Back to the Books!

We started our new school year today and it was AWESOME! Everyone is so excited to be learning new things again.

I can tell that our history period is going to be a huge hit. We are covering American History, beginning at about 1800. Today we started a book about Daniel Boone together and Caleb is reading on his own about Davy Crockett. Tonight we will begin Little House in the Big Woods as our read-aloud.

Caleb is doing Apologia Science Zoology 1 and already "made me" read more than I had scheduled. He is a HUGE lover of science.

Allie will be reading several books this term, but she really loved the first couple of chapters in Ruth Beechick's Adam and His Kin . She is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her Spanish program. We chose The Easy Spanish. It looks like great fun and is CM friendly!

We were finished with our studies by noon and now the day is ours to enjoy as we wish (okay, the kids will *enjoy* and I will do laundry).


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Blog Makeover

I am feeling very computer savvy this evening. I learned how to make my blog 3 columns. *YIPPEE* I have wanted to do this for a while now, but was always afraid I would mess everything up. I won't tell you how long it took me, or how many tweaks were required, just know it was a LONG TIME! I was rewarded for my efforts when I surfed over to Candace's blog, His Mercy is New. While there, I discovered a great source for fabulous backgrounds. Thanks Aqua Poppy for making these available! Now, go get one of these beauties for yourself!

Handy Software

I found a software program that I am very excited to share. Maybe you've heard of it. It's called Startwrite. This program allows you to create your own handwriting practice sheets, copywork, etc. in your choice of popular handwriting fonts. I chose this program because it has the italic font that I am teaching my kids. I like that you can adjust the font size, and even make the letters a traceable light gray for the younger ones. With my youngest just learning to write, I feel that the $39.95 price tag is a real value. You can download a free trial at the website.

So sweet

I feel like a new mom. I can't stop taking pictures of this little guy. He is so peaceful when he is sleeping....awake is another story....hide your toes!


Milo sleeping

YIKES!

I am not a fan of snakes, but I like this one more than most. Poor unfortunate fella had a run in with the hay mower.


Caleb and the bull snake

Sad Goodbye

Our beloved cat, Molly, passed away this evening after having a stroke earlier in the week. She was my faithful furry companion for 15 years. We will miss her.

A week of FAITH and FUN!

Vacation Bible School has come to an end for another year. We had a super week! Here's a peek.

My friend Annette and me in the raft at "Friendship Falls".


Ashlyn and her friend in the raft.


Allie and her friend taking the little one for a ride in the "train".


Caleb and friends on the "Slip and Slide".


Ashlyn and friends having snack at the cross.

Busy Days

The first part of June is hectic, so my posting will be sparse for a week or two.

We started VBS at our church today and I am the Bible Story teacher, so everyday I have the privilege of sharing God's word with over 100 kids. It is awesome!

For my husband it is hay season. In addition to his day job, he puts up about 30 acres of hay. This means a lot of sun up to sun down days. It also means that my "relief pitcher", so to speak, is unavailable. The days can seem extra long without Dad around. However, this spring we did buy a used round baler which will make the work a little faster and easier than past years. Here is a picture of Allan in the field. It is dusty work.




Our kitten, Milo, has made himself at home. Here he is perusing the bookshelf. I knew I liked this cat!