - you never get too old to watch cartoons - only eat when you're hungry - drink plenty of water - silence is golden, duct tape is silver - as small as you are in this vast universe, you are big stuff to God - your mom prayed for you for 3 years before you were born - Sunday afternoons were made to rest ... do it ... naps are more awesome the older you get - sometimes, you just outgrow people - sometimes, God removes someone from your life to protect you ... the worst thing you could do is go chasing after them - choose your words carefully - be patient ... but for Heaven's sakes, don't pray for it!!! - some people are down on their luck and some people pretend they are ... trust God to show you the difference - you are made in God's image - laugh - laugh some more!! - never give up, unless God says to - pray for your enemies - never forget Jesus rose again and God is still on the throne!!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Lead by Example
We spent this morning at the movies, after our Bible study and spelling test. Homeschool is still a significant amount of work, but what good is it to homeschool if you can't play hookie occasionally, right? Besides, the upside is we can do the rest of our work this afternoon (which reminds me... Math time!!!).
We had a wonderful time, minus the extremely crude "humor" in the movie and the fact that mommy got choked TWICE on popcorn. However, I became extremely saddened as I left the theater. On almost every aisle that someone sat on, there was a mess. Please understand, the majority of the patrons this morning were moms and small children. You expect to see a smidgen of popcorn in the floor. No... it was more than that. Almost everyone had left their trash in the seats, floor and cupholders. Mothers who had picked up those colored booster seats left them laying in the seat and floor. There was popcorn everywhere.
As I left, I commented on the mess to the two employees standing at the door, perched and waiting to begin the frenzied cleaning process that I knew was in store. They weren't surprised, and in fact told me that it can get really, really bad sometimes. I said "no, you don't understand. These were adults!!". They understood - I didn't.
I turned that inward ... what am I teaching my children? Sure - math and science are necessary for a diploma and college degree. There are many exciting things that I will teach them in "the hub". But, what am I teaching them outside that room? We took our trash to the trash can as we left this morning, and I didn't have to tell them that was necessary. They're Wilkerson's - that's the drill. This was not their first rodeo. When you leave your seat, you toss your junk. Simple, right?? I know they've learned that lesson well, but where have I failed them?
I hope that I'm giving them a foundation of treating others the way they want to be treated, but I think I need to go even deeper. I need to teach them to have grace, love and mercy to those who DON'T treat Lukas and Shelby the way they should. One day, one or both my children might work at that theater. Will they do their job with a smile, regardless of how the theater looks? Will they greet everyone with kindness, even if that person left the mess? Will they "talk" about those messy Bessy's in the break room, or will they rise above such childish behavior?? Yes, they will -- IF -- I teach them to do today -- by my words AND my actions. Their life will mimic mine. Is my life worth mimicking?
My prayer today is that my classroom be more than curriculum and books. I want to do mistakes, and "I'm sorry", and hugs, and forgiveness, and love.
We had a wonderful time, minus the extremely crude "humor" in the movie and the fact that mommy got choked TWICE on popcorn. However, I became extremely saddened as I left the theater. On almost every aisle that someone sat on, there was a mess. Please understand, the majority of the patrons this morning were moms and small children. You expect to see a smidgen of popcorn in the floor. No... it was more than that. Almost everyone had left their trash in the seats, floor and cupholders. Mothers who had picked up those colored booster seats left them laying in the seat and floor. There was popcorn everywhere.
As I left, I commented on the mess to the two employees standing at the door, perched and waiting to begin the frenzied cleaning process that I knew was in store. They weren't surprised, and in fact told me that it can get really, really bad sometimes. I said "no, you don't understand. These were adults!!". They understood - I didn't.
I turned that inward ... what am I teaching my children? Sure - math and science are necessary for a diploma and college degree. There are many exciting things that I will teach them in "the hub". But, what am I teaching them outside that room? We took our trash to the trash can as we left this morning, and I didn't have to tell them that was necessary. They're Wilkerson's - that's the drill. This was not their first rodeo. When you leave your seat, you toss your junk. Simple, right?? I know they've learned that lesson well, but where have I failed them?
I hope that I'm giving them a foundation of treating others the way they want to be treated, but I think I need to go even deeper. I need to teach them to have grace, love and mercy to those who DON'T treat Lukas and Shelby the way they should. One day, one or both my children might work at that theater. Will they do their job with a smile, regardless of how the theater looks? Will they greet everyone with kindness, even if that person left the mess? Will they "talk" about those messy Bessy's in the break room, or will they rise above such childish behavior?? Yes, they will -- IF -- I teach them to do today -- by my words AND my actions. Their life will mimic mine. Is my life worth mimicking?
My prayer today is that my classroom be more than curriculum and books. I want to do mistakes, and "I'm sorry", and hugs, and forgiveness, and love.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Pinterest project - flower pot
I loved this idea when I saw it on Pinterest, and decided to give it a shot on a whim one night. Lowe's had their terra cotta clearanced - I would take that as a sign - wouldn't you??!
I did this without instructions - I just remembered what I had read and improvised the rest. I bought the pot and the saucer because I intended to put it in the school room.
To start, you need paint in the colors of your choice - I used leftover VBS paint from a craft project - the cheap bottles from WalMart. Make sure you can elevate your pot and saucer off the ground. My flower pot is balanced on a spray paint can and the saucer on a regular pint paint can. The paint WILL run down and off the edges and if you have this flat on the paper, it will stick.
This is a photo of the project once I added the paint:
You really do follow the directions - add a bit of each color and repeat - repeatedly!! I taped off the hole in the bottom of the pot - The next morning the paint on the tape had not dried. I took the tape off (bit messy!) and the pot finished drying in no time. Here is the finished project in the school room, complete with a clearanced ivy. Total project: about $10 including paint.
I did this without instructions - I just remembered what I had read and improvised the rest. I bought the pot and the saucer because I intended to put it in the school room.
To start, you need paint in the colors of your choice - I used leftover VBS paint from a craft project - the cheap bottles from WalMart. Make sure you can elevate your pot and saucer off the ground. My flower pot is balanced on a spray paint can and the saucer on a regular pint paint can. The paint WILL run down and off the edges and if you have this flat on the paper, it will stick.
This is a photo of the project once I added the paint:
You really do follow the directions - add a bit of each color and repeat - repeatedly!! I taped off the hole in the bottom of the pot - The next morning the paint on the tape had not dried. I took the tape off (bit messy!) and the pot finished drying in no time. Here is the finished project in the school room, complete with a clearanced ivy. Total project: about $10 including paint.
Week 2, and all is well.....
We started week two of the Wilkerson Academy today. I suppose I could (and should) have blogged about everything that happened last week, but to be honest, I didn't really know what to say!
I took some time at the end of the week to sit back and examine the week, and I must admit I was extremely happy with what I saw. We started each day with the Bible. They read (and enjoyed reading) every morning, then journaled about what they read. They studied their AWANA material (which they'll be needing soon) and also a verse for preacher's pals on Sunday nights. We had a devotion and prayer. All of this before we ever cracked a book! The difference it made was amazing. God is in the center of our school. He's the principal, because He's the principle.
Math is tailored to meet the needs of my students. We started History where history started - in Genesis. We are studying the universe, planets, stars, Sun and our world in general. That required a field trip outside to check our shadows during different parts of the day(s) to "tell time". Lukas said "you mean we're going OUTSIDE??!!" He was in shock! We have time to read - really read - a book. Language, Spelling, and Penmanship are flowing freely!
I intend to introduce Spanish soon. They also have typing/keyboarding skills that they work on.
They are happy. They are healthy. They are content. All is well.....
Mommy's not doing so bad herself! I have found time to focus on the things that are important, like my own Bible study and time alone with Jesus. I am finding little nuggets in the word that I never saw before. I am calmer, and I hope kinder. I'm forgiving more, and getting angry less. I will never be where I was destined to be, but each day brings me closer. I long for my relationship with the Father to become simpler each day. Let all the confusion of the world cease.
Our first 2 field trips are coming in the next few weeks. Our calendar is quickly filling with activities and the like. I do believe that the veterans are right - finding time to teach among everything else we do will be the challenge!
I still rely on the assurances from God that this was the right step. On my own, this would not have happened. His grace is sufficient for today.
I took some time at the end of the week to sit back and examine the week, and I must admit I was extremely happy with what I saw. We started each day with the Bible. They read (and enjoyed reading) every morning, then journaled about what they read. They studied their AWANA material (which they'll be needing soon) and also a verse for preacher's pals on Sunday nights. We had a devotion and prayer. All of this before we ever cracked a book! The difference it made was amazing. God is in the center of our school. He's the principal, because He's the principle.
Math is tailored to meet the needs of my students. We started History where history started - in Genesis. We are studying the universe, planets, stars, Sun and our world in general. That required a field trip outside to check our shadows during different parts of the day(s) to "tell time". Lukas said "you mean we're going OUTSIDE??!!" He was in shock! We have time to read - really read - a book. Language, Spelling, and Penmanship are flowing freely!
I intend to introduce Spanish soon. They also have typing/keyboarding skills that they work on.
They are happy. They are healthy. They are content. All is well.....
Mommy's not doing so bad herself! I have found time to focus on the things that are important, like my own Bible study and time alone with Jesus. I am finding little nuggets in the word that I never saw before. I am calmer, and I hope kinder. I'm forgiving more, and getting angry less. I will never be where I was destined to be, but each day brings me closer. I long for my relationship with the Father to become simpler each day. Let all the confusion of the world cease.
Our first 2 field trips are coming in the next few weeks. Our calendar is quickly filling with activities and the like. I do believe that the veterans are right - finding time to teach among everything else we do will be the challenge!
I still rely on the assurances from God that this was the right step. On my own, this would not have happened. His grace is sufficient for today.
Monday, July 23, 2012
An overview of command central
 |
| This picture has the most going on - the white board (obvious use), their splatter paintings from their birthday party, weekly Bible verses to memorize, daily boxes, calender, "I'm done" jar, all the supplies we will need this year, etc... etc... etc... This room got crowded FAST ~~ but I am loving every minute of it!! They are super-excited about this new venture which makes me MUCH happier... Take a good look at these pictures, as this is most likely the last time this room will ever look like this again! Let the pandemonium begin! |
 |
| Mommy's desk - where all the schedules, plans, grading of papers and scrapbooking (during quiet moments) will take place. I love their reading nooks - one in each corner. |
 |
| Our bookcase - mommy will ALWAYS buy books - without question or complaint (well.... content approved of course)! I'm totally excited about the books of the Bible poster on the wall - we are SO learning those this year - and how to find them. |
 |
| As I like to call it ... "the hub" ... notice my $5 thrift store table?? Lukas and Shelby painted the chairs. |
 |
| The entrance to our new schoolroom - I needed a way to store all those DVD's that we simply couldn't part with while keeping it a little neater than before. The twins picked out the fabric and (of course!) they couldn't agree, so we got both!! |
Monday, July 9, 2012
In my mind, I imagined myself sitting quietly in the still of the night, calmly sipping a cup of tea or coffee while articulating my day as my family slept. I have realized that my dreams will never become reality! Instead I sit among unfolded laundry, two children with wet heads from nighttime showers, a husband that just got home from work, a dog and his squeaky toy, the TV blaring and one child facetiming a friend. I can only shake my head in amazement that I can articulate my name, much less a complete thought!
And so it begins.... a journey into the unknown. This wonderful, crazy world of homeschooling. The room has been painted, the curriculum ordered, the table and desk placed in the room and the date set. God has placed me here. God will lead us on. The looks, bad advice and criticizm will come, I'm sure. If God gave me this priviledge, doesn't it seem logical that He will give me the grace and love to explain that priviledge to others? What an awesome opportunity to share His testimony. I'm honored!
I love to write, and haven't had a chance to indulge that passion in some time. This blog will allow me to put "pen to paper" and hold on to those funny and heartwarming moments that I'm sure are to come. I don't really expect a mass following, and that's perfectly fine. For those of you who do find my life entertaining, please visit often! I'm sure you won't leave disappointed.
And so, for now, I end with "thank you for visiting". May this be the first of many posts to come.
And so it begins.... a journey into the unknown. This wonderful, crazy world of homeschooling. The room has been painted, the curriculum ordered, the table and desk placed in the room and the date set. God has placed me here. God will lead us on. The looks, bad advice and criticizm will come, I'm sure. If God gave me this priviledge, doesn't it seem logical that He will give me the grace and love to explain that priviledge to others? What an awesome opportunity to share His testimony. I'm honored!
I love to write, and haven't had a chance to indulge that passion in some time. This blog will allow me to put "pen to paper" and hold on to those funny and heartwarming moments that I'm sure are to come. I don't really expect a mass following, and that's perfectly fine. For those of you who do find my life entertaining, please visit often! I'm sure you won't leave disappointed.
And so, for now, I end with "thank you for visiting". May this be the first of many posts to come.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)