Miss Perfect

We were so excited yesterday to find out that Pageant Perfect (a pageant coach) had submitted Shelby's picture to a photographer and she was chosen as Novembers Miss Perfect.

More benefits to doing a pageant just keep rolling in. This news gave Shelby such a confidence boost.

Her is the link to see her picture on their website. You will need to scroll to the bottom.

http://www.pageant-perfect.com/

Pride and Prejudice

Shelby had the great opportunity to audition and receive the part of Miss Bingly in the Homeschool Theatre's production of Pride and Prejudice.

This was cast with all homeschoolers age 11-18 in the Utah County area. The kids practiced for 3 months and did an amazing job. They also held a garage sale to raise money. Moms were left to come up with costumes. Those like myself who don't sew relied on Ebay to get their hands on the perfect one. Shelby looked amazing on stage.

I would like to thank the Liechty's for this amazing opportunity for our kids. It was marvelously produced and a wonderful show.

The production was supposed to be performed at the Grove Theatre in Pleasant Grove. However, the night of the first show we found out the Fire Marshall had closed the theatre. There was a mad dash to find another place. Another auditorium was found and the show went on.

There are so many wonderful opportunities for our children. I am so thankful for the wonderful families that share their interests and talents with us.

Arrow of Light Recipient

Ricky earned his Cub Scout Arrow of Light this summer. They had the ceremony for him at the end of October. He had a lot of fun working on the requirements.

We are so proud of him. We love the Scouting program. It teaches young boys to respect themselves and others. It helps Ricky realize that his contributions to the world matter. One person can make a difference.

He is a great example to those around him. We can't wait to start working on Boy Scout badges!

Fall is the best time of year.

"Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn."
- Elizabeth Lawrence


A week before Halloween it snowed here in Utah! Yes, the kids were so excited. Ricky can't wait to build a snow fort in the backyard. But that will be a few months away. We had the best Halloween this year. Parties everywhere and great costumes the kids were excited about. Our football teams aren't doing so well this year. But we still love them and still wear the colors proudly.

They forcasted snow the second week in October. That is early. Even here. We couldn't believe it. Yep, we woke up and we had white grass outside. It was official. Time to get out the coats, gloves, hats, boots, scarves, and sweaters in preparation for the fall/winter weather. My oldest needed everything. She went from being a tween last year to a full blown adult this year. Nothing fit. Luckily she takes care of her stuff and it was in like new condition and the next daughter inherited 2 jackets and a new ski jacket and boots. My youngest is a boy. I'm not mean enough to make him wear his sisters stuff from last year. Luckily he only needed new boots and gloves. I got them each a few sweaters/sweat shirts and we are good to go.

Halloween was a blast!!! It started Thurs. were I drove my oldest and 4 friends to a big Halloween party. They all had on great costumes. They all had a great time. Lots of stories to be told. Then Friday there was a skating party and another party that night for the other two kids. Everyones favorite game was "Darling if you love me smile".


It is so wonderful to have great kids around to associate with. Good clean fun was had by all.

Football this year has produced winning season for our favorite teams. The Broncos are just sad. We watch hoping to see Tim Tebow play. Rick will pause the game and yell for everyone to come watch because Tim Tebow is in for one play. LOL! BYU isn't that great either. But we are true fans. There through thick and thin.

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life. ~P.D. James

Thoughts will take you to amazing places

I know it has been a while since I last posted. I have been doing a lot of thinking about where we are going in our journey in life, and didn't really have anything "great" to write. Or so I thought.

First let's start with the Pageant. Wow! I learned not to judge a book by its cover. I have judged pageant girls my whole life. And not in a good light, I might add. I am here to tell everyone it is a lot more than just looking pretty on stage. Now that does play a role. The girl needs to be poised, graceful, and look very comfortable in front of a lot of people. And that isn't an easy task. But they also have some very great qualities I must say are not so visible and you don't get to see.

I thought my daughter's resume was exceptional. She volunteers, has a 4.0 GPA, is Secretary of her Sophomore class, is a cheerleader, and swims. But so are the other girls. My daughter also plays the piano, but the other girls are concert pianist, simi pro ballerinas, and play violin in symphonies. These girls are so talented and dedicated. Great lesson in "you can always improve". I really had not looked into what a Pageant is all about. I just saw a few things and made my judgment. A great lesson in 'not judging others'.

Next, we'll go on to my son's football career. He's 10 and plays 5th grade football. My son loves football. He knows more about the game than most adults. His dream is to play football in High School and hopefully in college. I played sports. I know you get great coaches and not so great coaches. I also know about the politics that are involved. The coaches son usually gets to play the "key" positions. That's why the coach is out there. That is why my husband and I have both coached. I get it and accept it. But I am having a hard time with our current situation. I try to keep a positive attitude. My son gets screamed at and humiliated by his coach, and I tell him he is just trying to make you a better player. It is building character. Right? Recently, I have started doubting that philosophy. It started a week ago in a game when the coach wanted my son to cover a certain "hole" and wasn't communicating it well enough and got frustrated. He grabbed my son and pushed him. Ricky fell down. I was beyond control. Right there in front of the whole team I let the coach have it. I know see things with new eyes. I don't see him as trying to help my son. He doesn't have my son's interest in heart at all. He is about himself and where all this going to take him. Perspective in situations lets you see the same situation totally differently. I know see that my son is a 10 year old boy. He needs to be gaining confidence. Don't be torn down all the time. That isn't building character. It is leaving him not wanting to play football.

Can he reach his goals playing for another team, in a different division? Yes, he can. Another football coach (High School) even told my husband that. Right now my son just needs to be learning good fundamentals and gaining confidence. Confidence is the difference between good and great.

Next, is my middle daughter. She quit swimming last spring to play softball. She swam on a recreational team for fun and keep in shape, but left her club team that swam every day. When she went back in the fall they didn't pick her back up. They told me that she shouldn't have left. At first my view was "how crazy". Taylor had learned this summer that swimming is her love and she wanted to only do swimming from now on. This was a crushing blow. I knew of another team that is a 20-30 minute drive (depending on traffic). I hesitated taking her there, but then decided it wasn't that bad. So we are now on that team and we drive everyday. Taylor is swimming better and faster. She has great confidence in what she is doing. So the "bad" experience, brought an even better experience our way. Perspective!

I have a lot of parents tell me I am crazy for driving so much. No I'm not. It's just your perspective. Just because you wouldn't do it, doesn't mean I shouldn't.

I had a great conversation with my husband's cousin this week. She is having trouble with her son's teacher at school and wondered if I could help her find information about homeschooling. I thought I would post our conversation and maybe it is one you have had or wanted to have. Maybe it has some answers that you have been looking for. Maybe it will just let you know me a litttle better. :P This will be a long post...sorry.


Me -

First, we started homeschooling our oldest (Shelby) when she was in first grade. We had a terrible experience in kindergarten and knew we needed to find something else. The school literally told me that they had my daughter for more hours during the day and knew what was best for her. That didn't sit well with me or Rick.

I think parents don't realize that they have other alternatives to their kids education and feel trapped in government run school systems.

School for Elementary aged kids doesn't take 8 hours a day. Why they are there so long is ridiculous. 1st through 3rd grade generally will only take you around (give or take) 2 hours a day. Some days not even that.

Reading and math are really the only "structured" curriculum you will need to focus on until 4th grade - ish. Art, music, science, and social studies don't need to be "formal" (and I'll get into that later on) I bet there are great homeschool activities he would love to participate in, in your area. Google homeschooling in .....(your town).

There are many learning styles. Spend some time finding out how your son learns. Is he visual, is he hands on, or both. That will help you find a curriculum that works well with him. Curriculum is not "one size fits all" and that is why government schools are failing. (In my opinion of course)

There are a lot of teaching philosophies out there. You can google them and learn more. I'll name a few of them that are popular...
1. Charlotte Mason - hands on learning
2. Thomas Jefferson
3. unschooling
You can also google Homeschooling and you will get a good response of things to look at to help you decide.

We are eclectic. I don't buy into "one size or philosophy" fits all or covers all. We do a little bit of everything. I did a lot of "sampling" when the kids were young and it has served us well. Our oldest (Shelby) is 14 and a Sophomore in highschool and gets straight A's and doing very well. She does online High School (Open High School of Utah) You can google and look at it.

I am also a mom who doesn't like to spend a lot of time on "fluff". If it takes me 2 hours to organize it, it won't get done. So the stuff I use is very easy to use and the planning has already been done. wink.

I loved Miquon Math for 1st - 3rd grade. It is some workbook work mixed with hands on rods that do a great job helping them visualize the math. My kids learned to do math in their heads this way and loved it.

English at this age is mostly reading and reading comprehension and handwriting skills. I am very eclectic in this area. I like "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons". It does more than just teach them to memorize. I also liked Alpha Omega's language Arts program at this age because it was easy to follow.
Handwriting Without Tears - is a wonderful handwriting program.

Science early in Elementary school is very basic. We liked to go to the library and get books to read about bug and animals. Our library usually had programs that were fun to go to. They might even have a homeschool group that meets there. Science doesn't get to involved until 4th grade. Then I LOVE Apologia Science.

Social Studies is what is taught grade 1-3. Usually involves learning about what is around them and what is acceptable behavior. What is the post office and how does it work. How did it get started (Pony express - great books to read or movies to watch), What is a bakery, What do police men do, What are firemen, What are doctors and nurses and what do they do, etc. Lots of "field trips" to museums. This is an area belonging to a homeschool group will be beneficial. They usually have seasoned moms who coordinate wonderful outings for the kids.

Art is easy. I have some great websites to go to. When ever you need a moment to "pee, eat, shower, or even scream" simple art projects keep them "busy" while you take care of mommy.

I have so many ideas from 9 years and three kids. I'd love to help you get started. It seems daunting, but if you know some ins and outs it is a breeze, and will be very rewarding. I love having my kids home. We play, laugh, cry, learn, fight, go on adventures, and my kids are each others best friends.

Her -

Thank you so much! I'm encouraged to do this, but have to admit a little scared. I feel guilty since I was really looking forward to back to school to get a break! Now, I still want the break- but I have to consider what's best for Alek. School starts tomorrow and I'm having a much harder time than he is and I'm trying not to let it show. I'm not prepared to home school yet, but I think I can do it before the year ends.

I love your last statement including the fights, crying- I know that will be there with Alek. It took 15 times to tell him to get in the bath and only when I was upset did he FINALLY do it. I also feel it would be rewarding and it will take discipline on my part to make it successful. (deep breath) I think that's the scariest part. I've been so lazy with a schedule this summer and allowed way too much tv/video games after having a baby in May, it will take serious turn about to make this happen. I have talked to him about mommy being his teacher and he's for it. That's a good sign. Although, I also feel he knows how to work mom. I need to fix the discipline with him and I no matter where he learns first.

That's amazing you figured this all out in kindergarten for Shelby. What were they trying to do that they felt was "best" for her? Did you pull her out during the school year? The school wants me to get Alek tested for ADHD so he can have special help. When he was in daycare- they mentioned ADHD also. I've never tested him. I don't plan to use Ritlin anytime soon, but it scares me. I think Alek just learns different than most. I do need a professional assessment before I bring him home. Not for meds, but to understand his learning style more. Also, I think he just needs an outlet that sitting for 8 hours will not provide.

I love that you have some favorites that will help me get started in putting together a program for him. I've spent hours googling and it starts to feel like I'm going in circles. I'm encouraged that some state homeschooling might work best for a child with ADHD. I thought for sure it would be discouraged. The one on one interaction and also tips for headphones to help him concentrate.

Have you ever joined a homeschool that wasn't LDS? Most groups are christian, but not mormon. I don't think you need to be a member of that church, but I don't know. I haven't found a group to join for activities and that's the hardest part. I do want him around kids. One has a Monday school for homeschoolers and I like that. It's only for 3 hours. I think I know why classes are 8 hours in public- from what I remember there was a lot of get in line, wait for everyone to finish...etc. Not sure how that is really helpful after school- that can be learned at the grocery store! hahaha

When do you start this school year? You are amazing! I know it can't always easy. Although, I can see the that the pay off has many rewards. How often did you think of quitting at first? I'm sure you get very little, if any mom time away from kids. I know when I start most of my prep will be prayer! I am so thankful to have a resource like you to get started. Thank you, again.

Tomorrow, I'm going to let him start public school because i didn't prepare sooner. Ease my way into this by working with him after school and before work to build our niche. Then, pull him out. It sounds like I only have to submit 10 days before I start with Oregon. Although, he's not 7 until the end of November so I might not have to at all. You can see, I still have more research to do. I'm definately going to get the books you've suggested!

How long did it take you to begin from the time you made the decision?

Me -

There were a lot of problems in government school that bothered me and didn't set well with me. Boys lifting her skirt and the teacher telling me to not send her in dresses. (why not teach the boy to keep his hands off my daughter?), my daughter is like me and has a strong personality. Even in kindergarten she didn't take teasing or bullying well at all and took care of it. Usually telling the other kid off. I didn't see anything wrong with that. The teachers told me she had social problems. (I felt like the other kids had the social problems.) Shelby went to a Montessori preschool where they let the kids learn at their own pace. Shelby went into kindergarten reading on a second grade level. When ever she tried to read the teacher told her to stop because the other kids weren't reading yet. So I was working with her at home. 9-11 happened that year. The teacher didn't talk with the parents at all and took the kindergartners to an assembly where they talked about what happened and showed them the memorial service. I went to the school and asked if they were going to show my 5 year old tv programs on cable that they let me know ahead of time so I could come and pick her up. That is when the principal told me he had her longer and knew what was best for her. It took me the rest of the school year to get life in order and have a different plan than send her to school. We looked at private schools, but weren't in the position to do so. We looked at new charter schools, but found them no better than government run schools. I heard from my sister about homeschooling during the second semester. We went to a convention together and I was convinced. Rick said it was up to me and "we can always put her back in if it doesn't work out". I was determined to make it work. I wasn't going to send her back.

We started 1st grade at home. I didn't see the need for her to be "beat up" everyday.

When we lived in Florida we belonged to a Presbyterian homeschool group. I found there that most groups are run by a church and they don't like Mormons. One even asked us to sign a "Statement of Faith" which made us say we didn't believe the Book of Mormon was true. So we walked away. It wasn't until 2nd grade that we found the Presbyterian group and they were wonderful.

We love our Friday "classes" at a charter school here. Art, Piano, Sculpting, theatre, etc. Gives the kids an outlet. Finding a non denomination group is wonderful. Everyone seems to be more worried about their children than religious issues.

I have my own thoughts about ADHD. I certainly am against putting the kids on meds. I feel it is easier for them to label the kids than deal with them. Don't let them put him in a special group. He will get stuck through life as the "special needs" kid. Which is ridiculous. I have 3 kids all different learners. Shelby is advanced. She learns in every style and does it quickly. Then I have Taylor (12) who has Dyslexia and has always struggled with reading and spelling. She probably would have been placed in a special group and not been able to take advanced classes like she is now. I just didn't stress over it and we worked on it, and worked on it. There are people out there who like to judge or label others. Don't let that happen. Taylor can write and tell amazing stories. Her spelling isn't great. But we have spell checker, and I don't stress with her. I just let her learn in her way.

I am not big into nutrition, but I did some research early on about ADHD. I had someone tell us she thought Shelby was and she wanted us to put her on meds. I was a bit offended. But went and did some research on it. Meds couldn't be the only solution. Most kids are "hyper" so I wasn't convinced. Diet plays a big role in all our lives. I don't know anything about what your son enjoys. I would suggest you googling ADHD diets and see if changing some things up helps him out. See if you notice a change. And remember the old adage "Boys will be boys". Teacher have 30+ kids to deal with and it is easy for them to drug the kids than deal with them. Told you I have my own thoughts on the issue. wink.

We start school at the beginning of August. We ease into it. Start with things they like then add a subject each week. We end usually at the end of April or middle of May. Depends on if we took a vacation during the year or not. I have them read all summer.

Prayer helps! I find that my kids listen to me. We have our "family" moments where telling them 3 times isn't enough and I have to yell. Then I've got their attention and they do the work. But generally they know it is important are self motivated. There are great blogs you can follow, too. They talk about homeschooling little ones. Chore charts, school work reward charts, etc. Fun stuff to help teach him to be self motivated.

Something will kick start your path. For me it was the principal telling me he knew what was best for my daughter. When you get the kick you'll move past the fear and just do it.

I'm impressed that you are so involved and worried for your son. They only get one chance at childhood.

Her -

We have a LOT of the same views. I'm so glad we connected. As far as diets for ADHD- I've checked out a few and they are time consuming to eliminate and see what happens. Plus, he hasn't been diagnosed at this point. I try to limit sugar as much as I can for a kid. I still want him to be able to be a kid and how much fun is it to never have a cookie? I try though. I lean more toward natural remedies like calm child. It has herbs and things like that in it. I know my first step is to get him to a doc to know exactly what I'm dealing with. Then apply the most common diets/natural remedies that work. Something as simple as removing gluten might be the trick depending on what it is. You are absolutely right about him being "labeled" so young. I don't like how that can make him feel about himself.

I loved hearing how you got started. I never imagined myself considering homeshool- that was before I was a parent! I think it will take me this school year to get all the bumps worked out and make it work with all life's responsibilities. Balance is the key. I'm planning on working from home soon. I'm checking out all the books you've suggested to start Alek on and I like them. Mostly, I love they are not super expensive like some that are advertised. Is there any tax advantage to homeschooling? From what I've read, it doesn't look like it, but thought I'd ask.

I'm excited when I think of the possibilities when I can balance all of it. I would love some help hunting a group in my area. I'm in wood village- just outside of Portland. My zip is 97060 if that helps. I have found 2 and both are church based. I'm sure there are more but having a hard time sorting through the google search- mostly ads come up for homeschool courses that are costly. Feels like going in circles.
What about this conference you attended that convinced you? Any in my area? It feels like a secret community that isn't made available to the public. Although, I read it's growing 7-12% each year. You were ahead of your time!
I don't want Alek to be labeled. Right now the teacher is having him sit on a bumpy pillow so he can sit still. I'm frustrated and exhausted trying to pull him out. If I start now, I can lay the ground work to be prepared for 2nd grade. I'm learning his learning style this year while he's still in public school. Yes, something will kick start my path. If I get to wits end- I know I can start tomorrow if I absolutely had to. I feel it would be better for Alek if I get all my ducks in a row first. Wish I would have started a year ago!

Me -

I am without words as I read about the pillow! What in the world is that teacher doing? Humiliating your son? Wow!

Now that I got that off my chest....

Here are a few sites I found...don't know if you already saw them or not. But we can start there.

http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/regional/OregonSupport.htm

this site has a list of groups in every county. I saw a lot of secular groups.

http://www.midnightbeach.com/hs/Oregon.html

http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com/laws/blOR.htm
This page has the laws that govern Oregon with Homeschooling.

Oregon has a virtual academy. http://zsem.k12.com/tpages/index2c_dyn.html?st=OR&se=Google&campaign=OR_National_Job_K120928&adgroup=OR_Nat_Virtual&kw=oregon+virtual+academy&gclid=CIKm8YOWm6QCFSE1gwodSxOrEQ

We participated in a K12 virtual academy and enjoyed it. They provide all the curriculum...FREE. For parents just starting out and don't know what they want to do this program is great. They have "teachers" to ask questions and help guide you. Their language Arts is a bit much. But I can help you with secrets to getting it done.

Start with these sites and let me know if you find anything. Let me know if you need more. I didn't want to fill to much space and you get lost. hehehehehe.

I can see how it feels like a secret society. It is just new, and you don't know where to look. Like with most things...It helps to know people. :)

Oh..Conventions are usually held in the Spring and Summer. I'll keep an eye out for you.

Her -

Wow! I love this virtual academy. I tried one called home connections that provided a computer, but it had a 2 year waiting list. I found this out only after I had to wait for the brochure, then I was offered the private program that was 2-3 thousand a year. I was expecting to get the same results but a 6 minute phone call to the right place answered all my questions and makes me feel I could do this in 2 weeks. They also help provide connections with other homeschoolers for socialization. Which was one of my biggest fears to take him out of public school. I started with this link and I'm excited to explore the others.
The pillow!? Thanks for validating my feelings. I left with a heavy heart when I saw that and I'm really trying to stay centered. I had Natalie the end of May and wonder sometimes if I'm still a little hormonal. What bothered me more was when Alek came home from school one day I asked about friends. He was trying to talk to a kid and the teacher told the kid to ignore Alek. I'm sure it was during a time she was trying to teach- he might have been disruptive..... I don't know, but I could see how it made my son feel. He is very active, possibly ADHD, maybe dyslexic.... but he's a very sensitive kid. He's smart, when all the stars are in line and the planets are just right, he lets me get a glimpse of what he's capable of! I feel like I have to weigh the options, lonely or spending the day with negative input.
I'm looking forward to checking out the other websites after work- These are all ones I haven't seen before.
Have you ever thought of writing a book about your journey homeschooling? I think it's hard to find info because at the moment it still gets negative remarks from most that haven't tried it. Just a thought- I've learned alot just by emailing you and I'm sure it could help many that are even wondering if they should.
Thank you, Again!

Remembering the Summer

We are well into our school routine now. The lazy fun daze of Summer are a memory. I came across a few photos I hadn't downloaded from my phone and spent some time smiling remembering the journey.

My younger cousin Stevie, drove out to Utah from Ohio and spent a night with us. We drove up the Canyon and went to Moab with him. So much beauty all around us that we take for granted each day. I don't think I'd seen Steven in over 5 years or so. It was great catching up with him. The kids enjoyed the teasing fest!



Wonderful, sweet Taylor's birthday is during the summer. Her birthday celebration is always part of some other great story. She turned 12. She is so fantastic. Her personality is amazing. Her love for everything is so contagious. She is still a little girl inside. Everything is "new" and "wonderful" to her. She truly Enjoys the Journey.

Each day I am reminded of just how wonderful life is. I look at my wonderful children and I am amazed at how blessed we all are.

Today 9-11-2010...I am so thankful for this wonderful life.

Cheaper by the "half dozen".

Yesterday I watched "Cheaper by the Dozen II" with my kids (for the hundredth time, I love that movie). There are so many great lines in the movie that epitomize real life and make us think about what we are doing as parents. But Yesterday one line really got my attention like never before.

The Bakers and the Murtaughs have raced to the hospital where the oldest has just had a baby. The family is gathered around the bed and she tells them the name of the baby boy. "We named him Tom. Because dad has shown us that there is no perfect parent".

No perfect parent! What?! Isn't that our quest in life? That got me thinking about the characters more. Murtaugh is portrayed as the "bad" guy. But I never really thought so. I was rooting him on.

In the end both parents have to learn to let their kids leave and choose what they want. Both took different roads to get their children where they are. Neither was wrong. Steve Martin has a line in the movie where he says "Don't tell me how to raise my children". I think what made Murtaugh the "bad" guy was his judgment on the Baker family.

We as parents have a great blessing and that is the freedom to raise our kids the way we choose, using the methods we like and agree with. The opportunities we create for our children give them wonderful learning experiences. Learning experiences we want them to have. That is a freedom I think more people need to fight for.

In the end they both are the good parents and their kids love them and embrace them. On a religious note...Our Heavenly Father gave us Free Agency for many reasons. I believe on of those reasons is we all have different talents and missions to fulfill here on Earth. If we all did everything the same and only had one choice, it would be very hard to fulfill our missions and reach our potentials.

I don't have quiet the dozen. Not even half a dozen. We are a family of 5. But I like to think we are a bit like the Murtaughs and the Bakers. All learning to give our kids everything we can in this life. Our goal is to give them what they need to return Home to our Heavenly Father. Along the way we hope they find out what their talents are, what their mission is, and have the tools to succeed.

And....we're off!

It's that time again. The beginning of a new school year. We started this week along with the government schools. I have heard from a few friends who homeschool as well that they are overwhelmed. Start slow. You don't have to keep a schedule. Do a little this week and then add something next week. Let the kids pick the subjects they like and start there. You don't have to fit it all in at the start.

The key is keeping the kids interesting in learning.

My youngest got to pick three subjects this week that he wants to work on. He is a 5th grader. He choose reading, math, and vocabulary. Next week we'll ad another subject. In September our coop classes begin and he will have one day a week at a local charter school taking sculpting, piano, and a fitness class. We will also add a club called Knights of Freedom where they read a biography of a famous person and have discussions, and they each take turns in charge of activities and they get to learn new games and be boys.

My middle child is starting Middle school and she got to pick 4 subjects to start this week with. She choose reading, math, vocabulary and grammar. She found out that Middle School isn't that much harder. (Hard doesn't mean impossible. It means just a little more concentration and effort). She will add writing next week. In September she will start a Shakespeare class. She will learn the language, write reports, play games, attend plays, and next semester put on a Shakespearean play. She will also go to the local charter school once a week and take sculpting, art, and violin.

My oldest is once again attending Open High School of Utah and is a Sophomore. It is an online High School. She is her class Secretary, and will be on the yearbook staff as well. This year the student government have a class with a few assignments and they will get credit for their service. I'm excited about that. We like to get as much credit for our efforts as possible. With hopes of getting a scholarship, leadership is a very important part of the applications. She is taking Algebra II, English 10 Honors, World Civ., Biology, Graphic Design, and Health. Next Semester Graphic Design will be replaced with Photography and Health will be replaced with Yearbook.

Here is a great article to read as to put life in the right perspective. We only have our kids at home for a short period in our lives.

Enjoy the Journey!!!

http://ldsmag.com/lds-church-updates/article/6111?ac=1

Decisions, decisions, decisions!

This year we decided to spend a little more time focusing on our oldest daughter, and help her realize how wonderful she really is. Moving to Utah seems to have been hardest on her. She misses old friends that were so kind and supportive of her. She misses family members who were her cheerleaders. She loved gymnastics, but soon became to tall. (Go figure..dad over six feet tall and mom is 5'9"). She said she'd like to cheer. So we went for it and now she is cheering for a competitive team.



She missed her lighter hair and the sun that kept it that way. So she saved up her money and got highlights in her hair.

Things started looking brighter through Shelby's eyes. She started feeling "normal" again. Moving a pre-teen across the country to a new culture and hoping they cope and figure it all out on their own is crazy. I'm an adult and haven't found a way to cope yet. Mommy! I'm so thankful for the ability to find her "thing" that helped her cope.

Now for the big event. She wanted to be in a Pageant. Well, we just happened to know the Director of the Miss Utah Outstanding Teen Pageant and she told us how to get involved. It has been so much fun preparing. You know you have a great kid. And then you start filling out paperwork and putting down all of their accomplishments, and they see how amazing all their work is...Priceless! In the past few months she has said more than a few times.."I rock"! We just had her photos taken and now she is saying "I'm beautiful"! We knew this already of course. But the world around her was telling her different. She needed to see herself again.





Post a comment and support Shelby. Let her know how great a person you think she is!

Another great debate

Recently there was a great debate on a group I follow about whether or not you are a true homeschooler if you participate in State funded programs. This really got me thinking about what my strong views are and why I have them.

First I want to state that I believe any program the State is willing to allow Homeschoolers to participate in is a win win. For so long we have been excluded from activities in the school district for various reasons. I really don't buy into the belief or feeling that government money is evil. What I do think is that this is a greater move towards Choice in Education, and that is a wonderful thing. Parents are responsible for the up bringing of their children. They should have the choice in how they educate them as well.

Every year I end up choosing something different. One year we didn't participate in anything. Not even a coop. Another year we used K12 through the local school district. Another year we did k12 and a local coop. This year the kids really wanted to take music and art so we are signing up for a few classes at a local charter school.

I still consider myself a homeschooling mom. All of our core classes are taught at home. 4 days out of 5 we are at home. I am the one choosing the kids curriculum and what they are exposed to. Yes I am going to use the state's money to pay for curriculum. After all I do pay taxes. I look at it in the view that I am getting MY money back. Not TAKING it from the state.

I am really excited to see more choices in educating our children. This is a great opportunity for those interested. I hope and pray for more choices for parents.

Time flies when you're havin' fun!

Wow! Summer time is coming to an end fast. We have had some great adventures. Besides the hikes, the trips to the pool, the road trips to Moab and Bryce, the swimming meets, the softball and baseball games, I really enjoyed the great conversation and lessons learned. REALLY!

I saw how much my kids had grown up since last summer. Shelby is taller than I am now. Taylor has grown so much I call her Shelby because in my head Shelby is still that size. Ricky went from my little man, to a big boy. He is almost to heavy to sit in my lap in the mornings for our morning hugs.

"Jane! Stop this crazy thing...called life". (Love that quote)

Raising these beauties I have learned so much about myself. One of my great revelations in life came from teaching my kids. Is what you THINK you believe and hold dear REALLY what you hold dear? I could talk the talk before and be very convincing. But not till I was teaching my kids and reinforcing our values to them and helping them cope in the real world did I realize how important it is for us to be strong and vigilant. I began to realize how important my values where to me. How strongly I really felt about outside forces teaching wrong values to MY family.

Suddenly I understood the drive that the Prophets in the scriptures had in standing up for what is right. Even if it meant not being popular, being portrayed as the bad guy, or even cast out. It is so hard to be true to your beliefs and who you are when everyone (and I do mean everyone) is against you. Leaders, "friends", neighbors, schools, you name it. Standing up and saying "this is wrong and not acceptable" is a hard thing to do. It is a lonely thing to do.

You are doing a great job! Keep it up! I look up to a lot of you and the example you are. Call someone today and tell them you think they are doing a great job and you care.

Our German experience.

This Summer we hosted a 15 year old German student. On our cruise in March the German family asked us if we would be willing to host their son. I went into this with really high hopes. I thought he would be so excited to do the things we had planned for him. I had explained before hand that we aren't that exciting. The dad assured us that he didn't expect us to "entertain" his son. He would be here to get better at English.

I should have gotten an idea of what was to come when in an email before his arrival he told us he would like to visit Bryce Canyon, The Grand Canyon, and other National Parks that are more than a day trip away.

He got here the week before 4th of July. Rick took him and his dad, along with two of our kids, to Arches National Park. They seemed to really enjoy that. That night we took them to a local steak house for dinner. The next day was Sunday. Sundays at our house are very quiet. We read, watch NASCAR, nap, etc. The dad seemed a little put out, even though I had explained our routine to him beforehand.

That next week was terrible. Niklas didn't understand English as well as his parents thought. We thought we were communicating with him, but found out later we weren't. I would get frustrated when I asked him questions and he nodded that he understood, only to have him seem to ignore me. He also made rude comments about our food. He wouldn't eat at the family picnic. He said hamburgers make you fat. I took that as him suggesting that our family was fat.

4th of July weekend came and we had a lot of activities planned. Saturday we went to the Freedom Festival in Provo. It was very exciting. The kids had earned some money helping me get ready for Niklas' visit and found some great souvenirs. Ricky got a steel sword. Niklas was very concerned. He asked Rick if he was getting it, and Rick explained no, that Ricky was. Niklas told us that in Germany you aren't allowed to purchase blades. Then we went on through out the Festival. He didn't seem interested. We went to Colonial Days and participated in some pioneer activities and he refused to participate. It was very uncomfortable. We felt like we needed to move on. When it was time to have lunch we all found our favorite vendor and got what we wanted. He didn't like any of the choices. Nothing we seemed to do was up to what he expected or wanted. It didn't get better.

We had tickets for the Stadium of Fire and went early as usual to participate in the Pre concert activities. Shelby won the limbo contest and won 4 tickets to Seven Peaks water park. Ricky won a lunch box. And Rick won tickets to next years Stadium of Fire. Niklas just stood on the side with his arms folded and refused again to participate. We got into the stadium about 45 minutes before it started. We found our seats and Niklas seemed a little bugged. He pointed to the seats below us and asked "why are we sitting down there. Those are much better seats". I told him that those seats cost more money and these are the ones we purchased. He didn't want to get anything from the concessions with the kids either. During the show he asked a number of times "when is this over". I think his lack of English was starting to make things really difficult.

At home he doesn't like to do anything with the girls. When I am not around he teases them. They don't like it at all. If I don't have an activity planned he goes to his room and closes the door and plays video games or goes online to "check email".

We have gone to the pool a number of times, and he enjoys that. We also took him to Timp Cave. I wasn't sure if he enjoyed that or not. But we did. He took some pictures, but he seemed irritated that we weren't walking up the mountain as fast as him and we kept asking him to wait for us. He told us his 80 year old grandma was in great shape and hiked all the time.

This week was a little better. He finally (out of starvation) had a cheeseburger. He said "Hamburgers here are better than in Germany". That was the first time he had anything nice to say about things here. He seems to always want to tell us that things in Germany are better.

He has taught Ricky some German. Ricky likes to ask you your name in German now.

We have 2 more weeks left. We are going to Park City today to take him shopping. The Mall here isn't good enough. I took him there this week and he didn't want to go into any of the shops because he wants "Abercrombie and Fitch" and other name brand stores.

We are planning a trip to Bryce Canyon this weekend.

Calgon!!!!!!!

As the World Turns

No, I am not going to post about a soap opera. But my life right now would make some great writing material.

Our family has had a rough summer. We have been left feeling very alone. I won't go into details. If you want give me a call I'd love to go on and on about everything. It might help knowing someone cared.

What I did want to write about was what we are learning from it all. When you are going through hard times it is not so easy to see any good. When I was younger I quickly would ask God why he was doing this to me. But I know now he isn't doing anything to me. He is there helping me get through. Other people in our lives have their free agency to choose. They get to choose how they act, how they treat others, how they deal with hard times in their lives, etc. Sometimes their choices have negative effects on our lives. Sometimes they don't mean their choices to effect anyone else. Other times they are hurt, lonely themselves, looking for attention, etc and are lashing out at whomever is there.

“If you will call your troubles experiences, and remember that every experience develops some latent force within you, you will grow vigorous and happy, however adverse your circumstances may seem to be".

I have a quote plaque in my room. It reads "Enjoy the journey". Sometimes the journey is rocky with steep mountains to climb. I pray Heavenly Father continues to push me up the mountain, and shows me paths around the rocks and thorns.

A long talk with my daughter last night probably helped me more than it helped her. As I was giving her advice on concentrating on the positive things in her life and not letting the negative things weigh her down, a light bulb went on. "Good advice Teresa". "Now follow it".

Onward and upward. Those who are worth having in our lives will seek us out and uplift us, not tear us down.

Our family relies a lot on the story of Job in the scriptures. We tell ourselves, we can "bare all things". "This to shall pass".

Thine adversity shall be but a small moment, D&C 121: 7-8. All these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good, D&C 122: 5-8. They taste the bitter, that they may know to prize the good, Moses 6: 55.

xxxxooooo

The birds are back

Our Robin came back again this year to lay her eggs. This year there were 5 eggs. 4 hatched. We watched every day looking at the birds grow. The one day I missed looking to see if they were ready to fly away....they all left the nest.

Last year we watched two of them leave the nest and fly across the street.

We hope to see our Robin again next year.

Opportunities make us

25 years + ago I was so excited. I was 14 and was going to my first Youth Conference with our church. I had an amazing experience. Great classes that uplifted me, testimony meeting where I felt the Holy Ghost so strongly. I was glad I made the decision to be baptised. I was scared to go to the dance. I really didn't know anyone. But there was a Bishop there who took this opportunity to teach the young men of the stake how to make the girls feel special. It wasn't a date, or a marriage proposal. It was a simple dance. He had taught his leaders to encourage the youth to be kind to each other. I had a great time that night and met a lot of good friends I would later rely on when decisions in life got tougher as a teen.

Girls camp was also one of the high lights of my youth experience. Being a convert to the church I went to a lot of activities not expecting much. These kids had grown up together and knew each other well. But they were always very warm to everyone. The leaders encouraged kindness at church always. They expected us to be friends. And we were. The leaders weren't our friends. They were just that. LEADERS. They were there to show us the way.

I remember one year fellowshipping a girl who wasn't coming out to church. I met her for the first time one morning when our Laurel class went and woke her up and took her to breakfast. She was a great girl. We kept calling her and inviting her to activities. She finally came out and joined us a few times. We even sat together a few times at school for lunch. She graduated that year and I never saw her again. But that year I learned how to truly fellowship. The leaders encouraged us to really become her friend and care about her. She felt our concern and love for her and it was easier for her to come out and join us at church.

Today in a world where it is funny to call names and tease, I would hope that church would be a place away from all that. A place everyone was accepted and felt the spirit of the Lord. That is what being a Christian means. Acting as Christ would at all times and in all places.

The scriptures read "Thou shalt lay aside the things of this world, and seek for the things of a better".

The writer of Proverbs said, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). I have witnessed in my short life that this includes good and bad behaviors and attitudes.

There is a saying that big gates move on small hinges. Sisters, your example in seemingly small things will make a big difference in the lives of our young people. The way you dress and groom yourselves, the way you talk, the way you pray, the way you testify, the way you live every day will make the difference. This includes which TV shows you watch, which music you prefer, and how you use the Internet. If you love to go to the temple, the young people who value your example will also love to go, and they will learn from you. I would also like to add that what you talk about at activities will get the youths attention and they will seek after those things. Talking about movies you have seen, books you have read, gossip about other people and what is going on in the neighborhood, etc. will be copied by the youth. These are the things they will hold onto.

I have been to great meetings that have left an impression on me 'til this day. I have met people who were such great example to me and have helped my testimony grow. I pray for such people in my children's lives. I pray that when I send them to church I can be confident that what goes on there is uplifting and helping build their testimony. That is what church meetings are for.

Ezra Taft Benson once said in a talk "Do not settle for mediocrity in this great incentive program for the young women of the Church."

The purpose of the Young Women organization is to help each young woman, ages 12 to 18, "come unto Christ" (Moroni 10:32) (taken from the Young Women website)

A new Era

Wow! Time has flown by the past 14 years. First steps, first words, first friend, first fight, first day of public school, first day of homeschooling, first dance class, first cheer team, first gymnastics meet, first swim lesson, first swim meet, first time on the computer, first typing lesson, first blog, first time on Facebook, first time learning to clean her room, first babysitting job, and now FIRST PART-TIME JOB.

Shelby got her first part-time job this week. She went in and filled out her first application, had her first interview, and worked her first day and loved it. I wish I had pictures of her face at each step like I did when she was younger and did all those FIRSTS. She is to old to pull out the camera at every step now. I love to document the milestones. The come and go so quickly. I want to be careful to enjoy everyone.

Good luck Shelby. This lifelong love of working hard and doing well will serve you well in life. I'm so proud of her.

End of school woos

I felt a little blue this last month. Was the school year really over? Now what?! Did I do enough for the kids this year? What should I do with my restless 10 year old son?

Now that Shelby is in High School I have become preoccupied with looking into college requirements. There are all kinds of scholarships out there. You can find a number of scholarships your child's talents fit into. But you have to look. Shelby's school made sure all the students were given the opportunity to do service this year. She earned the Presidential Service Award. That will help with Leadership scholarships. She also ran for class Secretary and won. That will help her as well for Leadership scholarships. If your child has any aspiration to play college sports be aware that the NCAA no longer accepts BYU Independent study classes. If you took core classes before Aug. 1 2010 you are alright.

Fat Cats has a Bowl for Free summer deal for the kids so I signed them up. Our local pool offers a discount on swimming passes if you buy 25 or more. We will have 5 of us going so I figured we will definitely go 5 times, so we'll be getting a pool pass as well. Shelby asked to fit in a trip to the library every week. I'll reward Ricky with a trip to the playground afterwards. A group of homeschoolers will have a "park day" every Wednesday that we will probably make it to.

I thought I didn't want a "schedule" this summer. However, I have found it keeps everyone motivated and keeps the "I'm bored" attitude at bay. So I've put together a morning schedule for the kids and myself so we have everything done so we can play in the afternoon.

Summer here we come!

1, 2, 3 strikes your out at the old ball game

We love a great ball game! Our 11 yr. old daughter and our 10 year old son play softball and baseball and love it. Between April and June we spend most nights at the ball park. Last night was back to back games.

First was Ricky's game at 5:00pm. Sorry no pics of that game. Rick was coaching and I was keeping score. Ricky is becoming a great pitcher! He gets better with each game. He has worked hard at home to get more accurate and it is paying off. He has been working on hitting as well and last night he hit a great ball in left center field! I love to see him work hard. His team won 10-7.

Next was Taylor's game at 8:00pm. She has been working hard at home as well. She walked her first at bat and stole second. Then on a wild throw she tried to steal third. She hesitated a bit and then ran hard to third and slide right under the fielders mit! SAFE! I think the whole town heard me scream! Her next at bat she went down swinging. At her third at bat she SMACKED a line drive at first base. I screamed then, as well! Her team won 8-2.

Both games were so much fun to watch. I am really proud of their hard work.

And the festivities begin!

Spring finally made it to Utah in the middle of May. Our family was itching to get outside and have some fun! So for Family Home Evening Rick decided to get some wood and we had a wienie roast in our backyard.

I have to say it was so nice to sit and enjoy the fire. The kids had a lot of fun chopping the wood and keeping it going. Oh that reminds me, I'll have to mark off "starting a fire for dinner" in Ricky's Scout book. LOL.

We also roasted marshmallows and made our version of smores.

We just received the "Discover the Scriptures" software and did a lesson from there. It was probably our most favorite FHE ever. Rick has really set the bar for the summer.

I'm good at worrying!

Wow! What a journey this year has been. This time last year I was so stressed about starting High School with my oldest daughter. So many choices. Had I prepared her well enough? What about my other two? Would we stick with what we were doing or change it up a bit?

Our first year of High School (yes OUR first year. Any mom knows she experiences everything her children do)was a huge success. DH is brillant. ( I already knew that). She will end this year with a 3.5 GPA. It was so nice to see her do so well and enjoy it. (Well except that darn Geometry class. There is always one class you just hope to pass!).

I knew she could. It was myself I doubted. Had we done enough to prepare? Had I covered all I should have? Those oh so familiar questions we homeschool moms ask ourselves. There are so many doubters out there questioning us all the time that got me to doubt. I needed to trust my instincts, trust the Lord, and know that it all is okay in the end.

This year I decided to not teach at a coop but have classes here at my house. It was wonderful. I worried again. Would anyone sign up? Would I do a good job? Would my kids enjoy it?

Our Astronomy class was so wonderful we plan to do another science class in the fall and study Oceanography. We had wonderful new friends join us. We had fun doing reports and experiments. We ended up looking forward to it ever week. We took the most wonderful field trips this year. The Antelope Island trip showed me just how smart my kids really are. They asked the most amazing questions, and showed genuine interest in what was being taught.

I am doing alright with them. They will succeed after all.

What about that "social" question? Well, I would have to say my children are very grounded and know exactly who they are. When others around them are making questionable choices they stand up for what is right, or simply walk away. They are the leaders of the gang in the neighborhood. And they are friends with many different people from many different walks of life. And they are each others best friends. Interpret that, or spin that however you like. I think they are doing great!

They will succeed after all!

We're all politicians and Lawyers

There are so many political conversations going on. Most people say they don't like the politicians. Same thing with Lawyers. There are so many jokes about blood sucking lawyers out there. And we all smirk at them, or nod our heads in agreement.

However, in my human observation we all are politicians and lawyers in our own little communities. We all smile when appropriate, all the while complaining something needs to be done. Yet we do nothing about what is wrong. It would look bad to be the one to have a descending opinion. We all shake all the right hands, and stay clear of the things that might tarnish our image with those around us. Very few of us go outside our comfort zone and stand up for much. We don't want to shake up the status quo. We all feel our position is the only position and we must be right. We all feel an injustice has come to us and it was someone else's negligence, therefore they must be put on trial amongst their peers. And the position we take is usually the most popular or the one that gets us the most. No one really knows where we stand.

Yes, certain things have transpired in the past 3 years that give me this perspective. I hear many complaints about "the state of this country", or "the state of schools", or the "state of young people". What I don't see is anyone really changing anything. Are we voting for people with morals? Are we looking for other choices for schools, or letting the schools know what we want for our kids? Are we expecting our young people to act appropriately with character and morals themselves? Are there any consequences?

We all are politicians and lawyers. We aren't willing to say anything that might not be popular and keep us "in office" with our friends or those we associate with. We just want people to "vote" for us, or to keep us around as "friends". We don't want to rock the boat and upset the masses. We just want to represent the causes that bring us the most "money" or reward. The state of this country is in the hands of its people.

Coop or not?

I have been homeschooling for 9 years now. It started because I strongly disagreed with what was being presented to my 5/6 year old in Kindergarten. I spent 6 long months praying for a better choice for my daughter. The answer was to keep her at home. My very supportive husband said "Sure, we can always send her back if it doesn't work out". Now his views are "there is no way we'll ever send them to public schools".

I was nervous our first couple of years. Could I do this on my own? Were they going to have any friends? You could probably add a lot more questions that ran through our heads. We thought them all.

A friend told me about a Co-op. What's that? It is where two or more families get together and share teaching. I hate teaching Art. So we have always looked for classes or co-ops for this subject. We have found co-ops at a local church, at charter schools, at other homeschooler's homes, paid for classes, etc.

There are many benefits to co-ops. One being that you get great classes in subject areas you aren't comfortable teaching. It is also a great place to meet different people and maybe make a friend or two.

Co-oping subjects has many benefits. One I like the most is getting to do field trips with other kids. This past week we went to Heber City, Utah and road the Heber Creeper and learned about the railroad. It was a lot of fun for the kids because they met familiar faces there. Sitting on the train with just mom might not have been as much fun as riding with friends and joking around.

How do you find Homeschool groups? I love to google. When we move to new place I google Homeschool groups in (name of town/area). There will usually be a half dozen or so.

As time went on I got braver and hosted classes at my house. This past year we had a great time with Astronomy and we just finished a class on Water Colors where I had a local artist come and teach the kids. We had 7 other kids come and join us.

The great thing about homeschooling is that you are in charge and control of what your child is learning. The possibilities are endless. No one to tell you your child isn't old enough, or your child isn't good enough, or to measure your child by an arbitrary measuring stick.

I say Co-op when you can find a class your child has interests in.

Happy trails!

It's Field Trip Season!

Spring is in the air and we are all itching to get out and enjoy it. Open High School had a great field trip to Antelope Island on Thursday. Siblings were more than welcome to come along.



It was a wonderful adventure. The long drive was worth it. The Naturalist made the information she gave so very exciting to listen to. And she did a great job getting the kids to ask questions. I think my youngest (10 years old and not in the class) asked more questions than anyone. He was so interested in the Bison.



It was beautiful out. The Great Salt Lake was in the background of the Bison grassing out in a distance. April is a great month to go because the bugs haven't come out yet! Big plus.

Great words from April General Conference

L. Tom Perry:

Teaching in the home is becoming increasingly important in today’s world,
where the influence of the adversary is so widespread and he is attacking,
attempting to erode and destroy the very foundation of our society, even the
family. Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and
important responsibility. While other institutions, such as church and
school, can assist parents to “train up a child in the way he [or she]
should go” (Proverbs 22:6), ultimately this responsibility rests with
parents. According to the great plan of happiness, it is parents who are
entrusted with the care and development of our Heavenly Father’s children.
Our families are an integral part of His work and glory—“to bring to pass
the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). On God’s eternal
stage, it is usually intended that parents act as the central cast members
in their children’s lives. Fortunately, there are understudies involved in
the production who may step in when parents can’t. It, however, is parents
who have been commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and
truth (see D&C 93:40).

Parents must bring light and truth into their homes by one family prayer,
one scripture study session, one family home evening, one book read aloud,
one song, and one family meal at a time. They know that the influence of
righteous, conscientious, persistent, daily parenting is among the most
powerful and sustaining forces for good in the world. The health of any
society, the happiness of its people, their prosperity, and their peace all
find common roots in the teaching of children in the home.

(April 2010 General Conference)

College requirements Arrggghhh..they're a changin'

I discovered this week that BYU's admissions requirements are going to be changing. Yes, it is going to be even more difficult to get in. No longer will a simple 4.0 GPA get you in. They will be looking for service in the community, organizations you were a part of, etc. Matter of fact, it will be the new requirement.

After looking into different ideas we came across a fun activity for Shelby to participate in. www.missuoteen.com or Miss Utah Outstanding Teen.

I know you are thinking...no way! Not a beauty pageant! But this one isn't your average pageant. It is service and academic oriented. The judges look at service you have done that is related to your platform. And they also want someone who is doing very well in school. There is a separate award for academics. Shelby is so excited about it. We certainly don't expect to win. But look forward to participating in a great program that will not only inspire us to work on more service, but will look good on transcripts.

You can help us think of a catchy name for Shelby's platform. It is a program to help young kids want to read more.

The light at the end of the tunnel

April is here already! Time to check what needs to be finished and bring out some fun things to replace the things that are completed.

Thanks to all the people out there who post ideas, websites, opinions, opened their home for classes, etc., and that have helped us along our journey of homeschooling.

There was a great article in the Washington Post. If you have a chance read it. It will make you feel good about pioneering this great movement of parents choosing a better education for their children. http://virtualschooling.wordpress.com/2010/03/30/washington-post-lets-move-learning-online/ .

We decided to have our 9th grade daughter participate in an online High School Program this year. It was the schools first year. For the most part it has been wonderful. There have been issues with some content that I have voiced my concern about. Pictures that went with the text that I deemed inappropriate. Videos that were used as part of the "learning experience" that I thought my 13 year old didn't need to watch. Surprisingly I caught a lot of heat for my dissension.

I don't think that that schools should take all the heat for poor education in this country and for the decline of values. Parents who don't demand change or just let the status quo continue are to blame. The boat needs to be rocked if the strokes being taken are taking you and your family on the wrong path.

I know everyone wants OHSU to be successful. But ignoring issues doesn't make it a better place. Voicing concern in programs will only make it better.

At the end of the year I can put my stamp of approval on

Apologia Science books. - best curriculum. We learned so much and had a blast.

Draw Write Now - Great writing tool. My kids loved drawing and then looking up more facts.

Open High School of Utah - Opened a lot of doors of discussion. Look forward to adding their math program next year. Teachers were very attentive and responded quickly. They seemed more concerned on learning the material than deadlines. I really appreciated that. But you need to watch content. Videos and pictures might be more worldly than you would like. But if you are involved you can have great discussions.

We are still looking for that great Math program. We don't think one program fills in the gaps. So we will continue to change it up and use various tools in teaching in this area. Saxon is good - but dry. Aleks.com is wonderful - but the kids don't like everything online.

K12 has a great History program. We really enjoy the teaching of true History. American History had nothing deleted. History is History. Deleting facts and not teaching them doesn't change the fact that they happened. If we don't learn about our past we will just make the same choices and not learn or get better.

See my post on teaching Mediocrity.

This summer will be filled with Math and Reading, summer camp programs, an exchange student from Germany, 4th of July celebrations,EFY, and some relaxation.

Wow! Our Spring Vacation was over in a blink. What wonderful memories we made together. I'm not sure which one is my favorite.

It was a joy to feel the excitement before we left. Did we pack everything? Would we have a ride to the airport? It was great. We did forget a few things. And we had a last minute change in who drove us to the airport. But we worried for nothing because in the end it didn't change our experience. It made for great stories afterwards.

I found a new found hope in Mankind on our trip. We found kindness in the most unexpected places.

Our first day was spent in Ft. Lauderdale. We had the most amazing hotel. The staff there was so cheerful and helpful. On an outing that day to pick up sunblock and drinks we had a frustrating event. The bag holding all our drinks ripped open. You can imagine where all the drinks ended up. Yep..busted open on the pavement. In my frustration I didn't display the best decorum. But in the midst of the chaos a young man came along and joked with us and helped us pick up the drinks that hadn't busted open. With a smile and a few jokes he had brightened our day.

On our cruise Rick and Ricky picked up a basketball game with a family from Germany. The young boy was a little older than Ricky but it turned out to be a new friend. We seemed to run in to the family almost everywhere we went. It was fun. The young boy was learning English and found it refreshing that Ricky enjoyed talking to him. At the end of the cruise the family asked us if we would be willing to host their older son as an exchange student this summer. We were quite flattered. We'll see if that works out. Some logistics...like there son is the same age as my daughter.

I love the Caribbean. It must be the weather. I had the best time in Nassau with my sister and my husband. We just walked the streets window shopping. We found some local police who were willing to stand with us and take pictures. We have been there more times than I can count, yet I find it one of my favorite places to visit. Shelby went with her uncle and cousin and they rented scouters and road around the island for the day. The straw market is always fun. I get a kick out of bargaining with them. Found a few purses, a wallet, and a few necklaces for the girls. Paid what I wanted. So much fun. Great memories.

The first few days my kids and their cousin (who is older than them) hung out and played video games together. By the end of the second night they had made friends in their kids groups and were off doing their thing. It is so nice to have cousins who love my kids. Even though there is an age difference they appreciate the kids and have always been loving and generous with them.

Our excursion we had planned in the Caymans was canceled because of bad weather. It turned out to be a great blessing. Instead of going by ourselves we spent some fun time with the whole family eating lunch and the kids got to play in a pool and dance with Grandma. We then got a taxi and went to "Hell" and a turtle farm where we got to hold turtles. The kids also got a kiss from a dolphin. All this was with my sisters family as well. Shelby was able to spend some great quality time with grandma by herself. Grandma Susie can always make her smile.

Roatan, Honduras was beautiful! We had never been there. We stood on deck as we entered the chanel to dock. It looked like paradise. Rick and Shaun took the oldest kids diving. We were a little late so they did have to wait. But once they got there and were able to dive it was a magical experience. Rick has dreamed of one day taking his kids diving. And that day arrived. Shelby had a panic attack. But all was well and she did fabulous from then on. Their cousin Brandon had never been either and he was a natural. Taylor had a wonderful experience. The diving teacher even held her hand as they swam.

Cozumel is one of my favorite places. As many times as we have been there, there is always a new adventure. This time we wanted to experience the island. We didn't want to do the tourist stuff. So we rented a jeep and drove around all day. It was the best part of the trip. We got lost. But the people were great and got us on track to see the ruins. It helps that Rick speaks spanish. wink. Rick had another dream come true. He was able to take the kids to see the ruins. We then drove to the beach on the other side of where we docked. It was awesome. As we passed people on the road they waved and we yelled Buenas! Just laying on the beach were big shells and we even picked up some brain coral. They had seen it on their diving adventure so it meant a lot to see it on the beach. We even stopped at a local restaurant to have some authentic tacos.

Grandma Susie threw Ricky a birthday party in her cabin. She ordered him two cakes and we sat and enjoyed the company and had a very memorable time. Grandma also spoiled the kids with tokens to the arcade each day. I don't think we could give her enough hugs and kisses.

When the cruise was over it was very sad. We would miss our time together with Kim, Shaun, Brandon, and Grandma and Grandpa.

I can even say it was fun standing with Kim waiting for Rick to come with the car rental. Some good jokes were told. Even the bad experience at dinner with the rude waiter was a memorable time. We stood together and stood up for what was right.

We then drove to our "hometown" of Oviedo and visited some of our best friends. The kids have been friends since they were babies. It is wonderful to be able to stay friends and visit. Dina and Scott made us feel like family while were there. Scott took the kids out on the boat, and Dina made sure we all were comfortable. When I forgot to pack shoes for the kids for church..Dina found them some. When Shelby needed a bathing suit Dina found her one. Dina even bought us our favorite drinks.

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. - Albert Schwietzer

Spring Fever

Every year at this time we get Spring Fever really bad. Especially since we moved from Florida. We were outside all the time in Florida. It seemed it was easy to stay busy. Here in Utah the winters are cold. We stay in most days. It isn't just the restless kids, it's me as well. The house is clean, the school work is done, emails read, phone calls made, ...and it is noon. Now what? The kids don't want to go outside, and if they do it is for just a few minutes.

So what do we do? Instead of trudging through we looked for a new path. The curriculum we were using was monotonous for us during this time. It was awesome..but we needed something new to brighten our thoughts. I decided to do the basics, ie.. Math, Spelling, Reading. I brought out some old drawing books and had the kids spend some time drawing and illustrating. We looked up funny quotes online. We went to the library and stayed there longer than usual. We also started doing a morning devotional. I am going to start letting the kids be in charge of it.

I also decided it was time to spring clean. We spent a few days learning to organize our closets, we dug everything out from under the beds, and we vacuumed those hard to reach spaces behind the dressers. The house felt new and fresh. It did help us feel energized. And now the kids have a different view of what "clean your room" means.

We also decided to take a Spring Break this year. I usually don't have breaks. We do school year round. Keeps life orderly and sane. But this year we are taking a cruise with family and getting away.

I already feel better. I already am excited to "start" again and get more done. That's the beauty of Homeschooling. You can make things fit for you. My kids are doing great. They get quized all the time by non homeschoolers who want to prove they are dumb because they are homeschooled, and it is usually the non homeschoolers who walk away feeling dumb. So I'll stop stressing and enjoy where we are and what we are doing.

I always did walk a different path than those around me. I never had a problem doing my own thing. I want my kids to have that and "Enjoy the Journey", their journey. Not a journey others have determined "normal".

So take a break. Do what needs to get done. Drop what needs to get dropped.

In a world filled with those who aren't learning to control their lives, who are falling victims of depression and boredom, I feel we need to teach our children to take control of situations and turn them around. They need to know they can do things differently and make a happy life without following the routine or norm. When we would come to my dad or mom and say "I'm bored", their reply was "there is pletty to do. Are you sure it's not that you are boring?" My sister and I learned to find the fun, and to make "boring" times good ones. Without that ability I think it would have been easy for us to go along with some of our friends down terrible paths, looking for excitement only to find more sorrow and pain.

(1 Timothy 3:4-5 KJV)
(4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)

Enjoy the Journey