Rocking B Farm

Education Links

2010-07-17T10:10:00.022-05:00

WORKBOX SYSTEM

ACTIVITIES (WORKBOX FILLERS)

LAPBOOKS

PRINTABLES SITES

BIBLE

LANGUAGE ARTS

MATHEMATICS

SCIENCE

HISTORY/GEOGRAPHY

COMPLETE PROGRAMS

GRADE LEVEL SKILLS

http://www.internet4classrooms.com/grade_level_help.htm

PRESCHOOL

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

UNIT STUDY

http://www.homeschoolshare.com/levels.php

HOME ECONOMICS

http://www.futurechristianhomemakers.com/FCHLessonsIndex.html

COMPUTER/TYPING

ART

TEST PREP

PLANNERS

TUTOR

http://www.mindsprinting.com/mindsprinting/ ($)

TEACHER RESOURCES

Italian Zucchini Casserole

2010-07-11T13:44:00.001-05:00

ITALIAN ZUCCHINI CASSEROLE

• 3 medium zucchinis, peeled, sliced, and chopped
• 3 Tablespoons of oil, divided
• 1 medium onion
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 4 cups tomato, diced
• 1 Tablespoon basil
• 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups dry instant stuffing mix or bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella

Cook zucchini in 2 Tablespoons oil until tender. Drain and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic in 1 Tablespoon oil. Add tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in zucchini. Place in greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Top with stuffing or bread crumbs, sprinkle with parmesan, cover, and bake at 350* for 20 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake an additional 10 minutes, until the
cheese is golden brown.

CUCUMBER SALAD

2010-07-11T13:42:00.000-05:00

CUCUMBER SALAD

• 1 medium cucumber, chopped
• 1 can of corn, drained
• 2 cups tomato, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar or vinaigrette
• 1 Tablespoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Mix together. Toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes,
before serving.

Modified Workboxes, A Sample Day

2010-07-11T01:12:00.006-05:00

12 is Sue Patrick's number. 12 workboxes to break up the work into smaller, easily managed chunks. I think of each workbox/file folder as about 15-20 minutes worth of work...maybe less for younger children. The original workboxes are plastic shoe-box size tubs. We chose a hanging file folder tub and 12 hanging file folders, as we have limited space and that would be ALOT of little tubs to deal with otherwise!! ;) We use Tapestry of Grace, along with a multitude of other curriculum.

Ok, so let give you a sample day (not a real day for us...I don't have a lesson planner in front of me) for a high schooler:
Workbox/File 1:Geography Map (Pledges and Geography with MOM), 15 minutes
Workbox/File 2:Cozy Grammar DVD Lesson and Worksheet, 20 minutes
Workbox/File 3:Apologia Science book, read pages 25-32, 25 minutes
Workbox/File 4:Apologia Science lab (items in ziploc bag), 20 minutes
Workbox/File 5:VideoText Algebra DVD lesson, 15 minutes
Workbox/File 6:VideoText Algebra Worksheet, 15 minutes
Workbox/File 7:Vocabulary Worksheet, 10 minutes
Workbox/File 8:Spelling with Mom (Sequential Spelling), 10 minutes
Workbox/File 9:The Story of Painting, read pages 25-32, 25 minutes
Workbox/File 10:Gift of Music, read chapter 2, 25 minutes
Workbox/File 11:TOG Student Activity Page-Fine Arts section, 20 minutes
Workbox/File 12:SOS Alabama History, 25 minutes

Not all subjects are covered everyday. And, this is a heavier load than my younger kids have to deal with. No history was covered...just a light geography lesson that day. No writing projects were done. Some subjects (like Fine Arts) are only once a week for the kids...just different days. The workboxes/file folders are labeled with numbers only...no subjects, as day to day that changes.

Here is what a sample Kindergarten day might look like for us:
Workbox/File 1:Geography Map (Pledges and Geography with MOM)
Workbox/File 2:Map Puzzle
Workbox/File 3:Apologia Science book, read pages 25-26
Workbox/File 4:Science worksheet
Workbox/File 5:Developmental Mathematics lesson and worksheet with Mom
Workbox/File 6:Mathematics File Folder Game or Mathematics Flip Book
Workbox/File 7:Phonics Video
Workbox/File 8:Handwriting Workbook (HWT)
Workbox/File 9:ABC Puzzle or www.starfall.com
Workbox/File 10:History-Who Built the Pyramids? Pgs 24-26
Workbox/File 11:Fine Arts-Old Testament Days Pg 32-34
Workbox/File 12:Family Project-Make Egyptian jewelry (items in ziploc bag)

We have a chart on our workboxes. The chart includes all the workbox/file folder numbers, and it also has blank spaces to put tags for other items, such as time on the trampoline, a snack, time on the wii or Nintendo DS, a nature walk...the possibilities are endless!

My preschooler does school work with her siblings...she has since about the age of 2, and she has her very own workbox with 12 hanging folders. Our toddler also has a workbox that has 12 toys in it...we rotate out special school toys that keep him busy. No file folders for him.

If a certain item is used by multiple children (such as a video, dvd, book), then we have a box it goes in, and in that workbox/file folder, we have a photocopy of that item and the kids know where to go to get the item. We are not heavily into worksheets, as we like literature based curriculum.

I am not big into the posters that Sue Patrick likes. I don't have the time or room for something like that. We do file folder games and flip books instead. They take up less room! ;) When it comes to any curriculum, modify it or leave things out, to fit your needs!

I hope this all makes sense and helps you out! :) If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Mexican Salad--Vegetarian...or Not!

2010-06-22T19:30:00.003-05:00

Mexican Salad
A great recipe to use your fresh garden produce!

1 cup chopped onion
1 large red bell pepper, seeded & chopped
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained
1 (15 oz) can whole-kernel corn, drained
4 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 large green bell peppers, seeded & chopped
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons canola oil
8 cups shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 bag of tortilla chips
Optional: 1 pound lean ground beef, browned

Combine first 7 ingredients in a large bowl. Combine vinegar and next 3 ingredients in a small bowl; pour over corn mixture, and toss to coat. Cover and chill at least 1 hour.

To serve, spoon vegetable mixture over lettuce, and top with cheese and browned beef (optional). Place tortilla chips around salad. Serves: 8.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-23T06:54:00.004-06:00

Children: Hunter-15, Payton Nicole-13, Courtney-12, Logan-9, Noah-7, Emma-5, Katie Beth-3, and Titus-15 months. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Boyd Family Traditions

2009-12-19T23:18:00.000-06:00

We have many traditions that we enjoy during December. These pictures are from our December 19th trip to Huntsville. We loaded up our children, plus Sam, and went to the Huntsville Botanical Garden for the Galaxy of Lights. We then went to Horseshoe Trail and visited with Santa, the Grinch, a skinny Polar Bear, live reindeer, and more! We finish our night off with a visit to Krispy Kreme for warm doughnuts and hot chocolate. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Homeschool Photos 2009-Oldest 4

2009-11-20T20:35:00.006-06:00

Hunter-age 15, 9th grade

Payton-age 13, 8th grade

Courtney-age 12, 7th grade

Logan-age 9, 4th grade

Homeschool Photos 2009-Youngest 4

2009-11-20T20:31:00.001-06:00

Noah-age 7, 2nd grade

Emma-age 5, Kindergarten

Katelyn-age 3, PK3

Titus-age 1, Nursery

Grocery Savings at Publix This Morning

2009-11-16T08:01:00.006-06:00

Another great day at Publix! I saved ALOT of money this morning! Here is what I bought:

Kellogg's Cereals were BOGO, so you get 2 for $3.99. I bought 9 Rice Krispies and 16 Froot Loops. I had 25-$1 off 1 online Target coupons. Those were stacked with: 9-$1 off 1 Rice Krispies or Crispix manufacturers coupon and 8-$1 off 2 Froot Loops/Apple Jacks/Corn Pops manufacturers coupon. Those coupons were from the 11/8 Red Plum newspaper circular . So, I got the 9 boxes of Rice Krispies free and the 16 boxes of Froot Loops for 49-50 cents each.
The Rice Krispie boxes had coupons on them for free marshmallows, if you buy 2 boxes of Rice Krispies. I got 5 bags of Jet-Puffed mini-marshmallows free.
I bought two 2-liters of coke, they were 2 for $3.
I bought a Publix Milk for $2.59, and had a $1 off a dairy item from Publix Baby Club.
I bought a pack of Publix Jumbo Meat Franks and had the 1 cent coupon, as this was the mystery item. I got it for a penny!

So, here is the math:

$0 + $7.92 + $0 + $3 + $1.59 + $0.01 = $12.52 OUT OF POCKET (plus tax)

So, here is the savings:

Store Coupons: $27.98
Vendor Coupons: $24.70
Advertised Savings: $49.75
Advantage Buy Savings: $1.50
TOTAL SAVED: $103.93

I paid $12.52, plus tax for $116.45 worth of groceries! Now that is SAVINGS!!! Start here: http://southernsavers.com/

Grocery Savings at Publix Today

2009-11-15T19:05:00.006-06:00

In this economy, every little bit helps! I saved a BUNCH of money at Publix today! I will be going back tomorrow for some things, since they will restock tonight. The best deals at Publix are the BOGO (buy one get one free) items, and coupled with coupons, you can really save some cash!!! Here is what I bought:

Kellogg's Cereals were BOGO, so you get 2 for $3.99. I bought 3 Apple Jacks, as that was all they had. I had 3-$1 off 1 online Target coupons and 1-$1.50 off 3 manufacturers coupon from the 11/8 Red Plum newspaper circular. So, I got 3 boxes of cereal for $1.49.

Betty Crocker SuperMoist Cake Mix was BOGO, so you get 2 for $1.71. I bought 4, for a total of $3.42.

Betty Crocker Frosting was BOGO, so you get 2 for $1.71. I had 2-50 cents off 1 coupons (which were doubled) from the 11/15 Smart Source insert in the newspaper. So, I got 4 for free...actually, with an overage of 15 cents each.

Juicy Juice was BOGO, so you get 2 for $3.65. I had a $1 off 2 internet coupon from the Juicy Juice website. So, I got 2 bottles for $2.65.

Yoplait Yo-Plus and Yo-Plus Light 4 packs were BOGO, so you get 2 for $2.50. I had $1 off 1 coupons from the 11/8 Smart Source insert in the newspaper. We bought 15 packs at 25 cents each. For a total of $3.75.

I also bought two 2 liters of Coke at 2 for $3, and a bag of suckers for $1.89.

So, here is the math:

$1.49 + $3.42 + $2.65 + $3.75 + $3 + $1.89 = $15.20 - $0.60 = $14.60 OUT OF POCKET

Savings: Vendor Coupons: $20.50, Store Coupons: $5.00, Advertised Special Savings: $35.68. TOTAL SAVINGS: $61.18

So, I bought $75.78 worth of groceries for $14.60, plus tax!!!! Here is a link to help you get started: http://southernsavers.com/

Happy 9th Birthday Logan!!!

2009-11-10T21:16:00.004-06:00

Logan, I can't believe you are now 9 years old!!! You are growing up so fast!!!! Slow was never your speed! Today was a good day, despite the rain. We hung out and watched movies, then went on your shopping trip with your birthday money. You bought a dinosaur robot, 2 XBOX 360 games, a Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 vehicle and action figure, and 2 dinosaur playsets for your birthday cake. Plus a some special snacks and a milkshake. We made you a "jurassic" cake, with a volcano. Very cool!! We love you!!!

Morning at the Boyd House

2009-10-05T11:22:00.002-05:00

7 of the 8 Boyd children on a chilly morning in October.

Happy 15th Birthday Hunter!

2009-09-09T22:48:00.004-05:00

Happy 15th Birthday Hunter!!!! You got money for your birthday (no big surprise there) and you used it towards buying the XBox 360, a couple of games, and a year of XBox Live. Soon you will take the written test for your Driver's Permit. We love you Tiger!!!!!!

Happy 1st Birthday Titus!

2009-09-06T20:26:00.002-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday Ty!!!!! You handsome little man!!!!! Today it rained, so we spent the day snuggled up together, watching movies, and playing with your new ball. You also got a couple of neat little cars, an electronic book, and some new clothes for winter. We love you sweet fella!!!!!

Happy 12th Birthday Courtney

2009-09-04T20:15:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Sweetpea!!! Today you turned 12. We went to get you a manicure and pedicure today...lucky girl!!!! You also bought a video game, got your ears pierced, and spent a small fortune at Claire's Boutique! We love you!!!!!!!!!!

Workbox Student Chart & Tags, and Center Tags

2009-08-22T21:24:00.003-05:00

I still have to cut out the tags and laminate them, but you get the picture! Each student has a "Workbox Student Chart" and I place different tags on each of the empty boxes. The tags give them different activities to do, such as: Trampoline, Pick-up Yard, Nature Walk, Science Center, etc. We won't be doing student strips...this would be our equivalent. If you would like these MS Word files, please let me know! Happy Homeschooling!

Workbox Weekly Planner Page

2009-08-22T21:17:00.004-05:00

I made these on Excel. I use these as our lesson planner. One weekend box, mostly for any weekend reading, not really for the workbox. Then 5 daily boxes, each with 12 lines. I list what we be in each "workbox" on the lines, and then every evening I load each "workbox". I have one of these pages for each student, each week. I put them in a binder, and write their grades straight onto these pages. Such a time saver! If you would like a copy of this form, please let me know! Happy Homeschooling!!

Homeschool Centers

2009-08-22T16:57:00.007-05:00

Since starting on the Sue Patrick's Workbox System adventure, I also decided to get more organized and to set up "centers". I don't have the room to set up table centers, but I do have room to set up a center on 1 counter in our kitchen and another at a small table in the family room. I decided to rework 2 messy school shelves (1 shown above), and make them "center" centers! I used cheap washtubs from the dollar store ($1 each for all my storage needs!) and set up tubs. Just pull the tub of choice and set it up in an available spot. The 2 thin turquoise tubs hold file folder games and ringbooks. I am not finished yet, but here is the list of things in them or going to be in them. Yes, that is a MOTH schedule on the bulletin board. Happy Homeschooling!

Math Center
· Magnetic numbers and math symbols
· Math puzzles
· Clocks
· Rulers
· Compass and protractor
· Measuring spoons and cups
· Thermometer
· Flashcards
· Ringbooks
· Grid paper
· Hundreds chart
· Scale
· Weights
· Counters
· Geoboard and rubberbands
· Pattern blocks
· Tangrams
· Dice
· Calculator

Science Center
· Science puzzles
· Hourglass
· Microscope and slides
· Small pitcher
· Plastic bottles
· Magnets
· Magnifying glass
· Prism
· Measuring cups and spoons
· Beakers and flasks
· Scale
· Hotplate
· Droppers
· Tweezers
· Bug jar
· Aquarium
· Thermometer
· Seeds
· Soil
· Sand and Gravel
· One Small Square books by Donald Silver
· Periodic Table Guide
· Book-Food and Nutrition for Every Kid
· Book-DK Ultimate Visual Dictionary of Science
· Related books/video/resources

History Center
· Maps
· Globe
· U.S. Presidents flashcards
· Timeline
· Paper dolls
· The Constitution of the U.S. pocket guide
· A Child’s History of the World
· God and Government-Vol. 1, 2, & 3
· The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia
· The Timetables of History
· World map puzzle
· U.S. map puzzle
· Travel brochures
· Related books/videos/resources

Phonics Center
· Magnetic Letters
· HWT Stamp and See Screen
· HWT Alphabet Dough Cards and Tray
· HWT Dough
· HWT Wood pieces for capital letters
· HWT Capital letter cards
· HWT Foam mat
· HWT Small chalkboard and chalk
· Build a Word Wooden Puzzles
· Lap Computers
· Leapfrog items
· Wipe-off books
· Ringbooks
· Flashcards

Reading Center
· CD/Tape Player and headphones
· Books on Tape/CD
· Lantern
· Leapfrog items
· Books
· Magazines
· Newspapers
· Comic books
· Victory Drill Book
· Graded readers

Language Arts Center
· Dictionary
· Thesaurus
· Notebook paper
· Pencils/pens
· Envelopes
· Crossword books
· Word search books
· Tapestry of Grace Writing Aids
· Rummy Roots Vocabulary Cards
· Madlibs

Creativity Center
· Homemade dough
· Construction paper
· White paper
· Yarn
· Watercolors
· Chalk
· Paperdolls
· Art kits
· Glue
· Glitter
· Scissors
· Stencils
· Tempera paint
· Pipe cleaners
· Tissue paper
· Beads
· Colored noodles/rice
· Whiteboards and markers
· Coloring books
· Crayons
· Colored pencils
· Art aprons

Construction Center
· Legos
· Duplos
· Wood blocks
· Tree blocks
· K’Nex
· Lincoln Logs
· Tinker Toys
· Wooden trains
· Matchbox cars
· Small people
· Small animals
· Lacing activities

Puzzle Center
· Puzzles-all shapes and sizes!

Katelyn's 3rd Birthday

2009-08-21T20:46:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday, Katie Beth, our Katie-Bug! We hope you had a great time at Chuck E. Cheese! Mommy and Daddy love you, sweet girl!!!!

Are You My Mother?

2009-08-12T09:10:00.005-05:00

Meet Burger and Toffee...our newest additions at the Rocking B! We have 10 more chicken eggs in the incubator! Sure to be a hopin' good time!!! Cute little peepers!!!

Emma's 5th Birthday

2009-08-10T09:57:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday, Emmaline Gracey Giuseppe Casey Thomas O'Malley, O'Malley, the kitty cat! We hope you have a great time at the Splash Pad, on the Carousel, and at the Candy Shop! Mommy and Daddy love you, sweet girl!!!!

3 Meals From One 5 Pound Pork Tenderloin

2009-07-09T14:07:00.005-05:00

We buy pork tenderloin on sale at Kroger's for $1.99 per pound. So, a 5 pound pork tenderloin is $10.85 (includes tax). We cut the 5 pound pork tenderloin in half and cut each half into porkchops. Each "half" is then put into ziploc bags to go into the freezer...but before the 2 ziploc bags go into the freezer, we take 2 porkchops from each bag. Those 4 porkchops will be made into Pork Fried Rice. The 2 bags will make 2 meals of BBQ porkchops. These 3 meals feed my family of 10...for now!!!!

PORK FRIED RICE
Ingredients:

4 boneless cooked pork loin chops, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 cups finely chopped carrot
2 cups chopped fresh broccoli
2 cup frozen peas
1 onion chopped
4 or 5 tablespoons butter
4 eggs beaten and scrambled in pan
4 cups cooked white rice
6 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 bouillon cube (we used chicken)

Directions:

Cook rice with bouillon cube
We usually cook these on the grill or in the oven when we are cooking other meat
Saute carrots, broccoli, peas, and onion in butter in skillet
Add rice, meat, eggs, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger to skillet and cook on medium, stirring often, until heated through.
Add a side of stir-fry vegetables (frozen stir-fry veggies from Kroger)

Noah turns 7

2009-07-02T11:56:00.003-05:00

You spent the day swimming and having fun at Pt. Mallard. What a glorious day!! Happy Birthday Boo!!!! We love you!!!!

Ring Books

2009-06-14T17:16:00.005-05:00

Interested in making these cute Ring Books, check out this website that has some free printables: http://www.childcareland.com/free.html Great for flashcards, ring books, file folder games, and more! Happy Homeschooling!

Ring Books, A Look Inside

2009-06-14T17:15:00.001-05:00

Good Buys @ Staples & Dollar Tree ($1 or less)

2009-06-14T16:40:00.011-05:00

Baby and Young Toddler Workboxes

2009-06-12T20:04:00.003-05:00

A tub with activities in Ziploc bags is a great way to keep a little one busy while your other students are homeschooling. Here are some ideas for workbox fillers:

Shape sorter
Little People sets
Duplos
Wood blocks
Star Stacker
Safe cars and trucks (no small parts)
Touch and Feel Board books
Learning Purse
Plastic Tea Set
Plastic Dishes
Washable doll with clothing
Busy Balls
Boats and sea creatures, such as bathtub toys
An "All About Me" book, laminated (homemade with pictures)
Chunky peg puzzles
See 'N Say
Sassy Linking Letters
Dress-up clothes
Busy Gears
LeapFrog Phonics Bus
Roll-a-Rounds

Avoid anything small enough to choke on!!! Will post more later...storm coming.

Toddler, Preschool, & Kindergarten Workboxes

2009-06-12T19:53:00.004-05:00

For toddler, preschool, and kindergarten, workbox fillers:

Ring books
Woodkins
Felt boards and pieces
Puzzles
Flashcards
Cuisenaire rods and cards
Pattern blocks and cards
Word Whammer or Fridge Phonics
Cutting activities
Lacing cards/beads/straws
Watercolor paints
File folder games
Mini Potato Heads(with assembly cards)
Legos (with assembly cards)
Stencils and pencils
Little People
Army men
Small plastic animals
Cars/trucks/airplanes
Bear dress-up puzzles
Sorting activities (sorting cube or sorting boards)
Matching games

You get the picture! Melissa and Doug is a neat place to start...they have so many puzzles and magnetic activities, also check here: http://www.montessorimaterials.org/ (hit the topics on the material menu) and my favorite place for my ring books and file folder games: http://www.childcareland.com/free.html

TOG and Workboxes--Payton's (D)

2009-06-11T10:26:00.005-05:00

Payton Nicole

Grade: 8th, Tapestry of Grace Year 1 Redesign, Level: D

This is a sample of what you would find in our workboxes:

Outfit for the day
Orange folder for completed papers
TOG Binders

Now for the hanging file folders:

We have a Pledges and Geography with Mom card, and a Map print-out
Cozy Grammar DVD and Worksheet
Apologia Physical Science with post-it telling what pages to read
Lab book and post-it telling what labs to do
Developmental Mathematics Level 16 worksheet (she will be moving on to VideoText Algebra)
Poster Card-Vocabulary
Spelling Power words and activity sheet
Group Activity Card-Salt Dough Map
TOG History book-Ancient Egyptians
TOG Fine Arts book-Ancient Egyptians and Their Neighbors
TOG Student Activity Page with a post-it telling her to do the Literature portion
PE Activity Card-1 mile walk/run

I had to modify the system to fit our small home and family size, and even had to modify or eliminate some of the elements of Sue Patrick's Workbox System that might work for someone else. I have set-up our workboxes to fit our lifestyle and keep me sane! :)

TOG and Workboxes--Emma's (LG)

2009-06-11T10:07:00.005-05:00

Emma

Grade: Kindergarten, Tapestry of Grace Year 1 Redesign, Level: LG

This is a sample of what you would find in our workboxes:

In the front of Emma's workbox is her outfit for the day.
Next is a yellow folder for completed papers.

Now for the hanging file folders:

We have a Pledges and Geography with Mom card, and a Map print-out
Phonics Video (Learning to Read with Phonics-Letters and Words)
Letter A Polka Dot Painting Page and "Eating the Alphabet" board book
Handwriting Without Tears workbook
Developmental Mathematics Level 1 Worksheet
Pattern Blocks and Pattern Block Page
TOG History Book for LG-Egyptians
Group Activity Card-Salt Dough Map
Apologia Zoology Book and Workbook
Puzzles
Blue's Clues Color Page and a Flower Colors ring book
PE Group Activity Card-1 mile walk/run

Workboxes and Homeschool Zone

2009-06-11T06:52:00.005-05:00

This is a wall in our kitchen/eating area, that we call our "Homeschool Zone". The "modified" workboxes hold their daily books, papers, activities, etc. and the other shelf holds weekly books, math manipulatives, daily needed items, etc. Sue Patrick's Workbox System is making our day to day homeschooling more streamlined! Looking at blogs peaked my interest, but WOW on how much you will learn from the book!!! Highly recommended!!! Here is the link to Sue Patrick's Workbox System: http://www.workboxsystem.com/

Summer Activities to Keep the Kids Busy!

2009-05-19T11:26:00.003-05:00

Cardboard Box Castle

Sidewalk Chalk

Face Painting

Swimming

Sprinkler

Watercolor Painting

Bike Riding

Make a tent

Trampoline

Sandbox

Water Balloons

Water Guns

Swingset

Paperbag Puppets

Babydoll Bathing

Bicycle Wash (like a car wash)

Bicycle Parade

Frisbee

Foam Swords

Nerf Gun War

Races

Baseball

Kickball

Football

Waterball

Collages

Duck Duck Goose

Dinosaur Dig

Bubbles

Coloring Books

Slip-N-Slide

Red Rover

Soda Bottle Bowling

Follow the Leader

Shaving Cream Painting

Flashlight Tag

Visit a Park

Have a Picnic

Take a Nature Walk

Visit a Farmers Market

Go Fishing

Take a Hike

Visit a Local Historic Site

Ice Cream Social

Backyard Campout

Backyard Movie Night

Play Dress-up

Visit the Library

Feed the Ducks

Go to Yard Sales ($1/child)

Go to Dollar Store ($1/child)

Go to Thrift Stores ($1/child)

Ice Cream at Play McDonalds

Scrapbooking

Go to Local Events (free or cheap)

More to come...

Large Family Homeschool Workbox System

2009-05-14T20:02:00.004-05:00

We have 8 children, 6 of which will be homeschooling this school year and a 3 year old that wants to do "school work" too. When I came across the Workbox System by Sue Patrick, I knew it was something I wanted to try, but knew that we had to modify it to fit into our home and homeschooling. We needed the organization, but we also needed the room to live! We got this bookshelf free...yeah, it is cheap Sauder furniture, but it was free and we can replace it later! Sean added my ABC sign. I bought the hanging file folders and tubs at Staples. The hanging file tubs were on sale for $5.99 each this week, and come with a lid. It was either these, or milk crates that work with hanging files, which I would get from Wal-mart for $5 when they put out school supplies. I will update this again soon to show you the whole area we have this set up in...just have to finish the school decorating!

Lowe's Workshop-Mother's Day Planter

2009-05-09T11:53:00.003-05:00

Logan and Noah enjoyed time with Dad and making Mom a special gift. Mommy loves you fellas!!! :)

Ty's New Bag

2009-05-08T12:08:00.002-05:00

Titus was my Dad's last name (my maiden name) and my little man Ty is named after my Dad. Since dad was from Ann Arbor, and a huge University of Michigan fan, this bag is Ty's new diaper bag...in memory of Dad. U of M colors, bought from L.L. Bean.

Payton turns 13!

2009-05-07T20:53:00.006-05:00

Today my oldest daughter is 13!!! I now have 2 teenagers!!! As if to signify the "coming of age", she wanted her hair cut, eyebrows waxed, and a flat iron to straighten her hair, as her birthday gift! You also did some MAJOR shopping at Rue21 and Old Navy, along with a stop at Target for some unmentionables! Despite becoming a teen, the cake was Hello Kitty! We love you Payton!!!!

The Rockin' B

2009-05-07T18:45:00.002-05:00

After Wednesday's storms, we had to check out the farm...lookin' good!

Storms (aka I Hate Hackberry Trees!!!)

2009-05-06T18:11:00.003-05:00

Sean and his Dad, and our 2 oldest boys, Hunter and Logan, worked on 2 hackberry trees trying to crush our chickens, dogs, fence, and shed. The ground was so wet, they could pull down the smaller one. The larger one was leaning to far and was too heavy to pull over, so they had to cut it in such a way that they could bring it down. It came down, not necessarily as planned, but nothing was harmed in the process! Rain, rain, go away!!!!

Flashcard Directions

2009-05-05T23:55:00.004-05:00

Where to start:

I print all the flashcards out on Cardstock.
After they are printed, I cut them out and take them to get laminated. With all my flashcards and 12 desktags, it only cost $8 to get laminated at the school supply store.
I brought them home and cut them out, leaving a little overhang of lamination.
I hole punched them, put a loose-leaf ring in them and tied on some ribbon. Very easy!

My little girls are loving them, and everyone is loving the desk tags! I am now on the lookout for boyish stuff for my 6 and 8 yo boys. Here are the links to all the other flashcards:

Ladybug-flashcards: http://www.abcteach.com/directory/basics/flashcards/number_flashcards/
Color flashcards: http://www.abcteach.com/free/f/flashcards_colors.pdf
ABC Flashcards: http://www.abcteach.com/free/members/25670.pdf
Desktags-cursive: http://www.abcteach.com/free/d/desktag_alpha_dn_cur_3_bw.pdf
Desktags-manuscript: http://www.abcteach.com/free/d/desktag_alpha_zb_manuscr_2bw.pdf
Shape-flashcards: http://printable-flash-cards.com/flashcards/shapes/shapessm.pdf
I made the "Days of the Week" and "Months of the Year" flashcards on Microsoft Word. Send me your email address, and I will send you the 2 files!

Ladybug Flashcards

2009-05-05T23:51:00.001-05:00

Emma will be a Kindergartener this year, and Katie will be 3 and wanting to learn right along with Emma. I wanted something fun, cute, and educational for the girls. Thanks for the idea Christine!

Flashcards-Months of the Year and Day of the Week

2009-05-05T21:49:00.000-05:00

Colors and Shapes Flashcards

2009-05-05T21:41:00.002-05:00

ABC Flashcards and Table Tags

2009-05-05T21:23:00.000-05:00

Amish Friendship Bread

2009-05-05T08:52:00.008-05:00

AMISH FRIENDSHIP BREAD

Sourdough Starter:

5½ cups all purpose flour

2 cups plus 1 tablespoon sugar

1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast (1½ teaspoon bulk yeast)

2 cups warm water

2 cups milk

Combine:

3½ cups of the flour, 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and the yeast in a large bowl. Gradually add the warm water and beat with a wooden spoon until smooth. Cover with a loose piece of cheesecloth or plastic wrap and let stand in a warm, draft-free place for 1 day.

Follow these steps to finish the starter:

DAY 1: Do nothing to the starter.
DAY 2, 3, and 4: Stir the starter gently with a wooden spoon once a day (10 strokes).
DAY 5: Add 1 cup of the flour, 1 cup of the sugar, and 1 cup of the milk to the starter. Stir with a wooden spoon. Re-cover the mixture and set in a warm place.
DAY 6, 7, 8, and 9: Stir the starter gently with a wooden spoon once a day (10 strokes).
DAY 10: Add the remaining 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, and 1 cup milk to the starter. Stir with a wooden spoon.You'll know the starter is done when it has a pleasant, sweet taste; the mixture is creamy, there is no flour taste. Divide the starter into three 1 cup containers and give to three friends with these instructions. (When I received my batch, it was in a freezer bag. Instead of stirring the starter batch in a bowl, it was squeezed in the bag. We also dated the bag so that you would know which day corresponded to the date).

FRIENDSHIP BREAD

1 c. sourdough starter

2/3 c. vegetable oil

2 c. all purpose flour

3 eggs

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla extract

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp baking soda

1 (5 oz.) box instant vanilla pudding mix

1 c. chopped nuts

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350. Combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well with a wooden spoon (do not use metal). Pour the dough into 2 well greased and floured loaf pans and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Cover with foil toward the end of the baking time to prevent burning. Bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let pans cool for 10 minutes and then remove from the pans and cover loosely to cool completely. You can substitute a bundt pan for bread pan; cooking time is the same.

Farm Fresh Eggs

2009-05-05T08:29:00.005-05:00

We have chickens. We have Welsummers...1 rooster and 1 hen. We also have Black Orpingtons...2 roosters and 1 hen. The hens are laying eggs. The Welsummer hen, Rosemary, lays lovely terracotta colored eggs. The Black Orpington hen, Stella, lays beautiful beige eggs. At some point I would love for them to be free-range, but right now that isn't possible. Chicken safety is a concern. Off to scramble some eggs! Happy morning to ya!

Next Years Homeschool Curriculum

2009-05-05T00:08:00.004-05:00

Next year I will have 6 students:

Emma-Kindergarten
Noah-2nd grade
Logan-4th grade
Courtney-7th grade
Payton-8th grade
Hunter-9th grade

History/Geography/Government/Literature/Bible/Church History/Philosophy: Tapestry of Grace Year 1 Redesign

Mathematics: Developmental Mathematics, Saxon, VideoText Algebra

Science: Apologia-Zoology 2, General Science, Physical Science, Biology

English/Language Arts: Writing Aids, Cozy Grammar, Pathway Readers, Phonics Pathways, Handwriting Without Tears, Spelling Power

Electives: Still working on it!

A Day in the Life of a MOMYS

2009-05-04T21:11:00.004-05:00

This was not a typical day for us, but this is how the day of a Homeschool Mom and her 8 children went:

We woke up late, ate late, showered late, and got out the door late-10:30 AM.

We went to our homeschool covering and registered for next year.

Ran by Sean's work, just so I could give him a kiss.

Went to get gas, because the fuel light came on. Boy did I need it!

Drove to the hospital with Sean during his lunch hour to visit his grandmother and get her a gift. She fell and broke her pelvis yesterday.

Ran home and fed the children lunch.

Went by the dollar store to find some ribbon...nothing!

Ran by another dollar store to find some ribbon...nothing!

Swung by Office Depot to pick up card stock and some fasteners.

Finally decided to go by the sewing shop for ribbon...10 beautiful colors! YES!

Drove home to pick up Sean at 5 PM and went out for ice cream before dinner, because my crew was good during all the errands!

Not typical...not even a good homeschool or homekeeping day...but after 5 day of illness and rain, we needed OUT!

Jaden's Due Date-1 Year Anniversary

2009-04-24T10:38:00.005-05:00

Jaden, our angel baby, we love you very much and are waiting on the day when we can finally hold you! Jaden was due April 24, 2008. (We lost Jaden October 7, 2007...5 weeks before my Dad lost his battle with lung cancer.)

3 Day Potty Training (Katie is now potty trained at 2.5 yo)

2009-03-28T21:16:00.005-05:00

3 DAY POTTY TRAINING

1. Salty snacks (peanuts, popcorn, crackers...encourages drinking) or high water content snacks (watermelon, popsicles, etc.) or poop inducers (salads, broccoli, apples, applesauce, prunes, etc.) and plenty of drinks (juices, sodas, kool-aid...full sugar). No cheese!
2. Potty chairs in close locations or keep the child in the kitchen with a potty chair and plenty to do...we like a one-pice potty chair...they feel secure sitting on it and no parts to loose...clean up is a breeze!
3. No diapers/pull-ups/undies (only at bedtime/nap-and take it off as soon as they wake and get them on the potty!) Naked below the waist (wear a dress or long t-shirt)
4. No shame or fussing/make them help you clean up messes
5. Reward successes with a “potty dance” and a favorite candy
6. Set a kitchen timer to go off every 30 minutes and have the child sit on the potty. Sometimes Katie will go every 30 minutes, but then she won’t go for 3 hours...but at least she gave it a try!

Starting 2 weeks before, take the child to the bathroom and have them watch you go...explain the bathroom routine* (*Bathroom routine-pull down pants and undies, sit on potty and go, wipe, pull up pants, dump in toilet and flush, wash hands) and have them do it with you when you go to the bathroom. The 3 days is about you CATCHING them in time to get to the potty, so pay attention to them!

*Day 1-stay home and focus on drinking/snacks and going to the potty regularly, plus the bathroom routine*. Naked below the waist.

*Day 2-stay home and do the same as Day 1, except for 1 hour outside the house (potty right before going out-this is a must ALWAYS), plus the bathroom routine*. Naked below the waist.

*Day 3- stay home and do the same as Day 1, except for 2-1 hour trips outside the house (potty right before going out-this is a must ALWAYS), plus the bathroom routine*. Naked below the waist.

The next 3 months-no undies/diapers/pull-ups at all, not even outside the house. Carry extra clothing and clean up supplies with you when you leave the house. Girls can wear loose bloomers and boys loose boxers...anything else will feel close to the skin like a diaper and they will wet or mess. The loose clothing is key to them learning and not feeling like a diaper is being worn. After that, they should be ready for undies/panties. Our reward for going potty is the potty dance/cheer and M & M’s. After 3 months with few accidents, they are ready for special underwear/panties. If you don't see any success on the first 3 days, stop and start over in 6-8 weeks. Accidents happen, even with children that have been potty trained for quite some time! We also have a potty chair and toilet paper, etc. that we take in the van with us.

1 Chicken = 3 Meals

2009-02-02T23:29:00.004-06:00

Chicken bought at ALDI on sale for 79 cents per pound @ 5.55 lbs=$4.38 + 9% sales tax = $4.77. My chicken is on the stove as I type, and this is what we have planned for our chicken, although there are other things we do with chicken such as chicken stew, chicken cacciatore, chicken pot pies, chicken mashed potatoes, etc.. Yes, this can feed a MOMYS family...I feed 2 adults and 8 growing children (2 teens, 2 preteens) this, and they are satisfied! We also have the children's friends occasionally. Nobody here goes hungry! I put the chicken in a stock pot and cover it with water. Bring it to a boil and then simmer for a couple of hours. The meat is done when you try to pick up the chicken and the meat comes off the bone. Take the chicken out of the pot with a slotted spoon. Set the chicken in a dish to cool, and when cool, pick it off the bone. Let the broth cool. Use 1/3 of the chicken and 4 cups of broth to make chicken and dressing. Add in sides, and this may actually be enough for 2 meals.Use 1/3 of the chicken to make a chicken and rice or noodle dish. This has Cream of chicken soup and veggies added. Homemade rolls with this.Use 1/3 of the chicken and the pot of broth to make chicken noodle or rice soup...with veggies. We add cornbread muffins to this.

Rocking B Chicken and Dressing

2009-02-02T22:56:00.002-06:00

To make chicken and dressing, fix a skillet of cornbread. When it is cooled, crumble the cornbread as much as possible (sometimes the crust will not crumble easily, but it is okay).

1 large skillet of cornbread, crumbled

10 slices of bread, diced

1 tablespoon poultry seasoning

1 tablespoon sage

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 large onion, diced well

1 1/2 sticks of butter, melted

3 large eggs

4 cups of chicken stock

1.5-2 lbs cooked & cooled chicken or turkey, shredded

I usually mix this in a stock pot and then bake it in a greased 9" x 13" pan. Mix the crumbled cornbread with the diced bread, add the onion and melted butter. In another bowl beat the eggs, add 3 cups of broth and seasonings. Stir this into the bread to moisten it all. Transfer to the baking pan. Cover with foil.Cook at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Stir the dressing, scraping it off the sides too. Re-cover, bake for another 15 minutes. Stir it again and taste it to see if you like the seasoning. Add the chicken and 1 cup of broth into the dressing and stir well. Bake without the foil until it seems "set", you know, not too mushy-gushy. Serve with mashed potatoes and another veggie. Yummy!

Rocking B Tater Soup

2009-02-02T22:49:00.001-06:00

NOTE: This recipe feeds a family of ten, so you may have to adjust it a bit to your family's size.

7-8lbs. Potatoes, peeled and sliced or cubed
1 Large onion, chopped as fine/coarse as you like it
2-3 T Olive Oil, or Canola or whatever you use
1 ½ t Garlic Powder
1 t Basil
1 ½ t Black Pepper
2 t Salt
1 ½ Stick of Butter
¼ c Sour Cream
1 T Worcestershire
Chicken Bouillon Cubes
Milk

Directions:

Put the potatoes in a large stock pot, and measuring how much it takes, add enough water to cover them. Then for every 8 oz. of water used add a chicken bouillon cube. Add 1/2 teaspoon basil, one teaspoon Black Pepper, one teaspoon salt, and boil the potatoes until they are soft enough to mash. Then pour the water into a bowl or other pan and set aside.Put your 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a sauce pan or skillet at medium heat. You want just enough oil to coat all the onion. Anymore and you will have oily potato soup. Add your onion and garlic. Cook these till the onion starts looking kind of clear.Add 4 cups of the water used on the potatoes that you set aside back to the potatoes and mash leaving a few lumps (how ever you like it). Now add the onion, garlic and butter to the potatoes. Mix all this until the butter is all melted. Add ½ teaspoon of Basil, ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, 1 teaspoon Salt, 1/4 cup Sour Cream, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire. Then add enough milk to achieve the consistency that you like. Mix well. Before you serve it taste it and add any additional spices that you feel it may be lacking on.We like to top this with Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Chives and Bacon bits.

Homemade Baby Wipes

2008-11-23T21:37:00.005-06:00

With 2 in diapers, this saves me at least $20 a month on baby wipes. I shop the sales, such as buying the 8 pack of Bounty paper towels when they are on sale for $7.99 or less, and use a coupon. Baby bath and oil go on sale too, and baby coupons are easy to find! Shop smart! Making baby wipes is VERY EASY, so no excuses! :) This is a picture of Titus right before we left the hospital. My sweet little red haired man!!!!

HOMEMADE BABY WIPES
Ingredients:

1 cylinder shaped plastic container or in a pinch, a Ziploc bag
1 roll of Bounty paper towels (no substitutions!!)
2 Cups Boiling Water
1 TBSP. Baby Bath
1 ½ TBSP. Baby Oil

Cut the roll of paper towels in half (cross wise) with a knife, serrated works best. Remove the card board from the middle. Place your half roll of paper towels in the container (cut side down). Mix the baby bath and baby oil with the boiling water. Stir well. When it has cooled a bit, pour the mixture over the paper towels in the container.

Logan's First Buck

2008-11-15T15:10:00.002-06:00

Meet Albert, Logan's first kill...a buck. Shot 11/15/2008. Way to go son, you are now a man!

Titus (aka Baby Ty)

2008-09-06T23:36:00.001-05:00

Our newest little man, Titus, was born September 6, 2008 by emergency c-section. He weighed in at 7 lbs 15 ozs and 20 3/4 inches long. He is our smallest baby to date.

Sean

2008-08-05T23:59:00.000-05:00

Summer 2008

ABC Workout

2008-06-07T23:42:00.002-05:00

ABC Workout

Use a weighted ball, soup can or another lightly weighted item that is easy to hold
Use your arms and entire body to spell out the alphabet, making large sweeping motions

I have done this workout, and it is awesome! HOWEVER, if you are overweight or out of shape, here are some tips to keep you from causing yourself some major pain.

To begin with, skip the weighted object (your weight will be sufficient to begin with) and use just a regular kids ball or pilates hoop.
Start out with just 8 or 10 capital letters of the alphabet, instead of the full 26...add more as the others become easy.
Do not do this more often than 3 times per week.
When doing the letters, squat down to the floor and then reach up for the stars as you stand...this will work out ALOT of muscles.

You may not feel the result of the workout for a day or two, but if you don't listen to my helpful tips, you may not be able to get out of bed one day because you thought it was so easy on day one! The first time I did this workout, I did the full 26 letters, and then 2 days later I was feverish and sore and unable to move without screaming! LOL

Laundry Mishaps

2008-04-16T23:47:00.002-05:00

Well, my husband did it again! Laundry and Sean are just NOT a good combination! The first time he messed up the laundry, he said "I just didn't see that red sock when I put the whites in." Everyones socks and underwear turned pink, and my eldest son Tiger would not wear pink...still won't. The second time Sean messed up the laundry, he shrank my Susan Bristol sweater down to doll size! GRRRRR! LOL The third time, Sean washed and dried bubble gum...ughhhhhhhhhh! Well, this time Sean washed and dried a bright pink, glittery crayon. I know he thought he was being helpful, especially since I am pregnant and tired...but, oyyyy! I love him, but if that man gets near my washer and dryer again, I will hurt him!!!! LOL

Instead of getting all our school work done, the children watched a video, "Keeping the Promise" (based on the book, "Sign of the Beaver"), while Mom surfed the net trying to find a way to get crayon out of 2 loads of jeans. We had planned to watch the video as part of our school day, but it became the only school work to be finished. This is the first time we ever had a crayon enter our laundry.

I ran to Walgreens to get the supplies I needed to battle the crayon, here is what I did:

1. Spray everything down with Shout Advanced Action Gel, then turn washer on using hot water
2. Put 4 scoops of OxyClean Powder in the washer
3. Pour some Clorox Oxi Magic Stain Remover into washer (no set amount)
4. Pour some Spray 'n Wash with Resolve Power Stain Remover into washer (no set amount)
5. Pour a capful of 2X ultra Tide with ColorClean Bleach Alternative into washer
6. Add stained laundry to washer and let agitate for 30 seconds, then turn it off
7. Soak clothing in the hot water for one hour, prewash, then reload with cleaners and wash normally

Everything came out clean!!!!! No crayon!!!!

While the laundry was soaking, I cleaned the dryer...here is the key to a crayon free dryer. Comet powder and an old, wet toothbrush! Make sure to wipe the dryer clean with a wet cloth and then run it with a wet towel in it. We had to take the dryer door off and the lint trap too, and it took a while, but it was ready for the jeans when they were finished.

Bubble gum and laundry do NOT mix...I have not found anything to get the gum free of the clothing. However, dried on gum in the dryer is no problem! Just spray down the gum spots (wait till the dryer is cool) with Goo Gone and let sit for a few minutes, then get out the trusty comet powder and old toothbrush and scrub away and wipe it clean.

I did have one horrible mishap with the laundry a few years back, that I will share. I put a load of towels in the dryer and killed our sweet cat! He never made a sound...my eldest found him in there. It was horrible! Cats and warm places! No cleaning will make you feel good about that dryer ever again! I now am very diligent about looking in the dryer first.

So, share your laundry mishaps and cures!

Something New, Something Different, Something Exciting!

2008-03-29T23:50:00.000-05:00

First things first! We are expecting a new baby. This little one will be due in mid-September. I am 16 weeks along with our 9th child. I would have been 36 weeks along with Jaden right now...20 weeks apart...1/2 a pregnancy. Yes, it still causes me to cry. Something new, something different, something exciting! Happy parenting!

This year has been the hardest for me so far. Homeschooling became a real struggle, and I had to cut back...ALOT! God has set something new before me...He has put it in front of me for a couple of years now, and I finally heard Him...ok, it took hitting a brick wall, but at least I hear Him now. Next year we will be using Tapestry of Grace. We will begin with Tapestry of Grace Year 1 Redesign. Everyone will be learning the exact same thing, just at their own level. This will be a real blessing after the school year we have had. Something new, something different, something exciting...and a little scary! Happy homeschooling!