tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8001707063646646652024-03-05T09:46:36.609-05:00Chatter, Clatter, and Things That MatterSilly to serious thoughts on homeschooling and life.Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.comBlogger530125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-69622579275122364662013-12-26T20:41:00.002-05:002013-12-26T20:41:38.313-05:00Review: HelloFreshWhile don't mind cooking, I don't care much for the meal planning or shopping part. We have our favorites that I rotate and i continuously keep items on hand to make things easier. I also have some picky eaters, so it is difficult to successfully introduce new meals that get a thumbs up from all. Instead we end up with a lot of leftovers and ingredients that won't be used up in future dinners. This also forces me to stay safe with those things we often enjoy.<br />
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The end result is things sometimes get a little boring at the dinner table. We also tend to go out to eat once every week or two for some variety, but that can get expensive.<br />
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If are looking for a way to liven up your dinner table without heading out to eat,<a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/" rel="nofollow"> HelloFresh</a> might be your ticket to gourmet meals at home.<br />
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HelloFresh is a weekly subscription service that makes cooking easy for everyone. Each week the HelloFresh chefs create three recipes, do the shopping for you, and send you a box of fresh, pre-measured ingredients delivered right to your door. Everything needed is included in the box. You only need to provide such items as salt, pepper, butter, and cooking oil. There are two box types available, Classic and Veggie, with options for two or four people. I received a <a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/food-boxes/detail?category=classic_box" rel="nofollow">Classic Box </a>for two for review.<br />
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Recipients of the Classic Box are able to choose three standard recipes with two alternative meals with which to switch if they don't like one of the three selections. At this time, the Veggie Box recipients are not able to switch out one the three meals with an alternative. <br />
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The recipes for the week I received the Classic Box were: Stuffed Squash with Cherry Balsamic Reduction, Apricot Glazed Turkey with Beets and Orzo, and Dill Crusted Tilapia with Sweet Potato & Cranberry Medley. <br />
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From the website:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<i>"HelloFresh works closely on recipe
development with the Michelin star restaurant, Aquavit, and has a
team of in-house chefs who graduated from the Institute of Culinary
Education and worked at restaurants including Momofuku and Eleven
Madison Park, to name a few!"
</i></div>
</blockquote>
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Deliveries are made each Wednesday. Mine arrived fairly early in the day.<br />
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Since the ingredients are fresh and perishable, packaging is very important. I was impressed with the packaging, which included a well-insulated box and ice packs. The ice packs were still frozen solid!<br />
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Three recipe cards with step-by-step instructions are included. The ingredients are placed in separate bags and clearly labeled with what recipe they belong.<br />
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Since my box arrived the day before Thanksgiving, I simply unpacked the items and placed them in the refrigerator for a few days. I didn't have any problems with the items remaining fresh until I was ready to try the recipes. <br />
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I'll be honest and admit that the recipes provided were probably not ones I would have selected from a recipe book or website. There were several items in each that wouldn't be well-received by various members of the family nor would have been something I'd normally include in my cooking (i.e. dried cranberries). Our teens were out and about with other dinner plans for most of the meals I made from the box, so I was mainly cooking just for hubby and me. However, my husband can be pickier than the kids.<br />
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The first meal I made was the Dill Crusted Tilapia.<br />
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I loved that everything was pre-measured. The above is for the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Medley that was being served as a side.<br />
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The recipe was easy to make. I personally felt there was a bit too much dill in the crust, but that would have been remedied by going lighter on the coating.<br />
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The portions were huge, more than either of use could eat. This could have easily fed our family of four with some added slices of bread and salad.<br />
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What surprised me on this meal was actually the side dish. My husband
isn't crazy about sweet potatoes or cranberries. However, the medley
was his favorite part of the dish. The combination of tastes and
textures really worked.<br />
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The next recipe I made was the Apricot Glazed Turkey. After Thanksgiving, turkey wouldn't have been my pick, but there was nothing Thankgivingy about this recipe.<br />
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This was one of those recipes that had ingredients I would have been tossing if I purchased from the grocery store, particularly the apricot jam and edamame. I would have never used up a normal size jar or package of either of these items.<br />
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My teenage son joined us for this meal, so I added a salad and garlic bread. It was plenty. <br />
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This was the least favorite of the meals, mostly because of the beet side dish. However, I had never tried beets before making this dish, so I didn't really know if I'd like them or not. I got my husband to take a taste, too. While neither of us liked them, I was happy we had the opportunity to try them in a tested recipe. My son wasn't as adventurous, but he did eat everything else.<br />
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Lastly, I made the stuffed squash. This was a recipe that I was going to switch with one of the alternates, but decided to give it a try at the last minute. I'm the only one who will happily eat squash, so I made this on a busy evening for just myself, putting the other half of the squash in the refrigerator for lunch the next day.<br />
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Surprisingly, this was my favorite of the recipes. I had it the next day for lunch and still had a ton of the beef and rice filling left over. My husband came home very hungry the next evening and wanted a very quick meal. I ended up taking some of the filling and mixing it with the remainder of the Sweet Potato & Cranberry Medley from the very first meal. It definitely got a thumbs up. The next day my daughter was looking for some lunch and I warmed up the rest of the beef and rice mixture, which she enjoyed. This recipe ended up as four servings for four adults pretty easily - and we all liked it.<br />
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I really enjoyed the opportunity to review the Classic Box from Hello Fresh. It got me cooking with ingredients that were outside my normal cooking and even encouraged my family to be a little adventurous in trying some new things with pleasant results. I particularly enjoyed using fresh herbs. I usually don't buy fresh herbs because I only need such a small amount and the rest will go to waste. However, it really made a difference in the taste. The recipes also had me trying some new techniques. For example, I've made sweet potatoes plenty of times, but never cubed and thrown in a skillet. <br />
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As much as I enjoyed trying the recipes, a weekly HelloFresh box doesn't fit into our current food budget, though I suspect that if I were to buy the ingredients on my own the price would be comparable, as shown with this <a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/versus_grocery_stores/" rel="nofollow">HelloFresh vs Grocery Store comparison chart</a>. The ingredients were all fresh and I weighed all the meats and found them to be accurate to what was listed. While I found the serving sizes to be generous and likely to feed my family of four, my family enjoys more country cooking than gourmet and I tend to cook rather frugally within their tastes. As a family, a weekly HelloFresh delivery doesn't really fit our needs. <br />
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However, I don't think homeschooling families, who are mostly single income and feeding growing bodies, should rule out HelloFresh all together. Since you can put your subscription on hold for any week, there is some flexibility. Even if you don't think you could budget for or use a box every week, I can see plenty of reasons to give HelloFresh a try as an occasional treat.<br />
<ul>
<li>HelloFresh is a great way to get your kids cooking and trying new things. The recipes are simple enough for beginners and take about only 30 minutes, but look like they take more time and effort. Your kids will feel like professional chefs and learn some great cooking skills. </li>
<li>HelloFresh will expand your dining experiences. It is a great way to try new recipes without a lot of frustration hunting down ingredients or having unused leftover ingredients. If you like the recipe, you can always make it again on your own with the recipe cards. It would be fun to order an occasional box to try new things. If you have a very large family, you can make all three meals in one evening and have a sampling of each.</li>
<li>HelloFresh is an economical alternative to going out for something different or special. When our family of four eats out, the bill is usually over $50. HelloFresh meals are priced under $10 per meal per person, likely cheaper than a comparable meal out. If you didn't want to share with your kids, couples can use the meals for a date night at home. Better yet, have your kids cook the meals for you!</li>
</ul>
You can view the current options for the next deliver of the <a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/food-boxes/detail?category=classic_box" rel="nofollow">Classic Box</a> and <a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/food-boxes/detail?category=veggie_box" rel="nofollow">Veggie Box</a> at the HelloFresh website. Selections need to be made the Wednesday prior to delivery. <a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/aboutus_delivery_areas/" rel="nofollow">Delivery areas </a>are currently available from Maine to Miami and as far west as Chicago. <br />
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Check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HelloFreshus?ref=br_tf" rel="nofollow">HelloFresh Facebook page</a> where you can get a feel for the company, the recipe options, and also be informed of occasional special offers. <br />
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The Classic Box for two is regularly $69 and the Veggie Box for two is regularly $59. <b>However, if you use referral code KVUJJT, you will get $20 off your first box. </b><br />
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<a href="http://www.hellofresh.com/" rel="nofollow">HelloFresh</a> may be just what your family needs for a little change of pace in the kitchen and at the table<b>!</b><br />
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If you would like to hear the experience of other families using HelloFresh, visit <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/hello-fresh/" rel="nofollow">Mosaic Reviews</a>.<br />
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-39373559926028622662013-12-26T16:53:00.000-05:002013-12-26T16:55:31.529-05:00Review: Udderly Smooth Hand, Foot, and Body Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every winter I constantly fight super
dry hands. In fact, when I was little, my mom used to put Vaseline
on my hands and make me wear cotton gloves at night. I hated it!
While I ditched the greasy ointment and gloves long ago, a great
lotion is a necessity for our harsh Michigan winters.</div>
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However, all lotions are not created
equally. Many lotions contain alcohol, which counteracts the
moisturizing qualities. They may have a nice fragrance, but they
don't do much to help dry skin. Others are so greasy that there is no
touching anything or opening any closed doors for a good hour after
application. There are very few lotions that seem to have the balance
of not too greasy, but effectiveness at healing dry skin.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I recently had the opportunity to see
how the <a href="http://www.udderlysmooth.com/" rel="nofollow">Udderly Smooth</a> brand of lotion fared against our harsh
winters and resulting dry skin. I had heard of the brand before and recognized
the cow pattern on the packaging, though I had never used the
product. The lotion was originally formulated under the guidance of a
pharmacist and intended for use on dairy cows, hence the quirky name.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi90kEVICqXKLX12UWVWKIM3rVXR6wKwwRlg3B8L72RhRqWBDb_1SRkOOIzqhjS5uIsBlVjdGYu2ud8jvI6zV_VUK_IK96_CDmGXyzeADZQdrWMc1qbmcL1HeE9dmevwvYIsKl59290CNU/s1600/1459810_10201628663292259_1771866972_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi90kEVICqXKLX12UWVWKIM3rVXR6wKwwRlg3B8L72RhRqWBDb_1SRkOOIzqhjS5uIsBlVjdGYu2ud8jvI6zV_VUK_IK96_CDmGXyzeADZQdrWMc1qbmcL1HeE9dmevwvYIsKl59290CNU/s400/1459810_10201628663292259_1771866972_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I had quite an assortment in my
package, which included body cream, foot cream, and hand cream. The body and foot cream were in tubs and the hand cream in two different sizes squeeze bottles. I also received some sample packets.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
With the cold weather here to stay for
the next several months, I was anxious to give the cream a try.
Before I applied it though, I gave it a sniff. It had a very
standard lotion fragrance, one of which I'm typically not fond, though
not as strong as other brands. I discovered unscented
lotions are available. If you tend to be pickier about scents, you
have options.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Udderly Smooth contains no alcohol.
When I first applied it, it felt like it was going to be too greasy.
Much to my surprise, it was quickly absorbed and left behind a
non-greasy protective coating on my hands. I was pretty happy with
the results. I didn't feel like I was slathering on the grease, but
felt like I was doing more than just putting a scent on my hands. Speaking of scent, once applied the fragrance didn't bother me at all.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
My husband has a particular expensive
lotion he likes to use to combat some of the abuse his hands take at
work. Shortly after receiving the Udderly Smooth products, I noticed
he had confiscated the tub of foot cream, but to use on his hands.
The only difference between the foot and hand cream that I could tell
was it a bit thicker and also contains shea. A week or so later, I
noticed a wound on his hand and asked what happened. Come to find
out, he had had a callous on his hand for quite some time. When he
started using Udderly Smooth, the callous started softening up. As
it softened, an unknown sliver which the callous had formed over, came to the surface. Both the sliver and callous are now gone. I thought that was pretty telling of the
effectiveness in softening and healing drying skin. Needless to say, the foot cream has been permanently confiscated by my husband.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I've been applying Udderly Smooth each night and occasionally during the day and have found it effective in fighting my dry skin this winter. I would not hesitate to purchase
Udderly Smooth lotions. I now keep the travel size in my purse and
the larger tub at my night stand.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="http://www.udderlysmooth.com/" rel="nofollow">Udderly Smooth</a> lotions are readily
available and likely at a store in your town. The Udderly Smooth
website lists stores that carry the product and answers <a href="http://www.udderlysmooth.com/faq.shtml" rel="nofollow">FAQ </a>about the products. You are also able to order directly on the website if purchasing locally isn't an option. Coupons are sometimes found on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/udderlysmoothusa/app_320200958091598" rel="nofollow">Udderly Smooth FB page</a>, so be sure to like the page for extra savings.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Wondering what others thought of this product? Check out more reviews at <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/udderly-smooth/" rel="nofollow">Mosaic Reviews</a>.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-79203335319594866452013-10-01T13:44:00.000-04:002013-10-01T13:44:49.835-04:00Review and Giveaway: Filmmaking from the First Directors<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising.</i></span>
<br />
<br />
Do you have a student who is constantly enlisting and directing friends for the next video creation to upload to his or her YouTube channel? With inexpensive cameras and the easy and accessible video features of iPhones, it seems like many are dabbling in filmmaking. However, are your kids interested in taking it a step beyond filming the family dog’s latest trick or the antics of the pet cat?<br />
<br />
One of my kids has been dabbling in creating short videos, but also has a clear interest in film production and broadcasting in general. However, there simply isn’t much available to homeschoolers for study in this area. Therefore, I was thrilled when <i><a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111&url=50">Filmmaking from the First Directors</a></i> became available earlier this year.<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111_7_1_95" target="_blank"><img alt="Filmmaking" border="0" height="250" src="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/banners/filmmaking-300x250.png" width="300" /></a></center>
<br />
<i>Filmmaking from the First Directors</i>, taught by Thomas Purifoy, Jr., is available through <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111">Compass Classroom</a> and teaches the basics of filmmaking and early film history. The course is intended for ages 13 and up and can be used as an art high school credit. Mr. Purifoy, who wrote and directed Compass Classroom’s <i>Modern Parables, Economics for Everybody, </i>and <i>Seek Social Justice</i> is upfront that he’s not an instructor nor an expert, but simply someone who has been self-taught through experience.<br />
<br />
The 15 lessons are delivered through an online portal. What this means is all of the materials for the course, which consist of recorded lectures, PDF files, film examples, and a communication area, are available through an online account. When students log into their account, they can see how far they’ve progressed in the course and also go back and review lessons. The course is self-paced, though typically will take one or two semesters depending on the student. Students can start the course at any time and are able to interact with other students also taking the course through comments on uploaded assignments. The instructor will also occasionally comment and give feedback on assignments, especially the final project for the course.<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/50774583" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></center>
<br />
Each lesson has a similar structure and includes four parts. The first part is the Big Picture and covers concepts, history, film grammar, and key elements. This portion is presented through a lecture. Next, several film examples representing the main concepts are available for viewing, along with instructor commentary on various portions of the examples. The Production section covers the nuts and bolts and the Assignment section give the details and goals for that lesson’s assignment. If students have a question or comment while watching the material, there is a message field under the viewing area to leave a note. Each lesson has some sort of hands-on flimmaking assignment, usually a film a couple of minutes long in the style of the film examples from that lesson. The final project is an 8-10 minute short film.<br />
<br />
There are no quizzes, exams, or grades in this course. The main point is to learn through taking in the information and doing the assignments for each lesson. This sets the tone for the students to take ownership of their own learning. Each lesson area is broken down into a “step”, which is assigned a point value upon completion if parent's are needing to show percent completed as part of issuing a parent grade for a student's transcript.<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111&url=52">list of lessons</a> detailing the content is available. I really like that the instructor de-emphasizes sound and has the students focus on action and image. Many of the example films have the sound removed entirely so students aren't distracted by the emotions of sound and music and can instead focus just on images. A <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111&url=51">sample lesson</a> is available for viewing.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111&url=53">required equipment</a> isn't too extensive and you may already own some or all it. Use of an iPhone isn’t recommended, but there is also no need to purchase expensive equipment. The software needed for film editing comes with most computers. It should be noted that the course does not teach students how to use the equipment or software, so if they don’t already know how to do so, this should be added on to the time needed for the course. Students are given instructions to set up a Vimeo account to upload assignments and share with others.<br />
<br />
One thing the instructor emphasizes is that this course will take a lot of time in general. The lessons don’t take a long time to go through, perhaps an hour for each, but filmmaking, even short films, can be very time consuming. Students will need to plan their film, prepare the location, and film the shots. A film of just a few minutes may require ten times that amount of footage going into the editing process. If your student doesn’t have sufficient time to steadily work on the assignments, this course may not be the best option. Filmmaking is satisfying, creative, and challenging, but definitely isn’t a rushed process.<br />
<br />
Overall, I really, really like <i>Filmmaking from the First Directors</i>. Even though I was reviewing the material for future use for my student rather than any personal interest, I found the material to be engaging and interesting. It made me want to get my camera out and start creating! Not only is the content of the course unique, but the structure is as well. I like that there isn’t a focus on quizzes and tests but rather practical application through a hands-on approach. And while there aren’t grades given and this is a self-paced course, there is still interaction between students and instructors not normally available with courses under a similar format. I think my future director is really going to enjoy this course and will learn much from it.<br />
<br />
Filmmaking from the First Directors is a bargain at $99. Be sure to also check out the other courses offered by <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111">Compass Classroom</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I was provided a copy of the above product in order to provide a fair and honest review. No other compensation. This review contains affiliate links.</i></span></div>
<br />
I am very excited to announce that one lucky reader will be winning Filmmaking from the First Directors! See below on how to enter.<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fd61a19/" id="rc-fd61a19" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-83682965820590719112013-09-25T23:22:00.003-04:002013-09-25T23:22:50.075-04:00Review and Giveaway! Grace Unplugged and Own It<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44063">
<b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44075"> </b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising.</i></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44063">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44063">
I haven't had the chance to read fiction much lately, but the story line of <i>Grace Unplugged</i> by Melody Carlson caught my attention.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-apwNu12nKxHd_sm8TpqpA93xb7GF0Hh9iYCyXPO4YI3iBGfvh4_7nLYayAC29vgkmPWxdEfH9oHVBYOZxnfAEpLjd5_bXJVyiSZoWIEYTghk4XYaGJFpXIGhcqGojwWBzVr3KEncPAM/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-apwNu12nKxHd_sm8TpqpA93xb7GF0Hh9iYCyXPO4YI3iBGfvh4_7nLYayAC29vgkmPWxdEfH9oHVBYOZxnfAEpLjd5_bXJVyiSZoWIEYTghk4XYaGJFpXIGhcqGojwWBzVr3KEncPAM/s1600/download.png" /></a></div>
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44063">
<b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44075">About Grace Unplugged the Novel</b></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44076">
Grace
Trey is an 18 year old singer as passionate about her Christian faith
as she is her phenomenal, God-given musical talent. Both traits come
from her father, one hit wonder Johnny Trey who found Jesus after losing
his chart success two decades ago. </div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44078">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44062">
When
Grace encounters her own music break of a lifetime, the sudden dive
into the "real world" puts her deeper beliefs to the test. Pop
superstardom is just within reach but appears to require some spiritual
compromise. Will Grace reject her faith, or will she own it? </div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44079">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44061">
<i id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44080">Grace Unplugged</i> is based on the motion picture of the same name starring AJ Michalka (<i>Super 8</i>) and Kevin Pollak (<i>A Few Good Men</i>) with performances by award-winning artists Chris Tomlin and Jamie Grace. </div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44088">
<b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44089">About the Grace Unplugged Author</b></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44090">
Melody
Carlson has sold more than five million books. A professional writer
for twenty years, she recently received the Romantic Times Career
Achievement Award. Melody has two grown sons and lives with her husband
in the Pacific Northwest. </div>
</blockquote>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44084">
My own daughter was very interested in the entertainment industry at one time. Knowing the culture surrounding such a career, her dreams of Broadway or the big screen always made me a little nervous. Though she has now redirected her career goals, the fact is, no matter what our kids will be doing in the "real world", their faith will be put to the test.</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44084">
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44084">
Though an entertaining and thought-provoking story for all ages, <i>Grace Unplugged</i> would be a great novel for a teen girls. Some of the themes (drinking by the main character, for example) may not be desirable for younger kids. I hope to be able to see the movie, releasing October 4th. See the trailer below.<br />
</div>
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="236" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/k9HLF2K9pFM" width="420"></iframe></center>
<br />
The novel <i>Grace Unplugged</i>, released early this month, is 304 pages and $15.99.<br />
<br />
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44084">
In the <i>Grace Unplugged</i>, Gracie Trey is introduced to an actual non-fiction book, <i>Own It</i> by Michael and Hayley DiMarco. The book is described as "life-changing".</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44084">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfFgtIfOG8ciJHVZU6DdUUxJkyZE3JcipgR0hfPJms3HbBnUNXDY2OTyI7lz9bkCfyP2qwgymPQMCwGCn0lZuBUJYM3TfGfbace0SQu5Uk0Y46YroClGNTyxbwICA5huSnImIyg5GN-U/s1600/ownit.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfFgtIfOG8ciJHVZU6DdUUxJkyZE3JcipgR0hfPJms3HbBnUNXDY2OTyI7lz9bkCfyP2qwgymPQMCwGCn0lZuBUJYM3TfGfbace0SQu5Uk0Y46YroClGNTyxbwICA5huSnImIyg5GN-U/s1600/ownit.png" /></a></div>
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44059">
<b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44085">About Own It, Discover Your Faith in God</b></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44058">
The movie <span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44086" style="font-style: italic;">Grace Unplugged </span>tells
the story of Grace Trey, an ideal Christian teenager who is also a
phenomenal singer. But when she is pushed into the “real world” at the
tender age of eighteen after getting the music break of a lifetime, her
faith is put to the test.</div>
</blockquote>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44054">
<div class="yiv1345125409page" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44053" title="Page 1">
<div class="yiv1345125409section" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44052">
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<div class="yiv1345125409column" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44050">
<blockquote>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44057">
<span style="font-style: italic;">Own It </span>mirrors
the film by asking what it means to really “own” your personal faith
rather than just automatically following in the footsteps of parents,
friends, or other influencers. Best-selling authors Hayley and Michael
DiMarco help readers understand what to do when faith meets real world
challenges.</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44049">
Without solid
beliefs, poor choices are likely to follow. You must take the time to
really know who you are, who you are becoming, and who God made you to
be. It's your personal faith . . . own it! </div>
</blockquote>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44094">
<b id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44093">About the Own It Authors</b></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44095">
<span style="font-weight: 700;">Hayley DiMarco </span>is the best-selling author of more than thirty books including <span style="font-style: italic;">Dateable, Marriable, Mean Girls, </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">The Woman of Mystery. </span>She
has been a featured speaker at Women of Faith, Precept National Women's
Conference, and MOPS Intl. among others and has consulted on the
creation and enhancement of some of the largest stadium events for teens
and young women in North America.</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44101">
<div class="yiv1345125409page" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44100" title="Page 1">
<div class="yiv1345125409section" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44099">
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<div class="yiv1345125409column" id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44097">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44096">
<span style="font-weight: 700;">Michael DiMarco </span>is
a skillled communicator and teacher who has authored more than a dozen
bestselling books including the 2010 Christian Bookof the Year for
Youth, <span style="font-style: italic;">B4UD8 </span>(Before You Date). He and his wife, author Hayley DiMarco, have one daughter and live in Nashville, Tennessee. </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1380080091712_44102">
This would have been a great book for me to read as an older teen heading off to college, where my faith met many challenges. With teens in the house, much of what this book discusses has been recent conversation in our home and very relevant. I don't want my kids blindly following the faith with which they've grown up. I want them to make it their own, fully grasping and living it out. This is a title I will be having both of my teens read in the very near future.<br />
<br />
<i>Own It</i> is 192 pages and available for $14.99.<br />
<br /></div>
One lucky reader will have the pleasure of winning a copy of both titles! Please see below for details on how to enter.<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fd61a18/" id="rc-fd61a18" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising.</i></span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-68003280713227640132013-09-23T14:24:00.000-04:002013-09-23T14:24:38.959-04:00Review and Giveaway! Keyboard Classroom<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I was given a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. </i> </div>
<br />
The other day I was watching my son whip out a paragraph and his laptop. I am so grateful that he's become a proficient typist. Though he hasn't been officially diagnosed as dysgraphic, one look at his writing and a diagnosis isn't really necessary. This is a kid who is much better off typing and school work has been much easier since he's mastered this school.<br />
<br />
We struggled at first in finding the right program, but two years ago I discovered Keyboard Classroom. Below is my review at that time. <br />
<br />
I also have a bonus for my readers! As a celebration of the successful typist I now have, I would also like to host a giveaway. One lucky reader will win a Dual User License, a $75 value. <br />
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<br />
I
remember when I learned to type in high school, hunched over a
typewriter with an instructor chanting keystrokes. It wasn’t exactly
thrilling, but I now say it was the most useful skill I learned in high
school.<br />
<br />
Hardly anyone waits until high school to learn
typing any more. It is too much of a necessary skill now to wait that
long. My daughter learned at age 8 with a popular software program. I
intended to use the same program for my son, but it just didn’t take off
with him. After another software failure, I switched over to the old
flip book style that reminded me more of how I learned to type.
Unfortunately, it wasn't as successful as I had hoped. I especially
wanted him to learn to type early because writing is difficult and
tiring for him. However, while he can now type at 12, he just isn't as
functional as I think he needs to be at this point.<br />
<br />
While
all of the programs we tried were somewhat successful, none were the
best program for him. The software programs seemed to either have too
many distracting games, or weren’t systematic enough. The flip-books
were very systematic, but didn’t have any motivation tools and also
required constant supervision from me. The end result was that my son
could type, just not with the needed speed to get maximum benefit. He
was pretty good about knowing the location of the keys, but his hands
still floated around the keyboard, creating errors. As a 7th grader with
increasing writing requirements, he really needs to be a more
proficient typist.<br />
<br />
When I was presented with the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.keyboardclassroom.com/page/show/home">Keyboard Classroom</a>,
I was exited to see how it might work in our homeschool. Keyboard
Classroom, which was developed over 20 years of research, is based on a
timed fluency approach. The program takes a systematic approach,
building muscle memory toward mastery. <br />
<br />
There are five
fluency levels: Finger Trainer, Typing Words, Home Stretch, Typing
Sentences, and Capital Stretch. Each fluency is based on a 1-minute time
limit. With passing levels closely monitored by the program and
gradually increasing difficulty of skill levels, mastery is more easily
achieved and ensured.<br />
<br />
As the student progresses through
the program, tokens are earned to play games. The users also increase
in rank (Cadet – General) as they move up in levels, which gives the
student a big picture of their progress.<br />
A unique feature of this program is the finger guides that are affixed to your keyboard.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oaYcFslbrbs/Tize0lPATWI/AAAAAAAABfY/NJWNBMreZeY/s1600-h/keyboard_1%25255B3%25255D.png"><img alt="keyboard_1" border="0" height="177" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-N8DtXWUXmuM/Tize1LTlUiI/AAAAAAAABfc/dPTW8Rtp7LI/keyboard_1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="keyboard_1" width="266" /></a><br />
They
are attached with Velcro, allowing you to remove them when desired. I
was anxious to give the guides a try, since wandering hands were slowing
down my son’s progress.<br />
<br />
The video below explains more about the program and allows you to see it in action.<br />
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<br />
We
all know that something can look great, until we try to implement it
into our homeschool. I’m happy to say that we’ve had a lot of success
Keyboard Classroom. It seems to have all the features we need that other
programs we tried didn’t.<br />
<br />
For starters, the finger
guides immediately solved my son’s problem of his hands floating around
keyboard and improved his accuracy and timing by not having to
constantly look down at his hands.<br />
<br />
While there are fun
games in the program, the games are being used as reward and
reinforcement, not the method of instruction. We’ve tried too many
programs where either a focus on games was too distracting or the
program was so dry by not having any games that it wasn’t motivating.
Keyboard Classroom seems to hit the right balance of having students
learn through systematic repetition, while earning tokens to play games.<br />
<br />
For
my distractible son, the 1-minute fluency exercises were perfect. The
short exercises gave immediate feedback and clear goals (master 6 times
before moving to the next level). The ranking system helped him see his
overall progress so far, which is motivation to keep continuing.
Earning tokens to play the games was also motivating, without the games
becoming the primary focus.<br />
<br />
There are a couple of
things which you need to be made of aware before purchasing. The
software can be purchased with a license of 1, 2, 3, 5, or 25. So, if
you have more than one student needing to learn to type <i>at the same time</i>,
make sure you buy accordingly. However, if you want to use the program
for one student, then save the software to use with another child
later, that is possible with licensing for just one. Just be aware that
once you remove and add a username, that all work for the previous user
will be lost. You should also be aware that in order to play the games,
an internet connection is needed. The basic program will still run
without internet, though.<br />
<br />
Keyboard Classroom was
designed with the student with learning differences in mind, but the
methods used would be a benefit to any child learning to type. I’ve had
my son practice his typing for 15-minutes a day and have been pleased
with the results. While he has learned to type some over the course of
everything we've tried previously, I think Keyboard Classroom has the
repetition, independence, and motivation to finally get him where he
really needs to be. It is definitely a program that we’ll continue to
use.<br />
<br />
Keyboard Classroom sells for $39.95 for a single license. Please visit the <a href="http://www.keyboardclassroom.com/page/show/home">Keyboard Classroom website </a>to learn more about the software or to make a purchase.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I was given a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-59256796979718534392013-09-05T14:19:00.002-04:002013-09-05T14:19:38.259-04:00Review: Homeschool Programming's TeenCoder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
One of the things people often ask when they find out I’m homeschooling high schoolers is how I am able to teach them the all of the various subjects at their level. My answer is usually a simple – I don’t. At least, not always. While I’d like to believe I’ve learned enough over the years that I could satisfactorily teach them just about any subject, I really am aiming higher for our homeschool. I want them to learn from experts, or at the very least, discover how to seek knowledge and learn independently. Even so, while I am not an expert across all subjects, I do have an education and can help them in many areas. I guide, explain, teach, oversee and pretty much supplement whatever resources we are using in most subjects.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, my academic strengths match my oldest daughter’s academic strengths for the most part, though I’ve shared in the past my clueless subject is Latin. In this case, I just have to completely outsource. Understandably, I just can’t wing a foreign language where I have zero experience. I’m ok with that. We all have our deficiencies. However, my son has discovered a new deficiency of mine – computer programming. I’m going to date myself a bit here, but when I was in junior high, my school started offering the latest and greatest in computer courses. It was a big thrill to learn how to scroll my name across the black screen in bright, green letters. No cool graphics, no Windows, not even a mouse to operate. And that is pretty much the extent of my computer programming experience.<br />
<br />
Computer programming is clearly something I need to completely outsource if my son wants to learn it properly. I need a program directed to the student with clear instructions. The content needs to be of enough substance to justify a solid high school credit, but not something designed for professional adults or overly technical. My student needs to be able to complete it independently, but it also needds sufficient support materials clear enough for a teacher who really knew nothing about the subject. Hands-on projects would be ideal, not only for the subject, but for my son’s learning style. Speaking of learning styles, video instruction would be awesome as well. It sounds like a bit of a tall order, doesn’t it? It was, yet a program with all of the above fell into my lap.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RC_wr4hkQoM/UijEqIaFiWI/AAAAAAAACPw/ZNEJbk932sE/s1600-h/HomeschoolProgramming5.png"><img alt="Homeschool Programming" border="0" height="176" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nHxWTdGoQds/UijEqk4X3bI/AAAAAAAACP4/QlEnSpMQr8I/HomeschoolProgramming_thumb3.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Homeschool Programming" width="417" /></a> <br />
<br />
I recently had the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/">Homeschool Programming’s</a> <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_cs_series.php"><i>TeenCoder C#</i></a> curriculum. I had heard of it before, but really didn’t give it much thought as we didn’t have a need for such curriculum at the time. However, a course in computer programming was something I really thought would be beneficial for my son’s high school transcript given his interest, and he's now entering 9th grade.<br />
<br />
<i>TeenCoder C# </i>is a high school curriculum using Microsoft’s free Visual C# program. It is broken down into two semester programs: <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_windows.php"><i>Windows Programming</i></a> and <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/teencoder/teencoder_games.php"><i>Game Programming</i></a>. <i></i>You can purchase them together for one full high school credit or as individual semester courses. <i>Windows Programming</i> is a prerequisite to <i>Game Programming. </i>I received a digital version of all the materials for reviewing purposes, but those ordering would receive a perfect-bound 8.5” x 11” student book and a course CD. I also was able to view the supplemental <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/demo_videos.php">instructional videos</a> for each course, which would be received on a DVD if purchased.<br />
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<i>Windows Programming</i> is presented in 17 chapters, with each chapter having three to four lessons each. Each chapter also has a hands-on activity. The average weekly time required is about 3-4 hours. The student text is written directly to the student; my son (14) said the instructions were very clear and easy to follow. Check out the <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/TeenCoder/TC_WP_StudentLesson.pdf">Sample Student Lesson</a> to get a feel for the presentation. The activities start pretty basic and progress in difficulty throughout the program. By the second chapter they are writing and running their own C# programs. In the last chapter, students create a chess game. For a look at the material covered through the course, see the <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/TeenCoder/TC_WP_StudentTOC.pdf">TeenCoder Windows Programming TOC</a>. Getting started was initially a bit frustrating, but I think that was mostly because I had a digital version of the text and downloading the required Visual #C program wasn’t as straight-forward as I would have liked. Everything was easy to follow after the initial process. There are also instructions on the website to help with the download process.<br />
<br />
While everything is geared directly to the student, the teacher (inept or not) isn’t left hanging. Support resources include a solution guide with short chapter summaries, explanations of student activities, tests and answers, and help files. View the <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/TeenCoder/TC_WP_Overview.pdf">Solutions Overview</a> and <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/TeenCoder/TC_WP_SolutionSample.pdf">Sample Activity Solution</a> to get a feel for the structure of the teacher materials. It is assumed that you, as the parent, do not know how to program. This was a must for me! Homeschool Programming also emphasizes that they are available for questions for the lifetime of the course.<br />
<br />
If you have an audio visual learner as I do, instructional videos are available as an optional resource. The student textbook is required to complete the course, but the instructional videos are reinforcement of what is covered in the text. I had my son watch them first so he knew what to expect, then I had him read the chapter. Sample instructional videos are available on the Homeschool Programming website for the various programs offered, including a <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/videos/instructional/TCGP/C9L2.htm">Game Coder Sample Instructional Video</a>, which is part of the second half of the <i>TeenCoder C#</i> series.<br />
<br />
The second half, <i>Game Programming</i>, is structured identically to <i>Windows Programming</i>. Students learn a game-creation framework for Windows and X Box 360 using Microsoft’s free XNA Game Studio. We didn’t get to this portion of the program because <i>Windows Programming</i> needs to be completed first, but trust me when I tell you my son is looking forward to going through the material. In the final project, students create a bumper car game. For the complete content covered, see the <i><a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/samples/TeenCoder/TC_GP_StudentTOC.pdf">TeenCoder Game Programming TOC</a></i>.<br />
<br />
Both my son and I had a great overall impression of <i>TeenCoder C#.</i> My son was able to work through the material completely on his own. He said the manual was very clear and well-written. So far, I haven’t even needed to use the teacher helps, though I did look them over and found them simple enough.Visual C# is easy to use and is drag-and-drop. <i>TeenCoder C#</i> gets very high marks from this family for ease of use!<br />
<br />
My son really appreciated the instructional videos. In fact, I think he really wished they were a larger part of the program as he really got a lot out of seeing the activity instructions rather than reading about them. I highly recommend you add them to your package as they are well worth it.<br />
<br />
If you are looking to include computer programming in your homeschool learning, I highly recommend you check out<a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/"> Homeschool Programming</a>. They have a variety of resources, including the <i>KidCoder</i> series for younger students. <i>TeenCoder C#</i> can be purchased as two semester courses or as one-year package. Either <i>Windows Programming </i>or <i>Game Programming </i>is $75 for the course only or $90 for the course and videos. If you start with the course only and decide later to purchase the videos, they are available for $20. A nice discount is provided if you purchase both semesters at the same time. Package pricing is $130 for courses only, $155 for courses and videos, and $30 for the videos only. Visit the <a href="http://www.homeschoolprogramming.com/index.php">Homeschool Programming website</a> to learn more or to purchase.<br />
<br />
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To read more reviews on <i>TeenCoder</i> and other products from Homeschool Programming, visit <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/homeschool-programming/">Mosaic Reviews</a>.</div>
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-68689062069602260202013-08-14T17:14:00.001-04:002013-08-14T17:47:45.141-04:00Review: Typecrush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Typecrush, available at <a href="http://www.typecrush.com/">www.typecrush.com</a>, is sure to appeal to word lovers. When I was thinking about how to describe this game, my first thought was it is similar to Hangman, but more colorful and perhaps more challenging. Then I thought perhaps it even had elements Scrabble or Wheel of Fortune mixed in. In the end, Typecrush really is what you make of it. While it has some play suggestions and one simple rule, this game is really about connection and communication.<br />
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Typecrush is based on letter frequency analysis. There are 98, color-coded, 2" diameter circle playing pieces, each with a letter on one side. Each color represents a level of letter frequency. For example, the most frequently used letters - E, T, A, O, and N - are blue. Two 3 1/2" x 5 1/4" cards with the colors and corresponding letters are provided for players to reference.<br />
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I always get frustrated with complicated rules and appreciated the simplicity of the How to Play instructions.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1) Spell a word. Make sure no one sees!<br />
2) Flip the circles to hide your word.<br />
3) Use the letter frequency chart and solve.</blockquote>
The single rule of the game is that whoever solves the word first get to choose the next word.<br />
<br />
Typecrush is intended for ages 7 and up; the difficultly is dependent upon the complexity of the word and how you play. The first time my son and I tried the game, we played it as described in the guidelines. Because my son is a struggling speller, I choose a fairly simply word to start. We eventually modified it by flipping over correctly guessed letters as we went along. This allowed him to build upon a known letter rather than try numerous letter combinations in his head, which greatly reduced his guessing and increased his confidence. Then it was my turn. It was much more difficult than one might think! I could see that some changes were necessary in order for this to be fun.<br />
<br />
A suggestion given is to choose words from a certain category, e.g. animals or states. You could easily tie the categories with topics your students are currently studying or with vocabulary and/or spelling words. Since we are still on summer break here, we just used fun and random words. (Star Wars theme, anyone?) <br />
<br />
One way my son liked to play was as a traditional Hangman style. The color-coded pieces actually made it easier than regular Hangman, but he liked that each color narrowed down his choices. While doing it this way may seem too easy for some, it helped him with letter and word analysis, which should be helpful with spelling skills. For example, if the first letter is B and the next one is a purple letter (R, I, S, H, D), some thinking it through will reveal that R or I really are the only choices. It is a good way to slow down kids who tend to spelled visually or by whole word, rather than break it down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjme-HGar6CnlWKGodFjiMck753UR9Rg3lRAljvTj1bEIhFHrxfDQ354GZwqQlQMZwERNzmvicOwwwnPr7fdtas_TULqwYAwAm7WURMTvrWi5iz0PCApmhjPaSY35ByOv6pDogpSxJejUE/s1600/IMG_0380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjme-HGar6CnlWKGodFjiMck753UR9Rg3lRAljvTj1bEIhFHrxfDQ354GZwqQlQMZwERNzmvicOwwwnPr7fdtas_TULqwYAwAm7WURMTvrWi5iz0PCApmhjPaSY35ByOv6pDogpSxJejUE/s400/IMG_0380.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you guess this Star Wars word?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The game pieces could also be used to build words Scrabble style, perhaps taking turns creating words off of existing solved ones. Or, if you are up for a real challenge, have multiple-word puzzles. How you play is really up to you, since the focus is not about playing the game "right", but interacting with words and each other. <br />
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Worth noting is that Typecrush is handcrafted in the USA and made from 100% recycled material. While the pieces are made of cardboard, they have a nice feel and weight to them. The canister is small enough to throw into a bag for some easily transportable word fun.<br />
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Word-lovers will find Typecrush an interesting spin on some old favorites. and teachers and parents will appreciate it as an adaptable learning tool. Typecrush can be purchased at <a href="http://www.typecrush.com/">www.typecrush.com</a> for $25. Each order comes with free shipping and a money-back guarantee.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Read more reviews on Typecrush at <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/typecrush/">Mosaic Reviews</a>! </div>
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<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-25131231680717186202013-06-30T17:42:00.002-04:002013-06-30T17:42:53.069-04:00Compass Classroom: A Great Line of Products<center>
<a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111_4_1_83" target="_blank"><img alt="Compass Classroom" border="0" height="250" src="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/banners/compass-classroom-300x250.jpg" width="300" /></a></center>
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<br />
Some of you may have noticed me sharing product information and promotion info from <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111">Compass Classroom</a>. I was first introduced to this company when I reviewed <a href="http://www.compassclassroom.com/visual-latin/overview/"><i><b>Visual Latin </b></i></a>a number of years ago, which you can read <a href="http://chatterandclatter.blogspot.com/2011/10/review-visual-latin.html">here</a>. Since that review, numerous other products to the Compass Classroom line. As an affiliate, I will have the opportunity to share them from time to time and host giveaways, as I did with <a href="http://chatterandclatter.blogspot.com/2013/04/review-and-giveaway-dave-raymonds.html"><i><b>Dave Raymond's American History </b></i></a>course recently. I'm very excited to bring my thoughts on <b><i>Filmmaking from the First Directors</i></b> next.<br />
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<center>
<a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111_7_1_92" target="_blank"><img alt="Filmmaking" border="0" height="125" src="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/banners/filmmaking-125.gif" width="125" /></a></center>
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My oldest is taking a broadcasting class at our local university as a dual enrolled student. I know she is going to love the Filmmaking course to add to her studies.<br />
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In addition to the above mentioned course, Compass Classroom also offered Economics, Greek, Bible Study, and Music courses. Courses are available in a variety of formats, e.g. DVD, download, and online portals. I was excited to see they've also added some live online classes for the fall. Regardless of the format, each course is super simply to use and makes it easy on Mom!<br />
<br />
As you plan our your homeschool's studies for the coming school year, check out what <a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111">Compass Classroom </a>has to offer - and check back often, as they keep adding to an already great product line.<br />
<br />
You can also follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CompassClassroom?fref=ts">Facebook </a>and or on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/VisualLatin">@VisualLatin</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/EconThinking">@EconThinking</a>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in exchange for an honest
review. A positive review is not guaranteed. All opinions are my own. I
am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising. Affiliate links included above.</i> </span><br />
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-57894928685972633162013-06-27T11:35:00.002-04:002013-06-27T11:48:32.599-04:00Review: The Classical Historian<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOeDpRnLfZgr8DVi9SS8CWFAZe8xLAgJCJsDzLr4wljv9aoFNiZEY9PBL-yUFvqpH5k0jVX7A1qmDC7MQTdFgZX5YF1pXymLIZYfwXrQjjFpbzeivkmsnIpUdY3bXrWvPjG6452yAm6ZY/s491/Disclosure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOeDpRnLfZgr8DVi9SS8CWFAZe8xLAgJCJsDzLr4wljv9aoFNiZEY9PBL-yUFvqpH5k0jVX7A1qmDC7MQTdFgZX5YF1pXymLIZYfwXrQjjFpbzeivkmsnIpUdY3bXrWvPjG6452yAm6ZY/s320/Disclosure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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During my junior year of high school I was required to take World History. It is by far the most boring class I can remember, and my grades certainly reflected my lack of enthusiasm. It was guided by the expertise of my gym teacher, if that tells you anything. Her idea of teaching was to stand in front of the room and drone on while we students just soaked it all in. Then come test time, we were to squeeze it all out onto the paper. It is the only class where I remember falling asleep. My memory of this occasion is so vivid because my forehead actually hit the desk and woke me up. True story. :)<br />
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Too bad my World History teacher hadn’t reviewed some of the materials from <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/index.html">The Classical Historian</a>. Perhaps studying World History would have been a bit more engaging.<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EYqU0tl2yts/UcvG0RxJuWI/AAAAAAAACNE/kCi0Di8nryc/s1600-h/Capture%25255B3%25255D.png"><img alt="Capture" border="0" height="78" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VEASQtxMCCw/UcvG061WwSI/AAAAAAAACNM/FsNY7rE7pjw/Capture_thumb%25255B1%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Capture" width="400" /></a></center>
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The Classical Historian’s mission statement is:<br />
<blockquote>
<i>Our mission is to help teachers provide students the skills of the historian, challenge students to research and analyze various perspectives, and respectfully and honestly guide students in thoughtful analysis, discussion, and interpretation of the past. </i><br />
<i>The Classical Historian is inspired by the best that is offered in the Great Tradition of Western Education: honesty, virtue, patience, and logical analysis of evidence and conclusions</i>. </blockquote>
The Classical Historian complete history curriculum teaches:<br />
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1. The Tools of the Historian (Historical Analysis)<br />
2. History Content<br />
3. The Socratic Discussion<br />
4. Analytical Writing<br />
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I received several Ancient History products, intended for grades 6-8, from The Classical Historian to review. They include:<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/ancient-history-go-fish.html"><i>Ancient History Go Fish Game</i></a> $11.95<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/classical-historian-dvd-program.html"><i>Teaching the Socratic Discussion DVD Curriculum</i></a> $79.99<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/take-a-stand-ancient-civilizations-students-edition.html"><i>Take a Stand! Ancient Civilization’s Student’s Edition</i></a> $18.85<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/32-week-ancient.html"><i>Ancient Civilizations Curriculum Guide</i></a> $24.99<br />
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The above items can be purchased individually or in discounted bundle packages.<br />
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<i><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/classical-historian-dvd-program.html">Teaching the Socratic Discussion DVD Curriculum</a> </i>includes three DVDs and a 77-page, spiral-bound book. Two of the discs are of John De Gree, the author of the program, speaking to an audience about his background and philosophy of education, along with the goals of the program. DVD 1 is about a 20- minute abbreviated version of another longer (approximately 1-hour) DVD titled “Extended Introduction”. DVD 2, titled “Tools of the Historian” shows Mr. De Gree teaching two students the lessons in the included book. These lessons run anywhere from 6-15 minutes and are intended for both the student and parent to watch.<br />
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From the website:<br />
<blockquote>
<i>After this DVD course, the student will know how to distinguish between fact and opinion, make good historical judgment, analyze primary or secondary sources, use quotes effectively in argumentation, how to paraphrase historical text, how to analyze and answer interpretive questions in history, how to conduct research, how to participate in a Socratic Discussion in History, and how to write analytical essays including: Writing an Outline, Writing a Rough Draft, and Revising. The complete DVD course includes over seven complete hours of instructional taping, 13 class lessons, a student course booklet and parent guide.</i></blockquote>
The DVD course uses the Socratic Method and therefore can be implemented with any history text.<br />
When the DVD course is purchased in a <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/socratic-bundles.html">bundle</a> for a particular topic, such as Ancient Civilizations, a fourth DVD is included in the package. This fourth DVD shows Mr. De Gree taking a group of students through the correlating <i>Take a Stand!</i> book, applying the methods taught in the DVD course. These lessons are also meant to be viewed by both teacher and student.<br />
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The quality of the DVDs is a little rough, and I struggled with this at first. Also, I found the “Extended Introduction” to be way more information than needed, and I was really hoping for more instruction on the program, rather than background. However, the lesson portion, regardless of quality, was helpful with a clear model of how to teach history using this method.<br />
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<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ja-OxMvEPHs/UcvG1e1L1uI/AAAAAAAACNU/8CrE9Ljxubw/s1600-h/6826637%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="6826637" border="0" height="178" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HsP2-GQArEA/UcvG1lQae_I/AAAAAAAACNc/-viBfXdBOxw/6826637_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="6826637" width="129" /></a>The <i><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/take-a-stand-ancient-civilizations-students-edition.html">Take a Stand! Ancient Civilizations Student’s Edition</a></i> covers Early Human Civilizations, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Kush, Ancient Hebrews, Judaism, Ancient Greece, Greek Literature and Mythology, Ancient India, Hinduism and Buddhism, Ancient China, Confucianism, The Roman Republic, and Christianity.<br />
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Each topic is covered in Part 1 with a short paragraph and a question for the students to research, defend, discuss, and complete a writing assignment. Part 2 of the book is titled "Social Studies Literacy Curriculum" and covers the material also included in the DVD curriculum, such as how to approach research, argument, and the writing assignments.<br />
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When it is paired with the DVD course, there are 32 lessons total. Lesson plans, a schedule, and teacher tips are available with the <i><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/32-week-ancient.html">Ancient Civilizations Curriculum Guide</a></i>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/uploads/4/3/7/4/4374494/ancient_sample.pdf"><i>Take a Stand!</i> sample.</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/uploads/4/3/7/4/4374494/classical_historian_ancient_civ._one_year_guide_sample.pdf"><i>Curriculum Guide</i> sample</a><br />
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I feel it would be difficult to use the <i>Take a Stand! </i>books without the DVD curriculum. The <i>Curriculum Guide, </i>which is not included when purchasing the <i>Take a Stand! </i>books individually,<i> </i>gave the books some needed structure to better implement them in your history studies.<br />
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In order to successfully use the Ancient Civilizations curriculum, two text books are needed: <i><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/world-history-textbook.html">World History Detective</a></i> and <i><a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/global-history-readings-amsco-pub.html">Global History and Geography</a></i>. Since these were not included in my package, I am unable to give feedback on the titles. The method can be used with any history text. However, the curriculum is structured around use of these particular titles.<br />
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Of course, history doesn’t need to be all about discussion and writing. There are games too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Qf7dXBNweAxBYc-A-1d9gJeKDj3abqO_OqskCxvus9denj7qYO732mNW3IgNMrrvBi651tZZEU-zCHefexq4IELUeuCcFwy8rSP0t8_UPXLqVwHf3AX6nc_6vLkekMDnLo2kyua0RJM/s1600-h/469747_orig%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="469747_orig" border="0" height="290" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Bnw4yHsF6wk/UcvG2cjcMzI/AAAAAAAACNs/Baxpabb02bU/469747_orig_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="469747_orig" width="400" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/ancient-history-go-fish.html"><i>The Ancient History Go Fish Game</i></a><i> </i>is actually four games in one: Go Fish, Collect the Cards, Chronology, and Continents. Basic facts, chronology, geography, and social skills are learned while playing with the 48 categorized cards. In Go Fish, players collect sets of four cards. Collect the Cards involves reading hints on the cards and obtaining the card when the correct place, person, or thing is answered. Chronology and Continents are more speed and matching games.<br />
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Go Fish and Collect the Cards were the preferred games in our house. We accidentally played Go Fish incorrectly at first, but I liked the results. The cards are categorized in sets of four, and the players are to ask for the category when playing. Instead, we asked for individual cards within a category. This forced us to read and examine the cards more closely. When we played our second game, Collect the Cards, I noticed my son had already memorized some of the groupings simply by playing Go Fish once. The information on the cards is not detailed (see example pic below), but the could be a jumping point for more research.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQy0opCbnSpqlQNe1ZpeYJTj9opfEsZt8gEeVk8RpsQ0iUgrPDRSTzorbd-DNn1wlXrUvc_zVThRZ8jTvJU5WZm1CAZcDROt0Z9-UluhSFWjd5Zi0STHNgtJFbgB9t6CAi-zilUZ0mr4/s1600-h/1121743_orig%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="1121743_orig" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-w8teYDekppw/UcvG3HosgcI/AAAAAAAACN8/J01eslk4NDc/1121743_orig_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="1121743_orig" width="164" /></a></center>
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The box indicates the card game is for ages 3 and up, but most very young children probably won't get much out of the game. They may enjoy the pictures or matching up the categories, but the card game is really best suited for older children, especially those that are able to read the information on them. Also, some knowledge is required to actually play, so this really is a learn-as-you-go game that is paired well with the curriculum.<br />
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Having just completed the <a href="http://centerforlit.com/">Teaching the Classics</a> course, which uses the Socratic discussion for literature studies and is available through another provider who also recommends The Classical Historian, I was familiar with the approach. However, it did take me a little while to wrap my head around how to use the curriculum. Since the <i>Curriculum Guide </i>seemed to pull it together for me, an improvement would be to include some sort of lesson plan for both the <i>DVD Curriculum</i> and the <i>Take a Stand!</i> books, even if it is an abbreviated version of the larger guide. This will help those users who purchase the products individually. Once I got the big picture of how to use the program and got over the DVD quality issue, it was easy to see that the content and model of the Socratic Discussion for the study of history is quite strong in this curriculum. It definitely goes well beyond your typical read, study bits and facts, and spit it out method of many middle school history programs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/index.html">The Classical Historian </a>has <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/individual-products.html">many games and curriculum</a> which cover a variety of time periods, in addition to Economics, which would appeal to Classical homeschoolers. Their variety of <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/games-for-all-ages.html">games</a> would be a great addition to any history curriculum.<br />
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<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-62379017979621862402013-05-15T23:33:00.000-04:002013-05-15T23:33:13.712-04:00Review: Waterproof BibleI first heard about the Waterproof Bible about a year ago. At the time, I thought it was an interesting concept, but something for which I really didn’t have a need. My initial thought was this was a great product for campers. However, my family is not super outdoorsy. When I say “not super outdoorsy”, I mean we have only been camping once and it wasn’t really camping. We “camped” at a state park just a few miles from our house and I even showered at home when I returned briefly to let our dogs out the next morning. Nope, we aren’t exactly the type to rough it.<br />
A love for outdoors did indeed inspire the creation of the Waterproof Bible. As explained by Bobby and Anna Bardin:<br />
<blockquote>
<i>“As believers in Jesus Christ and a love to be in God's creation and exposed to the elements, we have often desired to have a Bible by our side for reading here and there. Our exploring has led us to mountain tops, river banks, sandy beaches, misty valleys, dark caves, and hot springs, and has caused us to become soaked to the core while backpacking or paddling. I hate to admit that our Bible has not made it with us on many of these occasions for the sake of protecting it and because we don't trust a plastic bag not to puncture. Now we can put an end to all the worrying that we have done in the past about our Bibles and take God's Word wherever our adventures lead.”</i></blockquote>
When the opportunity came about to review the Waterproof Bible, I figured it would be a fun review item even if we didn’t camp. I received a pink NLT version of the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tZ1CDF7C6EM/UZRRN2dCl6I/AAAAAAAACLo/Jy6a_q0d1t0/s1600-h/WPB%25255B2%25255D.png"><img alt="WPB" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K9SE7vUMVXA/UZRROdsk95I/AAAAAAAACLw/w-cR4rlFikY/WPB_thumb.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WPB" width="178" /></a><br />
This Bible is printed on plastic, so I was for some reason expecting something a little more bulky and stiff. I was pleased at how it felt in the hands. And while we don’t camp, I knew immediately how I was going to first test it: the bathtub.<br />
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My son takes regular Epsom salt baths. Being much too old to play in the tub, he grumbles that he’s bored. We’ve tried a number of things, including putting a Kindle in Ziploc bag, but each had some inconveniences with it. So, at his next scheduled bath, I handed him the Waterproof Bible and told him not to worry about ruining it. He was a little surprised, but accepted the challenge with a full-immersion Bible baptism.<br />
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Guess what? It even floats!<br />
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<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v9AjQDQvU5s/UZRROgLd0wI/AAAAAAAACL4/GYXmUrPE5qs/s1600-h/wpb1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="wpb1" border="0" height="292" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-snHn304-w8U/UZRRPBwF2AI/AAAAAAAACMA/5pcucnUFvnE/wpb1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="wpb1" width="413" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VDxE-eg6HD8/UZRRPRETWYI/AAAAAAAACMI/CPmiGhQtSJg/s1600-h/wpb2%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="wpb2" border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmbrHMVMjIIapMiAdJXh3H1iCDCADJowzTagdHaLVAKPuWRfmm_fqPyaQbj8hCcuPg5Ezibir-C4TxVqHEK7x_iZF0goC02pnPPFAdUlv0Fc_bK5xgkAW0qf_yL9gLZX1k8b4SEpu9-4/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="wpb2" width="410" /></a><br />
I was a little worried about it possibly acquiring mold from the dampness, but it wasn’t a problem at all. We just sort of gave it a good shake, fanned it out, and dried off any pages that were still stuck together the next day.<br />
<br />
This Bible is 100% waterproof and stain-resistant too!<br />
<br />
Not only is it waterproof, it is durable.<br />
<br />
For those of you who aren’t aware, my family owns a bindery. Our livelihood depends on the manufacturing books and printed products. It also means that my husband feels compelled to check out any bound book that enters our home. He was so impressed with the durability of the Waterproof Bible that he took it into work to show his salesperson.<br />
<br />
An added benefit is that the pages don’t tear. I don’t know about you, but I tend to be a little rough with my page turning and I need to watch out for the typical tissue-paper thin pages of Bibles. And if you have boys, you know they tend to be rough on just about everything.<br />
<br />
Also, because the ink does not bleed on the synthetic pages, the print has surprising clarity, which is about perfect for my aging eyes.<br />
<br />
Dry highlighters (these are a cross between crayons and colored pencils), pens, and regular pencils all work great for marking and making notes. It is nice that nothing bleeds through to the other side as well. The only item to not use on it would be a marker type product since they rely on the ink being absorbed.<br />
You don’t need to camp to appreciate the durability of this product. I can even enjoy my morning tea while reading and not worry about spilling it.<br />
<br />
Overall, I think this is really an ingenious product. I liked it so much that I went ahead and purchased a complete Bible in camouflage for my son (for some reason, he just wasn’t diggin’ the pink). The shipping was very quick! We are also considering purchase of more to send to Zambia with our church’s mission team next year. I’m sure the leaders there will appreciate Bible that can withstand the harsh elements and environment.<br />
<br />
The Waterproof Bible is available in five different versions (ESV, KJV, NIV, NKJV, NLT) and several different cover designs. The New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs is available for $24.95 and a complete version Waterproof Bible for $39.95 - $44.95. Both can be purchased at the <a href="http://www.bardinmarsee.com/waterproof.aspx">Bardin & Marsee Publishing website</a><br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Iv4Hh2pMcqY/UZRRQB5wEFI/AAAAAAAACMU/7IUtTxQ274M/s1600-h/Disclosure%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Disclosure" border="0" height="131" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Urr2J_T036k/UZRRQeo6NJI/AAAAAAAACMY/hhbBTE4ojhQ/Disclosure_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Disclosure" width="373" /></a>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-65232713482542121922013-05-05T16:46:00.000-04:002013-05-05T16:46:13.910-04:00Giveaway: Subscription from Magazines.com<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising.</i></span><br />
<br />
I don't know about you, but my mother has everything! I never know what to get her for special occasions. She has enough trinkets to open her own gift shop and while she loves goodies and chocolate, they make her feel guilty because they aren't good for her. Do you have the same difficulty finding something for your mom on Mother's Day. How about a magazine subscription?<br />
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-63843146503580804032013-04-28T14:58:00.001-04:002013-04-28T15:09:24.148-04:00Review: Spanish for You!When Debbie Annett saw a gap in Spanish instruction for the elementary and middle school grades, she decided to fill it. This seems a natural step given she is an Illinois State Certified Teacher with a bachelor's degree in Spanish from the University of Illinois and a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University. She has also studied in Seville, Spain.<br />
<br />
The result of Annett’s efforts is <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/index.html"><b>Spanish for You!,</b></a> a theme based Spanish curriculum for grades 3-8.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdya3l-j4TPbPVT004Z8tgr4eRE6aa3s2Hnx-SAz-K-Zp2qPnQwsPBatT1ewtUOJ2UQEGlS6fXt6yf0geyCFes_LktPOQUIiu6s5MrLhLsrMwUMM-eOKXC0vMSAdC7DxOHiW0YQM5jhc/s1600/1381897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPdya3l-j4TPbPVT004Z8tgr4eRE6aa3s2Hnx-SAz-K-Zp2qPnQwsPBatT1ewtUOJ2UQEGlS6fXt6yf0geyCFes_LktPOQUIiu6s5MrLhLsrMwUMM-eOKXC0vMSAdC7DxOHiW0YQM5jhc/s1600/1381897.jpg" /></a></div>
Each <b>Spanish for You! </b>package comes with several components:<br />
<ul>
<li>soft cover book</li>
</ul>
Digital downloads of the following:<br />
<ul>
<li>full audio of the entire book read by the author</li>
<li>full audio of the entire book read by a native speaker</li>
<li>Lesson Guide</li>
<li>self-checking worksheets</li>
<li>pictures for flashcards and activities</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<i>“Spanish for You!…teaches the key foundational concepts of pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, syntax, and verb conjugation consistently from chapter to chapter and book to book in a way that students learn Spanish as language components to be put together in different ways, much like building blocks. “</i></blockquote>
There are many Spanish programs, but <b>Spanish for You! </b>approaches instruction a little differently than most.<br />
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The language instruction is<b> theme-based</b>. Currently there are three different themes available: Fiestas (celebrations), Estaciones (seasons), and Viajes (travel).<br />
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I think the theme approach is great for young children. It seems less overwhelming and easier to maintain a higher interest. Also, a variety of games and activities are suggested for the flash cards. Read the author’s <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/2/post/2013/04/student-organizes-verb-flashcards.html">blog post about her thoughts on using flashcards.</a><br />
<br />
The themes are not leveled and do not need to be used in any particular order. Each theme has some new and some overlapping material. Furthermore, <b>multiple grade levels (3-8) can study the same material</b> at the same time. The same book is used for all levels, but different lesson plans and worksheets are provided at varying levels (3/4, 5/6, 7/8). If <b>Spanish for You! </b>is being <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/class-use.html">used in the classroom</a>, the lack of levels within themes allows a new student to start study at their own grade level with those who have previous study.<br />
<br />
This <b>flexibility </b>flows into the use and implementation of the program as well. The Lesson Guides are very easy to follow and the pace can be slowed down or sped up as needed. No previous Spanish experience is needed, either by the student or the teacher. The program can be used in the classroom, at home with one or several students, or as independent study.<br />
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The instruction is <b>gentle</b>. It is meant to introduce a language over several years, in preparation for future study. The two audio recordings help with this approach. The recording by the author, who is not a native speaker, is less intimidating to new learners and allows the articulation to be slowed down. When students are ready, they can listen to the audio files by the native speaker, who naturally speaks at a faster pace and genuine accent.<br />
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There are a few areas with room for improvement, but they are relatively minor. When I received my downloads for the grades 3-8 package, I found the numerous files confusing and needing to be organized. Others did too, and the vendor has since reorganized the worksheet and audio files into folders for all future downloads. Also, the pictures provided for flashcards and activities were created by the author’s daughter, so they are rather juvenile. This was done as a way to offset some of the production costs. Some children may really like this and it will make the program seem more directed toward them. However, older kids might be turned off by it.<br />
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The above issues, however, are a great example of the two largest advantages I’ve seen with <b>Spanish for You!: great customer service </b>and<b> affordability. </b>The author has made great efforts to communicate, answer questions, and correct any issues throughout the review process. This is the key for success to any program. Furthermore, the cost of the program is very reasonable, especially if you need multiple levels.<br />
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To explore <b>Spanish for You! </b>more, be sure to take a look at the free samples available.<br />
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<a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/fiestas_sample_book_pages.pdf">Book: Introduction and Lesson 1</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/fiestas_lesson_guide_samples.pdf">Lesson Guides: Samples for Each Grade</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/uploads/8/0/1/6/8016814/fiestas_sample_worksheets.pdf">Worksheets: Samples for Each Grade</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/curriculum-activities.html">Free Activities and Games</a><br />
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The Fiestas (Celebrations) and Estaciones (Seasons) packages for all grades 3-8 are available for $64.95. If you are only needing one grade level (either 3/4, 5/6, 7/8), it can be purchased for $39.99. If needed, extra lesson books can be purchased for $12.95 each. The worksheets provided are all digital. The Fiestas and Estaciones programs are meant for an entire year. The Viajes (Travels) package is available for either grades 5-8 for $9.99 or grades 3-4 for $12.99, and are used over a period of four and six weeks respectively. Click <a href="http://www.spanish-for-you.net/purchase-curriculum.html">here</a> to purchase.<br />
<br />
All purchases come with a money back guarantee.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqNl0idu_XY826ifuVfq72ZSRX6SGvZjqERpQySSaRq_B2nd9xA_fwEzspxWJIYIurpOvDqKVx29_UfqQoIFiyW0s8TZZoTa4-RzwJzyasNXiDmD6A3V2FC-6T9uaKNN88HGh8s4rTCU/s1600/Disclosure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqNl0idu_XY826ifuVfq72ZSRX6SGvZjqERpQySSaRq_B2nd9xA_fwEzspxWJIYIurpOvDqKVx29_UfqQoIFiyW0s8TZZoTa4-RzwJzyasNXiDmD6A3V2FC-6T9uaKNN88HGh8s4rTCU/s320/Disclosure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-64728084335133354922013-04-23T23:49:00.000-04:002013-04-26T10:21:18.636-04:00Review and Giveaway: Dave Raymond’s American HistoryHaving reviewed and used Compass Classroom’s Visual Latin, I was excited to see several new course offerings, such as Economics and Filmmaking. Among the new releases is Dave Raymond’s American History.<br />
<center>
<a href="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/idevaffiliate.php?id=111_5_1_79" target="_blank"><img alt="American History" border="0" height="250" src="http://store.compasscinema.com/idevaffiliate/banners/american-history-300x250.jpg" width="300" /></a></center>
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Dave Raymond’s American History is a semester course for ages 12 and up which teaches American History from a Christian worldview. It covers Meso-American to The Constitution. <br />
There are thirteen lessons, each broken down into five video segments. Each segment is roughly eight to fifteen minutes long, totaling about an hour of lecture for each lesson. Each lesson’s topic is as follows: <br />
<blockquote>
1. Orientation<br />
2. The Banner of the Sun: Meso-America<br />
3. Brave New World: The Early Explorers<br />
4. The Colossus of Empire: The Colonies<br />
5. Stability and Change: The Reformational Colonies<br />
6. A City Upon a Hill: The Puritans<br />
7. A Foreign War at Home: Wars of Control<br />
8. Grace, the Founder of Liberty: The Great Awakening<br />
9. Fathers of Independence: Adams, Franklin, Witherspoon, and Henry<br />
10. Liberty or Death: The Declaration of Independence<br />
11. Awesome Providence I: The War of Independence<br />
12. Awesome Providence II: The War of Independence<br />
13. A More Perfect Union: The Constitution </blockquote>
The videos consist of Dave Raymond speaking against a basic blue background with related graphics and visuals shown on the screen while he speaks. While the presentations do not have a lot of bells and whistles, they are quite engaging. Dave Raymond is a wonderful story teller and speaker. A Christian worldview and interpretation is woven throughout each lecture, with history being a story of redemption and an exploration of how culture has changed and impacted how people live.<br />
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In addition to the videos, there is a Student Reader and a Teacher’s Guide.<br />
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The approximately 150-page Student Reader is not a traditional textbook format but rather a master assignment and exam list with supplemental reading selections. The Student Reader lists assignments for each lecture. Students are asked to read and ponder a reading, write an essay, or consider various questions.<br />
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Lessons are intended to take one week each and end in a exam with every fifth lecture. The exams are essay, short answer, or narration; students will not be able to succeed at the exams unless they clearly understand the material. Some sample exam questions are: <br />
<ul>
<li>Narrate the story of the Puritans from their stay in Holland to<br />their colonization of America. Include the characters of William Bradford and Miles Standish.</li>
<li>How did the faith of Samuel Adams affect his leadership? </li>
<li>Describe the culture of the American colonies prior to the Great Awakening in detail.</li>
<li>Write a short essay explaining the structure, balance, and wisdom of the United States Constitution and why it has lasted longer than any other constitution.</li>
</ul>
Two larger and more detailed projects are included every semester (one a quarter). The projects for American History Part 1 are creating a historical map and memorizing and presenting a speech in costume. Students are also asked to keep a portfolio throughout the semester, providing an entry for each lesson. The final portfolio is essentially a personalized textbook created entirely by the student.<br />
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My eighth grade son helped me evaluate this program. When he first heard about it, he insisted he start it right away. So, without really investigating all the provided materials, I set him up with the downloaded videos and told him to have at it. Without fail, he watched his short lecture every day without reminder, which is quite telling. He said Mr. Raymond is a “very good speaker” and he was enjoying the lectures. It wasn’t until the explanation of the first project (duplicating an historical map by hand) at the end of Lesson 2 that I realized there were more materials with the curriculum. So, what did I learn? 1) It is best to thoroughly check out a curriculum before handing it to your kids and, 2) Your kids can get quite a bit out of this curriculum simply by handing it over to them and letting them only watch the videos!<br />
<br />
After watching the videos myself, I agree with my son that Dave Raymond keeps the viewer quite engaged. I am not a history buff by any means, but Dave Raymond’s style kept my attention. I like that each lecture was rather short. If desired, the whole lesson’s worth, about an hour long, could be viewed on a single day. However, the shorter segments work very well for us.<br />
<br />
I also appreciated the emphasis on note-taking. How to take notes is covered in the first lesson, but reminders are given in later lessons. For example, important information is written on the screen and it is suggested for students to get the proper spelling (reminding them that they <i>should</i> be writing this down!).<br />
<br />
The reading selections in the Student Reader include speeches, first-hand accounts, sermons, letters, poems, and historical narratives. They are not too lengthy, but definitely of substance. Some may not be all that accessible to the younger end of the recommended age range. I also felt some of the questions may have been a little beyond my son, but it was easy enough to just skip those particular readings and/or questions. As I said, he was getting quite a bit just out of the videos!<br />
<br />
The Teacher Guide gives instructions and guidance on how to grade assignments along with an Answer Key for the exams. Also included are suggestions for further readings listed by lesson.<br />
<br />
We had a little trouble finding an appropriate map for the first project. Sadly, our library had almost nothing available and online maps were very difficult to read. We ended up skipping the project. However, the portfolio project is definitely worth doing (and may include smaller maps) and I like that it is ongoing and completely up to the student on what to include. We haven't reached the second project, a costumed speech presentation, yet. It would be a great group event to do with several other families. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqcFpiaViCEYPMgZz4A5oqDFbfIVKFMX1dTvoTgsNtbN4fUbToZ60H2WEYoxjcIjZ1JnE17Bx_JKJygzz0lkEN3GuZDMgZ2SSYbZ2kBfKaTlXlm6NPQ2llySoWlFeKNrqKoDik45XyuAI/s1600/portfolio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqcFpiaViCEYPMgZz4A5oqDFbfIVKFMX1dTvoTgsNtbN4fUbToZ60H2WEYoxjcIjZ1JnE17Bx_JKJygzz0lkEN3GuZDMgZ2SSYbZ2kBfKaTlXlm6NPQ2llySoWlFeKNrqKoDik45XyuAI/s320/portfolio.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of my son's portfolio project. I was surprised at how much he thoroughly enjoyed creating the cover. The 12" x 12" spiral bound notebook is from www.peareducationalproducts.com.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall, our family has really enjoyed this history curriculum and found it flexible enough to adapt to our family’s needs. Curious if it might be a fit for your family? You can download two free lessons to try!<br />
<br />
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-88445742331956613182013-04-19T16:23:00.000-04:002013-04-19T16:23:19.378-04:00Review and Giveaway: Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I’m Gonna Throw Up!I don't have younger kids reading picture books anymore, but I simply couldn't pass up the chance to review a book titled <b><i>Hey God, I've Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I think I'm Going to Throw Up</i>! </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyf7FP8kENnLmgEYUfariuRp0bZ4U6-t9qyliCKBqer6-FaSYaclJmGq0OxifoeFlJE99Ogby4Ifk-_4bKKeD2Sv4A1vNguGzK6HmXiSgUY31SQ2NLYsYEArnUsxHKhkM-FdzmuRpIeU/s1600/Jonah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKyf7FP8kENnLmgEYUfariuRp0bZ4U6-t9qyliCKBqer6-FaSYaclJmGq0OxifoeFlJE99Ogby4Ifk-_4bKKeD2Sv4A1vNguGzK6HmXiSgUY31SQ2NLYsYEArnUsxHKhkM-FdzmuRpIeU/s320/Jonah.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
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<blockquote>
<i><b>About the Book: </b><br />Oh sure, we've all heard the story of Jonah and the Whale a hundred times. But have we heard it from the perspective of the whale who experienced that history-making event? Hey God, I've Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I'm Gonna Throw Up! imagines how that great sea creature from the incident might tell his side of the story, helping kids ages 4 to 8 discover a creative way of learning about that guy who was supposed to go to Ninevah. The "Parent Connection" feature (inside the book) will help moms and dads take the story further with scripture references and tips on how to talk with their children about what really happened.</i><i> </i></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<i><b>About the Author: </b></i><br />
<i>Troy Schmidt has writing and video production credits ranging from assignments with Disney (The Mickey Mouse Club) and Nickelodeon to Max Lucado's Hermie franchise. He is currently the lead writer for The American Bible Challenge hosted by Jeff Foxworthy on the Game Show Network. Troy and his wife have three sons.</i></blockquote>
I just have to say, this book it super cute. It is very colorfully illustrated with large-featured cartoon illustrations. The complete page is illustrated with the text in word bubbles.<br />
<br />
While the story is told completely from the perspective of the whale, the theme and lesson of the Jonah story is not lost. The whale is running from God as well, and he's rather grumpy about God telling him to swallow Jonah. In the end, just like Jonah, the whale learns to trust and obey God. It would probably be more enjoyable if your child is familiar with the Jonah Bible story before reading the whale's perspective, but kids are bound to enjoy it even if they haven't.<br />
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The back of the book has a Parent Connection section which gives parents guidance on discussing the story of Jonah along with some suggested activities.<br />
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When my teen son saw the title of this book, he snatched it out of my hand and immediately sat down to read it. I think I may have even heard a few giggles! "Aww, that's a really cute book," he said upon completion. I can't wait to share this book with my niece and nephew. If my teen finds it cute, I think a preschooler and first grader definitely will!<br />
<br />
<i><b>Hey God, I've Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I'm Going to Throw Up!,</b> </i>brought to you by B & H, will available on May 1st for $9.99 <a href="http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9781433679643">here</a>. It is only the first in the series with the titles <b><i>Hey God, Can You Stop the Rain so I Can Get off Noah's Smelly Ark?</i> </b>and <b><i>Hey God, I'm Having an Awful Vacation in Egypt Thanks to Moses! </i></b>also available.<br />
<br />
I have a copy of the book available to one lucky reader. There are numerous ways to enter below!<br />
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<i>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.</i><br />
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-68518357374311747752013-04-17T08:13:00.003-04:002013-04-17T08:15:45.317-04:0030% Sale at Compass Classroom!Starting today you can get 30% off ALL products with code CCSPRING30!<br />
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Check out <i>Visual Latin, Economics for Everybody, American History, Modern Parables</i>, and more. I've been very please with all of the products I've tried from Compass Classroom.<br />
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-4191468703346141402013-04-15T14:35:00.002-04:002013-04-16T21:21:50.507-04:00Review and Giveaway: Exploring Microgravity (Janet's Planet)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6hV-NbGEndRxsTSRU2J5fJf_y2Kir8a2oymJBvg0lTzeLKY_91iOukU_lrnetq5cON9H16NmN3-jiUTuM-YZs50RhZUKxE-adbnNfoFgUTnJPFIoq15bmykr9IpmaBMa3hmJHheRHAP4/s1600/Janet_Planet.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6hV-NbGEndRxsTSRU2J5fJf_y2Kir8a2oymJBvg0lTzeLKY_91iOukU_lrnetq5cON9H16NmN3-jiUTuM-YZs50RhZUKxE-adbnNfoFgUTnJPFIoq15bmykr9IpmaBMa3hmJHheRHAP4/s1600/Janet_Planet.PNG" /></a></div>
Do you have kids interested in science? <b><i>Exploring Microgravity</i></b>, by Space Florida and featuring Janet Ivey, is a new DVD that helps younger kids exploring gravity and microgravity. <br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div>
<i><b><u>From Janet Ivey</u></b></i></div>
<div style="font-size: medium;">
<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Helvetica;"><i>“For
the past decade, science education has been my passion and America’s
children have been my inspiration. It is incredible to see how excited
children can become about the world around them when the information is
presented in an accessible and fun way. That is the mission of Janet’s
Planet, and I look forward to continuing to support better science
education in the years to come.” </i></span></div>
</blockquote>
Janet explains gravity in a fun and engaging way. As she talks in front of the camera, graphics and video are brought in and out on the screen. The approximately 35-minute DVD concludes with Janet experiencing a parabolic flight on the Zero G Boeing 727 (my personal favorite part!). The explanations are quite thorough, yet simplistic enough for a younger crowd. Overall, I'd say the target age range is probably early-to-mid elementary. What I especially appreciated about <b><i>Exploring Microgravity</i></b> is that having a female host could be encouraging to young girls to pursue science studies and careers.<br />
<br />
Check out the <a href="http://www.janetsplanet.com/">Janet's Planet website</a> , where in addition to purchasing the DVD, visitors can also play games, watch videos, ask questions, and more.<br />
<br />
Now for a bonus for my readers, I get to giveaway a copy of Exploring Microgravity to one lucky person. Enter below for your chance to win!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising.</span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-90007109639975217912013-04-11T15:08:00.003-04:002013-04-11T19:18:09.775-04:00Review: The Ultimate Homeschool Planner SystemFor years I’ve struggled with planning and scheduling, using numerous planners, both purchased and self-created, with mixed results. Some challenges in finding something that works is that our homeschool is quite an eclectic mix and our needs change often. For example, some of my kids’ courses are very scheduled, especially outside classes; others are quite relaxed. We have classes that are done daily, weekly, and monthly, with some lasting all year, others a semester, and some for six weeks. In addition, my children approach their school day very differently. One needs a very specific assignment list and schedule, and the other would rather have assignment due dates but not held accountable to an exact schedule each day. As for me, I hate being stuck to a rigid schedule but find that I absolutely need to have some sort of overall planner or I won’t be able to keep it all together.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html"><i>The Ultimate Homeschool Planner</i></a>, designed by Debra Bell, is a planning <i>system</i>. In addition, the parent planner is meant to work *with* the two student planners, <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/328-the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens.html"><i>The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</i></a> and The <i><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/332-the-ultimate-daily-planner-for-students.html">Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</a></i>. Our family had the opportunity to review all three planners, each designed for a particular need, yet they all worked together. I think this is key, at least for our family.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sUNPpj8ySiM/UWcGgg4_DFI/AAAAAAAACHQ/Eyi55rVfxCM/s1600-h/planner%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="planner" border="0" height="279" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2W-schUxVnQ/UWcGgzbSe7I/AAAAAAAACHY/a-SKawkoh9E/planner_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner" width="353" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html"><i><img align="left" alt="the-ultimate-homeschool-planner" border="0" height="220" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ie0HN_S7cPg/UWcGhV3xxOI/AAAAAAAACHg/KWEASURDqX4/the-ultimate-homeschool-planner%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="the-ultimate-homeschool-planner" width="220" /></i></a>Let’s start with the planner meant for the homeschooling parent, <i><b>The Ultimate Homeschool Planner</b></i>. First of all, I simply like the feel of this planner. It has a large spiral and it easily lies flat and open. The cover is plastic and has some substance, yet is flexible. The planner is significant in size so it won’t get lost, but it isn’t bulky. The covers also have pocket folders, perfect for those I’m-not-sure-where-to-put-this-but-it-is-important-to-have-nearby items.<br />
The content is a nice balance of instruction and inspiration with useful recording and planning pages. The beginning pages teach the parent how to purposefully plan, starting with a big picture of goals and time commitments, and bringing it down to how that looks at a daily level. The parent is walked through a Yearly Planning Retreat, Monthly Planning Sessions, Weekly Planning Breaks, right down to Monday Morning Tutorials and Friday Afternoon Reviews with all the appropriate forms. Being a highly visual person, I love, love, love the pages showing how completed planning pages might actually look, including the student planners.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzNTCKM-n2RWc5K7-WrVXm46b4hVqH3G10-l5ms856DdAres0WlY2JzTSseDtcDLCRGT7t8a3mIPfS1qNgwYMKWAN9BjcqqqZEy7UccIUEwq8zOIVfMtQ8_Jtr1ZGkb6d-qqGSJ8DP8o/s1600/planner7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzNTCKM-n2RWc5K7-WrVXm46b4hVqH3G10-l5ms856DdAres0WlY2JzTSseDtcDLCRGT7t8a3mIPfS1qNgwYMKWAN9BjcqqqZEy7UccIUEwq8zOIVfMtQ8_Jtr1ZGkb6d-qqGSJ8DP8o/s320/planner7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The bulk of the planner consists of monthly and weekly planning pages for one calendar year. Each month is a two-page spread, with the dates blank so you can begin to use the planner at any time of the year and be able to fully utilize it. The weekly pages consist of two full page spreads. The first is a grid of six blocks across and six down. There is also a section in the margins for notes, supply lists, and appointments. The next weekly page spread is more for purpose and reflection. They include sections for recording Bible study and focus, prayers, outreach, memorable moments and “evidences of grace” each week. The best feature of the weekly page is flexibility; the rows and columns are not labeled. It took me a couple of tries to figure out what worked for me, but I eventually came up with a personalized system. I need very detailed plans or I will forget some important tasks. Therefore, allotting a block for a day’s work or a subject’s assignments was simply not working. Instead, I drew a line down the middle, giving each child three rows and<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJ1j2Xw0rzqlPt0wjW0pU1o21om9vsljUT4ICaLp05QKRQR3S8E8Hpd1atJz-YCCa5Li_1LvT3ZGzV9X1ooLuFSp6gEliXnSY4Kc22NXR_awhs3bwsqgJgNDMARW_6Kqu7OerzHpUBrg/s1600-h/planner2%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="planner2" border="0" height="215" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6ySvAYS_5I4/UWcGifVz4pI/AAAAAAAACHw/1NLUQooxtPs/planner2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner2" width="321" /></a> six columns. I wrote the days across the top and used three blocks for each day’s work, keeping the order of subjects consistent. This way I could include appointments and activities as well. It wasn’t pretty, but the important part is it worked. Having a detailed week’s plan for both children on a two-page spread was just what I needed. I’m still tweaking my system. Since my youngest usually doesn’t need as much space, I’m thinking of adding a row in the middle for my activities and appointments as well. <br />
The remaining pages contain forms to record grades, reading lists, year-end review notes along with several teaching tips articles.<br />
<br />
Check out the available copy of the <a href="https://shop.apologia.com/index.php?controller=attachment?id_attachment=59">Table of Contents</a> and a <a href="https://shop.apologia.com/index.php?controller=attachment?id_attachment=19">Planner Sample</a> for a better idea of the structure and layout.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvrl6qaPuKl6ZdsiazHGTI7e5E_5VrFBEMWfIBjiDXbw9JUV-waMOTxvpvTqvcIAYZaaQ05-gwSjRRjNufyw-21_qaB0x7RMq4yo8nN32EmAk1EdLYfPxuJZmvQ7s2yrwvkT-sTuj1Rc/s1600-h/the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens" border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPb_4PDIIg2WLylgGJu0Z4C_9Bbi7yO1myyFPE1g2UVuHJX8WtUz4L6oxPolTfJ2v7EJZpOTFdB5HhkJx28bHnqSfmWhsOkhudAyf9gx9EuMZEXcvUSA42ojEpUY8EXyRXY6jnX7hyeg/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="the-ultimate-weekly-planner-for-teens" width="220" /></a>My kids used two different planners. My daughter used <i><b>The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</b></i>. After a couple of year overview type pages and then twelve monthly pages, each week is provided a two-page grid plan with the days across the top and blank column boxes. Each box also has two segmented circles representing an hour each, allowing the student to keep track of on task time in 15 minute increments. The student planners are about half the size of the parent planner, which was preferable to my daughter. However, she found she didn’t quite have enough room to write all her assignments fully. There are only five rows with which to work, requiring some grid boxes to contain more than one subject. My daughter relied on abbreviations and I kept more detailed information in my own planner. The last 35 pages are devoted to grade records, an activities log, credit tracker, general study information, college application planning and notes.<br />
<br />
My daughter’s past success rate with planners has been similar to mine. She simply hasn’t been able to find one she’ll consistently use. I also have a difficult time balancing giving her freedom and micro-managing when it comes to her schedule. Most of my daughter’s work is either outside classes or independent study. If I give too much freedom, I become very out of touch of what assignments and projects she has coming up. This means I can easily overschedule her with other activities and she can also get in too deep too quickly if I am not overseeing. On the flip side, she resents me structuring her exact daily activities. With The Ultimate Planners, we’ve been having a weekly meeting were we decide together her goals and daily activities for the week. This keeps me in the loop and ensures we are on the same page, in addition to allowing me to guide unrealistic time expectations or help prioritize. I then have a reference in my own planner in order to check in with her throughout the week.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="planner3" border="0" height="289" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pDgydY5VZf4/UWcGjzaEcLI/AAAAAAAACIQ/u_Tfwndrl2c/planner3_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner3" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It looks a mess, but this planner really does keep her organized. Items are starred upon completion. The circled items are those still needing completed that may have gotten bumped in the schedule.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Take a peek yourself by checking out the <a href="https://shop.apologia.com/index.php?controller=attachment?id_attachment=142">14-page sample</a> of the teen planner.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BZDoEDls9_k/UWcGkKahWfI/AAAAAAAACIY/rGPOiV2ycQI/s1600-h/planner4%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="planner4" border="0" height="220" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQX3xhgbcpQ/UWcGkkUPh8I/AAAAAAAACIg/lBFWv0kzUjo/planner4_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner4" width="220" /></a>My son used <b><i>The Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</i></b>. Even though he is a teen and the planner was designed for elementary and middle school kids, this planner has been a great fit for him. In fact, he has seen become very reliant. It has surprisingly created a focus and consistency in his work he didn’t have previously. The format of the weekly planning pages is more a checklist style. Each day has eight lines for assignments with “done” and “approved” columns. My very linear thinker loved the straightforward schedule in addition to being able to see a week at a time. I keep the order of subjects very consistent and he has developed a routine for completing his work. I used to give him a daily check list, but having the whole week written out in daily increments has been much more effective for him. It gives him the big picture he needs without overwhelming him. I am quite impressed with how focused he has been in completing his tasks for the day. In fact, if I neglect to have the day’s assignments written in, he badgers me in the morning until I complete his planner. I can see how he will easily transition to the teen planner and begin creating his own schedule after using this one for a while. The remaining pages are similar to the teen planner, minus the college preparation pages. (Note: The spiral binding on this planner glows in the dark!). This planner is a huge success story for my son! If you have older kids who need something different than the teen planner, I would not hesitate to give this one a look.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMKwJo_bdZx2eVz_UkzWRN0aLdqcCrvjVrOBuiwJ8WMoY4dngHdkBqXVFDhyphenhyphenW7IxbNx4oVsrYz_kCHRDkPmOB0Nlw2gLJLuGSC3XbkKtLKXY8IkMY8va93Pw-E2E29b8N7PFZApfM02A/s1600/planner5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMKwJo_bdZx2eVz_UkzWRN0aLdqcCrvjVrOBuiwJ8WMoY4dngHdkBqXVFDhyphenhyphenW7IxbNx4oVsrYz_kCHRDkPmOB0Nlw2gLJLuGSC3XbkKtLKXY8IkMY8va93Pw-E2E29b8N7PFZApfM02A/s400/planner5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My kids' different personalities are quite obvious by looking at how they use their planners. This is my linear, "just give me a list to complete" child.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A <a href="https://shop.apologia.com/index.php?controller=attachment?id_attachment=141">sample of the student planner</a> is available for a closer look.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="planner6" border="0" height="307" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fsvApwOdgjc/UWcGl9WNAeI/AAAAAAAACJA/YZV_cOuu4og/planner6_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="planner6" width="427" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These planners are each different, yet work together as a system.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While I’m not utilizing this planning system fully yet, I am consistently using it with success. It is not intimidating and is fairly flexible. Furthermore, it has plenty of tools, should you decide to use them, but the function of the planners is not dependent upon them. The fact that the planners all work together yet serve different needs it the greatest benefit. <br />
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<i><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html">The Ultimate Homeschool Planner</a></i> is available for $28. <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html"><i>The Ultimate Weekly Planner for Teens</i></a> and <i><a href="http://shop.apologia.com/books/308-the-ultimate-homeschool-planner.html">The Ultimate Daily Planner for Students</a></i> are both available for $19 each. All three planners can be <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/77-planners">purchased through Apologia</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aDHg0K1iGXQ/UWcGmAiX8qI/AAAAAAAACJI/vlvveU8O83s/s1600-h/Disclosure%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Disclosure" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tlzRXan_gME/UWcGmiSlU2I/AAAAAAAACJQ/P9ovab54aZM/Disclosure_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Disclosure" /></a><br />
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<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-68792133934374631612013-04-02T22:55:00.001-04:002013-04-03T09:01:12.646-04:00Preparing for ConventionI've been going to homeschool conventions off and on for many years. This first one was a small local convention I attended our first year. I only went as a participant the one time, but the last two years I've had a different perspective as a vendor. It has given me new appreciation for the other side of conventions!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZaVqCspnxiNYAooR0L0YPwonUXgel2YtLhKI8hBWqAGShQiOvCpu4HPvxL9_O8SlJWPh1vqk-KDTZJRCCBwNhA5dyO2j0H0KDPU1Wd1RQKl3YY78nJvQChKVwkUUyKNNuz3Haq1BRVI/s1600/booth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZaVqCspnxiNYAooR0L0YPwonUXgel2YtLhKI8hBWqAGShQiOvCpu4HPvxL9_O8SlJWPh1vqk-KDTZJRCCBwNhA5dyO2j0H0KDPU1Wd1RQKl3YY78nJvQChKVwkUUyKNNuz3Haq1BRVI/s320/booth.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our booth for www.peareducationalproducts.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This week, though, I'll be a participant. I started attending the Midwest Convention the very first year they had it, when it was located on a church campus outside of Cincinnati. Now, however, this convention was massive. Honestly, I don't know how new homeschoolers would take it all in. With a little preparation, however, you can get a lot more out of the experience.<br />
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I usually just skim the vendor participant list. I always budget for some impromptu purchases, but overall I use the vendor hall just to look. I may have a particular subject narrowed down to two programs and will take the opportunity to hold them in my hands and talk to the vendor. In general, though, I don't make major purchases (but I have been known to make some <a href="http://chatterandclatter.blogspot.com/2009/05/coincidence-or-shut-up-and-listen.html">if I'm really listening!</a>) I tend to make my purchases the very last day, so I can ponder if I really need the item. I also use the vendor hall time to just browse lesser known vendors and see what is out there.<br />
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Usually, though, I'm there for the workshops. Some time slots have over twenty workshops offered! How in the world does one decide?<br />
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First, I print off the schedule, with just the titles, not the whole description (to avoid pages and pages). I pull up the descriptions on my laptop. I usually have a couple workshops I'm drawn to, so I read those first. Then I read any workshop description that is even remotely applicable to our homeschool. I often end up crossing some off and adding others based on the descriptions. Make sure you read the bio of the speakers, too. It will give you a feel for their perspective on the topic.<br />
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In previous years, I would be able to narrow it down to just a couple or as many as a half dozen in the same time slot. Some have readily available recordings and get crossed off the list. For example, many of Andrew Pudewa's talks are available for purchase at the IEW website. I usually end up purchasing many of the recordings at the end of the convention too. Sometimes I make the wrong choice in which to attend. I have left one workshop for another on my list if it ended up being not what I thought. Tip: Sit in an area where you can easily escape. I once ended up in an overfilled room, on the floor in the front corner. I wanted to poke my eyes out and plug my ears the whole time because the speaker was giving some misinformation. It was impossible to leave the room gracefully. Seats by the door are now my choice.<br />
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You always know which are the great workshops because you'll hear others talking about them and the available recordings will constantly be selling out. If you hear a particular speaker is good, look ahead in the schedule to see if they are giving another workshop later, even on another topic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iepIDXyU_Mxm-A_vHFlkG6A_-5J36_dg7MjhvHd3cFnAPq2nBV3CY-BGML0CescAHCVAugHsD1pcVdIENEpVcVUGCA_QQm5v5Rq0dSqa4ri502wxnw-4m3a3e4aPnCHwoFX3X5ZN3Aw/s1600/IMG_0294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iepIDXyU_Mxm-A_vHFlkG6A_-5J36_dg7MjhvHd3cFnAPq2nBV3CY-BGML0CescAHCVAugHsD1pcVdIENEpVcVUGCA_QQm5v5Rq0dSqa4ri502wxnw-4m3a3e4aPnCHwoFX3X5ZN3Aw/s320/IMG_0294.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I highlight my choices, using a designated color for first, second, and third choices. Because I've been to the Midwest Convention numerous times, I've heard many of the speakers already. It makes choosing so much easier. Also, with teens, many of the topics no longer apply here. We've got the reading down, I've figure out unit studies aren't my thing, and I could probably present Homeschooling 101 myself. I have most time slots narrowed down to one or two workshops of interest. <br />
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Now the rest of my preparation will be focused on comfort. See those shoes in the pic above? Most. Comfortable. Shoes. Ever! I purchased them to walk around Disney for our last vacation and I dug them out for this week. Skechers Go Walk if you want to make a shoe run. I also plan to pack a light jacket or sweater. The rooms are always freezing. I pack a notebook and pen for notes, but I usually just use them to doodle since I have trouble sitting still. I may bring some knitting along this year to help with that. I highly recommend packing some snacks to eat on the run and bottled water. This year I think I'll have time to catch a proper meal, but several years back I hardly had time to eat between sessions. I do best with high protein snacks, like beef jerky or cheese. If you are a coffee drinker, you may want to scope out a coffee shop ahead of time. (Hint: There is one right outside of the vendor hall in the convention center.)<br />
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Aside from packing, I'm ready to go. Once I get my morning Starbucks, I will be prepared for each day at convention.<br />
<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-45238378459683408702013-03-14T20:27:00.001-04:002013-03-14T20:27:57.446-04:00Happy Pi Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKiomMA7E69THuDW4EJEXa5TnWU_wfXmfLiRtOkO7snaTO2Tan51-RdUTmyMXN6csBX77wKKnvymMn9dVIBlb1BQTr_YeUFsVcpK-ExsIJUJ3uvfQwo87sfPOAD0q19-P1lzf7lN74xk/s1600/IMG_0287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKiomMA7E69THuDW4EJEXa5TnWU_wfXmfLiRtOkO7snaTO2Tan51-RdUTmyMXN6csBX77wKKnvymMn9dVIBlb1BQTr_YeUFsVcpK-ExsIJUJ3uvfQwo87sfPOAD0q19-P1lzf7lN74xk/s320/IMG_0287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The original plan was macaroni and cheese, but my kids insisted I make chicken pot pie instead in honor of Pi Day. We had apple pie for dessert. Yum!<br /><br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-53946599332887243932013-03-02T13:57:00.000-05:002013-03-02T13:57:48.854-05:00VeggieTales The Little House That Stood (Giveaway!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ngD9wvVe1frr7BI6TM4vqU_4hGM-aIG769qrPfIaijYCfOXT25IXaw0YwEwldEhS59h9iOTptViy6lM_CcncLMBzt9aWt_-iCZl06DON_TXs_pp8VSzq5impd_FfxVkg_hFvolo4k4c/s1600/VeggieTales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ngD9wvVe1frr7BI6TM4vqU_4hGM-aIG769qrPfIaijYCfOXT25IXaw0YwEwldEhS59h9iOTptViy6lM_CcncLMBzt9aWt_-iCZl06DON_TXs_pp8VSzq5impd_FfxVkg_hFvolo4k4c/s1600/VeggieTales.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anytime someone in our household has misplaced an item and mentions it, the result is usually a spontaneous rendition of "Where is My Hairbrush" from VeggieTales.<br />
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The history of VeggieTales in our house goes way back. In fact, it goes so far back that I remember the first release, which was the beginning of our entire VHS collection (yes, VHS!). Our collection is now long gone, but my kids still reference VeggieTale jokes and belt out an occasional VeggieTales tune (Madame Blueberry's "I'm So Blue" is quite popular, too!).<br />
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When the opportunity to review <b>The Little House That Stood </b>presented itself, I couldn't help but get a little excited - even though my youngest is a teen!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/7K65sINFgro?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Synopsis </b>(from the website):</span> </span><br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>When
the Three Little Pigs roll into Cabbageville looking to build some new
houses, they meet one builder with a plan and two without a clue! Larry
builds with hay, Mr. Lunt with bricks, but only Bob builds his houses on
a firm foundation - following the wise plans from the Master Builder's
Handbook! Will the Little Piggies make the right choices when it comes
to building their houses - and their lives - on solid ground? Find out
in this parable that shows kids when they follow God's blueprints, then
can stand strong when the storms come! </i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I won't <span style="font-size: small;">call out w<span style="font-size: small;">hich one, but one of my kids requ<span style="font-size: small;">ested to watch the movie the day it arrived, giggling th<span style="font-size: small;">rough the whole thing. I <span style="font-size: small;">love that the<span style="font-size: small;"> VeggieTales movies always have plenty of quirky jokes for the <span style="font-size: small;">over 12 audience. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>I have to admit I might have giggled through the "Happy Toothday" <span style="font-size: small;">Silly Song by Larry the Cucumber (though "<span style="font-size: small;">Where is My Hairbru<span style="font-size: small;">sh?" is still my favorite)</span></span>. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you'd like to take the movie beyond 49 <span style="font-size: small;">minutes of g<span style="font-size: small;">iggles and <span style="font-size: small;">quiet time (f<span style="font-size: small;">or eithe<span style="font-size: small;">r <span style="font-size: small;">you or the kids, de<span style="font-size: small;">pendi<span style="font-size: small;">ng on how you look at it!)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>, the <a href="http://veggietales.com/littlehouse/">website </a>has <a href="http://veggietales.com/littlehouse/activities/">coloring pages</a> to download<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> and</span> <a href="http://www.veggietales.com/littlehouse/images/characters/discussionguide.pdf">a discussion <span style="font-size: small;">guide</span></a><span style="font-size: small;">. There are also some clips of the movie<span style="font-size: small;"> to preview, including Larry's Silly Song "Happy Tooth<span style="font-size: small;">d</span>ay".</span></span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9gX22WQcUmo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.veggietales.com/littlehouse/images/characters/discussionguide.pdf"> </a><br />
<b>Th</b><span style="font-size: small;"><b>e Little House That Stood</b> is an adorable merger of fair<span style="font-size: small;">y <span style="font-size: small;">tales and Bible para<span style="font-size: small;">bles to teach kids about decision making. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm excited to be able to offer my rea<span style="font-size: small;">ders</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> a chance to win <span style="font-size: small;">a </span>copy of VeggieTales' <b>The Little House That S</b><span style="font-size: small;"><b>tood</b>! En<span style="font-size: small;">ter the giv<span style="font-size: small;">e<span style="font-size: small;">aw<span style="font-size: small;">ay below!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the
products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would
mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services
I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16
CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span> <script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-60147218555773778732013-02-27T16:24:00.001-05:002013-02-28T14:30:06.394-05:00In the Passenger's SeatOn Friday, we woke up to snow-covered streets and falling snow. The salt trucks hadn't completed their rounds but we had already planned on meeting some friends for a morning workout at the local Y.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7d15y2cA6S6pArmqf3OLL-pWxKLblpoWdqRYi59MefbOaM-JqHbj3L8KvLs097Du6KaFiVI-5dr_YbkpV2SHYbI6BntZb3k9jA_AE0GmJMU940HE4Us7o_fk1wGYCI2sOL8VLoOkpzYY/s1600/snow-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7d15y2cA6S6pArmqf3OLL-pWxKLblpoWdqRYi59MefbOaM-JqHbj3L8KvLs097Du6KaFiVI-5dr_YbkpV2SHYbI6BntZb3k9jA_AE0GmJMU940HE4Us7o_fk1wGYCI2sOL8VLoOkpzYY/s320/snow-tree.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was a perfect time for my student driver to get a feel for driving in the snow.<br />
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Snowy Roads + Teen Driver = Nervous Mom</div>
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It was a short drive, I told myself; we could do this.<br />
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And we did. It was an uneventful round trip there and back. <br />
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It would have been so much easier on me to just do the driving and just say, "Look, honey. This is how it is done."<br />
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Of course, that is not what my teen needed. My teen needed to experience the drive, control the wheel, plan for herself, and adjust if she started to slide. My job was to sit in the passenger's seat and be ready to direct, guide, warn...and hang on for dear life. <br />
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It is sort of symbolic of parenting, isn't it?<br />
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Sometimes teens need us to take the wheel, and that is ok. There are times when I've had to tell my kids to figuratively pull over so I could drive for a bit and get them out of a mess. However, don't be too quick to take the wheel. Kids often just need us to be along for the ride (possibly holding our breath), ready to rescue them from a near collision. Sometimes I see danger barreling down the path, but I need to give my teens a chance to see and react first. Otherwise, I'll diminish the lessons that can be learned before they need to travel on their own.<br />
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<b>It can be terrifying.</b><br />
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I've had other parents question some decisions I've made for our kids. Sometimes it involves safety concerns, such as allowing a child to fly alone to visit out-of-state friends. Other times, it may involve academic choices or social situations. Usually it isn't an outright judgement, but more of an "I'm not sure if I could allow my child to do that." It is about a parent's lack of comfort in letting their child make choices - to see and to react - on a path that isn't completely clear.<br />
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It definitely isn't comfortable. Not at all.<br />
<br />
<b>Here's the thing </b>- <b>I'd rather have my child navigate some of these slippery paths with me right there in the passenger's seat where I can direct, guide, and warn, rather than for the first time on a solo drive. </b>Just like driving, life takes practice. You wouldn't send them to drive in a snow storm solo without a little guided practice first. Why do so with the path of life?<br />
<br />
After surviving our short jaunt
to the Y on Friday, yesterday I decided my teen was going to take the wheel for our normally
45-minute trip home from choir. Because our drive home involves three
major freeways during rush hour, she had never driven the route home.
Yesterday, it also involved rain, sleet, and heavy snow as a storm blew through the area.<br />
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Having a
little more life experience in wintery weather traffic conditions, I was
much more nervous than my teen. Her earlier drive on Friday had given her a little confidence. Even so, she knew to still be on high alert. She was quite willing to take instruction, but really didn't need much. I tried to keep my mouth shut and she tried not to comment too many times when she saw my foot move toward the imaginary passenger's side brake. With traffic congested and moving slowly, it was a long ride.<br />
<br />
Despite my visions of ending up in the ditch like some fellow drivers, two hours later we made it to our neighborhood safely.<br />
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Did I want to take the wheel and make the drive myself? Yes. Was it uncomfortable? Absolutely. But I now feel better knowing my daughter has managed a storm with me by her side. She'll know what to do if one unexpectedly comes in while she's driving alone.<br />
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It isn't easy being in the passenger's seat, whether figuratively or literally. It can be terrifying. It takes courage - and prayers.<br />
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But sometimes, you just need to let them drive.</div>
<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-31923476388750994272013-02-22T14:29:00.003-05:002013-02-22T14:29:52.241-05:00Planning with Simplicity<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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They say your blog should reflect you and be real.<br />
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A friend
often tells me I have an “all or nothing” personality. If that is the case, my blog definitely has been a
reflection of the nothing part. It has been seriously
neglected lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, it has been
bordering abandoned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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For a variety of reasons, I decided to get back on
track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have an “all or nothing”
personality, you know that a challenge in making changes is creating obtainable,
yet satisfying, goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need to be
careful to not go all grand plan and try in an effort to make myself an overnight sensation
of the homeschooling Blogsphere.</div>
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Baby steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must do
this in baby steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also need to keep
in mind, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail,” which is a really old saying
that is still around, so there must be something to it.</div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>When <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/">Mosaic Reviews </a>asked that its team of reviewers check out a list of blog planners and select one for review, I sort of cringed - and possibly even twitched a little. While I know I <i>need </i>to plan, I quickly became overwhelmed with some of the really awesome and elaborate planners out there. They just didn't fit with my writing-when-inspired approach to blogging (a.k.a. flying by the seat of your pants and hope it works out).<br />
<br />
A simple blog planner is what I need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I found it.</span><br />
<br />
Check out
this <a href="http://fatbird-designs.com/2012/10/24/free-blog-planner/">planner offered for FREE</a> by <a href="http://fatbird-designs.com/">Girl in The Woods</a>.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9ss2aplRRZIcQXxnkFXJLtigy_ajDBQAcZmJt3tpT7hheHJrAUPQiA5SSCYM8Kbm6Ha2dgUHPDyhia3tZdotvuAE6UZ2Ot9QzDwqTaQFpS1pcATxCzOXjuznwwCntCyaThSuojAT6xk/s1600/blog-post-planner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9ss2aplRRZIcQXxnkFXJLtigy_ajDBQAcZmJt3tpT7hheHJrAUPQiA5SSCYM8Kbm6Ha2dgUHPDyhia3tZdotvuAE6UZ2Ot9QzDwqTaQFpS1pcATxCzOXjuznwwCntCyaThSuojAT6xk/s400/blog-post-planner.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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A whole month of planning is on *one* page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gives you space to think about daily
topics (weekends off!) with a side column to note tags, categories, and
links.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Up at the top is a short and
simple reminder list for each post.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Following
this checklist would have saved me some past headaches!</div>
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I’m not sure if I will be able come up with enough topics
and inspiration for a daily blog post. I think I’ll commit to posting two or
three times a week for starters. Perhaps I can use the other days spaces to plan for
blog hopping, posting on my blog’s FB page, or some other non-posting activity. </div>
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Also,
if I think of a topic, but don’t have time for it at the moment, I can just jot
it down for a future week, rather than trying to recall that great blog post I
had thought of when I didn’t have time to write, but was sure I would remember. Some weeks I have tons of ideas and little time. Other weeks when I actually have time to write, I've got nothin'! This simple planner will help me organize my random thoughts and time into something that just may work.</div>
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The simplicity of this planner, available as a free download, doesn't make me overwhelmed and
feel like I have to fill in every blank or I'm a blogging failure.</div>
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Thank you, <a href="http://fatbird-designs.com/">Girl in The Woods</a>, for the
inspiration to get back on track. </div>
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-69976823130443241072013-02-21T17:35:00.000-05:002013-02-21T17:35:18.280-05:00Hello, I'm Heidi. Nice to meet you!Ever feel like it has been so long since you talked to someone that you needed to reintroduce yourself?<br />
<br />
Yep. That's where I am at. I've hardly blogged since last June. It wasn't an intentional break, but a much needed one. Since then, I've been left with the question of whether or not I want to step back into blogging or not. For a variety of reasons, I've opted to keep it going for a bit longer. So,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Hello, I'm Heidi. Nice to meet you!</b></span></div>
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<br />
Now that we are reacquainted, you will see more posts happening here in the near future, both personal and product reviews.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, what has happened since my blog break? I often don't think much in my life is truly blog-worthy, but when taking a look at the last six months, there are a few worthy mentions:<br />
<ul>
<li>I am now the mom of not one, but two teens. (Where has the time gone?) </li>
<li>I stepped down from my review position with a homeschooling magazine for a variety of reasons. </li>
<li>We will soon have a third official driver in the house! (Say prayers!)</li>
<li>I started writing a monthly column with <a href="http://homeschoolmosaics.com/">Homeschool Mosaics</a>. If you haven't checked them out yet, you must. There is something for everyone.</li>
<li>I've lost over 25 pounds!</li>
<li>One of my teens has started dating. (Oh my!) </li>
<li>My kids <span style="font-size: small;">starred</span> in a zombie short film this summer. It was hilarious.</li>
<li>I have a new reviewer position with <a href="http://www.eclectichomeschool.org/">Eclectic Homeschool Online.</a> </li>
<li>One of my kids vacationed with essentially strangers in Arizona for a week this summer. (Nerve-wracking and full of parental trust, but a good experience.) </li>
<li>I'm doing yet more reviews with the new <a href="http://mosaicreviews.com/">Mosaics Review Team</a>.</li>
<li>I am mom to a black belt. </li>
<li>Our family went on our first real vacation in over five years.</li>
<li>One of my teens and I attended our first college fair. (Again, where did the time go?)</li>
</ul>
I've had a dabble of excitement, some new opportunities, and a whole new world of parenting challenges!Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-36703776775870744602013-01-15T23:31:00.001-05:002013-01-16T11:59:54.024-05:00Review: Make It Real LearningWe all remember those story problems about two trains traveling certain speeds at a given distance in opposite directions or asking the percentage of blue-eyed boys in a given classroom, as if this would be must-know information later in life. Problems like these didn’t exactly make you jump up and down with enthusiasm to learn the math concepts, did they? The relevance of learning how to solve such problems is lost on most students and instead leaves them asking, “When am I ever going to use this?”<br />
<br />
Students want to know *why* they are learning certain material and how it might be relevant to them either in the present or near future. When my son first started learning fractions, I usually used two units in my explanations to bring it home better: snack food and money. However, as important as cookies and dollars are for a ten-year-old boy, they can only take you so far. Now that he’s headed toward high school, he really needs to see how what he’s learning today applies to his future. I often wish the story problems in the textbooks did a better job making the story problems relevant - that they would make them real.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.makeitreallearning.com/">Make It Real Learning</a> (MIRL) has tackled the “Why do we need to know this?” chant from math students and developed a <a href="http://www.makeitreallearning.com/library.htm">workbook series of activities</a> showing how math is needed in our every day lives.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SEmbYhMBVeM/UPYhTANQ1wI/AAAAAAAACC0/rIjXWRIWBRE/s1600-h/library_2%25255B2%25255D.png"><img alt="library_2" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Jb3P7INTJLc/UPYhTgVLnsI/AAAAAAAACC8/Lwxg_tybBsw/library_2_thumb.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="library_2" width="197" /></a><br />
<br />
I was sent the digital format of <a href="http://www.makeitreallearning.com/library.htm#lb2"><i>Activity Library Volume II</i></a>, targeted to grade level 3 through college, to review. There are eleven workbooks in <i>Volume II</i> with the following topics/titles:<br />
<ul>
<li>Arithmetic II </li>
<li>Fractions, Percents, Decimals III </li>
<li>Fractions, Percents, Decimals IV </li>
<li>Geometry I </li>
<li>Geometry II </li>
<li>Graphing & Other Algebra Skills I </li>
<li>Graphing & Other Algebra Skills II </li>
<li>Linear Functions III </li>
<li>Periodic & Piecewise II </li>
<li>Quadratic II </li>
<li>Sets, Probability, Statistics II</li>
</ul>
Each workbook includes ten activities, which are mapped to the <a href="http://www.corestandards.org/Math">Common Core State Standards for Mathematics</a>. Each activity is about two pages long and comprised of multiple questions based on a real-life scenario. The activities are ideal for 1-2 class periods of a traditional classroom. They can be done in groups or completed by as single student and are well suited for homeschooled students.<br />
<br />
All of the activity topics are high interest and should appeal to a broad range of students. The topics range from candy purchases to college tuition and beyond. Students will learn how math relates to music downloads, interest and savings, construction planning, travel expenses, sports, cooking, healthcare costs, gas prices, take home pay and even current events and concerns such as elections and autism awareness.<br />
<br />
The scenarios presented in the activities are drawn from real situations, real data, and even include links to actual websites and studies. For example, an activity about purchasing candy and calculating shipping costs from an online website includes a link to the website, the actual costs of the candy, and a copy of the shipping fee table.<br />
<br />
Make It Real Learning’s <i>Activity Volume II</i> does not contain actual lessons, detailed explanations, nor is it a complete curriculum. However, each activity is immediately followed by an answer key showing the steps in the solution, making it easy for the supervising parent or teacher. I appreciated not having to open a different file for the solutions and having the solutions readily available.<br />
<br />
To get a feel for the format and structure of the activities, there are <a href="http://sites.fastspring.com/makeitreallearning/product/free">20 free sample real-world math activities</a> available from <i>Volume I</i> and <i>II</i>.<br />
<br />
While there are some activities suitable for late elementary, I felt the majority of the activities were better suited for late middle school through high school grade levels. With an 8th grader and a 10th grader in my household, the level of the activities is about perfect for our family to use now and have plenty of material available for later.<br />
<br />
I always try to make math real for our kids as we live life, while we do home projects, bake and shop, or pay bills. However, I can’t always seamlessly align our experiences with what my kids happen to be learning in their math curriculum. With these activities targeting specific concepts, I think we’ll get plenty of use of this quick resource the next time my kids sigh and whine, “Why do I need to know this?” I’m looking forward to continuing to use this resource.<br />
<br />
<i>Activity Library Volume II</i> is available at the Make It Real Learning’s website as a <a href="http://www.makeitreallearning.com/library.htm#lb2">digital download</a> for $39.99 or as a <i>Volume I</i> and <i>II</i> bundle at a discounted price of $69.99 for the pair. If you prefer a hard copy, a <a href="http://www.lulu.com/shop/make-it-real-learning-company/make-it-real-learning-activity-library-volume-ii/paperback/product-20275608.html">print version</a> is available at Lulu for $54.99.<i> </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I received a free copy of product from Make It Real Learning in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. </i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This review contains affiliate links.<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></i></span>I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.</i></span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-800170706364664665.post-2209338729123533402012-12-27T23:12:00.001-05:002012-12-27T23:15:31.770-05:00Review: Growing Great Kids<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Ky8lUraMUu4/UN0cDUO8v7I/AAAAAAAACCY/QcbwYAYZO0k/s1600-h/book-200x300%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="book-200x300" border="0" alt="book-200x300" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-la88Y3Bgr3s/UN0cD_e4BsI/AAAAAAAACCg/piSA7xaFvCI/book-200x300_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <p>As a mom of a child who would love to take to the stage as a career choice, I was interested in what Kate Battistelli, mother to Dove Award-winning recording artist Francesca, had to say in her book <i>Growing Great Kids. </i>I had many questions, such as how was she sure this was God’s purpose for her daughter and how did she guide Francesca in such goals? <p>The following is an excerpt from the introduction pages which sums up the general gist of the book: <blockquote> <p><i>Successful adults don’t happen by accident. It takes intentional </i><i>effort to raise a child into an adult who has a strong sense </i><i>of their destiny in God, a passion to serve Him, and a deep </i><i>knowledge of His gifts and callings. Parents, we know our children </i><i>better than anyone else. By partnering with God we can </i><i>equip them to be all He called and created them to be. It’s up </i><i>to us to equip (not push or apply undue pressure) our children </i><i>to go after their dreams.</i></p></blockquote> <p>I learned a lot from Kate’s story, especially with her overall theme of the book of purposefully and intentional parenting and guiding. Much thought and prayer went into her guidance of her daughter and the focus was always on the greater plan. For example, when Francesca’s dream of becoming a dancer was thwarted because of scoliosis, years of dance lessons were not seen as a waste, but rather training for another purpose. Kate was also not afraid to have very large goals for her daughter and very specific prayers for those goals. It helped me see how focused Kate was, while at the same time her willingness to be redirected and reassured when a new path or obstacles came along. <p>Scripture relevant to the topics is used throughout the book. Also included are quotes from articles and research (those homeschooling will appreciate her comments on this) and well as comments and experiences directly from other parents. Each chapter, covering topics such as recognizing gifts, the power of words, prayer, and growing integrity, ends with a number of thought-provoking questions for reflection and a prayer. <p>Most people are not going to have the exact same set of circumstances in resources, number of children, or even talent in a particular area, but <i>Growing Great Kids </i>is not about duplicating goals of others. It is about helping your child discover <i>his or her</i> purpose. I needed reminding that both words and prayer are very powerful and most importantly, that God has a unique plan for my children. Rather than a book of “how to”, I considered this more a book of encouragement written from the heart. <p><em><font size="1">I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review as part of the CWA Review Crew. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. </font></em> Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03145310577732518535noreply@blogger.com0