An important part of the way we parent is to have regular date nights with our kids. We don't set an actual date or time frame but more read their barometer and do our best to have them before it starts to drop or more frequently during challenging times with particular children and atleast every few months with each child. We tend to take turns making sure they get special time with each of us.
Today was my turn with Rhiannon and we had a great night! In general on my date nights I try to give them freedom to direct the night as they want and try to say no as little as possible. Sometimes I offer suggestions or guidance and occasionaly say no as needed but all in all it is their night.
Rhiannon and I were joined tonight by Laura Felicity (her Felicity American girl doll that she also calls Laura for Laura Ingalls) throughout our date, which was cute and fun. We began at a yarn store picking out yarn for matching ponchos I am making her and her dolls (she also has an Elizabeth doll) - she picked purple because the Romans thought purple was for royalty and highly valued. She got to pick out a little treat as well and she picked a bag of shells and a container to hold them in. She also got a piece of candy as was estatic when I agreed to Bubble Gum Tape (6 feet - what was I thinking?!?!?!) which she opened immediately.
We then went to the library to return books and pick up some others. She choose the Kaya series from AG. We were there briefly and headed to a mall. There we ate dinner at a sub shop she really likes and then walked the mall. We went clothes shopping and she got to pick out a pretty peach dress, a skirt and a top. Then she rode one of those pay rides I never say yes to (this one was a roller coaster) she was excited. So far bubble gum, clothes of her choice, dinner at the restuarant of her choice, pop, and a pay ride, all usual no's from me.
We went up for some ice cream and then decided to watch a movie. We went to see RV with Robin Williams. There were funny moments, there were cheap joke moments but Rhiannon found it very funny and there were glimpses of my own life in there that made me laugh and sad at the same time. Blackberry's, families that IM to communicate, kids growing up fast, homeschooling (not world's best portrayal though atleast attempts to redeem itself), trying to find a wireless signal and connecting as a family. I am not going to say this is our life as our kids are still little and we have different family values, priorities and approaches but it had its funny moments. I'd say wait for the rental.
Still we had a nice fun time together. For once Rhiannon did not have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the movie and she even had a little kids pack of popcorn, pop and candy! So many treats for one day for her but a special time.
We had great conversations and hugs and laughs and smiles. She was able to be honest and share some things and I was able to give her complete undivided attention and my heart, mind, eyes, ears and hands focused just on her for a change. It was a time to fill up her love tank and I could tell by the end that we had and my own love tank was filled up in the process as well.
At one point tonight we were talking about school and she was hesitant to share with me I could tell. I told her she could tell the truth to me or to dad if she felt uncomfortable and after a deep breath she said "Well I don't want to hurt you or upset you and I think if I say I am unhappy or stressed with school that I am saying that you are a bad teacher and I don't want to say that or hurt or upset you." What a tender heart she has and how she represented the quandry many homeschool kids and parents can find themselves in as they navigate both grounds together. We talk of how hard it can be for a parent to be both a parent and a teacher but overlook how hard it can be for a kid to be both a child and a student of their parent. What ground they tread!
Our heart to heart went well from there and of course with reassurances that she is loved unconditionally no matter how she does at school or in anything. She was able to share how she really felt about some things and we moved on to subjects like friends, field trips she would like to see and her struggles with her siblings as well as the joys and victories of recent.
Date nights are so important for everyone involved. I was encouraged when we returned home and Rhiannon jumped up and gave Serona a huge pick me up and hug me daddy hug and thanked him for watching the other kids so she could have some special time with me.
At the end of the night she gave me big hugs and kisses and three seashells from her new treasure. Gift giving is important to her, her main love language. I have learned to cherish these treasures from the heart.
While tonight's date night was much larger and more expensive than a usual one it seemed to be what was called for in this particular situation with Rhiannon at this time. It seemed to be just what filled her tank while on another day it may just be getting an ice cream cone up the street and getting away for a half hour.
If you do not already have dates with your kids, make it a priority! It fills everyone's love tanks and reminds us all of what is special about each of us, parent and child.
Kiss and hug those kids!
Tenniel
April 30, 2006
April 28, 2006
Fort Sleeping
The kids are all sleeping in a giant fort they have constructed in our living room. They are falling asleep listening to books on tape inside their giant fort all together. Some childhood memories are truly priceless for both the children and the parents.
Peace,
Tenniel
Peace,
Tenniel
April 26, 2006
Mmmmm Diner
Yummy vegetarian fare. Tonight we are having Pasta with Baby Red Lentils and Ginger.
I will admit I have been in a cooking rut, not so much from scratch lately. But the smells that filled my kitchen as I prepared this and the joy of using individual fresh ingredients might have just wooed me back even with the extra time. Was easy to make, a bit of time involved, but short for the results.
Enjoy,
Tenniel
I will admit I have been in a cooking rut, not so much from scratch lately. But the smells that filled my kitchen as I prepared this and the joy of using individual fresh ingredients might have just wooed me back even with the extra time. Was easy to make, a bit of time involved, but short for the results.
Enjoy,
Tenniel
April 24, 2006
Amazing Reading
Rhiannon loves reading. It is quite possibly her favorite thing to do. She can be found with her nose in a book several times a day often at length. At first when she finished a book I did not believe that she really had. I feel terrible saying it but it is true. I mean she is 6 years old and she can read a Little House on the Prairie book or its equivalent over the course of a few days! I quizzed her about each chapter even down to little details that I thought she might have been breezing over and she always answered me right. I finally just believed her until today again.
We are going to see a theater production of Pippi Longstocking and I wanted her to know the story first. I was going to do it as a read aloud with her but added it to her weekly reading chart instead. She needs to read 30 minutes a day though she often reads much more. She sat down with the book and read the entire thing in one sitting. It is about a 140 page book. It includes some pictures and is a smaller sized book but still. I honestly did not believe her and quizzed her down to some very specific details and had her narrate parts of it. She knew all the details! Guess I need to stop second guessing her but it was hard to believe.
The funny thing was she really did not want to read this book. She has been resisting me for a week because she has been in the middle of the Mary Poppins series and wants to read nothing else until she is done. Normally I would just go with that but since we have the play coming up I insisted she read the book. She grudingly did and I knew she would love it. She laughed out loud and you could see she was really enjoying it. She asked me if there were other books written about Pippi and could I get them for her. Tonight she picked up her Mary Poppins series again (she is on the fourth book in the series) which she is also really enjoying.
As a family we currently have three read alouds going. The kids like having one special one that just dad reads (Serona actually does the voices) so his current book is Redwall. Then Ciaran and Sirah really fought about who gets to pick the next one so I agreed to work through two at the same time. So we are reading "The World of Pooh" by AA Milne (I just adore the artwork and the language and story yet again) and "Rogue Planet" - a star wars novel (which I do edit some as I read). We just finished off "A Horse and His Boy" and "Charlie and the Glass Elevator" for audio car books.
If you have a young daughter Rhiannon really recommends Mary Poppins and Pippi Longstocking, either to read herself or as a read aloud.
Peace,
Tenniel
We are going to see a theater production of Pippi Longstocking and I wanted her to know the story first. I was going to do it as a read aloud with her but added it to her weekly reading chart instead. She needs to read 30 minutes a day though she often reads much more. She sat down with the book and read the entire thing in one sitting. It is about a 140 page book. It includes some pictures and is a smaller sized book but still. I honestly did not believe her and quizzed her down to some very specific details and had her narrate parts of it. She knew all the details! Guess I need to stop second guessing her but it was hard to believe.
The funny thing was she really did not want to read this book. She has been resisting me for a week because she has been in the middle of the Mary Poppins series and wants to read nothing else until she is done. Normally I would just go with that but since we have the play coming up I insisted she read the book. She grudingly did and I knew she would love it. She laughed out loud and you could see she was really enjoying it. She asked me if there were other books written about Pippi and could I get them for her. Tonight she picked up her Mary Poppins series again (she is on the fourth book in the series) which she is also really enjoying.
As a family we currently have three read alouds going. The kids like having one special one that just dad reads (Serona actually does the voices) so his current book is Redwall. Then Ciaran and Sirah really fought about who gets to pick the next one so I agreed to work through two at the same time. So we are reading "The World of Pooh" by AA Milne (I just adore the artwork and the language and story yet again) and "Rogue Planet" - a star wars novel (which I do edit some as I read). We just finished off "A Horse and His Boy" and "Charlie and the Glass Elevator" for audio car books.
If you have a young daughter Rhiannon really recommends Mary Poppins and Pippi Longstocking, either to read herself or as a read aloud.
Peace,
Tenniel
T-Ball
Day one of t-ball. Temperature 45 degrees with a blustery and biting wind that had us all (Ciaran excepted) wearing full winter coats and gloves. This very day I had thought about packing them away but remembered it is just April in MN. It was a beautiful 75 yesterday.
Ciaran still did well. He is a lefty - but he can bat either way. He has very good coaches, patient people who obviously love the sport and love kids. He got a uniform and hat which he loved and worked on grounders, pop-flys, hitting off the tee and running the bases. He also got to try his hand at first base.
Ciaran is sometimes a literalist. When he was told to stay in his position (after trying to field a ball on the other side of the field) he literally stayed. A ball went two feet in front of him and he thought he could not move to get it. When the ball went past him at first (either because he missed or it was a bad throw) he thought he could not go retrieve it. His coaches told him to draw a line in the sand for batting and he drew an actual line. He was told to step and then throw and he literally steps, stops and then throws. Think we will be working on some nuances with him :) All in all a great first day of T-ball.
Though to be honest not sure the girls will attend all of the practices and games, two nights a week may be a bit much for them especially if the weather stays like this!!!
Ciaran still did well. He is a lefty - but he can bat either way. He has very good coaches, patient people who obviously love the sport and love kids. He got a uniform and hat which he loved and worked on grounders, pop-flys, hitting off the tee and running the bases. He also got to try his hand at first base.
Ciaran is sometimes a literalist. When he was told to stay in his position (after trying to field a ball on the other side of the field) he literally stayed. A ball went two feet in front of him and he thought he could not move to get it. When the ball went past him at first (either because he missed or it was a bad throw) he thought he could not go retrieve it. His coaches told him to draw a line in the sand for batting and he drew an actual line. He was told to step and then throw and he literally steps, stops and then throws. Think we will be working on some nuances with him :) All in all a great first day of T-ball.
Though to be honest not sure the girls will attend all of the practices and games, two nights a week may be a bit much for them especially if the weather stays like this!!!
April 21, 2006
Rhiannon's Project
Rhiannon had a heart to share with our neighbors today. She really wanted to tell them all that Jesus loves them but she wanted to do it in an anonymous way and she wanted to do it in a way that would not upset or offend anyone who did not want to believe in Jesus. She asked if she could make little posters or things to hang on the doors. How do I say no? So here is what she made and distributed by hanging on doors.
I just wanted to send you a little something
that tells you that Jesus loves you
and will always love you no matter what.
Have a great day because Jesus loves you!
I just wanted to send you a little something
that tells you that Jesus loves you
and will always love you no matter what.
Have a great day because Jesus loves you!
One Man Star Wars Review
Serona and I had a great date last night. We went to see One Man Star Wars in downtown Minneapolis at the Pantages theater. I surprised him with front row seats and he surprised me by not asking us to wear our full Jedi costumes! I was ready to but I must admit it was nice just being a normal fan instead of the full costumed fans we usually are! Plus being in the front row it was nice to just keep a low profile, a simple Star Wars t-shirt for him and a "I'm blogging this" t-shirt for me instead of full Jedi with lightsabers. So I said I was blogging this, so here you go.
For those unfamiliar with this show it is one man, Charles Ross, who acts out the entire original trilogy on stage. He is dressed all in black and with the exception of the use of some lighting tricks that is it, him all in black and his amazing talents acting out the trilogy, music, characters, lines and events from ANH, ESB, and ROTJ. You can see clips at his website, where you can also order tickets to upcoming shows.
We completely enjoyed the show. He was very funny and as fans who know the movies very well we were able to understand even the little things he did and the significance of facial expressions or seemingly small actions. I was thankful we were in the front row because we could see these little actions (like when he quivered his lip to represent Mon Monthma)and he ended up the floor of the stage often as well so we got the full experience.
Would I recommend the show? To someone who really likes star wars, hands down I would. You will laugh and you will enjoy it and you will get it all. He was very funny and captured the essence of the films well. To someone who sort of likes the films, I still would but would not call it a must see like I would for big fans. He was very entertaining and very funny, we laughed the whole night. However, the show is short (one hour total) and not cheap so you would need to consider that.
More specifics. The show was an hour, about 20 minutes on each film I would estimate. At our show he also ended with coming back out on stage and sharing some of his experiences and words of encouragement for the audience. Both Serona and I felt his strongest film was definitely "A New Hope" he really captured the characters and the events well. My only wish was that he represented R2D2 with atleast a quick sound at the awards ceremony at the end but he did do justice for Chewie which all fans want to see. We also agreed that the weakest of the three (though still good) was "Empire Strikes Back" - I think that film must be really hard to capture in this sort of shorter format because so much of the film is back and forth banter between the characters that builds and builds.
He definitely did the characters well and had funny ways to cue you to the character and represent who they were. I thought he did an excellent job with Tarkin and Luke. Serona really enjoyed his representation of Han and the attention he paid to detail (like when Luke throws down his lightsaber during the battle in ROTJ). We literally laughed for an hour. So if you are looking for a fun evening filled with good laughs and Star Wars I recommend One Man Star Wars by Charles Ross.
The show is pretty family friendly too, like the Star Wars films themselves. There are a few moments and gestures you might need to explain or deal with for younger kids like his way of representing Han's macho personality (as he grabs a certain part of his body briefly) and his way of expressing Han and Lukes emotions after Leia kisses them. Still I think it would be fine for kids to see. I would not bring my own because they are just too young to appreciate a single actor all in black doing the films and would miss too much. However, I would say a child around 10-12 age probably would appreciate and enjoy and understand what was going on. Much younger than that and you may need to explain things and miss enjoying it yourselves.
The demographic of our particular show was pretty varied. We are in our early thirties, sitting next to us were two guys either late 40's early 50's, a group of teenagers came together, three rows back was a guy in a mowhawk, parents were there with their kids, a few people in their 60's and a bunch in their 20's and 30's. The 501st had several storm troopers and others in costume greeting us at the theater. Of course the fans of star wars are a pretty diverse demographic as well.
At the end of the show Charles Ross came back out on stage and talked about how One Man Star Wars was born and encouraged us to pursue our strange hobbies and passions. He talked about performing at Celebration 3, big star wars convention a few months before the release of Revenge of the Sith. Having gone to Celebration 2 I could completely envision what he was expressing when he said he got to perform to the perfect audience for his show. Several thousand people, all big enough fans of Star Wars to show up at the convention, many costumed. While I imagine that would have been a fun, and loud venue to see him in, I am glad we saw him in this venue. I mean we had front row seats - which are pretty hard to come by at Celebration!
A great night for us. A recommendation for you. He is a talented man and the show is worth your money in my humble opinion. But then again we do this for fun!
Peace,
Tenniel
For those unfamiliar with this show it is one man, Charles Ross, who acts out the entire original trilogy on stage. He is dressed all in black and with the exception of the use of some lighting tricks that is it, him all in black and his amazing talents acting out the trilogy, music, characters, lines and events from ANH, ESB, and ROTJ. You can see clips at his website, where you can also order tickets to upcoming shows.
We completely enjoyed the show. He was very funny and as fans who know the movies very well we were able to understand even the little things he did and the significance of facial expressions or seemingly small actions. I was thankful we were in the front row because we could see these little actions (like when he quivered his lip to represent Mon Monthma)and he ended up the floor of the stage often as well so we got the full experience.
Would I recommend the show? To someone who really likes star wars, hands down I would. You will laugh and you will enjoy it and you will get it all. He was very funny and captured the essence of the films well. To someone who sort of likes the films, I still would but would not call it a must see like I would for big fans. He was very entertaining and very funny, we laughed the whole night. However, the show is short (one hour total) and not cheap so you would need to consider that.
More specifics. The show was an hour, about 20 minutes on each film I would estimate. At our show he also ended with coming back out on stage and sharing some of his experiences and words of encouragement for the audience. Both Serona and I felt his strongest film was definitely "A New Hope" he really captured the characters and the events well. My only wish was that he represented R2D2 with atleast a quick sound at the awards ceremony at the end but he did do justice for Chewie which all fans want to see. We also agreed that the weakest of the three (though still good) was "Empire Strikes Back" - I think that film must be really hard to capture in this sort of shorter format because so much of the film is back and forth banter between the characters that builds and builds.
He definitely did the characters well and had funny ways to cue you to the character and represent who they were. I thought he did an excellent job with Tarkin and Luke. Serona really enjoyed his representation of Han and the attention he paid to detail (like when Luke throws down his lightsaber during the battle in ROTJ). We literally laughed for an hour. So if you are looking for a fun evening filled with good laughs and Star Wars I recommend One Man Star Wars by Charles Ross.
The show is pretty family friendly too, like the Star Wars films themselves. There are a few moments and gestures you might need to explain or deal with for younger kids like his way of representing Han's macho personality (as he grabs a certain part of his body briefly) and his way of expressing Han and Lukes emotions after Leia kisses them. Still I think it would be fine for kids to see. I would not bring my own because they are just too young to appreciate a single actor all in black doing the films and would miss too much. However, I would say a child around 10-12 age probably would appreciate and enjoy and understand what was going on. Much younger than that and you may need to explain things and miss enjoying it yourselves.
The demographic of our particular show was pretty varied. We are in our early thirties, sitting next to us were two guys either late 40's early 50's, a group of teenagers came together, three rows back was a guy in a mowhawk, parents were there with their kids, a few people in their 60's and a bunch in their 20's and 30's. The 501st had several storm troopers and others in costume greeting us at the theater. Of course the fans of star wars are a pretty diverse demographic as well.
At the end of the show Charles Ross came back out on stage and talked about how One Man Star Wars was born and encouraged us to pursue our strange hobbies and passions. He talked about performing at Celebration 3, big star wars convention a few months before the release of Revenge of the Sith. Having gone to Celebration 2 I could completely envision what he was expressing when he said he got to perform to the perfect audience for his show. Several thousand people, all big enough fans of Star Wars to show up at the convention, many costumed. While I imagine that would have been a fun, and loud venue to see him in, I am glad we saw him in this venue. I mean we had front row seats - which are pretty hard to come by at Celebration!
A great night for us. A recommendation for you. He is a talented man and the show is worth your money in my humble opinion. But then again we do this for fun!
Peace,
Tenniel
April 18, 2006
Mamadala
Check out a great new blog, Hands Up in the Air by Mamadala! She has a great writing style and can make you laugh or cry depending on her mood and what she is sharing. Welcome her to the world of blogging!
In Him,
Tenniel
In Him,
Tenniel
Just Let Me Get My Crown
Sentences just uttered as we are walking out the door to pick up Serona:
Mom: Okay we are leaving now
Rhiannon: Okay just let me get my crown!
Perhaps it is not as funny as I write it. But it is fitting of first daughter who thinks she wears a tiara throughout life. I love her but sometimes she really thinks she is a princess and the world will wait as she "Just gets her crown!"
She is dressed in full dress up Princess Aurora crown and all to go pick up daddy.
Mom: Okay we are leaving now
Rhiannon: Okay just let me get my crown!
Perhaps it is not as funny as I write it. But it is fitting of first daughter who thinks she wears a tiara throughout life. I love her but sometimes she really thinks she is a princess and the world will wait as she "Just gets her crown!"
She is dressed in full dress up Princess Aurora crown and all to go pick up daddy.
Balancing it Out
Spring is a time of readjusting for us. Our family desires to be outside all the time, the end of school is lingering over us and the house is falling apart. Okay so it is not actually falling apart but let's say my stewardship level has fallen. I have to reasses my involvement in each thing I am doing and repriortize to open up more time for being outdoors.
In the winter blogging is very easy for me. I am trapped indoors with three kids and writing is a good outlet. The spring comes and I want to put down the computer and be outside more and more each day. Those days of transition are intersting as I try to rebalance and refocus and figure out how and when to do all that I want to do.
Balance, that is always the trick isn't it? Figuring out how to balance work and family, work and play, responsibility and fun. Balance is so tough and so important. We all need it, we all crave it and so rarely do we find it with any regularity. Balance with my kids, balance with my friends, balance with Serona and balance with my family.
There are so many great things to do, so many good opportunities. So many things I enjoy and I am blessed with talents in. How do you know where to focus and how to prioritize? How on earth am I supposed to teach this if I can't master it myself? Yet we press on and we juggle and we manage a way to hold all the balls up in the air and hope no one throws yet another one in there.
I have always been impressed by juggling. I was never good at the actually activity of juggling, though juggling responsibilities, priorities and people has been a lifestyle for me as I try to keep in balance and keep all those things going at the same time. Praying that my arms never tire and my judgement never falters. But of course it does and all the balls are affected as I decide which to drop to keep the others up in the air.
Well I am rambling now. Hope you have found a balance in your life. Pray I can find some in my own.
Peace,
Tenniel
In the winter blogging is very easy for me. I am trapped indoors with three kids and writing is a good outlet. The spring comes and I want to put down the computer and be outside more and more each day. Those days of transition are intersting as I try to rebalance and refocus and figure out how and when to do all that I want to do.
Balance, that is always the trick isn't it? Figuring out how to balance work and family, work and play, responsibility and fun. Balance is so tough and so important. We all need it, we all crave it and so rarely do we find it with any regularity. Balance with my kids, balance with my friends, balance with Serona and balance with my family.
There are so many great things to do, so many good opportunities. So many things I enjoy and I am blessed with talents in. How do you know where to focus and how to prioritize? How on earth am I supposed to teach this if I can't master it myself? Yet we press on and we juggle and we manage a way to hold all the balls up in the air and hope no one throws yet another one in there.
I have always been impressed by juggling. I was never good at the actually activity of juggling, though juggling responsibilities, priorities and people has been a lifestyle for me as I try to keep in balance and keep all those things going at the same time. Praying that my arms never tire and my judgement never falters. But of course it does and all the balls are affected as I decide which to drop to keep the others up in the air.
Well I am rambling now. Hope you have found a balance in your life. Pray I can find some in my own.
Peace,
Tenniel
April 17, 2006
We're Going to Disney World
I finally caved! We are going next month!
If you are a family member or a friend, Shhhhhh!!!!! We have not told the kids, it is a surprise.
Pray for my sanity and the kids to have a hoot!
If you are a family member or a friend, Shhhhhh!!!!! We have not told the kids, it is a surprise.
Pray for my sanity and the kids to have a hoot!
"Song for John" - June Carter Cash
Started as a poem to John, she added music to make this great song. One that makes me think of Serona. Thought I would share it with you.
I try to remember the things that are precious to you, and I'd give you money if that would do. But money won't do it, that's not your way. Your money's been for givin' away. Now if you precede me and go to your grave, and the angels knock the clouds about when Jesus comes to save, I'll be standing there to rise with you and go up as you do. And I'll always love you, you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
So I'll let my hair down 'cause that's the way you like it. And I'll keep myself neat and nice for you, and I'll have good food on your table, and I will keep your house in order. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
And I'll pray for you, for your wisdom and understanding and your charity. And even if you've been wrong, and I've known it, you've always been right, because that's God's order. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
And I will smile for you and I'll be kind, and I'll love your babies just as I have loved mine. And when I could give you nothing, God blessed me and gave you a son. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
I try to remember the things that are precious to you, and I'd give you money if that would do. But money won't do it, that's not your way. Your money's been for givin' away. Now if you precede me and go to your grave, and the angels knock the clouds about when Jesus comes to save, I'll be standing there to rise with you and go up as you do. And I'll always love you, you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
So I'll let my hair down 'cause that's the way you like it. And I'll keep myself neat and nice for you, and I'll have good food on your table, and I will keep your house in order. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
And I'll pray for you, for your wisdom and understanding and your charity. And even if you've been wrong, and I've known it, you've always been right, because that's God's order. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
And I will smile for you and I'll be kind, and I'll love your babies just as I have loved mine. And when I could give you nothing, God blessed me and gave you a son. And I'll always love you and you'll always be mine. Forever and always, till the end of time. Till the mountains split open with the weight of the sun. We'll rise up together....as one.
April 13, 2006
April 11, 2006
First Frogs of the Season and Homeschooling
Well life as my family knows it has now changed for the next few months. Tonight I heard the first frog or toad calls of the season. Ciaran would know which frog or toad made the sound but not me :) He was already asleep which is about the only thing that saved us from putting boots on, finding flashlights and going out that very moment if he knew the first frogs and toads were out.
For anyone new to the blog you will quickly understand that my son Ciaran REALLY loves frogs. I mean really and we get really into them. There is not a doubt in my mind, weather permitting, that we will be out and about on a frog hunt in the morning or early afternoon of tomorrow. He has been asking since there was still snow on the ground when we the first frogs were coming. It is not nearly descriptive to say he will be very excited at the news tomorrow.
So the next few months will be filled with frogs, toads and other slimy and furry creatures that Ciaran manages to catch and find. Last year he caught a baby duck who was injured and numerous frogs, toads, worms, grasshoppers and other little critters. What will this year bring?
We filled the bird feeders and tonight's news was about the swallows that are apparently building a nest in our tree and there are many robins all around. The arrival of these little animals and the wonderful weather we have been having, the sounds of frogs at evening and being able to leave the windows open are truly wonderful features of spring!
Spring brings so many opportunities to school in nature. The nature notebooks come back out, the field guides and books on animals and just being in nature and experiencing it. Lessons about God and his creation are a natural follow up to all the awe and wonder going on at creation all around them. Science is easy as we watch the circle of life in birds, butterflies, frogs, and so many other critters. We watch the ice melt to ponds and lakes and see the fish begin to swim again. We feel and see the changes in season. We witness the natural blooming of flowers from a silent buried plant to something green, to buds to full blooms.
Somehow PE time is so easy and fun as bicycles, skateboards, scooters, baseball mitts and balls of every kind come out and begged to be used all day. Impromptu kickball, hide and seek, freeze tag and other running games are played by kids all around.
Spring may be the easiest, and the hardest season for homeschooling. Easy because everything around you is truly an easy lesson in itself. Tough because the call of playtime and leisure is so loud. Easy because you submerge yourself in learning all around you. Tough because you never want to come inside or do anything else. In balance it definitely comes out on the easier side for us. So you adapt and you go with the flow but the real life learning and passions sparked during this season are truly wondrous things that do far more to encourage and solidify learning and knowledge and a passion for them than any book or serious study ever could.
Soon we start our frog lessons, we start our flower lessons and we continue learning through life. In the end we are trying to raise life long learners who have a passion for learning, knowledge and wisdom. Also children who love the Lord and the wonderful world he created. What better way to close this post then in the nightly words of my dear son Ciaran. This is a prayer from his heart and it shows a glimpse into it. There is nothing rote about this prayer, though he says it every night he means it every time. Every night since he was two years old and started praying Ciaran begins his prayer with the following:
"Thank you God for all things good in this wonderful world."
For anyone new to the blog you will quickly understand that my son Ciaran REALLY loves frogs. I mean really and we get really into them. There is not a doubt in my mind, weather permitting, that we will be out and about on a frog hunt in the morning or early afternoon of tomorrow. He has been asking since there was still snow on the ground when we the first frogs were coming. It is not nearly descriptive to say he will be very excited at the news tomorrow.
So the next few months will be filled with frogs, toads and other slimy and furry creatures that Ciaran manages to catch and find. Last year he caught a baby duck who was injured and numerous frogs, toads, worms, grasshoppers and other little critters. What will this year bring?
We filled the bird feeders and tonight's news was about the swallows that are apparently building a nest in our tree and there are many robins all around. The arrival of these little animals and the wonderful weather we have been having, the sounds of frogs at evening and being able to leave the windows open are truly wonderful features of spring!
Spring brings so many opportunities to school in nature. The nature notebooks come back out, the field guides and books on animals and just being in nature and experiencing it. Lessons about God and his creation are a natural follow up to all the awe and wonder going on at creation all around them. Science is easy as we watch the circle of life in birds, butterflies, frogs, and so many other critters. We watch the ice melt to ponds and lakes and see the fish begin to swim again. We feel and see the changes in season. We witness the natural blooming of flowers from a silent buried plant to something green, to buds to full blooms.
Somehow PE time is so easy and fun as bicycles, skateboards, scooters, baseball mitts and balls of every kind come out and begged to be used all day. Impromptu kickball, hide and seek, freeze tag and other running games are played by kids all around.
Spring may be the easiest, and the hardest season for homeschooling. Easy because everything around you is truly an easy lesson in itself. Tough because the call of playtime and leisure is so loud. Easy because you submerge yourself in learning all around you. Tough because you never want to come inside or do anything else. In balance it definitely comes out on the easier side for us. So you adapt and you go with the flow but the real life learning and passions sparked during this season are truly wondrous things that do far more to encourage and solidify learning and knowledge and a passion for them than any book or serious study ever could.
Soon we start our frog lessons, we start our flower lessons and we continue learning through life. In the end we are trying to raise life long learners who have a passion for learning, knowledge and wisdom. Also children who love the Lord and the wonderful world he created. What better way to close this post then in the nightly words of my dear son Ciaran. This is a prayer from his heart and it shows a glimpse into it. There is nothing rote about this prayer, though he says it every night he means it every time. Every night since he was two years old and started praying Ciaran begins his prayer with the following:
"Thank you God for all things good in this wonderful world."
Homeschool Planning Resources
Well it is that time of year again, homeschool conferences, planning for next years curriculum and finalizing schedules. I thought it a good time to remind you of the great free resources that Donna Young provides. She has many free printables for schedules, planners, calendars and other great planning helpers. Check it out as you plan for next year.
Tenniel
Tenniel
Spring Fever in Homeschooling
We are in the throes of spring fever and the desire to be outside all the time. A common struggle for many homeschoolers I imagine. It also brings home the reality that we need to finish up school because it is only going to get harder each day.
So far we have been using the good weather as motivation. We have found ourselves done with school around 11am each day so we can be outside the rest of the day. Sometimes we stop and take a break in the middle of the day and then get back to school in the afternoon after we have had several hours outside.
I am thankful we homeschool on days like yesterday. As the weather hit over 70 yesterday we were outside by 11am and took a walk and spent the afternoon outside. We came home and took some rest time and Rhia finished up one last subject and then it was back outside to play with the neighbors until dinner time. I headed back outside after the kids were in bed to relax and read on my deck in the cool breeze.
How does spring affect your homeschool? What are strategies you use?
Peace,
Tenniel
So far we have been using the good weather as motivation. We have found ourselves done with school around 11am each day so we can be outside the rest of the day. Sometimes we stop and take a break in the middle of the day and then get back to school in the afternoon after we have had several hours outside.
I am thankful we homeschool on days like yesterday. As the weather hit over 70 yesterday we were outside by 11am and took a walk and spent the afternoon outside. We came home and took some rest time and Rhia finished up one last subject and then it was back outside to play with the neighbors until dinner time. I headed back outside after the kids were in bed to relax and read on my deck in the cool breeze.
How does spring affect your homeschool? What are strategies you use?
Peace,
Tenniel
April 10, 2006
Kids, kids and more kids
We have a lot of kids in our neighborhood. As I type this sitting out on my deck there are over 20 running around just in front of my house and the two nearby neighbors. Many ages, birth to about 14 or so I think. All girls and my little Ciaran, the only boy in the neighborhood, but he just joins right in whatever they are doing. Parents are getting home from work and staying outside to enjoy the gorgeous 70 degree day we are having. Cars are actually paying attention and slowing down as they drive past all these kids running around and playing and the kids are doing a fairly reasonable job staying out of the street.
Ciaran and Rhia are right over in the thick of it. Sirah is right here next to me exploring rocks and drawing pictures with chalk and pushing around the stroller and her little car. The dogs are barking with frustration at not being a part of the chaos and fun. What a perfect way to spend an afternoon and early evening. A simple quick stir fry for dinner, we walked to the store to get fresh veggies and we will eat outside. Best time to do it, weather is nice and their are no bugs to speak of. We have spent so much time cooped up indoors that it is wonderful to feel the sun and breeze and enjoy the neighborhood.
Time to put the computer down and play with Sirah,
Tenniel
Ciaran and Rhia are right over in the thick of it. Sirah is right here next to me exploring rocks and drawing pictures with chalk and pushing around the stroller and her little car. The dogs are barking with frustration at not being a part of the chaos and fun. What a perfect way to spend an afternoon and early evening. A simple quick stir fry for dinner, we walked to the store to get fresh veggies and we will eat outside. Best time to do it, weather is nice and their are no bugs to speak of. We have spent so much time cooped up indoors that it is wonderful to feel the sun and breeze and enjoy the neighborhood.
Time to put the computer down and play with Sirah,
Tenniel
Yield to Pedestrians?
Does this concept exist anymore? It is very frustrating when walking or biking with three children across streets and no one yields to pedestrians. I don't have my kids try to cross in front of cars, against lights or anything like that. We push the button, wait patiently on the curb and enter the street when we have our pedestrian light. But people do not stop! They do not yield, most of the time they don't even look! They are too busy talking on their cell phone, or revving for the light to change to even glance at the sidewalk. Twice in our short walk today I had to yank my kids back up on the sidewalk after we had started into the crosswalk because someone did not pay attention at all. It is exasperating and dangerous! It also sends a terrible message to my kids - that people will not even let them cross the street when it is their turn. I understand most people drive in suburbia and their is more respect for walkers in more urban areas but the law is the same wherever you are.
Just needing to vent. Hope it is better where you live.
Tenniel
Just needing to vent. Hope it is better where you live.
Tenniel
April 6, 2006
Illustrated Bible Sample
Rhiannon did a great job on this illustration of the story of the birth of Jesus. She really took her time and drew everything herself. She paid close attention to detail and is proud of this work Unfortunately the scan does not really do it justice. Her detail on the horse and Mary especially shows marked improvement in her artistic talent.
April 5, 2006
Out of Hibernation and Other Important and Silly Moments
Today was another beautiful day here. It was a good day all around. We slept in a bit with a big cuddle all together on the bed. Up for breakfast, reading some storybooks and then started school. Everyone was on task for the most part as the incentive of going outside was high. We stopped for lunch and it became clear the younger two were crabby and needed a nap. We all took a two hour nap!!!!
Upon waking up we headed outside. The kids were very disappointed that I could not get their bikes down from the pegs in the rafters of our garage. I could not manage to balance on the big ladder and handle lifting the weight of the bike up and around the hooks to get the bikes down. They had to settle for a walk, though Ciaran did have his scooter and he even let Rhiannon take a few turns on it.
We brought a garbage bag because on our last walk Rhiannon realized how much trash had been uncovered with the melting of the snow and all my kids have a heart for stewardship and God's creation. We spent the next hour walking around our neighborhood and up to a local pond and park picking up trash as we went along. We ran out of room in our kitchen sized trash bag and were sad to pass more along the way. Still we had filled an entire trash bag - all the kids helped and were enthusiastic about it.
I was especially proud of Rhiannon. At one point she saw several of her neighborhood friends playing together and jumping on a trampoline and I was all ready for her to ask to join them. She didn't she just stopped and looked at them and then continued picking up the trash. I wondered what went through her head but she seemed to not want to talk and we continued with our task.
A few moments later a woman in her late 60's I would guess came up looking for her dog who we had just stopped as he greeted us. She saw us with the trash bag and smiled. She asked me if I was teaching the kids about citizenship today. I smiled and said yes they were being good citizens and stewards. Had our paths crossed longer I would have shared that it was my 6 year olds heart that led us to do it, not my motherly wisdom. Still she saw a family picking up trash from the park.
We hiked down through brush and mud and cleaned up along the shoreline of the pond, even fished a few things out, we walked down and up a hill and once the bag could hold no more walked over to the playground to place it in the trash bin and then play at the park for awhile.
Spring has definitely sprung here in Minnesota. My neighbor said it is like we are all like bears out of hibernation. It is true I saw more of my neighbors today than I probably have all winter long! The kids were all out playing, the parents out talking in little groups, everyone seemed to just be outside for reasons and no reasons alike. The park was packed it was actually a bit overwhelming for my kids who are used to arriving to an empty park. There were kids and parents biking, walking, playing basketball and just standing in driveways and on lawns.
We spent as long as we could outside. Stopping over to see some neighbors on our way home. The kids ran through the yard and rode their bikes and scooters and the parents talked and commented about how much older everyone's kids seemed. We caught up on events since last October, sad I know, but it happens here. It is as if life was on hold for a bit and it all just picked up right in the middle today.
We eventually had to head inside for dinner and the kids getting ready for their Wed night program. Sirah and I took advantage of the free time and met a friend and went for yet another walk outside. This one might actually count as exercise for me. My friend's three kids joined us on bikes and hot wheels and Sirah in a stroller we walked around her neighborhood and a nearby wooded path, chatting and enjoying the good weather. It was a wonderful way to end the evening.
When the kids arrived home it was baths, stories and bedtime. A giant sleepover tonight, everyone in our room. We said prayers and then everyone got to tell a funny story they made up. Glimpses into their hearts and minds are always fun. Rhiannon's tale was about a young maiden (her words) that is offered a coin by a young man, she refuses but can not stop thinking about him. A few days later she accepts his coin and his offer of marriage.
Ciaran's tale was a rather inventive one about an ordinary snake looking for some food. Each time he comes upon some food it does something strange. The cucumber walked away, the apple turned into a rat, another item ran away and something jumped out of the trees. It was very inventive and funny. Sirah's story was a 2 year old's story about a snake (because Ciaran's had been) and about eyeballs and eyebrows (which she thanked God for during her prayer time) and a few other random things thrown in.
I am almost ashamed to write my own story here. I need to give some context first. We had a stomach bug going on in the beginning of the week and all three kids have been struggling with uncontrollable and terrible gas. It has been embarrassing, tough for them and rather stinky in our home truth be told. They were all a bit embarrassed about it as we were all sleeping in the same room so I decided to made them laugh and relax.
So anyway my story was about a family who could not stop tooting and they filled their house with so much gas that it lifted up into outer space and eventually exploded. Everyone jumped out in time and luckily their gas saved them. For each time they had another toot it brought them back down further and further to Earth. By the time they all landed they had no more gas in them. The kids were cracking up the whole time and everyone seemed a bit more relaxed. So there my secret is out you now know that I can have a potty humor side too.
Well everyone is asleep now and I must be off to bed myself. I am leaving a sink full of dishes, undone laundry, and plenty of clutter to pick up throughout the house. But I have three content and happy children, love tanks that were filled up, a beautiful fun filled day outside, a cleaner neighborhood, and a full heart myself. Hope your day was as fun as ours.
Tenniel
Upon waking up we headed outside. The kids were very disappointed that I could not get their bikes down from the pegs in the rafters of our garage. I could not manage to balance on the big ladder and handle lifting the weight of the bike up and around the hooks to get the bikes down. They had to settle for a walk, though Ciaran did have his scooter and he even let Rhiannon take a few turns on it.
We brought a garbage bag because on our last walk Rhiannon realized how much trash had been uncovered with the melting of the snow and all my kids have a heart for stewardship and God's creation. We spent the next hour walking around our neighborhood and up to a local pond and park picking up trash as we went along. We ran out of room in our kitchen sized trash bag and were sad to pass more along the way. Still we had filled an entire trash bag - all the kids helped and were enthusiastic about it.
I was especially proud of Rhiannon. At one point she saw several of her neighborhood friends playing together and jumping on a trampoline and I was all ready for her to ask to join them. She didn't she just stopped and looked at them and then continued picking up the trash. I wondered what went through her head but she seemed to not want to talk and we continued with our task.
A few moments later a woman in her late 60's I would guess came up looking for her dog who we had just stopped as he greeted us. She saw us with the trash bag and smiled. She asked me if I was teaching the kids about citizenship today. I smiled and said yes they were being good citizens and stewards. Had our paths crossed longer I would have shared that it was my 6 year olds heart that led us to do it, not my motherly wisdom. Still she saw a family picking up trash from the park.
We hiked down through brush and mud and cleaned up along the shoreline of the pond, even fished a few things out, we walked down and up a hill and once the bag could hold no more walked over to the playground to place it in the trash bin and then play at the park for awhile.
Spring has definitely sprung here in Minnesota. My neighbor said it is like we are all like bears out of hibernation. It is true I saw more of my neighbors today than I probably have all winter long! The kids were all out playing, the parents out talking in little groups, everyone seemed to just be outside for reasons and no reasons alike. The park was packed it was actually a bit overwhelming for my kids who are used to arriving to an empty park. There were kids and parents biking, walking, playing basketball and just standing in driveways and on lawns.
We spent as long as we could outside. Stopping over to see some neighbors on our way home. The kids ran through the yard and rode their bikes and scooters and the parents talked and commented about how much older everyone's kids seemed. We caught up on events since last October, sad I know, but it happens here. It is as if life was on hold for a bit and it all just picked up right in the middle today.
We eventually had to head inside for dinner and the kids getting ready for their Wed night program. Sirah and I took advantage of the free time and met a friend and went for yet another walk outside. This one might actually count as exercise for me. My friend's three kids joined us on bikes and hot wheels and Sirah in a stroller we walked around her neighborhood and a nearby wooded path, chatting and enjoying the good weather. It was a wonderful way to end the evening.
When the kids arrived home it was baths, stories and bedtime. A giant sleepover tonight, everyone in our room. We said prayers and then everyone got to tell a funny story they made up. Glimpses into their hearts and minds are always fun. Rhiannon's tale was about a young maiden (her words) that is offered a coin by a young man, she refuses but can not stop thinking about him. A few days later she accepts his coin and his offer of marriage.
Ciaran's tale was a rather inventive one about an ordinary snake looking for some food. Each time he comes upon some food it does something strange. The cucumber walked away, the apple turned into a rat, another item ran away and something jumped out of the trees. It was very inventive and funny. Sirah's story was a 2 year old's story about a snake (because Ciaran's had been) and about eyeballs and eyebrows (which she thanked God for during her prayer time) and a few other random things thrown in.
I am almost ashamed to write my own story here. I need to give some context first. We had a stomach bug going on in the beginning of the week and all three kids have been struggling with uncontrollable and terrible gas. It has been embarrassing, tough for them and rather stinky in our home truth be told. They were all a bit embarrassed about it as we were all sleeping in the same room so I decided to made them laugh and relax.
So anyway my story was about a family who could not stop tooting and they filled their house with so much gas that it lifted up into outer space and eventually exploded. Everyone jumped out in time and luckily their gas saved them. For each time they had another toot it brought them back down further and further to Earth. By the time they all landed they had no more gas in them. The kids were cracking up the whole time and everyone seemed a bit more relaxed. So there my secret is out you now know that I can have a potty humor side too.
Well everyone is asleep now and I must be off to bed myself. I am leaving a sink full of dishes, undone laundry, and plenty of clutter to pick up throughout the house. But I have three content and happy children, love tanks that were filled up, a beautiful fun filled day outside, a cleaner neighborhood, and a full heart myself. Hope your day was as fun as ours.
Tenniel
Goodbye Darth Vader: Reflections on Tonsillectomy
Nope this has nothing to do with the movies, rather with Rhiannon. As she sleeps next to me I realized that her Darth Vader breathing and heavy snoring are completely gone! I mean she is silent now. I feel like a mom of a newborn again as I place a hand on her chest to feel it rise and fall she is so still.
Rhiannon's tonsillectomy was rough. It was not the simple surgery we thought it would be. She had complications, vomiting, high fever, dehydration, three weeks of sickness, pneumonia and so on. But still for all that she went through over the course of that tough month I am thankful we did the surgery. She rests so much more peacefully. She can actually sleep through the night now, she never did before I just thought she was a bad sleeper but really her tonsils were making it tough.
She is no longer getting tonsillitis with terrible sore throats every 2-3 weeks. Her voice has changed a bit and she is learning to talk without the adnoids and tonsils in there she sounds younger and clearer. But laying next to her makes me realize just how much she gained from this surgery. She is sleeping so peacefully and as a mom it is wonderful to see. So despite the difficulties she experienced post surgery it was definitely the right choice for her.
Sharing random thoughts,
Tenniel
Rhiannon's tonsillectomy was rough. It was not the simple surgery we thought it would be. She had complications, vomiting, high fever, dehydration, three weeks of sickness, pneumonia and so on. But still for all that she went through over the course of that tough month I am thankful we did the surgery. She rests so much more peacefully. She can actually sleep through the night now, she never did before I just thought she was a bad sleeper but really her tonsils were making it tough.
She is no longer getting tonsillitis with terrible sore throats every 2-3 weeks. Her voice has changed a bit and she is learning to talk without the adnoids and tonsils in there she sounds younger and clearer. But laying next to her makes me realize just how much she gained from this surgery. She is sleeping so peacefully and as a mom it is wonderful to see. So despite the difficulties she experienced post surgery it was definitely the right choice for her.
Sharing random thoughts,
Tenniel
01:02:03 04/05/06 Timestamp
Strange things are afoot at the Circle-K.
We shall not see this again for 100 years. Did you sleep through it?
We shall not see this again for 100 years. Did you sleep through it?
April 4, 2006
Spring Moments
I love these spring days - we actually got over 50 today and it felt WONDERFUL! The kids and I headed up to the library. We got some books and then headed for a walk around our downtown area. We stopped in at a store and the kids each got to pick out a little toy. Sirah picked an Audobon bird, the kind that make the actual animal sounds, Rhiannon a princess from the knight series and Ciaran a paratrooper with parachute. We also picked up The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe which came out on DVD today. I treated the kids to a slushie drink and a big pretzel.
Mostly we had fun being outside. We explored the new grass growing under the dead grass, saw our first birds nest, explored rocks, climbed hills and ran in the grass. We played ring around the rosey and sat and watched the sunset. We talked about the clouds and wondered at God's creation. Rhiannon asked for a moment alone and she got down on her knees and prayed, she was really in awe of his creation today. The kind of moments you just want to bottle.
It was fun walking hand in hand with the kids and just being outside again. I am a much better mommy when the weather is nice. I really come alive much more and we just have a lot more fun. We enjoy exploring the world together and it is so much easier to do outside! We smiled, we laughed, we were silly, we were explorers, we held hands and we were goofy at times. People kept smiling at us as they passed by in their cars or a few on foot.
Tommorrow the kids vowed we need to get a garbage bag and go around town picking up trash. It is amazing how much stuff was hiding under all that snow and how much needs to be cleaned up. I am glad I have kids who have a sensitive heart for that, of course they come from "tree huggers" so I suppose I should not be shocked!
Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather if you have some of it now! We are supposed to reach the 60's tommorrow! I can hardly believe it but look forward to it.
Tenniel
Mostly we had fun being outside. We explored the new grass growing under the dead grass, saw our first birds nest, explored rocks, climbed hills and ran in the grass. We played ring around the rosey and sat and watched the sunset. We talked about the clouds and wondered at God's creation. Rhiannon asked for a moment alone and she got down on her knees and prayed, she was really in awe of his creation today. The kind of moments you just want to bottle.
It was fun walking hand in hand with the kids and just being outside again. I am a much better mommy when the weather is nice. I really come alive much more and we just have a lot more fun. We enjoy exploring the world together and it is so much easier to do outside! We smiled, we laughed, we were silly, we were explorers, we held hands and we were goofy at times. People kept smiling at us as they passed by in their cars or a few on foot.
Tommorrow the kids vowed we need to get a garbage bag and go around town picking up trash. It is amazing how much stuff was hiding under all that snow and how much needs to be cleaned up. I am glad I have kids who have a sensitive heart for that, of course they come from "tree huggers" so I suppose I should not be shocked!
Get out and enjoy the beautiful weather if you have some of it now! We are supposed to reach the 60's tommorrow! I can hardly believe it but look forward to it.
Tenniel
Some Inspiration
I Can't Wait
by Sara Groves and Don Chaffer
When you reach the proper age
I will teach you to read and you can turn the pages
How to dress and tie your shoes
Your one plus ones, and your two times two's
And you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important things
And all that i have lost along the way
And I can't wait
As you grow, I'll show you things
How to ride your bike and kick your legs out on the swings
To fold your hands and bow your head
How to say your prayers before you go to bed
And you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important things
And all that I have lost along the way
And I can't wait
How do you sleep so peacefully?
How do you trust unflinchingly?
How do you love so faithfully?
How do you dance so joyfully?
Oh you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important (essential) things
And all that i have lost along the way
And I can't
No I can't
Come teach me
Of love and dreams
And all the most essential thing
And all that I have lost along the way
Cause I can't wait
Purchase this CD at Sara Groves.com.
Tenniel
by Sara Groves and Don Chaffer
When you reach the proper age
I will teach you to read and you can turn the pages
How to dress and tie your shoes
Your one plus ones, and your two times two's
And you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important things
And all that i have lost along the way
And I can't wait
As you grow, I'll show you things
How to ride your bike and kick your legs out on the swings
To fold your hands and bow your head
How to say your prayers before you go to bed
And you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important things
And all that I have lost along the way
And I can't wait
How do you sleep so peacefully?
How do you trust unflinchingly?
How do you love so faithfully?
How do you dance so joyfully?
Oh you'll teach me
Of hearts and dreams
And all the most important (essential) things
And all that i have lost along the way
And I can't
No I can't
Come teach me
Of love and dreams
And all the most essential thing
And all that I have lost along the way
Cause I can't wait
Purchase this CD at Sara Groves.com.
Tenniel
April 2, 2006
Two Year curriculm
When I purchased our different curriculum books this year I knew it was possible I would use them for two years - I am happy to say that we still like them enough to use them next year, with a few modifications.
Here is what we have been using this year:
Reading - various classics, legends, folktales and historical fiction
Math - Miquon orange and red workbooks
Copywork - bible verses, poetry and cursive handwriting practice
Phonics - Phonics Pathways (which we gave up mid year once reading well)
Language Arts - First Language Lessons
Spelling - online age appropriate spelling list
Bible - My Father's World bible, the picture bible and making an illustrated bible
History - Story of the World Vol I
Science - old classic style science texts, Christian Liberty Nature Readers, nature journal
Music - studying works of one composer per quarter (Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven)
Art - study works of a great artist per quarter (Monet, Van Gogh, Cassat)
Next Years Curriculum Plan
Reading - Ambleside Online Year Two Books
Math - Miquon blue and green workbooks
Copywork - bible verses, poetry and cursive handwriting practice
Phonics - possibly Explode the Code
Language Arts - First Language Lessons
Bible - Karen Henley's Story Bible
History - Story of the World Vol II
Science - possibly Apologia Creation through Botany, nature journal
Music - studying works of one composer per quarter (TBD)
Instrument - begin one (TBD)
Art - study works of a great artist per quarter (TBD), beginner art techniques
Latin -
So I am happy with the choices we made and it makes planning next year quite easy since we will just keep following the same format for the most part. We are getting our money's worth out of the books we choose and still look forward to working with them next year. Just thought I would share what has been working for our family.
Peace,
Tenniel
Here is what we have been using this year:
Reading - various classics, legends, folktales and historical fiction
Math - Miquon orange and red workbooks
Copywork - bible verses, poetry and cursive handwriting practice
Phonics - Phonics Pathways (which we gave up mid year once reading well)
Language Arts - First Language Lessons
Spelling - online age appropriate spelling list
Bible - My Father's World bible, the picture bible and making an illustrated bible
History - Story of the World Vol I
Science - old classic style science texts, Christian Liberty Nature Readers, nature journal
Music - studying works of one composer per quarter (Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven)
Art - study works of a great artist per quarter (Monet, Van Gogh, Cassat)
Next Years Curriculum Plan
Reading - Ambleside Online Year Two Books
Math - Miquon blue and green workbooks
Copywork - bible verses, poetry and cursive handwriting practice
Phonics - possibly Explode the Code
Language Arts - First Language Lessons
Bible - Karen Henley's Story Bible
History - Story of the World Vol II
Science - possibly Apologia Creation through Botany, nature journal
Music - studying works of one composer per quarter (TBD)
Instrument - begin one (TBD)
Art - study works of a great artist per quarter (TBD), beginner art techniques
Latin -
So I am happy with the choices we made and it makes planning next year quite easy since we will just keep following the same format for the most part. We are getting our money's worth out of the books we choose and still look forward to working with them next year. Just thought I would share what has been working for our family.
Peace,
Tenniel
Curriculum Feedback
I am contemplating Explode the Code and Apologia Science for next year. Has anyone used these and have any feedback?
Peace,
Tenniel
Peace,
Tenniel
March 29, 2006
Music Recommendation
A friend recently introduced me to the CD Station Wagon by Sara Groves. It is truly a great cd for parents. Similar in sound and style to Sara Mclachlan, this Christian singer has great lyrics and a powerful voice. This particular CD is only available at her website or her concerts. You can listen to clips and view lyrics before purchasing.
Slow to buy cd's since I use streaming music this is one I am thankful I have. Will listen to on my computers and will be my car cd. AS if I ever get a chance to listen to my music in the car, we are currently on Charlie and the Glass Elevator. Thanks Mamadala!
In Him,
Tenniel
Slow to buy cd's since I use streaming music this is one I am thankful I have. Will listen to on my computers and will be my car cd. AS if I ever get a chance to listen to my music in the car, we are currently on Charlie and the Glass Elevator. Thanks Mamadala!
In Him,
Tenniel
March 27, 2006
A glimpse into Ciaran
I realized that Ciaran's birthday presents this year offer a real glimpse into the boy he is. We are giving him a West African Balaphon, two meaningful books, a homemade fireman's hat and pair of mittens, a sketchbook and pencils, and some star wars toys.
The balaphon represents his love of music and his increasing desire to learn. He truly wants to learn an instrument and wants something of his own. We saw this and thought of him. Not the typical first instrument but somehow it fits him just right.
The fireman's hat was originally going to be chainmail but somehow this was the project I ended up knitting. It fits his love of dress up and being a hero. Hours of imaginary play and protecting his sisters and me to follow.
The mittens were a last minute project done just this past weekend. His is starting ice skating lessons tomorrow and needed another pair of mittens, ones that were flexible but warm, I decided a felted pair of mittens would do the trick.
The star wars toys represent his fun side and his love of playing but also a special connection and relationship with his dad who loves star wars. It is a move into boyhood and sharing those connections with daddy.
He also got a baseball bat and mitt a few weeks ago on a special daddy date and he can't wait for the snow to melt so he can try out his new sports equipment and also his skateboard. The skateboard and ice skating are clear Olympics influences.
The sketchbook and pencils go hand in hand with one of the books (The Raft) he is receiving and are a link between his love of drawing, learning and nature. Creating his own special "nature notebook" and his observations on God's creation that he has a special bond with.
The last two gifts are perhaps the most important ones for me to give him and really show his personality right now. Typically we buy one special book for their birthday each year but this year I could not decide between two and bought them both. I wrote an inscription inside each book and I will share it here. The inscriptions relate both to the books and my son. To the parts of the books that I want to highlight or remind me of him.
The first book "I'd Be Your Hero: A royal tale of Godly character" by Kathryn O'Brein was also the subject of a recent class. The story of a boy and his mother and a representation of the godly character traits little boys have and develop. My inscription:
"Dearest Ciaran,
You are 5 years old! Hooray! I am proud of the boy you are and of the man you will one day become. You will always be my hero and I will always love you just the way God made you.
I know that you will always stand up for and protect me and your sisters all the days of your life. Ciaran you are brave, compassionate, determined, a hard worker, fiercely loyal, talented, humble, smart, able to make good choices, friendly, cheerful with an infectious smile and laugh, caring, strong, generous, prayerful, respectful and obedient.
You are special and my hero just the way God made you and by the good choices you make each day as you grow into that man. I will always love you my son."
Love,
Mommy"
The second book we will give him is "The Raft" by Jim LaMarche. It is about a boy who goes to stay with his grandmother on a lake and finds a love of nature and an artist within himself through the events of the summer. This book just screams Ciaran, he is so into nature and all that goes with it. My inscription:
"Dearest Ciaran,
Happy 5th birthday! This book just called your name to me. You are my "little naturalist" and no doubt if we lived on a river you would be our "river rat." You have a love and heart for God's creation. Hold it close and nurture it all the days of your life.
You also have a quiet artistic side that I am sure will develop over time. Nurture those gifts and passions that God has granted you and laid upon your heart. May you draw closer to Him each day of your life as you wonder at and appreciate His masterful creation.
All our love,
Mommy and Daddy"
Perhaps these presents give you a glimpse into dear Ciaran and I suppose also into us as parents and what we choose to give as gifts to him and the reasons behind them. I have enjoyed these five years and am thankful for the blessing he is to our family and to my heart.
Tenniel
The balaphon represents his love of music and his increasing desire to learn. He truly wants to learn an instrument and wants something of his own. We saw this and thought of him. Not the typical first instrument but somehow it fits him just right.
The fireman's hat was originally going to be chainmail but somehow this was the project I ended up knitting. It fits his love of dress up and being a hero. Hours of imaginary play and protecting his sisters and me to follow.
The mittens were a last minute project done just this past weekend. His is starting ice skating lessons tomorrow and needed another pair of mittens, ones that were flexible but warm, I decided a felted pair of mittens would do the trick.
The star wars toys represent his fun side and his love of playing but also a special connection and relationship with his dad who loves star wars. It is a move into boyhood and sharing those connections with daddy.
He also got a baseball bat and mitt a few weeks ago on a special daddy date and he can't wait for the snow to melt so he can try out his new sports equipment and also his skateboard. The skateboard and ice skating are clear Olympics influences.
The sketchbook and pencils go hand in hand with one of the books (The Raft) he is receiving and are a link between his love of drawing, learning and nature. Creating his own special "nature notebook" and his observations on God's creation that he has a special bond with.
The last two gifts are perhaps the most important ones for me to give him and really show his personality right now. Typically we buy one special book for their birthday each year but this year I could not decide between two and bought them both. I wrote an inscription inside each book and I will share it here. The inscriptions relate both to the books and my son. To the parts of the books that I want to highlight or remind me of him.
The first book "I'd Be Your Hero: A royal tale of Godly character" by Kathryn O'Brein was also the subject of a recent class. The story of a boy and his mother and a representation of the godly character traits little boys have and develop. My inscription:
"Dearest Ciaran,
You are 5 years old! Hooray! I am proud of the boy you are and of the man you will one day become. You will always be my hero and I will always love you just the way God made you.
I know that you will always stand up for and protect me and your sisters all the days of your life. Ciaran you are brave, compassionate, determined, a hard worker, fiercely loyal, talented, humble, smart, able to make good choices, friendly, cheerful with an infectious smile and laugh, caring, strong, generous, prayerful, respectful and obedient.
You are special and my hero just the way God made you and by the good choices you make each day as you grow into that man. I will always love you my son."
Love,
Mommy"
The second book we will give him is "The Raft" by Jim LaMarche. It is about a boy who goes to stay with his grandmother on a lake and finds a love of nature and an artist within himself through the events of the summer. This book just screams Ciaran, he is so into nature and all that goes with it. My inscription:
"Dearest Ciaran,
Happy 5th birthday! This book just called your name to me. You are my "little naturalist" and no doubt if we lived on a river you would be our "river rat." You have a love and heart for God's creation. Hold it close and nurture it all the days of your life.
You also have a quiet artistic side that I am sure will develop over time. Nurture those gifts and passions that God has granted you and laid upon your heart. May you draw closer to Him each day of your life as you wonder at and appreciate His masterful creation.
All our love,
Mommy and Daddy"
Perhaps these presents give you a glimpse into dear Ciaran and I suppose also into us as parents and what we choose to give as gifts to him and the reasons behind them. I have enjoyed these five years and am thankful for the blessing he is to our family and to my heart.
Tenniel
Our day
Decided to share a glimpse into our day today. Enjoy.
Woke up around 6:30am to two kids and a dog in our room. One child had already been there for several hours. Serona let the dog out and sent the kids back to their rooms. I stayed in bed another half hour. We got everyone up and ready and out the door to drive Serona to work. Back home again for breakfast and a little bit of play time. During free playtime Ciaran finished building a train track in the living room, Sirah made a little bed for her doll who was going to sleep and Rhiannon built a stable and house for her horses and princesses, I caught up on a few emails.
We headed downstairs to start our school day. Rhia began with her Miquon math book and Ciaran with some dot to dots. Ciaran and I did a quick mini-lesson on bats at the desk next to Rhia while she worked on fractions and I answered questions for her. Meanwhile Sirah played nearby tracing stencils and doing puzzles. She grew impatient and I put on a playsongs video from Karen Henley that she does motions to and sings to. I finished working with Ciaran and Rhia who had then moved on to working on her Illustrated Bible project.
Sirah is pretending she is making cookies, and Ciaran is playing with powerful magnets trying all sorts of different things. Now he is working on his Orange Miquon book matching numbers and sets and practicing writing his numbers. Sirah came up to me and said "I need to do my exercises to get healthy." She began climbing up and down our indoor little slide. She informed me "This is a hard game. Now I need a drink of waters." Then after awhile she picked up some chalk and is drawing a big picture of me on our wall. We painted nearly an entire with chalkboard paint
I have been listening to "Mom watch me" and "Mommy are you watching and "Look" or "What's next." I go back and forth continually and sometimes simoltaneously with all three of them. It can tiring and at times they all are very demanding at the same time. But it is also more rewarding and I see how much we get done in a day.
Signing off for now at 11:30am - more to follow.
Ciaran and Sirah are playing Candlyland DVD - a fun game that burns ALOT of energy and they both enjoy it and get along while they play. I can manage the play while I work with Rhia on other things. She is reading a chapter from science. Right now we are working through a book about the human body and having good health.
I had one plan for science and we flushed it. Serona picked up an old science textbook at a garage sale and Rhia picked it up one day and started reading it and she loved it. So we worked through one entire science book already. Then at our support group book sale I found a few other texts like it. Think the typical science school book you were probably raised with. She chooses to read one chapter a lesson and then we talk about it. As she finds something of more interest we follow up with a more whole book approach and with web resources making it more of a unit study. This way she gets to read a braod base of information but go into more details.
Today she has read about bones, joints and muscles. She asked to do a little experiment about muscles while she held she muscles to see how they feel when she uses them. Then she asked to learn more about hinges and joints and the things that let our body move this way. After a quick google search: hinges joints kids - the second listing gave this ueful website with a short pictorial description with a brief image that shows the motion of your knee as a hinge joint.
Ciaran and Sirah played Lucky Ducks a noisy board game that works on matching colors. Rhiannon is walking around practicing the recorder. So my life is very loud now! These are the moments you question your sanity. Thankfully they are not all day and they last very briefly.
Rhiannon asked to learn the "song from Pollyana" which is America the Beautiful she read and practiced the lyrics for a few times after I sang it twice and then practiced singing it herself twice before we did it again with the lyrics. We ended the morning with a round of "Mr Mint says" from Candyland DVD for all of them, a play on Simon Says.
Off to make lunch now, signing off at 12:30
Tenniel
Woke up around 6:30am to two kids and a dog in our room. One child had already been there for several hours. Serona let the dog out and sent the kids back to their rooms. I stayed in bed another half hour. We got everyone up and ready and out the door to drive Serona to work. Back home again for breakfast and a little bit of play time. During free playtime Ciaran finished building a train track in the living room, Sirah made a little bed for her doll who was going to sleep and Rhiannon built a stable and house for her horses and princesses, I caught up on a few emails.
We headed downstairs to start our school day. Rhia began with her Miquon math book and Ciaran with some dot to dots. Ciaran and I did a quick mini-lesson on bats at the desk next to Rhia while she worked on fractions and I answered questions for her. Meanwhile Sirah played nearby tracing stencils and doing puzzles. She grew impatient and I put on a playsongs video from Karen Henley that she does motions to and sings to. I finished working with Ciaran and Rhia who had then moved on to working on her Illustrated Bible project.
Sirah is pretending she is making cookies, and Ciaran is playing with powerful magnets trying all sorts of different things. Now he is working on his Orange Miquon book matching numbers and sets and practicing writing his numbers. Sirah came up to me and said "I need to do my exercises to get healthy." She began climbing up and down our indoor little slide. She informed me "This is a hard game. Now I need a drink of waters." Then after awhile she picked up some chalk and is drawing a big picture of me on our wall. We painted nearly an entire with chalkboard paint
I have been listening to "Mom watch me" and "Mommy are you watching and "Look" or "What's next." I go back and forth continually and sometimes simoltaneously with all three of them. It can tiring and at times they all are very demanding at the same time. But it is also more rewarding and I see how much we get done in a day.
Signing off for now at 11:30am - more to follow.
Ciaran and Sirah are playing Candlyland DVD - a fun game that burns ALOT of energy and they both enjoy it and get along while they play. I can manage the play while I work with Rhia on other things. She is reading a chapter from science. Right now we are working through a book about the human body and having good health.
I had one plan for science and we flushed it. Serona picked up an old science textbook at a garage sale and Rhia picked it up one day and started reading it and she loved it. So we worked through one entire science book already. Then at our support group book sale I found a few other texts like it. Think the typical science school book you were probably raised with. She chooses to read one chapter a lesson and then we talk about it. As she finds something of more interest we follow up with a more whole book approach and with web resources making it more of a unit study. This way she gets to read a braod base of information but go into more details.
Today she has read about bones, joints and muscles. She asked to do a little experiment about muscles while she held she muscles to see how they feel when she uses them. Then she asked to learn more about hinges and joints and the things that let our body move this way. After a quick google search: hinges joints kids - the second listing gave this ueful website with a short pictorial description with a brief image that shows the motion of your knee as a hinge joint.
Ciaran and Sirah played Lucky Ducks a noisy board game that works on matching colors. Rhiannon is walking around practicing the recorder. So my life is very loud now! These are the moments you question your sanity. Thankfully they are not all day and they last very briefly.
Rhiannon asked to learn the "song from Pollyana" which is America the Beautiful she read and practiced the lyrics for a few times after I sang it twice and then practiced singing it herself twice before we did it again with the lyrics. We ended the morning with a round of "Mr Mint says" from Candyland DVD for all of them, a play on Simon Says.
Off to make lunch now, signing off at 12:30
Tenniel
Bats Lesson
Impromptu lesson for Ciaran who turns 5 this week. He has been starting to want to do more and more each day.
Lately he has been very into doing connect the dot puzzles. I start nearly each morning by printing out a few connect the dots for him. Today he was looking over my shoulder and asked for the bat printout.
He did a connect the dots and then asked me if he could learn about bats. He wants to see pictures of them, know about their sounds and what their claws are used for. He wanted to see a video.
So I began my google searches with: creature feature bats. Creature Feature is a neat part of the National Geographic for kids website that offers videos, audio and fact files on a wide variety of animals. Here is the link for vampire bats.
We began by watching a video on vampirew bats. It showed a video of a vampire bat flying and catching prey as well as a group of them together. Then we read the fun fact files and learned about them. We listened to a one minute audio clip and located where they live on a world map. Then we sent daddy a postcard at work where Ciaran dictated to me all he learned and wanted to share with daddy.
Then we did a google image search for bats and looked at a variety of pictures. We watched a few brief video clips from video.google.com and will end with reading a Gail Gibbons book on bats.
It was quick, easy and fun. I love google!
Lately he has been very into doing connect the dot puzzles. I start nearly each morning by printing out a few connect the dots for him. Today he was looking over my shoulder and asked for the bat printout.
He did a connect the dots and then asked me if he could learn about bats. He wants to see pictures of them, know about their sounds and what their claws are used for. He wanted to see a video.
So I began my google searches with: creature feature bats. Creature Feature is a neat part of the National Geographic for kids website that offers videos, audio and fact files on a wide variety of animals. Here is the link for vampire bats.
We began by watching a video on vampirew bats. It showed a video of a vampire bat flying and catching prey as well as a group of them together. Then we read the fun fact files and learned about them. We listened to a one minute audio clip and located where they live on a world map. Then we sent daddy a postcard at work where Ciaran dictated to me all he learned and wanted to share with daddy.
Then we did a google image search for bats and looked at a variety of pictures. We watched a few brief video clips from video.google.com and will end with reading a Gail Gibbons book on bats.
It was quick, easy and fun. I love google!
March 22, 2006
MN Alert
Thanks for all your calls. You can stop calling now. I received a new update this morning. Thanks for your calls. The bill was heard and tabled. MACHE had representation at the meeting and have talked to the author of the bill to rework it and she has agreed to work with them to help protect homeschoolers rights. For now we can relax. Thanks for helping protect homeschoolers rights.
Peace,
Tenn
Peace,
Tenn
March 21, 2006
Call Now MN
They are heading into committee. Be sure to call NOW! Olson is against this bill already so you know the others did not state positions as I got legislative assistants primarily.
Please call the Education Committee today and urge each senator to
vote against S.F. 2124. Tell them, "This bill is unnecessary. It
restricts parental choice and wastes taxpayer money. Please vote 'No'
on SF 2124!"
Education Committee:
Senator Steve Kelley, Chairman
(651) 297-8065
Senator Rod Skoe, Vice-Chair
(651) 296-4196
Senator Gen Olson, Ranking Minority Member
(651) 296-1282
Senator Michele Bachmann
(651) 296-4351
Senator Tarryl Clark
(651) 296-6455
Senator David Hann
(651) 296-1749
Senator Geoff Michel
(651) 296-6238
Senator Tom Saxhaug
651.296-4136
Senator LeRoy Stumpf
(651) 296-8660
Senator David Tomassoni
(651) 296-8017
Please call the Education Committee today and urge each senator to
vote against S.F. 2124. Tell them, "This bill is unnecessary. It
restricts parental choice and wastes taxpayer money. Please vote 'No'
on SF 2124!"
Education Committee:
Senator Steve Kelley, Chairman
(651) 297-8065
Senator Rod Skoe, Vice-Chair
(651) 296-4196
Senator Gen Olson, Ranking Minority Member
(651) 296-1282
Senator Michele Bachmann
(651) 296-4351
Senator Tarryl Clark
(651) 296-6455
Senator David Hann
(651) 296-1749
Senator Geoff Michel
(651) 296-6238
Senator Tom Saxhaug
651.296-4136
Senator LeRoy Stumpf
(651) 296-8660
Senator David Tomassoni
(651) 296-8017
March 20, 2006
Call to Action - Minnesota
Minnesota--Calls Needed to Stop Increased Control Over Homeschooling
Senate File 2124 would increase the reporting requirements for
Minnesota by two years, by lowering the required age for starting
school from 7 to 5. Though this bill has been in the Education
Committee for a year, it has just recently been revived, and is
scheduled for a committee hearing tomorrow. We have a short window of
time to make a difference!
ACTION REQUESTED:
Please call the Education Committee today and urge each senator to
vote against S.F. 2124. Tell them, "This bill is unnecessary. It
restricts parental choice and wastes taxpayer money. Please vote 'No'
on SF 2124!"
Education Committee:
Senator Steve Kelley, Chairman
(651) 297-8065
Senator Rod Skoe, Vice-Chair
(651) 296-4196
Senator Gen Olson, Ranking Minority Member
(651) 296-1282
Senator Michele Bachmann
(651) 296-4351
Senator Tarryl Clark
(651) 296-6455
Senator David Hann
(651) 296-1749
Senator Geoff Michel
(651) 296-6238
Senator Tom Saxhaug
651.296-4136
Senator LeRoy Stumpf
(651) 296-8660
Senator David Tomassoni
(651) 296-8017
Senate File 2124 would increase the reporting requirements for
Minnesota by two years, by lowering the required age for starting
school from 7 to 5. Though this bill has been in the Education
Committee for a year, it has just recently been revived, and is
scheduled for a committee hearing tomorrow. We have a short window of
time to make a difference!
ACTION REQUESTED:
Please call the Education Committee today and urge each senator to
vote against S.F. 2124. Tell them, "This bill is unnecessary. It
restricts parental choice and wastes taxpayer money. Please vote 'No'
on SF 2124!"
Education Committee:
Senator Steve Kelley, Chairman
(651) 297-8065
Senator Rod Skoe, Vice-Chair
(651) 296-4196
Senator Gen Olson, Ranking Minority Member
(651) 296-1282
Senator Michele Bachmann
(651) 296-4351
Senator Tarryl Clark
(651) 296-6455
Senator David Hann
(651) 296-1749
Senator Geoff Michel
(651) 296-6238
Senator Tom Saxhaug
651.296-4136
Senator LeRoy Stumpf
(651) 296-8660
Senator David Tomassoni
(651) 296-8017
March 16, 2006
Ciaran's first math sheet
Ciaran decided he wanted to start a new math book this week - so we are starting him with the orange book of Miquon math. He loves using the rods and went through three worksheets the first day and has asked every day since to do some.
He also loves sudoku puzzles!
March 14, 2006
Let Them Be Wild
Or atleast let them spend time in wild places is what a new study finds.
Letting kids spend time outdoors camping, hiking, exploring and so on helps them develop a love and respect for their environment.
This connections seems obvious but still yet another reason for all those nature walks and time spent exploring outdoors.
Peace,
Tenn
Letting kids spend time outdoors camping, hiking, exploring and so on helps them develop a love and respect for their environment.
This connections seems obvious but still yet another reason for all those nature walks and time spent exploring outdoors.
Peace,
Tenn
March 13, 2006
I'd Be Your Hero Lesson Plan
This is a lesson plan I developed for a preschool class of little boys based on the book, "I'd Be Your Hero: A Royal Tale of Godly Charachter" by Kathryn O'Brien. It is designed so you read each short section of her book and then do the activities listed below. It is fun, easy and teaches tremendous charachter lessons. Could easily be adapted for a much wider range of ages. I highly recommend this. Can be combined with the lesson plan for "I'd Be Your Princess" by the same author for the girls in your class.
1. Castle with snapping alligators, hissing snakes -keep watch
a. Have boys take turns being animals and taking watch
b. While on watch have boys stand still, listen and call “Halt who goes there”
c. Talk about how brave they are and how God is with them.
d. "Do not be terrified …for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
2. Bow and arrow practice -hard worker
a. Have boys take turns with bow and arrow
b. Alternatly have them practice throwing a ball at the target
c. Talk about importance of trying again and again because they are hard workers. Practice is important. Talk about sports.
d. "Let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus" Hebrews 12: 1,2
3. Jousting tournament -very talented
a. Have boys pretend to ride horses around the room
b. Have them practice holding their arms (or swords) very still
c. "I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge" Exodus 31:3
4. Congratulate others -you are very humble
a. Have each boy feel the cheering and brave bravo of each other
b. After being cheered for have each boy congratulate each other boy for a job well done.
c. Talk about the importance of being a good sport and being humble with each other. Always seeing the good in each other.
d. "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another." 1 Peter 5:5
5. Journey through wilderness -ask your opinion -make good choices
a. Have boys practice running through the wilderness. Charge over high mountains, leap over rocky streams.
b. Let boys play follow the leader to demonstrate how they make good choices and others follow their directions.
c. "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom." -Proverbs 3:13
6. Discover treasures and describe them -you know interesting things
a. Let boys scavenge the room for treasures, little plastic animals, bugs and shells.
b. Let each boy have a turn sharing and telling what they know about their item and how they found it.
c. Talk about importance of learning and sharing our knowledge.
d. "Wise men store up knowledge" Proverbs 10:14
7. Ride horse, carry shield and smile -you are friendly
a. Have boys take turns riding horses around the room as the others cheer and wave to them.
b. Have boy practice smiling and waving back
c. Talk about how important it is to be friendly and kind to each other
d. Have boys practice scowling and frowning and talk about how it feels and looks different.
e. "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart" Proverbs 15:30
8. Drop gold coin -rush to pick it up and return it.
a. Talk about doing the right thing even when it is hard to do.
b. Walk around the room and drop money on the ground. Let each boy have an opportunity to pick up the coin and make a choice what to do with it.
c. Talk about how hard it is to make good choices and how happy we make God and our parents when we do make good choices.
d. "Therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people." Galatians 6:10
9. Help lift heavy things -you are strong
a. Have boys pretend we are on a ship
b. Have boys take turns doing hard work, lifting and carrying heavy items, carrying things from place to place, doing the hard chores.
c. Talk about doing hard work and how God makes each of them strong.
d. Talk about how they can be strong for their moms and sisters and help with their muscles.
e. "The Lord is my strength and my song" Exodus 15:2
10. Welcoming and sharing -you are very generous
a. Have boys take turn greeting each other
b. Have them share their horses and knight gear with each other.
c. Discuss importance of sharing even when it is hard.
d. Encourage them to share with a sibling or friend this week.
e. "Be generous and willing to share" 1 Timothy 6:18
11. Pray to God -because you love to talk to God
a. Talk about importance of prayer with God and the importance of being respectful during prayer time.
b. Sitting in a circle have each boy take a turn leading a prayer to God
c. "Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
12. Listen to stories of knights -good listener
a. Talk of importance of listening carefully
b. Play telephone to have boys listen carefully to each other
c. Read a poem and have boys recite it back
i. Humpty Dumpty
d. "Let the wise listen and add to their learning." Proverbs 1:5
13. Conclusion
a. Have boys remove knight armor and gear and sit back down.
b. Remind them they are heroes and knights, brave and strong, wise and kind just the way God made them without costumes, gear or titles.
c. They are brave and special and parents and God love them as they are.
d. They need to see other boys as heroes too just as they are and be kind and good to women.
e. End with a discussion of protecting those around them and how God protects and loves them.
1. Castle with snapping alligators, hissing snakes -keep watch
a. Have boys take turns being animals and taking watch
b. While on watch have boys stand still, listen and call “Halt who goes there”
c. Talk about how brave they are and how God is with them.
d. "Do not be terrified …for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
2. Bow and arrow practice -hard worker
a. Have boys take turns with bow and arrow
b. Alternatly have them practice throwing a ball at the target
c. Talk about importance of trying again and again because they are hard workers. Practice is important. Talk about sports.
d. "Let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus" Hebrews 12: 1,2
3. Jousting tournament -very talented
a. Have boys pretend to ride horses around the room
b. Have them practice holding their arms (or swords) very still
c. "I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge" Exodus 31:3
4. Congratulate others -you are very humble
a. Have each boy feel the cheering and brave bravo of each other
b. After being cheered for have each boy congratulate each other boy for a job well done.
c. Talk about the importance of being a good sport and being humble with each other. Always seeing the good in each other.
d. "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another." 1 Peter 5:5
5. Journey through wilderness -ask your opinion -make good choices
a. Have boys practice running through the wilderness. Charge over high mountains, leap over rocky streams.
b. Let boys play follow the leader to demonstrate how they make good choices and others follow their directions.
c. "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom." -Proverbs 3:13
6. Discover treasures and describe them -you know interesting things
a. Let boys scavenge the room for treasures, little plastic animals, bugs and shells.
b. Let each boy have a turn sharing and telling what they know about their item and how they found it.
c. Talk about importance of learning and sharing our knowledge.
d. "Wise men store up knowledge" Proverbs 10:14
7. Ride horse, carry shield and smile -you are friendly
a. Have boys take turns riding horses around the room as the others cheer and wave to them.
b. Have boy practice smiling and waving back
c. Talk about how important it is to be friendly and kind to each other
d. Have boys practice scowling and frowning and talk about how it feels and looks different.
e. "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart" Proverbs 15:30
8. Drop gold coin -rush to pick it up and return it.
a. Talk about doing the right thing even when it is hard to do.
b. Walk around the room and drop money on the ground. Let each boy have an opportunity to pick up the coin and make a choice what to do with it.
c. Talk about how hard it is to make good choices and how happy we make God and our parents when we do make good choices.
d. "Therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people." Galatians 6:10
9. Help lift heavy things -you are strong
a. Have boys pretend we are on a ship
b. Have boys take turns doing hard work, lifting and carrying heavy items, carrying things from place to place, doing the hard chores.
c. Talk about doing hard work and how God makes each of them strong.
d. Talk about how they can be strong for their moms and sisters and help with their muscles.
e. "The Lord is my strength and my song" Exodus 15:2
10. Welcoming and sharing -you are very generous
a. Have boys take turn greeting each other
b. Have them share their horses and knight gear with each other.
c. Discuss importance of sharing even when it is hard.
d. Encourage them to share with a sibling or friend this week.
e. "Be generous and willing to share" 1 Timothy 6:18
11. Pray to God -because you love to talk to God
a. Talk about importance of prayer with God and the importance of being respectful during prayer time.
b. Sitting in a circle have each boy take a turn leading a prayer to God
c. "Pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
12. Listen to stories of knights -good listener
a. Talk of importance of listening carefully
b. Play telephone to have boys listen carefully to each other
c. Read a poem and have boys recite it back
i. Humpty Dumpty
d. "Let the wise listen and add to their learning." Proverbs 1:5
13. Conclusion
a. Have boys remove knight armor and gear and sit back down.
b. Remind them they are heroes and knights, brave and strong, wise and kind just the way God made them without costumes, gear or titles.
c. They are brave and special and parents and God love them as they are.
d. They need to see other boys as heroes too just as they are and be kind and good to women.
e. End with a discussion of protecting those around them and how God protects and loves them.
I'd Be Your Princess Lesson Plan
This is a lesson plan I developed for a preschool class of little boys based on the book, "I'd Be Your Princess: A Royal Tale of Godly Charachter" by Kathryn O'Brien. It is designed so you read each short section of her book and then do the activities listed below. It is fun, easy and teaches tremendous charachter lessons. Could easily be adapted for a much wider range of ages. I highly recommend this. Can be combined with the lesson plan for "I'd Be Your Hero" by the same author for the boys in your class.
1. Smile and wave to all people in the kingdom - you are so beautiful
"Let your beauty be of your inner self" -1 Peter 3:4
-Have girls put on princess crowns and gear.
-Have the girls take turns walking up and down the aisles smiling and waving with all the others waving back at them.
-Discuss how we are all truly beautiful by what is inside us and the actions we do.
- Have girls frown and scowl and compare how that felt inside and looked outside to when they smiled.
-Share how our kind actions and choices we make are what make us attractive to people and not what we wear. How God wants us to clothe ourselves with kindness, good deeds and inner beauty
2. Lower the drawbridge -because you are so helpful
"Serve one another in love" Galatians 5:13
- Have girls take turns opening the door for each other.
- Talk about how we are to serve and help one another.
- Share how Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and came to serve and not be served.
- Ask them how they can serve a member of their family this week, encourage them to do it.
3. Listen carefully -because you love to learn
" Let us learn together what is good" Job 34:4
a. Take turns looking through the telescope at the pictures on the wall.
b. Have girls practice listening carefully as you tell them names of things
c. Share how the bible encourages us to learn and pay attention to wisdom, how we learn more when we listen carefully.
4. Listen to your opinion -because you know how to make good choices.
"For the Lord gives wisdom" Proverbs 2:6
a. Discuss how God gives us wisdom and our parents teach us how to make good choices. How each time we make a good choice we build trust and show we know how to make good decision.
b. Play Follow the leader to demonstrate how when they make good choices people will listen to them and follow what they say.
5. When someone falls down you help him -you are a good friend
"A friend loves at all times" Proverbs 17:17
a. Have girls take turns helping each other up from a seated position on the ground. While discussing how we need to help each other as friends.
b. Have girls take turns cheering each other on as they each do something fun up on stage. Talk about how we need to encourage and support our friends.
6. Sailing Ship, Hold the Wheel -because you are brave
"Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God goes with you." Dueteronomy 31:6
a. Pretend you are sailing a ship, let each girl take a turn steering the "wheel" and leading the group. Talk about how they are brave and the importance of that.
b. Share the story of Jesus calming the seas and remind them that God is in control and takes care of them, allowing them to be brave.
7. Bow to the people -because you are humble
"Clothe yourself with humility toward one another." 1 Peter 5:5
a. Teach the girls how to courtesy.
b. Discuss the importance of being humble and not prideful. How we should never think ourselves better, prettier, funnier, etc than each other. But love each other and see the good in all people.
8. Say please and thank you -because you have good manners.
"Show proper respect to everyone." 1 Peter 2:17
a. Have girls ask each other for their crown by saying please and then saying thank you after they receive it. Make sure each girl has one crown at the end.
b. Demonstrate a counter example of "give me that" and taking something then walking away without saying thank you. (You do this not the girls)
c. Ask the girls how that would make them feel and then talk about the importance of having good manners and how nice manners make people feel respected and liked.
9.We would sing -because you love to sing praises to the Lord
"It is good to praise the Lord and to make music to your name O most high" Psalm 92:1
d. sing a praise song (short one) of your choice with the girls
e. mention how God loves hearing our praises.
10. Sharing -because you are so generous
"Good will come to those who are generous" Psalm 112:5
a. Have girls change crowns again to demonstrate sharing.
b. Encourage them to practice sharing with a sibling or friend this week.
10. Being gracious when someone breaks something -because you are kind
"Be kind and compassionate to one another." Ephesians 4:32
-Discuss how we can be kind to others when they may not be kind to us.
-Discuss how God and our parents forgive our mistakes and we need to forgive each others.
11. Dance -because you are good company
"Your love has given me great joy and encouragement" Philemon 1:7
-Have girls dance around the room and talk about being a good guest.
12. Conclusion
-Have each girl remove her princess gear and sit back down together.
- Each of us is special as we are -we are princesses as God made us, we don’t need crowns or castles or a title.
- Our parents and God love us just as we are
- We need to love each other just as they are.
1. Smile and wave to all people in the kingdom - you are so beautiful
"Let your beauty be of your inner self" -1 Peter 3:4
-Have girls put on princess crowns and gear.
-Have the girls take turns walking up and down the aisles smiling and waving with all the others waving back at them.
-Discuss how we are all truly beautiful by what is inside us and the actions we do.
- Have girls frown and scowl and compare how that felt inside and looked outside to when they smiled.
-Share how our kind actions and choices we make are what make us attractive to people and not what we wear. How God wants us to clothe ourselves with kindness, good deeds and inner beauty
2. Lower the drawbridge -because you are so helpful
"Serve one another in love" Galatians 5:13
- Have girls take turns opening the door for each other.
- Talk about how we are to serve and help one another.
- Share how Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and came to serve and not be served.
- Ask them how they can serve a member of their family this week, encourage them to do it.
3. Listen carefully -because you love to learn
" Let us learn together what is good" Job 34:4
a. Take turns looking through the telescope at the pictures on the wall.
b. Have girls practice listening carefully as you tell them names of things
c. Share how the bible encourages us to learn and pay attention to wisdom, how we learn more when we listen carefully.
4. Listen to your opinion -because you know how to make good choices.
"For the Lord gives wisdom" Proverbs 2:6
a. Discuss how God gives us wisdom and our parents teach us how to make good choices. How each time we make a good choice we build trust and show we know how to make good decision.
b. Play Follow the leader to demonstrate how when they make good choices people will listen to them and follow what they say.
5. When someone falls down you help him -you are a good friend
"A friend loves at all times" Proverbs 17:17
a. Have girls take turns helping each other up from a seated position on the ground. While discussing how we need to help each other as friends.
b. Have girls take turns cheering each other on as they each do something fun up on stage. Talk about how we need to encourage and support our friends.
6. Sailing Ship, Hold the Wheel -because you are brave
"Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God goes with you." Dueteronomy 31:6
a. Pretend you are sailing a ship, let each girl take a turn steering the "wheel" and leading the group. Talk about how they are brave and the importance of that.
b. Share the story of Jesus calming the seas and remind them that God is in control and takes care of them, allowing them to be brave.
7. Bow to the people -because you are humble
"Clothe yourself with humility toward one another." 1 Peter 5:5
a. Teach the girls how to courtesy.
b. Discuss the importance of being humble and not prideful. How we should never think ourselves better, prettier, funnier, etc than each other. But love each other and see the good in all people.
8. Say please and thank you -because you have good manners.
"Show proper respect to everyone." 1 Peter 2:17
a. Have girls ask each other for their crown by saying please and then saying thank you after they receive it. Make sure each girl has one crown at the end.
b. Demonstrate a counter example of "give me that" and taking something then walking away without saying thank you. (You do this not the girls)
c. Ask the girls how that would make them feel and then talk about the importance of having good manners and how nice manners make people feel respected and liked.
9.We would sing -because you love to sing praises to the Lord
"It is good to praise the Lord and to make music to your name O most high" Psalm 92:1
d. sing a praise song (short one) of your choice with the girls
e. mention how God loves hearing our praises.
10. Sharing -because you are so generous
"Good will come to those who are generous" Psalm 112:5
a. Have girls change crowns again to demonstrate sharing.
b. Encourage them to practice sharing with a sibling or friend this week.
10. Being gracious when someone breaks something -because you are kind
"Be kind and compassionate to one another." Ephesians 4:32
-Discuss how we can be kind to others when they may not be kind to us.
-Discuss how God and our parents forgive our mistakes and we need to forgive each others.
11. Dance -because you are good company
"Your love has given me great joy and encouragement" Philemon 1:7
-Have girls dance around the room and talk about being a good guest.
12. Conclusion
-Have each girl remove her princess gear and sit back down together.
- Each of us is special as we are -we are princesses as God made us, we don’t need crowns or castles or a title.
- Our parents and God love us just as we are
- We need to love each other just as they are.
March 9, 2006
Mozambique Country Study Pictures
Some pictures from our Mozambique Lesson:
Map
Flag
Swahili
African Drum
Map
Flag
Swahili
African Drum
Country Study: Mozambique
Yesterday we started a unit study with two other homeschool families. Just a short 4 session unit study on the country of Mozambique. We have friends who are currently missionaries in the country with children near our kids ages. Having done country studies before we thought it would be fun to do one on the country they are in and with friends.
The first day of the studied opened at a friends house. We had 8 children there with two primary ages groups of PK/K and 1/2nd grade which we taught together. Sirah also wanted to do everything the older kids were doing and she participated more than I expected. The baby in the group, a one year old blessed us with a nap almost the entire time!
The Mozambique lesson began with the kids assembling at the kitchen table and listening to a children's song about Mozambique. Then we talked about passports and they got country flag stickers to serve as their passport stamps. Then they located Africa on the globe. Then they were handed out an outline map of Africa and located the main oceans and wrote them as well as locating and coloring in Mozambique. Brief discussion about Africa and climates and all the zones that it crosses. Then they worked on their Mozambique map. They drew in the rivers and learned some facts about them. They put a star on the capital, Maputo and wrote it out. They talked about other geographical features of Mozambique like the coastline and islands. Also learned about some of the national parks and conservation attempts.
We stopped for a snack and during snack time the kids listened to a book on "Counting through Africa" which talked about different things in Africa in Swahili. They learned how to count to 10 in Swahili and sang a song that counted to ten in both English and Swahili.
The kids then made a replica of the Mozambique flag. We had an actual flag from Mozambique brought to us by our friends who live there this Christmas. The kids made their flags out of big pieces of foam, cut to shape. A photocopy of the red triangle with all the symbols was glued on last. The kids learned about the reason and symbols for the flag design and glued a piece of paper with this description on the back of their flag.
The kids then had a lesson on African drums and finding rhythm and beats. They began with the teacher (one of the moms) showing them how to hear and find rhythm with their hands on their legs. Then they played a game with a partner, clapping on their knees twice and then patting hands with their partner twice. They had great fun with this. Next, they sat in a circle on the floor with several drums being passed around. They listened a CD with children's african songs and had to try to find the beat with the drums. We had two more traditional drums, from Africa (though not Mozambique) that were given to us by a friend who lived in Benin Africa a few years ago. We also had a few plastic drums - the kids played one drum for a song and then passed it until each child had a turn with each of the drums (they were short songs).
Then we stopped for lunch, everyone brought a lunch from home. We ended lunch with the reading of another really cute book about an American child who lived in Africa and had to come back to America but considered Africa home. It was called "When Africa was home." Then they all tried a homemade coconut rice candy and a bit of fresh coconut. Then the kids had some playtime while we wrapped up and cleaned up.
It was a fantastic day! The mom who taught the class did an outstanding job and the kids all really enjoyed themselves. It was very educational, even to me, I never knew that Mozambique is the only country in the world that has a machine gun on their flag. It was great fun! It is so much more enjoyable to take a break from our usual studies and work together with other parents to teach in such a fun and relaxed environment. Three more to look forward to!
Peace,
Tenniel
The first day of the studied opened at a friends house. We had 8 children there with two primary ages groups of PK/K and 1/2nd grade which we taught together. Sirah also wanted to do everything the older kids were doing and she participated more than I expected. The baby in the group, a one year old blessed us with a nap almost the entire time!
The Mozambique lesson began with the kids assembling at the kitchen table and listening to a children's song about Mozambique. Then we talked about passports and they got country flag stickers to serve as their passport stamps. Then they located Africa on the globe. Then they were handed out an outline map of Africa and located the main oceans and wrote them as well as locating and coloring in Mozambique. Brief discussion about Africa and climates and all the zones that it crosses. Then they worked on their Mozambique map. They drew in the rivers and learned some facts about them. They put a star on the capital, Maputo and wrote it out. They talked about other geographical features of Mozambique like the coastline and islands. Also learned about some of the national parks and conservation attempts.
We stopped for a snack and during snack time the kids listened to a book on "Counting through Africa" which talked about different things in Africa in Swahili. They learned how to count to 10 in Swahili and sang a song that counted to ten in both English and Swahili.
The kids then made a replica of the Mozambique flag. We had an actual flag from Mozambique brought to us by our friends who live there this Christmas. The kids made their flags out of big pieces of foam, cut to shape. A photocopy of the red triangle with all the symbols was glued on last. The kids learned about the reason and symbols for the flag design and glued a piece of paper with this description on the back of their flag.
The kids then had a lesson on African drums and finding rhythm and beats. They began with the teacher (one of the moms) showing them how to hear and find rhythm with their hands on their legs. Then they played a game with a partner, clapping on their knees twice and then patting hands with their partner twice. They had great fun with this. Next, they sat in a circle on the floor with several drums being passed around. They listened a CD with children's african songs and had to try to find the beat with the drums. We had two more traditional drums, from Africa (though not Mozambique) that were given to us by a friend who lived in Benin Africa a few years ago. We also had a few plastic drums - the kids played one drum for a song and then passed it until each child had a turn with each of the drums (they were short songs).
Then we stopped for lunch, everyone brought a lunch from home. We ended lunch with the reading of another really cute book about an American child who lived in Africa and had to come back to America but considered Africa home. It was called "When Africa was home." Then they all tried a homemade coconut rice candy and a bit of fresh coconut. Then the kids had some playtime while we wrapped up and cleaned up.
It was a fantastic day! The mom who taught the class did an outstanding job and the kids all really enjoyed themselves. It was very educational, even to me, I never knew that Mozambique is the only country in the world that has a machine gun on their flag. It was great fun! It is so much more enjoyable to take a break from our usual studies and work together with other parents to teach in such a fun and relaxed environment. Three more to look forward to!
Peace,
Tenniel
March 8, 2006
New blogger
Welcome Jackson to the blogosphere. A homeschooled teenager, he wrote an excellent post on the TV show 24's Hidden Motive.
I am not a TV watcher but found it worth the read. I think we will see great things from this young man who already expresses himself so well! Check it out and leave him a comment.
Peace,
Tenniel
I am not a TV watcher but found it worth the read. I think we will see great things from this young man who already expresses himself so well! Check it out and leave him a comment.
Peace,
Tenniel
Their Giggles
Putting my kids to bed tonight and listening to their giggles and laughter I know that is what I will miss. Already Rhiannon laughs so much less, which is sad to me. Still I have Ciaran and Sirah with their infectious laughter, giggles and smiles. I just want to bottle them forever.
When my house is quiet and my kids are off at college, I think I will really miss these giggles. Heck in just a few years I will miss the giggles and the big hugs around my neck - where they never let go.
I have not felt like my kids have grown up too quickly and I am enjoying each stage and think I will enjoy them as they get older even more. But these giggles and laughter, these are precious, to be treasured and adored.
Peace,
Tenniel
When my house is quiet and my kids are off at college, I think I will really miss these giggles. Heck in just a few years I will miss the giggles and the big hugs around my neck - where they never let go.
I have not felt like my kids have grown up too quickly and I am enjoying each stage and think I will enjoy them as they get older even more. But these giggles and laughter, these are precious, to be treasured and adored.
Peace,
Tenniel
March 7, 2006
Living with our choices
Today we learned a good lesson today. A lesson about living with the consequences of your choices. I thought the day was going to teach this lesson to our dear Rhiannon, and it did. However, more importantly, the events of the day taught me the lesson in spades.
I will admit I was sick of fighting over math, sick of fighting to get Rhia to sit at the table and start schoolwork. It was Monday, our original plan of a fun day of unit studies with friends was squashed by Sirah's 2am fever and we were all in a bit of a funk. I know it did not help that I had laundry, dishes and plenty of clutter to pick up. Perhaps the combination of events led me to the brillant idea that I would not fight today. I would let Rhia make her bed and live in it. In the end it was I who made my bed and stayed in it.
At 9am I simply threw in the towel and said "You can still play now and choose when to start school but you will not eat lunch until you finish your work." Then I went on with other activities and waited. At 10:30 I retracted and told her she needed to start or she would not have time to get her work done before lunch. What followed over the next several hours was lots of pain for me.
Every inch took forever to accomplish as Rhia bucked at each suggestion and requirement. We went on with school until nearly 4pm! Yes I did relent and give her lunch at around 2pm and in case you think I give too much work to my darling young child I assure you her work could have easily been accomplished in a bit over an hour and certainly within 2 hours easily. So why did we then take over 5 hours to accomplish the task? Because I gave her too much choice and responsibility for which she was not ready to handle.
You see I want her to be able to control her own schedule and to make choices and start and finish when she wants but I need to realize this comes later and right now, given the type of child she is, Rhiannon needs clearly defined boundaries and guidelines. She needs structure and then she can have freedom within that structure. Today I simply overwhelmed her with a freedom and expectations she could not be expected to handle. The reality was she could not assess her our limitations here and I shirked my responsibility and left it to her. A weight too big for her little shoulders, though one she will be ready to carry in the too near future.
Serona used an analogy tonight when he was helping me realize that the fault was really my own even though I was frustrated with Rhiannon. In case you wonder, Serona is fair but if he leans anyway usually it is more strict on the kids and more leinant on me, the complete opposite of tonight which made me realize the truth in what he was saying. His analogy was on the eating habits and choices of our children.
If our kids could choose, as most kids, they would choose to fill their bodies with lots of yummy and unhealthy things. Now don't get me wrong my kids do like fruit, veggies and yes even tofu but they still love cake, ice cream and candy. It is my responsibility as a parent to help them set limits and give them some freedom within those limits. It is my responsibility as a parent to be sure that my child has many healthy options to choose from and some sweets to enjoy. It is my responsibility to set the boundaries and limits and give them choice within those boundaries while they are young and then grant them more freedom as they get older and have the experience and wisdom to make better choices for themselves.
The same is true for our schooling time. I need to set some firm boundaries and guidelines and then grant my children freedom within those boundaries. Children's personalities can vary so much but I need to recognize my own child and her desire for limits and structure.
Rhiannon is a child who thrives well with certain boundaries and expectations clearly outlined. She is also the child who will push right up to the edge of those boundaries to see if they are really hard and fast or not. I have found that she is much happier when she knows that they are real boundaries and when they stand up to her testing. She likes to know her limits and then stay within them once she realizes they are real limits.
Today I lived with the consequence of my choices. I became a frustrated and tired mommy. I fought all day long during what were supposed to be fun lessons. There were tears and angry words from everyone. Feelings were hurt, productivity was down and it all could have been avoided. The worst part for me is knowing that I did what I did out of good intentions and it backfired. So I lived with the consequences of my own choices.
Tommorrow I will try again and hopefully do better.
Peace,
Tenniel
I will admit I was sick of fighting over math, sick of fighting to get Rhia to sit at the table and start schoolwork. It was Monday, our original plan of a fun day of unit studies with friends was squashed by Sirah's 2am fever and we were all in a bit of a funk. I know it did not help that I had laundry, dishes and plenty of clutter to pick up. Perhaps the combination of events led me to the brillant idea that I would not fight today. I would let Rhia make her bed and live in it. In the end it was I who made my bed and stayed in it.
At 9am I simply threw in the towel and said "You can still play now and choose when to start school but you will not eat lunch until you finish your work." Then I went on with other activities and waited. At 10:30 I retracted and told her she needed to start or she would not have time to get her work done before lunch. What followed over the next several hours was lots of pain for me.
Every inch took forever to accomplish as Rhia bucked at each suggestion and requirement. We went on with school until nearly 4pm! Yes I did relent and give her lunch at around 2pm and in case you think I give too much work to my darling young child I assure you her work could have easily been accomplished in a bit over an hour and certainly within 2 hours easily. So why did we then take over 5 hours to accomplish the task? Because I gave her too much choice and responsibility for which she was not ready to handle.
You see I want her to be able to control her own schedule and to make choices and start and finish when she wants but I need to realize this comes later and right now, given the type of child she is, Rhiannon needs clearly defined boundaries and guidelines. She needs structure and then she can have freedom within that structure. Today I simply overwhelmed her with a freedom and expectations she could not be expected to handle. The reality was she could not assess her our limitations here and I shirked my responsibility and left it to her. A weight too big for her little shoulders, though one she will be ready to carry in the too near future.
Serona used an analogy tonight when he was helping me realize that the fault was really my own even though I was frustrated with Rhiannon. In case you wonder, Serona is fair but if he leans anyway usually it is more strict on the kids and more leinant on me, the complete opposite of tonight which made me realize the truth in what he was saying. His analogy was on the eating habits and choices of our children.
If our kids could choose, as most kids, they would choose to fill their bodies with lots of yummy and unhealthy things. Now don't get me wrong my kids do like fruit, veggies and yes even tofu but they still love cake, ice cream and candy. It is my responsibility as a parent to help them set limits and give them some freedom within those limits. It is my responsibility as a parent to be sure that my child has many healthy options to choose from and some sweets to enjoy. It is my responsibility to set the boundaries and limits and give them choice within those boundaries while they are young and then grant them more freedom as they get older and have the experience and wisdom to make better choices for themselves.
The same is true for our schooling time. I need to set some firm boundaries and guidelines and then grant my children freedom within those boundaries. Children's personalities can vary so much but I need to recognize my own child and her desire for limits and structure.
Rhiannon is a child who thrives well with certain boundaries and expectations clearly outlined. She is also the child who will push right up to the edge of those boundaries to see if they are really hard and fast or not. I have found that she is much happier when she knows that they are real boundaries and when they stand up to her testing. She likes to know her limits and then stay within them once she realizes they are real limits.
Today I lived with the consequence of my choices. I became a frustrated and tired mommy. I fought all day long during what were supposed to be fun lessons. There were tears and angry words from everyone. Feelings were hurt, productivity was down and it all could have been avoided. The worst part for me is knowing that I did what I did out of good intentions and it backfired. So I lived with the consequences of my own choices.
Tommorrow I will try again and hopefully do better.
Peace,
Tenniel
March 6, 2006
When Homeschoolers Stink...
I came across this post when I should have been sleeping but could not. It is a must read for homeschoolers, moms especially. Be sure to check out Black and White's When Homeschoolers Stink.
Peace,
Tenn
Peace,
Tenn
March 5, 2006
The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe Lesson Three
This is the third lesson in a six part class on "The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis. You can read the syllabus, lesson one, and lesson two.
Week Three Lesson
March 3rd:
Assigned Reading: Chapters 9-12, also read at least one human encounter with God from the bible. Some examples to
choose from are Moses and Saul.
Chapter 9
A. Edmund as Fool of the bible
1. Edmund convincing himself he is not sinning p 96-97
While Edmund is walking to the Witch's house, we are treated to a little "explanation" of his thoughts. Edmund tries
to convince himself that the Witch isn't as bad as everyone says, when in reality, he knows she is.
Edmund has been bewitched by the magical Turkish Delight, and is too stubborn to admit that he may have been wrong.
All of this allows us to understand that Edmund is not necessarily a wicked person, just foolish and obstinate.
2. Share personal experiences from their lives of doing that rationalization about behavior or opposition ‘s
real intention
3. Edmund's behavior is inexcusable. He has had plenty of chances to realize the error of his ways and repent,
but still he continues in his childish ways.
4. Edmund is an example of what the book of Proverbs calls a "fool," who does not learn from his mistakes and
does not listen to wise council. As Proverbs 13:19 says, "A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest
turning from evil." (For more words of wisdom concerning fools and their ways, read Proverbs 12 & 13
5. Read p 103 drawing on the lion and discuss
B. Mythology in Narnia
Witch's half of each p96
Jinn
Giantess
Dwarf - 101 (witch's castle)
Satyrs - 104
Spirits of trees (dryads) 105
Centaur
Dragon - 105
Pegasus
Chapter 10
A. Foreshadowing
1. Coming of Age The children become accustomed to life in Narnia, and welcome the adventures that come their
way. They have never before been adventurers, of course, but they don't seem to have any trouble marching, sleeping
in shifts, and behaving like little soldiers.
2. Upcoming Battle Father Christmas bestows gifts upon the children; a sword and shield for , and bow, quiver,
and horn for Susan, and a vial and small dagger for Lucy. The children are very grateful for these presents, but the
gifts bring with them the promise of an upcoming battle. For all the jollity of the occasion, Father Christmas also
conveys a warning, things are heating up in Narnia, and the children should be ready for some action.
B. Prophecy
1. Definition Prophecy - in a broad sense, is the prediction of future events. But prophecy often implies the
involvement of supernatural phenomena. It is also used as a general term for the revelation of divine will.
2. Christmas in Narnia - prophecy coming true p 116 -117 Father Christmas comes. As Mr. Beaver reminds the
children, the Witch has twisted Narnia so that it is "always winter and never Christmas." The coming of Father
Christmas is the first indication that the Witch's power is waning. This can only mean one thing: Aslan is coming.
3. The end of winter prophecy p85
Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight,
At the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more,
When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death,
And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again.
C. Symbolism of Weapons in Literature
1. Read p 118 and discuss
2. Sword - The names given to many swords in mythology, literature, and history reflect the high prestige of the
weapon, nobility
3. Dagger - secondary defense weapon in close combat
D. Writing idea for personal enrichment
Choose an animal in Narnia and write a few paragraphs about how you think they may spend Christmas. What traditions
they may have. What their day and festivities may look like.
Chapter 11
A. Edmunds Consequences
1. Edmund is not faring well with the Witch. She treats him disdainfully, and when he finally musters up enough
courage to ask for some Turkish Delight, she instead feeds him stale bread and water.
2. Edmund is learning the hard way what happens when you place your trust in someone who is only interested in
looking out for themselves. Since both of them are selfishly seeking their own gain--the Queen by using Edmund to
get to his siblings, Edmund wanting only to eat more Turkish Delight and exact revenge on his siblings--there can be
no co-operation between them.
3. By contrast, Peter, Susan, and Lucy are having a pleasant journey with the Beavers, working as a team and
enjoying each other's company.
4.
B. Coming of Spring - Literary Symbolism - Hope p 131-133
1. For witch - not pleasant. The coming of spring is not such a pleasant prospect for the White Witch. Not only does
it prove that her power is waning and that Aslan is coming, but it also means she cannot ride in her sledge any
longer; she is forced to get out and walk. As the weather continues to grow warmer, flowers peak their heads above
the snow and the streams melt and begin to flow.
2. Traditionally in literature, the arrival of spring coincides with a renewal of hope and high spirits; winter is
over, and life can begin again. Historically, people and cultures have equated spring with resurrection, as new life
rises from the dead ground.
3. For Narnians - In Narnia, the coming of spring means that Aslan is on his way. As to what this means exactly, we
are not yet sure.
C. Edmund's Turning Point - Climax for him
1. P 124 read his section of realization he will not be king
2. Stands up for the fox and squirrel and friends
3. Discussion - He hits rock bottom and finally starts to admit his mistakes to himself and repents. How is
that similar to your own lives?
Chapter 12
Meeting Aslan/Meeting God Parallels
A. Meeting Aslan
1. Read p 139-140 "But as for Aslan himself…through Peter's intro"
2. Kids discuss
3. Their meeting with Aslan is greater and richer than the children could have possibly imagined. He fills them
with happiness and bravery and calms their fears. He is a dominating presence, but a welcome one.
4. Lewis makes it a point to describe Aslan's impact upon the children:
5. Terrible and awesome - What does Lewis mean by this? Usually, when we use the word "terrible" we mean that
something is frightening. But the word has another meaning too that is akin to awesome. In this sentence, C. S.
Lewis is using the word "terrible" in the second sense, Aslan fills the children with awe and they are blown away by
the power of his presence.
6. Does any of this sound familiar to you? It should: similar language is used to describe God in the Old
Testament. In fact, the King James Version uses the word "terrible" to describe God quite a few times. Our God is an
awesome God.
B. Biblical Encounters with God
1. Moses
2. Saul
3. Abraham
C. Personal Encounters with God
1. allow kids to discuss personal experiences
D. Religious Parallels - or metaphor
1. Discuss the similarities and differences of Aslan encounter with a God encounter or a Jesus encounter
2. Does this support LWW as allegory or metaphor, why?
Coming of Age
A. Discuss what it means to come of age
B. Other literary/movie examples
a. Aragon in Lord of the Rings - Land of the dead
b. Frodo in Lord of the Rings
c. Luke Skywalker in Star Wars - battle
d. Lawrence in Lawrence of Arabia - land of the dead
C. Sometimes it is a moment sometimes it is a process
D. Read p 143 "Let the prince win his spurs." And again from p145 "You have forgotten to clean your sword to
the end"
E. Discuss Peters' Coming of Age, compare/contrast to other examples
F. Singled out as leader by Aslan
a. Let the prince win his spurs
b. P 142 " you shall be high king"
G. Symbolic and actual renaming of Peter
Symbolism of The Stone Table
- Religious Representation of the Old Law
- Compared to 10 commandments
In a letter to one of his young readers, C. S. Lewis explained the connection. The Stone Table loosely represents
the Old Law, the Ten Commandments handed to Moses on Mt. Sinai.
In later chapters, you will learn that the Stone Table is covered in ancient writing, just like the tablets God
gave to Moses. Keep this connection in mind; its importance will become clear later on. You can read the story of
the stone tablets in Exodus 24.
Class Wrap - Up
1. Reminder to Read Chapters 13-15, also Mark Chapters 14 -16 in your bible and to bring bibles
2. Optional Quiz Handout and Showcase Handout
3. Time for showcase
Week Three Lesson
March 3rd:
Assigned Reading: Chapters 9-12, also read at least one human encounter with God from the bible. Some examples to
choose from are Moses and Saul.
Chapter 9
A. Edmund as Fool of the bible
1. Edmund convincing himself he is not sinning p 96-97
While Edmund is walking to the Witch's house, we are treated to a little "explanation" of his thoughts. Edmund tries
to convince himself that the Witch isn't as bad as everyone says, when in reality, he knows she is.
Edmund has been bewitched by the magical Turkish Delight, and is too stubborn to admit that he may have been wrong.
All of this allows us to understand that Edmund is not necessarily a wicked person, just foolish and obstinate.
2. Share personal experiences from their lives of doing that rationalization about behavior or opposition ‘s
real intention
3. Edmund's behavior is inexcusable. He has had plenty of chances to realize the error of his ways and repent,
but still he continues in his childish ways.
4. Edmund is an example of what the book of Proverbs calls a "fool," who does not learn from his mistakes and
does not listen to wise council. As Proverbs 13:19 says, "A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest
turning from evil." (For more words of wisdom concerning fools and their ways, read Proverbs 12 & 13
5. Read p 103 drawing on the lion and discuss
B. Mythology in Narnia
Witch's half of each p96
Jinn
Giantess
Dwarf - 101 (witch's castle)
Satyrs - 104
Spirits of trees (dryads) 105
Centaur
Dragon - 105
Pegasus
Chapter 10
A. Foreshadowing
1. Coming of Age The children become accustomed to life in Narnia, and welcome the adventures that come their
way. They have never before been adventurers, of course, but they don't seem to have any trouble marching, sleeping
in shifts, and behaving like little soldiers.
2. Upcoming Battle Father Christmas bestows gifts upon the children; a sword and shield for , and bow, quiver,
and horn for Susan, and a vial and small dagger for Lucy. The children are very grateful for these presents, but the
gifts bring with them the promise of an upcoming battle. For all the jollity of the occasion, Father Christmas also
conveys a warning, things are heating up in Narnia, and the children should be ready for some action.
B. Prophecy
1. Definition Prophecy - in a broad sense, is the prediction of future events. But prophecy often implies the
involvement of supernatural phenomena. It is also used as a general term for the revelation of divine will.
2. Christmas in Narnia - prophecy coming true p 116 -117 Father Christmas comes. As Mr. Beaver reminds the
children, the Witch has twisted Narnia so that it is "always winter and never Christmas." The coming of Father
Christmas is the first indication that the Witch's power is waning. This can only mean one thing: Aslan is coming.
3. The end of winter prophecy p85
Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight,
At the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more,
When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death,
And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again.
C. Symbolism of Weapons in Literature
1. Read p 118 and discuss
2. Sword - The names given to many swords in mythology, literature, and history reflect the high prestige of the
weapon, nobility
3. Dagger - secondary defense weapon in close combat
D. Writing idea for personal enrichment
Choose an animal in Narnia and write a few paragraphs about how you think they may spend Christmas. What traditions
they may have. What their day and festivities may look like.
Chapter 11
A. Edmunds Consequences
1. Edmund is not faring well with the Witch. She treats him disdainfully, and when he finally musters up enough
courage to ask for some Turkish Delight, she instead feeds him stale bread and water.
2. Edmund is learning the hard way what happens when you place your trust in someone who is only interested in
looking out for themselves. Since both of them are selfishly seeking their own gain--the Queen by using Edmund to
get to his siblings, Edmund wanting only to eat more Turkish Delight and exact revenge on his siblings--there can be
no co-operation between them.
3. By contrast, Peter, Susan, and Lucy are having a pleasant journey with the Beavers, working as a team and
enjoying each other's company.
4.
B. Coming of Spring - Literary Symbolism - Hope p 131-133
1. For witch - not pleasant. The coming of spring is not such a pleasant prospect for the White Witch. Not only does
it prove that her power is waning and that Aslan is coming, but it also means she cannot ride in her sledge any
longer; she is forced to get out and walk. As the weather continues to grow warmer, flowers peak their heads above
the snow and the streams melt and begin to flow.
2. Traditionally in literature, the arrival of spring coincides with a renewal of hope and high spirits; winter is
over, and life can begin again. Historically, people and cultures have equated spring with resurrection, as new life
rises from the dead ground.
3. For Narnians - In Narnia, the coming of spring means that Aslan is on his way. As to what this means exactly, we
are not yet sure.
C. Edmund's Turning Point - Climax for him
1. P 124 read his section of realization he will not be king
2. Stands up for the fox and squirrel and friends
3. Discussion - He hits rock bottom and finally starts to admit his mistakes to himself and repents. How is
that similar to your own lives?
Chapter 12
Meeting Aslan/Meeting God Parallels
A. Meeting Aslan
1. Read p 139-140 "But as for Aslan himself…through Peter's intro"
2. Kids discuss
3. Their meeting with Aslan is greater and richer than the children could have possibly imagined. He fills them
with happiness and bravery and calms their fears. He is a dominating presence, but a welcome one.
4. Lewis makes it a point to describe Aslan's impact upon the children:
5. Terrible and awesome - What does Lewis mean by this? Usually, when we use the word "terrible" we mean that
something is frightening. But the word has another meaning too that is akin to awesome. In this sentence, C. S.
Lewis is using the word "terrible" in the second sense, Aslan fills the children with awe and they are blown away by
the power of his presence.
6. Does any of this sound familiar to you? It should: similar language is used to describe God in the Old
Testament. In fact, the King James Version uses the word "terrible" to describe God quite a few times. Our God is an
awesome God.
B. Biblical Encounters with God
1. Moses
2. Saul
3. Abraham
C. Personal Encounters with God
1. allow kids to discuss personal experiences
D. Religious Parallels - or metaphor
1. Discuss the similarities and differences of Aslan encounter with a God encounter or a Jesus encounter
2. Does this support LWW as allegory or metaphor, why?
Coming of Age
A. Discuss what it means to come of age
B. Other literary/movie examples
a. Aragon in Lord of the Rings - Land of the dead
b. Frodo in Lord of the Rings
c. Luke Skywalker in Star Wars - battle
d. Lawrence in Lawrence of Arabia - land of the dead
C. Sometimes it is a moment sometimes it is a process
D. Read p 143 "Let the prince win his spurs." And again from p145 "You have forgotten to clean your sword to
the end"
E. Discuss Peters' Coming of Age, compare/contrast to other examples
F. Singled out as leader by Aslan
a. Let the prince win his spurs
b. P 142 " you shall be high king"
G. Symbolic and actual renaming of Peter
Symbolism of The Stone Table
- Religious Representation of the Old Law
- Compared to 10 commandments
In a letter to one of his young readers, C. S. Lewis explained the connection. The Stone Table loosely represents
the Old Law, the Ten Commandments handed to Moses on Mt. Sinai.
In later chapters, you will learn that the Stone Table is covered in ancient writing, just like the tablets God
gave to Moses. Keep this connection in mind; its importance will become clear later on. You can read the story of
the stone tablets in Exodus 24.
Class Wrap - Up
1. Reminder to Read Chapters 13-15, also Mark Chapters 14 -16 in your bible and to bring bibles
2. Optional Quiz Handout and Showcase Handout
3. Time for showcase
Ciaran Learning to Read
Ciaran has turned the corner and shown a real interest in learning to read lately. Just this week he began asking what letter different words start with, sounding things out and read three of the Bob books. He is very excited and we are going with the interest as it is there.
Until now he mostly choose to do math type games like adding manipulatives or doing suduko puzzles. In addition he has been working on learning his name because then he can get his own library card when he can write it neatly and small enough to fit on the card signature line.
I love these early days of interest in reading. Watching the light bulbs go on as they get it is very exciting to me. He is fast approaching his 5th birthday and these past few weeks has seen a real maturing in him.
I have never pushed him to read or do anything along the school lines yet. Rather I have offered opportunities when he asks for them and occasionally to see if he would like to try something. If he says no we leave it alone until he is interested. Lately, he has enjoyed being read to more and more with a much longer attention span and choosing more and more non-fiction books as opposed to the picture storybooks he usually chooses.
Exciting and fun times ahead,
Tenniel
Until now he mostly choose to do math type games like adding manipulatives or doing suduko puzzles. In addition he has been working on learning his name because then he can get his own library card when he can write it neatly and small enough to fit on the card signature line.
I love these early days of interest in reading. Watching the light bulbs go on as they get it is very exciting to me. He is fast approaching his 5th birthday and these past few weeks has seen a real maturing in him.
I have never pushed him to read or do anything along the school lines yet. Rather I have offered opportunities when he asks for them and occasionally to see if he would like to try something. If he says no we leave it alone until he is interested. Lately, he has enjoyed being read to more and more with a much longer attention span and choosing more and more non-fiction books as opposed to the picture storybooks he usually chooses.
Exciting and fun times ahead,
Tenniel
March 4, 2006
Rhiannon on Academy
This week at Academy Rhiannon enjoyed her classes. Some of the highlights according in her words:
In sign language class I learned animal signs. My favorite was horse. She demonstrates. Hold both hands on the sides of your forhead with thumb and two fingers making and L, other fingers turned down. Then you turn your hands down toward the ground. We fingerspelled everyone's names and their parents names. She also demonstrates how to sign father and mother.
Next I went to manners class. We learned how to be a guest and how to be a hostess. When being a good guest, help when asked for help, stay and help pick up, do not leave dirty dishes. When being a good hostess make sure everyone wants to play the same thing, make sure they are comfortable and playing well. I also learned how to behave at a guest's house.
Then I went to my character class. Here I learned about being truthful. I learned a story about a boy. See if you can figure out which is false and true.
In Africa boys were camping out. In Africa boys used to kill lions to show their strength. One of the boys decided to show off his strength. He went on a walk and saw a friendly lion. He looked and saw that everything about him was safe. He picked up the stick and started waving it wildly at the lion. The lion was getting annoyed, he was about to make an attack. As the lion jumped in the air the boy leapt at him stuck his hand through his mouth, through his stomach to his tail and pulled him inside out. The lion was tickled to death by his own fur. So the boy conquered a lion and brought him back.
or
In Africa boys used to kill lions to show their strength. One of the boys decided to show off his strength. He went on a walk and saw a friendly lion. He looked and saw that everything about him was safe. He picked up the stick and started waving it wildly at the lion. The lion was getting annoyed, he was about to make an attack.
The boy picked up his spear and stuck it in the ground. As the lion leapt the stick pierced his heart and he brought back the lion's body for all to see.
We also learned the story of Peter the Wolf and a story that our teacher told us that she did with her children.
My teacher was teaching her children about half-stepping. Her is the story she told. Me and my children were getting ready to pack. The children wanted to play with their things one more time before getting in the car. They were half-stepping so they had more time to play. On their last day of school their mother only brought them halfway and pulled over. She said "today we are only going halfway." This lesson showed them the importance of not half-stepping. It taught them to do things right the first time otherwise you have to do it twice. When you do things half-way often you are not doing them right.
Rhiannon
In sign language class I learned animal signs. My favorite was horse. She demonstrates. Hold both hands on the sides of your forhead with thumb and two fingers making and L, other fingers turned down. Then you turn your hands down toward the ground. We fingerspelled everyone's names and their parents names. She also demonstrates how to sign father and mother.
Next I went to manners class. We learned how to be a guest and how to be a hostess. When being a good guest, help when asked for help, stay and help pick up, do not leave dirty dishes. When being a good hostess make sure everyone wants to play the same thing, make sure they are comfortable and playing well. I also learned how to behave at a guest's house.
Then I went to my character class. Here I learned about being truthful. I learned a story about a boy. See if you can figure out which is false and true.
In Africa boys were camping out. In Africa boys used to kill lions to show their strength. One of the boys decided to show off his strength. He went on a walk and saw a friendly lion. He looked and saw that everything about him was safe. He picked up the stick and started waving it wildly at the lion. The lion was getting annoyed, he was about to make an attack. As the lion jumped in the air the boy leapt at him stuck his hand through his mouth, through his stomach to his tail and pulled him inside out. The lion was tickled to death by his own fur. So the boy conquered a lion and brought him back.
or
In Africa boys used to kill lions to show their strength. One of the boys decided to show off his strength. He went on a walk and saw a friendly lion. He looked and saw that everything about him was safe. He picked up the stick and started waving it wildly at the lion. The lion was getting annoyed, he was about to make an attack.
The boy picked up his spear and stuck it in the ground. As the lion leapt the stick pierced his heart and he brought back the lion's body for all to see.
We also learned the story of Peter the Wolf and a story that our teacher told us that she did with her children.
My teacher was teaching her children about half-stepping. Her is the story she told. Me and my children were getting ready to pack. The children wanted to play with their things one more time before getting in the car. They were half-stepping so they had more time to play. On their last day of school their mother only brought them halfway and pulled over. She said "today we are only going halfway." This lesson showed them the importance of not half-stepping. It taught them to do things right the first time otherwise you have to do it twice. When you do things half-way often you are not doing them right.
Rhiannon
March 3, 2006
Blue Sky Bluebird Narration
A male bluebird finds a female. Then they find a place to nest. The female lays four eggs, shiny as the morning blue sky. For two weeks she sits on her eggs. Then they push out of their shells. The last baby bluebird pushes out of his shell. Soon it is time to learn to fly. When they are all 19 months old they come out. THeir mother and fathers try to coax them out by holding their meal, spiders and worms, in their beaks to try to coax them out. Then they all try to fly. Their wings work beautifully but one bluebird refuses to come out of the nest. He stays in there and one winter night snow made him freeze and shiver and he flew out into the night and found his family nestled in a tree. He joins them next spring the father and mother go back to mate and have a second litter. Older children help take care of the new youngsters getting food, protecting from predators, they work as a team. Soon it is time for he and his sisters to go out and find mates of their own. Once again the story is started.
Book written by Rick Chrustowski
Narration by Rhiannon
Book written by Rick Chrustowski
Narration by Rhiannon
Lifecycle from seed to Sunflower Narration
I learned that seeds have a special shell that the main root grows through and then the plantling starts to push out and then some more roots grow. The seedlings break off the shell and then they start to grow leaves. Then tiny buds appear. When summer is in full shine a flower bursts out. But when autumn comes it will whither and die and shed its seeds. From the mother plant so they can grow to be beautiful sunflowers as well.
Book written by Gerald Legg
Narration by Rhiannon
Book written by Gerald Legg
Narration by Rhiannon
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