Our Life Is School

2010-09-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 9/13/2010

Outside my window...humid

I am thinking...I've been up since 4:00 am. It's amazing the things you can get done when you get up that early!

I am hearing...Logan playing the keyboard.

I am thankful for...our great weekend! Lots of resting and doing things that I don't normally want to spend too much time doing.

From our lesson plans...Konos character Self Control, math and reading games, lots of reading!

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...

3 bean salad
Asian Salad
Granola Bars
Chicken, Green Beans & Potatoes in Crockpot
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Carbonera Pasta Crusted Pizza

I am going...
Monday - gym, baseball
Tuesday - gym, baseball
Wednesday- gym, baseball
Thursday - Ignite, gym, baseball
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - two baby showers
Sunday - church

I am reading... Never Let You Go by Erin Healy, Habits of a Child's Heart by Valerie Hess, 31 Days of Praise by Ruth Warren, Boxcar Children Big Yo-Yo Mystery

I am hoping...that Logan would quit being cranky. I think he's teething

Around the house...getting boys Fall/Winter clothes out, cutting out stockings that I'm making for Christmas.

Works For Me

2010-08-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

I would have to say we are a very eclectic style of homeschooling family. I like unit studies, bits and pieces from a few curriculum, LOVE hands on games (especially for my wild, wiggly boys), enjoy some structure, firmly believe that you can homeschool your kids for practically free, and think that most of learning is unplanned opportunities that happen during daily life. Through all this I've learned that a very flexible routine work for us, and most kids like to have some sort of structure so that they know what to expect day to day, although they love the choices and creativity of helping pick what they are interested in and what they want to learn.

I thought surely there's someone else out there like me that is a organizer/planner that has learned the balance of organization with creative learning. Workboxes almost had me, but after stalking people who did these for awhile, the thought of having to round up supplies every week and have those stack of boxes sitting around caused me to discard the thought.

We already have a chore card system in place (I did this growing up). It works great because instead of a list that gets marked off and never seen again, you have a tangible card that can be moved to different days of the week within your card box (I'll share about this system soon.)

It finally occurred to me to write all the little creative learning ideas on cards just like chores and have them in boxes for the boys to pick from.

I run across ideas in books, blogs, etc, but to remember the idea was my problem. Then when we were ready to sit down and do activities I wasted so much time trying to find that idea that I was thinking about and the time is gone. Now I just jot it on a card (sometimes with a short description). On the back I put the initial of the kid it is for, what resource I got it from (if I did), and what subject.

Any supplies used just for a particular game goes in a ziploc bag labeled with appropriate items inside, and I mark "bag" on the back of the card.

I keep all supplies on these two shelving systems and the boys can go pick the item out for the card that they want to do.

I also have an "extra" section in the back of their card boxes. No boredom around this house! If they need something to do, they can go look through the extra section for boredom buster ideas! (It never fails that when they are bored I can't think about ideas - now they're all written down).

If you have any questions ask away! I will be sharing more of my resources and activity ideas this week. If you have a good organized/with flexibility system for school activities please share!

2010-08-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

We Haven't Started School Yet

It’s hard not to get caught up in the whole hype of the first day of school. We are going to have an official start day the day after Labor Day, but through my ponderings of what we are going to do through the school year I’ve reflected on what we’ve done this summer. Here is our day Tuesday just to give an example of what our summer break has been like taking a break from “school”.

Early A.M.: While reading my Bible I decide to read a Psalms out loud to my kids. Long discussion ensues on heaven, God, Jesus, making right choices, David, Goliath, Satan, and on and on.

Finish reading our chapter book, The Boxcar Children Caboose Mystery. Questions and discussions about the story and many other random things follow.

Boys go play outside, then inside building legos and skateboard ramps for their lego guys.

Kaden asks to play numberbow with me. Will wants to build a tower. I ask, Will, can you sort this box of legos by color, can you build me a tower with 12 black blocks, can you build me a tower that has a pattern of blue, red, yellow. Ok, so we have some unplanned math.

Throughout the day: Will: “I know what F starts with! Football!” (Same difference. He gets the concept. Discussion follows about other letters and their sounds.)

Kaden: “I’m going to make a mask.” Lots of cutting, pasting, and coloring goes on before he has his creation.

“Let’s write Grandad Bill notes and put them in his mailbox.” Lots of drawing, spelling, coloring, erasing, rewriting, crumpling, starting over until they are happy with their letters and go deliver them.

We picked the garden, played games, drew pictures & did puzzles throughout the day as well.

Lunchtime discussion: Questions: “What is a bobcat?” “What do they eat?” “What animals eat chickens?” “How do chicks hatch?” “Is this a chicken’s arm?” “How big are lions?” “Is Goliath in hell?” “Were angels already on earth or did God create them?” “Do deer eat people?” Very random. Lots of learning and discussion. Zoology, check.

Reading time: Read a book about hot and cold. Discussed weather, friction, seasons, & other random questions. (It takes us a long time to get through books through all the discussions.)Read a book about The Stupids (one of their favorite books). Read Mickey Moonbeam. Talked about outer space, planets, space ships, aliens, etc, etc.

Snack time: I ask if they’ve gotten enough colors of the rainbow in their diet. Discussion follows of healthy foods and the fact that yellow cheese doesn’t count as yellow, but the mango we’re eating does. They go grab a handful of peas, and take a bite of tomato to get a little more colors taken care of for the day.

Driving to the Ignite kick-off: Questions: “How many miles are we going?” “Are we there yet?”“How many miles are left?” “How many minutes are in a year?” “I’m going to count until we get there.” “I’m going the read the signs.” “What is the difference between a farm and a ranch?”“What are boulders?”

And on and on and on and on… That’s just a few of the learning opportunities we had that day and every other day.

So yeah we haven’t “started” school yet. I better get on the ball because I’m afraid they might not learn anything. They might be getting behind! Ha!

This just proves that life really is school, and even though I’m going to throw in a couple of more structured things throughout the year, after our “official start” of school our days just won’t look much different than this one.

2010-02-01T05:42:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 2/1/2010

Outside my window...lots of snow

I am thinking...another day stuck at home... oh well...I love it

I am hearing...Will eating cereal

I am thankful for...my pazzles inspiration and my glue pen (I've been scrapbooking a lot lately)

From our lesson plans...crafts from and to name a few, red, yellow, green, blue. Games from Games for Learning. Lots of reading! Maybe some valentines crafts.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...

(I rarely follow recipes, but I normally look recipes up close to what I make to post for those of you that have asked - I change things a lot too)
Chicken, bacon pizza, salad

Gumbo Soup, turkey kielbasa

0 Point Soup

Chicken salad

Cajun Chicken, wild rice

I am going...
Monday - nowhere
Tuesday - maybe gym?
Wednesday- life group
Thursday - Ignite, gym, baseball practice
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - Super Bowl Party

I am reading... Conspiracy of the Rich, How to Get Your Child Off the Refrigerator and On to Learning

I am hoping...that these roads clear up enough for workers to work on the new house.

Around the house...scrapbooking, straightening, maybe starting sewing on the stockings that I'm making for next Christmas.

2009-10-19T04:39:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 10/19/2009

Outside my window...Dark and windy. Jon had to leave early and I couldn't get back to sleep.

I am thinking...so last week I wasn't ready for baby to come. I'm ready now!

I am hearing...coffee brewing...mmm.

I am thankful for...great friends and family who check in with me during this season of my life.

From our lesson plans...Autumn unit study I got free through The Old Schoolhouse Store. We've been drawing lots of pumpkins around here. Lots of games and reading as usual.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...
Apple Almond Bread
Sweet Potato Bread
High Fiber Oatmeal Banana Waffles
Asian Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Nachos Supreme
Grilled Brats, macaroni salad
Mini Meatloafs

I am going...
Monday - gym, baseball practice
Tuesday - Dr.'s Appt., errands, baseball game
Wednesday- baseball game
Thursday - Ignite, gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Day After Night.

I am hoping...that I can just be at peace and live in this moment even though it seems like so much anticipation for upcoming baby, house, etc. God, help me live for you in this moment!

Around the house...picking out countertops, garage doors, etc for new house. Finally time to pack the bag for the hospital and get the cradle and car seat from friends. Working on Christmas gifts.

Pregnancy pic...40 weeks on Saturday!

Here's the last 4 months...

Join us every monday here.

2009-10-15T03:04:00.000-07:00

Our Homeschool Journal 10/5 - 10/9

We took a break from unit studies to get some more time spent on reading and math skills. As always I try to come up with fun ways to teach skills current to the boys' learning so that they don't even know it's "school".

To help Kaden with his addition and subtraction, in addition to printing numbers, he wrote the numbers from 1 to 30 on individual index cards. We laid them out in order and did counting by twos, fives, and tens. (He got to jump to each index card as he counted it). We counted backwards from 30 a few times, and then he had to do it without looking. I find that "challenges" are a good way to motivate him. I say, "Try to count backwards from 20 before I finish loading the dishwasher", etc. Not only have I given him a challenge, I get housework done too! Getting comfortable with the order of numbers helps him with addition and subtraction equations. Will even joined in on the counting forwards and backwards.

For reading we have been doing thinking games like I'll say, "I'm thinking of something that barks and rhymes with log", etc. Kaden guesses and then gets to give me one. For Will I say, "I'm thinking of something that starts with "B", and he guesses all the words he can think of that start with that sound, etc. We have fun going back and forth with these type of thinking games.

The boys have a favorite that we always come back to. I hide index cards around the room with relevant words, letters, colors, shapes (whatever they need to work on!) around the room. They have to find them and tell me what's on the card. Kaden is currently working on sight words. Will has graduated from colors to letters!

We got a Haloween drawing book that shows step-by-step instructions of how to draw little monsters and things with just shapes and lines. The boys have been having fun with this.

2009-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 10/12/2009

Outside my window...Drizzly and cold. Um, where did Fall go? It seems like Winter already!

I am thinking...I am the wierdest pregnant woman. I was up all night with contractions and was freaking out because I'm not ready for the baby to come yet. I have too many things I still need to do first, so no early baby please.

I am thankful for...Jon being home!

From our lesson plans...Autumn unit study I got free through The Old Schoolhouse Store. Lots of games and reading as usual.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...
Monday - leftovers
Tuesday - breakfast casserole, homeade rolls
Wednesday - out
Thursday - leftovers
Friday - paninis, salad
Saturday - steaks, cheesy potatoes, green beans
Sunday - tuna patties
banana muffins

I am going...
Monday - gym, baseball game
Tuesday - Dr.'s Appt., gym, baseball game
Wednesday- nowhere
Thursday - gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - nowhere
Sunday - family BD party

I am reading... Nothing . . . can't focus on anything right now . . . I need good reading suggestions!

I am hoping...that the building of our house goes smoothly - or at least I can not freak out so much when little hiccups come along the way!

Around the house...ordering dumpster, rock, wood burning stove, jacuzzi tub, etc. for new house.

Here's the progress on our house so far...course by the end of today it will look way different, the framers are so fast!

Join us every monday here.

2009-10-05T05:13:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 10/5/2009

Outside my window...Fall is here! I love it!

I am thinking...I feel great this morning!

I am thankful for...a good night's sleep.

From our lesson plans...we'll be doing some Fall crafts along with our reading, math and writing.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...
Chicken Chili
Veggie Tortilla Pizzas
Spinach Lasagna
Butternut Squash Soup
Breakfast Casserole
Pumpkin Muffins
Homeade Rolls
Homeade Bread

I am going...
Monday - gym, baseball practice
Tuesday - Dr.'s Appt., gym, baseball game
Wednesday- baseball game
Thursday - gym, baseball game
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - family BD party

I am reading... Loving Your Kids is Not Enough, Dark Pursuit

I am hoping...that this baby doesn't decide to come before Jon gets done with this job in Louisiana. I can't believe my due date is two weeks from Saturday! Am I ready??

Around the house...starting some Christmas gifts, getting caught up in Quick Books for the family business.

Join us every monday here.

2009-09-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

Our Homeschool Journal 9/21 - 9/25/09

We had another great week of learning in the Simms' household!

This week in our cooperation study we focused more on cooperating as a family unit.

Our verse was Galations 6:10, So then, while we have the opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are the household of the faith.

We read books about family trees, and drew our own.

We talked about each immediate family members' special job in the family and what would happen if we didn't cooperate together to do what our jobs are. We drew pictures to depict those duties.

Kaden drew us doing chores and Daddy working.

We talked about what made our family special and things we like to do together and drew pictures about it.

Kaden drew us playing games and doing jump rope together.

Will drew us at the beach.

From our Games For Learning book we did:

Road Block (Write words in a path. They can keep driving their car until they come to a word/letter they can't do on their own (roadblock). After helping them with it, they start at the beginning of the road again and continue until they can get all the way to the end of the road.)

Plane Messenger (Kaden made this up, and it works great for reading, spelling and handwriting! We write messages to each other and send the plane back and forth. Kaden has to read what I've written him, learn to spell things he wants to say, and practice writing all without having to just sit through a bunch of boring excercises.) Of course the little stinker likes to have fun with it and wrote "you are bad" and "you pig", but all in fun.

Will likes to work with legos for learning colors, counting and fun!

2009-09-28T05:10:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 9/28/2009

Outside my window...my new house! :-)

I am thinking...boys sure are wild!

I am thankful for...great family and friends. For those of you who think I have it all together with all that is going on in my life right now, I really don't. And if it seems like it, it's only because of awesome people in my life helping and supporting me.

From our lesson plans...wrapping up our cooperation unit study. Current favorite learning games - word plane (Kaden made this up), roadblock.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...

Banana muffins
Amish friendship bread
Succatash
Black bean nachos supreme
Curried Chicken
Roasted red pepper hummus

I am going...

Monday - gym, dinner at parents
Tuesday - pick out windows and rock, Dr.'s appt, gym, baseball game (Ali is watching the boys for me!)
Wednesday- nowhere
Thursday - Ignite, gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, bible study God's Love Alive in You by Kay Arthur that I'm doing with my accountability partner.

I am hoping...things go smoothly with the construction of the house.

Around the house...organizing the office/craft room (I can't wait til we move, it's driving me crazy!)

Picture thought I'm sharing...I can't believe we're going to have a baby in about 4 weeks! Starting to get excited about the little bundle, even though it doesn't seem like it should be here already.

Join us every monday here.

2009-09-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Our Homeschool Journal September 14 - 18

My little guys and I have had fun doing our cooperation unit study. I felt led to do a study based on this after praying for my boys to really learn to get along and love each other. It started with finding a book called 101 Activities for Siblings Who Squabble. Then I found a great unit that Konos had on cooperation, and I just built a unit around those things. I've also used Team Challenges by Kris Bordessa and The Siblings Busy Book by Lisa Hanson in my unit.

We say the definition for cooperation every morning - "Cooperation is working well together".

Our verse has been: Romans 12:4-8 about how we each have a special function and have to learn to work together.

We've read stories about siblings in the Bible and talked about how they did/did not cooperate.

I did a keyword search at the library and checked out lots of fiction books on brothers and siblings and we read them and talked about how they did or didn't cooperate. We took this further and let the boys act out the good and bad ways the kids were in the books.

The boys got tied together and had to cooperate to do certain chores together.

We played cooperative games where there was no winner like treasure hunt.

We sang songs in rounds - Row, Row, Row Your Boat and Frere Jacques.

We told a story together each taking a part and adding on as it got to our turn.

We drew a picture of a monster together. Taking turns adding a part until it was complete.

The boys did cooperative tasks together like making a sandwich and we talked about how they could work together and cooperate.

Besides our unit we are doing games from Games for Learning. Number Bow has been a current favorite. (Roll dice, whatever they add up to you get to color that number in the number bow until it is all filled up.) Kaden has almost mastered his addition from games from these books, and he doesn't even think it's learning.

Will is working on number and letter recognition, and we are playing the Memory game many times a day.

At Ignite our Homeschool Co-op Will is doing:

Magic School Bus Science
Art
Playground and Learning Games

Kaden is doing:

Art
Science
P.E.

That is what we've been learning lately. Thanks for sharing in Our Life is School adventures!

2009-09-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 9/21/2009

Outside my window...wet and soggy. . . again. I like the cool weather though.

I am thinking...I finally feel pregnant and it's getting hard!

I am thankful for...our house being started.

From our lesson plans...continuing in our cooperation unit study. Focusing on family roles and learning our family tree this week. Current favorite learning games - number train, memory, addition war, number bow.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...

Spinach sausage breakfast casserole
Amish Friendship Bread (anyone want a starter?)
Baba Ganoush
Baked potatoes and chopped green salad
Oatmeal pineapple muffins
Asian Salad, Grilled Chicken
Black Bean Burritos, Guacamole

I am going...

Monday - nowhere
Tuesday - girls brunch w/ family, gym
Wednesday- clean Grandma's, Konnect, bible study
Thursday - Ignite, gym, baseball game
Friday - Martin Nature Field Trip
Saturday - baby shower, baseball game, birthday party, scrapbooking (whew!)
Sunday - baby shower

I am reading... Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, bible study God's Love Alive in You by Kay Arthur that I'm doing with my accountability partner.

I am hoping...I can be content with this new "pregnant" feeling . . . I don't like slowing down.

Around the house...maintaining. Ordering stuff for cloth diapers. Sewing baby gifts.

Pregnancy Pic of the Month... 8 months

Join us every monday here.

2009-09-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 9/14/2009

Outside my window...wet and soggy.

I am thinking...My heart goes out to our other friends who lost their foster child. Feels like a repeat from 8 months ago.

I am thankful for...our construction loan closing tomorrow. It's about time!

From our lesson plans...this is our first full blown week of our school schedule this year. We are doing a cooperation/getting along with your sibling unit study partly from Konos and other sources I've found and put together. We are doing reading and math from Games For Learning, plus a little of Hooked on Phonics. We are continuing our weekly library trip where we check out an average of 60 books per week and read a lot! And we start our homeschool co-op, Ignite Thursday morning.

From the kitchen...baking and cooking this week...
Veggie Bean Soup, homeade bread
Pasta, chicken, veggies w/ balsalmic and olive oil
Mexican Lasagne
Super Power Muffins
Sandwich Pitas

I am going...
Monday - gym, baseball practice
Tuesday - house closing, Dr.'s Appt, gym, baseball game
Wednesday- Konnect
Thursday - gym, baseball practice
Friday - Tobin's BD party
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, The Rook, bible study God's Love Alive in You by Kay Arthur that I'm doing with my accountability partner.

I am hoping...That I didn't gain too much weight since my last appt. Only 1 pound the last appt which had been three weeks! The gym is paying off!

Around the house...Continuing my education on my Pazzles digital cutter & my Nikon D60. Getting Fall and Winter clothes out and organizing.

Pics from last weekend in Louisiana...

Join us every monday here.

2009-09-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

Baby Simms - 32 Weeks

It was so fun to see baby Simms again before we get to hold her/him. I was expecting a little better view, but I guess as the baby gets older they are more smooshed and therefore harder to see. Still we could tell it looked a lot like Will when he was born. I was a little freaked out about seeing something I shouldn't too, but we were told to turn our heads at the appropriate times.

Fat lips and cheeks. So cute!

Daddy is relieved baby is definately NOT a Texas fan.

Flexible indeed. Toes are touching the forehead!

Everything looked great. Baby weighs about 4.4 lbs.

2009-08-31T06:48:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 8/31/2009

Outside my window...boys playing

I am thinking...I'm excited about the ultra sound tomorrow!

I am thankful for...great relationships with my kids

From our lesson plans...continuing our math games (war, zap, go fish). I got the whole set of hooked on phonics at a garage sale last weekend for $5! Excited about implementing some of this program into our current reading stuff.

From the kitchen...

Grilled chicken, asian broccoli slaw salad
Turkey Reubens, sweet potato fries
Penne pasta with veggies and balsalmic and olive oil

I am going...
Monday - gym
Tuesday - ultra sound, Dr.'s appt, lunch w/ sisters, gym, baseball practice
Wednesday- nowhere
Thursday - gym, baseball practice
Weekend - Louisianna

I am reading... How to Have a Mary's Heart in a Martha World, The Boneman's Daughter by Ted Dekker

I am hearing...quiet . . . ah . . .

Around the house...not much. Decided I will forgo any deep cleaning until we move in June.

Pic of the week...
Kaden just learned to blow bubbles with bubble gum.

2009-08-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Latest Scrapbooking Pages . . .

If you're a scrapper you know there's a few pages you just keep putting off because of whatever reason. Well, in the last few weeks I've finally tackled some of those from last year.

This is Kaden last summer - 'bout time don't ya think?

This was last Fall. My family with us kids all grown up now.

We went bowling with some good friends of ours and had a blast last year!

This is Kaden on his dirt bike with the training wheels. He doesn't need the training wheels anymore!

And Will is learning how to ride a bike. It's doubly hard since we don't have any concrete!

Here's the various things we did last Fall. Fun times!

I went all out sewing pirate costumes last year. Good thing, because this year they'll have to wear something out of the dress-up box and hope someone else can take them trick or treating. Hoping to have our new little pumpkin right around that time.

And finally one from this year. This boy really does live up to this name!

Notice some of my fancy new cuts from my new Pazzles Inspiration. I am loving that thing! I have SO much to learn about it though.

Thanks for looking.

2009-08-24T07:24:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 8/24/2009

Outside my window...loving these cooler mornings and evenings!

I am thinking...I wish I got more sleep last night . . . baby likes to move too much.

I am thankful for...many blessings in my life . . . I feel like we're in a season of blessings right now.

From our lesson plans...easing back into doing our daily chart. Focusing on reading and starting a new math program.

From the kitchen...lots of leftovers, so I don't have to cook each night, but here's my plan w/ the leftovers.
Monday - succatash
Tuesday - black bean burritos
Wednesday - taco ring
Thursday - crockpot stuffed peppers
Friday - crockpot stuffed peppers
Saturday - taco salad

I am going...
Monday - clean Grandma's, gym, Ignite kickoff (homeschool co-op)
Tuesday - gym, baseball practice
Wednesday- nowhere
Thursday - gym, baseball practice
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - White Water, church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Loving Your Kids on Purpose, The Boneman's Daughter by Ted Dekker

I am hearing...boys reading books

Around the house...doing some scrapbooking (pics to come this week), washing and waxing the truck, selling my I-pod on Ebay.

Pregnancy pic of the week (7 months or 31 weeks)...37 inches around!

Join us every monday here.

2009-08-10T05:29:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 8/10/2009

Outside my window...peaceful

I am thinking...I miss Jon :-(

I am thankful for...fun day with my boys yesterday

From our lesson plans...Magic School Bus Unit study, lots of reading

From the kitchen...
Monday - baked salmon, tabouleh, baked sweet potato fries
Tuesday - leftovers
Wednesday - zucchini pizza
Thursday - crockpot stuffed peppers
Friday - at the lake
Saturday - at the lake
Sunday - at the lake

I am going...
Monday - gym, errands
Tuesday - Dr.'s Appt, gym, baseball practice
Wednesday- clean Grandma's
Thursday - gym, baseball practice
Friday - Lake Eufaula w/life group
Saturday - Lake Eufaula w/ life group
Sunday - Lake Eufaula w/ life group

I am reading... Loving Your Kids on Purpose

I am hoping... (and believing) to practice patience w/ my boys

I am hearing...boys eating their oatmeal

Around the house...Baking - homeade granola bars, super power muffins, figuring out my new Pazzles Inspiration (woo-hoo!) and doing some scrapbooking, ordering the materials for the cloth diapers I will be sewing soon.

A pic from the wedding. So happy for my sister!

Join us every monday here.

2009-07-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

Our Life Lately . . .

Kaden turned 6 in June!

He lost his 2nd tooth on his birthday!

We've been playing a lot of games this Summer.

Thanks to Uncle Alexander, their new love is chess, and they are quite good!

Both boys have played on the same T-ball team this summer.

We're about 3 weeks out on starting the footings for our new house. Here's Jon getting the dirt work done.

(With a little help from Will)

We've been drawing a lot too and now have a hall display so the refrigerator doesn't have to stay quite as full with artwork.

I've enjoyed getting to know my camera and photoshop a little more, but I still have a lot to learn.

That's a little glimpse into our life lately!

2009-07-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 7/20/2009

Outside my window...A little reprieve from the 100 degree weather.

I am thinking...Waiting on other people to do things is hard. (Bids on our house is taking forever!)

I am thankful for...homeade granola.

From our lesson plans...summer reading program at the library. The Book of Virtues unit studies. Drawing.

From the kitchen...

Monday - carbonara deep dish pasta crusted pizza, salad

Tuesday - roast, carrots, potatoes

Wednesday - farmer's chicken

Thursday - leftovers

Friday - kabobs

Saturday - frozen pizza (I'll be gone)

Sunday - steaks, baked potatoes, salad

I am wearing...black capris, t-shirt (still no maternity clothes! I'm a rebel!)

I am going...

Monday - gym, errands
Tuesday - Dr.'s Appt, T-ball game
Wednesday- gym

Thursday - T-ball practice

Friday - nowhere

Saturday - Anna's personal shower

Sunday - church

I am reading... Vienna Prelude, Loving Your Kids on Purpose

I am hoping... To hear stuff about the house this week.

I am hearing...boys drawing

Around the house...Baking -need to do something with apples, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, sewing, excercising, laying out in the sun.
Pregnancy pic of the week...this week marks 6 months! Measuring 36" around the waist. Yikes!

Join us every monday here.

2009-07-06T05:19:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 7/6/2009

Outside my window...All leveled for the new house!

I am thinking...I sure love my new laptop.

I am thankful for...A hard working hubby. Three day weekend and he works HARD at home the whole time.

From our lesson plans...summer reading program at the library. The Book of Virtues unit studies.

From the kitchen... Jon's going out of town . . . again . . .poor Baby . . . poor me
Monday - leftovers
Tuesday - leftovers
Wednesday - quinoa edamame salad

Thursday - leftovers
Friday - turkey burgers, sweet potato fries
Saturday - broccoli rice casserole

Sunday - grilled chicken and veggies, skillet potatoes

I am wearing...undies and tank top. Still haven't gotten dressed

I am going...
Monday - gym, errands

Tuesday - T-ball game

Wednesday- gym
Thursday - T-ball practice
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - nowhere

Sunday - church

I am reading... home building books, Try Darkness by James Scott Bell.

I am hoping... Getting bids from subcontractors goes smooth the next couple of weeks. I'm trying my hand at being a GC.

I am hearing...big diesel engine of hubby's dully - he's leaving

Around the house...Baking, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, sewing, excercising, laying out in the sun.

Pregnancy pic of the week...24 weeks

Join us every monday here.

2009-06-29T05:25:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 6/29/2009

Outside my window...Pretty. A little break from the 100 degree weather will be nice.

I am thinking...I love fresh blueberries.

I am thankful for...Great family time this weekend with my hubby being back in town.

From our lesson plans...summer reading program at the library. We've been counting money as the boys save up for some much coveted knights, horses and dragons. We've been doing a countdown of Kaden's birthday. It will be over tomorrow!

From the kitchen... Jon's out of town . . . again . . .

Monday - leftovers

Tuesday - chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans (Kaden's BD dinner that he chose)

Wednesday - pita veggie pizzas

Thursday - leftovers

Friday - farmer's chicken

Saturday - sausage, pepperoni, alfredo pizza

Sunday - beer but chicken

I am wearing...workout clothes. Ready to hit the gym!

I am going...

Monday - clean Grandma's, T-ball game
Tuesday - nowhere
Wednesday- gym

Thursday - T-ball practice

Friday - nowhere

Saturday - nowhere
Sunday - church

I am reading... home building books, Try Darkness by James Scott Bell. Thanks to our laid back weekend I read a whole novel on Saturday!

I am hoping...We get our house plans finalized this week

I am hearing...nothing. Boys are still sleeping

Around the house...Baking, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, sewing, excercising, laying out in the sun. Dozer coming on Saturday!

Picture though I'm sharing...We are in the process of turning this

Into this

Join us every monday here.

2009-06-22T07:13:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 6/22/2009

Outside my window...Hot and sunny already!

I am thinking...We need to take a break from the sun today.

I am thankful for...oatmeal.

From our lesson plans...summer reading program at the library. Coloring, drawing, playing legos, gardening, etc.

From the kitchen... Jon's out of town . . . again, but I'm going to cook this week! Me and the boys are tired of sandwiches!

Monday - chicken, sweet potatoes, steamed swiss chard

Tuesday - leftovers

Wednesday - red pepper, asparagus, chicken pizza

Thursday - out

Friday - pesto and veggie pasta

Saturday - grilled chicken

Sunday - barbecue in the crockpot

I am wearing...old dancer shirt and shorts

I am going...

Monday - nowhere

Tuesday - bank for our home mortgage, gym, errands, T-ball

Wednesday- nowhere

Thursday - Dr.'s appt, gym, T-ball

Friday - nowhere, friends coming over

Saturday - nowhere

Sunday - church

I am reading... home building books, Much More! (as suggested by my wonderful Grandmother)

I am hoping...Our home building will go smoothly

I am hearing...Will talking to pretend friends

Around the house...Baking, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, sewing, excercising, laying out in the sun. (What's new???)

Pregnancy Picture of the Week...5 months...

Current Family Pics ...

Join us every monday here.

2009-05-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

Baby Simms

Jon and I were so excited to get to see our new baby so up close and personal today. The technology of the 4D ultra sounds are amazing. Due to the very mild case of chicken pox I ended up having, my doctor wanted me to see a high risk pregnancy doctor and get this good ultra sound to really check things out. Things all checked out great!

Here's our new baby!

The baby was a little shy at first.

Then we got a good peek at the face.

The tech was careful not to leave it on any shots of "that" area so we would not see the sex of the baby since we want to be surprised. She liked knowing our secret. It was easier than I thought it would be to be ok with waiting.

Another exciting thing about today . . . I'm 2 weeks farther along than we originally thought putting the due date at Oct. 24th!

2009-05-19T16:42:00.000-07:00

No Worries . . .

When I first started having children God took me on a journey of finding time to slow down and just enjoy life. No more hard core striving in career or personal pursuits. It took me until about 1 year ago to really learn this to the fullest. We sure do get more out of life now that we learned to just BE.

When summer hits we really let loose and just enjoy nature.

I have been having fun learning more and experimenting with photography.

We've been hanging out by the pool now (even though the water's still really cold!)

We take lots of walks and check out the progress of our gardens.

We cook hotdogs and marshmallows around the fire pit at Mimi and Grandpa's.

The boys climb everything in sight.

The words hurry, stress and busy just don't fit into our vocabulary anymore. This is about all we'll be doing all summer. I can't wait to look back after the summer's over and see how much we learned just from having no worries and just BEing.

2009-05-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 5/18/2009

Outside my window...BEOOOOOTIFUL!!!! This week is going to be awesome in the 80's. No rain!

I am thinking...Maybe this weather will inspire me to do more.

I am thankful for...friendships. I have never been more blessed in this area than right now.

From our lesson plans...reading character building books based on animals. As desired we will study the specific animals and draw them. (Kaden thinks we shouldn't have to do "school" anymore since it's almost summer).

From the kitchen...
Monday - barbecue chicken pineapple pizza, salad
Tuesday - grilled chicken, sauteed veggies, baked potatoes
Wednesday - out
Thursday - mexican lasagne
Friday - mini meat pies, salad
Saturday - breakfast pizza
Sunday - beef quesadillas, homeade salsa and chips

I am wearing...capris and pink shirt

I am going...
Monday - clean Grandma's
Tuesday - nowhere, friends coming over
Wednesday- brunch w/ some girls, out to dinner with life group
Thursday - ultra sound (woopee!!), PE, gym
Friday - Jasmine Moran Children's Museum w/ friends
Saturday - nowhere
Sunday - church
Whew! Busy week!

I am reading... Elijah by Charles Swindoll, photography books, Seams to Me

I am hoping...I don't accidentally see the sex of our baby at the 4D ultrasound. We want to be surprised this time!

I am hearing...Boys playing, birds chirping, wind softly blowing.

Around the house...Baking, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, sewing, excercising, laying out in the sun.

Pregnancy Picture of the Week...16 weeks...

Join us every monday here.

2009-05-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Our Latest Creations . . .

My boys' choice of movies last weekend during the rainy days were Peter Pan and Robin Hood that we had rented from the library.

They decided they wanted hats, and asked me to make them for them. I love that they just assume I can make anything, and I am so thankful when I can follow through.

I found a basic hat tutorial online, and then we played around with it to get it just right. Note the "sticking out part" that Kaden added to his hat. (very important) Kaden is Robin Hood.

Will is Peter Pan.

We've played a little Rock Band around here (who needs an X Box when you can do it like this?)

The boys wanted to make "pirate ships" out of tortillas. It was a yummy crunchy snack after we baked them in the oven!

I cooked a double batch of granola this week (we already ate 1/2 the bag).

And today I tried a double batch of Super Power Muffins (that I found on the comment section of Money Saving Mom's blog.

Here's my version:

Super Power Muffins:

3/4 cup brown sugar (I don’t pack it!)

3/4 cup Splenda

1 cup natural peanut butter

2 small or 1 large banana

1 cup of apple sauce or carrot puree

2 eggs

2 cups whole wheat flour

2 tsp baking powder

2 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all dry ingredients well and set aside. Blend everything else and then add in dry ingredients. Spray muffin tray. Bake for 15-18 min. Makes 24.

These were super!!!

2009-05-04T06:28:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 5/4/2009
(Although my computer changed itself to say July 4th, 2009. Hmm . . . )

Outside my window...slowly drying out. Finally going to stop raining by the end of the week and get warm like May should be!

I am thinking...As of today I am giving up this junk food obsession that I've had being pregnant. If I keep this up I'll be huge. Plus I've been feeling yuck thanks to eating like that!

I am thankful for...my new haircut. I think it's time to start getting it done every 3 months instead of 4.

From our lesson plans...reading a bunch of kids gardening books and doing some gardening activities. (The rain totally messed up all plans for last week).

From the kitchen...
Monday - brats, homeade mac n cheese, salad
Tuesday - hamburgers, sweet potato sticks
Wednesday - homeade veggie pizza
Thursday - leftovers
Friday - penne w/ chicken, spinach and tomatoes
Saturday - breakfast pizza
Sunday - chili relleno casserole

I am wearing...jammies still

I am creating...scrapbook layouts, painting a bookshelf, and making a hallway art display. (All the same stuff as forever. Ugh! I've got to get more motivated!

I am going...
Monday - nowhere
Tuesday - PE, gym
Wednesday- nowhere
Thursday - PE, gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - nowhere
Sunday - church

I am reading... Elijah by Charles Swindoll (I just realized yesterday, I'll be really prepared for the upcoming sermon.) The Noble Fugitive by T. Davis Bunn

I am hoping...The better weather will help me be motivated to eat good and get stuff done.

I am hearing...The quiet before a storm. My boys are down at Mimi's getting my nieces. When those 4 are together it's anything but quiet!

Around the house...Baking gingerbread muffins, pancakes, cinnamon rolls. Gardening

Spiritual hope for me this week..."Speak Lord, in the stillness, While I wait on Thee; Hushed my heart to listen In expectancy." E. May Grimes

Join us every monday here.

2009-05-01T06:17:00.001-07:00

A Great Marinade!

As requested I am posting one of our favorite marinades. My wonderful Life Group left these kabobs marinating in our fridge as one of the many surprises they left us when we got home from picking Jon up from the airport after his year long deployment.

The marinade works great for any meat. Because I'm cheap I only make 1/2 the marinade.

Chicken Kabobs

8 boneless skinless chicken breast
8 fresh mushrooms
3 large squash
2 bell peppers
1 large onion, sliced into small squares
2 quartered oranges
1 can chunk pineapples
1 pkg. of cherry tomatoes

Marinade
1 can of frozen concentrated, thawed, apple juice (I've used OJ before)
1 cup of white wine (dry)
½ cup soy sauce
Dash of ginger
1/8 cup vinegar
1 cup olive oil
Black pepper and salt to taste

1. Cut chicken into 1 inch squares
2. Thread skewers with vegetables, fruit and meat
3. Place kabobs into shallow pan
4. Combine all of marinate ingredients and pour ¾ over kabobs. Save rest in fridge for basting while cooking
5. Marinate kabobs in refrigerator for several hours
6. Grill and baste with remaining marinate till done

Am I good or what? I even took pictures of the last time I made kabobs in case I wanted to blog about it!

Enjoy!

2009-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

What is "Life is School"?

As you've probably noticed we don't do a lot of structured activities everyday, and especially lately with a pregnant Momma, it's all we can do just to read some books some days. My boys are learning everyday though. You know, you are a homeschool Mom if you are teaching them ANYthing at home, especially if you have a slow pace that they can follow you throughout the day, don't work just on your own agenda all day, and take most every learning opportunity that comes up during the day.

Here is our day yesterday and an example of how everyday our life is school.

We started the day with breakfast. The boys know to clean up after themselves (learning self-discipline). They have chores that they do such as feeding the dog and cleaning up toys, and then follow along and assist me in chores such as, emptying dishwasher, cleaning bathrooms, folding laundry, etc.

They got involved in playing (some kind of thing with cars - great imagination and motor skills, as well as learning to work together. Then they did some coloring.

Mommy took this time to do Bible reading and getting on the treadmill.

They have learned if they let Mommy workout good, then they get a turn on the treadmill. (Great excercise and learning to share.)

We then read a stack full of books that they picked out. This led to many great discussions that followed after each book was read.

We cleaned their room (organization, working together, good stewards.)

They helped me make lunch.

We had a fighting incident that led to discussions about sin and being responsible for our own choices no matter what another person does to you.

Somewhere along in there came questions about how a fan works, and we discussed the basic workings of a motor and electricity.

We watched some birds out our window. It's funny hearing the boys try to remember the names of the different kinds of birds that come along.

Kaden's really into addition right now too. He likes to figure out what 100 plus 100 makes, and so on.

Shoe sizes came up and we talked about how funny it was that it went up to 12 and then started over at 1. Kaden said, "Just like clocks!" Wow! I hadn't even thought of that!

They got good wrestling time with Daddy while Mommy cooked dinner. And then more books before bed.

For an unstructured, unplanned day I think they learned quite a bit! And that's how we do life around here. Always learning!

2009-04-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 4/27/2009

Outside my window...Wet. Looks like we might have a lot of rain this week.

I am thinking...I wonder what the Doctor will say today.

I am thankful for...my precious boys.

From our lesson plans...reading a bunch of kids gardening books and doing some gardening activities.

From the kitchen...

Monday - venison steak, mashed potatoes, salad

Tuesday - cheesy crockpot chicken, zucchini

Wednesday - tater tot casserole

Thursday - spaghetti carbonera, salad

Friday - chicken alfredo pizza

Saturday - leftovers

Sunday - hamburgers

I am wearing...shorts and tank. Bout to get on the treadmill.

I am creating...scrapbook layouts, painting a bookshelf, and making a hallway art display. (All the same stuff as last week because I barely got anything done.)

I am going...

Monday - Dr.'s Appt. (OB)

Tuesday - PE, gym

Wednesday- friends coming over

Thursday - park w/ friends, PE, gym

Friday - nowhere

Saturday - church

Sunday - life group

(ugh, this seems too busy for me)

I am reading... Raising Boys

I am hoping...I can truly die to self more and more and serve my family in the best ways possible.

I am hearing...Will saying he wants a snack. He just had breakfast!

Around the house...Baking apple cinamon muffins, whatever else inspires me throughout the week.

NEW CATEGORY:

Belly picture of the week... Kaden helped me take a picture so we can watch the progress of the baby growing.

Join us every monday here.

2009-04-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

More on Spiders . . .

We painted spiders last week. I am a really bad artist (it is something that has really bothered me through the years - probably because my brother was always so good), but I teach my kids to just keep trying even if it's not perfect. They always want me to paint and draw with them, but I usually don't. I figured I couldn't give them advice if I wasn't taking it myself, so in a search to get better at art I am boldly posting my first attempt. Ha! Don't laugh!

Kaden's

Will's water color was too soggy to post. Gotta work a little more on teaching just a little water.

We went on a nature walk to look for spiders and webs. We found lots (even had one on my leg for about 1 second until I brushed that booger to Timbuktu). Problem - still figuring out the camera and really needing that close-up lens, lens hood, and UV filter that I ordered over the weekend. You can kind of see it if you get real imaginative.

We mostly had fun in our adventure in the woods.

Kaden's shooting a deer with his "bow".

My boys always bring me flowers. So sweet!

Oh, and had to get some skate boarding action on the trampoline when we were done. Real safe huh? People, we don't have concrete!

2009-04-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 4/20/2009

Outside my window...Looks like it's going to warm up, definately by the end of the week we'll have some 80's!

I am thinking...I wonder what the Doctor will say today.

I am thankful for...my husband who stayed with me and doted on me all weekend.

From our lesson plans...finish our spider unit and start another bug unit

From the kitchen...
Monday - lasagne, homeade crescent rolls, salad
Tuesday - brocoli chicken rice casserole, sauteed veggies
Wednesday - turkey bacon pizza, salad
Thursday - leftovers
Friday - venison fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, salad
Saturday - eat out
Sunday - hamburgers

I am wearing...velour pants set - my favorite lounge clothes.

I am creating...scrapbook layouts, painting a bookshelf, and making a hallway art display.

I am going...maybe nowhere if I'm contagious. Guess what? I love staying home!

I am reading... Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, Raising Boys

I am hoping, praying and believing...Proverbs 20:16b Things work out when you trust in God

I am hearing...boys are sitting on my lap and being chattery. Yes, I'm talented. I can hold two boys and type at the same time.

Around the house...Baking gingerbread muffins, grinding and cooking up a big batch of venison, making a big batch of hummus, and lots more I'm sure!

Join us every monday here.

2009-04-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

Baking and Cooking Day

I don't normally have to set aside certain days for big baking and cooking because thanks to my simple life I have time to make whatever I need for that day. It sure is nice though to make a few things at the same time once in awhile since your kitchen is already dirty.

Yesterday I made 3 big batches of things. That's about my limit!

First I made a double batch of pumkin banana muffins adapted from this blog that I found through Money Saving Mom. I made so many changes I'll just type out the whole recipe.

1 c. applesauce
1 c. splenda

1 c. honey
4 eggs
1/3 c. water
3 ripe bananas
1 c. pumpkin puree
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. soda
1/2 tsp. cinammon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1/8 tsp. allspice

1/8 tsp. cloves
2 c. white flour
2 c. whole wheat flour

Mix and bake in 350 degree oven.

Next I made a double batch of High Fiber Oatmeal Banana Waffles to put in the freezer. I changed this recipe up so much it's not even similar enough to share it's original source.

2 bananas (mashed)
1 1/4 cups oats (or oat bran)
1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup wheat germ

1/4 cup flax seed (ground)
2 cups skim or non-fat dry milk (reconstituted)

2 tablespoons applesauce

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2 teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon baking powder

Mix and prepare in waffle maker.

I was worried that I would have to stand there FOREVER waiting of waffles to cook, but it worked great as I was able to work on other in between cooking.

Third I cooked up a bunch of chicken on the George Forman grill that were used for our paninis last night, and then frozen for upcoming chicken pizza and quessadillas. For casseroles it's cheaper to boil a whole chicken or chicken quarters and debone, but certain recipes just call for that grilled chicken taste.

I like having things ready just to grab for those days I'm feeling a little tired!

2009-04-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

New Camera

I have been wanting a professional style camera for a long time. After dropping my point and shoot camera in December (I swear it was an accident!)and bending the lens, I began thinking more seriously. If I was going to have to spend money on a camera, I might as well get something I really wanted.

It took me this long to shop around, and finally last week I ordered a Nikon D60 that I had decided on.

Thank you to my wonderful husband for getting this for me!

I have a lot of learning to do on taking good pictures, but it sure was fun playing around with it yesterday.

Here are my first shots.

These are shot on Auto

I finally started figuring out Manual. I swear to never shoot in Auto from here on out!

It helped having pretty models at my house today!

And this is my best one of all! So precious!

I know I could edit out the little scratch on her face, but it's so cute too!

2009-04-13T20:00:00.000-07:00

The Very Busy Spider

We started the day reading The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle.

After reading I tested my boys' reading comprehension and asked them to name as many animals in the book as they could remember. They did pretty good!

We talked a bit about the anatomy of spiders and did some counting of spider legs.

We made spiders out of egg cartons and pipe cleaners.

We made a web out of masking tape and put flies on them that we printed and cutout from the computer.

We did some counting and addition and subtraction with the flies.

Kaden was disappointed when I told him we didn't have the things to make a spider snack, so he said he was going to figure something out. He used marshmallows, peanuts and fiber one cereal. So creative! I'm glad I don't always have the "right" things for projects. It makes us have to think outside the box.

We can't wait to learn more about spiders this week!

2009-04-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 4/13/2009

Outside my window...Cold, wet and mushy. Ick!

I am thinking...Time seems to be flying by! I can't believe it's Monday again.

I am thankful for...my new camera that is coming in the mail this week!

From our lesson plans...back to learning about bugs and insects with our Eric Carle unit.

From the kitchen...
Monday - chicken divan, creamy zucchini spinach bake
Tuesday - crockpot venison stroganoff, salad
Wednesday - hot dogs, homeade mac n cheese
Thursday - grilled chicken, swiss and pepper paninis
Friday - out at friends' house
Saturday - leftovers
Sunday - flautas

I am wearing...velour pants set

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - all the time scrappin'. It's an ongoing process.

I am going...
Monday - nowhere
Tuesday - PE, gym
Wednesday - nowhere, neices coming over
Thursday - PE, gym
Friday - nowhere, friends in the evening
Saturday - church
Sunday - life group

I am reading... Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, Raising Boys

I am hoping...My boys don't go crazy being cooped up from all this rain.

I am hearing...Playing with some little action figures saying, "He can beat you up."

Around the house...Baking, Scrapping, Gardening, I need to get a better way to display my kids art work.

Join us every monday here.

2009-04-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Homeschool Classmates

A lot of my resources come from Preschool and Kindergarten activity books from the library, and often those books are written for a classroom setting. There are just too many games and activities that I like, so I had to come up with extra "classmates" for my boys so that we could still play some of the games.

So we use stuffed animals and beany babies.

We line them up, put them in our circles, whatever the games call for.

One of our favorites is "Ten Little Monkeys". And yes, I let my kids jump on the couch for this game. (I know, I'm a cool Mom!)

These cuddly animals work great for other things in our schooling as well.

We use them for role playing in our character studies. For instance, I give a scenario where they pretend bad manners between their animals, then they do-over the right way. Or their animals will have pretend disobedience to the other "parent" animal, and then we do-over to show the proper obedience. It's a great way to point out behavioral issues that I have observed in my kids without actually having to point my finger at them. They learn so much from having to "instruct" their own little animal.

What other things could we use stuffed animals in our schooling? Hmm . . . I need ideas!

2009-04-07T06:37:00.000-07:00

Word Ball

Having 2 boys ages 5 and 3 you can pretty much assume that we don't sit down and do much formal education. These boys want to move and be wild! So we do!

I also don't believe in pushing learning early, but Kaden has had a big interest in reading since he was almost 4 and with no forcing or working regularly he has enjoyed learning to read. (A lot of it probably has to do with the fact that I'm an avid reader and he wanted to join in with me.)

To reinforce his skills and to have some fun we made these word balls. I chose words that he was good at and ones that could be a challenge as well.

The beach type ball works best. The tape sticks better and it's not as hard on Mom to try and catch. Of course with it's bouncy quality it can get quite crazy. We only broke one vase. ;-)

The boys would catch the ball and then read the word that was closest to them. Will just pretended and we cheered him along.

What's cool is that even after we were done with the game they have continued to play with the balls and reading the words. This sure beats sitting down with a boring text book!

2009-04-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 4/06/2009

Outside my window...Looks cold, but I don't really know. We don't watch the news around here (praise God!) so unless somebody tells me what the weather is going to be like, I usually don't know.

I am thinking... Why do I have so much energy and the naseau has already passed at only 10 weeks of pregnancy? Oh well, I'll take it!

I am thankful for...My life group meeting regularly again. I really missed that time together! What great friends we have!

From our lesson plans...taking a break from Eric Carle to do some easter activities - easter story cookies, resurrection eggs and story, decorating eggs, whatever else I find. Do share if you have any great suggestions!

From the kitchen...
Monday - veggie pasta bake, salad, homeade crescent rolls

Tuesday - crockpot enchiladas, steamed vegetables
Wednesday - veggie pizza, salad
Thursday - creamy crockpot chicken, sauteed zucchini

Friday - leftovers
Saturday - quesadillas, salad

Sunday - cookout at my parents

I am wearing...buckle jeans (getting a little uncomfortable, but I will not give in to bigger sizes yet!)

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - got 2 done yesterday while I watched Nascar with my hubby. I know, so romantic.

I am going...
Monday - cleaning Grandma's
Tuesday - PE, gym
Wednesday - nowhere, friends coming over

Thursday - PE, gym
Friday - nowhere, friends coming over

Saturday - church
Sunday - cookout at my parents

I am reading... Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis (man he's deep!), Twilight, Shiloh (to the boys).

I am hoping...Friends meeting with DHS this morning goes smoothly and they can close the stupid case.

I am hearing...Boys eating oatmeal (yes, it is loud!)

Around the house...Baking, Scrapping, Gardening, organizing clothes once again (I got WAY too much stuff from a clothing and accessory swap this weekend! But they were free and stuff I can really use now, through the pregnancy and after. What a blessing!)

Picture thought I am sharing... My husband got himself a new vehicle.

It only took 4 days for this to happen. ;-)

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-04-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

More on the Ladybugs . . .

If you've read The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle you know that it's a great study in telling time.

We broke out our great little wipe off clock that we got at Wal-Mart for Kaden to practice telling time. He also got great number writing practice in.

We wanted to go on a walk and find some ladybugs outside, but it was a tad bit cold today, and, well . . . we have ladybugs in our house. I know weird huh? I don't know if that's part of country living or what, but through the winter we have ladybugs that stay up on our ceiling. So we found one and studied it and talked about it.

Kaden completed his version of The Grouchy Ladybug book.

Here's his bees.

And his monkeys.

He "read" the book to us, and surprisingly quoted it almost exactly. (Until he started adding his own creative parts like, "You're not big enough, and too smelly" on the skunk part and "You're not big enough and too slimy" on the snake part. Gotta love that creativity!

We touched a bit on how bad for that ladybug that it missed out on a full day and as many aphids as it could eat because it chose to have a bad attitude. My boys were like yeah whatever mom, but I keep at it. They'll remember someday!

2009-04-01T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Great Outdoors

Jon and I have been a little baffled lately at our boys' seeming loss of interest in playing outdoors here recently. Both of us when young practically lived outdoors. Did we really mess up by allowing too much media when they were younger? Have we scarred them for life? Am I being overly dramatic and has it just been the weather?

When we first cut back to no TV during the weekdays at the beginning of the year, they seemed fine, but lately we've had a season where they get bored. And boredom is just not allowed in this house!

After lots of prodding, encouraging and suggestions of play I think we are out of this season!

Many an day will you now find my boys doing this.

Who needs a sandbox when you have this?

And this pile of broken cinder blocks that have been a thorn in my side (the view out my back window) have created many hours of play. When am I ever going to learn to let go and see the beauty of such treasures? I vow that I don't ever want a perfect looking yard and house where kids don't have places to get dirty and play.

This is the current castle they have built. Kaden says that is their work and they have to do it every day to make money like Daddy. He says he is working to be a king and then Will will have to obey everything he says.

More than anything we enjoy hearing Mimi and Grandpa calling out across the pond to where my boys play and being able to share our daily lives with them. (I know they treasure this as well).

Have I ever mentioned how blessed we are to be able to live where we do? ;-)

Do you have any fond memories of playing outdoors?

2009-03-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

The Grouchy Ladybug

Today starts our first day on reading and doing activities based on the book The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle. This is the first unit I've come across that I didn't have to go searching and thinking too hard about extra activities that better fit my boys (and what a blessing because I don't have the energy to do all that right now). Found all the ideas at this link here.

If you're not familiar with Eric Carle books I suggest you check them out. The pictures and stories are great on top of teaching great life lessons and lots to choose from for math, reading and science activities.

After reading the story we read some other fact and fiction books about ladybugs.

Then my boys drew their own ladybugs.

Kaden drew one with a mohawk.

Will kind of got carried away with the black dots!

Kaden is working on drawing the other animals from the book in his own mini book (to be revealed tomorrow).

Will colored a page of ladybugs that we did counting with.

We made ladybug snacks (english muffin, cream cheese w/ food coloring and raisins).

We did lots of counting with the book and little ladybugs that my boys colored.

What a fun unit!

2009-03-30T06:10:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 3/30/2009

Outside my window...Going to warm up to 70 today, but I think the wind will make it not as fun. :-(

I am thinking... Giving myself lots of grace right now. As long as my house is not germy and there's food for my family that's doing good for me.

I am thankful for...That I learned to say no to things. I did it again this week, and it makes me happy that I have more time to be home.

From our lesson plans...bugs - starting an Eric Carle unit (trying to anyway, note the grace thing above). Hopefully finding a caterpillar to watch it turn.

From the kitchen...

Monday - shepherd's pie, salad

Tuesday - chicken, green bean, potato crockpot dish

Wednesday - turkey bacon and avocado pizza, salad

Thursday - spinach lasagne, steamed broccoli

Friday - nachos supreme, salad

Saturday - breakfast food

Sunday - leftovers

I am wearing...black pants, white tank, turquoise hoody

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - got 1 1/2 done yesterday (been too anxious to get them in the book to take pics for the blog, oh well)

I am going...

Monday - nowhere (thanks to saying no!)

Tuesday - PE, gym

Wednesday - playdate with friends

Thursday - PE, gym

Friday - having friends over

Saturday - church

Sunday - life group

I am reading... Supernatural Childbirth, Shiloh (to the boys), browsing through a stack of home building books

I am hoping (believing and claiming!)...Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Cor. 10:5

I am hearing...Not much. Boys are coloring quietly

Around the house...Working in flower beds and garden, washing outside of house and windows (hopefully). Making a big pot of tomato soup for lunches. Organizing maternity clothes and baby stuff that people have already been giving me.

Picture thought I am sharing... These pics are from a March 2008. Oh, how big they are getting!

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-03-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

Games

We have incorporated games into our daily schedule because they can be great learning tools, and well, we just love games!

Some of our favorites are:

Operation (we don't play with the cards and money - just the tweezers and bones)

Chutes and Ladders

Candyland

Hi Ho Cheerio

Leap Frog Go Fish (pictured) (these came with great card holders that we use for our card games)

Our favorite card games:

Go Fish

War

Slap Jack

My boys have learned and reinforced their knowledge of colors, counting, letter sounds, number recognition, and lots more while spending great quality time with Mommy.

You don't have to break the bank collecting games either. We've picked ours up at garage sales, consignment sales, after-Thanksgiving-day sales, and best of all asked for them as gifts from grandparents and friends instead of toys for birthdays.

I encourage you to start your collection and get to playing. It's really fun when you can get Dad in the floor and make a family game night!

2009-03-25T13:24:00.001-07:00

Learning with a Rope

As you can see these pics were taken in December, but this is a game that is requested about once a week in our house. "Can we play with the rope".

I string a rope across the room (attach it somehow to something and then hold the other side.

Then I call out directions. They learn a vast array of motor skills, positional and directional terms, pretending to be certain animals, counting, and on and on.

There are endless things you can do with this. Hop over the rope like a bunny. Stand beside the rope. Put your back to the rope. Crawl like a snake under the rope. Jump 4 times over the rope. Hop 3 times on 1 leg over the rope. Put your left arm over the rope. And on and on and on.

As anytime with creative play I ask them what else they can think of to do with the rope. It's fun to see their little minds work.

2009-03-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 3/23/2009

Outside my window...WINDY!!!

I am thinking... Why did mychildren have to get up at 6am today?

I am thankful for...the comfort of my God. Being able to hear His voice in so many things. He is ALWAYS with me and LOVES me so very much.

From our lesson plans...bugs - starting an Eric Carle unit

From the kitchen...
Monday - chicken quesadillas
Tuesday - Jon's out of town - so sandwiches??? ;-)
Wednesday - Jon's out of town
Thursday - chicken alfredo pizza
Friday - spinach pasta dish
Saturday - biscuits and gravy, eggs
Sunday - leftovers

I am wearing...new zebra T from the Goodwill (only 99 cents -woo!)

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - got 3 done last week and two bags made

I am going...
Monday - clean grandma's
Tuesday - PE, gym, parenting Q & A
Wednesday - nowhere
Thursday - PE, gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Say to this Mountain, Supernatural Childbirth

I am hoping...to get this coffee down me without puking (I just need the caffeine - have an aversion to coffee right now of all things - usally my favorte!)

I am hearing...Boys playing with a toy ship that's really loud!

Around the house...mending Jon's pants, making pear/walnut muffins and homeade cinnamon rolls, working in flower beds and garden, washing outside of house and windows.

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-03-20T13:03:00.001-07:00

Our Frugal Story

I'm sharing it and telling all over here today.

2009-03-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

Oh Beautiful Day . . .

Planning can have its ups and downs especially when teaching young children. The downfall is they don't always want to do your plan, and usually it is best to go with the flow so that they enjoy learning and feel like they can choose what they are interested in. One good thing about planning is that when they think your plan is fun, they get excited.

Today when I told Kaden we were going to make tool/garden belts he just couldn't wait to start. After a morning of going to the gym and having lunch at Ali's we had to get started right away.

He got to help iron out the fabric, cut the pieces, keep track of the steps in the process, push the foot pedal for the sewing machine and cut the threads. We followed this tutorial for our belts.

Of course when Will woke up from his nap we repeated the process for him.

Tomorrow we are going to "decorate" our belts.

After our sewing we headed outside with a picnic basket of snacks, a blanket and books. We rested, ate, sunbathed and read for about an hour and then went on an "adventure" walk.

Have I ever mentioned that I absolutely love my life and where I live??? ;-) Just wanted to make sure you hadn't missed that part.

2009-03-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 3/16/2009

Outside my window...foggy. It's gonna be a great warm day and week!

I am thinking... I'm glad to have a little change in our schedule this week. I like routine, but I get bored with it too.

I am thankful for...living so close to my parents and being able to hang out with them whenever.

From our lesson plans...Making homeade soap for our personal hygeine study, sewing our gardening tool belts.

From the kitchen...

Monday - venison barbecue in the crockpot, salad

Tuesday - crispy ranch chicken, sauteed zucchini

Wednesday - chicken alfredo pizza, salad

Thursday - hamburgers, oven fries

Friday - turkey ham and veggie calzones

Saturday - chicken quesadillas

Sunday - leftovers

I am wearing...lounge pants, peace rocks T-shirt

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - got 1 done last week

I am going...

Monday - gym, Ali's for lunch

Tuesday - nowhere

Wednesday - gym, take meal to family w/ new baby

Thursday - nowhere

Friday - nowhere

Saturday - church

Sunday - Abbi's shower, life group

I am reading... Increase Your Financial IQ, Say to this Mountain (by Bodie Thoene - highly recommend this author for historical fiction)

I am hoping...to feel great this week and get a lot done

I am hearing...Will playing with a little skateboard

Around the house...mending Jon's pants, making muffins and homeade cinnamon rolls, working in flower beds and garden.

One of my favorite things today...the thought of warm weather - I'm going to sunbathe this week!

A Picture of last week... Our little Will seems to be getting so big. He started playing soccer this weekend and wouldn't take that jersey off for 3 days (well once to shower). He was cracking all of us up by showing us his "cocker cocks" (soccer socks) and his "things" (shin guards). He's really into ketchup as you can see here. Our funny guy!

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-03-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Tote Bag Tutorial

After making a few bags from patterns and trying different styles, I finally knew what kind of bag I wanted to make and made my own pattern and directions. Here's my first attempt at writing a sewing tutorial.

I cut my pattern from a brown paper sack. This is the pattern I use for small totes. I just add some on the bottom and sides according for what size I want for bigger totes (I know so specific right?)

You want to cut 4 pieces of this pattern out (2 for the outside, 2 for the liner).

Put the right sides together of 1 outside piece and 1 inner piece and sew up the top, side of the handle (skip the very top of the handle), then go back down the other side of the handle and the other side of the top of the bag. Do this for the other pieces and well. Clip your corners, turn inside out and press.

You will then turn one the sewn piece inside out and insert the other sewn piece inside this to where now all 4 pieces are lined up right sides together . Here I show the process of inserting one side into the other. You will keep pushing that piece in until you can line up the top of the handles and sew a stitch right across the top. Walaa! Your handles are done.

Without much adjusting you should now open it up as shown here to have one big rectangle piece with both outer pieces and both inner pieces right sides together as shown here.

Sew up both sides. Turn your bag to where your handle is pulled out and liner is now inside the bag. All you have now are raw edges on the bottom as shown here.

Now you are going to do a french seam for the bottom. Sew a line along the raw edges. Cut off excess fabric as close as possible to the seam.

Turn inside and out and really press those corners inside (using the tip of a pencil eraser works well). Sew a seam on the bottom on the liner portion now, allowing a large enough seam to make sure it gets all that raw edge tucked up in there.

Here is a look at what the inside will look like once this stitch is complete.

Turn right side out (using that pencil eraser again for the corners). Your bag is now done.

You can use any type of fabric cutouts with iron-on and/or glitz using fabric glue to make your bag glamorous.

Hope you have fun making a bag and let me know if you have any questions!

2009-03-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

Bag Activities

A couple of years ago I had the chance to participate in a preschool activity bag swap. Each mom was assigned an activity to put together from a book (I think it was from 102 I Can Do It Myself Activities). We had groups of 20, so each mom made 20 bags of the same activity and at the swap we received 20 different bag activities.

They are so nice to have on hand for those days when I don't have something planned or we just need a little activity to do to fill some time. My boys enjoy going and picking a bag for what they want to do.

Some examples are stringing beads on pipe cleaner.

A trinket matching game.

A color matching game with cards and paper clips.

There's lots of ABC learning games as well. These are great to have in the car, and really any activity would work if you put all the items ahead of time in a bag.

2009-03-09T07:22:00.000-07:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 3/9/2009

Outside my window...cloudy. I sure wish we could get some rain!

I am thinking... I wish my stomache didn't hurt. Ready for this pregnancy naseau to go away. So thankful to be pregnant though.

I am thankful for...my sensitive husband who is encouraging me to take naps right now and is helping with the meals.

From our lesson plans...Personal hygeine, littering/recycling

From the kitchen...
Monday - breakfast food
Tuesday - roasted chicken and veggies
Wednesday - mexican black bean pizza
Thursday - barbecue sandwiches
Friday - pad thai
Saturday - barbecue quesadillas
Sunday - leftovers

I am wearing...jogging pants, tank top

I am creating...scrapbook layouts - got 2 done last week!

I am going...
Monday - clean Grandma's
Tuesday - swimming lessons, gym
Wednesday - nowhere
Thursday - swimming lessons, gym
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Created To Be His Help Meet (thanks Nicole!), Increase Your Financial IQ (thanks Dad!), Kiss by Ted Dekker (my fav author)

I am hoping...to not be grouchy when I don't feel good

I am hearing...boys playing ball

Around the house...making homeade granola and blackberry muffins. Lots of gardening.

One of my favorite things today...dry toast

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-03-04T18:47:00.001-08:00

The Food Pyramid . . .

We studied about the food pyramid today.

You know how you used to say you weren't going to be like your parents about a certain thing, and then you catch yourself doing it, and you're like "aww man . . . I'm old". That happens to me quite often. In the case of homeschooling my kids it happens to me A LOT. My boys will be totally bored with a subject but I'm really into it. They want to move on, but I want to keep digging in to the subject. My parents always did this in homeschooling with me. I sure didn't want to be nerdy like that! ;-) I was totally doing that to my boys today.

The boys cut out pictures and glued them in the proper slots of their pyramid I made them. I know I'm so fancy. Don't be jealous. ;-)

We talked a lot about proper fuel for your bodies (We really talk about this every day. My poor boys are beaten over the head about eating healthy.) Kaden still thinks he should be allowed to drink energy drinks like Daddy and Kody though because "you're supposed to have energy right?"

I got these cute pics when we were having our afternoon snack of blackberry smoothies. Couldn't resist these cute faces!

2009-03-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

Fresh Salsa

We love us some fresh salsa around here. It is especially good in the summer when we can use tomatoes, onions and peppers from the garden, but during the year when we can't wait any longer we buy store bought stuff (blah) and make up a big batch of salsa to go with all the mexican food we eat.

This recipe comes after lots of experimenting and originally came from Mimi Meadows.

Fill your food processor pretty full with fresh tomatoes (romas work best because they're not as juicy - canned tomatoes even work after draining)

Throw in a jalepeno or two or three depending on how spicy you like

Throw in about a 1/2 red onion

Use scissors to cut off about a 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro

Liberally sprinkle salt and ground pepper

A couple splashes of white vinegar

A splash of lime juice

Process til desired consistency. Taste and tweak as needed. If you want a little kick throw in some tabasco or green pepper sauce.

The Christmas before last I cooked and canned the salsa for Christmas gifts. Another great way to enjoy it during the year!

This is Muy bien!

2009-03-02T17:23:00.001-08:00

Our Wonderful Day . . .

We started learning about hands and feet last week. Read books, watched videos, sang songs, tried to walk without feet, tried to write without hands, etc.

That led to Kaden wanting to learn about sign-language, so he was signing the few words he learned all that day to everyone he came across. I love how our style of learning can lead to other thing that interest my boys!

Today we read some more books and put their hand and feet pictures in their All About Me books.

I had some fun things planned like drawing a picture with their feet and getting blindfolded and touching things and trying to guess what it was. Well, the boys had a different idea. They were really into puzzles today!

We put this one together.

Will worked on this one (I kid you not!) a total of about 3 hours throughout the day!!! Before when he's tried puzzles it was too hard. He's finally into them (REALLY into them!)

We had a fun fitness video for kids from the library that Kaden and I enjoyed (Will was doing his puzzle :-) ).

We made popsicles today and played some kind of shoot-'em-up game that Kaden made up.

Today was a great example of the flexibility I have in teaching my kids. We had somewhat of a plan but were able to work around what they were interested in and considered fun. It's a lifestyle of learning! And what I love more than anything is that I got a lot of great quality and quantity of time with them as I do every day!

2009-03-02T05:43:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 3/3/2009

Outside my window...50's today. Up to 80's by Thursday! Woo-hoo!

I am thinking...I am so blessed!

I am thankful for...my mountain-moving ALMIGHTY GOD who has revealed Himself even more to me recently

From our lesson plans...Continue working on All About Me Books - finish hands and feet. Go on to digestive system and learn about health and nutrition

From the kitchen...

Monday - Venison, chicken, veggie quesadilas, steamed veggies
Tuesday - chicken stew, cornbread
Wednesday - chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, salad
Thursday - enchiladas, roasted veggies
Friday - turkey pepperoni and veggie pizza, salad
Saturday - crispy ranch chicken, steamed veggies, sweet potatoes
Sunday - leftovers

I am wearing...velvet Old Navy lounging pants, VSA t-shirt

I am creating...still working on house plans and I MUST get some scrapbook layouts done!

I am going...

Monday - nowhere
Tuesday - boys start swimming lessons
Wednesday - nowhere
Thursday - swimming lessons
Friday - nowhere
Saturday - church
Sunday - nowhere

I am reading... Created To Be His Help Meet (thanks Nicole!), Increase Your Financial IQ (thanks Dad!), a couple of pregnany nutrition books (not really learning anything new there, but it's fun!)

I am hoping...that this cold goes away quick. I want to be running by Wednesday!

I am hearing...Will playing

Around the house...not a lot on the to do list. Hoping to get some fun projects going. The boys are going to help me make them some tool belts.

One of my favorite things today...my simple life . . . what a blessing to have so much time to enjoy my hubby, kids and especially my God.

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-02-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

All About Me . . .

Thought I would display the progress on our All About Me books.

We have really been enjoying our library books and movies and the great online resources we have found directed at learning about our bodies. (BTW, I currently have 60 books checked out from the library . . . I kind of feel guilty . . . ok, I'm over it.)

For the first part of the week we have been learning about eyes, nose and mouth. Here's a great link that took us on several learning opportunities around the web.

We talked about the meaning of our boys' names and that became the first page in their book. They drew pictures to represent the meaning of their names.

We learned about healthy eyes and how they work. (Kaden had a lesson in forgiveness after Will scratched the picture of his eyes all up.) Talk about scratching your eyes out!

Ditto on the noses. Kaden's favorite things to smell - pudding, donut, guacomole (gotta love that!)

Ditto on the mouths and teeth.

Our verse is, "Use your whole body to do what is right for God. (paraphrased) Rom. 6:13

I bought little 4x6 photo albums at the dollar store and we just slipped each page in the pockets made for photos.

More to come on our books!

2009-02-24T17:19:00.000-08:00

Changes . . .

No more this

Now this

No more this

Now this

But ultimately this

We are so excited and blessed!

2009-02-23T05:58:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 2/23/2008

Outside my window...a little cool, no wind gusts at least!

I am thinking...I love getting away sometimes, but I'm always glad to be back home

I am thankful for...being able to spend so much time with my little guys . . . Will's been on my lap all morning . . . I've been kissing and hugging on him and treasuring it because it will be gone before I know it

From our lesson plans...Continue working on All About Me Books and learning about health and nutrition

From the kitchen...
Monday - Cheesy skillet enchiladas, chips and fresh salsa
Tuesday - Tuna melts, salad
Wednesday - Barbecue chicken pineapple pizza
Thursday - Chicken Stew, cornbread
Friday - hot links, crispy zucchini coins
Saturday - leftovers

I am wearing...fav buckle jeans, football jersey shirt

I am creating...rough sketch of our house plan so I can start the budget . . . so exciting!

I am going...
Monday - clean Grandma's house
Tuesday - Science Museum of OK, Kaden's PE, gym
Wednesday - nowhere
Thursday - Kaden's PE, gym
Friday - Beyond Event at LC
Saturday - church

I am reading... youversion.com, Cashflow Quadrant, Enemy of the State, whole stack of crafty books

I am hoping...that my ankle is strong enough to start speed walking this week

I am hearing...my kids playing basketball

Around the house...shirts I need to tailor for Jon, baking - apple cinnamon muffins, cooking - big batch of hot and sour soup for me to eat off of, taxes

One of my favorite things today...peaches from our orchard that I put up in the freezer last summer . . . having them in my oatmeal this morning . . . yum!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...my current inspiration

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-02-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

Television: The Greatest Educator (NOT)

The boob tube is not a god around our house, nor do we consider it one of Satan's pawns, but we have cut way back in our partaking of this entertainment for our eyes. In an attempt to teach my boys how to think on their own instead of just barking out orders all the time, I will often remind Kaden when he wants to watch TV that he doesn't learn much from those shows he likes and he would be better off creating something or reading a book. Well, as with every conversation that I have with my first-born-strong-willed-just-like-me child I, of course, am wrong. He can think of a list of things that he has learned from his favorite shows and makes it a point to set me straight.

So today when I was having a proud Mommy moment watching my two sons participating in their own creative play, and I asked where Kaden had learned about that, he says, "On Qubo". See I do learn things on TV!" Well, excuse me Mommy! I know nothing as you can tell!

This particular thing they had learned had to do with Kings and boxes going to the moon. This all makes sense once you see the pictures right?

So, as I humbly learn more and more that I know absolutely nothing and my influence on my little guys slips away through the years, I will keep prodding towards the right decisions (and not turning the TV on during the week - I don't care what lecture Kaden thinks up!). I sure hope they remember that I taught them some of the things they know. That TV might give them some so-called "learning", but it sure can't hold them, pray with them and cook them food!

2009-02-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

Emotions . . .

Emotions are the way we feel. How we express these emotions is what we talked about with Kaden and Will. I thought this was the perfect start to our week of learning "All About Me". (Plus the fact that I haven't picked up the pictures for their books yet ;-). )

We made clown faces that the boys got to pick out what emotion they wanted to portray.

Kaden chose angry.

Will chose happy.

We played a fun game that their Uncle Paul and Aunt Cristi got them for Christmas.

You pick a card from each pile. A movement, an object and a place on your body. (This game could even be homeade - my brain was going with ways I could make up this game for further learning opportunities).

Kaden is part of the YMCA Homeschool PE and they had a bowling party today.

Today went much smoother. Thank you God for the gift of days like these to make up for all those hard days!

2009-02-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

Today Was One of Those Days . . .

You know those days when you should have just sent your kids back to bed, you go to bed then get up and try to start over? (thanks Mimi for the advice) We had one of those. Was it Mommy that was cranky that made the kids cranky or visa-versa? Who knows, but Satan sure uses days like this to get you down where you hurt the most. It was just one of those days. Our main goal today was for Mommy not to scream (out loud). We made it through and that’s all that really matters. Tomorrow's a new day praise God!

The boys made their own jets. I thought they were very creative and was proud of them for thinking of this on their own.

I got some yummy Sweet Potato Orange Bread made. I change my recipes so much that I’ll just have to post instead of sending you a link.

Just 3 cups shy of whole wheat flour
4 t. baking powder
1 t. cinnamon
¼ t. nutmeg
½ c. brown sugar (not packed)
½ c. splenda
2 eggs
1 c. unsweetened apple sauce
½ c. fresh O.J.
A bit of orange rind
2 c. mashed sweet potato
Bake at 350 degrees in sprayed muffin tins or loaf pan.
It was divine! (Keep in mind that cooking with pure whole wheat flour does leave baked goods more dense.)

Also made some yummy calzones for dinner.

I just use my favorite homemade pizza crust recipe (I made a double batch to freeze half for the pizza I will make next week). Roll and cut into sections.

Top with a mixture of turkey ham, cheese, ranch dressing and veggies (slightly steamed in micro. and drained). Fold over and crimp with fork. Bake at 350.

Big hit at our house!

2009-02-16T06:27:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 2/16/2008

Outside my window...a little frost . . . hope it warms up today

I am thinking...there's so much I want to do today . . . where to start

I am thankful for...our long weekend with Jon

From our lesson plans...Kaden wants to make masks. Begin working on All About Me Books and learning about health and nutrition

From the kitchen...

Monday - calzones, salad

Tuesday - nachos, guacamole

Wednesday - Venison Kabobs

Thursday - Skillet Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables

Weekend - out of town

I am wearing...comfy sweats and a new shirt Jon got me

I am creating...lots of baking this week, scrapbook layouts, a bag for a gift

I am going...

Monday - no where

Tuesday - Kaden's PE, gym

Wednesday - no where

Thursday - Kaden's PE, gym

Weekend - out of town to visit friends in Nebraska

I am reading... youversion.com, Sacred Marriage, About to start Rich Woman and have a whole stack of workout books I've been flipping through

I am hoping...that my ankle will be better at my Dr. appointment on Thursday

I am hearing...my kids playing

Around the house...shirts I need to tailor for Jon, going to clean oven and re-attach shelf paper in kitchen, lots of organizing

One of my favorite things today...my new-to-me dryer . . . I went 3 weeks without one . . . not fun!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...Kaden's done with basketball. It was fun, but it will be nice to have our weekends back again.

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-02-12T18:50:00.000-08:00

A Time to Celebrate LOVE!

We have been making handmade valentine's to give to some of our friends that we will see tomorrow. I wanted to share my kids great paper crafting skills. (I forgot to take actual pictures of them during the process.)

I did a good job of letting my scrap-aholic craziness go and not care how they glued things on.

I was careful not to be too stingy with my ribbon or buttons that I use for scrapbooking (and that stuff can get real expensive!)

We made nearly 20 valentines in all!

Card making of any type is a great way to show some love and teach your kids special ways to reach out to people. They love the creating process. Don't think you have to have a whole bunch of supplies either. You could do cutouts from magazines, computer printouts, find random "junk" around your house - like old buttons, scarves, ties, laces, etc. that could bedazzle cards. There's no wrong way to make a card!

One thing I would recommend investing in is a cheap stamp set. We didn't do it this time, but use stamps a lot in our card making. You can teach your child to dab the stamp on the ink pad, press onto their paper, and then have a wet paper towel that they wipe across to clean the stamp. This is a fun way for them to get a little messy, but then be able to clean up their own things. Even works with my 3 year old!

Happy Valentine's Weekend!

I'm excited I get a whole date day with my man this Saturday! What do you get to do to celebrate?

2009-02-11T20:37:00.000-08:00

Getting Horsy Around Here

Thought I better share my resources since a lot of the stuff I do comes from some initial idea from a printed resource. These have all been used during our obedience study:
Konos
A Child’s Book of Character Building
A Children’s Bible
A couple of random children’s devotionals I’ve picked up at thrift stores

We started off the day reading about Gideon in the Bible and how he obeyed God. Next we watched a video on National Geographic for Kids about wild horses. Then we watched some Youtube videos about horses being trained. We compared the horse trainers to parents and the horses to children, and how the “handler” has to train the horses/children to obey. Well then we got a little horsy around here . . .

We read books both fiction and non-fiction about horses and cowboys.
I laid cards around the room (this can be done with anything on the cards age appropriate for your children). We did colors for Will and sight words for Kaden. (This game is adapted from Deleise’s adaption of Hulabaloo. They were instructed to pretend like they were horses and to gallop/run/buck/etc. to each word/color called out. (Please pay no attention to the fact that Will is wearing the same shirt as yesterday - we do change clothes occasionally around here - but only occasionally.)

The boys drew pictures of horses and cowboys
(Kaden’s)

(Will’s) I was very impressed with Will’s skills here.

This is the best picture I’ve seen him draw!

I had let the boys pick out a children’s cookbook from the library and they chose a Sesame Street cookbook. They got to chose a recipe from that to try today. They chose jelly omelets. (Ew . . . they liked them though!) (Oh, and yes, it really bothered me that omelets didn’t fit into the theme of horses, but I’m learning to let that go. Ha ha!) (Oh, they did have apples for snacks - I know what a great snack for horses! Helped my conscious about everything matching that way.)

We’ve been working like crazy on making valentine’s as well. Come back tomorrow to see those!

2009-02-10T19:50:00.000-08:00

Servants and Kings

Today we took the focus of kings and obedience to what we can learn from being a servant. Our Bible verse was Galations 5:13 By love serve one another. We read and talked about Matthew 20:25-28 where Jesus instructs us to be considered first you must first make yourself a servant.

We played "servants and kings", taking turns being the king. (We had a friend over that participated today.) The king instructed the servants to do anything from physical activity to very creative things such as "get guns and shoot the windows". (I have boys, what can I say?)

One of our favorite activities is to play music and dance around the room. Great creativity, physical training, and pure fun! (And when mommy's not behind the camera I'm right in the thick of playing with them. I have learned to enjoy playing with my kids.)

I try to sit down with each little guy and do something age appropriate with them alone. For Kaden today he wanted to do "spelling", so I had him write the word king and write some rhyming words to king as well.

Will loves books of all kinds. One of our favorites is this flap book. We do all kinds of talking about colors, shapes, counting, matching, etc. (This is one of my great garage sale finds!)

The afternoon brought lots of excitement as we watched tornado warnings all around us. Thankfully we were safe!

2009-02-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

What we can learn from Kings . . .

We have continued to talk about the history of kings and queens and what we can learn about obedience from studying their authority. This has led to great discussions about current politics and our call from God to obey those in charge of us even when we don't agree with their methods. We have read Bible stories about King David and other kings in the Bible. We have read and talked about the verses from Romans 13 when Jesus commands his disciples to be responsible citizens.

The boys stacked blocks and bricks outside to make their own castles.

They drew pictures of a king.

And we read this great book (A Caldecott winner) called Strega Nona that is a great study on obedience.

I have been amazed at what servants my boys have been while momma's on crutches right now! And we haven't even talked too much about the

servants . . . that's for tomorrow.

2009-02-09T06:31:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 2/9/2008

Outside my window...wet. We got much needed rain last night.

I am thinking...what are some things to keep me occupied today while I recoup from this ankle pain.

I am thankful for...Jon being here all weekend and this morning to help me get around.

From our lesson plans...continue in obedience. We're doing more king stuff and then going into a study of horses in relation to obedience.

From the kitchen...

Monday - barbecue at Mom and Dad's

Tuesday - Spaghetti Carbonera, salad

Wednesday - venison stroganoff, butternut squash

Thursday - breakfast casserole, homemade bread

Friday - parmesan crusted tilapia, sweet potatoes

Saturday - leftovers

Sunday - venison kabobs

I am wearing...my fav and fabulous Buckle jeans and white Gap T-shirt

I am creating...scrapbook layouts, got all organized last night so I can just knock those layouts out quick

I am going...not much of anywhere. I'm on crutches and it's my driving ankle that's hurt, so I better stay in. If all is well on Friday we have a homeschool valentine's party.

I am reading... youversion.com, Sacred Marriage, Rich Man Poor Man, 2nd in the Shiloh Chronicles

I am hoping...that my ankle will get better fast!

I am hearing...my kids watch cartoons (just because Daddy's home - no cartoons during the week when it's just mom).

Around the house...a little cluttered, but the guys are doing a good job helping me out

One of my favorite things today...books - I have a huge stack by me!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...It's Ali's birthday today! I love my sisters!

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-02-05T17:42:00.000-08:00

When you know it's all worth it . . .

We are really going to miss these girls! Kaden and Will's sweet cousins Lily and Sadie are moving to town. They have enjoyed lots of playing together. Ok, and I'm gonna miss my li'l sis Ali too! Sniff.

The 4 cousins played together most of the morning. I'm letting them get all the playing time in that they want right now. Plus it was nice having a quiet morning to get caught up on Bible, reading and blogs.

You know it's all worth it when little brother Will was upset that he had to go down the dark hall all by himself, and big brother Kaden without being asked by Mommy or Will runs to turn the light on for him. When I asked Kaden why he had done that, he said, "Cuz the Bible says to be loving to others." Whoa!!! He IS getting it. It warmed my heart so much that this strong-willed, not-such-a-servant little 5 year old boy who I work and work and pray and pray and work some more on leading his heart to the ways of the Lord gets it even once in a while. That's when I know . . . it's all worth it!

2009-02-04T18:22:00.000-08:00

Today . . .

We spent extra time lovin' on each other and helping Kaden and Will to get along. It was one of those days that we needed to put extra effort into that.

My boys gravitate towards a special thing that occupies their time each day.

This was Kaden's (It also involved talking in a foreign accent I think he picked up from his Aunt Anna that Mommy just loved to hear all day!)

This was Will's (A salad spinner) He spun about any toy, clothing item, and yes tried to spin Mom's phone just about all day.

We had a great playdate with some of our homeschool friends.

And as always we read lots of books.

2009-02-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

My Latest Creations . . .

Scrapbooking (These are actually from the last two months - I'm actually quite slow in creating pages)

From the Bi-Annual Many Meadows' camping trip. We got REALLY lost on this hike and got REALLY muddy!

From a wedding that Jon did Sword Manual for our good friends' wedding

From August

December 2007 (I know- finally got this one done!)

Our 10 year wedding anniversary (May 29th, 2008) I sure do love this guy!

One of the many pages from Jon's homecoming from Iraq (I did 5 layouts from that day!)

Our Life Group lake trip to Lake Eufaula

Kaden's summer T-ball

This is so Will

2009-02-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

Carschooling

Often our life involves running around in the car, but that doesn't mean learning is on hold. Almost every time we leave the house Kaden and Will take books. Our favorite books are their special notebooks that they like to write in, and that Kaden will sometimes do worksheets in. (Actually this is the only time he does worksheets - and at 5 years old it's only if he wants to do it - no pressure).

Another favorite are these wipe-off books that the boys spend many a minute writing, wiping off, then writing some more.

Many times their writing will lead to topics that become learning opportunities. They will want to draw or write a certain word so we talk about the sounds of letters, odd reading rules, how a dog's head looks, what color trees can be, anything and everything!

And most times we get way off subject and learn about all sorts of things. Today for instance Kaden was talking about things being made of wood and that he knew wood came from trees. That led to a discussion about other materials and where they come from.

Other times we will play "I Spy" games. Like "I spy something blue, I spy something on the right, I spy the letter B, I spy something that rhymes with luck", etc.

Kaden actually learned how to read, his rights and lefts, rhyming, syllables and many other things just by doing things in the car.

There's even a whole method of learning called carschooling that can be researched here that will give you ideas.

That's basically what we did today. We wrapped up our day with a game of hide and seek. I try to let them pick something they want to play just for fun everyday. (Even if there's a million things on my to do list - they can wait!)

2009-02-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

My Simple Woman's Daybook 2/2/2008

Outside my window...lots and lots of trees . . . love it

I am thinking...what's a special thing I can do for Jon today . . . any tips?

I am thankful for...the fact that I don't have to work - I love being with my boys so much

From our lesson plans...continue in obedience, may take a break and do a snowflake unit with some of our homeschool friends

From the kitchen...did I mention that I usually have to make entirely different food for myself. Here's for the guys:
Monday - venison burgers, skillet potatoes
Tuesday - leftovers
Wednesday - chicken spaghetti pie, salad
Thursday - breakfast casserole, homemade bread
Friday - egg salad sandwiches, homeade mac n cheese
Saturday - hot dogs, confetti veggie cakes
Sunday - leftovers
I'll be eating on stir fry and Southwest Chicken Soup

I am wearing...jogging clothes - had a good 4.5 mile run this morning!

I am creating...scrapbook layouts, still working on that hankerchief skirt - don't like it so far. I made a scarf in 30 minutes for a gift on Sunday! Fun!

I am going...
Monday - clean Nanny's house (grandma)
Tuesday - Kaden's PE, gym, maybe Parenting Q& A
Wednesday - don't know yet
Thursday - Kaden's PE, gym
Friday - Kaden's basketball practice
Saturday - Kaden's game, church
Sunday - nothing

I am reading... youversion.com, Sacred Marriage, Riley Covington Mystery

I am hoping...that my high energy will last all day

I am hearing...my kids doing chores

Around the house...very clean! I love starting the week with a clean house!

One of my favorite things today...oatmeal

Here is picture thought I am sharing...I finally got a shot of the ducks at the pond (flying away when I get any what close)

Join us every monday atPeggy's Daybook

2009-01-29T15:33:00.000-08:00

A Study in Obedience . . .

We played Simon Says obedience style saying "Mom says, Dad says, God says, a friend says, strangers say, Satan says". (Somewhat adapted from Konos) We had fun doing silly things and also real scenarios. The boys practiced their manners in saying "yes ma'am, no thankyou, yes sir", etc. They also got a chance to practice correct responses when asked to do things that weren't good choices.

We are continuing in our devotionals in learning about Adam and Eve's choices.

We are learning about authorities through the history of Kings/Queens, and made this fun craft.

We made a yummy lunch of veggie tortilla pizzas.

The boys decided to eat the leftover brocoli while waiting for them to cook. :-) Those are my boys!

Yum!

We did our reading and a wagon ride and walk outside.

I pray this obedience stuff is getting through to them!