Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Lesson Planning - What Works for Me

My lesson plans for January are done. Yippee! I've also run off any copies needed for the month and made a note of any necessary supplies. (Chicken bone? Cow bone!)

My 8th grader asked for his lessons for the whole month at once. I was glad to comply. He is doing very well with working independently. He asked for a page for each subject. The first picture is of his Science assignment page. If you click, you should be able to see it larger. You'll see I am not very detailed with the plans - just the pages and any assigned experiments. He will do it all on his own, unless he has questions.

~~~~~~
EDITED to answer Jen's questions:
As far as David's monthly schedule, when he finishes the assignments for the month is he done? Say he wants to do all of his science in 3 days, or whatever? Is he done with Science for the month, or would you give him more?

If David finishes all his Science assignments in 3 days, yes, he is done for the month. I might take the increased speed into account the next month when I chose the assignments, giving him more work. Shhhh..... Don't tell him that.
~~~~~~

The other three didn't do as well with a whole month's worth of assignments, so I typed up their lessons in a weekly grid - days across the top, subjects down the left side. The second picture is of one of Emily's assignment sheets. Again, not a lot of detail. The younger kids will come to me if they don't know what to do, and some of their work is with me anyway.

I stapled to the weekly sheet any worksheets they are going to need, such as handwriting. They will get each lesson sheet on Monday and be expected to complete each day's assignments on the correct day. They can work ahead, if they want. (However, I don't imagine any of them actually will.)


I print a copy of each sheet for my plan book and a copy for the kids.

When they complete a lesson, they can check it off, X it out, or write the date - whatever works for them. I write the date complete on each lesson in my book for David and check off the assignments the other kids complete.

This is what's working for us right now!

What's working for you? Or do you have questions about how this works for us?

Monday, December 29, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - December 29

Well, it's Monday! Since I am awake, I am going to do the daybook. Even if it is almost 3 am.

I've been lesson planning!
For Today... December 29, 2008

Outside my Window... It's DARK out there! But the snow is almost all melted. Hard to believe! All that rain. There was a huge puddle in my driveway earlier and the ground was mushy.

I am thinking... about introverts and extroverts and the way each one's mental energy is dissipated and renewed.

From the learning rooms... I am working on the lesson plans for January. Going to get the whole month's done before Jan 5th when we start back in earnest.

I am thankful for... my oldest child who turns 14 today! Look how sweet he is being here with his little sister!

From the kitchen... A LOT of leftovers. Cooked a ham today and so there are those leftovers too. Going to make some Chex Mix for New Year's. Oh yeah, and I bought a birthday cake at Walmart for my teenager!

I am wearing... PJ's - grey long sleeved stretchy t-shirt and bright red cotton pants with white hearts all over them, my burgundy fleece robe (with teensy white hearts on it) and my well worn blue SmartWool socks. Hair washed and a bit damp still.

I am reading... a lot lately! Four books in the last four days. But I finished Deeanne Gist's A Bride Most Begrudging earlier today (HIGHLY recommend!) and didn't start anything else yet. I am still browsing through Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass. Still trying to find time to listen to The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon, but it's not happening!

I am hoping... I am not too grumpy tomorrow from staying up FAR too late.

I am creating... lesson plans, as I mentioned.

I am hearing... the clock ticking.

Around the house... Christmas tree is up still. It will come down next weekend.

One of my favorite things... my SmartWool socks I mentioned above. The ONLY wool socks I've ever found that are a joy to wear. I have two pair that I WON from a store in Frankenmuth a few years back and they are almost worn out. I need to buy more, but they are more expensive than I am used to, so I resist. Mine are blue, not purple like this pic.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
David's birthday celebration tonight, thrift store sale Jan 1, book club on Saturday (Oh yay!! yay!!), completing my to-do list

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you... Emily made the birthday cake for Jesus by herself and decorated it too. She was quite pleased with the results! (Thanks, Jen, for the idea to use those pans!!)

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Weekly Review - Week 17

This was only SORT of a school-y week.

Bible

  • We read Luke 2.
  • We read Chapter 3 of Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends
Math
  • David did page 3B and that completed his December lessons.
  • Emily continued working on multiple digit multiplication with regrouping. This is HARD for her.
  • James finished Lesson 13 (Skip Count by 6, Equivalent Fractions) and took Test 13 in Gamma.
  • Suzy did 2 lessons in Lesson 14 (Addition, Doubles +1 and Associative Property) in Alpha.
Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • David read Chapters 12-14 in Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison by Lois Lenski and answered comprehension questions, some written, some orally.
  • Emily read Chapters 32-35 in Anne of Green Gables and answered comprehension questions, some written, some orally.
  • James did 3 Read and Think Skill Sheets (A Beka).
  • Suzy read 1 Bob Book from the second set and wrote in her literature journal.
  • Everyone did some silent reading throughout the week.
Language Arts - Writing
  • Everyone wrote 2 thank you notes.
  • Everyone wrote in their Communication Journals.
Language Arts - Other
  • David and Emily both did several pages in Easy Grammar about prepositions.
Science
  • No Science this week.
History
  • David read Chapters 5-7 in History of Us: Book 4 (by Joy Hakim).
Other activities
  • Shopping together on Tuesday.
  • Christmas Eve family time on Wednesday
  • Christmas Day on Thursday
  • Saturday we had friends over

Friday, December 26, 2008

Friday Fill-in #104

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1. I must live before I die.

2. You can't stop time.

3. I wish I never had to buy tampons again.

4. God has helped me change my life.

5. I know the song(s) from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat by heart.

6. If I weren't so afraid, I would go skydiving. (LOL, not really! But I can't think of anything to put here.)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching a movie, tomorrow my plans include cleaning house and relaxing and Sunday, I want to relax!

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Playing Outside

My two youngest have been amazing me with their tolerance for the cold weather! They love playing in the snow! We have a lot of it.

Yesterday they begged to go out. It was 17 degrees. I agreed, thinking they'd be back in within minutes. They played out for at least an hour, I am sure. I wish I had timed it. They came in rosy-cheeked and very happy. Then they wanted to go out again just before dark, so I let them and they played out for another good long time. Reports are they were making a snow cave. They wanted to go out again after dinner, but I said no.

Wish there were more daylight hours! I do remember playing out in the snow myself after dark, by the lights in the parking lot, all bundled in my snowmobile suit and moonboots.

They played out again today for about an hour, or maybe longer. It was a bit warmer today, but not much. We are supposed to be getting more snow, so I am sure they'll play outside tomorrow too. I'll try to get some good pictures, but that means I have to go out myself.

And how do I get the older ones out there???

And I want to start my family on cross-country skiing as that is the only winter sport I think I could manage to enjoy.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - December 22

For Today... December 22, 2008

Outside my Window... About a foot of the frozen white stuff, empty recycle bin, a plowed sidewalk (the village came through with their plowing machine), and very very cold temperatures.

I am thinking... about the onerous new law called CPSIA and its far-reaching implications and what can be done to stop it!

From the learning rooms... We are still doing lessons, although it appears that most of the civilized world has stopped. Still trying to catch up from our sickly weeks.

I am thankful for... a lovely holiday with family (Saturday). The cousins played together so well!

From the kitchen... Lots of Christmas-y things - loaves of quick bread we were given, boxes and bags of candy, ingredients for special Christmas treats

I am wearing... a pair of jeans I forgot I had!, a thin long sleeved black shirt and a apple green flannel shirt buttoned up, white socks, my red fleece slippers, no makeup, hair combed. Thinking about putting on a sweatshirt!

I am reading... Buckingham Palace Gardens by Anne Perry (my last 888 book!!!) and Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass. Still trying to find time to listen to The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon, but it's not happening!

I am hoping... to get to the store today or tomorrow - groceries and last minute items.

I am creating... hmmmm.... Christmas memories??

I am hearing... Bob helping Suzy with her math ("I can do it all!!"), James looking for a pencil, Emily turning pages

Around the house... Wrapped presents under the tree and more presents needing to be wrapped. A couple bedrooms that need cleaned before the big day.

One of my favorite things... SPRING!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
Mostly staying home! YAY! I need to make a grocery store run before Christmas Day and there are a few odds and ends to get. Christmas Eve we might go to the service at church. We'll drop in on Bob's parents for a short visit. I may go clearance shopping on Friday - anyone wanna go?

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Here are the kids making their card houses. For a more professional idea of what card houses can look like, go here. We use last year's Christmas cards.

Weekly Review - Week 16

Yep, we are still plugging away! I feel like I'm forgetting something, so here's the list I can remember.

Bible

  • We read Philemon (it's just 1 chapter) and listened to Ephesians 1-6 and Philippians 1-6 in the car.
Math
  • David finished Lesson 2 (Order of Operations) in Math-U-See Algebra I and did the Honors lesson. He also did the first assignment in Lesson 3 (Solving for an Unknown with One Variable).
  • Emily continued working on multiple digit multiplication with regrouping. This is HARD for her.
  • James took the test for Lesson 12 and did 3 lessons in Lesson 13 (Skip Count by 6, Equivalent Fractions) in Gamma.
  • Suzy took the test for Lesson 13 and did 3 lessons in Lesson 14 (Addition, Doubles +1 and Associative Property) in Alpha.
  • Suzy and James did online math drills.
Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • David read Chapters 4-11 in Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison by Lois Lenski and answered comprehension questions, some written, some orally.
  • Emily read Chapters 25-31 in Anne of Green Gables and answered comprehension questions, some written, some orally.
  • James read pp 28-60 in Reptiles Do the Strangest Things (finished it) and wrote in his literature journal.
  • Suzy read 3 Bob Books from the second set, as well as the phonics reader I wrote for her (The Pink Gown) and wrote in her literature journal.
  • Everyone did some silent reading throughout the week.
Language Arts - Writing
  • No writing happened this week!
Language Arts - Other
  • David and Emily each did 3 sessions of Spelling Power.
  • David did a couple pages in Easy Grammar, leaving Emily in the dust! lol
  • James did 4 pages in Explode the Code 6.
  • Suzy did 4 pages in Explode the Code 2.
  • Suzy worked online with Sight Words with Samson.
Science
  • No Science this week.
History
  • David read Chapters 1-4 in History of Us: Book 4 (by Joy Hakim) which is about George Washington's presidency and Cabinet, mostly.
  • I read aloud to the younger 3 about the St. Augustine of Hippo and about Jerome translating the Vulgate.
  • The students copied a verse in Latin, each in his or her own "cave" like Jerome.
Other activities
  • Wednesday was a socializing day for us as we went to visit friends all day.
  • Pioneer Club party was Wednesday night for James and Suzy.
  • Friday we were snowed in - supposed to leave for a family celebration, but couldn't leave until Saturday morning.
  • Saturday we spent 5 hours in the car and spent the day with family.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow....

Like we had any choice....

Apparently our area got about 9.5 inches of snow.



Thursday, December 18, 2008

Pendragon DVD!

As the Barbarian fleets descend on the coast, the people of Britain are left to defend themselves...

The first independent Christian film of its kind, Burns Family Studios presents Pendragon: Sword of His Father, an epic film set in Britain's Dark Ages.

With riveting action, stunning visuals, and a powerful score, Pendragon's message of faith, courage, and vision is sure to inspire your family for generations to come.

Today I ordered a copy of the PENDRAGON DVD. My husband and son were extras in this movie and we are interested to see if they made it into the final cut. It looks like a great movie and it was made by a homeschool family and involved many homeschool families.

Go HERE for more information and and here to view the trailers.

The regular price is $22.99 but they are offering a homeschool discount - $18.99! Hurry!

Monday, December 15, 2008

Weekly Review - Week 15

This was a hard week to get back into lessons! I gave the children their assignments for the entire month again. David really likes that but it's harder for the other kids, so I will probably do it for him like that in January, but not them.

Bible

  • We read Acts 26-28, continuing with our study of Paul.
  • We sang our December hymn - O Come All Ye Faithful (7 verses!).
  • We had Family Prayer several days.
Math
  • David began the Algebra I book, completing Lesson 1 and doing the Honors lesson and doing the first assignment in Lesson 2.
  • Emily worked on Lesson 25 (multiple digit multiplication with regrouping) in Gamma. This is HARD for her.
  • James finished Lesson 12 in Gamma (Multiply by 3, 3' = 1 yard, 1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoon).
  • Suzy finished Lesson 13 in Alpha (Shapes: Rectangles, Squares; Skip Counting by 5) and took the test.
  • Suzy and James did online math drills.
Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • David started a new literature book - Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison by Lois Lenski. He read Chapters 1-3 and answered comprehension questions.
  • Emily resumed her reading of Anne of Green Gables, reading Chapters 19-23 and answering comprehension questions.
  • James read pp1-27 in Reptiles Do the Strangest Things and wrote each day in his literature journal.
  • Suzy read 3 Bob Books from the second set and wrote in her literature journal.
  • We started reading James Herriot's Animal Stories as our read-aloud.
  • Everyone did some silent reading throughout the week.
Language Arts - Writing
  • No writing happened this week!
Language Arts - Other
  • James did 6 pages in Explode the Code 6.
  • Suzy did 2 pages in Explode the Code 2.
  • Suzy worked online with Sight Words with Samson.
Science
  • No Science this week.
History
  • David read Chapters 37-42 in History of Us: Book 3 (by Joy Hakim), finishing the book.
  • David is also learning the Preamble to the Constitution (which means the others are hearing it).
  • Emily and James worked on our timeline and did some mapwork.
  • I read aloud about the Mayan civilization and the students worked with the Mayan alphabet a little.
Other activities
  • James and David had Chess Club on Tuesday.
  • The girls and I went to a Christmas Tea Tuesday night. Emily hosted a table, so she had invitations and decorations to arrange. We also had one of her friends overnight and here for lessons Wed morning due to weather.
  • Pioneer Club on Wednesday night for James and Suzy. David runs the computers there.
  • Thursday was COOKIE DAY. We made a lot of Christmas cookies.
  • Friday was our homeschool group's Christmas party, including an hour of swimming. So lots of socialization.
  • David and Emily spent the night with friends and James had two friends here Friday night.
  • Saturday we decorated our house for Christmas - finally!

Simple Woman Daybook - December 15


For Today... December 15, 2008

Outside my Window... A streetlight is casting a glow on the ice and snow. The neighbors have white lights on their porch, garage, and bushes and lighted candy canes lining their walk, as well as an inflatable lighted snowman. (Makes up for the cackling witch, doesn't it? lol) Note: it is 1 am on Monday.

I am thinking... about friendships - the dynamics, the reasons, the expectations, the difficulties, the blessings.

From the learning rooms... Lesson plan sheets have a good start. We need to get three good days in this week and probably two next week in order to accomplish everything I wanted to do for December.

I am thankful for... my husband! He puts up with me and doesn't complain when I want to go out with my friends.

From the kitchen... Assorted candy and graham crackers - we are making "gingerbread" houses this week! I also am going to make penuche. (Yes, my family - penuche for all y'all!) Last week we made a pile of Christmas cookies, so those are here too, as well as a pan of fudge.

I am wearing... Jeans, navy t-shirt under a navy and light blue striped long sleeve shirt, black socks. I did curl my hair and put on makeup. Note: it is 1 am on Monday, so this is my Sunday night look. lol

I am reading... Northpoint Chalet by Debra White Smith and Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass. Still trying to find time to listen to The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon.

I am hoping... that we get good news very soon about Bob's disability hearing. It's been three months since the hearing and we have not gotten the decision yet. Please join me in praying for a miracle!

I am creating... my annual Christmas letter. It's almost done!

I am hearing... the clock ticking and that's all!

Around the house... The Christmas tree and decorations are up, although we don't do very much decorating.

One of my favorite things... a sibling showing love to another sibling.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
3 days of lessons, making gingerbread houses, getting Christmas gifts and food ready for our family celebration over the weekend, visiting friends on Wednesday to watch Mamma Mia, church Christmas party for the kids Wed night. Also my husband is volunteering at the traveling homeless shelter this week and next week. He does that in the middle of the night.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
These are some of the homeschoolers who turned up for our Christmas party on Friday. This was before the action began. We had food, a book exchange and then an hour of swimming. Almost 130 people showed up!

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Recycled denim stocking


Recycled denim stocking
Originally uploaded by Vakuoli
This is a stocking that illustrates what one could do with old jeans!

Ripped jeans and then....

I ripped my favorite comfy pair of jeans this week. Bummer, right? Well, I always leave the ripped jeans sitting around a day or two with the idea that I could do some sort of craft from them.

Here's a cool idea for making Christmas stockings out of old blue jeans. I think I could do this! At least in my mind I can.... Don't dissuade me! (Check the entry above this one for a photo of one.)

I got that idea from THIS page which offers 25 things to do with old jeans. Sounds like a co-op class to me! LOL And I'd ADORE having a quilt made out of old denim. Hmmm.....

Oh, and WOW, check out this Flickr group based around the same idea - reusing old denim. There is a quilt there that is to DIE for. And a basket made of old denim and piles of other great ideas too!

My sewing machine is not working right. Time to take it to the sewing machine repair. My husband, handy as he is, doesn't seem to want to tackle that project. Maybe if I tell him how much it will cost....

Oh my, am I getting CRAFTY now? What is the world coming to?

Friday, December 12, 2008

Friday Fill-in #102

And...here we go!

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1. Friends are hard to come by, but well worth keeping.

2. Wash your hands for health; it's essential.

3. I'm ready for a new favorite author!

4. Jovan Musk for Men is one of my favorite perfumes or aftershaves or smells.

5. The oldest ornament I have is a set of ceramic bells shaped like Santa, elves, etc. They were my husband's grandmother's.

6. Take some crazy women, tasty snacks, chocolate, caffeine, a classic book, and a film adaptation, mix it all together and you have my Rollicking Readers Book Club.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to James and his guests going to SLEEP, tomorrow my plans include returning these kids and getting mine back and probably putting up our tree and Sunday, I want to go see The Day the Earth Stood Still (KEANU!)!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Free Shipping Codes

Here are some codes/deals I used this week for shopping

Free Shipping at Christianbook.com Free shipping on orders of $35 or more at Christianbook.com.
Enter promotional code 251537WM at checkout. Expires December 24th, 2008.

FREE Super Saver Shipping at Amazon.com applies to orders of $25 or more of qualifying merchandise, excluding gift-wrap charges and taxes, and requires use of the Super Saver Shipping option during checkout. Items ordered with the Super Saver Shipping option may take an additional 3 to 5 days to arrive.

$5 off $50 & Free Shipping Coupon - Toys - at Target.com
Just click & you'll receive $5 off your online order of select toys over $50 plus receive free shipping.

Code: 607885
Discount: 0.99 shipping any order at Justmysize.com

You can usually find codes for wherever your want to shop too. Google the name of the site and "coupon codes" or "promotional codes" or "free shipping codes".

Some good sites for coupon codes are:
Fat Wallet
Coupon Cabin
Retail Me Not

What tips can you share for getting deals online?

Monday, December 8, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - December 8


For Today... December 8, 2008

Outside my Window... That white stuff. We are under a winter storm watch - snow, then freezing rain, then more snow - possibly 6 inches. I'll believe it when I see it.

I am thinking... about when to do my errands - library, grocery store, post office - and when to have Emily make her food for the Christmas tea. Considering the winter storm watch, I better go sooner than later, eh?

From the learning rooms... After 2 hit-or-miss weeks (holiday and illness), we are getting back to full lessons for the next two weeks.

I am thankful for... my husband's handyman skills and for my dryer!

From the kitchen... an almost empty 2 liter of ginger ale. A full freezer.

I am wearing... jeans, long sleeved black shirt, long sleeved green flannel shirt buttoned over the other, black socks, white house shoes, hair pulled back in a barrette. No makeup. Evidently I never wear makeup on Mondays. lol

I am reading... Cook's Treasure by Jennifer Cooper and still listening to the audiobook of The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon (#5 in Outlander series).

I am hoping... that the germs have left our house.

I am creating... lists, lists, and more lists - lesson plans, grocery list, gift lists, Christmas card lists, recipe lists.

I am hearing... Bob doing multiplication flashcards with James. Suzy chomping on a candy necklace. The recliner chair squeaking. The furnace blowing. (THANK GOD!)

Around the house... My office has been removed and put away for the holiday. We have not done any decorating yet, but we will this week!

One of my favorite things... a hot shower. Blissful!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
Chess Club for my boys, Christmas tea for me and the girls, church on Wednesday night, homeschool group Christmas party, Friday sleepovers for 3 of the kids

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Our NaNoWriMo incentive chart (early in November)

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Weekly Review - Weeks 13 and 14

These last two weeks have been light on the academics and heavy on the recovery.

I won't bother to list the academics we've done - it's mostly been math and writing, and there hasn't been a ton of it. We will hopefully get back to it full force tomorrow. That will depend on how everyone is feeling. I need to make out some lesson plans. I think I'll do two weeks' worth. David especially liked having the whole month's plan done ahead.

The Thanksgiving holiday came late in Week 13 and the family time was wonderful! We were gone for four days. We did some other socializing in Week 13 as well.

One or another of us has been sick for what seems like months, but has really only been about a week. We missed several activities due to it - Art class being one that comes to mind right now. The only thing we did outside of the home during Week 14 was Wednesday night church and grocery shopping (Suzy went with me). Oh yeah, and the girls went to their Keepers at Home meeting - they got a ride with a friend.

If one child is sick, it does interfere with our academics for all, since we do a number of subjects together. When I am sick, I don't have a sub to call. Even though Bob is here most of the time, he doesn't usually take on the whole routine - it's overwhelming to him. So, everything tends to fall apart when I am sick. This is why we do our lessons most days, even if the school down the street is off for a snow day or teacher in-service, or whatever. It frees us up to take a day off when we need one. Or four. lol

I wonder what other home educating families do when sickness intrudes into your routine? What if one child is sick? Everyone? Mom only? How does it affect your academics?

I need to do some lesson plans today, but right now, I need to go relax. I can only do a few minutes at a time on the computer.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Friday Fill-in #101

And...here we go!

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1. Snow IS COLD AND I DON'T REALLY LIKE COLD.
(I won't write what FIRST came to mind. lol It's MUCH less polite.)

2. I'm looking forward to WATCHING THE MOVIE SENSE & SENSIBILITY.

3. WORD TWIST is the best FACEBOOK APP ever!
(Challenge me to a game! I dare you!)

4. One of my favorite old tv shows is MACGYVER.

5. I'm done with NANOWRIMO. (At least for this year!)

6. The most enjoyable thing around the holidays is WATCHING THE KIDS ENJOY EVERYTHING.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to SPENDING TIME WITH FRIENDS, tomorrow my plans include SPENDING TIME WITH FRIENDS and Sunday, I want to STAY HOME!

Thursday, December 4, 2008

NaNo YWP - Good/Gross Books

One of the things we did for the NaNo Young Writer's Program was to brainstorm lists of things good and dull books might have. You may well guess that my boys and my girls have very different ideas of what makes a "good" book. So, with no further ado, I present the lists.

Great books might have:
  1. Guns
  2. Princesses
  3. Happy Endings
  4. Aliens
  5. Sharks eating people
  6. War
  7. Seagulls talking
  8. Obedience
  9. Page numbers
  10. Magic Spells
  11. Coloring
  12. People
  13. Action
  14. Heroes
  15. Space
  16. Vampires

Gross Books Might have:
  1. Boring parts, like love
  2. Bad wars
  3. Killing
  4. Evil pumpkins
  5. Evil monkeys
  6. Gypsies
  7. Dull storylines
  8. Whiny characters
  9. Boring titles
  10. Boring covers
  11. No adventure
  12. No problems

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

NaNoWriMo Badges

I earned ten NaNoWriMo badges this year. Here they are.







The X'd out one I didn't earn. It was for writing a random ending. Since I am working towards publication, that would be counterproductive, so I didn't even consider it.

I did legitimately earn the rest of them. :-) Especially the caffeine one.

The first aid badge was awarded to me by my friend Jennifer for being a support to her during her first NaNoWriMo.

Monday, December 1, 2008

NaNoWriMo Stats

NaNoWriMo stats

119,301 authors registered this year and wrote 1,519,501,005 words. (Yes, that's 1.5 BILLION words!)

75,025 of those words were MINE!

Of everyone registered, 21,683 of us won. That's an 18.2% win rate. That's the highest rate since 2001.

(To win NaNo, you just have to write a 50,000 word novel. There are no judges, per se.)

Simple Woman Daybook - December 1


For Today... December 1, 2008

Outside my Window... SNOW! A thick covering of snow on the ground, lots of snow covering the branches of the trees - looks like a picture book!

I am thinking... about CHRISTMAS!

From the learning rooms... No lessons today. We will be planning out our Christmas "lessons" and activities.

I am thankful for... getting home safely in a winter storm. Also for my son James who is NINE YEARS OLD today!

From the kitchen... leftover birthday cake, since we celebrated yesterday with family. Also an empty cooler and some dishes to do.

I am wearing... my PJ's still. White t-shirt, navy lounge pants, red slippers, burgundy fleece robe. Hair twisted into a clip. I did wash my face! lol

I am reading... (still listening to) the audiobook of The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon (#5 in Outlander series). I am also slowly reading Sense & Sensibility. I will be reading a LOT more this month!

I am hoping... to find a good used van or truck very soon!

I am creating... a Christmas letter so I can get the Christmas cards out this week.

I am hearing... screeching from the kids upstairs. Not a happy sound. Also Christmas music on Pandora. Right now it's Josh Groban's Believe from The Polar Express. That's a lovely song and a beautiful movie too. And now that I'm done uploading photos and about done with this post, it's playing Jon Bon Jovi's Please Come for Christmas. LOVE IT!

Around the house... Clean laundry to be folded and put away. (We washed all our laundry at my parents' house. Thanks, mom!) Also suitcases and other traveling paraphenalia to unpack and put away.

One of my favorite things... listening to Christmas music in DECEMBER! What are some of your favorite songs?

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
A Christmas party tonight for my support group tonight, tomorrow my girls have Keepers at Home, Wednesday is art class & Pioneer Club & Financial Peace class, I may go out Friday night, Saturday my friend is having a video gaming/socializing party that we are all going to. David has a youth activity all night Friday, but I don't think he is going.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
I took James (left) and his cousin to the pet store to view all the exotic pets. Caleb's family has a fish tank so he chose a fish to put in it and James chose one to put in their tank too. How's that for keeping Wagner pets alive? lol

Friday Fill-in #100

Well, I didn't do this Friday, but here it is for you anyway. I changed the last one to make it fit the timing.

fridayfillin.gif

1. My stomach ISN'T QUITE RIGHT.
2. STUFFING is what I ate the most of on Thursday.
3. The yard IS COVERED IN SNOW, LOTS OF SNOW.
4. WRITING (OR READING) is where I'd rather be at any given time.
5. The smell of VICK'S VAPORUB reminds me of BEING SICK WHEN I WAS A KID.
6. SLEEP is what I need right now!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to SLEEPING, tomorrow my plans include UNPACKING and Sunday this week, I want to READ SENSE & SENSIBILITY!

Sunday, November 30, 2008

75,025 WORDS

If you've been reading here, you probably realized I am writing a novel this month for NaNoWriMo.

It's the last day of November and I have written 75,025 words!

I have FINISHED my novel.

Well, it needs editing. It needs polishing. It needs research. Hey, it even needs a title!
But the story is there. It is done!

I feel like Frodo on Mount Doom. "It's over! It's done."

And luckily for all of you? No more word count posts here! lol

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Thanksgiving Meme

Amy posted this Thanksgiving meme, so I thought I'd give it a try!

1. Which do you like better: Cooking at your house, or going elsewhere?
Going elsewhere!

2. Do you buy a fresh or frozen bird?
I don't make turkey much for our family - doesn't agree with my husband's system. But I have never ever bought a fresh turkey. I usually make ham if I cook for Thanksgiving myself.

3. What kind of stuffing?
If I make it, it's from a box. I am no gourmet cook. But I ADORE stuffing! No nuts or onions in it, please. And for heaven's sake, no CELERY - nothing crunchy should be in stuffing!

4. Sweet potato or pumpkin pie?
My sister-in-law Michelle makes a delicious sweet potato casserole. YUMMMMM! I love pumpkin pie too!

5. Do you believe that turkey leftovers are a curse, or the point of the whole thing?
I don't mind leftovers at all. Especially ham!

6. Which side dish would provoke a riot if you left it off the menu?
Stuffing!

7. Do you save the carcass to make soup or stock?
Nope, I do not do that. Ever.

8. What do you wish you had that would make preparing Thanksgiving dinner easier?
A different kitchen?? lol

9. Do you get up at the crack of dawn to have dinner ready in the early afternoon, or do you eat at your normal dinner hour?
We ate at noon today, but it was not at my house, nor did I cook anything more than pie. If I were cooking, we would likely eat later on. Have I ever mentioned that I am not a morning person?

10. If you go to somebody else's house, what's your favorite dish to bring?
Rolls? LOL

I don't mind bringing a pie or anything really. I just want someone to TELL ME what to bring.

11. Does your usual mix of guests result in drama, or is it a group you're happy to see?
We eat with my family every other year and the opposite year we usually stay home. I love either one.

12. What's your absolute favorite thing on the menu?
The best thing I ate today was probably the sweet potato casserole! I love good mashed potatoes and stuffing too!

13. What are you thankful for this year?
That I am not working right now
That all of us are healthy!
That God loves us!
That my family is doing well!
That I have many friends!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Free MP3's!

Download some free MP3 files at Amazon.com.

There are over 500 free MP3's there. Something for everyone, I am certain and maybe you'll find something new to like!

I got "Night Enchanted" by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and some classical music.

Go check it out!

Monday, November 24, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - November 24

Just a note that I posted my weekly review, but I put it UNDER the daybook post, so it falls before this week begins. So, page down for that one.


For Today... November 24, 2008

Outside my Window... It's snowing quite heavily! Big fluffy flakes falling slowly. The road is covered and there are a few tire tracks.

I am thinking... about how I am going to fit writing in. About the weather and will it affect any of our plans this week. About a play date my son is going on today. About my plot problem in my novel.

From the learning rooms... Our bunny died in the night. I guess we're just not destined to be a pet family.

I am thankful for... Collision insurance! My car was totalled on Tuesday. (It was parked at the time. No one was hurt.)

From the kitchen... we picked up our Angel Food order on Saturday, so the pantry and freezer are filled! I am not sure what I'll make, but there are lots of choices!

I am wearing... Jeans - my favorite beat up pair, long sleeved red t-shirt with the Mackinac Bridge on it, white socks, white house shoes, hair combed but nothing else, no makeup

I am reading... (still listening to) the audiobook of The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon (#5 in Outlander series). I will soon finish No Plot? No Problem by Chris Baty (NaNoWriMo founder). I haven't read the Bible for personal devotions in a couple weeks, although I am reading it to the kids, so I need to get back to that. I am also slowly reading Sense & Sensibility.

I am hoping... that we get a good amount from our insurance for our totalled car. Also that we can find a good used gas dryer and a good used vacuum.

I am creating... a novel! I am at 60,004 words! Wanna join me? NANOWRIMO It's not too late!

I am hearing... James grunting as he makes something from clay. Discussion about the clay. A siren in the distance. The furnace running. (Another thanks!)

Around the house... Clothes are hanging all over the house to dry since the dryer is not usable.

One of my favorite things... My Flip video camera! It's cute and easy to use. (Even Suzy can do it!) It takes pretty good video. It's affordable.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
Playdate for James today, spending time with friends tomorrow, making pies for Thanksgiving, driving across the state to spend a few days with family

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Here I am in my makeshift office. As I told you - ugly but effective. It's just two pieces of paneling propped up around my computer. With that and my noise-canceling headphones though, I can be in my own little writing world. You can see the insulated curtain Bob put up for me to block the draft from that window. Also my LOTR calendar from 2005 that I just keep turning the pages on since I like the pictures.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Weekly Review - Twelfth Week

Bible
  • We read Acts 22-24, continuing with our study of Paul.
  • We sang our November songs - Trust and Obey and Jesus is Alive.
  • We had Family Prayer several days.
Math
  • David FINISHED Lesson 30 (rational & irrational numbers) in Math-U-See Pre-Algebra which means he has COMPLETED this book!!!! YAY David! He will start Algebra I in December.
  • Emily finished Lesson 24 (double digit multiplication with regrouping) in Gamma.
  • James worked on Lesson 11 in Gamma (Multiply). and took the test.
  • Suzy worked on Lesson 12 in Alpha (addition doubles) and took the test.
Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • Literature study is suspended for the month.
  • All the children did silent reading every day (their choice of books).
  • We finished The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler today. What a great read-aloud!
Language Arts - Writing
  • Each child worked on writing their novels. Word counts are as follows:
  • David - estimated at 6250 (has written 11 pages I have not counted yet) (Goal is 8000)
  • Emily - 3640 ((REACHED HALFWAY MARK! Her goal is 7000)
  • James - 916 and 2 illustrations (goal 3000)
  • Suzy - 403 and 9 illustrations (Goal is 600)
  • Mom - 60004 (goal 75,000)
Language Arts - Other
  • Suspended for November.
Science
  • David is done with Module 4 except for the test, which he will do this week.
  • Emily, James and Suzanne made their bird feeders. We still need feathers.
History
  • David read Chapters 6-26 in History of Us: Book 3 (by Joy Hakim). The main topic was the Revolutionary War.
  • David is also learning the Preamble to the Constitution (which means the others are hearing it).
  • The younger children did not do History.
Other activities
  • Girls had their Keepers at Home meeting.
  • Co-op on Friday.
  • Pioneer Club on Wednesday night for James and Suzy. David runs the computers there.
  • Saturday we visited friends all day. SOCIALIZATION! :-)

Friday, November 21, 2008

Friday Fill-In #99




1. The last band I saw live was __a gospel quartet at my church___.
2. What I look forward to most on Thanksgiving is __fun times with family__.
3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is __not even started__.
4. Thoughts of __writing____ fill my head.
5. I wish I could wear __heels without my feet hurting_.
6. Bagpipes __are from Scotland___.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _writing_, tomorrow my plans include __spending time with friends___ and Sunday, I want to _WRITE__!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Products I Like

My friend Michele posted four of her favorite products on her NEW BLOG - Smile, Wink, Nod!

She challenged her readers to do the same. Since I am up for just about anything that allows procrastination from writing, I jumped right on the challenge.

So, here are a few of mine. My tastes are a lot simpler than hers, lol.

First off, we have Ultrabrite toothpaste with extra whitening power! No, it's not like having your teeth bleached, but I can tell the difference when I use some other toothpaste. It's also inexpensive - under a dollar at Walmart.

My favorite hand lotion EVER is Avon's Intensive Moisture Therapy. When it goes on sale, I stock up, usually getting it for $2 a tube. I have this lotion in three rooms of my house. I also sometimes buy the lipbalm of the same kind, but I like any kind of lip balm and must have it with me.

Drinking coffee has become an integral part of our day and it's best with flavored, sweetened, liquid creamer. This is the jumbo size of International Delight French Vanilla, which is cheaper ounce for ounce at Walmart than even the Walmart brand of liquid creamer. (That Great Value kind IS very good too.) I'm not picky about brand or flavor, although there are some I like better (anything chocolate) than others (cinnamon - blech!).

(Ooh, just did a google search and here's some info on how to make your own flavored creamers. Gonna try that out! Make Your Own Flavored Liquid Coffee Creamer for a fraction of the cost. View more »)

I use eye drops daily. All those late nights you know. I don't buy the name brand, but the store brand - Walmart again!

Last but not least is Spray 'n Wash Stain Stick. I find this is great for lots of stains - grease, grass, dirt, and more! What I like is that you can treat your stains when you toss the item in the laundry, instead of having to remember to treat them right before washing. That wouldn't happen here! The Stain Stick is about $3 and worth every penny! I've tried the store brand - it doesn't work!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

NaNoWriMo Parody Songs

Oh, here is another way for me to procrastinate. No, I didn't write any of these parodies, but I did skim through this thread on the NaNo Forums. Some very funny stuff, at least if you are NaNo'ing. My husband just laughed and walked away when I tried to sing to him.

NaNoWriMo Theme Song

To the tune of "The Flintstones"
by donne.r

NaNo,
NaNo/WriMo,
It's the time to be a word machine.
One month
For a novel,
It's the greatest thing I've ever seen!

Let's all
Gather at the coffee shop
Where we'll
Pound away on our laptops.

When you're
Doing NaNo,
You'll forget about your laundry,
And obligations,
You'll have a WriMo time!


Oh I wish I were a NaNoWriMo winner
to the tune of "I wish I were an Oscar Meyer Weiner"
by KristinYarnell

Oh I wish I were a NaNoWriMo winner
That is what I truly wish to be
Cause if I were a NaNoWriMo winner
Fifty thousands words would come to me.


I am the very model of a NaNoWriMo Novelist
To the theme of "I am the very model of a modern Major-General" from the Pirates of Penzance - apologies to Gilbert and Sullivan
by skneal

I am the very model of a NaNoWriMo Novelist
I've got a plot, but not a lot; oh, characters, that's what I missed!
I know the goal is volume, and I store plot points within a list
From pirate sacking ninjas to cliched love triangle plot twists.
I'm very well acquainted too with fight scenes, armed or with bare fists
I've researched lots of history some real and some revisionist
but if I run into a case where I just haven't any clue
I'll make it up and write it down and just mindlessly continue

I'm very good at padding, I can even work a dare or two
I've got myself a rival but I'm still out looking for a muse
The writing may not be coherent but I'm not one to get pissed
I am the very model of a NaNoWriMo Novelist

I check the forums hourly and post on "reaching fifty-k"
for those who are desparing I post hugs and cheers 'most every day
I go to write-ins now and then, to get some of my writing done
When December rolls around it's time for TGIO party fun
On weekends I procrastinate a bit until I comprehend
that at the rate I'm going I just won't quite make it to the end.
I end up questioning myself for signing up initially
but the task is so absurd that I can just laugh maniacally

I never try and edit, I avoid that task religiously
Unless the plot I have runs out a couple thousand words early
In short I have to forget about my inner perfectionist
I am the very model of a NaNoWriMo Novelist

It's gotten to the point where I feel pain when I use contractions
It just adds a single word, but who knows how long the story runs?
Time grows short, I cannot rest I've still got many words to write
My characters are misbehaving and they're putting up a fight
They think they can just mill around and do whatever they well please
But we'll see who ends up laughing when I kill them off with ease
That's not the best solution but I've no time to think strategies
I will just keep on typing as the last of my sanity flees

My family is worried since I haven't seen them in a week
Oh no! my coffee has run out! more stimulants I've got to seek
so long as I am able, that's to say that I can feel my wrists
I am the very model of a NaNoWriMo Novelist

Another one....
To the tune of "My Bologna Has A First Name"
also by KristinYarnell


Oh, my novel has a first page
And it is not so bad
And my novel has a second page,
But there it starts to drag

Oh, I love to write it every day and if you ask me why I'll say...

'Cause NaNoWriMo has the ways
To write my book in thirty days

If you want to read lots more of these parodies, go read this thread. Some are good,. some aren't, and some of the songs I don't know so it's hard to tell.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - November 17


For Today... November 17, 2008

Outside my Window... White stuff all over the ground and trees. I think it's called.... snow??

I am thinking... that I hate winter. And that I should get some coffee. And get dressed. Man, I am moving slow today. Only 5 hours of sleep.

From the learning rooms... The kids are working on their novels! Also, we now have a replacement newt.

I am thankful for... central heating!

From the kitchen... Bob made molasses cookies Sunday night. Also, there's COFFEE out there....... I need some.....

I am wearing... my PJ's still - grey long-sleeved top, navy lounge pants, burgundy fleece robe, and my black slippers. No socks - lost them somewhere along the way.

I am reading... (listening to) the audiobook of The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon (#5 in Outlander series). I have read the Week 3 installment of No Plot? No Problem by Chris Baty (NaNoWriMo founder). Still reading Psalms in The Message (or maybe I should say "not reading"). I may reread Northanger Abbey this week.

I am hoping... to get all caught up with our Financial Peace (Dave Ramsey) assignments and to-do list this week.

I am creating... a novel! I am at 48,356 words! Wanna join me? NANOWRIMO It's not too late!

I am hearing... Suzy talking to Emily "Remember last winter? We made that humongous head in the side-yard!" (Yes, she said head! lol)

Around the house... I framed the kids' portraits in 2 floating frame thingies. Bob took the boys a while ago to go pick up a loft bed from a freecycler, so that will be around the house later this morning.

One of my favorite things... making charts and lists. I'd be pretty organized if I followed all my systems!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
BUSY week. IEW writing meeting for me Monday night. Tuesday night the girls have Keepers at Home club. Wednesday night is church activities. Thursday at midnight I am going with friends to see Twilight. And then we have co-op on Friday. Saturday 3 of the kids are going to a road rally our homeschool group is doing. Aiming for 2500 words of writing each day, plus working with the kids to get their books close to the end.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
To understand it, go here.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Weekly Review - Eleventh Week

Bible
  • We read Romans 15-16 and Acts 21-22, continuing with our study of Paul. We read about four pages from Making Brothers and Sister Best Friends.
  • We sang our November songs - Trust and Obey and Jesus is Alive.
  • We had Family Prayer each day.
Math
  • David worked on Lesson 30 (rational & irrational numbers) in Math-U-See Pre-Algebra. He will finish this book next week!
  • Emily began Lesson 24 (double digit multiplication with regrouping) in Gamma.
  • James finished Lesson 10 in Gamma (Multiply by 9). and took the test.
  • Suzy finished Lesson 11 in Alpha (shapes and skip counting x2) and took the test.
Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • Literature study is suspended for the month.
  • All the children did silent reading every day (their choice of books).
  • We are continuing with The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. We should finish it next week.
Language Arts - Writing
  • Each child worked on writing their novels. Word counts are as follows:
  • David - 4048 (REACHED HALFWAY MARK! Goal is 8000)
  • Emily - 1848 but I think she's written more that I haven't counted. (Her goal is 7000)
  • James - 746 and 2 illustrations (I'm going to spend a lot of time with James this coming week. He needs more help than I've been giving him in order to achieve his goal of 3000.)
  • Suzy - 306 and 4 illustrations (reached HALFWAY MARK! Goal is 600)
  • Mom - my word count is at 39509 and I am more than halfway to my goal of 75,000!
Language Arts - Other
  • Suspended for November.
Science
  • David worked on Module 4. He did 3 experiments and all of the reading, as well as completing the study guide. He has one experiment which we need to obtain test tubes for. Then all that is left is the test.
  • Emily, James and Suzanne had the week off from Science. We need to find some feathers before we can go on. Pam???? Any feathers over there?
History
  • David didn't have his next history book until today, so he worked double on Science. Today he did two lessons, though - He read Chapters 1-5 and the Preface in History of Us: Book 3 (by Joy Hakim). The main topic was the French and Indian War.
  • The younger children learned about Diocletian (and the Division of the Roman Empire and persecution of Christians), Constantine I (and the reunification of the Roman Empire, the Council of Nicaea) and the Golden Age of India.
Other activities
  • No field trips, no co-op, no art class. Nice calm week for writing!
  • James and Suzy went to a free soccer training clinic that was offered nearby.
  • David and James went to Chess Club.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Writing Desk - Antiques Roadshow

I adore Antiques Roadshow. I don't watch it regularly, although now that I'm not working at night, I should start!

Check out this Regency era writing desk. There is a video - secret compartments galore! Oh my, it is LOVELY. You'd probably laugh at me if I said that the beauty of the craftsmanship on this desk made tears come to my eyes. So I won't say it. You didn't hear it here!

Here's a pic, in case you are too lazy to click over. lol But then you'll miss the video! CLICK CLICK CLICK ALREADY! (Ok, I am officially loopy tonight. Sorry!)

I linked to Antiques Roadshow from this historical writers' blog - History Hoydens. Thanks, Janet!

If anyone wants to buy me a present, this desk would do QUITE nicely! A little Christmas-y hint.... lol

Monday, November 10, 2008

Simple Woman Daybook - November 10


For Today... November 10, 2008

Outside my Window... Sunshine! Yellow and orange leaves scattered, although not too many on our lawn. I hear the garbage truck coming. Oh, and now I see the village's dump truck and loader. They come around and scoop up the leaves that people rake to the road. Right now they're scooping the neighbor's leaves.

I am thinking... that I should frame the kids' new fall portraits. Do I have frames?

From the learning rooms... The kids are working on their novels! David needs test tubes for Science and his next history book has not yet arrived from the library. What to do? What to do?

I am thankful for... healthy kids and my own health! and for the free gift of salvation!

From the kitchen... Yesterday I made spice cake bars and funfetti cupcakes - both frosted - for last night's church dinner. Most of them were still left afterwards so we have our sweets for the week!

I am wearing... Rose pink t-shirt with saying, Jeans, white socks, black fleece-lined slippers, grey zipper hoodie. Hair brushed and down, no makeup. This is as good as it is gonna get today. Well, maybe I'll brush my teeth. :-)

I am reading... Jane Austen for Dummies and I am enjoying it GREATLY! I started listening to the audiobook of The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon (#5 in Outlander series). I LOVE how the narrator reads all the accents. I have read the Week 2 installment of No Plot? No Problem by Chris Baty (NaNoWriMo founder). Still reading Psalms in The Message. I should read the last few pages of Evanovich's How I Write since it is due at the library tomorrow.

I am hoping... for a miracle!

I am creating... a novel! Wanna join me? NANOWRIMO My characters are doing things I didn't expect again! It's especially disconcerting this year, but I can't explain why just yet.

I am hearing... Mr. Demme (Math-U-See) explaining David's last Pre-Algebra lesson on DVD. (Irrational numbers) Better him than me! lol

Around the house... The kitchen organization is giving me fits. I may find myself re-organizing it one day this week, especially if writer's block hits!

One of my favorite things... Blue Cars - I love blue cars of a certain shade. I saw a few today and they always make me smile. They have to be a certain deep shade of metallic blue.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
James has Chess Club. We have church Wednesday night. Other than that, it's just lessons as usual and WRITING. Hopefully I can attend a Write-In on Saturday.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Oh look! A blue car, just the color I like! What a coincidence! LOL
This is not a car I own - just found it in a google image search. Isn't it lovely?

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Five Thousand

I haven't posted a lot about my personal NaNoWriMo progress here, but I thought I'd at least give you all this much.

I WROTE FIVE THOUSAND WORDS! JUST TODAY!

Yes, today I did write 5000 words! I am now at 24,426 total word count. I am amazed since last year I was nowhere near this until around November 18-19. It does help that JENNIFER is writing too since she has stayed consistently ahead of me in word count from Day 1. LOL It's like a carrot being held in front of me. Not that I'm competitive or anything.

Oh yeah, I earned my 5K-in-a-day badge today. (The official name is The Rally Badge and you can get it for writing 5K in a day or by overcoming a 10K deficit.)

I have written at least 2500 words every day. If I can keep it up, I'll have no trouble making 75K by the end of the month. So we shall see - can I keep it up? Do I have that much story in me?

That's actually my second badge. I earned the first one before I even started. It's the NaNoSocializing badge. There are several ways to earn it, but I earned mine by dragging a friend into NaNoWriMo with me. (waves at Jennifer)

Friday, November 7, 2008

Weekly Review - Tenth Week

Bible
  • We read Romans 9-14. We didn't do anything from Making Brothers and Sister Best Friends (or last week). We only did Bible Mon-Wed, although I would like to finish Romans on Saturday.
  • I introduced two new songs - our November hymn is Trust and Obey and our praise chorus is Jesus is Alive.
Math
  • David finished Lesson 29 (measurement) in Math-U-See Pre-Algebra and took the test.
  • Emily finished Lesson 23 in Gamma and took the test.
  • James finished Lesson 9 and started Lesson 10 in Gamma (Multiply by 9).
  • Suzy finished Lesson 10 and started Lesson 11 in Alpha (shapes and skip counting x2).

Language Arts - Literature and Reading
  • Literature study is suspended for the month.
  • All the children did silent reading every day (their choice of books).
  • We are continuing with The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. The kids LOVE it!
Language Arts - Writing
  • Each child began writing their novels. Word counts are as follows:
  • David - 1389
  • Emily - I've typed almost 800 (2 pages) and have 3 pages more to type, so I think she's at about 2000.
  • James - 300 and 2 illustrations
  • Suzy - 165 and 4 illustrations
Language Arts - Other
  • Suspended for November.
Science
  • David worked on Module 4.
  • Emily, James and Suzanne had the week off from Science.
History
  • David finished History of US Book 2 and did the mapwork.
  • The younger children learned about The Apostles' Creed and about The Second Jewish Revolt.
Other activities
  • We had co-op on Friday.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Meme

Saw this on Penny's blog and thought I'd give it a try. I'm sure I've done this one at some point, but I'm always up for doing a good meme.

10 Years Ago...

1. I was not pregnant.
2. I was the mother of 2 children.
3. I was a La Leche League Leader.
4. My husband had an actual full time job.
5. I couldn't wait to homeschool!

5 Things on today's "to-do" list
1. Write 2500 words (or more).
2. Pay a couple bills and James' soccer training registration
3. Do a couple loads of laundry.
4. Help Emily edit her story for her co-op writing class.
5. Push the kids through their lessons and chores and on to their writing!

5 Snacks I enjoy
1. Popcorn
2. Chocolate
3. Fritos (esp Chili Cheese) - but I hate myself after. lol
4. Fruit
5. Chex mix

5 Things I would do if I were a millionaire
1. Become debt-free!
2. Invest.
3. Buy a really nice laptop!
4. Buy some land and a country house.
5. Vacation!

5 Places I have lived (most recent first)
1. Dryden, Michigan
2. Romeo, Michigan
3. Washington, Michigan
4. Sterling Heights, Michigan
5. Spring Arbor, Michigan

5 Jobs that I have had / or still have (most recent first)
1. Writer
2. Machine Operator in a plastic injection molding factory
3. Assistant Teacher in a Christian school
4. Substitute teacher in several schools around here
5. Enrichment Spanish teacher in two separate school districts