Okay, I don't have the answer to that question. But I can tell you what I have done.
1. Relax and pray.
2. Keep your eye on what is really important. FAMILY
3. Adjust.
4. Regroup or re-evaluate.
5. Enjoy.
6. Don't run, just walk.
7. Create lemonade.
8. Watch.
We have had a hectic schedule with sports, weather, curriculum challenges, family deaths, and just general stress. I have adapted, changed and re-evaluated many times during the year. We are settling into a rhythm finally and are wrapping up some curriculum early, but paused others.
So as we move forward to spring and the home stretch for the school year, we are picking up where we left off on paused curriculum.
Hope you found some encouragement.
Mama Fry
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Another year!!!!!
Summer of Learning
As we wrap up the "Summer of Learning", we are getting ready for our new year. We do summer learning to give us a chance to take more time off during the school year. We usually wind up with more than 200 days in our pocket, and that makes it easier for life challenges and scheduled time off from school during the year.
What learning have we done for the summer? We finished up Math U See Beta, started Easy Grammar, started new cleaning habits, started learning the rules from Logic of English, read a ton of books and reviewed every subject under the sun. We also spent most of the summer chauffeuring two darling tweens to baton camp and practices. We are a twirl family and one of the girls is on a competition team.
My wonderful husband has been traveling for most of the summer, so we have not really had a summer vacation or staycation. I look forward to a little time before we start our "Fall of Learning".
Fall of Learning - Part One
We will begin our "Fall of Learning" September 9th. What are we using?
Free Spirit (7th grade)
She is having an increase in curriculum, but some of it is not at 7th grade level. She has some challenges that we are working on and are seeing great progress with age and homeschooling.
Paths of Exploration - Volume 2 (we finished Vol. 1 last year)
This is a wonderful curriculum. We are learning about Daniel Boone, Johnny Appleseed, and Lewis & Clark.
Lifepac Language Arts - Grade 5
We used the assessment tool to determine where she could use the most help or review. I am hoping that she will move quickly through this and advance to another grade this year. This curriculum will allow her to work as fast or slow as needed and she is super excited that she can set her own pace.
Lifepac Sciemce - Grade 3
This is a fun elective for her. We use Apologia Anatomy and Physiology as our main science curriculum. She loves science, so when I found a set at the thrift store I was thrilled.
Apologia Anatomy and Physiology
This is our primary science and daddy is trying to be the teacher. With his schedule, we have not had a consistent and constant schedule. We hope that changes.
Just Write - Book 2
She has difficulty with writing her thoughts and expressing herself in writing. From reading reviews and looking at the curriculum, I am excited.
Working with Words - Grade 7
She loves using "BIG" words and so I did not think putting her in the 7th grade curriculum of this would be a stretch. This is a simple and very inexpensive curriculum.
Math U See Gamma
Since we are still having difficulty with adding and subtracting, I have chosen to back her up last year and this year to prepare her for the math she will be doing in high school. Again, if she can master or pretest out of part of this curriculum during the school year, she can move quickly ahead.
Life of Fred - Dog
This is once a week math and done for the fun of it. If you are not familiar with this, please check it out. It is such fun as an add-in.
Easy Grammar - Grade 3
Same reasons we are doing Lifepac LA5.
SOS - Constitution
She loves history as much as science, so this is her elective for the fall. This is our first time to use a computer based curriculum and we are hoping she likes and excels with this.
And for the most importance section of our curriculum.
Bible Study - Various
I am using several different items because not all will take 32+ weeks. The first one is a Kay Arthur bible study called "How to Study the Bible for KIDS". I bought the books and the DVD. It looks like a fun video.
We are going to continue with the "Lily" series, Grapevine, and a few others. More on how this works later.
I will continue in Part Two with Drama Queen (5th Grade) and explain our scheduling and our additional fun extras.
As we wrap up the "Summer of Learning", we are getting ready for our new year. We do summer learning to give us a chance to take more time off during the school year. We usually wind up with more than 200 days in our pocket, and that makes it easier for life challenges and scheduled time off from school during the year.
What learning have we done for the summer? We finished up Math U See Beta, started Easy Grammar, started new cleaning habits, started learning the rules from Logic of English, read a ton of books and reviewed every subject under the sun. We also spent most of the summer chauffeuring two darling tweens to baton camp and practices. We are a twirl family and one of the girls is on a competition team.
My wonderful husband has been traveling for most of the summer, so we have not really had a summer vacation or staycation. I look forward to a little time before we start our "Fall of Learning".
Fall of Learning - Part One
We will begin our "Fall of Learning" September 9th. What are we using?
Free Spirit (7th grade)
She is having an increase in curriculum, but some of it is not at 7th grade level. She has some challenges that we are working on and are seeing great progress with age and homeschooling.
Paths of Exploration - Volume 2 (we finished Vol. 1 last year)
This is a wonderful curriculum. We are learning about Daniel Boone, Johnny Appleseed, and Lewis & Clark.
Lifepac Language Arts - Grade 5
We used the assessment tool to determine where she could use the most help or review. I am hoping that she will move quickly through this and advance to another grade this year. This curriculum will allow her to work as fast or slow as needed and she is super excited that she can set her own pace.
Lifepac Sciemce - Grade 3
This is a fun elective for her. We use Apologia Anatomy and Physiology as our main science curriculum. She loves science, so when I found a set at the thrift store I was thrilled.
Apologia Anatomy and Physiology
This is our primary science and daddy is trying to be the teacher. With his schedule, we have not had a consistent and constant schedule. We hope that changes.
Just Write - Book 2
She has difficulty with writing her thoughts and expressing herself in writing. From reading reviews and looking at the curriculum, I am excited.
Working with Words - Grade 7
She loves using "BIG" words and so I did not think putting her in the 7th grade curriculum of this would be a stretch. This is a simple and very inexpensive curriculum.
Math U See Gamma
Since we are still having difficulty with adding and subtracting, I have chosen to back her up last year and this year to prepare her for the math she will be doing in high school. Again, if she can master or pretest out of part of this curriculum during the school year, she can move quickly ahead.
Life of Fred - Dog
This is once a week math and done for the fun of it. If you are not familiar with this, please check it out. It is such fun as an add-in.
Easy Grammar - Grade 3
Same reasons we are doing Lifepac LA5.
SOS - Constitution
She loves history as much as science, so this is her elective for the fall. This is our first time to use a computer based curriculum and we are hoping she likes and excels with this.
And for the most importance section of our curriculum.
Bible Study - Various
I am using several different items because not all will take 32+ weeks. The first one is a Kay Arthur bible study called "How to Study the Bible for KIDS". I bought the books and the DVD. It looks like a fun video.
We are going to continue with the "Lily" series, Grapevine, and a few others. More on how this works later.
I will continue in Part Two with Drama Queen (5th Grade) and explain our scheduling and our additional fun extras.
Friday, July 12, 2013
What is new and happening?
A new start and lots of things to do.
Where do I begin? I have asked that question for the last 2 weeks. I finally asked the right person, GOD. I consider myself more eclectic and a little unschool, in most of what we do, for our learning. I have spent plenty of time in the last 2-1/2 years of homeschooling to learn how my children clique and learn.
Now that I have more of a sense of their learning and they are more mature in their ages and behaviors, I am ready to unleash the real homeschooling. That is a big HA HA. It is all learning; life, mistakes, activities, everything. But I ordered our curriculum and it is arriving. I will show you and give you a run down in my next blog.
See you later.
Where do I begin? I have asked that question for the last 2 weeks. I finally asked the right person, GOD. I consider myself more eclectic and a little unschool, in most of what we do, for our learning. I have spent plenty of time in the last 2-1/2 years of homeschooling to learn how my children clique and learn.
Now that I have more of a sense of their learning and they are more mature in their ages and behaviors, I am ready to unleash the real homeschooling. That is a big HA HA. It is all learning; life, mistakes, activities, everything. But I ordered our curriculum and it is arriving. I will show you and give you a run down in my next blog.
See you later.
Monday, March 18, 2013
I Have a Fever
I have a fever and it is not getting better yet. I have Springitis. We have had days with 65+ degree temperature, then highs in the 50s for the next few days.
Will we please make a change in the weather.
I need the sun, flowers, and outdoors. As much for me as the girls.
We are going to start our seedlings this week. I will try to add pictures.
Mama Fry
Will we please make a change in the weather.
I need the sun, flowers, and outdoors. As much for me as the girls.
We are going to start our seedlings this week. I will try to add pictures.
Mama Fry
Friday, February 15, 2013
What, NO Valentine's Day?
I proposed not doing Valentine's on Thursday. You would have thought that I said no more candy (we are about to get braces in the family, so not far from it).
We had some things that came up early in the week that just made it difficult time and cost wise to pull it all together. They still did Valentine's for mommy, even though I said let us do it on Saturday. You see, the weather has been yucky, mommy got a migraine (which makes me fuzzy), and we went to a specialist for my eldest daughter. I always hate going to this specialist, but this could be our next to last time.
So let's postpone Valentine's because mommy hasn't had time to get things organized. The tears started welling up. I just thought that it would be better on Saturday than a Thursday afternoon/evening.
Well, a special meal planned for hubby with a chocolate theme (thanks Paula Deen) and some crafts and cooking goodies with the girls. I am decorating the main area and have Little Women and Emma to watch with the girls. Daddy is going to make cupcakes (bought the mix for .25 at Walmart today). Got all we needed on the clearance aisles, so saved money. I have a couple of crafts and we may work on little ones (turning 10 by end of month) birthday stuff.
Hope you all were blessed with a lovely Valentine's Day.
Mama Fry
What's New?!!!!!
It has been a while since I wrote on my blog. Trying to get hubby to help me with some nuances, but he is busy helping teach and with a workload that has increased 150%.
We are still using Trail Guide to Learning Paths of Exploration. We are studying Jamestown but we are a little behind with the schedule. I plan to condense and pair down what there is for the first 3 weeks of the unit. We have been reading the books though, so I don't feel so guilty.
We have been working on everything from Math, English, Bible, Writing, Geography, etc. I am trying to prepare them for the Stanford Assessment Test (SAT). I am working on getting them caught up on what I believe I have not taught them in the last year and a half. Believe me, I do not feel very guilty about this. They just weren't getting it last year so I did not push too hard. They seem to be grasping it much better and I am using some tools that seem to be helping.
I don't have lots of wall space in the basement classroom, therefore keeping info up for them to "see" is difficult. I figured out a way to get around that. You know those project boards? I am using them as a subject board. Each one is set up with anchor charts, info posters, etc. about that subject. (Maybe I will try to load up some pictures.) I bring them out when we are ready to learn about that subject. Along with that, the girls are doing ISNs (Interactive Student Notebooks). I know this seems a lot like what is done in public school, but I am seeing such progress, I don't care. They are learning, and what makes this so different than "notebooks" and "lapbooks".
To keep up with what we are doing, I am doing it with them, but mine has a few extra notes for teaching. This has been a great year. We have not had it easy with schedules changing or extra things being thrown at us.
I am still adding, taking away, and changing things up - BEING FLEXIBLE.
Keeping God our main focus has been very helpful. I feel the girls are really showing character growth. I am trying to focus on SEEKING God's wisdom.
Praying for wisdom and guidance.
We are still using Trail Guide to Learning Paths of Exploration. We are studying Jamestown but we are a little behind with the schedule. I plan to condense and pair down what there is for the first 3 weeks of the unit. We have been reading the books though, so I don't feel so guilty.
We have been working on everything from Math, English, Bible, Writing, Geography, etc. I am trying to prepare them for the Stanford Assessment Test (SAT). I am working on getting them caught up on what I believe I have not taught them in the last year and a half. Believe me, I do not feel very guilty about this. They just weren't getting it last year so I did not push too hard. They seem to be grasping it much better and I am using some tools that seem to be helping.
I don't have lots of wall space in the basement classroom, therefore keeping info up for them to "see" is difficult. I figured out a way to get around that. You know those project boards? I am using them as a subject board. Each one is set up with anchor charts, info posters, etc. about that subject. (Maybe I will try to load up some pictures.) I bring them out when we are ready to learn about that subject. Along with that, the girls are doing ISNs (Interactive Student Notebooks). I know this seems a lot like what is done in public school, but I am seeing such progress, I don't care. They are learning, and what makes this so different than "notebooks" and "lapbooks".
To keep up with what we are doing, I am doing it with them, but mine has a few extra notes for teaching. This has been a great year. We have not had it easy with schedules changing or extra things being thrown at us.
I am still adding, taking away, and changing things up - BEING FLEXIBLE.
Keeping God our main focus has been very helpful. I feel the girls are really showing character growth. I am trying to focus on SEEKING God's wisdom.
Praying for wisdom and guidance.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
I want to wish those that read or check my blog, a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
We are a little behind on our lessons, but have enjoyed working on crafts, sewing, cooking and making things for others. We still do Bible Study every day, especially the Advent. But this crazy, frazzled and unfocused Mama wants a schedule and focus.
I will be working on that and the lessons for the coming semester over the next 10 days. Once the chaos of Christmas morn is complete, I will have the computer and books out to start working on school.
Christ is the reason we celebrate this time of year and I am glad that I have been able to keep that as the focus.
Merry Christmas
Mama Fry and Family
We are a little behind on our lessons, but have enjoyed working on crafts, sewing, cooking and making things for others. We still do Bible Study every day, especially the Advent. But this crazy, frazzled and unfocused Mama wants a schedule and focus.
I will be working on that and the lessons for the coming semester over the next 10 days. Once the chaos of Christmas morn is complete, I will have the computer and books out to start working on school.
Christ is the reason we celebrate this time of year and I am glad that I have been able to keep that as the focus.
Merry Christmas
Mama Fry and Family
Monday, November 26, 2012
Advent vs. Christmas
I am not always eloquent in referencing the Bible. So please bare with a heart who seeks, loves and praises God but does not always know how to do that in writing. I am not good at quoting scripture, but am working on that.
What is Advent? Advent is the reason there is a Christmas. The definition for advent is the waiting on the arrival of something important. As Christians we are waiting for the day we celebrate the birth of the Christ child. We celebrate the arrival he has made and the one we anticipate of His return.
What is Christmas? It is the commercialization that we, and I mean Christians too, have used to celebrate the birth of our Savior. I have been guilty of taking the CHRIST out of Christmas. As a child we did not have a lot, so here comes my children and I just want to give and give and give and give ............ I have done a disservice to them, myself, and most of all my Christ.
What is Advent? Advent is the reason there is a Christmas. The definition for advent is the waiting on the arrival of something important. As Christians we are waiting for the day we celebrate the birth of the Christ child. We celebrate the arrival he has made and the one we anticipate of His return.
What is Christmas? It is the commercialization that we, and I mean Christians too, have used to celebrate the birth of our Savior. I have been guilty of taking the CHRIST out of Christmas. As a child we did not have a lot, so here comes my children and I just want to give and give and give and give ............ I have done a disservice to them, myself, and most of all my Christ.
Without Christ, I would not have all that I have. This is a time of the year to feel blessed and nothing can buy that. I have spent the last two years exploring new ways to celebrate and enjoy this season. With homeschooling, I can do more teaching about our Christ, I can teach less commercialism, I can teach how to do and make things, and I can teach how to give rather than receive.
I am teaching the girls to make special gifts and give to others. Also, stay within a very minimum budget to buy some gifts. Most importantly to remember that we are celebrating the birth of Jesus.
As the month begins I and most of the family will be doing the following:
- Advent Bible Study at GMG http://www.goodmorninggirls.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Advent-Info-Graphic-155x300.jpg
- Spend time doing something each night as a family - games, reading books, watching movies, doing something special
- Make gifts for my family
- Do "Truth in the Tinsel" http://truthinthetinsel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/header_10K.jpg
- Help my girls make gifts for family and friends
- Make gifts for other children
- Bake and make goodies for several missions
I am also doing the 12 Days of Christmas with my family. This is much like Christmas everyday. I have small gifts that are made and bought inexpensive little gifts that will be placed in the tree starting the 14th, and on Christmas Day (Day 12), the main gifts will be given (staying within a strict budget). It was a lot of fun last year. Be intentional with this season.
Merry Christmas and God Bless.
Lanelle
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
2012-2013 School Year
This is our second year of homeschooling. Last year was the year to break public school habits and introduce routines and responsibility.
About the Students
With all that, we also ended years of ADD meds on my oldest daughter, Ry. I believe in the medication when it is truly needed, and it was needed while in public school. At home, there are times that it would be a benefit, but I am glad she is off the meds. She is happier, easier to deal with and a lot more joy to be around. Since being off the ADD meds, the Asperger's is more noticeable, but manageable. We have to work harder to stay focused but I enjoy this child more than the frustration in the teaching.
So that leaves my youngest daughter, Ash. She is creative, full of energy, a "little mommy" and overly emotional. She is also struggling at reading and spelling, which our thoughts are leaning to dyslexia. She is a natural at math, like mommy. She is interested in fashion.
About the Teachers
Now you have the facts about the students, let me tell you about the teachers.
Mommy is a former K4 teacher with a degree in Early Childhood. I can be a little over ambitious, over organized, over-whelmed, a wanna be super mom and desiring to fulfill God's plan for me to teach my children.
Daddy is a computer geek. He overcame dyslexia, and completed college with an Accounting Degree. He travels with work and until recently was away from home (except for 24-36 hour weekends) for two years. Now that he is home 90% of the time, he is involved with the homeschooling. He is assigned the task of Science Teacher and Geek Teacher (Computer).
About the Curriculum
Last year was a very eclectic creating of curriculum using this and that. This year I am using some pre-packaged curriculum, old textbooks and creating some of the rest.
Paths of Exploration - Geography, History, Reading, Narration, Writing, Grammar and Word Study
This is good for multiple grades and abilities. Set up in 6 units with 6 weeks of lessons per unit. I am enjoying this curriculum because it is written out well and detailed. I purchased the full package, so I would not have to run around looking for all the materials.
Phonics Pathways and Reading Pathways - Phonics and Reading
This curriculum is good for beginning phonics and reading with a kindergartner or for using as remedial help for a struggling child or adult. It is a little harder to follow, but you can figure it out. We are just starting but this is to help my struggling reader and speller.
Math U See - Multiple levels
I have bought the full package for Beta and Gamma, but picked up a used teacher's book for Primary and Alpha for having pre Beta and Gamma teaching info. This is in hopes of moving through it to bring us up to speed then move on. I have a child struggling with math basics and one that is good at math. I like what I have seen but we are using a new way of learning math. This creates a learning time for the program. The curriculum comes with DVDs for teaching, as well as a teacher's manual. I will keep you informed.
The World's Greatest Artists and Composers - Art and Music Appreciation
This curriculum is from Erica at Confessions of a Homeschooler. We have just begun but I like what I have so far. The books for reading that are used with the curriculum are found in most libraries or Amazon. She supplies all the materials for lapbooks and notebooks and lesson plans. I am using this over a two year time frame.
Harcourt Science (Grade 4 - 2006 edition) and Young Scientist Lab Experiments
I found these books at a curriculum sale locally and the Young Scientist Lab Experiments from the internet. Daddy is using book and internet to create lesson plans. The girls are loving what daddy is doing. I'll keep you posted.
Bible - this is a hodgepodge of various books and resources.
I have found that some of the curriculum out there is confusing to the girls, not teaching them what they need to know as tween girls and either not in-depth enough or too in-depth for them to understand. I am using 3-5 different things and I will alternate daily.
My main concern is they are Daughter's of God and tweens. So some resources are from the Lily series by Nancy Rue. She has a wonderful series of fiction books that have companion books that tie everything together. There are books about Beauty, Body, Rules, etc. With this set I am using the More to Be Beauty Pledge.
In-depth study comes from A Faith to Grow On by John MacArthur and Who is God? by Apologia.
Dance Mat Typing - Typing and Keyboard Lessons by BBC
This is a free online lesson class. I have read wonderful articles from many homeschoolers. I played with it this weekend and it was fun. The kids will love this.
Coolmath.com - math games
This is "for fun" math games to break up a day.
Well that does not include chess lessons, art lessons and baton lessons.
Full plate!!!!!!
I hope not and I hope so. Having too much free time starts the fight over TV and responsibilities. Responsibilities and home economics are other parts of homeschool. I'll save that for another blog.
About the Students
With all that, we also ended years of ADD meds on my oldest daughter, Ry. I believe in the medication when it is truly needed, and it was needed while in public school. At home, there are times that it would be a benefit, but I am glad she is off the meds. She is happier, easier to deal with and a lot more joy to be around. Since being off the ADD meds, the Asperger's is more noticeable, but manageable. We have to work harder to stay focused but I enjoy this child more than the frustration in the teaching.
So that leaves my youngest daughter, Ash. She is creative, full of energy, a "little mommy" and overly emotional. She is also struggling at reading and spelling, which our thoughts are leaning to dyslexia. She is a natural at math, like mommy. She is interested in fashion.
About the Teachers
Now you have the facts about the students, let me tell you about the teachers.
Mommy is a former K4 teacher with a degree in Early Childhood. I can be a little over ambitious, over organized, over-whelmed, a wanna be super mom and desiring to fulfill God's plan for me to teach my children.
Daddy is a computer geek. He overcame dyslexia, and completed college with an Accounting Degree. He travels with work and until recently was away from home (except for 24-36 hour weekends) for two years. Now that he is home 90% of the time, he is involved with the homeschooling. He is assigned the task of Science Teacher and Geek Teacher (Computer).
About the Curriculum
Last year was a very eclectic creating of curriculum using this and that. This year I am using some pre-packaged curriculum, old textbooks and creating some of the rest.
Paths of Exploration - Geography, History, Reading, Narration, Writing, Grammar and Word Study
This is good for multiple grades and abilities. Set up in 6 units with 6 weeks of lessons per unit. I am enjoying this curriculum because it is written out well and detailed. I purchased the full package, so I would not have to run around looking for all the materials.
Phonics Pathways and Reading Pathways - Phonics and Reading
This curriculum is good for beginning phonics and reading with a kindergartner or for using as remedial help for a struggling child or adult. It is a little harder to follow, but you can figure it out. We are just starting but this is to help my struggling reader and speller.
Math U See - Multiple levels
I have bought the full package for Beta and Gamma, but picked up a used teacher's book for Primary and Alpha for having pre Beta and Gamma teaching info. This is in hopes of moving through it to bring us up to speed then move on. I have a child struggling with math basics and one that is good at math. I like what I have seen but we are using a new way of learning math. This creates a learning time for the program. The curriculum comes with DVDs for teaching, as well as a teacher's manual. I will keep you informed.
The World's Greatest Artists and Composers - Art and Music Appreciation
This curriculum is from Erica at Confessions of a Homeschooler. We have just begun but I like what I have so far. The books for reading that are used with the curriculum are found in most libraries or Amazon. She supplies all the materials for lapbooks and notebooks and lesson plans. I am using this over a two year time frame.
Harcourt Science (Grade 4 - 2006 edition) and Young Scientist Lab Experiments
I found these books at a curriculum sale locally and the Young Scientist Lab Experiments from the internet. Daddy is using book and internet to create lesson plans. The girls are loving what daddy is doing. I'll keep you posted.
Bible - this is a hodgepodge of various books and resources.
I have found that some of the curriculum out there is confusing to the girls, not teaching them what they need to know as tween girls and either not in-depth enough or too in-depth for them to understand. I am using 3-5 different things and I will alternate daily.
My main concern is they are Daughter's of God and tweens. So some resources are from the Lily series by Nancy Rue. She has a wonderful series of fiction books that have companion books that tie everything together. There are books about Beauty, Body, Rules, etc. With this set I am using the More to Be Beauty Pledge.
In-depth study comes from A Faith to Grow On by John MacArthur and Who is God? by Apologia.
Dance Mat Typing - Typing and Keyboard Lessons by BBC
This is a free online lesson class. I have read wonderful articles from many homeschoolers. I played with it this weekend and it was fun. The kids will love this.
Coolmath.com - math games
This is "for fun" math games to break up a day.
Well that does not include chess lessons, art lessons and baton lessons.
Full plate!!!!!!
I hope not and I hope so. Having too much free time starts the fight over TV and responsibilities. Responsibilities and home economics are other parts of homeschool. I'll save that for another blog.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
UN-DO, UN-DO, Okay RE-Do
How many of us would like to have an UN-DO button for our life. I have too many to count, but know that for each UN-DO there is an "OH" moment to follow. The "OH"'s are what we learn from for our lives.
Homeschooling, mothering, homemaking, crafting, wifing (?), etc. are areas that I find may need an "UN-DO" button sometimes. Life can not give us an UN-DO button, so let us have a RE-DO. A RE-DO is a refocus, a re-evaluation, a refresh and a resume.
I have read so many blogs from many of my favorite bloggers that are having a crisis of RE-DO. So I know that I am not alone.
Homeschooling 2012-2013 has begun, but 2011-2012 does not seem closed. I believe that has to do with the unfulfilled goals (mommy's) and the papers not filed away just yet. Those unfinished tasks are weighing on my mind and creating a lack of focus.
I have chosen some wonderful curriculum for this year. We have a new classroom. We have a new teacher (daddy). We have a new start in an old place. All these should help in feeling we are ready for this year, but so much is still unsettled.
We are not moving to Texas, but staying right where we are. Husband is working for old company and not traveling as much, so we are learning to be a family again. The house has been updated and repaired. Then redecorated by undecorating and then redecorated for a new RE-DO.
Time for prayer and refocus, time for prayer and refreshing, time for prayer and re-evaluation, and time for prayer and resume. The main thing is TIME for PRAYER. I tried to do too much too fast in the last few months, but time to let God help me on this one.
Homeschooling, mothering, homemaking, crafting, wifing (?), etc. are areas that I find may need an "UN-DO" button sometimes. Life can not give us an UN-DO button, so let us have a RE-DO. A RE-DO is a refocus, a re-evaluation, a refresh and a resume.
I have read so many blogs from many of my favorite bloggers that are having a crisis of RE-DO. So I know that I am not alone.
Homeschooling 2012-2013 has begun, but 2011-2012 does not seem closed. I believe that has to do with the unfulfilled goals (mommy's) and the papers not filed away just yet. Those unfinished tasks are weighing on my mind and creating a lack of focus.
I have chosen some wonderful curriculum for this year. We have a new classroom. We have a new teacher (daddy). We have a new start in an old place. All these should help in feeling we are ready for this year, but so much is still unsettled.
We are not moving to Texas, but staying right where we are. Husband is working for old company and not traveling as much, so we are learning to be a family again. The house has been updated and repaired. Then redecorated by undecorating and then redecorated for a new RE-DO.
Time for prayer and refocus, time for prayer and refreshing, time for prayer and re-evaluation, and time for prayer and resume. The main thing is TIME for PRAYER. I tried to do too much too fast in the last few months, but time to let God help me on this one.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Not Dead, Not Focused, Not Sure
I haven't blogged in a while but still breathing, so NOT DEAD. Too many things running my mind, life and time, so NOT FOCUSED. So what am I, NOT SURE.
I am still a mom. I am still homeschooling two DDs. I am still in Alabama. I am still married. I am still relying on God. I am still strruggling with schedules. I am still struggling with too much.
I just wanted to let some of you know that I am trying to restart this blog. This was such an idea for me to share my experience with my first year of homeschooling. I just lost track and did not blog much.
Then life changes started happening. So, here is to a do-over. This is the beginning of year two, but it is much more a do-over for year one.
Then life changes started happening. So, here is to a do-over. This is the beginning of year two, but it is much more a do-over for year one.
I'll keep you informed with this do-over. Also, hubby is home now and can help me work on this blog which I really need. Not to mention, he is starting his own blog. I will bring you along for his adventure too.
Sincerely blessed,
Mama Fry
Thursday, May 24, 2012
What is my destiny?
Before you start wondering where the title came from, let us just say that this is the question I did not realize I had.
Destiny, what is it? Why do we wonder? God has a path for each of us, a destiny.
Are we following our destiny? Well, it all depends on who you are following and listening to. Has that voice in your head starting whispering yet? It has in me and I am realizing that it's voice sounds too much like my own.
If someone was to tell me that I would be a stay-at-home mom that home schooled, I would have said, "Are you crazy, God has gifted me with a wonderful mind and a pretty good work ethic. Why would I waste the opportunity to contribute to my family by doing this? "
I have been trying to follow God in what He wants of me. I have been trying to listen to God in what He wants to say to me.
I am understanding that "my destiny" is different than "His destiny". Even now as our first year of homeschooling ends, I can see progress in my children. It is not all academic, which is what I sought. I see a more loving sister relationship, 2 daughters that are gaining a true friendship, a family that is seeking God more now than at the beginning of the year, a child that is happy and go lucky without medication, and another that is trying to find her own place away from peers.
I am humbled how the Lord is working on me. I am seeking Him more and understanding that HE is control not me. HE is changing me and by that He is allowing me to be an example.
I have not been the perfect, patient and loving mother that they should have, but God is changing it.
I may not be able to pull scripture from my brain or tell a Bible story without studying it first, but I am working on that for myself and my children.
FAITH in the LORD. FAITH is what I seek. FAITH is all I have to rely on. FAITH is my destiny.
With this revelation and word from God, I am moving forward and looking forward to our second year. A lot more structure and curriculum, but not going overboard. I feel that HIS work in me is the best curriculum I can give my family.
Destiny, what is it? Why do we wonder? God has a path for each of us, a destiny.
Are we following our destiny? Well, it all depends on who you are following and listening to. Has that voice in your head starting whispering yet? It has in me and I am realizing that it's voice sounds too much like my own.
If someone was to tell me that I would be a stay-at-home mom that home schooled, I would have said, "Are you crazy, God has gifted me with a wonderful mind and a pretty good work ethic. Why would I waste the opportunity to contribute to my family by doing this? "
I have been trying to follow God in what He wants of me. I have been trying to listen to God in what He wants to say to me.
I am understanding that "my destiny" is different than "His destiny". Even now as our first year of homeschooling ends, I can see progress in my children. It is not all academic, which is what I sought. I see a more loving sister relationship, 2 daughters that are gaining a true friendship, a family that is seeking God more now than at the beginning of the year, a child that is happy and go lucky without medication, and another that is trying to find her own place away from peers.
I am humbled how the Lord is working on me. I am seeking Him more and understanding that HE is control not me. HE is changing me and by that He is allowing me to be an example.
I have not been the perfect, patient and loving mother that they should have, but God is changing it.
I may not be able to pull scripture from my brain or tell a Bible story without studying it first, but I am working on that for myself and my children.
FAITH in the LORD. FAITH is what I seek. FAITH is all I have to rely on. FAITH is my destiny.
With this revelation and word from God, I am moving forward and looking forward to our second year. A lot more structure and curriculum, but not going overboard. I feel that HIS work in me is the best curriculum I can give my family.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
The Adventure Continues
Okay, so the interior of the house is done and ready for sale. The weather, time and work hands have been an issue for CURB APPEAL. I am resorting to hiring a professional, because with our schedule, my husband's schedule and the need to get this house on the market. The Lord has reminded me it is His timing, not mine. I am just so ready to be a full-time family again. Two years with a part-time husband and father are taking its toll.
Homeschooling? I believe we are doing good, but not where I had expected us to be at this time. I have tried to stay encouraged and let GOD lead. He has been working on me the last few weeks. He wakes me up in the middle of the night to pray and exalt Him. Then he wakes me up before the alarm (which is set to give me quiet time to do a Bible Study), to have my quiet time. I have been very neglectful in this area of my life, but He has put more focus on this. I feel so much more peace with things going on and their timing.
Please pray for us as we continue with this adventure.
Homeschooling? I believe we are doing good, but not where I had expected us to be at this time. I have tried to stay encouraged and let GOD lead. He has been working on me the last few weeks. He wakes me up in the middle of the night to pray and exalt Him. Then he wakes me up before the alarm (which is set to give me quiet time to do a Bible Study), to have my quiet time. I have been very neglectful in this area of my life, but He has put more focus on this. I feel so much more peace with things going on and their timing.
Please pray for us as we continue with this adventure.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Changes and Happenings
TEXAS!!!!! My DH approached me with a possible change in late October. After prayers and negotiations, the final decision was made in mid November. We are moving to Houston. I grew up in Houston, but left 20 years ago.
Life has been crazy since. Getting the house ready for sale, homeschool and Christmas. Understand that for the last 18 months my DH has been commuting every week from Birmingham to Lafayette, LA. This will continue until around March 2012. He comes in on Friday (sometimes Saturday) and out by Sunday afternoons. So all this is going on as I am a temporary single parent.
School has lost some of its momentum, but I am trying to get back on track. As the holidays wind down, we are nearing the end of repairs, touch-ups and general prep for putting the house on the market. Hopefully in the next week we will have decluttered and packed excess and "STAGED" the house. I see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Keep us in your prayers and thoughts. Texas is set up different with homeschooling, so I am doing my due diligence now to know what to expect. I get to travel with DH the week of my birthday to Houston and I can get the feel of the changes that have happened in the last 20 years and look at prospects for housing.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! Blessings and prayers to all.
Life has been crazy since. Getting the house ready for sale, homeschool and Christmas. Understand that for the last 18 months my DH has been commuting every week from Birmingham to Lafayette, LA. This will continue until around March 2012. He comes in on Friday (sometimes Saturday) and out by Sunday afternoons. So all this is going on as I am a temporary single parent.
School has lost some of its momentum, but I am trying to get back on track. As the holidays wind down, we are nearing the end of repairs, touch-ups and general prep for putting the house on the market. Hopefully in the next week we will have decluttered and packed excess and "STAGED" the house. I see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Keep us in your prayers and thoughts. Texas is set up different with homeschooling, so I am doing my due diligence now to know what to expect. I get to travel with DH the week of my birthday to Houston and I can get the feel of the changes that have happened in the last 20 years and look at prospects for housing.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! Blessings and prayers to all.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Oh FATHER please walk with me
Feeling overwhelmed, out of control, impatient and can't put it in words.
I know in my heart and believe that the Lord will not forsake me or give me more than I can handle. Lately I am feeling pulled, tugged and in a battle that the Lord can only take care of.
Curriculum, schedule and children not wanting to cooperate are only a small part of the issue. My husband came to me a few weeks ago with a job offer he was offered, in another city and state. An opportunity that is very good financially and would keep him from traveling so much.
Let me back up in time and let you know more. Since July 2010, he has been traveling back and forth from home (Bham, AL) to a client's site in Lafayette, LA. We see him an average of 24-36 hours every week and we have had him home for 9 weeks over this time for holidays and a vacation this year. So putting us in one location together would be wonderful.
What's the problem? Well, the house. The housing market is mediocre and we still have in progress updates going on. I have little time with homeschooling and our schedule, dad is not home to help, I need another set of hands to do most of the task (yes I am the handyman in the family) and two little girls who want to play, watch TV and do very little to help around the house.
I (we) need prayers for direction and blessing in what is to be decided and things to come.
On a better note, the girls are doing good this first year of school. I am pleased but feel that we could do better in our school. Gave the girls their report cards this morning and discussed why they did not receive A's but B's and B+'s.
I am a proud mom for their effort this first part of our first year at home.
I know in my heart and believe that the Lord will not forsake me or give me more than I can handle. Lately I am feeling pulled, tugged and in a battle that the Lord can only take care of.
Curriculum, schedule and children not wanting to cooperate are only a small part of the issue. My husband came to me a few weeks ago with a job offer he was offered, in another city and state. An opportunity that is very good financially and would keep him from traveling so much.
Let me back up in time and let you know more. Since July 2010, he has been traveling back and forth from home (Bham, AL) to a client's site in Lafayette, LA. We see him an average of 24-36 hours every week and we have had him home for 9 weeks over this time for holidays and a vacation this year. So putting us in one location together would be wonderful.
What's the problem? Well, the house. The housing market is mediocre and we still have in progress updates going on. I have little time with homeschooling and our schedule, dad is not home to help, I need another set of hands to do most of the task (yes I am the handyman in the family) and two little girls who want to play, watch TV and do very little to help around the house.
I (we) need prayers for direction and blessing in what is to be decided and things to come.
On a better note, the girls are doing good this first year of school. I am pleased but feel that we could do better in our school. Gave the girls their report cards this morning and discussed why they did not receive A's but B's and B+'s.
I am a proud mom for their effort this first part of our first year at home.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Homeschooling Update
We are having a grand time. We have our moments, but I do not regret this decision. We have gone on field trips, taken classes, bonded and feel more relaxed. This was not possible when they were in public school.
These items listed above mean more to me at this moment than completing 5 subjects in one day. I am trying to find a better grammar, spelling and spanish learning program/lessons. But we are moving forward and I feel making progress. Not giant leaps but pretty good baby hops or stumble steps.
These items listed above mean more to me at this moment than completing 5 subjects in one day. I am trying to find a better grammar, spelling and spanish learning program/lessons. But we are moving forward and I feel making progress. Not giant leaps but pretty good baby hops or stumble steps.
Blog Help!!!!
I am so blog dumb that I have not been blogging because of it. I have so much to show and tell and no clue what to do. So those who are following or listening. Be patient.
I am finding some tutorials and tips on websites, but I feel even more lost when I read them. My wonderful husband, who could probably figure this all out is not here but out working so that I may be able to do this great adventure. I LOVE YOU, honey and miss you.
Unbloggily yours,
Lanelle (Mama Fry)
I am finding some tutorials and tips on websites, but I feel even more lost when I read them. My wonderful husband, who could probably figure this all out is not here but out working so that I may be able to do this great adventure. I LOVE YOU, honey and miss you.
Unbloggily yours,
Lanelle (Mama Fry)
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Routines - Part 2
I am finding that using a routine mind frame is easier to set up our "day". It gets the 3 ladies of the house moving. I admit that I am not "lazy", but when it comes to getting going, I am a PROCRASTINATOR. I like having the routine, because it creates a set thing to do then move onto the next thing.
I joined FlyLady a few weeks ago, and I love this site. I am still doing baby steps, and have not gotten very far, but I am making sure that I am consistent. This site has you work on routine, rather than clean everything. Little steps and then you see no need for the big steps as often.
Here is what our routine looks like now.
- Get up, dressed, beds made, teeth and hair brushed
- Eat breakfast
- Do household chores for that day (I split the chores into smaller segments, instead of the big segment we used to do on Saturday) Aleluia!!!! It has worked wonders.
- Morning Class Routine begins at 8:30 (The girls love that they can begin some of their work if they get to the classroom before 8:30) We have 10 things we do in the MCR and I still have 2 items to add
- Morning lessons
- Snack around 10:00
- Continue work if not finished
- Lunch around 12:00-12:30ish
- Read Alone - Quiet time for 30 minutes
NO TV till school work is complete but not until after 3:00. If they are finished they can play before 3:00.
I have introduced one - two new things a week to help in the routine and to allow me time to make better preparations and planning. As I have watched and listened to the girls over the last 5 weeks, I have had to reconsider some choices and items I did or did not want to do. Remember that this is my first year homeschooling, but they have many years of public schooling in them (Ry 5th gr and Ash 3rd gr). They are feeling underwhelmed and overwhelmed at the same time. Things are different and we need this transition and gradual increase to best fit each child, and MOMMY.
I joined FlyLady a few weeks ago, and I love this site. I am still doing baby steps, and have not gotten very far, but I am making sure that I am consistent. This site has you work on routine, rather than clean everything. Little steps and then you see no need for the big steps as often.
Here is what our routine looks like now.
- Get up, dressed, beds made, teeth and hair brushed
- Eat breakfast
- Do household chores for that day (I split the chores into smaller segments, instead of the big segment we used to do on Saturday) Aleluia!!!! It has worked wonders.
- Morning Class Routine begins at 8:30 (The girls love that they can begin some of their work if they get to the classroom before 8:30) We have 10 things we do in the MCR and I still have 2 items to add
- Morning lessons
- Snack around 10:00
- Continue work if not finished
- Lunch around 12:00-12:30ish
- Read Alone - Quiet time for 30 minutes
NO TV till school work is complete but not until after 3:00. If they are finished they can play before 3:00.
I have introduced one - two new things a week to help in the routine and to allow me time to make better preparations and planning. As I have watched and listened to the girls over the last 5 weeks, I have had to reconsider some choices and items I did or did not want to do. Remember that this is my first year homeschooling, but they have many years of public schooling in them (Ry 5th gr and Ash 3rd gr). They are feeling underwhelmed and overwhelmed at the same time. Things are different and we need this transition and gradual increase to best fit each child, and MOMMY.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Routine vs Schedule
Yes we have started school. We started July 11th. This was so that we could start slow and establish the change or difference between public schooling and home schooling.
Routine vs Schedule is what my biggest breakthrough has been these first days. Having a consistent routine and gradually adding to it has shown great progress. I have tried to create routines that the girls would follow when they were in public school, so that they knew what was expected of them and to teach them responsibility.
Homeschooling changes the schedule, but we also change the routine. We used to have to be at the bus stop before 6:50 every morning, but now they "can" sleep till 7:00. This change has created a little less grumpiness. I am still trying to establish a me routine for the morning, where I can have some exercise time and soul prepping for the day. Have not got it down yet. I am not setting a good example for being with the Lord and sometimes it shows with frustration and getting upset with them.
My goals for the next week will be to add 15-20 minutes of treadmill with working on a Bible Study I have been trying to do.
Please send your prayers!!!!
PS I am still learning how to blog, so I will try to add buttons and links to my favorites soon.
Routine vs Schedule is what my biggest breakthrough has been these first days. Having a consistent routine and gradually adding to it has shown great progress. I have tried to create routines that the girls would follow when they were in public school, so that they knew what was expected of them and to teach them responsibility.
Homeschooling changes the schedule, but we also change the routine. We used to have to be at the bus stop before 6:50 every morning, but now they "can" sleep till 7:00. This change has created a little less grumpiness. I am still trying to establish a me routine for the morning, where I can have some exercise time and soul prepping for the day. Have not got it down yet. I am not setting a good example for being with the Lord and sometimes it shows with frustration and getting upset with them.
My goals for the next week will be to add 15-20 minutes of treadmill with working on a Bible Study I have been trying to do.
Please send your prayers!!!!
PS I am still learning how to blog, so I will try to add buttons and links to my favorites soon.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
It's all Greek
Charlotte Mason, Eclectic, text-book, living books, FIAR, etc. It is all starts to sound like and feel like another language. How to choose what is best for our family and individual child. With a HF-ASD child, I am focusing on her first and then the other child. Lapbooking and notebooking look interesting. I can use this with some text-book, then do unit studies. I'll try this first then grow from there. But the choses will make your head spin.
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