MOMTEACHERFRIEND

Access

2011-02-18T08:38:00.005-05:00

We stumble through this world. Some of us, most of us, hurting in one way or another. Be it addiction, broken relationships, dysfunctional home life, sickness, lack of self-worth, rejection, frustration, despair, stress at work, confusion, memories of the past, lack of control, trying too much to control...the list goes on. Let's face it, in this world we will face troubles of many kinds. Last night I was challenged to ask myself what area of my life I needed to give God access. What area did I need to hand over to him?
Revelation 3:20 ²⁰ Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
It's not a question of whether or not God is interested in us. For He stands at the door, ready, waiting even for us to respond. Knocking...requesting access to our lives.
Yet we shut the door to certain areas of our lives. The areas most affected by our hurts, habits and hang-ups. Or wanting to control, we deny access to those things that we are certain we can handle on our own. Why must this be? It doesn't need to be.
Lord, I give you access.
To my life. To my marriage. To our homeschool. To this home. To my thoughts. To my actions.
Come on in.
Access granted.
How about you?

Sarah Speaks

2010-12-07T10:04:00.003-05:00

While I was silent here on the blog I was not so silent on FACEBOOK. Check out this glimpse of 2010 statuses.

Pilgrim Proclamation

2010-11-25T07:44:00.002-05:00

Inasmuch as the great Father has given us this year an abundant harvest of Indian corn, wheat, peas, beans, squashes, and garden vegetables, and has made the forests to abound with game and the sea with fish and clams, and inasmuch as he has protected us from the ravages of the savages, has spared us from pestilence and disease, has granted us freedom to worship God according to the dictates of our own conscience.
Now I, your magistrate, do proclaim that all ye Pilgrims, with your wives and ye little ones, do gather at ye meeting house, on ye hill, between the hours of 9 and 12 in the day time, on Thursday, November 29th, of the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred and twenty-three and the third year since ye Pilgrims landed on ye Pilgrim Rock, there to listen to ye pastor and render thanksgiving to ye Almighty God for all His blessings.
--William Bradford
Ye Governor of Ye Colony
After studying Pilgrims for the last month I have a new appreciation for this proclamation.

Kit Kittridge

2010-11-23T12:59:00.002-05:00

Who is Kit Kittridge?
Besides being an American girl doll and the star of a chapter book or even a movie star, she is my new best friend. Seriously, I love her!
A week ago my daughter picked up the American Girl books at the library. She quickly devoured book 1 of Molly. When she went back to the library she could not find book 2 so she got the Kit Kittridge series instead. Hooked I say. In three days she has read three books. But my joy is not that alone. Oh no! The true reason I love Kit Kittridge: She has turned by daughter onto writing .
In the books Kit is a nine year old growing up in the Depression. With the help of her typewriter she writes daily newspapers to her dad to fill him in on the happening of the day.
Little girl finished book one of the series and asked if she could do that too. Of course, she can write articles for a newspaper!
We hopped on the computer, sorry no typewriters at this house, figured out how to make a newsletter on Word and off she went. Within 24 hours she had written 5 articles for her News. She figured out how to add pictures and clip art, then discovered text wrap.
With a little help from spell check and her editor(me) she was ready for print.
I could not be more proud or excited!
She has already exclaimed to dad that he will be recieving a weekly newspaper. Woot woot.
See I told you I love Kit. And now you know the rest of the story.

I Will Write Love On My Arms

2010-11-12T17:45:00.003-05:00

If you have ever struggled with depression. If you have ever thought that this life was not worth living. If you have ever tried to take your life. If you have ever cut yourself. If you have ever struggled with addiction. If you have ever injured yourself. If you have ever been abused. If you ever feel alone...

KNOW YOU ARE LOVED. I have written LOVE on my arms FOR YOU!

Gratitude

2010-11-12T07:41:00.003-05:00

Last night, I had a great discussion about Gratitude.
No matter where you are in life. No matter what you are going through; you have SOMETHING to be grateful for. Whether it is something as simple and mundane as toothpaste. If you look for it I am sure you can find it. Are you breathing? Perhaps you are grateful to be alive. Are you sober? Then you are probably grateful for your clarity of mind. Do you have shelter over your head? Then maybe you are grateful to be warm.
I know I am grateful!
I was challenged last night to think of things I am grateful about in regards to God, people in my life, my growth and my church. Once I started the list flowed with true gratitude. I am blessed.
Somedays I don't always see the blessings. Somedays I am inclined to complain. Yet if I truly pause, I see that whatever it is that has me frustrated or discouraged is an obstacle that can be overcome. Even on my worst day I can give thanks, even if it is only for toothpaste.

Colossians 3:16
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

1 Chronicles 16:34
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Bobbitybobbitybobbity

2010-11-10T09:44:00.002-05:00

Yesterday for Math a stream of continuous and nonsense sound came from my son. Bobbitybobbitybobbitybobbity...for 10 minutes. I found it annoying at first and then I realized something. It was helping him.
Sometimes in our house Math can take a half hour other days in between standing on his head and sharpening pencils it can take an hour. Distractions abound and there are times the distractions are overwhelming. Focus.
So enter the bobbitybobbities and for once there were no other distractions. For 10 minutes he sat focused on his Math, as he sang he was doing his Math. and people say men can't do two things at once.
Here was the boys journal yesterday:
Mommy, can I please sing at my desk? It helps me and (my sister) focus very much. I know that it makes you kinda mad but I would really love to. I would like to sing while I do Math. When I sing it gets the pressure off of me so I can focus better. Thank you very ,very much. Love, (Your son)

Who am I am to argue with that? In fact we just completed day two of singing during math and guess what? He finished 40 problems in LESS than 10 minutes! A miracle. A singing miracle.
Bobbitybobbitybobbity- Now if only that would help me accomplish all I need to do.

Excess

2010-11-10T07:51:00.003-05:00

I had a dream this morning.
In my dream, the kids and I were at a pond with fishing line, hooks and a small bucket.
The fish were more than biting they were jumping on our lines. As soon as we would take one of and throw it in the bucket another one was on the line. It was frenzied fishing. In no time at all I looked over to see the bucket was overflowing and fish we piling up , flapping around on the ground.
Now from previous experience I know that fish need oxygen to live and even in a bucket they can die from lack of oxygen. So I frantically try to put them back in a bucket looking around for something bigger. I look over and a large storage tote is there. I begin dumping out the contents to "save" the fish. I don't know why we were fishing. I don't know what we intended to do with the fish. They were all small and most likely not keepers yet here I was trying to keep everyone.
In the midst of me trying to get the space, God spoke, "Why the excess?"
I love it when God speaks. Even in dreams God speaks to me. I knew immediately what this one meant.
The fish is stuff. Small. Insignificant stuff. Piling up and multiplying before my eyes and rather than throw it back or getting rid of it I try to cram it into the corners of my home. Excess. Unnecessary excess.
Thank you Lord for blessing me. Help me to get rid of the excess and keep only what I need.

How Granola Are You?

2010-04-22T07:43:00.006-04:00

Many years ago when my children were still babies, I was told I was granola crunchy. Which according to the Urban Dictionary means; crunchy granola Noun. A person who is lives in a healthy, green, vegetarian way. This person often supports Greenpeace and other such environmental and anti-war groups.
Now at the time I was in no way a true granola crunchy, I considered myself more...oatmeal. I had home births, I breast-fed my babies and I was moving in a direction of healthy living for me and my children. But Greenpeace, anti-war...not so much.
This morning I was pondering where I was on the scale; was I moving towards frosted flakes or more toward granola. Since there are no guidelines and the definition of crunchy granola is ever changing, I decided to set up a little survey to gauge us all. Its a simple little test really. With point values...so keep track.
Choose one for each category or skip to the next if it does not apply. Men feel free to count your household choices on the ones that apply to women. If multiple choices are true for you, choose the highest point value for that topic. Here goes...
If you...

Had a natural childbirth in the hospital (+1) gave birth in a birth center (+2) at home (+3)

Breast-fed your baby (+1) 6 months or more (+2) a year or more (+3) a potty trained child (+4)

Used cloth diapers (+1) Until the child was potty trained (+2) Carried around a potty to train your infant (under a year old) (+3)

Carried your babies around with a sling or carrier (+1) toddler (+2)

Co-sleep during infancy (+1) as a toddler (+2) Can't remember the last time you had no children in your bed (+3)

Made your own baby food (+1) Never bought store baby food (+2)

Chose not to circumcise your son (+2)

Use a DO rather than a MD (+1) Chose not to vaccinate (+2)

Use herbals for most medical issues (+1)

Are a Vegetarian (+1) Vegan (+2) Eat only raw uncooked foods (+3)

Garden (+1) Organic gardener (+2) Eat only food that does not come from a super market (+3)

Have a specialized diet for at least one member of your household i.e gluten-free (+1)

Make your own bread (+1) Make your own granola (+2)

Can your own produce (+1) 3 or more varieties (+2)

Buy organic food (+1) Exclusively organic (+2)

Sew or knit clothes for your family (+1)

Recycle (+1) Conscientious cut down on household trash (+2)

Used alternative fuel ie. vegetable oil (+1)

Compost (+1) Vermiculture (+2)

Raise chickens (+1) Free range chickens (+2)

Raise livestock (+1) organically or hormone free (+2)

Have a beehive (+1)

Bring your own bags to the grocery store (+1) Make your own bags to take to the grocery store (+2)

Make your own laundry soap (+1) Make all household cleaning products (+2)

Have participated in an earth day clean-up (+1) Pick-up litter not on earth day (+2)

Are a member of wild life association (+1)

Are a member of La Leche League (+1)

Written your congressman (+1) Attended a Tea Party or other public demonstration (+2)

Home school (+1) Charlotte Mason Sytle (+2) Unschool (+3)

Prefer to be barefoot (+1)

Laughed your way through this survey because it was all to familiar (+1)

So...How granola are you?
Out of possible 61 points
0-5 Fruit Loops
6-10 Frosted Flakes
11-20 Cheerios
21-30 Oatmeal
31-40 Granola
41-50 Granola Crunchy
51+ You are the crunchiest granola ever

HAPPY EARTH DAY EVERY ONE!!!
Post your results in the comments.

Check It Out

2010-04-16T23:42:00.002-04:00

A month or so ago I decided to contribute to our church, Family, Faith and Fun blog.
You can find my latest post here: http://trinityfamilylife.blogspot.com/2010/04/minute-to-win-it-fun .html
Enjoy!

Another Exciting Day

2010-04-06T16:14:00.003-04:00

Lately the weather has been ABSOLUTELY gorgeous! Needless to say we have been trying to make the most of it.
Yesterday we decided to pack a picnic lunch and head over to Hawk Island. We ate, played, walked the board walk and soaked in the sunshine as the ducks swam out on the lake.

Since it was Babler's birthday we decided to go to on of her favorite places...The Dairy Farm.
And lo and behold, we go to see yet another birth. This one was a boy. :( So it won't be staying on the farm but we named him anyway. Introducing Axe. Hopefully this is not a foreshadowing of his fate.

Regardless he is a cute little thing with a white heart on his forehead.

Looking for something to do? Check out the MSU farms. The horses, cows and sheep are all expecting little ones. Oh and it's FREE!

Jolly Grove Garden- Sod Removal

2010-04-02T09:29:00.000-04:00

I must tell you! Things are happening at the Jolly Grove Community Garden. We knew going in that this garden had some remarkable connections as it is a collaboration of the Land Bank, South Lansing Community Development Association(SLCDA) and the Garden Project. Recently, we acquired yet another corporate association as Comcast has chosen the Jolly Grove Garden as a recipient for their Comcast Cares Day. This means that we will be holding a workday sponsored by Comcast where things are truly going to come together and make this plot of land into a garden.
In order for the site to be ready for the workday we had to lay out the plots and remove the sod. With the BEAUTIFUL weather the leadership of the garden decided to act fast while the ground was ready. Here is what got done on April 1st.
Here is the site first thing in the morning.

Some picked up trash.

Some picked up sticks.

While others measured out the plots.

Then with the land prepped, we used the sod cutter to remove the sod.

Here is the boy rolling the sod.

Mounds and mounds of sod. By 3:00 we were finished and all plots were defined and the sod was removed and rolled.

The crazy crew feeling victorious! 8D

It was a wonderful day, with much being accomplished.

Now, we are looking forward to April 24th; the Comcast Cares Day. Where we will install the fence posts, fence, build a shed and benches, put up the sign and perhaps even plant some flowers. Woohoo!

Highlights of Meijer Garden 2010

2010-04-01T11:47:00.000-04:00

With the butterflies flying at Meijer Garden we joined our homeschool co-op on a visit.
I must say the diversity of the plants and flowers there is amazing. I must also state that the following pictures were taken by my mother, who did a fabulous job. Thanks mom!

Cactus

Pitcher Plants

My beautiful butterflies.

Butterflies all around in the aviary.

How many butterflies can you find on this one plant?

Don't forget to look for the birds...here is a blue one, an orange one and a yellow one.

Jailed? Not really, they are enjoying the kids gate of the Children's Garden.

Butterfly dress-up.

Archeological dig.

When we did our sculpture study back in January we studied Marshall Fredrick. After reading, The Outdoor Museum: The Magic of Michigan's Marshall M. Fredericks, we fell in love with his work. We even visited his museum. So we were delighted to revisit so many of his sculptures at Meijer Garden.
Here is the Leaping Gazelle...

Which is actually a fountain.

More Marshall Fredrick.

Red-Tailed Hawk looking for lunch.

Davinci's Horse...we were highly anticipating this sculpture after reading Leonardo's Horse by Jean Fritz

I absolutely LOVE the expression of the grandfathers face.

What kind of bird do you think might hatch from these?

Strike a pose.

Hope you enjoyed our trip to Meijer Garden as much as we did.

Face to Face With a Butterfly

2010-03-17T11:20:00.006-04:00

The butterflies are back at MSU gardens.
The thing I love about the butterflies at MSU besides the fact that it is free, is you can get up close and personal.
My boy face to face with a Zebra butterfly.

You can hold them just remember to never touch their wings.

It's best to dip your fingers in sugar water and hold your finger in front of them. They will climb on and you will get a close look at your favorite butterfly.

Chrysalis await to emerge and newly emerged butterflies dry their wings. In a few more weeks you will be able to see all 4 stages of a butterfly as eggs are laid and caterpillars can be found on some of the plants.

While there we always go on a hunt for tree frogs. Hint look on the cement wall and the large tree by the pond.

Next we head out to play in the Children's Garden. While there are not many plants in bloom, there is still plenty to do.

Yesterday we had perfect sunshine for testing out the sundial.
4:20pm

If you haven't been, I highly recommend the MSU Children's Garden and Butterfly House!
Don't forget there is parking fees during the week. Not sure about the weekends this year.

I Am Carrying On a Great Project and I Can Not Come Down!

2010-03-14T11:31:00.006-04:00

One day last summer a couple of girls rode their bikes past our home. They stopped to chat with us.
The next day they came back. An hour later we had 10 kids in our back yard.
The next day we had 12. Upon finding out that we homeschool some asked if I would teach them during the Summer. I agreed.
Nearly everyday for the remainder of the Summer I had kids coming over. Most would do some sort of school. Some wanted to do Spelling, while others wanted challenges in Math. Others wanted to play basketball or skate. What they really wanted? Someone who cared about them. A safe place to play without worry. A snack and a friend.
So our family became the caring face and listening ear. Our home and yard became the safe place; we played basketball, let them ride our skates and our bikes. We would dish out snacks and we definitely made friends.
One girl in particular would stop by nearly every day. Before long I noticed a spark about her. I knew she had faith. One day the Holy Spirit nudged me to ask her what she prayed for. So I did. I will always remember her answer.
"I pray that my friends and I will be safe!"
I knew God had called me to open my home to these kids and I now I knew why. Our home, our family was a direct answer to her prayers.
Fall came. Kids went back to school. Temperatures dropped and the kids came around less and less.
All except Taylor!

She would come over every now and then. We had tea parties, played school and board games. Before long she was joining us on trips to the YMCA. So we helped her get a scholarship so that she could come with us every time. Eventually pretty much everywhere we went Taylor came too. And then Chi.
Chi started coming over with Taylor and we loved on her as well. Sharing meals, conversations, games, trips to the Y; life.

They have joined us on skiing trips, trips to the animal farms, parks, the circus and the Youth Gardening Conference.

Here is a picture of Taylor getting over her fear of snakes at Nature Discoveries Go Wild weekend.

These girls have become more than my neighbors, they are my adopted daughters.

I am carrying on a great project and it is this; TO LOVE MY FAMILY AND TRAIN THEM UP TO BE FULLY FUNCTIONING CITIZENS! AND TO LOVE MY NEIGHBORS! FEEDING THEM, LOVING THEM, TEACHING THEM, NURTURING THEM AND ACCEPTING THEM AS THEY ARE AS IF THEY WERE MY OWN.
I am carrying on a great project and I can not come down!
My desire for this year is to involve my new family in something productive and rewarding. So we will be starting a youth community garden a couple of blocks away from my house. Together we will dig up the earth, plant seeds, weed and water. We will see the fruits of our labor. I will pour into them in every way possible. I hope to teach them more than how a plant grows. I hope to show them how they too can grow into productive people. I hope to show them that they will be known by their actions as either good fruit or bad, the choice is theirs. I hope to see them succeed both in gardening and in life. The teacher in me hopes they will learn great things. The mother in me hopes they will know they are loved. The neighbor in me hopes we can be a positive light to our community.

Today in church I learned that Nehemiah was in the midst of rebuilding the wall, doing a great work that God called him to do, while others tried to call him away from the work. His response every time was, "I am carrying on a great project and cannot go(come) down." He kept to the work God called him to do and did not let the opposition steer him away.

I take from that this; I will not be called away from my calling to care for these kids. Be it two or twenty. Even when I get crazy looks and glances when I arrive somewhere with my "Gaggle of children." Even when I struggle to transport them to the various things we may do. Even when life happens and they go through hard times, especially then. Even when my garage door gets beat up from skates banging into it. Even when the pantry is thin. Even if our vegetables refuse to grow or the labor is hard.
Even then... I am carrying on a great project and I can not come down!

Casulties of Winter; Spoils of Winter

2010-03-13T07:56:00.010-05:00

Monday, March 8th, 2010
The weather outside was sunny and 50 degrees. Whenever the temperatures begin to rise the bees once again become active. I decided to head out to the hive and see how things were going. When I got there I found dead bees on the ledge and no activity. So I took a screwdriver and brushed away the dead bees trying to create an opening for the bees to fly in and out. Except they was no activity. Nothing!
Opening up the hive, my suspicion were confirmed the bees DID NOT SURVIVE the Winter.

THOUSANDS DEAD! Casualties of Winter...

Here is the bottom of the hive were you can see layers of dead bees.

Since the bees were gone, we got to take the spoils. We told them in the Fall; Use it or lose it!
They did not use it all so we brought the hive boxes inside to extract the honey.

Here is a full frame of honey.

With a heated knife we scrapped of the wax cappings.

Then placed them in the extractor. Spin spin spin...

Once extracted we poured the honey off into a strainer.

The strainer bulging with honey.

Honey bears waiting to be filled.

The whole family took turns filling the bears and jars.

Honey anyone?

15 little honey bears all in a row. This here is about 10lbs of honey.

In all we got about 23lbs of...Sweet liquid GOLD!

Yummy, yummy honey!

Tween Trust

2010-03-06T08:09:00.002-05:00

In a state much like Michigan, in a city much like Lansing in a car much like my own, a conversation took place between a woman and a tween. While the details of this conversation will remain confidential, the woman in this situation felt there was much to be said on the matter.
You see it boiled down to broken trust. And while trust had not been broken with the woman, she feared that trust was being broken in other relationships of this dear tween.
So here is the advice the woman shared with the tween:
Communicate with you parents. Speak truth to them. Even if you feel that you will disappoint them or be disciplined it is easier to come clean than to break trust. For once trust is broken it is a very hard thing to regain.
In regards to this tween who is highly trusted, the woman reminded her of all her privileges. Weekly trips to the skating rink, money for a variety of activities, roaming of the neighborhood to play with whomever the tween chose, a trust that she is where she says she is and because this is so she is allowed to do so.
The moment trust is broken all of this changes! The moment a parent finds out they have been lied to or blatantly disobeyed it all changes! They will question every request you make. They will follow-up on every place you say you will go. They will refuse you certain privileges and activities not knowing who will be there and whether or not they can trust you to make the best decisions.
TRUST IS A PRECIOUS THING MY FRIENDS...DON'T LET IT BE BROKEN.

Our Intro to Community Gardens

2010-03-05T15:18:00.003-05:00

As a child I hated vegetables. I know hate is a strong word but when it came to vegetables it adequately communicated how I felt about them. With the exception of carrots, corn and ketchup I fought every bite my parents forced me to take.
As an adult I was a vegetarian for 2 years; exploring all types and varieties of vegetables. Slowly over time I learned to love them. Even my childhood nemesis, green beans!
At this stage in my life it appears I am entering yet a new level with the green earth and that which it produces. I, my friends, will be involved this year in a community garden.
Last month I got word of a meeting for those interested in starting a community garden on the Southside. After seeing the Hunter Park garden and all the positive stuff happening on that side of town, I was definitely interested so I attended.
I was encourage, inspired and über excited!
I began seeing this as a way for my neighborhood kids to get outdoors. Learn about nature. Take pride in growing their own food. Having a safe place to hang out and do something productive. I began to dream.
The kids and I attended the Youth Gardening Conference where we gained an immense amount of information. Two of my adopted neighborhood kids came along too. We were all hooked and definitely wanted to do this community garden thing ourselves.

Tomorrow is another planning meeting for the Southside community garden which will be located at the corner of Jolly and Pleasent Grove across from the firestation. If you find yourselves in this area and our interested in joining our efforts and vision casting yourself, JOIN US! Let's make a positive change in our neighborhoods.

Community Garden Interest Meeting Saturday, March 6, 1-2:30 p.m., Lansing Fire Dept. Station #6 Community Room (5135 Pleasant Grove Road)

For those in the greater Lansing area, call the Garden Project to find a garden near you. Literally 20-40 gardens are in the works in and around Lansing. Chances are there is one near you!
To contact the Garden Project you can email gardenproject@ingham.org or call anytime! (517) 887-4660

How about you? Are you involved in home or community gardens? I would love to hear what you are doing.

Saturday Afternoon Skiing

2010-02-28T14:12:00.004-05:00

Inspired by the Olympics we decided to try out Cross Country Skiing at Birchfield Park.
We suited up, rented skis and hit the trail.

The boy was a natural. Easily finding his rhythm and conquering the hills.

Little girl found her balance and plugged away. The first challenge we had was "Duck Walking" up our first hill. Which she did. She even made it down rather well.

My sweet 'adopted' daughters joined us as well. The first 15 minutes or so were rough but by the middle of the course we were all staying on our feet.

Our clan...I propped the camera on a post and scooted over to get in the picture.

It was a beautiful sunny day to hit the snowy trails.

Victory! We made it.

We totally enjoyed it and will be doing it again soon.

My American Idol Top 12 Picks

2010-02-25T09:00:00.002-05:00

The Ladies
1 Crystal Bowersox
2 Didi Benami
3 Katie Stevens
4 Katelyn Epperly
5 Lily Scott
6 Siobhan Magnus

The Guys
1 Casey James
2 Andrew Garcia
3 Big Mike Lynch
4 Alex Lambert
5 Todrick Hall
6 Lee DeWyze

Something Beautiful

2010-02-24T15:43:00.003-05:00

It was a day like any other. It was a night I never wish to forget.
Every other Monday our family joins together with others for small group. A time of encouraging one another in faith, teaching, prayer and fellowship. Still in it's formative stage, we have decided to do a study called, Faith Begins at Home by Mark Holmen. I highly recommend it as it is an excellent read but more importantly, it is changing our home.
Upon returning home from small group it could have been like any other night. The Olympics were on and I could have easily settled myself in front of the TV, cheering on Team USA. My husband had another plan. A challenge.
It went like this. He challenged the kids to find every bible in the house that they could find. For the next ten minutes we searched every room, pulling bibles off of book shelves, head boards, out of desks, and bins. Then we gathered in the living room with all that we had discovered. What happened next will be a cherished moment for the rest of my life!
He asked the kids to tell where they had found each bible, who it belonged to and the last time it was read. WOW! They varied in their locations found, in whom they belonged to and the last time they were read. One had been opened that day, another a week past, but more likely months and some well over a year. Then my dear husband, whom I was falling more and more in love with as this evening past, asked each kid to share 3 stories they knew from the bible. Daniel and the Lion's Den, David and Goliath, Noah's Ark, Isaac's Blessing and Jesus Walking on the Water. Then mom and dad shared the stories that came to our minds. And for 30 minutes plus as a family we shared. Remember the time...Jesus turned water into wine, the fisherman cast their nets and Jesus told them to throw it on the other side....AND when they did there were A TON of fish. or the time that Jesus took the little boy's bread and fish...how many was it...2 and 5 ...2 fish and 5 bread??? On and on the stories poured out from the hearts of my family members. Twinkling eyes as details we told. Love overflowing. Reacquainted with old friends in the Word. It truly was something beautiful.
As the night came to an end my husband issued his next challenge, find stories in the Bible they wanted to know more about; Jonah and the Whale...do you want to imagine what it was like living inside the whale? What would it have felt like, smelled like, looked like? What does the Bible say?
With full hearts the kids were sent to bed.
The next morning...My son woke up and the first thing he did bless his heart was grab his Bible. Opening it to Genesis 1:1, he began to read. He read and read until I pried him away to eat some breakfast. As soon as he was finished eating, he went back to his chair, picked the Bible back up and continued on. School time came and he looked at me with hungry eyes, "Mom, can I still read my Bible?" My heart melted and any Math lesson that could have been on the days schedule was suddenly insignificant. Suddenly I found myself in that moment that I have always prayed for. I ditched the seat work and made a deal; as long as he was reading the Bible he did not have to do any seat work for the day. At any time he could stop reading, it was up to him. He chose to read. My reluctant reader CHOSE to read! For over 3 hours the boy read. Making his way through Genesis, creation, Adam and Eve, the fall of man, Cain and Abel, the genealogy to Noah, the Flood, the covenant of the rainbow and the son's of Noah. He read 10 complete chapters. Calling out excitedly during different parts of his reading. "MOM, did you know Adam lived to be 930 YEARS OLD!" Me thinking that maybe I could slip a little bit of math into his morning called back, "Can you even count by 10's to 930?" He can and he did remarking, "THAT'S OLD!"
Long ago it used to be that a child was taught to read for one reason and one reason alone, so that they may be able to read for themselves the Word of God. It used to be that the only book a family owned was the family Bible. Now it seems to be a book of many, hidden away on a shelf or lost under a layer of dust. May it never again be true for this house.
I went to a homeschool conference just a few weeks ago and during it I was reminded, all that we need to know can be found in the Bible. Reading, Math, Science, Geology, History, Geography, Family Relations, Sex Ed, Health, Genealogy, Manners, Morals...the list is long. If we accomplish nothing else this school year I will be content in this. My son has found a love for the Word of God and this is yet again something beautiful!

Finding My Voice

2010-02-24T07:59:00.002-05:00

It seems for so long I have been silent. When I speak it is in short snippets on a facebook status.
I feel like I have been on a train ride headed towards some wonderful destination but never quite reaching it. At each stop along the way giving a quick update and then getting back on the train to ride through life.

It's not that the last few months have been bad. It's not that I have not had things to say. It's more that I lost my passion. I lost my focus. I lost my voice.

I have to say that right now, this week, this day, this moment, God is doing a miraculous work in my heart, in my life and my home. I think I am finding my voice.

Watch out blogosphere....I do believe I'm back!

Break Through

2009-10-23T14:01:00.002-04:00

My daughter, usually shy, shared show and tell today. Woo Hoo!
Usually she hides or stands there saying nothing. Not today. Today she shared. :)

Ecology Day

2009-10-23T08:03:00.003-04:00

This semester we have been focusing on Stewardship; using and not abusing all that God has given us. Our bodies, money, possessions, time, talents, the Earth and natural resources. This week the focus was on Ecology and how we can be better stewards of the Earth.
Yesterday was what we called Ecology Day. A field trip into Ecology. Here is what we did-
In the morning we used the A-Z guide to Helping the Planet. It discussed all sort of practical ways to make small changes. Some highlights included fix leaky pipes and faucets. We took a jar and placed it under an intentional leak in the kitchen sink. In a half hours time we had 5 cups of water. Times that by 24 hours and you are potentially losing/paying for gallons of water a day. Reduce- use less, Reuse- find ways to get multiple uses out of an item and Recycle. Keep lights off when not in a room. Keep the refrigerator door shut. Use cloth bags when shopping and shop wiser, looking for for eco-friendly items and paying attention to packaging. See who else is here on the planet. We made a diagram of a pond and drew pictures of all the critters that live there. Then we added the animals that use the pond for their water source and the birds that feed there. Then we drew in some people polluting and talked about the effects on everyone. Needless to say our discussions were fun and interesting.
Then it was time for the field trip. Since I wanted to get the kids thinking about how small changes can be effective we chose to do ALL travel for the day by either bus or foot.
The bus- The boy researched which bus stop to use and what time it departed. Thankfully we have 3 different choices and the one we chose took about 7 minutes to walk to. Along the way we picked up trash. When we first got on the bus there were only a few people but as we worked our way downtown it slowly filled. We talked about bus etiquette, how the bus works, emergency exits, requesting stops and all sorts of other interesting things. After 25 minutes we arrived into the Transporatation Center, the hub of all buses in our area. We checked out the huge map and were impressed by the fact that you can get practically anywhere by bus. Then we had a short walk to Impression 5/Creation Station. Along the way we continued on with our trash pick-up. By the time we arrived to our destination, the bag was full. We took off our gloves, washed our hands and ate our lunch. Then since we were early we decided to head up to Impression 5 and explore for a few minutes. We checked out the water pollution display in the water works room. Talking about water sources and keeping them safe from pollution. Confession here: I think alot of times when we go to Impressions 5 we go from one fun activity to another and rarely take time to actually do a display or read the info. Yesterday we were able to squeeze in a few of the infomational displays as well as do lots of the "fun stuff."
With 12:30 drawing near we headed back downstairs to Creation Station, our recycle store. The awesome coordinator of craft day, my mom, had set -up tons of miscellaneous recycled items. Our other Konos friends arrived and we had Imagination Craft Day. Were we let the kids create using the recycled items. Fun! If you have never been to Creation Station, I highly recommend a visit. If you have arts and crafts project you will be amazed at how many items they have. We have a bag at our house just for collecting items to go to Creation Station. What was that about reuse and recycle? Check.
With rain coming down outside, the afternoon trash pick-up with friends was canceled. Instead the kids went back up to Impression 5 and explored together. Good times.
Then it was onto the Farmer's Market, buy local, buy seasonal. We picked out some produce and treats. Yum!
Then it was off to Preuss' Animal House. To check out who else we are sharing this planet with. It was a bit of a walk from the market to the pet shop and it was sprinkling but the kids were having fun.
Our return trip, we learned how to transfer buses and the boy got to pull the yellow "stop requested" cord.
We weren't even off the bus when the kids both asked, "When do we GET to ride the bus again?" I think the word get through me at first. Often times riding the bus has a stigma attached. My kids saw it as a priviledge, as fun and exciting. I have to admit, I enjoyed it as well. Perhaps would not even mind doing it more often.
Thanks for joining us on our adventure!
Any ideas, books or videos you would like to share about Ecology would be warmly recieved.

Temperaments!

2009-10-21T21:55:00.003-04:00

No not tempers, temperaments. You know, Sanguine, Phlegmatic, Choleric and Melancholic.
In my parenting class this week we were asked to figure out the temperament of each member of our family. We were given a list of strengths and weaknesses.
Sanguine- Enthusiastic, expressive, talkative, sense of humor, cheerful and bubbling over. Dominates conversations, interrupts, disorganized, sel-centered and doesn't follow through.

Phlegmatic- Low-key, easy going, calm, cool, collected, patient, kind, steady, agreeable, mediates well. Appears lazy, lacks initiative, resists change, indecisive, procrastinates and stubborn.

Choleric- Born leader, decisive, dynamic, powerful, strong-willed, thrives on opposition, confident, quick to action and can run anything. Thinks they are never wrong, knows the right answer, holds others to a higher standard than themselves, won't admit when wrong, manipulative, impatient, bossy and must always be in control.

Melancholy- Deep, thoughtful, analytical, serious, purposeful, talented, creative, idealistic, self-sacrificing, schedule oriented, perfectionist, well organized. Judgmental, self-focused, easily depressed, takes things personally, negative in responses and puts unrealistic demands on others.

Right off it was easy to determine my children. My boy is Sanguine. My girl is Choleric.
Determining mine and my husband proved to be a little more tricky. We read and reread through the list and could not quite settle on one. Since Google is my friend ( I should hit Google up with a friend request on facebook) I Googled temperament test. Low and behold, there were free test online. I took this one here. The result was pretty much a blend of all four with 9 points for a Phlegmatic, 8 points for Choleric and 7 each for the other two. Which explains why I saw strengths and weaknesses of each in myself. Then hubby took it and was a solid Phlegmatic with a secondary in Melancholy.
Another test said I was Sanguine with a secondary in Phlegmatic. So I guess the verdict is still out on me.
Anyway, in class tonight we discussed how this plays out in the home. For example: My Choloric daughter has to "feel" like she has some control of situations. She must feel heard and understood. She is strong-willed and will assert herself. Just this week she was being disciplined and was told to sit on her bed. Dad gave no room for discussion and was swift in placing her there. For the next 20 minutes she repeated over and over, "Mom" "MOM" "Mooooom." "I want to talk to mommy." "Mommy do you hear me, come talk to me now." I did hear her yet under my husbands instruction was staying quiet. She was relentless. Once she realized she could not control daddy's decision she faught for control of any kind and started calling the dog.
The very next day we had a mini replay of the same scene. Where she repeated over and over, wanting to be heard. "I need to tell you something." Seems convient that everytime she is disciplined, she is bursting with things that she MUST say RIGHT THEN. It boils down to control. And she wants it.
Through this we realized something very important about our daughter. She needs to be heard. Unless she feels heard she can not, will not, listen to anything anyone else has to say. So my husband hit upon a brilliant idea. He said, "Go give her some paper and a pencil and have her write whatever she needs to say. Then go back in a couple minutes and get whatever she has written." It worked beautifully.
Her notes read, "Moms are the best"
"Mom I do love you."
"I love you mom rile mom i love you."
"My and you biy big mom"
Not the message I expect but from a voice that needed to be heard. Needless to say I think we will continue to implement this approach. Perhaps even a journal specifically for that purpose. In light of tempraments it helps knowing what their tendancies are and maybe some of the motivation behind it.
This site here was awesome in explaining the strenghs and weaknesses of each. It is set-up for adults but my friend and I quickly realized that parents can be interpreted for a kid to be in the family, at work would translate to at school and with friends is applicable at any age.

So how about you? What is your temprament? Your children's tempraments? How does this play out in your home?

Birthday Party

2009-10-15T20:45:00.000-04:00

Little girl's 6th birthday she wanted a castle cake. She wanted to be a princess. And she wanted her party at Chuck E. Cheese. Let's just say my mother-in-law is amazing. She made the cake. The dress-up bin provided our princess and Chuck E Cheese it was.
Cinderella and her castle.

A closer look at the cake. Again my MIL is AMAZING!! The cake was awesome and delicious.

Sweet! Money...

Our traditional photo sketch

Happy 6th Birthday

2009-10-14T20:15:00.000-04:00

Hey There Sweetie,

You made it to six. It seems like we have been here for awhile already but the reality is, you are just now six. I guess to me you seem older than your actual age. Gone are the little kid shows as you have moved onto Hannah Montana and The Suite Life of Zach and Cody. Gone are the jammies with footies. Gone are the Little People. It's happened, you have grown. Nowadays you pass your time dancing, singing, playing house with your babies and reading.

In school you are now excelling in first grade. You read with ease. Workbooks? You love them. Math and Phonics are your favorite subjects. In the last year we have studied Indians, Pioneer Life, Horses, Our Bodies and Ecology. Many adventures, many good times. We saw a few more cow births this year. Some were triumphant(Victory and Jaclyn), others were sad(Teacup and Rocky). I will always treasure those moments of life and death at the Dairy Farm. It seems to be our special place.

In life you are daily fighting the fear of being alone. Somedays it seems like you can conquer the world and the next you won't go anywhere out of my sight. I pray that you let go of the fear and step victoriously into God's plan for your life. You often pray, "Dear Jesus, Guard us, protect us and keep us safe. Help us to have good dreams." He is always near you. Never forget that. I trust in time you will develop your wings and fear not. You have such leadership built into you. Once you find your voice, you are going to change this world.

In the past year you learned to swim. Once you realized you were tall enough for the waterslide, you put your attention to learning how to swim. With determination you practiced until one day you were doing it. What joy when you accomplished your goal. Never stop setting goals. For you are one to do what you set out to do. So set your dreams high and work hard. Little girl you will go far.

Giggle girl, may you always find joy in simple things. Snuggle bug, may you always have time to spend with the ones you love. Pumpkin pie, may you develop all the skills you will need in the coming year. Sweet girl, while I love who you are in this moment I know you will continue to grow. Everyday learning. Everyday changing ever so slightly. In the things you say. The things you do.

I love you!
Happy birthday!
Mom

Day Off

2009-10-12T18:25:00.002-04:00

This weekend was jammed pack with field trips, fun and learning. We did go to the Color Tour, Archaeology Day and Crane Fest(twice). So today I declared that we would take the day off of school.
The only exception was that we would watch no TV nor play on the computer. If we got bored, then we would do school. Ha! Like that was going to happen.
We played Monolpoly. I won!
We made Puppy Chow. It was yummy.
The boy made beeswax candles.
We played Whoonu. Three times.
We played Sorry. The boy won.
Overall, we enjoyed each others company and did some stuff that normally gets overlooked.
Oh yeah and I cleaned. Yeah the house is still clean.

I think we need to do this kind of thing more often.

One Thing I Know

2009-10-11T08:01:00.002-04:00

I love love love this song.

What's an Atlatl???

2009-10-10T23:04:00.006-04:00

That's what I was thinking when we pulled into the parking lot of the historical museum. My nephew had wondered if an atlatl would be at Archaeology Day. As much as I love words I don't think I had ever heard of an atlatl, ever. Remarkably, there were atlatls at the event and the guys had a blast trying them out.
Oh and for the record an atlatl is a tool used to propel a dart(spear)

I admit I tried it out too. But my throws were terribly lacking.

When we went inside we visited the old times games room where we made Sawbuzzers. Take a button and a piece of string and soon you will have over an hour of simple fun.

While at Archaeolgy Day we saw many interesting things. Talked to interesting people.
My personal favorite was this guy.

He hand crafts ALL of his own hunting tools. Arrowheads, spears, baskets...all sorts of amazing things.
Like these arrowheads. Yep. He made them.

With said tools he has successfully hunted deer, squirrel, rabbit, coyote and carribou. Amazing!

Currently in our local theater the free kids movie of the week is Night at the Museum 2. Last night hubby took the boy to see it. Just in time to come across this...

Hey there Jedidiah.

After touring the museum, we headed back out to the atlatls. And my nephew scored this kill.

Needless to say, the atlatl was the biggest hit of Archaeology Day for the boys. They are trying to see if they can make their own. Thanks to wikihow..perhaps they will.
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Simple-Atlatl

There you have it our morning at Archaeology Day. Soon to come- Our evening at Crane Fest.

Let It Rain

2009-10-09T21:16:00.003-04:00

Today we had plans to attend an outdoor festival. Visions of sunshine and fall colors danced through my head. Instead we were met with rain. Drizzling, wet rain.
Rather than let it get in the way of our plans we went anyway.
We watched ladies make sauerkraut, fresh apples being hand-pressed, civil war reenacters, a black smith and visited the animals in the 4-H tent. Not too shabby of a day.
Sure we had on hats, mittens and coats but that did not deter us. If anything it made me appreciate it more. There were no long lines or pushing and shoving to see what was happening. It also made me realize that soldiers in the civil war didn't get to choose whether or not they stayed inside due to the weather.
Are we raising a generation of fair weather friends? Are we raising our kids to stay inside and only go out if the conditions are ideal? I have come to realize that if I continue to wait for ideal, I will waste a lot of time waiting. I would much rather live life. So let it rain.
The best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain. ~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

A Weekend of Choices

2009-10-08T17:54:00.004-04:00

Never before have we had so many options to choose from for a single weekend.
Let's just say our weekend is going to be packed and it is all going to be FUN FUN FUN! Which is a good thing because our Konos theme of the week is...Fun!

So for those of you who may be interested in what opportunities are available to you this weekend, here you go:

The 29th annual Color Cruise and Island Festival will take place on Island Park in downtown Grand Ledge on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 9, 10, and 11 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Visitors will be able to see demonstrations of black kettle caramel corn, apple cider pressing, blacksmithing, weaving, spinning, wood carving and other old time activities. Visit a fur trader encampment, enjoy good food and live entertainment and take a covered wagon or boat ride. Children can visit the petting zoo, paint a pumpkin or dip a candle for a small fee.Click Here for the Color Cruise Brochure

The admission price is $3.00 for adults (seniors $2.00 Friday only) and $1.00 for children and is good for all three days.

Crane Fest- Saturday and Sunday from 12-7pm
Bellevue Michigan $3 parking no admission fee.

Watch hundreds of sand hill cranes come into the Baker sanctuary while enjoying an afternoon of good old fashion fun. Check out last years blog posts for more details. Highly recommended!

Michigan Archaeology Day Saturday October 10, 200911 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Michigan Historical Museum, Lansing FREE

Here is your chance to meet professional archaeologists, to learn of their research and adventures and to see one-day-only exhibits from their archaeological digs and underwater archaeological explorations. Add to this a cartload of fun family activities, and by the end of the day, everyone will "dig" history! And again it is FREE!

Wharton Center Open House- Sunday October 11th 12-4pm

Wharton Center will host an open house from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday to commemorate the completion of $18.5 million in renovations and expansions.

Self-guided tours of the Cobb Great Hall and Pasant Theatre are among the open house’s events, as well as viewings of the rehearsal studio and stars’ dressing rooms.

Refreshments will be served at the open house and participants will have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win tickets to Wharton Center events. The event is free to the public.

There you have it, interesting things to do. Let me know if you are planning on attending any or all of these events.

Perhaps we shall see you there. :)

Welcome Back Blogger!

2009-10-08T07:50:00.002-04:00

You know when you go to an amusement park and you ride a roller coaster. The friendly college student running the ride always, without fail, says,"Welcome Back Riders! We hope you enjoyed your ride."
Well, I have to say I did not intend to ride away from blogging for the Summer. It just kinda happened. While living life, I lost time to blog. But trust me life has been happening. We have had moments of triumph, death, diagnosis, growth and learning. It makes me kinda sad to not have each of these precious moments documented for me to look back years from now and remember. Already the days have melded together and if I try to pick out specific moments I have to think really hard and bust out the calendar to remember.
Rather than let that get me down I am choosing to blog again. I pray I find the time. Be it early in the morning or after the kids go to bed, I just need to do it and make it a priority.
Welcome Back Blog Readers! I hope you enjoy your ride.

Owlhaven's Giveway

2009-08-03T11:19:00.003-04:00

Early on in my blogging I was very fortunate to run across one of my favorite bloggers, Owlhaven.
A homeschool mom to 10, this woman rocks. With posts about gardening, frugality, adoption, life and laptops. Laptops, yup, it's true. Mary is giving away a laptop to one lucky reader this week. Go check out the post:
http://www.owlhaven.net/intel_laptop_giveaway

I definitely could put a new laptop to good use.

Summer Fun LIst

2009-06-05T11:00:00.003-04:00

Summer Fun Ideas

Playtime at the Park (Wednesdays)
Potter Park Zoo
Fenner Nature Center
Geocaching
Bike rides
Hawk Island- Swimming
Motorcycle rides with dad
Library- Read cool books!
Camping/Creation Museum
Ice cream
Baseball games
MSU children’s garden
Play dates and sleepovers
Crafts
Lake Michigan
Columbia Creek
MSU Dairy and Horse farms
Strawberry picking-June
Blueberry picking- August
Bowling
Michigan Adventure
Frankenmuth- pretzel factory
Ice skating
Roller skating
Kalamazoo Nature Center
Ledges-rock climbing
Skate Park
Movie
Canoeing
Concerts in the Park
Surprise a working friend with lunch
Plant cutting flowers
Sprinkler
Board Games
Stargazing
Make a movie
Kids talent show
Puppetshow
Ethnic Foods
Festivals
Cascades
Summer Reading Activities at the Library
VBS
Fishing
Farmers Market
Volunteer (Fenner, Nature Discovery, Creation Station)
Take stuff apart-with permission
Garage Sale Challenge
Water fight
Backyard Campout
Projector movie night
Fish ladder/Pruess
EL Aquatic Center ($7/person)
Encourage a homeschooler
Bengal Wildlife-Bath
Audubon Bird Hikes
Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

It is our intentions to do each of the things on this list. We will see what the finances allow. Thankfully the majority is free or inexpensive so we are looking forward to a SUPER FUN SUMMER!!!

Southside's NEW Farmers Market

2009-06-04T10:01:00.002-04:00

NEW!!! South Lansing Community Farmers Market and Paved Trail at Davis Park

Every Saturday, Benjamin Davis Park is the place to be for Fresh Food, Fitness, and Fun!

Lansing, MI – June 3, 2009 – For years, residents across South Lansing have wanted a farmers market where they could purchase fresh, locally grown produce. In addition, residents in Southeast Lansing have wanted a safe place to walk and bike in an area that lacks sidewalks on several major roads. Thanks to the South Lansing Community Development Association, both dreams are about to become reality.

What: South Lansing Community Farmers Market

When: Every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., June through September

What: Grand Opening of Paved Path at Benjamin Davis Park

When: Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m.

Where: Benjamin Davis Park, 5614 Pleasant Grove Rd. (between Jolly and Miller)

Join us as we officially open our new market and the new 3/4 mile paved path. Shop at the market, meet local growers, learn about food preservation, try new recipes, stroll along the newly paved walking path and visit with neighbors. Our market is unlike any other because it offers produce from community growers and urban yard gardeners as well as local farmers.

This Saturday, the market will offer early harvest produce, including asparagus, radishes, rhubarb, salad greens, spinach, Swiss chard, and turnip greens, as well as garden starts and potted perennials. We’ll also have a children’s activity table and information on food preservation presented by MSU Extension.

Throughout the season, we’ll offer a growing variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as value-added products like dips and sauces, jams and jellies, honey, maple syrup, baked goods, and soaps.

The market and the path were made possible with support from the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Ingham County Health Department, the Lansing Parks & Recreation Department, MSU Extension, and members of the South Lansing community.

Eat Fresh, Get Fit, Have Fun!

Car Conversation

2009-05-21T13:40:00.003-04:00

"Mom?"
"Yes dear."
"Did you know I have 3 friends who go to their moms house and then their dads?" As she proceeds to list their names. Then continues..."Kelsey had to go back to her mom's house last night."
I wasn't planning on having a discussion about divorce or kids who have split custody. But apparently these things have been on her 5 year mind.
"Mom, why did her mom call her?
I tried my best to explain that regardless of where the parent is they want to talk to their kid. Like when my husband goes out of state on travel, he calls and talks to them because he misses them. Just like Kelsey's mom must miss her when she is at her dads.
"Oh."

Unfortunately, there are more than 3 kids let alone friends that are children of divorce.
Lord, be with our little friends that are in the midst of divorce and custody arrangements. Help them to see and feel loved by both of their parents. Protect their hearts Lord. Provide for their every need.

More than an Educator, More than a Mom

2009-05-11T06:54:00.005-04:00

There are days when my identity seems so stuck on mom. I mean I hear my name multiply times a day. Most likely over a hundred times a day. Mom, MoM, mom, mama, mOm, mommy, MOM! Yet in our home I am more than mom. I am mom, wife, friend, teacher, taxi driver, base ball coach (our backyard only) and lately it appears student.
No I have not enrolled in College, although I feel that someday I will. I feel like lately I have been in the school of "How to Educate My Children." Have you ever had a series of events that you felt were so tailor made for you. I choose to believe it is not coincidence. I believe that God is specifically teaching me about my kids and how they learn especially my son.
It's long been discovered that boys are different than girls. Never has it been more obvious than in our homeschool. I can confirm the fact that yes boys are different than girls and probably more specifically; they learn differently too. I entered into homeschooling knowing that children had different learning styles, I read countless books. I decided early on to incorprate different styles of learning, a something for everyone learning program. And since I am ecclectic, it means a little of this, a little of that, structured and unstructured, hands-on and book work, auditory and visual, live field trips, video field trip and reading lots of books. I figured with a wide variety, my children would be well-rounded.
For the most part this has served us very well. I love teaching. We do a lot of fun things. My kids are growing and learning, as am I. And they are well-rounded.
Yet while they are well-rounded I feel like now is the time to nuture them as individuals. Helping them to become the man and woman God created THEM to be. Early on I could pick out traits in my children, giving me hints of who they are. One asks lots of questions, one loves to sing, one loves books, while they other could spend the entire day outdoors exploring. I could go and on and on...
So how is God leading me? What has He shown me? While I could never put all the pieces together for you. I will share what I do know. And I will do my best to communicate it with you.
It all started when we were reading a biography on Thomas A Edison. As a young boy Thomas Edison was incredibly curious. He wanted to know how everything worked. He asked A LOT of questions. At the age of 7 his mother put him into the town school. A one room school house with a very strict teacher named, Mr. Crawford. Mr. Crawford had no use for disruptions of any sorts and certainly not for a young Thomas who had questions about the subject matter. He was often ridiculed and disciplined for his desire to know more. One day, Thomas came home from school and declared, "I am not going back to that school!" His mother enquired why and found out that he had been ridiculed and yelled at, yet again for asking a question. The teacher had made the statement, this river runs uphill. Now Thomas had been down to the river, he had studied its flow and all the rivers he had ever seen flowed down hill. So he simply asked, "How can that be?" His teacher responded harshly, his mother however responded BRILLIANTLY! "Thomas Alva Edison, you have every right to be curious and ask questions. He should feel honored that you are so intentive and want to learn. Why, if he won't allow for your questions, I will teach you myself at home." And then she went to tell Mr. Crawford himself what she thought. At age 7, Thomas had his first laboratory. He continued to ask questions, he continued to explore and he became in my mind the most valuable contributor to American science because of it.
Next it was onto the Wright Brothers biography. Right smack dab in the middle of chapter one, God got my attention. The boys were still young, I believe 3 and 5 when Wilber recieved a top for his birthday. Not just any top, a gyroscope. The science of it amazed the family and they all enjoyed taking turns to see how it worked. In the afternoon, Wilber and Orville went into the shed to see how it worked. And to see how it worked they ended up taking it apart and ultimately destroying it. The mother's response to the situation was BRILLIANT! To paraphrase, she told the oldest brother that the boys had taken the top apart and that it was now broken. To which he questioned, "Won't father be mad?" Her reply, "We can not be mad at them. They are doing what they were created to do. Their minds must know the answers to their questions. The must take things apart to see how they work and only then do they understand it. Your grandfather was the same way. He took apart wagon after wagon seeing how they worked. Then he rebuilt them and made them better. That is why he is the best wagon maker there is. If we do not allow them to do these things they will not be all that they were created to be. You are not to scold them, nor well I." WOW!!!
I can not tell the number of times nor all the things my son has gotten into, the times he has taken things apart to what seemed to me destroying something all because his mind had questions that needed to be answered. My boy who asks countless "How and why" questions. My boy that would be much happier out in the back yard than behind a desk. Who has before helped me to fix the DVD player, taking it apart and fixing the malfunction. My boy... is a Thomas Edison and a Wilber Wright.
So what as his educator am I to do about that? Believe me I ask myself often what is best for my kids. A little bit of the answer came when we watched the first 30 minutes of a River Runs Through It. The narrating boy told how he went to the school of Minister (his last name) who was the boys father. Needless to say, he was homeschooled. He told how his father taught two things; Arithmetic and Writing. Those two things he was required to do daily, TO HIS FATHERS SATISFACTION. It shows the boy writing, taking the lesson to his father and him red lining it , circling things and handing it back to the boy. This goes on a couple times until the boy got it right, to which the father replies, "Good, now throw it away." The boy crumples the paper, throws it in the trash and runs off full speed to the woods where he spends the day fly fishing and exploring. The narrator shares, that "All I needed to learn, I learned there in those woods.

And what I took from all this is this:
I should and I will require seatwork from my child. He will be expected to do his math. He will be expected to complete his Language Arts. However long this takes him will be up to him. It should be done well and to my satisfaction. Then he will have time to explore. I have given him the freedom to take things apart, with permission. I found an old camera at a garage sale. He took it apart last week. A little screw driver and an inquiring mind taught him more than I could have ever taught him by forcing him to read it from a book or giving some dry explaination. I will still do unit study appraoches to topics. Offering as many hands-on, practical learning options as we go. I also plan to let him explore as much as possible. Not worrying to much when he digs a hole. Yet also holding him accountable for what he does. Use a tool, put it away. As he grows I hope he will begin a journal of all his discoveries. I can not wait to see what he does with his life because of the choices I am making. I know whatever he does, it is going to be something GREAT!

So what about my daughter. How does she play into this whole mix? How am I to teach her? Differently, that's how. While all these epiphanies are happening on my sons front, I have had a couple on my daughter as well. She THRIVES on seat work. I could give her 20 pages of work book stuff and pages to fill out and she would eat it up. The child finished Kindergarten early because nearly everyday she would ask can I do another day. Last week when I she had consumed all that I had for her to consume as far as Kindergarten goes, we declared that she had finished. My husband told her how proud of her he was and that now she was a first grader. She beemed with delight. The next day she asked, "Where is my first grade school stuff?" Now I was not planning on starting first grade stuff until the Fall. I had planned on doing filler activities and workbooks to fill the time until we were done for the Summer. That was my plan, not hers. She really wanted to start first grade, THAT DAY. Since I had all my Language Arts stuff for her for first grade, thats what we did. She did the first three days in one sitting. Then two days the next. She has already stated she wants to do school all Summer. Seeing that it takes her such a short time to get through it I will probably oblidge her. It is how she is wired and I would be doing her a disservice to not allow her to learn on her time table and according to her interest.
So it does appear to me that I will be Schooling and Unschooling under the same roof. You see I am an educator. I am a Mom. I am a student, ever learning. "Lord, teach me all that I need to know."

Oh and if anyone has something interesting that could be taken apart, broken or not, I think I know a boy that might enjoy the opportunity.

Creation Stations May craft workshops

2009-05-06T09:12:00.000-04:00

May Workshops at Creation Station

Thursday May 7- Mother's Day Crafts 12-4pm - Special things for Mom

Thursday May 14- Hawaiin "Puka" Birds and Rain Sticks 12-4pm -Guest instructor Charlotte LaRoy will teach how to make these delightful birds.

Thursday May 28- Yard and Garden Decorations 12-4

All workshops are free and all ages welcome.

Donations accepted.

200 Museum Dr- Look for the orange door with a yellow star.

Looking for craft supplies? Don't forget to check out the Creation Station store.

A Weekend of Choices

2009-04-16T08:12:00.003-04:00

It appears that this weekend is a great time to get out for some family fun. Here are just four things that are going on.

Woldumar Earth Day Celebration
Saturday, April 18, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The celebration kicks off with trail grooming, tree planting, and other volunteer projects from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join the volunteer crew to help get our buildings and grounds in shape for the upcoming season. Anyone can join the party, just come the fun. Groups who are interested in volunteering together can call 517-322-0300.

Blacksmith demonstration.

Prairie Burn Seminar. Find out how Woldumar maintains the prairie habitat and promotes the diversity of plants and animals in it with a yearly prescribed burn. Susan Jones, a Woldumar Board Member and wetland specialist, will explain the process at 1:00 p.m. Admission fee $2/Woldumar members; $3/nonmembers.

Geocache Treasure Hunt. Go on a treasure hunt using a GPS. Pick up the first clue at the office in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. If you don't have your own GPS unit, Woldumar will loan you one. All participants who finish the hunt and find the treasure will receive a prize. Admissin fee $3/members; $5/nonmembers.

Concessions will be available from 12 noon - 4:30 p.m. in the RE Olds Anderson Barn.

Small Animal Day Saturday, April 18th 9am to 1pm Admission: $2/person

This annual event is hosted by student organizations and clubs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at MSU (NOT by the College of Veterinary Medicine). It is an opportunity to get outside on a spring day and visit the MSU farms and pavilion, and to see newborn animals up close.

Guests are to park at the southwest corner of Mt. Hope Rd and Farm Lane on the MSU campus. Be sure to dress for the weather. Bus transportation will be available to take guests to MSU farms and the MSU Pavilion, where they can see the facilities, meet MSU students, and see the animals, including newborn lambs, calves, foals, etc.

Arrive by 11 if you want to see all of the exhibits. The last bus leaves for the farms at noon.

Small Animals Day information, call: 517-355-9575, or 517-355-0234.

MSU Vet-aVisit Saturday, April 18th 9am-4pm FREE

HOW DO YOU MILK A COW? Give it a try, and learn fun facts about the diary industry, too!
THE STUFFED ANIMAL SURGERY CLINIC lets children and their favorite stuffed furry friends meet with student “doctors” who provide physical exams and treatments.
RUMEN CANULA…Smell, see and touch the inside of a live cow’s stomach!
THE OTS PETTING ZOO allows children and adults to get their hands on a menagerie of farm animals, sponsored by Omega Tau Sigma.
BLOOD DONATION IN PETS? Dogs and cats sometimes need a blood transfusion…Screening, preparing, and storing animal blood is complicated-but very interesting!
ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY…Gown-up like a surgeon and use cutting edge surgical techniques to fish for a treat!
WHAT IS A HEARTBEAT? Learn how blood travels through your body and listen to a real heartbeat!
ZEKE THE WONDER DOG…is making his debut Frisbee performance! Learn how to care for animal athletes and get your picture taken with him!
PROPER PET CARE, including the importance of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, dental work, ear care, and more…to keep your pet healthy!
WALK THROUGH A COW’S DIGESTIVE TRACT…and unravel the truth behind the myth that cows have four stomachs.
THESE AND MANY MORE!

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
Sunday, April 19. Noon to 4pm. Free!
Join us for a day dedicated to recognizing the splendor of our natural environment, while also giving it a helping hand. Here are some planned events.
• Garlic Mustard workshop (12:30pm) and pulling (any time through the day).
• Guided birding and nature walks throughout the day.
• Visit with our live Michigan reptiles and amphibians. We will feed many of them in front of visitors throughout the day, and take some outside for mini-presentations if weather allows.
• Two showings of the 55-min video, On a Wing and a Prayer (1:30 & 3pm). This program is one of a PBS New Explorers series that originally aired in the late 90s. We are losing our tropical migrant songbirds at an unsettling rate. This program explains why, and what we can do about it. Fenner’s directors, Jim and Carol, assert that, whether you have a personal interest in birds or not, everyone should see this program.
• Incubating Bobwhite Quail eggs! An incubator will be set up in the observation room to begin incubation of the eggs. The Bobwhite is a southern quail. In the northern limits of its range, southern Michigan, populations have a difficult time becoming established because of harsh winter conditions. Most Bobwhite populations that exist in Michigan were established through release programs. When these birds are grown, they will be released on Fenner grounds this summer. We are going to try to time the hatching of the chicks near Mother’s Day!

Victory Video

2009-04-15T17:55:00.005-04:00

Last year, the kids and I had the privilege of watching the birth of two calves. One, a heifer, we named Miley and a bull calf (Espn). We have enjoyed watching her grow, periodically checking in on how she is doing at the MSU Dairy Farm. Today my daughter and I decided to go visit Miley. While there we noticed a heifer was in labor. This time I took video and captured the miracle of life for your viewing pleasure.
The following video is approxiamately 9 minutes long and fully discloses the birth (it shows her parts and all that is happening, it contains blood and bodily fluids) The whole thing is amazing!

Here is the timeline-
9:30am- Valla is taken to the birthing stall
10:55am- Her water breaks, she then stands up and takes a break for about 30 minutes
11:30am- Active pushing...the front two hooves appear
11:40am Calf born- We named it Victory
11:41-12:15- Licked clean by Valla
12:15pm Calf taken to the warming house

If only it could be that simple for us humans. Speaking of humans, the gestation of cows is very close to ours at 9 months 10 days. And now you know.

I hope you watch and enjoy the video!

Pond Wade

2009-04-11T16:12:00.004-04:00

The boy and I went on a pond wade. Surrounded by Spring Peepers and searching for invertebrate life.
This video is our journey....Into a Vernal Pond.

God's Glue- Laminin

2009-04-09T07:41:00.009-04:00

A doctor wrote:

A couple of days ago I was running (I use that term very loosely) on my treadmill, watching a DVD sermon by Louie Giglio...and I was BLOWN AWAY! I want to share what I learned....but I fear not being able to convey it as well as I want. I will share anyway.

He (Louie) was talking about how inconceivably BIG our God is...how He spoke the universe into being...how He breathes stars out of His mouth that are huge raging balls of fire...etc. etc. Then He went on to speak of how this star-breathing, universe creating God ALSO knitted our human bodies together with amazing detail and wonder.

At this point I am LOVING it (fascinating from a medical standpoint, you know.) ....and I was remembering how I was constantly amazed during medical school as I learned more and more about God's handiwork. I remember so many times thinking....'How can ANYONE deny that a Creator did all of this???'

Louie went on to talk about how we can trust that the God who created all this, also has the power to hold it all together when things seem to be falling apart...how our loving Creator is also our sustainer. And then I lost my breath. And it wasn't because I was running my treadmill, either!!! It was because he started talking about laminin. I knew about laminin. Here is how Wikipedia describes them:

'Laminins are a family of proteins that are an integral part of the structural scaffolding of basement membranes in almost every animal tissue.' You see....laminins are what hold us together....LITERALLY. They are cell adhesion molecules.. They are what holds one cell of our bodies to the next cell... Without them, we would literally fall apart. And I knew all this already.. But what I didn't know is what laminin LOOKED LIKE. But now I do.

And I have thought about it a thousand times since (already)....

Here is what the structure of laminin looks like...AND THIS IS NOT a 'Christian portrayal' of it....if you look up laminin in any scientific/medical piece of literature, this is what you will see...

Now tell me that our God is not the coolest!!!

Amazing.

The glue that holds us together...ALL of us...is in the shape of the cross..

Immediately, Colossians 1:15-17 comes to mind.

'He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.

For by him all things were created; things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things HOLD TOGETHER. '

Colossians 1:15-17.

Call me crazy. I just think that is very, very, very cool.

Thousands of years before the world knew anything about laminin, Paul penned those words. And now we see that from a very LITERAL standpoint, we are held together....one cell to another....by the cross.

You would never in a quadrillion years convince me that is anything other than the mark of a Creator who knew EXACTLY what laminin 'glue' would look like long before Adam even breathed his first breath!!

"Faith is not knowing what the future holds, but knowing who holds the future."

I wanted you to know and to understand that YOU are being held together by the cross of Jesus Christ! His love! His forgiveness and His marvelous power!

-Author unknown

Amazing! If you want to watch the video he was watching of Louie, it is definitely worth 8 minutes of your time.

http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=152b5103d741aca61093

My Parent- Teacher Conference

2009-04-07T07:39:00.002-04:00

So today I am sitting down with the kids teacher to see how the kids are doing. It should be fun talking to myself.

For the most part they play well with others. I have one, social child, that talks easily with others. One, quiet reserved, that is growing and making attempts to speak. I have one that excels in sports and one that excels in academics.

Never before have I been more keenly aware of the differences of boys and girls. Or how two children, raised in the same home can be so different. It is 100% absolutely true that each person is a unique individual, with likes, dislikes, strengths and weaknesses. My challenge right now is identifying these things in my kids. Encouraging them in those areas of interest. Strengthening their areas of weakness. Nurturing their God-Given gifts and abilities. Teaching them more than academic skills but life skills as well.

I am reading through a book right now Life Skills for Kids: Equipping Children for the Real World by Christine Field. While I feel academic pursuits are important, I do not want to be remiss and miss the everyday skills needed to function as an adult in this world.

So I guess at this parent-teacher conference I will be having later today, I guess we better discuss those things as well. :)

FINAL FOUR

2009-04-04T21:37:00.005-04:00

Being the MSU fans that we are we ventured out to the Breslin Center for the Final Four game.
The kids chose to decorate themselves for the game.
The boy wanted to go green and white...

While little girl went with GO MSU

The crowd to get in. The place was pretty much packed out.

Little girls shadow...I absolutely love the pig tails in this pic.

Free throw fingers...

and SWOOSH!

The energy at the Breslin was electric. The team was on fire...
Congrats MICHIGAN STATE!!! 82-73
Dance baby dance!

Fenner Wild Times Newsletter

2009-04-04T08:24:00.007-04:00

Check it out, there are a lot of great opportunities.

THE FENNER
WILD TIMES
Number 2 APRIL 2009

From the Directors
We hear it every day. Visitors like what they are getting – a high quality experience, whether they stay for a few minutes or a few hours. There are other ways of knowing. Friends of Fenner Nature Center, our invaluable support group, is seeing a marked rise in new memberships. More dollars are showing up in the donation jar. The recent Maple Syrup Festival set a high-water attendance record.
What’s not to like? A staff person greets any one who walks through the doors, determines your specific interest in being there and sets out to help you achieve it. Maybe you are coming to check out the new, huge collection of live native Michigan reptiles and amphibians housed here. With over thirty combined species of snakes, turtles, frogs and salamanders, it is one of the largest in the state.
The aquariums are right out there on tables, much more accessible – and interactive. Are the turtles looking hungry? We’ll give you a handful of food sticks to drop to them. Feed a cricket to a frog or a salamander. Want to touch or hold one of the snakes? We’ll get one out. Have you ever had a “snake-on-astick?” Ask us. We’ll serve one up for you.
There is a downside to providing this kind of attention to everyone who walks through the door. The budget supplied by the city cannot provide for a “continuous presence” in the observation room. Very often, through the week or on the weekends, our limited staff is busy with a scheduled program, a phone call or other functional necessity. We need volunteers.
That’s where you come in. If you’d like to help us in any of the capacities listed above, we would like to recruit you to fill them. Optimally, through all of our open hours, we’d like to maintain this continuous presence, always on-hand to greet and orient visitors. Of course, there will be times, especially during the week, where no one walks through the doors for long periods of time. Bring a book, work on your laptop, or chat with a friend on your cell phone. It can be pretty cushy as far as volunteer work goes. Yet, you’d be providing a valuable service in the center’s overall operation.
Anyone, 16 or older is welcome: college students, homeschool parents (bring the kids!), retirees, or anyone else who can afford a couple of hours or more on any given day, except Monday (closed). Beginning this weekend, we will have a calendar available at the center. Fill out a volunteer form and fill in a day and time, or more, when you would like to cover as the “observation room greeter.” Please call, email, or drop in if you have any questions about it, then come on aboard! Help us make your nature center the best it can be!
-Jim & Carol McGrath

Be a Fenner ATF Agent (Alien Task Force, of course!)
There is a serious botanical, ecological problem currently spreading over much of the eastern U.S. It continues to spread in a cancerous fashion through lower Michigan, including the Lansing area, Fenner Nature Center, and, possibly, your own yard or neighborhood. The invasive, alien plant is a fast-growing biennial called garlic mustard. Although it was introduced from Europe with culinary (and medicinal) intent over a century ago, and while the leaves are high in iron and other nutrients, the American palate never embraced it. Unfortunately, plants that took root here profusely seeded, then spread, explosively so, over the past two decades. Another ecological nightmare has become entrenched.
Some alien plant species that exist in our current landscape - and there are a greenhouse-load of them - are less damaging to the ecology than others. Many of these have been accepted, and fed upon by various forms of insect or other animal life that is currently here, thus keeping their density relatively in check. On the flip-side, there are others like garlic mustard. Nothing eats the stuff! Walk through a patch of woods that has been carpeted with it and see how long it takes to find a single leaf that has had even a notch chewed in it. Add to this the second-year plant’s seed producing prowess – hundreds or even a thousand per plant – and the dilemma comes into stark focus. The plant’s leaves are heart-shaped with serrated edges. The first year plant is a rosette that remains close to the ground. The second-year plant grows from the root as a stalk that often peaks at three feet in height. It produces clusters of small, white, four-petaled flowers.
Garlic mustard grows most freely in soil that has relatively little other plant growth. It is also highly shade tolerant. This makes it a specific menace to our beloved native woodland wildflowers, many of them in states of decline already, like trillium, bloodroot, spring beauty, wild hepatica, wild ginger, wild geranium, jack-in-the-pulpit, and so many more. The stems of second-year plants begin to rise above the ground after the first week of April. They grow rapidly. Most are flowering by May. April and May are the best months to pull them. Since they tend to grow in loose soil, they come up by the root quite easily.
Fenner has many areas that are overrun with garlic mustard. We’d like to rally any and all who love Fenner, native wildflowers, working for an ecological cause, or just enjoying the outdoors with a purpose, to join us in a springtime all-out attack on these plant-diversity destroying alien invaders. We need manpower, womanpower, and even kidpower. Individuals, families, school classrooms, high school and college students, youth and adult clubs and
organizations, community service candidates and anyone we’ve missed can volunteer to pull plants on almost any schedule you arrange with us. Please consider attending one of our short information and orientation workshops and sign up as a Fenner ATF agent. Keep reading for more details.

LIVE AT FENNER: Six Swallows & a Swift
Sunday, April 5, 1:00pm.
$4/person. $2 for members, at the door.
All six of Michigan's swallows (and one swift!) return from the tropics throughout April. In this one-hour Powerpoint presentation by Fenner director Jim McGrath, learn how to tell these agile insect-devouring aerialists apart either in
flight or perched on a wire. Jim will also discuss each species' fascinating behavior and ecology as well as what you can do to make your yard or neighborhood more inviting to them. After the presentation, Jim will lead interested participants on an hour-long birding walk. Bring binoculars if you have them.

GARLIC MUSTARD WORKSHOPS & ORIENTATION
Attend any of these free 20-30 minute events in the visitor center to learn more about garlic mustard and how and where you or your group of “ATF agents” can pull it on the nature center grounds. Pull it by yourself, with your family, or with a small organized group (scouts, after-school kids activity, high school and college students, etc.). Your club or family can adopt an acre (or more, or less), or you can just come out to pull it on a trailside of your or our choice. If you can’t make one of the above meetings, stop in anyway. One of our staff will gladly deliver a quick, impromptu orientation and send you on your mission. Organized groups can contact us for a special orientation appointment.
We do request that anyone interested in pulling stop into the center to check in. It is Fenner’s policy to discourage walkers from leaving the trail in order to minimize disturbance, but, of course, as an ATF volunteer, you are granted special access in order to accomplish your task. We ask that you wear a tag while pulling off the trail to identify yourself and your intentions while you are working.
Workshops
Wednesday, April 15, 4:00pm.
Saturday, April 18, 9am. Our regular monthly “work day.”
Sunday, April 19, 12:30pm. Part of Fenner’s Earth Day event. See page 4.

TODDLER PATROL (ages 2-3 yrs with adult)
Mondays, April 13-May 11.
Enroll for either 9:00-10:00am or 10:30-11:30am.
Fee: $30 Lansing resident; $35 non-resident.
This spring, introduce your toddler to the wonders of nature. This hands-on program, led by naturalist aide, Francine Clark, is designed to enhance the natural curiosity of two and three-year-olds. Each week features activities with live animals, outdoor exploration and a story.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION
Sunday, April 19. Noon to 4pm. Free!
Join us for a day dedicated to recognizing the splendor of our natural environment, while also giving it a helping hand. Here are some planned events.
• Garlic Mustard workshop (12:30pm) and pulling (any time through the day). See Page 2.
• Guided birding and nature walks throughout the day.
• Visit with our live Michigan reptiles and amphibians. We will feed many of them in front of visitors throughout the day, and take some outside for mini-presentations if weather allows.
• Two showings of the 55-min video, On a Wing and a Prayer (1:30 & 3pm). This program is one of a PBS New Explorers series that originally aired in the late 90s. We are losing our tropical migrant songbirds at an unsettling rate. This program explains why, and what we can do about it. Fenner’s directors, Jim and Carol, assert that, whether you have a personal interest in birds or not, everyone should see this program.
• Incubating Bobwhite Quail eggs! An incubator will be set up in the observation room to begin incubation of the eggs. The Bobwhite is a southern quail. In the northern limits of its range, southern Michigan, populations have a difficult time becoming established because of harsh winter conditions. Most Bobwhite populations that exist in Michigan were established through release programs. When these birds are grown, they will be released on Fenner grounds this summer. We are going to try to time the hatching of the chicks near Mother’s Day!

LIVE AT FENNER: Bird Nesting 101
Sunday, April 26, 1:00-2:00pm.
$4/person. $2 for members, at the door.
As we move into the heart of bird nesting season, what better time to learn more about it. Fenner director Jim McGrath will use Powerpoint images and audio recordings as he covers the nesting lives of birds, both inside and outside of your backyard.
Where do most birds nest? In a bush or a tree? The answer may surprise you. The more we learn about and understand the requirements each species needs to successfully reproduce, the better its chances of success. Find out what environmental factors are most damaging to bird nesting success and what you can do to help minimize their impact.
An hour-long birding walk with a nesting-season slant, follows the presentation.

FENNER NATURE CENTER 2020 E. Mount Hope Road Lansing, MI 48910
(517) 483-4224 fncdirectors@gmail.com

Giving blood

2009-04-02T10:49:00.004-04:00

Been thinking...
I was underweight, pregnant or nursing for most of my adult life which made me ineligible for giving blood. I am no longer underweight (ha!) pregnant (thank God) or nursing(kind of against nursing elementary aged children.) So I guess it is time I get off my butt and do it.

Updated: I just made my appointment. Anyone know how long to expect? Or if they allow children to watch?

Jungle Gym...No More

2009-03-31T22:58:00.003-04:00

It appears that I have a sign on me somewhere that read, "Please climb on me." If I could find it I would take it off.
Feeling a bit beat up by the kids lately. When ever I sit down they swarm me. They perch on my shoulders and do flying leaps into my lap. It is no wonder I have bruises in the oddest places. My kids do odd things to my body.
Tonight, after an excruciating blow... I demanded it stop. But now I am left wondering, 'How do I follow through?'
Isolation from mom. While not completely practical may be the consequence.
If you were in this situation, what would you do?

Sea Monkeys

2009-03-30T09:27:00.003-04:00

As a child these creatures were mysterious.
They were magical.
They were a biologists spark of brilliant marketing.

After attending the Live at Fenner yesterday the mystery of the Sea Monkey has been revealed to me. Before I let you in on the secret, let me give you a little back ground.
Vernal ponds are ponds that flood in the Spring and early Summer only to dry up later in the year. These ponds are prime real estate for frogs, salamanders and many invertebrate creatures. Come to find out some creatures need a dry spell as part of their life cycle. Such is the case of the Sea Monkey.
Part of the genius of the Sea Monkey is that it needs to be dried out for a season in order to thrive the following year. So being in a little packet on a store shelf is not a problem at all. In fact it is necessary. In nature the Sea Monkey or shall we call it by its really name? The Fairy Shrimp! In nature the fairy shrimp begins swimming about with the Spring thaw. In your home when you dump you little "sea monkey eggs" into the water it triggers the next stage of its life cycle. Included in the Sea Monkey packet is algae which is needed for the fairy shrimp to grow.

And know you know the rest of the story.

Mother/Son Laser Tag

2009-03-29T09:04:00.005-04:00

Our homeschool Co-op arranged the best mother/son date yesterday. Laser Tag!
The boy and I had so much fun. There were nearly 50 families that participated.

Since there were so many families they were divided into three groups and rotated through three stations.
Laser Tag
Games
Refreshments

We happened to be in group 2 and we happened to be with most of our friends.
To start off we were in Games, mother/son bingo. There were boy items(dinosaurs, squirt gun) and there were mom items(nail polish, lipstick). If you got a bingo, you got a token for the game room. Added bonus: the markers were m&ms.

Then we were off to round one of laser tag. Challenge: Boys protect your mom. The team with the least hits on mom won. We found a good spot and camped out. My back to the wall and defending through the slits in the wall. The boy protecting the opening getting anyone that came by. I was hit 14 times before my gun died about 2 minutes before the end of the game. We ended up with second place for this challenge.

Then it was refreshments and game room. Really this was breakfast for me as I forgot to eat before heading out the door.

With first rotation complete it was back to games. The boys were challenged in how well do you know your mother? They were asked 13 questions about their moms that they had to answer. Like when is her birthday, her favorite drink, how many brothers and sisters does she have? My boy got 9 right. Not too shabby.

Laser Tag part two: Moms vs the boys. We had 17 moms and 23 boys. The boys were hysterical planning their attack. Intimidation. The boys quickly developed a conquer and hold stradegy where we camped out near both bases and defended it with the best of communication. Much to the boys dissapointment...THE MOMS WON!

In the game room at the close of the event my boy cashed in some allowance money and played a few games.

Tickets are good.

We challenged each other to a basketball shoot-out. I won!

Bumper Cars.

Mom and son...

Good times!

Flick's Film Fest at Celebration Cinema

2009-03-28T19:02:00.003-04:00

Free movies for children 12 & under. Just $2.50 for adults.

Here is the list of movies for this event:

Madagascar 2 PG
March 27 - April 2

The Tale of Desperaux G
April 3 - April 9

Mall Cop PG
April 10 - April 16

Ink Heart PG
April 17 - April 23

Hotel For Dogs PG
April 24 - April 30

Celebration Cinemas
Check online for show times.
Enjoy!

Delightful Day

2009-03-28T08:11:00.005-04:00

With the weather in the 50's we decided to make the most of the it yesterday.

First stop, Fenner. We fed the birds, helped arrange some tanks and chatted with visitors. Down on the pond the turtles were sunning themselves and we found one green frog, our first of the year.

Then it was off to the Dairy Farm to see Miley. My how she has grown, she is 11 months old today.
Now at the heifer barn, she came right up to us when we arrived at the gate and called her name. I truly think she recognizes our voice. It is only a matter of seconds until she is licking us, which she did again repeatedly yesterday.

After the Dairy Farm, we headed over to the MSU butterfly garden. We put three quarters in the meter, which granted us 30 minutes. The kids love exploring the Butterfly garden. Here is what we found on this trip.
A pineapple

A tree frog

And a friendly butterfly that loved my nieces shirt.

An absolutely delightful day!

Field Trips

2009-03-26T11:55:00.004-04:00

Field trips; I love them!!!
There is something about getting out of the classroom and exploring real life experiences. I find it to be irresistible.
Over the last few days I have been setting up some field trips for this Spring. So exciting I tell ya.
Here is what we have planned:
MSU Butterfly Garden- The butterflies have arrived.
MSU- Dairy and Horse farm- Spring babies
Alpaca Sheering
Greenfield Village- Pioneer life
Turtlebee Farm- Bee Keeping class
Point Mouillee- Bird watching; shore birds Spring migration
Meijer Garden Butterfly- Beautiful horticulture and thousands of butterflies.
John Ball Zoo in GR
Possible Toledo Zoo
and of course many, many trips to Fenner. :)

I was taking to someone this morning about field trips and was reminded of this awesome guide I came across a couple of years ago. The Field Trip Guide put together by the Ingham County Office for Young Children. It has many places to visit right here in Ingham County. Even if you don't live in teh area you may find that it sparks some ideas for visiting places in your neck of the woods. Enjoy!

Budding Artists

2009-03-25T15:55:00.003-04:00

This last week we have had the privilege of watching some incredible artists. First a gentleman using acrylics at the Home Show. He painted the most beautiful landscapes. We literally watched him for over an hour as he worked on several different pieces. His work was going for $100-$500 and he was selling them as fast as he could paint them.

Next there was a lady at the Fenner Maple Syrup Fest doing lovely watercolor paintings. My boy was fascinated and spent quite a bit of time watching her as she painted. Noticing his interest she offered to let him paint a picture. She talked him through different techniques and showed him how to mix the water and paint. The end result was fantastic.

Keep in mind my seven year old painted this. Here it is...

Needless to say, we have a new found love for painting. We purchased our first true water color paint set. Who knew they came in tubes? This afternoon we set up a littel studio at our kitchen table and the boy taught me what he had learned.

Here is my piece modeled after my sons with a few personal touches.

I learned more in thoese few minutes of instrustion from my son than I ever did in school. It should be fun to see how we progress.

Fenner Happenings in March

2009-03-05T11:38:00.002-05:00

Hello All!

The kids and I have been serving as volunteers at Fenner Nature Center over the last couple of weeks. I wanted to write this note to let you know of some exciting things going on over at the center. The new directors are here, Jim and Carol McGrath of Nature Discovery, have come on board with Fenner. They bring years of nature and wild life experience. Their enthusiasm and knowledge are a welcome sight bringing new animals, new programs and a little updating to boot.

I hope each of you will take advantage of the following opportunities as they are gems. I don't know about you but I want Fenner to be around for many generations. It's time we utilize this valuable resource to ensure that it's doors remain open for many many years to come.

If you are looking for a safe place to volunteer as a family, this may be the place you are looking for. To get your foot in the door, they are having a work day on Saturday March 14th 9am-12pm. Dress ready to work outdoors. I hope to see you there!

P.S. The following events were taken from the Fenner newsletter. Want to be added to the once monthly email, stop by Fenner and add your name to the bright pink paper. That way you won't miss a thing.

LIVE AT FENNER: All About Bluebirds
Sunday, March 15, 1:00pm.
$4/person. $2 for members, at the door.
Forty years ago, the Eastern Bluebird was considered
rare. Today, however, this beautiful thrush is a common
sight in rural landscapes as well as in city parks –
including Fenner! In this informative Powerpoint
presentation, find out what caused their precipitous
decline and how an educated public helped restore
populations to healthy numbers once more. Fenner
naturalist Jim McGrath will also discuss bluebird ecology,
including foraging and nesting behavior, and talk about
what you can do to make your yard or neighborhood more
habitable to them.
After the presentation, Chris Hull, a long-time Fenner
volunteer-naturalist who has erected and maintained
bluebird nesting boxes on the property, will take
participants on a guided bluebird walk.

LIVE AT FENNER: Vernal Ponds Awaken
Sunday, March 29, 1:00pm.
$4/person. $2 for members, at the door.
Vernal or ephemeral ponds are the most biologically
rich habitats in Michigan, yet over three quarters of
them have been destroyed. As soon as the ice melts, a
host of life explodes in the vernal waters, including
breeding frogs, salamanders and a dizzying array of
invertebrate life. Fenner director and naturalist Carol
McGrath will show Powerpoint photos in
combination with live specimens to help participants
become more intimate with the awakening, happening
now, of this amazing but delicate ecosystem.
At the presentation’s conclusion, a table of post-thaw
vernal pond life, including several species of frogs,
salamanders and aquatic invertebrates will be available for viewing and up-close inspection.

FUN FRIDAYS: March into Spring!
March 6, 13, 20, 27 from 10:30-11:30am
$6/parent & 1 child ($2/each additional child), $4/parent & 1 child for Fenner members
It’s an early learning experience for children up to 6 years old with a parent. Get a group of friends
with young ones together and come over to Fenner for a nature lesson with a hands-on activity in our
updated cozy little ones learning center. We now have more live animals, lots of soft learning toys,
books and magazines. On nice days we’ll include a short interpretive walk to learn about interesting
things that are happening in nature right now, as winter brightens toward spring. Coffee and tea will
be available for adults. Call or email us to sign up. Drop-ins welcome, too.

MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL: Saturday & Sunday, March 20 & 21, 11am to 4pm
After an especially long and snowy winter, the occurrence of this year’s vernal equinox is something
to celebrate. This year’s annual event features more stuff to do than ever! Here are some…
* Regularly scheduled guided “maple-sugaring” walks.
* Regularly scheduled guided “birding by ear” walks (bring binoculars!).
* Live Birds of Prey program, featuring different raptors each day (small entry fee).
* Live, interactive Michigan Reptiles & Amphibians exhibit, featuring over 30 species!
*Nesting box exhibit.
* Wildlife artists and crafters tables.
* Face-painting and kids’ crafts.
* Pancake finger-foods that include (you guessed it) maple syrup.
* More food and drink…
The festival is FREE. Bring your family and friends, and don’t forget the camera!

Walk and Bike Lansing

2009-03-02T06:28:00.001-05:00

Walk and Bike Lansing! Planning Meetings

See http://www.cityoflansingmi.com/view_news.jsp?id=1813

Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2009 Time: 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Location: Lansing Police Department, North Precinct Gym: 740 May Street Lansing, MI
Date: Wednesday, March 4 Time: 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. Location: Gier Community Center Gym: 2400 Hall Street Lansing, MI
Date: Thursday, March 5 Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Location: Hill Center Maples Room: 5815 Wise Road Lansing, MI
Date: Saturday, March 7 Time: 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. Location: Grace United Methodist Church: 1900 Boston Lansing, MI

Light dinner provided, as well as onsite childcare/activities for kids. All of the March community design sessions will include the same process, at different locations. They will feature a short introductory presentation and a series of small group sessions that include reviewing maps of current conditions, and discussing, mapping, and listing suggestions for improvements for making Lansing more walk and bike friendly. For more information visit: www.walkbikelansing.com OR Join the Facebook Group: Walk and Bike Lansing!

Contact Information:
Jessica Yorko <jessica@walkbikelansing.com>

World Math Day

2009-02-28T09:47:00.003-05:00

Just signed up the boy for the challenge.

More Adventures in Volunteering

2009-02-19T18:26:00.008-05:00

On Tuesday when we went to Fenner I knew I should have had my camera with me so when we went today I made sure to bring it along. Today was suppose to be an hike with friends but those plans changed when the wind chills went to single digits. We decided we would still go to Fenner and either volunteer or sketch wild life. We ended up volunteering. I am so thankful I had my camera. Here is what we saw:

The kids and I all got to hold black rat snakes; a mother and it's baby.
Here the boy has the baby.

Here I have the mother while little girl is checking it out.

After that we headed outside to fill the bird feeders...

and put out seed for the turkeys.

While we were still putting out seed, the turkeys came in to eat.

There were 12 of them.

What really surprised me was this little lady. She came within 20 feet of us with 2 others hanging back in the brush.

She kept her eyes on us but moved in closer.

After that we came in, helped with a display. And the kids got the baby rat snake out some more. They were really hoping someone would come in so they could show it to them, Do you see that smile?

Here is a close-up of the baby black rat snake.

Hope you enjoyed pictures of our adventures.

Volunteering

2009-02-18T13:22:00.003-05:00

Volunteering is something that has been on my mind for quite awhile.
For one I think it is good to get beyond ourselves and help out in the world. Secondly, kids that serve tend to be more caring and kind. They have a sense of contribution and sometimes ownership. Third, God calls us to care for the elderly, the sick, the poor and this world.
So I have been mulling over different scenarios that may work for our family.
Visit elderly in a nursing home.
Serve meals at a soup kitchen.
Help out a single mom or elderly doing yard work.
Neighborhood clean-up.
Helping lead arts and crafts at the Creation Station.
Volunteer our time and bodies to Fenner Nature Center.
While all are noble causes, the one that has won out in the end is the latter.

I don't think it is a big secret that I LOVE NATURE! If God created it, I appreciate it. After studying birds the last couple of months, the kids and I have grown in our appreciation of our local wildlife including but not limited to the birds. We have enjoyed hikes through the woods. Exploring different habitats. And learning all that we can about this world we live in. After a few trips to Fenner this Winter we began to wonder if we could somehow get involved there. We talked to the new directors (who by the way are awesome) and shared our desires to get plugged in. It does not matter to us what we do, just that we are able to do something. Be it help set up displays, pull invasive species, feed the animals, relate with the public, pick up trash, groom trails, lead hikes, create signs...the possiblilties are endless. Thankfully they have been very receptive.

Our plan is to come a minimum of once a week and donate 2 hours of our time to do whatever they ask us to do. Yesterday was our first day. We had so much fun.
The naturalist there has taken us under her wing to show us all that we need to know. Yesterday we helped put out all the seed in the various bird feeders, saw the behind the scenes and feeding plans of all the critters on display, cleaned out a fish tank and the boy held a milk snake. Pretty exciting stuff!

My prayer is that we can be a blessing to Fenner. Serving them selflishly. Learning more about our enviroment. Getting others excited about nature. And have a great time doing it.

I can't wait to see what next week will bring.

Presidents Day the Home School Way

2009-02-16T14:23:00.004-05:00

It's President's Day!

To mix things up we decided to read the biography of George Washington.

Shortly into the book I realized there were many hands-on things we could do to make it come more alive.
So after reading that as a lad he would do copy work to perfect his handwriting, we did some too.

Then I busted out the quill pen and ink that I had been saving for just the right time.

Little girl made one with a little feather we had around the house.

My letter to Mr. President, written with the quill and ink.

Did you know George Washington loved to dance? Here they are pretending to do a waltz.

As a young man, George was a surveyor. He went out into the wilderness and surveyed the land.

So we headed outdoors to survey our own land.

We used a 100ft measuring tape. We have some wilderness here too.
Some areas were easier to measure than others.

Here little girl is helping with a measurement.

Then we came back in to warm up. I showed the kids how to take the information and graph it.

Little by little we made our way through the book.
We learned about:
the French and Indian War
the Boston Tea Party
how the colonist fought for independence
The Declaration of Independence
Valley Forge
Becoming the United States of America
How George Washington became our first president

Now that the book is complete we are going to talk a bit more about our current President. Saying a prayer for him, that he will lead well and with integrity.

A Biblical Butt Chewing

2009-02-16T13:43:00.000-05:00

I don't know if that is what you would call it but that is just what it was.
It appeared that this Sundays message was written just for me. I am sure others got stuff out of it too. But it sure seemed that every single word he spoke was God saying.."take note of that, uh huh that too." "Did you hear that?" Everything was practical and applicable to my life, right now. So what was this message about? What passage of the Bible was being discussed?
Matthew 6:19-21
¹⁹"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

The visiting pastor took a few minutes to talk about what the passage was not about and then he went on to talk about what it did mean. Those words moth and rust destroy give indication not to that which has a place and is used. But to that which is UNUSED. Those things in our life and homes that go untouched, gathering dust. And I don't know about you but that is my home. Piles of clutter. Things unused and neglected. Things that get in my way of enjoying my life and home. I have always struggled with keeping a clean house. It is not one of my strengths. It seems that our home goes in waves of cleanliness to disaster. Sunday morning it was in a state of disaster. Things out of place, some lost and much unuse. Clothes we have outgrown. Papers we have no need to hold onto. Toys forgotten. And where in the world is our geoboards?

The pastor on Sunday also spoke about treasure of the heart. What do we give our time and energy to? What drives us? Is it our blackberries that we can't keep our hands off of, my facebook, ________? Have we given God our hearts?

He had so many good points and practical application I walked out of there inspired to make some changes. After lunch we got to work. Cleaning, decluttering, throwing away, giving away and organizing. It feels good to see my bedroom floor again. And that medicine cabinet; who knew there was expired meds from 2001?
Little by little I am making my way through our stuff, letting go of that which needs to go.
I can't wait for hubby to come home and see the difference one biblical butt chewing can make.

To listen to this message you can go to my churchs website
http://www.trinitywiredmedia.com/2009.html
You will want to click on:

February 15th, 2009

The Greatest Words Ever Spoken - Live Simply So Others Can Simply Live

Marvin Williams

A Month in a Moment

2009-02-08T07:41:00.005-05:00

Oh. My. Goodness!
I never thought I would see the day that I did not blog for a MONTH. Yet that is precisely what has happened.
So lets see, what have we been up to for a month?

Jan 5- We went back to the books after a nice winter break. I have been absolutely AMAZED at how the kids are thriving in their school work. Little girl went from sounding out simple three letter words to reading 30-60 page books seemingly overnight. Her love of words has paid off as she is able to decode words that have not been introduced and has memorized nearly 100 sight words that don't follow the normal phonics pattern. Amazing I tell ya.
Since the kids are plugging away without too much struggle we will actually finish school EARLY this year. It is rather exciting. Last year I was debating not finishing our curriculum and this year I don't even have to worry about it.

Jan 8- After a few days of getting back into the gym to workout I had a heart episode. I was getting off the treadmill when my heart started acting crazy, I felt light headed and like I was going to pass out or throw up. I got to my husbands treadmill; leaning against it for about 10-15 minutes until I felt better. It was all very odd. I did not think too much of it , mostly that I had overdid the workout. That was until a family member also had heart issues and urged me to get mine checked out. After an EKG, stress test and echo, I am assured that all is well with my heart. I can workout but must watch my heart rate not letting it get over 160.

Jan-16 The kids and I went to Twistars gymnastics for an open gym. It was a blast. I was flipping on the trampoline. The kids loved jumping into the pit of foam. The boy was able to finally take his grandpas challenge of climbing a rope all the way to the top. I would venture to guess it was about 30ft up and HE DID IT! He also learned a few moves of the bars and rings.

Jan 18- My husband, son and I took place in the Greater Lansing Church of Christ food drop. Beginning this fall church leaders from 30 of our area met together with Mayor Virg Benero regarding Lansing's needs. With economy of the decline and area food banks shelves dwindling the leaders decided it was time to take action. On Christmas Eve the churches took up an offering that was 100% for the food banks, raising $111,000, far exceeding the original goal of $40,000. On the 18th all the churches met together, celebrated with a rally, praise and prayer. Then went out into the community delivering 2,000 food boxes. Feeding the hungry. The boy and I were part of unloading the big moving trucks full of boxes of food. Hubby helped direct traffic to keep the cars coming for boxes moving smoothly. After our truck was unloaded, Two friends, the boy and I went out into the community and delivered 4 boxes ourselves. An incredible moment. Churches of every race and denomination coming TOGETHER. Beautiful.

Jan 20- We took the day off of school and camped ourselves out in front of the TV to watch Inauguration 2009. What a historic day! I was moved by President Obamas speech and look forward with great expectation to the positive change that can happen. And while we still have farther to go as a nation, seeing our first African American president did my heart good. "The God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."

Jan 23- Netflix met Xbox Liv. Since we dropped our cable a few months back it has been wonderful having so many movies and TV shows for instant viewing. :)

Jan 30- Enrichment Day is back. For the next 10 weeks we will be meeting with 15 other homeschooling families in a co-op focusing on Character, Art and Literature and Gym. I am once again teh gym teacher and am super excited about so new games I have learned. Paramedic. Treasure. Four Corners. Soup. It is going to be so much fun these next 8 weeks that remain.

Feb 3- I hid the video game remotes in our house as I (and the kids) were spending entire too much time playing games. And not enough time cleaning the house and focusing on my responsibilities. I am slowly getting back into a place of obedience and discipline. If that means hidding the remotes, so be it.

Feb 5- For the last couple of weeks we have been studying birds. Beaks, flight, feathers, migration, different species, etc. On the 5th I got together the book called Beaks and various kitchen tools that represent beaks in nature. Pecking,(fingers) stabbing, (skewers) hooked, (can opener) crushing, (nut cracker)and others. We met up with another family and had an impromptu discussion on beaks at Fenner Nature center. Where we read the book, did hands-on with the different tools and observed birds at the bird feeder. Cool stuff. Then as we were discussing crossbills(knife sharpener) the director came out all excited as we currently have crossbills in our area when we never have before. Apparently Canada is having a shortage of pine cones this year so the birds have come down to munch on ours. With that knowledge we went out on a hike in search of the white winged crossbill. Then went driving through Mt Hope Cemetery where they have been spotted. We did not see any but it sparked something in each of us. a new love and respect for birds.
In the evening we went to our first ever Audubon Society meeting and ended up joining. While the topic was some what depressing; Botulism in Great Lake Birds. It was rather fascinating.
As I have mentioned in the past my love for nature. I have a passion for seeing others out and enjoying it. I sense that we will be getting more heavily involved as well as encouraging others to join us.

Feb 7- I have started a new resolve to lose weight. As I have been exploring my heath and issues I am having it appears that my thyroid is out of whack due to gaining weight. So if it means losing 15-20 pounds to be healthy. This is what I am doing. Eating right, exercise and refocusing my relationship with Christ. It should be an interesting journey.

Today- Today is a new day. The blog is up to date and perhaps I will be more diligent in the coming days.

God bless!

Boredom Buster

2009-01-02T13:09:00.005-05:00

With Winter Break drawing to an end I expected the day to be a bit boring. That was until a spark of creative genius, with each member of the family contributing to the end idea...then we hit Mama Jackpot.
What do you get when you combine Monopoly money, books, beads, pretend food, doll house furniture and some Webkinz?
You get Webkinz LIVE!
The kids went to the adoption agency and adopted a Webkinz, where they received a room (a book) and some Webkinz cash (monopoly money) They can buy additional rooms with the the green backed books being outside rooms.

Every half hour they can go to Artes Shop and go on a gem hunt (beads wrapped up in brown paper with some blank ones to add to the element.) There are 5 colored gems so if by the end of the day they can turn in for a Webkinz crown of wonder. Also every half hour they can get a Daily Kinzcare by hitting a pot to get a food item(pretend food)
Then there is the store which they can buy furniture, food and games.
Games can be played by inviting another Webkinz over and playing with them. Games winned means extra Kinzcash.

Oh and we can't forget my favorite....JOBS! Such as cleaning up rooms, making beds and whatever else mama conjures up. Complete the job in a reasonable amount of time and earn....you guessed more Kinzcash.
The kids are loving it and so am I!

The Swim Test

2008-12-27T16:15:00.003-05:00

When we woke up this morning we did not expect it to be a monumental day. Yet that is what it has turned out to be.
Being the youngest can be tough at times; watching your older sibling do things that you yourself can not yet do. Some take this opportunity to indulge in self pity while others such as my daughter, it drives them towards excellence. A determination to achieve.
Ever since little girl realized she was tall enough to go down the water slide at the YMCA there has been a determination to learn how to swim so she could go down it. Whenever we would go to the Y she would practice and practice swimming, each time with her little booty sinking until she was merely treading water. Apparently being of healthy weight and build CAN have its disadvantages as the child has no fat to keep her buoyant.
Today started out much like the others, jumping into the big pool with the intent of practicing some more, merely biding time until she could take her swim class next month. Yet shortly into it I realized that something was different. She was kicking harder, looking stronger. I think she could feel it too. We started out short distances, pushing off the wall and swimming to me. Then gradually made those distances further and further until we realized she WAS doing it. Then we worked a bit on back stroke and the transition from front to back. A requirement for the YMCA youth swim test. Within minutes we knew she was ready. The moment had come. Very excitedly she went to the lifeguard and asked to take the swim test. With me still in the water she pushed off one end and swam and kicked. At the halfway point she rolled over with ease and made her last half doing kicking away on her back. SHE DID IT! She passed the swim test. She gave me the hugest hug and the biggest smile, then proudly walked to the life guard stand to get her name added to the book. The the bracelet around her wrist she made her way to the highly anticipated water slide where she went down three times in a row. Daddy was watching the last two times.
Can we say SUPER EXCITED?
I know one little girl who can.

Not Me Monday!

2008-12-15T13:47:00.012-05:00

I, Sarah, did not take her kids to Wonderland of Lights at the zoo. It would have been much too windy and cold to do something like that.

And while there I certainly did not enjoy carrying my daughter around on my shoulders. I would not even think about putting her five year old up there. No way.

I definitely did not misread an email and go to Chuck E Cheese one week earlier than planned. I would never do that because I am an excellent reader.

And I certainly did not decorate gingerbread houses in my kitchen as that would be an incredible mess.

I did not let my kids stay up until 11pm watching Super Mario 3 because everyone knows that those precious hours after 9pm are for adults only.

I did not force my husband to go to a family Christmas party. That would be just plain cruel.

I did not take the kids sledding on a Friday afternoon when other children were still in school. Not me.

No matter what they say, I did not not skip church to go shopping.

I did not laugh hysterically at my children as they danced around the living room.

I did NOT ignore the laundry for nearly a week. Everyone knows I am much to diligent of a housewife to even accuse.

And I would not listen to Mindy and post a Not Me Monday Memo...nope...never...not me! Or would I?

Mission Accomplished

2008-12-11T09:49:00.003-05:00

My dad grew up in the 1950's. I love hearing stories of his childhood and thankfully Dad still enjoys telling them. Story has it when he was a boy he had to eat a hot breakfast every morning. Be it oatmeal, malt o meal or cream of wheat; it did not matter as long as he ate something hot to "stick to his gut."
My first thought of that was, 'that so would not fly today.' If I told my kids hey you must eat a hot breakfast everyday and no waffles or toast would not cut it. I envisioned fits and complaints. Which then turned my thinking to how spoiled American kids are (mine included!) I thought of other cultures and nations who gladly eat their grains plain, thankful to have a meal. I thought of the poor and impoverished, the homeless, those who would be happy for a hot meal. And I thought that I needed to change my kids thinking about breakfast.
So a few weeks ago I decided that we were going to eat oatmeal(unprocessed) at least once a week (preferably more) for breakfast. That first morning I dished up a half serving of oatmeal (1/4cup) and laid out some toppings on the table. They gladly garnished the oatmeal with dried fruits and honey. Then they took the first bite. Total looks of disgust. They were completely unimpressed. They ate a few bites, begrudgingly. I am sure they whined, most likely complained. Needless to say that first day they did not finish their bowls.
I was undeterred. If anything more persistent in the fact that things needed to change.
So a few days later it was oatmeal again. This time I put about 2 tablespoons into their bowls. With the challenge that if they ate that they could chose something else to eat if they were still hungry. With thoughts of chocolate covered waffles they got through the oatmeal. Probably more honey than oatmeal but they ate it.
Week two: I upped the amount a tiny bit.
Week three: They discovered brown sugar.
Week four: They happily eat the oatmeal with no complaint and don't need the waffle afterward.

I would say: "Mission Accomplished!"

Hey Dad, bring on some more stories. I have some children to raise.

Southside Lansing News

2008-12-09T08:41:00.001-05:00

Hey All!

Some Southside Lansing news for you...

Please take a moment to fill out the survey.

South Lansing Community Development Association is excited to announce our 2009 Community Farmers Market, beginning in June, 2009, at Benjamin Davis Park. This weekly market will offer produce and value-added food products from local farmers, community growers, and home gardeners, as well as other amenities chosen by YOU! We are asking for your input to help us create a quality market experience for shoppers. Please click on the following link to complete our online survey. Estimated completion time is < style="color: rgb(31, 73, 125);">http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=scDEgbFcaik49_2bL9CEyBwg_3d_3d

This is also a reminder that SLCDA’s next community engagement and planning forum will be held on Tuesday, December 9, at 7 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall at Grace United Methodist Church (corner of Mt. Hope and Boston). The focus is on urban food systems and new agriculture initiatives (access to fresh foods, market development, community gardening, food preservation strategies, etc). Anyone interested in helping design the market, selling food or other value-added products at the market, starting a community or home-based garden, or any aspect of urban agriculture is welcome to attend. Please RSVP to slcda@comcast.net, or call (517) 374-5700 so we can plan for refreshments, including fresh fruits and vegetables and homemade desserts by Evan Dunbar and Sarah Faverman. Children are welcome to attend with parents/grandparents/guardians. Just let us know when you RSVP.

The Tale of Three Sioux Indians

2008-11-25T09:21:00.007-05:00

This is the story of Brother Black Bear, Little Blue Flower and their mother Princess Bare Feet.

One Monday morning the three Sioux Indians joined together with other tribes for a day of fun and learning.

First the children colored pictures of Native American in tradition clothing as...

One of the mothers did an overview of the similarities and differences of different regions.

Then each tribe shared what they had been learning.
Brother Black Bear shares about the Sioux tribe including the loin clothes they would wear while hunting.

The boys decoration on his robe. Also note his awesome head dress.

The cradle board Little Blue Flower made to carry her baby, Blue Eyes. The Sioux mothers would carry their babies everywhere in their cradle boards. If the mother needed to do something she would hang the baby on a tree.

Little Blue Flowers dress. I wish I would have gotten a better close up of all the bead work as it is ADORABLE.

One tribe did a reenactment of Chief Pontiac and the affects of small poxs. Did you know the English infected blankets with the diesease and distributed them amongst the Native Americans?

All the kids in their costumes.

Our tribe on the stairs.

After each family shared we had a feast. Every one brought different foods the Native Americans would have eaten.
Corn chips, beans, hominy, hominy with cactus, vegetable mush, wild rice, smoked turkey, dried meat, smoked fish, nuts and berries. (not pictured but also sampled; cactus pear, raspberries, meat and potato soup, elk sausage) It was all so tasty.

I tried fish eggs. Salty but not bad.

When all the indoor stuff was done, the kids went outside to enjoy the snow. They made forts, went snow boarding and had an absolute blast!

The boys stayed outside for hours while the girls came in to warm up and make some crafts.

It was such a fun day!

The three Sioux Indians traveled home that day being enriched by the others, knowing that community is important and sharing our stories is important too.

Because Every Vote Matters!

2008-11-20T12:09:00.002-05:00

Here is your opportunity to have your opinion heard.

PLEASE HELP SETTLE THE DEBATE-
When you say the word thanks do you pronounce it with a short or long A sound?

Short a is A as in cat.
Long a is A as in ate.

Cast your vote here or in the comments section of my status on facebook.
ThAnk you!

Sudden Confidence

2008-11-15T19:32:00.004-05:00

As I mentioned in the previous post that little girl loves words. Loves them.

Well I just had to share what happened today. With her brother gone on a sleepover and Daddy out of town, little girl and I decided to go on a date. She chose the mall, where we ate Little Easy(Orange chicken and rice) then walked around looking at a few different shops. She decided she wanted to go to the bookstore to look at books. Of course we did. She decided she wanted to use her own allowance money to buy a book so she carefully pondered over which was THE RIGHT book. She settled on a compilation book of Biscuit.

With our purchases complete we went next to the library. On our way to the library little girl took her new book and slowly and carefully read EVERY word of the first story. This was such a huge step for her as usually when she reads a book it is a story from our curriculum and all the words are previewed and known. So this book, Time For Bed Biscuit was her first true read of new unknown words where she was challenged to sound it out for herself. Especially with me driving and unable to see the pages.

She was SO PROUD of herself.

At the library there was a new and sudden confidence about her, she KNEW she could read. As she looked over the books on the easy reader shelf, she would look at it and say, I can read this one mom. So she chose a few off the shelves for her to bring home.

I love it! Her confidence as a reader just shot up about 100 points, simply because we went on a date and went to the bookstore. Watch out we have a reader on the loose.

According to facebook...I am

2008-11-13T19:50:00.000-05:00

calm and quiet
you are the sort of person who likes to take life slowly... just one day at a time.. you usually know the difference between right and wrong. you believe in yourself. you put yourself in other peoples shoes and see how it feels to be them and then handle a situation accordingly.your attitude towards life is very positive.... you are liked by all and are a great friend.the flip side is that sometimes you care too much about other people and don't do what you really wanna do..

Words

2008-11-13T12:44:00.003-05:00

The mind is so amazing!
I am more and more convinced of this with each passing school day. The fact that we enter this world knowing nothing but our mothers voice. We quickly learn the usefulness of a cry and which cry to use when. Then we begin to recognize different things. Those things start to take on meanings and soon an identity; a word.
Words. They in themselves amaze me. Then you add on the fact that we can vocalize them, understand their meaning, spell them, write them, use them to convey a message. Words are powerful!
Watching my kids decode these lettered mysteries has been so much fun for me.
My daughter is an auditory learner. She walks around the house all day long, saying words, sounding them out, spelling them. Sometimes she takes it to the next level and makes list of all the words she knows. She is a lover of words to the core.
A friend of mine was telling me at the start of the school year about her daughters word wall at school. With each new sight word, the teacher adds it to the wall. It sounded like a splendid idea so we started our own. She loves watching new words appear on the wall and she randomly goes to it and makes sentences with her known words. She loves it so much she wants to add EVERY word she knows to it. We have not gone that far but I am thinking about adding some of her word family words so that she can be more creative in her sentence building. One of her sentences from this morning; my mother has a orange
Words.
Words.
Words.
I
L-O-V-E
T-H-E-M
Y-E-S I D-O

Blah!

2008-11-11T13:39:00.002-05:00

In the midst of good days I have had a few blah moments.

The sudden change in temperature has been leaving me chilled. I like the gradual decrease to freezing. Not the 70 on Friday and snowing on Sunday. Yikes.

Struggling with prioritizing. So many distractions...so much left to do.

Blood work came back abnormal. Which means I have another ultrasound on Monday. Not excited about it but willing to do what it takes to get an accurate diagnosis. In the mean time I am staying positive and neutral.

Not feeling like myself. But still me.

Worth It!

2008-11-08T12:31:00.000-05:00

I love this song!

Who Knows What This Post Will Be...

2008-11-06T08:22:00.003-05:00

Most likely random fragments of life and pondering.

We started the school yesterday morning and after about 2 minutes I wondered why we have never established school rules. This was probably brought on by the thoughts of 'What will happen if I am forced to place my kids in school?' So I decided yesterday that we would come up with our classroom rules. With the kids input, this is what we came up with:
1. Sit properly in your chair. -sons contribution
2. Listen attentively - we have been studying attentiveness
3. Use kind and respectful words. -A must! No whining, complaining, arguing, words of anger, etc.
4. Respect others personal space and property. -We have an issue of hands to ourselves at the moment. So another must!
5. Do your very best.
6. Follow directions and obey.
We made out charts to track their progress and motivate them to follow them. They are both excited about the rules. I remember in 9th grade English, my teacher (Crowly) had some very simple, yet must be observed rules and everyone felt safe in her class. I think her two rules were, no putting down others and give me your best. Those two concepts alone changed the dynamic of her class room. Hoping it works the same magic in mine.

I have a peace about Obama being president-elect. I think some change he will bring will be good. I just truly pray he does not go after parental rights. Especially my right to homeschool. Which according to his views page he does OPPOSE. It would be a sad day in our home and for our nation if he did. Hence the thinking about what would happen question above.

Been having some medical tests. Awaiting their results. Trusting in Him, regardless of the reults.

Went to theater production at the Warton Center, If You Give a Pig a Pancake and other childrens stories. It was super cute and very funny. The kids and I laughed our way through the whole show. I love that our co-op creates these opportunities for me and my kids. Love it.

Been on facebook and the computer too much for the last 72 hours so after I press the publish button on this post the internet will be off for the remainder of the day! I will return tomorrow.

Love the weather the last few days. Warmth and crunchy leaves, yes! Been trying to get outdoors still. Went on a good hike on Tuesday. May go on another today. Hopefully.

Little girl is finally tall enough to climb the rock wall at the YMCA. She made it 2/3 of the way up on her first try.
The boy challenged himself to the "new" third more difficult climb; he was the first kid to make it to the top. Making him the youngest for the most current configuration. You should have seen his determination and then his smile on completing it.

Have a beautiful day! Remember you are loved. See ya soon.

What would you do if were asked to go on a Chrysalis weekend?

2008-11-03T07:41:00.005-05:00

I would go!

Yet another Chrysalis Flight has come and gone. And amazingly, God was there, as always . At the close of the weekend those participating were asked 2 questions.

What did this weekend mean to you?
What do you intend to do with it when you get home?

I love getting glimpses of what God did in a persons life over the course of those three days. God is amazing. He is good.
And then to see how someone wants to apply that and share the love with others...I get excited just thinking about it.

Then I have to stop and reflect myself...what did this weekend mean to me? What am I going to do about it?

For me this weekend was about watching each life story; the good, the bad and the ugly be used for God's glory. And watching broken hearts, be reminded of how much they are loved. It was a time of watching the power of laughter, the healing power of a good cry. The importance of a listening ear. The power in sharing my story. The importance of obedience. Taking a God moment to bless someone eternally. The need to be in constant prayer and study with God.
And taking action, being the hands and feet of Christ. I am reminded the power of a smile, a hug and a timely word. I am forever certain that God loves.

As for what I intend to do now that I am home... I intend to connect with these ladies. Pour into their lives and lift them up in prayer. I plan to dig deeper into the word. I plan to keep telling my story. And I will obey...even in the ridiculous!

God Loves You and So Do I
One of His...Super Models ;)

Feel free to share what this weekend may have meant to you.

Chrysalis prayer

2008-10-30T11:42:00.004-04:00

It is time for another Chrysalis flight, where many will come and feel the Love of Christ. This is my prayer...

Dear Heavenly Father I pray that this weekend I will used for your glory. Be with these ladies that are coming Lord. surround them with your Holy Spirit. Show them your love. Encourage them. Break down walls; help them to let go of things in their life that are holding them back from you. I pray for healing in their lives. Lord, reveal yourself mightily this weekend. Teach them who you are. That they may not deny your goodness, your love or your Son. I pray for the brokenhearted, that you would heal their hearts. For those who had experienced loss, let them know you see their tears. Lord bless these girls. I pray for this team you have established for such a time as this, for this moment. Minister through them and to them. Let them be your hands and feet, let Christ be seen in each and everyone one of us there. For those giving talks boldness, honesty, clarity of speech and content. Thank you for each testimony you have given. For our lives to be used for your glory; the good and the bad, bearing fruit in your name. I pray for those working behind the scenes. Give them strength and endurance. Eyes to see what needs to be done and obedience to see it through to completion. Bless them for their work O God. Father protect our families who remain at home. Send forth your angels to guide and protect. Keep them safe from all harm intended by the evil one. Let our families draw from your strength. Bless them Lord. Thank you for the leaders. Thank you for their faithfulness. Give them wisdom and understanding. Guide them by your Holy Spirit. Thank you for this weekend. Thank you for lives changed and renewed. For freedom and wings to fly. Praise and Glory be to you alone. In Jesus Name Amen!

The Eye and Other Senses

2008-10-28T15:08:00.008-04:00

The month of October we have been exploring our senses.
Today we went to the eye doctor to get an eye exam.

The kids enjoyed telling the doctor all about the eye. They found it interesting the different "tests" they had to do especially the one for depth perception. Yet all of it "Was cool!"
I appreciated finding out that their vision is "perfect."

If you have not had your kids eyes checked, take them in. Mine found it to be a fun field trip.

Here are some pictures from our Konos day, at the beginning of the month, where we explored our senses.
My boy cutting up a cow eye ball...

All the kids watching to see what to do next. They each had their own eye.

I love dissection!

Tasting...

Smelling...

The scent revealed.

Touching...with gloves.

Feeling in a bag.

For hearing they listened to sounds and tried to identify them. It was a fun day. I am so thankful to have other families to enjoy learning with.

Back to the Y

2008-10-27T20:29:00.002-04:00

After months on inactivity, I went to the YMCA tonight.
Its about time I got moving.

Orchard 2008

2008-10-25T19:37:00.005-04:00

Today I convinced my husband to go to the orchard. We ended up meeting some friends and enjoyed an afternoon picking apples.

The apple picker...

Look at them apples...

Picking...

Apple jackpot.

My hubby as Mr. Wilson...

On top of the world...

The kids enjoying a wagon ride...

Pumpkin

Apple pie, pumpkin pie and pumpkin seeds are in our immediate future. :)

Homeschool!?

2008-10-24T17:02:00.004-04:00

This started out as a response in facebook but was too long to leave as a comment. So it became a post instead.

On the discussion of home school, we will continue to do so as long as it is working for our family. Hubby and I knew would homeschool within the first year of marriage, long before we had even conceived. One reason being that Hubby grew up next to a homeschool family and they dispelled every myth and fear one could ever have about homeschooling. These kids are the most well rounded socialized people we have EVER met. They are extremely bright. Involved within the community and just great people to be around.

So much has changed in the realm of homeschooling since the days of ding dong ditch, when kids literally had to hide the fact that they were home schooled out of fear the government would take them away. Michigan now has embraced the parents right to educate their children and with that the doors of opportunity have flown open and continue to grow. There are now co-ops, shared teaching, sports for home schoolers, science fairs, group field trips, mentors, music ensembles, choir and symphonic bands...the list is endless. There are used curriculum sales and state wide seminars. There are more curriculum choices than you could ever imagine. Not to mention resources found on the internet, at the library and different organizations.

Other reasons we home school are we feel it the parents responsibility to teach their children. I am not one that cookie cutters every family and says ALL should home school. I think it is a personal choice that each family has to make. Our family has chosen to school at home. We have the freedom to teach our kids what we feel is important. Mainly being our faith. While omitting, at least in the fundamental years, that which we do not believe to be of value or that which we feel is detrimental.

I like that we can individualize their educations. No two children are the same and I love that we can strengthen those things that are of greater interest. We can also spend more time developing those areas of weakness. We can go on field trips galore and turn everyday life experiences into moments of learning. I find that since I have this responsabilty of being the sole educator I am very mindful of what is being taught. I discuss in greater detail. I talk to my kids like they are people, with their own thoughts and ideas. I love dialoguing with them about what they think about certain things. Because I know what they are learning or experiencing I am able to reinforce things throughout the day or while driving in the car. I also know what interests they have and make opportunities for them to grow and excel in those areas.

I think so many parents want to be involved more deeply in their kids life and education. I have many friends that are sucessful in this. One in particular has made it a point to read every evening with her kids and the rewards have been great. She has great readers and writers. It is a time they all look forward to. It is also a time where they can discuss things going on in their world. My biggest pet peeve with public schools is not the teachers, or the kids. It is not the curriculum. It is the other parents. I see far too often parents disengaging themselves completely from their childrens education. It appears that the mentailty is school is for learning and it ends there. The church should teach you all you need to know about God and it ends there.

If I were to encourage you, whether you homeschool or not; be involved in your kids lives. Ask them questions about their day. Take interest in what they are learning. Read with them even when they can read for themselves. Take them new places and create new learning experiences. Your enthusiasm or distain will rub off on them. Find out what your kid is interested in and give them freedom to explore it. And as I mentioned in my previous post, get them outside; enjoying nature. Nature can be one of the best teachers of all.

Operation Get Outdoors

2008-10-23T16:32:00.007-04:00

Today we declared it Get Outdoors Day. We dressed in layers and headed outside. Subway in hand I told the kids to find a spot to eat our picnic lunch. There were picnic tables near-by but they chose these rocks instead.

From this rock perch we discussed using all our senses to explore.
Then we set off with sketch pads in hand. They could go wherever they wanted and stop to draw something if they liked.
Here is the boy deep in thought, drawing some trees in the maple forest.

Little girl found a spot on a rock and made one of her drawings.

She was super proud of her picture. Which shows all the small trees beneath the taller ones.

Raccoon tracks

Deer tracks.

Investigating.

This is a close up of what they are looking at. A spider and sap on the log. As well as the rings.

We came across a cool observation shed. It had slits that you could see out.

They drew so many different pictures. Trees, woodpecker, squirrel, carvings of a compass...

It was such a great afternoon.

It was a day well spent.

Richard Louv on the Today Show

2008-10-23T16:31:00.001-04:00

The Effects of Nature

2008-10-23T09:36:00.004-04:00

As a kid I lived outside. I could orient myself and tell time by the sun. My favorite place to be was up in a tree. I felt safe, secure and happy in a tree. The higher the better as I could see more of our world from the perch in my back yard. I am extremely fortunate in the fact that I was born into a family that frequently appreciated the outdoors. We camped at state parks, hiked trails at nature centers and explored different environments on a regular basis. I know I am a richer person because of it.
On my date with my Dad last night we went to see a lecture by Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder. I am so glad we went.
Our nation is in desperate need of reconnecting with nature. Obesity is on the rise(even with organized sports) more kids than ever are on antidepressants and there is an alarming amount of kids that have been diagnosed with ADHD. I am talking about our children here. We live in a generation that would rather watch a program on TV about nature rather than be in nature experiencing it for themselves. We live in a generation that believes they know more than those who came before, yet they do not know true real life experiences. We are loosing our kids to technology and I think unless some very intentional things happen, nature will be lost to this generation and the ones that follow.
During the lecture the phrase 'in our schools' kept surfacing and research that had shown the effect on our kids when they encountered nature. . There have been studies that show kids who learn by natural light perform better than those who use artificial light. There have been studies that show kids who had one week of outdoor nature experiences scored better on tests. Those who walked in parks; were more relaxed, better focused and performed better on tests. Nature has had huge calming affect on those with ADHD and some studies show it should be included in ADHD therapy. To sum up the research, Kids are happier, healthier and smarter when they experience nature.
The phrase 'in our schools' stuck out to me for many reasons.
1. The schools are under restrictions and pressure. They often do not get the opportunity to get their kids truly outdoors as field trips require planning and funding. Their schedules are restricted to make more time prepping for standardized testing, meaning shorter recesses.
2. I see the effects in my nieces and nephews who are in the school.
3. I am not nor our my kids in the public school. So everything mentioned on the school front I automatically process through the mentality of how can this information be altered to benefit my homeschool.

So how can I take what was discussed and apply it to our home school? I believe I need to get back to nature. I no longer want to be content reading about it in a book. I want to go, explore and see if we can see it live. I want to include at least one half day a week of nature study. Going to different parks; watching the leaves change color and fall to the ground. Hiking trails. Getting knee deep in a pond with a skimming net. Tracking animals. Laying out under the stars. Seeking out different habitats and ecosystems. I want my kids to know how to fish. I want my kids to know how to hunt. I want them to know how to survive in the wild. And I truly believe to do this it will have to be intentional.

Yesterday before the lecture I was having a discussion with my son, age 7. He was asking where I was going to go with my dad. I told him about the author, the book and the authors views. We talked about our families take on TV, computer, books, education, exercise and nature. Then we discussed how other families do not get outside, that their kids are content to watch TV all day. It was about this point that he exclaimed "cool." I mean really doesn't it sound great to watch TV all day. So being ever wise, he proposed a social experiment. He would stay in his room for a week, not talk to anyone, nor go outside or interact with anything living. We talked about what variables would be part of "the experiment." Would my fish stay in my room? No, that would be considered nature. Oh and we should probably cover the window so you can't see outside. And your books, those should probably go to. And if we wanted to make this truly a technology verses nature experiment we should get rid of your toys for the week too. Just you, the TV and video games. Food would be delivered to your room and you could come out only to go to the bathroom.
Sound like a good plan....not to me! But he was all over it. He was ready to start that moment. But rather than a week he quickly decided that a day would be good. Somewhere in his brain he was already counting the cost and isolation for an extended period of time did not sound so pleasent. But a day off of school with the TV, this he thinks he could handle. All in the name of a social experiment.
We called dad for approval and it got pushed to the needs further discussion plate. After further discussion we stil don't know if we are going to let him try it. On one hand what damage could be done in 24 hours? What could be learned? Is it worth it?
Personally, I think he would happily kiss us good-bye. Shut the door and escape into TV oblivion. For about 2-3 hours, then I think he would venture out, just to see what we were doing. Or he would convince his siter to join him. I think he would grasp the concepts of isolation and the effects it has on a person. I think he may also try to play up the fun that video games and TV can offer. I think he would experience lonliness. I think he would want to be outside, especially if he could here others playing outside. I think the experiment has merit but can we achieve the same observations without having to experience it? What do you think?

There is definitely an interesting current and discussion of all things nature in our home this week. One I am glad to be reminded of. I homeschool for a reason. I am not stuck to a desk or a set format for the education of my children. Sometimes I need to be reminded that seat work is not were true education happens.

As Louv said, "Kids in nature are happier, healthier and smarter." Isn't that what every parent wants for our kids? If you do, get your kids outside today. A sense of wonder awaits them.

Oh and one last thing, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ LOUV'S BOOK. Last Child in the Woods.

Like a Good Girlscout

2008-10-22T09:28:00.003-04:00

Reading Blueberries for Sal , the words 'to store them up for winter' ring through my head. I have been thinking, don't worry I do this daily. I have been thinking about our grandparents. They were of a generation that wanted to be prepared. They had cellars lined with food to get them through the winter. They had root cellars filled with potatoes. They filled their ice chests with meat, both bought and hunted. They canned in harvest. When winter came they had food to see them through.
I know from reading blogs that the art of canning and storing up food is not completely lost in this generation but I do believe it is a dying art. And of those of us who do not can, do we even store up? I have seen a few signs in the last months for ready.gov around town. It is the governments readiness program. Ready for what? Who knows; floods, hurricanes, natural disasters, health epidemics, economic crisis'. I am not sure what all it covers but I think it has merit. They encourage Americans to be prepared for any kind of emergency, making a kit. Do I have a said kit? Ummm no. I have random supplies scattered EVERYWHERE through out my home. Candles one place, matches in another, flashlight (w/o batteries) that's helpful. Do I have food to sustain us? These are things I think about. I want to be more deligent. I want to be more prepared. Whether it be a power outage, a falling economy or some other unknown, I want to be prepared.
I think it's time I get it done. My girl scout leader would be so proud.

Happy 5th Birthday

2008-10-14T18:48:00.001-04:00

Little Miss,

This has been a year of growth. Last year you were extremely shy, not wanting to talk to anyone but your closest family. This year, you have made huge steps. Greeting others, saying thank you and answering questions sent your way. I am so proud of you. I know God is growing you into the young lady He has called you to be. Watching you emerge is been beautiful.

In school you are officially in Kindergarten. With your own school and your own desk. You are a quick learner, soaking everything up. You love words. In your spare time you love to say, spell and write the different words you know. You love books and want to be a librarian when you grow up. Now that you are reading beginning books it is fun to see that love and passion grow. I hope it is a love you never loose.

In school you count to 100 by 1's and 10's. You know all the letters and their sounds. You write well. Reading is emerging and you learn new words everyday. You love science and nature. Especially animals, one of your favorite thing to do is to write animals you see in your animal book. You are ever watchful and on alert.

There are many things I love about you. You are adventurous. You love to explore and try new things. Including ethnic foods. You push yourself to do what others may not even try. Such as climbing the tree in our front year. You have persevered and conquered your goal. I know with your determination you will go far.

You are a great sister. It is fun to watch you and your brother snuggled up reading or watching a movie together. I hope you never forget, he is one of your best friends. Now and for many years to come.

You still love to snuggle up in my lap. As you are growing bigger all the time I know the day will come when you no longer fit. I cherish these moments. The smell of your hair, your giggling body and smiling face. I can not help but kiss you, you are so cute I could eat you up.

You are active. You completed another triathlon this year. You love to run and ride your bike. You and the neighbor girl can ride up and down the sidewalk for hours. You also enjoy to swing and dance. Will you dance, sing or cheer lead when you are older? These are things I wonder. You are so full of potential, I can not wait to see God's plan for your life unfold.

You are beautiful. You are lovely. You are growing. You are strong. You are loved. You are cherished. You are my sweet little girl.

I love you!
Mom

Birthday Girl

2008-10-14T17:51:00.002-04:00

Birthday Breakfast of pink heart pancakes and sausage

One happy 5 year old

Crane Fest

2008-10-13T17:04:00.004-04:00

I mentioned in previous posts that the kids and I were planning on attending the Crane Fest. Will attend we did.
It was such a great, fun and inexpensive way to spend a Fall day. There were so many activities and things to see and do that we spent the large majority of the day there. Here is our day in pictures.

There were many different organizations that brought animals such as this owl.

A peregrine falcon

Here is how you can tell the difference between a hawk and a falcon in flight.

This tortoise was out walking ALL DAY. Whoever said tortoises were slow never met this guy. He literally walked MILES throughout the course of the day.

The local high school had decorated wooden cranes as an art project, we had fun picking out our favorites.

Pirate Crane

Super Crane

Checking out the different rocks at one of the booths.

Looking through one of many different binoculars and scopes to get a better look at the birds.

Little Miss as a butterfly

This is Captain Cattail. He led the kids on a hike and then stopped here to talk about water.

He strongly encouraged the kids to get out and explore. So here is my troupe exploring.

They found this cute little toad.

The hayride.

Shuckin' corn the old fashion way.

Below are the kids making rope. This was probably a highlight of the day.

They made teh ropes the perfect length for jump roping.

The color was fabulous and the sun was shining. Who could ask for anything more?

Around dinner time we settled into our chairs and watched as the cranes came in. It was really cool watching them fly in. There were hundreds by the time we left. They were landing in the water seen below.

Thanks for letting me share our day.

Gorgeous Day

2008-10-11T10:17:00.004-04:00

Today is such a gorgeous Fall day!
Perfect for apple picking, raking the yard, football or the Crane Fest.

We will be going to the Crane Fest. See this post for more info.

Whatever you do enjoy the day!

Game Night Quotes

2008-10-11T01:12:00.002-04:00

"I can't wait for the runs."

"That's a compliment in a very negative way."

"RACKO!" "Nooooope."

"Your pants are talking to me."

"Does anyone else hear the party in his pants?"

555

"Pure. Madonna?" 'Like a Virgin'

"Skip Sarah."

"You are sooo mean!"

"That cake is the bomb diggity."

"You did a Kristin."

"Hi. My name is Tom."

"What would you do if...."

Thanks ladies for a fantabulously fun evening. I no longer need an ab workout this weekend. I think I laughed so hard they may even be sore tomorrow.

15 Minutes

2008-10-09T07:48:00.002-04:00

This the amount of time I am going to allot myself both today and tomorrow for the computer.
With a house to clean, kids to pay attention to and distractions galore coming from the computer.
15 minutes is all I am going to allow.
We shall see how this goes.

I am "The Perfect Mother"

2008-10-07T21:43:00.002-04:00

Facebook told me so...
I had to laugh at this Quiz my friend sent me on facebook. It actually pegged me quite well. I guess I am the perfect mother. Hey...don't pop my bubble I am basking in my brief moment of glory.

Here is what it said:
You were born for motherhood. You gave birth naturally- no drugs should ever be in your system. You are earth-friendly. You believe in education and knowledge for your family. You would love to home-school. You bake cookies and whip up fabulous meals. Your children are the most precious gift you could give to the world.

This Morning

2008-10-07T08:22:00.001-04:00

ME: We have a dentist appointment today.
DD: I am going to get dumb again.
ME: Do you mean numb?
DD: Yeah numb.
PHEW!

Little Girls got Skillz

2008-09-25T09:55:00.000-04:00

Check out her new skills by watching this video.

Presenting the Deck

2008-09-23T16:20:00.007-04:00

The back of the house BEFORE:

and AFTER

A view from an angle.

There you have it folks, the deck is done. Now if I could just get all the scrap wood picked up. :)

The Deck...

2008-09-23T12:45:00.001-04:00

is almost done!
The steps are built. There are just a few loose ends to complete. Pictures to follow soon.

Mark Your Calendars

2008-09-19T17:47:00.002-04:00

Crane Fest XIV
Saturday and Sunday, October 11 &12, noon- 7pm
Free Admission
Parking only $3
Where: Kiwanis Youth Area and adjoining Michigan Audubon Baker Sanctuary.

What to do-
Crane Viewing- Best viewing after 4pm
Literally hundreds of birds come and gather together for mass migration south.
Art Show and Sale
Nature Discovery- Free interactive exhibit of 40+ live species of Michigan reptiles and amphibians.
Guided Nature Walks.- Free Explore nature trails with an expert.
Live Raptors- Free Birds of prey shown by Michigan Hawking Club
Birding for Beginners- Free. Learn the basics from Audubon experts.
Earthbound- Awareness organization will be providing educational materials.
Wild Ones- Michigan native wildflowers and plants for sale and natural landscaping advise.
Book Signing- On teh Wings of Cranes- Lowell Schakes' biography on Lawerence Walkinshaw.
Cranes as Art- Bellevue High School.
Bird Seed Sale
Old Time Farm Equipment- Free Hay rides. Rope making, corn shelling and more. Old fashion fun for the family.
Nature Book store and crafts.
Food concessions.

Something for everyone!

My Big Idea

2008-09-18T11:23:00.005-04:00

Today is Gym day again and I lay awake this morning finalizing my plans when it hit me, my big idea.
But first let me back up to last weekend to give you a bit of history.
Last weekend my family went to help a family friend move his business to a new location across town. About 20-25 people showed up for the move and I have to say many hands make light work. Within a half hour the store front was empty and the first load loaded into the trailer. The second load shortly behind that with all the stuff from the back room. Now originally the owner did not want to burden his friends with a lot of work so he was thankful for the upstairs being done. When we saw what still remained in the basement we convinced him to let us help him get as much as we could from the basement or he would be there all month and beyond. So we set up a simple bucket brigade to hand along the items up the stairs and to the hands of someone who carried it to the truck. It was awesome. Small but heavy boxes passed easily from person to person and the load was light as we worked together.
So that is part one.
Then over the course of the week we have been discussing fire fighters, fire safety and you guessed it I remembered the bucket brigade and its original usefulness in helping communities put out fires.
So here is my big idea:
I am going to line the kids up in a line and have them pass basketballs toward a "fire." The person on the end will then throw the ball at the fire from a predetermined distance(we don't want to get too close to the fire.) Then they will take their "bucket" back to the end and keep going until I determine the fire is out.
I think this will teach them so many different things.
1. Taking turns
2. Working together to solve a problem.
3. Throwing a ball and aiming
4. Retrieving the ball
5. Getting back in line
6. History in fire fighting

I am super excited! I can't wait to see how it works.

Pictures for your Viewing Pleasure

2008-09-18T11:23:00.004-04:00

P.E Homeschool Style.
The boy came up with this idea for goals. Ingenious.

Remember the muddy mess my kids got into? Oh Yeah, that whole little fiasco did not make it's appearance on the blog yet. So here you go...

It was not so much the muddy kids that bothered me. It was the mess after the mud. Very thankful for bath tubs, cleaning supplies and washing machine!

And these beauties are currently on my kitchen table. Adding cutting flowers to the garden was a definite hit.

If I Say Nothing Else Today...

2008-09-15T08:47:00.002-04:00

Hear this!
You are loved.
There is hope.
You do not need to be alone in your pain.
There is forgiveness.
There is healing.

I have been reminded of how hard it can to be to live in this world.
A friend showed me this site last night and it's story is one I think EVERY ONE should read.
To Write Love on Her Arms
Go read it now...the whole page please.
Remember- God Loves You and So Do I