tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53152717133137622202024-03-05T15:33:27.868-08:00The Attached Mamaour adventures learning and livingUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-12905532508940142282016-06-06T10:20:00.000-07:002016-06-06T07:15:02.600-07:002015-2016 Read Aloud List<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In the years past, I have always planned out my read aloud list for the year. I am a planner. It is a sickness I cannot control. :) I typically lay out 36 weeks of read alouds that correspond to our history or science studies---and sprinkle in some "for fun" books from the Sonlight literature lists. However, in all of the years,I have homeschooled, I have <u>NEVER</u> stuck with my plan. Never. I always add in books and skip books. I am always in some sort of flux of running "ahead" or falling "behind" my arbitrary schedule. I started to realize that all of my planning does nothing but make me feel guilty when I fall short of the plan.<br />
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This year, I have decided to be more laid back when it comes to reading aloud. It's all part of my new 'schole' mindset. I have decided to <u>purposely</u> try to "teach from a state of rest". (SERIOUSLY. Go read that book. It is life changing.) For some people, rest comes naturally. I am not that person.<br />
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SO---Instead of planning and scheduling everything, my plan is to just find a good book...and read it! I still have a list of books that I want to read--but I will no longer suffer from the guilt of being "behind" or "ahead".<br />
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For that reason, I will be keeping a running list of the books we have read together as a family on this page. I will be updating it often as we finish a book.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Fiction </h2>
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<i>At the Beginning of the year, we fell into sort of a "Ramona Quimby rabbit hole". My children love Ramona's character. As an adult, I find that Beverly Cleary is a genius when it comes to capturing the heart of a child<b> </b>at all of these various ages. </i><i><i>Reading these books is like growing up all over again. </i>I am not sure how she can remember so accurately the way children think or feel about the world at all of these different ages, but she does a wonderful job. As a mother, I found that these books helped me to remember what it can feel like to be a child. It has helped me be more understanding and look for the good intentions in some of the seemingly crazy things my kids do! (Yes, my kids sometimes DO act like Ramona!) </i></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/038070918X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=038070918X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=TYRXYOEAJ6244WJ5">Beezus and Ramona</a> by Beverly Cleary</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/038070918X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=038070918X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=RPBSDYOZEMJZC4HK"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=038070918X&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=038070918X" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709546/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709546&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=VYNV2TBACDBLPCRM">Ramona the Pest</a> by Beverly Cleary</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709546/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709546&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=DQDRRBJTAHC2HTOF"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0380709546&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0380709546" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709597/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709597&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=K4BQTPUXHQH63644">Ramona the Brave</a> by Beverly Cleary</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709597/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709597&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=K4BQTPUXHQH63644"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0380709597&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0380709597" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709163/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709163&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=L7T6UOFCBAPSVNVN">Ramona and her Father</a> by Beverly Cleary</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0380709163/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0380709163&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=L7T6UOFCBAPSVNVN"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0380709163&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0380709163" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<i>Next, we moved on to the Little House series. My third-grade teacher read these aloud to me, and I loved them. I have been saving them to read to the kids. </i></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060581808/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0060581808&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=4SEQ52BQG2BEVMFZ">Little House in the Big Woods</a> by Laura Ingalls Wilder</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060581808/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0060581808&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=QYQDL7BE2RR5UQKI" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0060581808&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0060581808" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1VDOCrD">Little House on the Prairie </a>by Laura Ingalls Wilder</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Little-House-Prairie-No/dp/0064400026/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465062662&sr=1-1&keywords=Little+House+No+3&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=1f4965977d3fdd63de707173f5e21696" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0064400026&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0064400026" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1UBBy3y">On The Banks of Plum Creek</a> by Laura Ingalls Wilder</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Banks-Plum-Creek-Little-House/dp/0064400042/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&dpID=51GyqGN-L5L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL320_SR216%2C320_&refRID=191TTZCRGK1TEYZJS75V&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=c745a5e59ce4af1bf1cfbf366940b42f" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0064400042&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0064400042" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren (Sophie Only)</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Longstocking-Turtleback-School-Library-Binding/dp/0881037761/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465063809&sr=1-1&keywords=Pippi+Longstocking+Written+by%3A+Astrid+Lindgren&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=47e1fb51d62a47c7da5ed690059f81da" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0881037761&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0881037761" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1RTQUvW">The One and Only Ivan</a> by Katherine Applegate</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Only-Ivan-Katherine-Applegate/dp/0061992275/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465064240&sr=1-1&keywords=The+One+and+Only+Ivan&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=05a1f069e6ca629770cdc514b67354ba" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0061992275&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0061992275" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Fable and Myth</h2>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1UBCapP">D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths</a> by Ingri d'Aulaire and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire (Only part of this book)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/DAulaires-Greek-Myths-Ingri-dAulaire/dp/0440406943/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465063562&sr=1-1&keywords=d%27aulaires+book+of+greek+myths&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=304f82f72d09ca6314657f975b74427e" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0440406943&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0440406943" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1t8JnWd">Jataka Tales</a> (Part of English Lessons Through Litterature) (Only part of this book)</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Jataka-Tales-Extended-Annotated-ebook/dp/B009GLVP58/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&keywords=Jataka%20tales&qid=1465064511&ref_=sr_1_4&sr=8-4&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=04e31fd2ae6ec192625e46f07aa7ecc0" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B009GLVP58&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=B009GLVP58" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1VDSARd">Aesop Fables</a> (Part of English Lessons Through Litterature) (Only part of this book)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Aesops-Fables-Aesop/dp/1505852552/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465064602&sr=8-6&keywords=aesop+fables&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=b30abf24c0e85485ca239177e54d6a60" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1505852552&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1505852552" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Shakespeare Retellings</h2>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402700040/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402700040&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=4IYAMMJ7VHAURSOW"> The Young Reader's Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet</a> by Adam McKeown</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402700040/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402700040&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=4IYAMMJ7VHAURSOW"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1402700040&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402700040" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402700032/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402700032&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=5AHGIBVMUNU4YNAQ">The Young Reader's Shakespeare</a>: Hamlet by Adam McKeown</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402700032/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402700032&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=EBO2QCIGNVE3B6ZO" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1402700032&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402700032" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1ssRhJd">Julius Caesar</a> by Adam McKeown</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Young-Readers-Shakespeare-Julius-Caesar/dp/1402735790/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465064081&sr=1-2&keywords=young+readers+julius+caesar&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=596fb23022cb93975e12f94e41f7ca51" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1402735790&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1402735790" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Biography</h2>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0964380331/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0964380331&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=62QD7BYLFFD5W4Y4">Columbus</a> by Edgar Parin D'Aulair and Ingri D'Aulair</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0964380331/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0964380331&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=IRABMJ5WBPXXWR57"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0964380331&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0964380331" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688162940/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688162940&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=TYQYGLXXDLSZABGL">The Bard of Avon: The Story of William Shakespeare</a> by Diane Stanley<i></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688162940/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688162940&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=VTZH5TYWX4IVB4AL"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0688162940&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0688162940" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></i></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amzn.to/1VDRMeW">Cleopatra</a> by Diane Stanley</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cleopatra-Diane-Stanley/dp/0688154808/ref=as_li_ss_il?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1465064178&sr=1-1&keywords=cleopatra+diane+stanley&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=5f9192bfb365330a87d108587c961e38" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0688154808&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0688154808" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Poetry</h2>
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(Various Poems by reading a poem per day from English Lessons Through Litterature)...</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Plus, </div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1t8JtNq">Where the Sidewalk Ends</a> by Shel Silverstein</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Where-Sidewalk-Ends-Poems-Drawings/dp/0060256672/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465064696&sr=8-1&keywords=Where+the+Sidewalk+Ends&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=ce26010701aad376a9673b2d8b8d0a2c" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0060256672&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=0060256672" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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Science and History</h2>
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We finally finished <a href="http://amzn.to/1r9OHGR">Story of the World volume 1</a>. We started this book in 2013. (Blush) But it felt SO good to mark this as complete!</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Story-World-History-Classical-Earliest/dp/1933339004/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465222239&sr=8-1&keywords=story+of+the+world+volume+1&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=84f362471ba63b6e4fad447c54a32f13" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1933339004&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1933339004" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/Story-World-History-Classical-Earliest/dp/1933339004/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465222239&sr=8-1&keywords=story+of+the+world+volume+1&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=84f362471ba63b6e4fad447c54a32f13%22%20target=%22_blank%22%3E%3Cimg%20border=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1933339004&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20%22%20%3E%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1933339004%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E">Child's History of the World</a> by V.M. Hilyer (Only part of this book)</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Childs-History-World-V-Hillyer/dp/8087888545/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465222307&sr=8-1&keywords=childs+history+of+the+world&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=f4d01d3cdf08bc60a5a6eae983868584" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=8087888545&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=8087888545" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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We also finished <a href="http://amzn.to/1r9PdEC">Quark Chronicles Botany</a>. This was such a great book. We had a lot of fun reading it together this year. </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quark-Chronicles-Botany-Ernest-DeVore/dp/1502380269/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1465222352&sr=8-1&keywords=Quark+Chronicles+Botany&linkCode=li3&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=9f0c4ad04a9288c792f62e669df03c36" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1502380269&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=li3&o=1&a=1502380269" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-20501450234441743732016-06-04T09:58:00.000-07:002016-06-04T10:02:43.435-07:00Laying an Education Feast: 2015-2016 Curriculum Choices (Updated at the End of Year!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #cc0000;">UPDATED at the End of the Year! </span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Now that we have finished our school year, I thought it might be nice to go back and update this list with what we actually did. :) (The plan doesn't always mesh with reality.) I will also share some of my thoughts on these curriculum choices after using them for an entire year. Updates will be in red. </span><br />
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<b>Hi, Everyone!</b><br />
After much planning, I am finally ready to share my curriculum choices for the upcoming school year. This list may look like a lot...and it is! (I tend to put the LIBERAL in a <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/the-liberal-arts-tradition-a-philosophy-of-christian-classical-education/#.VcyWcbcu6Lo">classical liberal arts education</a>!) However, I <i>think</i> of curriculum choices as setting a huge banquet before my children. At any banquet or feast--one is not expected to consume <i>everything</i> on the table! Instead, a well laid 'educational' banquet gives us the opportunity for exposure to a wide variety of pursuits and interests. For that reason, I have titled this post, "Laying the education banquet".<br />
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I also want to clarify what the word curriculum really means. As one of my favorite authors, Sarah Mackenzie wrote, "<a href="http://simplehomeschool.net/paradigm-shift-curriculum/">Curriculum is not something you buy....Curriculum is life, and life cannot be contained within the pages of a book.</a>" (Seriously...go read <a href="http://simplehomeschool.net/paradigm-shift-curriculum/">that</a> article. It's really good. I'll wait right here.) In other words, this post is nothing more than a list of books or resources. These books are tools. They will not educate my children alone...nor are we limited to the confines of their pages.<br />
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<b>This year I will be homeschooling three lovely children: </b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b>Marcus will be 8 entering 3rd grade; </b></li>
<li><b>Sophie will be 7 entering the 2nd grade; </b></li>
<li><b>And Joseph will be 2 (majoring in cuteness and general mayhem.) </b></li>
</ul>
Even though Marcus and Sophie are 'technically' in different grades according to their age, we tend to allow both kids to work at their own pace on any given subject. In other words, we meet each child where they are at skill-wise on any given subject. So I am calling this "3rd and 2nd Grade"--but those are really just arbitrary labels. What works in my home may not work in yours. Your second grader may be further ahead or a need a slower pace.<br />
This is a LONG post filled with all of those juicy details that you homeschool-mamas love. So without further ado, I present my 2015-2016 Curriculum Choices.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iHIrXEyQaHbfndzUEYLmNVjwrD-L2qzRa7CVitb3A-C83O1O_S6s3ISYaaz9bL5OMIljU2h3MNuo_iGOAPjRn6Pgvaz4TyuRgddgzlOTq3w5rxpXzyJWgtvVI53ESjNfVaI8pTOOUM1r/s1600/IMG_0367.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iHIrXEyQaHbfndzUEYLmNVjwrD-L2qzRa7CVitb3A-C83O1O_S6s3ISYaaz9bL5OMIljU2h3MNuo_iGOAPjRn6Pgvaz4TyuRgddgzlOTq3w5rxpXzyJWgtvVI53ESjNfVaI8pTOOUM1r/s1600/IMG_0367.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Please don't think we typically do math outside in front of hydrangea bushes! Its just on the rare days we do, this mama takes a lot of pictures. :)</b></td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Math:</h3>
Singapore Standards 3A (<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/043958">HIG</a>, <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=043069">Textbook</a>, and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=043080">Workbook</a>)<br />
Singapore Standards 3B (<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/043958">HIG</a>, <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=043070">Textbook</a>, and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=043080">Workbook</a>)<br />
<a href="https://xtramath.org/">Xtra Math</a> <strike><span style="color: red;">or <a href="https://www.homeschoolbuyersco-op.org/timez-attack">Timez Attack</a></span></strike><br />
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<u><strike>Supplements: </strike></u><br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=030213"><strike><span style="color: black;">Singapore Challenging Work Problems-2nd Grade </span></strike></a><br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/BSTAC3"><strike><span style="color: black;">Beast Academy</span></strike></a><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b> <span style="color: red;"><b>End of year update</b>: <i>I have decided that Xtra Math is the single best way to drill math facts. It may not be as fun as Timez Attack, but it is effective when done consistently. Plus, it takes less than 5 minutes to complete. So that is what we used to drill math facts daily.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>We also never really used the two supplements that I have listed above. This may seem like common sense to many of you, but I learned that doing TWO complete math programs is a bit of an overkill. I love the looks of Beast Academy, but we just couldn't find the time in the day to add it in. I also didn't find the need to add in mor</i>e word problems. The standard Singapore workbook had plenty of practice to meet our needs. </span><br />
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It may seem like we have a lot of different math books listed up there, but we are a family who LOVES math. I also believe that math is a concept that needs to be over practiced. You can always reach a deeper understanding when it comes to math. You never run out of things to learn.<br />
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Our <u>main</u> math curriculum will be Singapore standards. The kids are thriving with this math program. They consistently test many grade levels ahead and math. And perhaps most importantly, they enjoy learning the "Singapore" way.<br />
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We have a few lessons to finish up in Singapore 2B, and then we will start with Singapore 3A. I have given up stressing about what book we are in when we start and stop the school year. Instead, we work diligently towards 100% mastery in math. I have seen so many kids struggle in upper level math because they have a weak foundation in the basics. So instead of rushing to complete a book before some arbitrary end of the school year, we spend as long as we need to master the material.<br />
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We will also be sprinkling in a few supplements as we have time. Some days we warm up with the <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/030213">Singapore Math Challenging Word Problems</a> book. And trust me, they are not exaggerating when they say Challenging! These problems are difficult, but we are not a family who runs away from a challenge! In fact, we love 'hard' math problems. I have found that the majority of our learning comes from the struggle in reaching a solution. And it is a great character lesson in perseverance. We are using a book that is a grade level behind from their regular math as another way of reviewing.<br />
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On a whim, I have also decided to test out <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BKAEJKQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BKAEJKQ&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=H2R5WOXYOZGJUTMV">Beast Academy</a>. We will be working through those books when we feel like we need a change....sprinkling them in as we have the time and inclination. (We will probably NOT finish these. So don't think we are doing two math programs.) Beast Academy is another math program that encourages conceptual understanding and deep thinking as opposed to rote problem solving. Again, the problems in these books are quite challenging.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyvwXPX5vPCmzTwuAlMMAKPh2suW_EzGOls15fXuy5bQQ0JyzHZZfeEiY5xmaWrBVZPhRVQ1BlNNs28NntZDBQtfaD-9XAf8BVyFeo1SIpzU6syUguw1FZcEOPzbYloPR7KDR4u6uiirb/s1600/IMG_0397.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyvwXPX5vPCmzTwuAlMMAKPh2suW_EzGOls15fXuy5bQQ0JyzHZZfeEiY5xmaWrBVZPhRVQ1BlNNs28NntZDBQtfaD-9XAf8BVyFeo1SIpzU6syUguw1FZcEOPzbYloPR7KDR4u6uiirb/s1600/IMG_0397.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raising bookworms!</td></tr>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Reading:</h3>
<a href="http://www.sonlight.com/subjects/readers/readers-3/">Sonlight Grade 3 readers</a> (plus library books)<br />
NOTE: We do not use the Sonlight language arts package. I love Sonlight, but their language arts products were not a good fit for our family. We just use their suggested books and readers schedule. <br />
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<u>Supplements:</u><br />
<a href="https://www.oneminutereader.com/">One Minute Reader</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=007331"><strike>All About Reading 4</strike></a><br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=004100"><strike>Reading Detective</strike></a><br />
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<b style="color: red;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />End of year update</b><span style="color: red;">: <i>Our "reading" subject this year basically consisted of the kids reading aloud to me for 20-30 minutes per day from really good books. We would informally discuss these books so that I could subtly judge their comprehension. My main goals were to 1) increase their reading level, 2) build fluency; teach kids to read aloud smoothly and elegantly, 3) raise children who love to read. (Hence no 'comprehension workboooks', quizes, reports, etc.) </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>The kids made huge progress in reading this year. We not only met our goals, but we exceeded them. I had several friends tell me that I was scheduling too much reading aloud practice in our day, but my gut told me that that was what my kids needed. And I am glad I listened to my instincts! Looking back, I know it was time well invested. </i></span><br />
<i style="color: red;"><br /></i> <i style="color: red;">The Sonlight readers were a huge hit this year. I really like how Sonlight staggers easier readers with more difficult readers. That really helped to increase their reading level while also giving them practice reading fluently.</i><br />
<i style="color: red;"><br /></i> <i style="color: red;">We also added in some history and science selections at their reading level. </i><br />
<i style="color: red;"><br /></i> <i style="color: red;">We only used One Minute Reader a few times. I pulled out Reading Detective and did a few lessons. However, I realized that it was busy work. I personally think that reading and narrating is a much better use of our time. </i><br />
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This year will be all about practice, practice, practice when it comes to reading. So our main reading lesson time will be devoted to listening to both kids read aloud for 30 minutes per day. I will also be encouraging independent reading whenever and however possible.<br />
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We are using Sonlight's Grade 3 Readers package as our book list base. However, we quickly run out of books when we read for 30 minutes per day. So I also allow the kids to choose level appropriate titles of interest from the library to read. (Sometimes Mommy picks the book; other times they get to pick.)<br />
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I will also be supplementing our reading lesson as needed with several other resources. I will use these as I see a need.<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>The One Minute reader app works on fluency and prosody through repeated oral readings. </li>
<li><strike>Reading Detective works on comprehension.</strike></li>
<li><strike>And All About Reading 4 will be for advanced phonics instruction. We have finished about half of this book but put it on hold for awhile. I could tell the kids needed pure practice before moving ahead. </strike></li>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Spelling:</h3>
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/AASL3M">All About Spelling 3</a> and then <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/AASL4M">start 4</a><br />
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<b style="color: red;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />E</b><span style="color: red;"><b>nd of year update</b>: I ended up separating the kids in spelling. It is like a switch went off in Marcus's head with spelling this year. All of the sudden he just started naturally knowing how to spell words. He not only finished AAS 3, he also made it to lesson 20 of AAS 4. </span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red;">Sophie, on the other hand, was still really struggling. No matter how much we practiced our All About Spelling words, she could not remember how to spell them. So, I ended up switching her to a program made especially for dyslexic students called <a href="http://www.soundfoundations.co.uk/en_US/">Apples and Pears spelling book A</a> which she completed. She seemed to do better with a morpheme spelling program. </span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span> We ended last year about 1/3 of the way through All About Spelling 3. Like math, I believe that spelling needs to be over practiced for success. I also believe that it is worth going at your own pace to build a strong foundation in this subject. So, we move as fast or as slow as we have to in order to master the spelling concepts. So my plan is to work diligently and start book 4 whenever we get there.<br />
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For now, I have both my 7-year-old and 8-year-old combined in spelling. HOWEVER, I honestly don't know if this will work long term. In a perfect world, I would probably split them into two separate spelling lessons; I just haven't found a way to make that happen in reality.<br />
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Both kids are whizzes in math....but both kids struggle with reading and spelling. This means that they both require a very teacher intensive program to learn to spell. Independent workbooks or traditional spelling lists are NOT going to cut it with these kids. My 8 year old seems to be thriving with the <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/orton-gillingham-approach">Orton-Gillingham </a>based methods used in All About Spelling. However, my 7 year old would probably benefit from a morpheme-based approach to spelling. (Perhaps Apples and Pears?) For now, I am going to keep them combined and move at a slower pace---however, you may see me making a switch later on this year. ;)<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Latin:</h3>
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=SSLDVD">Song School Latin 1</a> <strike>and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/SSLTN2">Song School Latin 2</a></strike><br />
<span style="color: red;"><br /></span> <span style="color: red;"><b>End of year Update: </b><i>We only made it through Song School Latin 1 this year. However, our introduction to Latin was a huge success. My goal was to help the children fall in love with Latin, and that goal was accomplished. We will start Song School Latin next year. <a href="https://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2016/02/song-school-latin.html">See my complete review of Song School Latin here</a>. </i></span><br />
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Latin a new subject for us this year. I was all set to use Prima Latina by Memoria Press. (<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2015/03/memoria-press-prima-latina-review.html">See my review here</a>.) However, after looking at my subject line up in the context of reality, I knew I had to makes some cuts somewhere. I just wasn't going to be able to cram it all in no matter how hard I tried! :) I made some priority calls, and I decided to switch to a 'less intense' version of Latin. The kids are both in the upper age range of Song School Latin 1. This means the program will probably feel easy for them and be a bit easier for me to teach. So we will move through the Song School program at a quicker pace. We may switch to Prima Latina next year. I love all of the bells and whistles that come with Classical Academic Press products (DVDs, fun cartoons, songs, etc.)---but I feel like the layout of Memoria Press makes more sense when it comes to foreign language<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Composition and Grammar:</h3>
<a href="http://www.treasuredconversations.com/">Treasured Conversations</a> <span style="color: red;"> (Completed part one, the first 8 weeks worth of lessons)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/006983">Evan Moore Daily Language Review-2nd Grade</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Impromptu Adds (Not in the original plan):</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1UoIRc9">First Language Lessons 3</a>, </span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1UoIFJP">Classical Academic Press Writing and Rhetoric Fable</a> (One term, did not complete)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Dictation from <a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/store/spelling-wisdom/">Spelling Wisdom</a></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1WAdoKt">English Lessons Through Litterature 2</a> (For Sophie, 2nd Grade)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1WAdqBQ">English Lessons Through Litterature 3</a> (for Marcus, 3rd Grade)</span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1UoJ1QM">The Most Writing Lesson Ever</a> (teacher resource)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>End of Year Update: </b><i>I feel like we had a really good year with learning to write. As you can see, we used a variety of things to work on composition and grammar. Unlike math, I feel like it is OK to use a variety of resources when teaching a child to write. Language is an art. When I saw a weakness, I would find a resource which would help with that specific area. When I saw a strength, I would attempt to allow it to shine in their writing. </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>The variety made teaching writing really fun. Plus, I feel like this is a better plan than just mindlessly checking off boxes and completing books. Completing a book does not necessarily produce a good writer. </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>We started the year off combined. However, like spelling, I ended up separating the kids into separate lessons halfway through the year. They are no longer working at the same level, and this made the most sense. </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>The first quarter, we did the first 8 weeks of Treasured Conversations (which I loved!). We also added in some prepared dictation from Spelling Wisdom. (Love that program too!)</i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>Next, we continued with First Language Lessons 3 and added CAP Writing and Rhetoric book 1. (It was OK but doesn't provide a lot of assistance with improving your writing. I will not be completing this book or this series.) </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>Finally, we spend the last half of the year using English Lessons Through Litterature 2 (for Sophie) and 3 (for Marcus). I really love this program. I have been telling everyone who will listen how great it is. We only made it through half of these books and will continue where we left off next year. Marcus also started on writing a book called "Phoenix Slayer". :) </i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span> <span style="color: red;"><i>I used the book <a href="http://amzn.to/1UoJ1QM">The Most Wonderful Writing Lesson Ever</a> as a teacher resource to help me give quality feedback on their writing. I highly recommend that book. </i></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Composition wise, my goals for 3rd grade include teaching the kids to write strong sentences and eventually strong paragraphs given a topic sentence. I looked (and actually purchased...blush) several different writing programs. However, I finally settled on Treasured Conversations. It covers strong sentence writing, paragraph writing, outlining and note taking. It also teaches the parts of speech in relation to grammar.<br />
<br />
We are also using Evan Moore's Daily language review to work on mechanics, vocabulary, alphabetizing, and a host of other skills not covered in Treasured Conversations. All in all, this is a light year for us when it comes to grammar. However, my REAL focus is on original paragraph writing. I will hit the grammar aspect harder next year.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vZgsKQfc_cRIqk-ACKIVc0HxkRK8QRoFCxVyG2BgvWxvgfvnjtlcFIQF8oEqZhLfHtmo75E02qXTlrITS6lRe-4mYOE2ZdW_B7w1RkXxuo87_GMK7ZiNQdRg_1kSUWahTBMN2iV9Rao9/s1600/Sophie+History.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vZgsKQfc_cRIqk-ACKIVc0HxkRK8QRoFCxVyG2BgvWxvgfvnjtlcFIQF8oEqZhLfHtmo75E02qXTlrITS6lRe-4mYOE2ZdW_B7w1RkXxuo87_GMK7ZiNQdRg_1kSUWahTBMN2iV9Rao9/s1600/Sophie+History.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sophie completing a very messy "archaeological" dig in my kitchen!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
History:</h3>
Finish Story of the World 1-Greek and Romans<br />
(<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/010992">Book</a>, <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=010993">Activity Guide Map Work</a>, and <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/025448">Audiobook</a>)<br />
<br />
Last year we finished up the first 20 chapters (or so) of Story of the World Volume 1. I was originally planning on trying to get through the whole book--but that just didn't happen. So we will pick up where we left off. Last year our main focus was on the ancient Egyptians. This year our focus will be on the ancient Greeks and Romans. (And there is PLENTY to cover when it comes to that topic!)<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>End of Year Update: </b> <i>For once, I have nothing to add or change in this area. We did what we set off to do! I still love Story of the World, and we are going to continue with it next year. </i></span><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Geography:</h3>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0974140104/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0974140104&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=S5ADAFXOORMQZ6YY">Visualize World Geography</a>-Africa, Middle East, Greece, and Rome<br />
<a href="http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/Geography.htm">Shepherd Software</a><br />
<br />
We will continue using the Visualize World Geography program. I purchased the old (and now out of print) book version of the program instead of the more expensive DVD program. We will finish up learning all of the countries in Africa, and then we will start learning the countries of the Middle East and Mediterranean. We are loosely tying this into our history studies.<br />
<br />
We also utilize Shepherd Software to review. It is something the kids can do independently, and it helps keep our past geography lessons fresh in their mind.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">End of Year Update: </b><span style="color: red;"> </span><i style="color: red;">Geography was a success this year. The kids can now identify EVERY country in North America, South America, Africa, and Europe. That is a huge accomplishment. </i><br />
<i style="color: red;"><br /></i> <i style="color: red;">We are still learning the continents of Asia and the general "Oceania" area. That will be our goal for next year. After that, I am not sure what we will do for geography. Maybe some physical geography study? Or some cultural study of the different places? Or possibly learn to <a href="http://amzn.to/1t8ASuh">draw the continents</a>? So many choices. </i><br />
<i style="color: red;"><br /></i> <span style="color: red;"><i>Learning the "grammar" of geography at an early age has been a really wonderful thing. Whenever they hear a place mentioned in a living history book, on the news, or in a movie, they now have some frame of reference for where that place is. It allows them to have some mental pegs to hang the information on. </i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIQelt4zuriGGu6PFzmT0_afdGZHKjfzr5c-_Ys1bqD-c9nGQPytaanPhssocTxfmwLMnpIw2WyIomrSc8IxkkvfuddaqXWwGLisYvAVuEhgiKEeQ1LCt8TaGS2x8zmUJ4gfMqeI_f4w0/s1600/DSC_0259.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIQelt4zuriGGu6PFzmT0_afdGZHKjfzr5c-_Ys1bqD-c9nGQPytaanPhssocTxfmwLMnpIw2WyIomrSc8IxkkvfuddaqXWwGLisYvAVuEhgiKEeQ1LCt8TaGS2x8zmUJ4gfMqeI_f4w0/s1600/DSC_0259.jpg" /></a></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Science:</h3>
<a href="http://wasecabiomes.org/products/a-introduction-to-the-biomes-with-curriculum-elementary"><strike>Waseca Introduction to Biomes</strike></a><br />
<a href="http://barefootmeandering.com/site/quark-chronicles/">Quark Chronicles-Botany (maybe Zoology)</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>End of Year Update: </b> <i>We had a great year of science using Quark Chronicles Botany as a read aloud. Plus, lots and lots of great living science readers. The kids enjoyed some hands on projects using the website Mystery Science. We also did a lot of gardening and nature study this year. </i></span><br />
<br />
My original plan was to move into Chemistry this year. However, I decided to give the kids another year to mature and do a biome study instead. It should be a great way to tie in Earth Science, Biology... and even geography. We will use the free download and supplement it with LOTS and LOTS of living science book read alouds. We will be getting together with friends once per week to complete the activities in the guide, and then doing the reading at home in preparation.<br />
<br />
Speaking of living books, we are going to be reading through the new living book science program "Quark Chronicles"throughout the year. It looks like a LOT of fun. If there is time, we will also dive into Zoology.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Memory Work:</h3>
History Sentences<br />
History Timeline<br />
Science Sentences<br />
Poetry<br />
Shakespeare<br />
Grammar<br />
Bible<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>End of Year Update: </b> <i>We organized all of our memory work into a very sophisticated electronic flashcard too called ANKI. It is completely free, and I highly recommend it. It does take some time to get it set up. However, this was a great investment for us. </i></span><br />
<br />
Our memory work comes from a variety of sources. Much of it comes from the book <a href="http://www.lulu.com/shop/andrew-a-campbell/living-memory/ebook/product-17520206.html">Living Memory</a> as well as the <a href="http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/fogu4thed.html">Classical Conversations foundations book</a> and <a href="http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/cycle1audiocds.html">CD</a>. However, I also use quite a bit of "mama-made"memory work. I basically take a list, date, or definition and set it to music for the kids to sing.<br />
<br />
I import these into a play list in iTunes, and we listen to them in the car or while we are cleaning. We will also continue to review the English Grammar lists and definitions from <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/034320">First Language Lessons</a>. Our bible memory work comes from <a href="http://www.seedsfamilyworship.com/videos/listen-online/">Seeds Family worship</a>.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Electives:</h3>
Most of our electives are covered in various homeschool clubs that I am a part of. Some of these I have volunteered to start, and others are run by friends of mine. I do this on purpose because it keeps me accountable to complete these electives. Otherwise I am tempted to skip these important extras. We meet once per month at a library or park to cover these electives as a group. Afterwards the kids stick around to play. So it builds socialization into our week too. In the summer, we typically go to a playground to play. In the winter, we bring chess and other board games and play those.<br />
<br />
Our electives are listed below....<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Poetry</h3>
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/032560">IEW Linguistic Development Through Poetry Memorization</a><br />
<br />
I love this program. It is a continuation from last year so we will pick up where we left off and continue to review the poems memorized from last year. We also love the CD that comes with the program. (Andrew Pudewa does a wonderful job reciting the poetry.)<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Shakespeare</h3>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0307951502/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0307951502&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=TURFF2VZZSWNO6GB">How to Teach your Children Shakespeare</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=coville%20shakespeare&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=COVILLE%20%2Caps%2C180&tag=httptheattach-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&linkId=YXKK3WYKN7PW6QUL">Coville Retellings</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=Young%20Readers%20shakespeare&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3AYoung%20Readers%20shakespeare&tag=httptheattach-20&url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&linkId=WRIG4BFMEIDSCOM5">Young Readers Retellings</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002CHJS2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0002CHJS2&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=NDDJZHUOETLG3KHA">BBC Shakespeare Animated Series </a><br />
<br />
I am helping to host a Shakespeare club this year. This year we are going to be studying Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, The Twelfth Night, The Tempest, and Midsummers Night's Dream. I hope this is not too many plays for one year. However, this is my first year running the program so we will have to see.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Bird Club</h3>
This year, we also joined a bird club. We are using the new <a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/store/learning-about-birds-with-thornton-burgess/">Simply Charlotte Mason Learning about Birds</a> curriculum as our spine. At home, we read a chapter from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0486428400/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0486428400&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=CARCHQ4FQ5LGB4GA">Burgess Bird Book</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0486242617/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0486242617&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=6TPRNMCR54GP5NQT">color a picture of the bird</a>, and narrate something interesting that we learned about the bird. We meet as a group once per month to discuss the bird we are learning about and then try to spot it. The kids are also keeping a running "bird log" of the birds they have spotted this year.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Nature Study Club</h3>
Our nature study club will study the following topics:<br />
August- crayfish<br />
September- bison<br />
October- buckeye trees<br />
November- Squirrels<br />
December- No meeting<br />
January - constellations<br />
February- pine trees<br />
March- maple trees<br />
<br />
We do the reading at home and then meet once per month as a group to look for these things and observe them in nature.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>End of Year Update: </b> <i>Nature study kind of fell by the wayside this year. I send the kids out occasionally to do some nature study in our backyard. However, nothing was focused. I felt OK though because we were doing some nature appreciation in bird club....plus, we did a lot with plants in our Botany exploration in science. </i></span><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Music Appreciation </h3>
To be determined....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEEIIU4Vbakr409mu-W0qXc3rP_SQ53hvI4eUk7qqL55H0EdzQRKuBOBzaZg4SnmmdduE4zAoo75ehKXu_4zE9khBYYol9OdAriiSiHcAPG7TwluxpBPj02vLZpMa1v7GDnD3lg_0GKJp/s1600/IMG_1558.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEEIIU4Vbakr409mu-W0qXc3rP_SQ53hvI4eUk7qqL55H0EdzQRKuBOBzaZg4SnmmdduE4zAoo75ehKXu_4zE9khBYYol9OdAriiSiHcAPG7TwluxpBPj02vLZpMa1v7GDnD3lg_0GKJp/s1600/IMG_1558.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Club: Our art curriculum includes lots of visits to our local museum with friends!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Visual Arts</h3>
Mama-made art program.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Physical Education</h3>
Homeschool Gym<br />
Gymnastics<br />
Swim Lessons<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-25012449195167707042016-02-23T07:54:00.000-08:002016-02-23T08:09:44.817-08:00Song School Latin<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGf_aL-4qO-YH_NGFaf6vH_hsdNTa1o3LdwGZ627m4VVPtLyzXy2cn6nIT8WQASVJku4hk07FUtp8nIj7tFR-X4z6AicferngiWf72K4LdumDGg4qiwErcSN0znjP1HZnjGqm3_v5H1su/s1600/_DSC0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGf_aL-4qO-YH_NGFaf6vH_hsdNTa1o3LdwGZ627m4VVPtLyzXy2cn6nIT8WQASVJku4hk07FUtp8nIj7tFR-X4z6AicferngiWf72K4LdumDGg4qiwErcSN0znjP1HZnjGqm3_v5H1su/s640/_DSC0379.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This year Latin was a new subject for us. (See article: <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/latin/">Why studyLatin?</a>)<br />
We’ve completed the <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/prodlist.php?subject=Foreign+Language/15&category=Songschool+Latin+Book+1/10790">Song School Latin 1</a> program, and let me tell you: We absolutely LOVED it!<br />
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Every time I announced it was time for our Latin lesson, the kids would actually cheer. I repeat: They would actually cheer about Latin! I wanted a program that would give my kids a good first impression of Latin. My goal was to whet their appetite for the language and give them motivation to complete the more rigorous studies of the language to follow in future years. Song School Latin filled the bill! We have all learned a lot, and even my 2 year old is speaking in complete sentences in Latin. (This was not our intended goal, but a funny thing he has picked up through informal exposure!)<insert video=""><br /> </insert><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmE-5pJx6xZka4a5ORJZxQCotdM6PbWlxg-9biWlsnsFAqBndYoOCMVYj5qEz1fotFIliBBf_kateK_uOZSbEN9vHNcYmfht8Q06UhGF_coxADZsf1ZlDoVciMp7x2TO3UPYj_AcvMT3I/s1600/_DSC0364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmE-5pJx6xZka4a5ORJZxQCotdM6PbWlxg-9biWlsnsFAqBndYoOCMVYj5qEz1fotFIliBBf_kateK_uOZSbEN9vHNcYmfht8Q06UhGF_coxADZsf1ZlDoVciMp7x2TO3UPYj_AcvMT3I/s640/_DSC0364.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
We are using the Song School Latin Package with DVD which is priced at $78.95 on Rainbow Resource. This package comes with: </div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=032157">Latin Monkey Match Flashcard Game</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042137">Song School Latin Student Text and Song CD</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042139">Song School Latin Teacher's Edition</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=054693">Song School Latin DVD</a></li>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Components of the Program</h3>
1) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042137">Student Text and Song CD</a>:<br />
<i>(Listen to <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/song-school-latin-book-1-program/#.VkdS3qIu6Lo">samples of Songs here</a>. View inside <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042137">the workbook here</a>.) </i><br />
<br />
The heart and soul of the program can be found in the Student text and included song CD. You will need this book at a minimum to teach the program. The book is consumable, so you will need a book for every student in your house. Inside the book you will find 31 lessons (including review lessons). <br />
<br />
Each student book contains a copy of the song CD inside a pouch on the back cover. The Song CD contains
31 songs and chants in both Ecclesiastical and Classical pronunciation.
(Different pronunciations are separated into different tracks for ease
of use.) These songs/chants are very catchy to help re-enforce the vocabulary taught
on the DVD program. Older children might consider the songs to be too "babyish". (At least, I have heard this comment from friends of mine.) However, our family did not feel this way at all. We <u>all</u> liked the songs and felt they were very useful tools for memorizing the vocabulary. You will have to listen to samples and decide for
yourself!<br />
<br />
2) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=054693">Song School Latin 1 DVD</a>. <br />
<i>(See <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/song-school-latin-book-1-program/#.VkdS3qIu6Lo">Sample DVD Lesson Here</a>. This is very typical of all of the lessons.) </i><br />
<br />
The DVD program is not required, but I <u>highly</u> recommend it. I think that it is one of the reasons my kids have been so successful for Latin this year. It is a very fun and effective extra. Plus, it has made the subject really easy for me to teach. This has been my busiest year with homeschooling to date, so I appreciate the help of an experience <i>magistra</i> when it comes to teaching Latin. <br />
<br />
The DVD
is really well done in my opinion, and manages to teach a lot of
information in a fun way. I am a huge fan of Memoria Press Latin, but I
have to admit that the Classical Academic Press DVD has a much higher production value. Plus, it is a lot
more fun.<br />
<br />
The DVD
contains 24 lessons. (One for each new topic in the book. Review chapters do not have an associated DVD lesson.) Parents can VERY easily
choose which Latin pronunciation they want to use with their children
using the menu on the DVD.
(This was not the case with Prima Latina which we have also used.) <br />
<br />
Each lesson starts out with an
introduction from a "lively magistra". The magistra introduces the
vocabulary and grammar lesson. This portion of the program contains some very "artistic"
cinematography. The camera sort of focuses on unrelated things as the lady is talking. My
children found this distracting. I heard one of my children say, "Why
are they showing a spatula when they are talking about the word
Magistra?" (See sample lesson to see what I am talking about.) I
personally <u>liked</u> the way the program was filmed. I think it looks nice. However, I thought I would mention the reaction of my children.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/054693">The DVD</a>
program then continues with a funny animated skit staring a silly
monkey named Simeon. In the skits, the characters speak mostly in English, but sprinkle in any known Latin vocabulary. My children all love this part of <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/054693">the DVD</a> program. Even my two year old looks forward to our "monkey taught Latin program". <br />
<br />
Next,
the program continues with the "Derivative River" portion of the
lesson. These lessons are taught by Dr. Christopher Perin, and show
how common Spanish, French, and English words are derived from the new
Latin vocabulary. I really like this part of <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/product/sku/054693">the DV</a>D
lesson. (One of the reasons we are studying Latin in the first place
is to increase our vocabulary.) I will be honest and warn you that
that most kids will not find these parts of the lesson thrilling. They
are VERY well done, but not exactly fun. (It is hard to compete with
an animated monkey when you are dealing with young children.) My
children are picking up new vocabulary words from watching the DVDs. (They especially enjoy using the word <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defenestration">defenstrate</a> in conversation now. <eye roll="">) </eye><br />
<br />
3) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=032157">Monkey Match Flashcards </a><br />
<i>(Download sample of these cards <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/latin-monkey-match-flashcard-game/#.VkeAcqIu6Lo">here</a>.)</i><br />
<br />
These flashcards are sturdy
and colorful. One set includes the words/phrases in Latin; the other
set
contains the same words translated in English. The flashcards are nicely color coded so you can quickly sort them by chapter. The cards include instruction for playing memory, Go Fish, Old Maid, and many more. I think they are a nice extra if your kids enjoy reviewing with games.<br />
<br />
4) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042139">Teacher's Manual </a><br />
<i>(See inside the teacher's manual <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/song-school-latin-book-1-program/#.VkeDFaIu6Lq">here</a>.)</i><br />
The teacher's manual was nicely formatted and well laid out. However, I found that I didn't really need it to teach the program.
All of the answers to the student textbook are fairly obvious. (Even
to me, and I have NO experience with Latin. I am just learning along
with the kids.) The teachers manual also includes some other ideas on
how to teach the lesson. However, I have never implemented any of
these ideas in my home. <br />
<br />
<br />
5) <a href="http://headventureland.com/">Headventureland.com</a><br />
<i>(Subscription is not included in the package).</i><br />
Classical Academic Press also has a website made for review called <a href="http://headventureland.com/moodle/">Headventureland</a>. (See intro video here.) On this website, kids can review Song School Latin by playing video games, watching fun movies, downloading board games, and more. Kids earn badges and can compete with other Song School Latin users for top score. The first three chapters of Song School Latin are free on this site. So parents can try it out and see how they like it. After that, students will need to pay $19.95 per year to join the site. We did end up paying for a subscription, and my kids have enjoyed the fun review games. I put headventureland.com on their independent work checklist everyday. <br />
<br />
6) <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/product-support/#ssl">Various Free Resources</a><br />
Parents can also download free MP3 files which contain all of the pronunciations for each chapter. (We use these weekly for review!) In addition, there are also other free resources available for Song School Latin online including coloring pages. My two year old often wants to be included in "school", so I can give him a coloring sheet to scribble on so he feels included. However, I would imagine that 4-5 year olds tagging along would enjoy these sheets even more. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus takes Monkey Match very seriously! He's got his game face on. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Pacing:</h3>
We try to do a few
minutes of Latin everyday. I think this is really important when
learning a new language. I find that we typically spend anywhere from
5-15 minutes on Latin per day. This is much less time than we were
spending with Prima Latina. Although that is because: 1) My kids are on
the upper end of the age range with SSL and the lower end of the age
range of Prima Latina, and 2) Prima Latina covers a lot more Latin
vocabulary, phrases, and grammar than SSL. Song School Latin is more of a fun introduction. <br />
<br />
Song School Latin 1 contains 31 lessons. Each lesson is meant to take approximately 1 week, which equates to a full school year of Latin with some slack time built in for holidays and review. I think this would be true if you were using it with the lower end of the recommended age range. However, we find that working at a very easy pace, we are able to complete approximately 1-2
lessons per week. <br />
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<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Typical Week of Study for Us:</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Day 1: Watch the DVD</h4>
My children really enjoy the DVD that comes with this program. I watch along with the children as I have NO experience speaking Latin. This helps me know how to pronounce the vocabulary and phrases. <br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Day 2: Listen to Song CD and Pronunciations</h4>
<a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/song-school-latin-book-1-program/#.VkdS3qIu6Lo">free pronunciation mp3 files here</a>.)<br />
<br />
The next day we will listen to the songs for the chapter. We also listen to the short pronunciation file just to make sure we are saying the words correctly. <br />
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Day 3: Added Practice (only if needed)</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The next day I will quiz the kids orally on their vocabulary for all chapters covered so far. If I feel that they have things pretty well wrapped up, we skip this day and move on to Day 4. If there is hesitation, I go ahead and review for another day or two. <br />
<br />
If we need more practice, we will review the vocabulary in several fun ways. Classical Academic Press's motto is "classical subjects creatively taught." And I find that is REALLY a true statement. They somehow take all of these very challenging subjects and find fun ways to teach and review them. We have caught on to this spirit of instruction and have invented several fun ways to review Latin. <br />
<br />
1) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=032157">Monkey Match Review Game</a>- <br />
<br />
2) <a href="http://headventureland.com/moodle/course/view.php?id=20">Headventure Land</a>- </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
3) Latin Dance Party--I don't mean Latin as in music from Latin America, I mean Latin as in....um....Latin. I will play the Song School Latin CD and we all sort of dance around to the songs and have fun. This sounds very simple, but my kids love our Latin Dance Parties.<br />
<br />
4) Roman Soldier Review Game-- This is a review game my 9 year old son made up that has become a family tradition this school year. In this review game, one of the kids pretends to be a Roman Solider on patrol. He stops someone else and starts to speak to them in Latin. If they can't remember a word or answer a question, we know they are a spy and not a Roman citizen so we arrest them. My students have cracked me up during this game. They have dressed up as Greek slaves, old peasants, and other creative costumes using towels, sheets, and whatever else we can find. <br />
<br />
5) Throuhout the Day Latin Review- We also have a running game where we are not aloud to say any of the English words that we know the Latin words for. If someone catches you, they are aloud to demand a favor. (This was a game created by my 7 year old daughter.) <br />
<br />
As you can see, we have had a LOT of fun learning Latin this year. </div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
Day 4: Workbook</h4>
Once I feel like they have the vocabulary down, I have them complete the pages in the <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/proddtl.php?id=042137&subject=Foreign+Language/15&category=Songschool+Latin+Book+1/10790">Song School Latin student textbook</a>. My kids are reading and writing fluently, so these workbook pages are really easy for them. (This would not have been the case if we had started this program even one year earlier!) They can complete an entire chapter in one day very easily, and they are able to do this independently. (Again, I would not expect this with a younger child.)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GxOAAjYOpIUZhUfuS0gK7pwm_9u2vWUmyzeXtx81KBs9WKvSvmgRMXBGU0dDuRnGAc1wKsMT891IQdL1ENN5HBsOQvNEjWoqVR7RPbhfrhNbljrDRZA-dcX-9447hGOXUEGamQUuOQIC/s1600/_DSC0391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GxOAAjYOpIUZhUfuS0gK7pwm_9u2vWUmyzeXtx81KBs9WKvSvmgRMXBGU0dDuRnGAc1wKsMT891IQdL1ENN5HBsOQvNEjWoqVR7RPbhfrhNbljrDRZA-dcX-9447hGOXUEGamQUuOQIC/s640/_DSC0391.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Final Thoughts</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think that this has been one of my busiest years ever as a homeschooling mom! Not only do we have a very full curriculum, I also have a two year old in the mix. (That really complicates things.) Song School Latin has made it very easy to give my children an introduction to Latin. <b> However, that is exactly what Song School Latin is meant to be: a light introduction to Latin. </b> That is perfect for us. However, If you are looking for a more in depth study, you might be better off with a different program. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Pros:</h3>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Quick! It takes only a handful of minutes per day to complete. </li>
<li>FUN! I can't tell you how much fun we are having with this class.</li>
<li>My 2nd and 3rd grade students can work through the workbook mostly on their own. </li>
<li>I can quickly review latin vocabulary anytime and anywhere thanks to the MP3 pronunciations, song files, and DVD. (I can't tell you how many times we have completed Latin in the car on the way to some club or activity.) </li>
<li>Not a lot of writing. I can see this as a pro if you are using this with very young children, or children with learning disabilities. </li>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Cons:</h3>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Not as thorough of an introduction as some other beginning Latin Programs. (Example: Prima Latina). Your children will NOT be fluent in Latin at the end of this program. They will only be exposed to some vocabulary.</li>
<li>Very little grammar covered.</li>
<li>Some kids complain that the songs are "babyish" (We did not feel that way, but I have heard that complaint.)</li>
</ul>
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<br />
<i>Note: <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/">Rainbow Resource</a> was generous enough to give me a copy of the Song School Latin DVD package to review for my readers in exchange for my honest opinions. All of the opinions in this article are my own. </i><br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-31894931506902720632015-11-09T15:04:00.000-08:002015-11-09T15:04:58.368-08:0025 Thanksgiving Books for All Ages <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i><b>Authors Note: </b> I originally published a Thanksgiving book
list in 2011. I wanted to republish this list updated with some new
jewels that I have discovered. My wish is that these books will help
create some wonderful memories this holiday season, and remind us all to
slow down and be thankful for all that we have. The links below are amazon affiliate links. </i><br />
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<br />
Thanksgiving
is one of my favorite holidays. For me the holiday is extra special
because it was around this time nine years ago that I first became a
mother. So I have an added reason to be thankful this time of year. <br />
<br />
To help us all
get in the mood for Thanksgiving, I recently filled our book basket with
some of our favorite picture books for this holiday. I don't know of a
better way to celebrate the holiday season than time spent snuggled up
with your children sharing a good book. It is a surefire way to create
some cherished holiday memories for both parent and child. So--to get
you in the mood for Thanksgiving, here are some great books on the topic
that you can share with your children. Some are historical fiction,
others celebrate our modern day version of the holiday, and some of just
silly and fun--But they are all great books and worth a read!<br />
<br />
I hope that you will take time out to make these stories a tradition in your family too!<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b>Thanksgiving Picture Books for Older Kids (And Adults Too!)</b></h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I
was hesitant to assign an age range to the following group of books.
They require a slightly longer attention span than the books listed
above. However, even adults and older kids will apprecate the beauty
in the stories and illustration in these books. <b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0618771247/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0618771247&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Thanksgiving Door</a> by Debby Atwell<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003T0GB1A/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003T0GB1A&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=LI57FM27EZU54QMI" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B003T0GB1A&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003T0GB1A" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
book is a new discovery for me, and I absolutely CANNOT recommend it
enough. This book is about an older couple living alone named Ed and
Ann. In the book, Ann is making a delicious Thanksgiving feast but
then.....poor Ann burns the dinner! Ann feels just awful. So she
decides to spend Thanksgiving home alone, but Ed is hungry! So he
suggest that they try to find a restaurant that is open. The only
restaurant that they can find that is open is "The New World Cafe" a
restaurant run by immigrants. They enter the restaurant and have a seat
in the deserted dining room. Little do they know, the owners of the
restaurant left the door unlocked by accident. They were planning their
own Thanksgiving celebration. They weren't planning to entertain
customers too! The restaurant owners try to chase the customers away by
banging pots and pans at them. However, the wise grandmother stops
them: "Enough! In old country we bang pots at wolves, not hungry
people. Today is Thanksgiving Day. Family cooks turkey big as
doghouse, but we don't share? Bah!" So the restaurant owners include
Ann and Ed in their celebration. There is conversation, laughter, and
even dancing at the celebration. In the end, Ann agrees that burning
the Thanksgiving dinner was the best thing she ever did! This book
reminds us that despite our cultural differences we are all people with
much more in common than we think! This book is out of print, but I
HIGHLY recommend you search out a used copy of this book at your
library. It is a wonderful read.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807550558/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0807550558&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Memory Cupboard</a>: A Thanksgiving Story by Charlotte Herman<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KBEC1IY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00KBEC1IY&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=7LWFNIMJNU7UPGJK" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00KBEC1IY&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00KBEC1IY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For
young Katie, nothing compares to Thanksgiving at Grandma's house.
However, Katie is heartbroken when she breaks Grandma's cherished gravy
boat at Thanksgiving dinner. It is then that Grandma shows Katie her
special "memory cupboard". This is an excellent book that teaches
although we may grow attached to possessions, it is people who really
matter.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439323282/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0439323282&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Squanto's Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving</a> by Joseph Bruchac<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0152060448/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0152060448&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=3RRRDKK7QQ2T7RC2" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0152060448&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0152060448" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Most
children know the story of the pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving.
However, many are not familiar with the story of Squanto--arguably the
true hero of Thanksgiving. In this book, children will learn the
remarkable story of the first Thanksgiving from another point of view.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689802080/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689802080&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Three Young Pilgrims</a> by Cheryl Harness<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689802080/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689802080&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=LKQ62BBCMCXLH5B2" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0689802080&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0689802080" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
is another living history book that I highly recommend. It is the
story of three young pilgrims named Bartholemew, Remember, and Mary
Allerton. When they and their parents first step down from the <i>Mayflower</i>
after sixty days at sea, they never dream that life in the New World
will be so hard. Many in their Plymouth colony won't make it through the
winter, and the colony's first harvest is possible only with the help
of two friends, Samoset and Squanto.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0849958644/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0849958644&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving</a> by Eric Metaxas<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400320399/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1400320399&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=PP3JSTCBEQWTV3XL" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1400320399&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1400320399" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
"Every
once in a great while, the hand of God is easy to see, and for a brief
moment, fairy tales and history are the same thing. This is the story
about one of those times." So begins this wonderful account of
Squanto's miraculous story. As a young boy, he was captured, taken to
Europe against his will, and sold into slavery. However, that is not
the end of Squanto's story. Remarkably, he finds his way back across
the Atlantic to the land he was born in. And remarkably, he finds it
into his heart to take pity on the English living on his land who he
helps. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689714297/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0689714297">Cranberry Thanksgiving</a> by Wende and Harry Devlin<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1930900635/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1930900635&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=2HEFJ5HY6JGDAROH" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1930900635&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1930900635" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
book tells the story of a traditional New England Thanksgiving on a
cranberry farm. The book is a great reminder that we can't always judge
'a book by its cover' and that sometimes appearances may deceive.
Children will enjoy looking for Grandmother's secret and famous recipe
for Cranberry Bread which is hidden in the book. Baking this bread will
become a wonderful new tradition for you and your family.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/068985143X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=068985143X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=HDHDQIZJHR6NTUDI">Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving</a> by <span class="a-size-medium">Laurie Halse Anderson </span><br />
<span class="a-size-medium"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/068985143X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=068985143X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=HDHDQIZJHR6NTUDI" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=068985143X&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=068985143X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </span><br />
<span class="a-size-medium">Do you think you know everything about Thanksgiving? WELL, did you know that Thanksgiving was once in danger of "dieing out" in our country? True story! This is a wonderful story about how Thanksgiving was saved and became a national holiday. But really---its a story that showcases the importance of perseverance. GREAT book! </span><br />
<span class="a-size-medium"><span class="a-color-secondary"></span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064438503/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0064438503">This is the Feast</a> by Diane Z. Shore, Illustrated by Megan Lloyd<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064438503/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064438503&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=MJZWHBACP6AG3HAG" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0064438503&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0064438503" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
book is written in a lyrical verse which makes it a joy to read aloud
to children. The illustration are meticulous and breathtaking.
Children will really get a sense of what life on the Mayflower might
have been like. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GNLO42/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B005GNLO42">The Pilgrim Cat</a> by Carol Antoinette Peacock, Illustrated by Doris Ettlinger<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N2CL8L8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00N2CL8L8&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=BODCEM76UKOIKHCV" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00N2CL8L8&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00N2CL8L8" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
was another book that we checked out and knew that we would one day
have to buy. My daughter loved this book so much, she actually cried
when it came time to return it to the library! The book
is a historical fiction which follows a cat who jumps aboard the
Mayflower as it is departing England. The cat is befriended by a young
girl named Faith. The book is richly illustrated and a pleasure to
read. The reader really gets a feel for what life might have been like
for a child aboard the mayflower. If you are a cat lover, you must
read this book!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060537116/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0060537116">It's Thanksgiving</a> by Jack Prelutsky, Illustrated by Marylin Hafner</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060537116/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0060537116&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=VGQ7R6S2V6ZLM5MN" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0060537116&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0060537116" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We
love reading poetry together as a family. And after checking this book
out of the library, I just knew that it would someday become a
permanent member of our home library. This collection of poetry talks
about so many different aspects of this holiday--usually in a very
humorous way. This book contains poems about the very first
Thanksgiving, a funny poem about "Dad's football game" after the big
meal, a poem about the Thanksgiving Day parade (where it is
drizzling...isn't it always drizzling during the Thanksgiving Day
parade?!), and another very humorous poem about the things we do with
all of those turkey leftovers. This makes for a great "Thanksgiving
Themed" poetry tea-time. The words are easy enough that most children
can share along with the reading too. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"WBK8oAmT0tJXJthHjINWMO98ozNaaBW79H8uOO3txBfwwE0Kg8QoxL906oJcNE0lo6C8Kk5OLBKuN4m8ciWZqG4tY3%2BX9fmM8ZaDuvneQgI%3D","asin":"0448425297"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448425297/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448425297&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=7CU5GWFJ2KETOQ22">The Night Before Thanksgiving</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Natasha Wing</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"WBK8oAmT0tJXJthHjINWMO98ozNaaBW79H8uOO3txBfwwE0Kg8QoxL906oJcNE0lo6C8Kk5OLBKuN4m8ciWZqG4tY3%2BX9fmM8ZaDuvneQgI%3D","asin":"0448425297"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448425297/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448425297&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=7CU5GWFJ2KETOQ22" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0448425297&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0448425297" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
books makes a wonderful addition to the Thanksgiving day book basket.
It promotes all of the things I love best about this holiday:
togetherness with family and thankfulness. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416919163/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=1416919163">The Very First Thanksgiving Day</a> by Rhonda Gowler Green, Paintings by Susan Baber</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1416919163" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416919163/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1416919163&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=7Z2WGCFOOR24PV2V" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1416919163&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1416919163" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Written
in cumulative rhyme, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story
of the first Thanksgiving. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679802185/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0679802185&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=TD6QK43NUUTU5O5J">The First Thanksgiving</a> by <br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679802185/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0679802185&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=TD6QK43NUUTU5O5J" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0679802185&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0679802185" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<br />
I love the history titles from this series of readers. We own and have read nearly all of them. This one is very complete and does a great job of telling the story in an easy to read format. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Thanksgiving Chapter Books or Longer Read Alouds</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"NxYL76zIuJ0IWDecl%2BP7amH%2Bkyc5pdUusxbgFjQLvZazNhWAFUuatTe%2BPmaT3wx0c6pVLUzYfkgXhtizIC%2FWNeUrl%2BONVac1CADUXLLipM8%3D","asin":"0689710534"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689710534/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689710534&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YRPOJCXVNZVCVLCW">The Thanksgiving Story</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Alice Dalgliesh</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"NxYL76zIuJ0IWDecl%2BP7amH%2Bkyc5pdUusxbgFjQLvZazNhWAFUuatTe%2BPmaT3wx0c6pVLUzYfkgXhtizIC%2FWNeUrl%2BONVac1CADUXLLipM8%3D","asin":"0689710534"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">(Age Range 5-8, 2nd-3rd Grade Reading Level)</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"NxYL76zIuJ0IWDecl%2BP7amH%2Bkyc5pdUusxbgFjQLvZazNhWAFUuatTe%2BPmaT3wx0c6pVLUzYfkgXhtizIC%2FWNeUrl%2BONVac1CADUXLLipM8%3D","asin":"0689710534"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689710534/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689710534&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YRPOJCXVNZVCVLCW" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0689710534&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0689710534" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"NxYL76zIuJ0IWDecl%2BP7amH%2Bkyc5pdUusxbgFjQLvZazNhWAFUuatTe%2BPmaT3wx0c6pVLUzYfkgXhtizIC%2FWNeUrl%2BONVac1CADUXLLipM8%3D","asin":"0689710534"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><span class="introtext" itemprop="description">This
Caldecott Honor Book
recounts the story of the Pilgrims from the time they left England on
the Mayflower through the first Thanksgiving celebration. Written in an
easy to read chapter book format, this book is highly accurate and a
joy to read.</span> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0590440551/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0590440551&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=2WNAW7HXFNH3KRVL">Squanto Friend of the Pilgrims</a> by Clyde Robert Bulla</div>
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(Age Range 7-10, 3rd Grade Reading Level) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0590440551/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0590440551&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=2WNAW7HXFNH3KRVL" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0590440551&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0590440551" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Clyde
Robert Bulla has a knack at capturing historical periods with his
exciting retellings. All of his books are wonderful, and this is no
exception.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375806156/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0375806156&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YZBWF6EAC2BAVAWO">Thanksgiving on Thursday</a> by Mary Pope Osborne</div>
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(Age Range 4-10, 3rd Grade Reading Level) </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375806156/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0375806156&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YZBWF6EAC2BAVAWO" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0375806156&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0375806156" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /> </div>
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I love the Magic School Bus series for beginning chapter book readers. They also make excellent read alouds for younger kids. Like the others in this series, this book takes kids on an exciting adventure with Jack and Annie while subtly teaching them about the first Thanksgiving.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1893103242/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1893103242&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=AKOOQQXTQW5VNA6Q">Pilgrim Stories</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Margaret Pumphrey</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">(Age Range 9 and Up, 5th Grade Reading Level)</span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1893103242" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span></div>
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1893103242/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1893103242&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=DC3COIAPEOLPUPYA" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1893103242&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1893103242" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br /></span></span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"c7TBSaaGnb5xZOSqu0huN3a4D6RtUMXfR09LlbcNcz7UoynBUKIAlfOR8Mgws5v7%2F91lWkuNjVxzMBIWPVhskChfgWfRgyk%2FgXt71VoCH0qsgGvXDu2ouQ%3D%3D","asin":"1893103242"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">"Margaret
Pumphrey, a school teacher in the early 1900s, compiled these stories
for her students, in order to enlarge upon their interest in the lives
of the first Pilgrim settlers in America." This is a wonderful book
which will make a cherished addition to your home library. I highly
recommend you buy the version recently expanded by Rea Berg in 2009. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Thanksgiving Books for Preschoolers</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Its
actually harder to find good Thanksgiving themed books for this age
range than you think! So many of the books targeted at this age range
are filled with anthropomorphic turkeys trying to escape death. I've
always thought that that idea is sort of disturbing for preschoolers.
This list contains none of that nonsense! Instead, I've tried to
capture the truth, goodness, and beauty of the holiday season. There is
a little sillness and fun mixed in for good measure too! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807578894/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0807578894">This is the Turkey</a> by Abby Levin, Illustrated by Paige Billin-Frye</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807578894/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0807578894&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=2NYKNDX3GEQ2LNBR" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0807578894&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0807578894" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's a cute book that I would
recommend for younger children just learning what Thanksgiving is all
about. The story begins with Max picking out a turkey at the grocery
store. It goes on to celebrate all that thanksgiving has to offer: <b>t</b>he food, the family, the preparation, and fellowship This
book also reminds us that our holidays don't always have to be perfect
to be wonderful!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=httptheattach-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0060510986">Thanks for Thanksgiving</a> by Julie Markes, Illustrated by Doris Barrette</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/006051096X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=006051096X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=KQI37FTBADH7CH5O" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=006051096X&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=006051096X" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
is a another great book for very young children and toddlers. The pictures are charming and
inviting, the text is simple, but the message is a good one. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142300063/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0142300063&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=IKNZGCUJMV5OKWZ4"> One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims</a> by <span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"gFtTV37uavTWUcb6QczE45FijYKcjEYObZ520js6o%2FKCEudmKMZ1ZEEUeFbu3wh2K38QQ3hwIsuiozx%2FT4FRT2rzDskLqpP%2F%2FxWxbnX9E4Q%3D","asin":"0142300063"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">by B.G. Hennessy</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"gFtTV37uavTWUcb6QczE45FijYKcjEYObZ520js6o%2FKCEudmKMZ1ZEEUeFbu3wh2K38QQ3hwIsuiozx%2FT4FRT2rzDskLqpP%2F%2FxWxbnX9E4Q%3D","asin":"0142300063"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142300063/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0142300063&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=IKNZGCUJMV5OKWZ4" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0142300063&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0142300063" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"gFtTV37uavTWUcb6QczE45FijYKcjEYObZ520js6o%2FKCEudmKMZ1ZEEUeFbu3wh2K38QQ3hwIsuiozx%2FT4FRT2rzDskLqpP%2F%2FxWxbnX9E4Q%3D","asin":"0142300063"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">This
is a wonderful book for the preschool crowd. Told in a fimilar rhyme
format, this book introduces kids to some of the common themes often
discussed when telling the story of the first thanksgiving. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"gFtTV37uavTWUcb6QczE45FijYKcjEYObZ520js6o%2FKCEudmKMZ1ZEEUeFbu3wh2K38QQ3hwIsuiozx%2FT4FRT2rzDskLqpP%2F%2FxWxbnX9E4Q%3D","asin":"0142300063"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"gFtTV37uavTWUcb6QczE45FijYKcjEYObZ520js6o%2FKCEudmKMZ1ZEEUeFbu3wh2K38QQ3hwIsuiozx%2FT4FRT2rzDskLqpP%2F%2FxWxbnX9E4Q%3D","asin":"0142300063"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448422867/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448422867&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=3LY6LAOCTVNR5QZJ">Thanksgiving is for Giving Thanks</a> </span></span></span></span><span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"8L%2BUp%2BEWhnqwXluVz17gpGlNYelfh6aoj1ffqf0Zz3zPLCp0DIol%2BuSpCN%2FoIHmjgOHVX%2Fs%2F8utAowh7ovzaQnRpdAe6ObSIwYGgc%2BPAvOk%3D","asin":"0448422867"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">by Margaret Sutherland</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"8L%2BUp%2BEWhnqwXluVz17gpGlNYelfh6aoj1ffqf0Zz3zPLCp0DIol%2BuSpCN%2FoIHmjgOHVX%2Fs%2F8utAowh7ovzaQnRpdAe6ObSIwYGgc%2BPAvOk%3D","asin":"0448422867"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448422867/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448422867&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=3LY6LAOCTVNR5QZJ" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0448422867&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0448422867" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
What does it mean to be thankful anyways? This is a very thoughtful book which emphasizes the true meaning of the holiday.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Thanksgiving Books for Babies and Toddlers </h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here
are some high-quality board books perfect for even the youngest book
lovers. I've kept this list short on purpose. I have noticed that
children this age thrive on repetition and often are overwhelmed by too
many choices. So I have picked only the "best of the best" in
Thanksgiving books for toddlers.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"u%2Fzv4KQZsgvXWsaRDSQSobKS8PLym9OwqSwm8%2F5iEOQnaR1huxoBBkyPYxXwur2wEDk5zoIB4D%2Bjt%2FsoFo6cAMqxSqjDbL6u1mE7Elt1lHtoi5HIzy1T3Q%3D%3D","asin":"1442408073"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442408073/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1442408073&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=C23BSC67C5REJ2FT">The First Thanksgiving: A Lift-the-Flap Book</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Kathryn Lynn Davis</span><span class="a-size-small a-color-secondary"> Board book</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"u%2Fzv4KQZsgvXWsaRDSQSobKS8PLym9OwqSwm8%2F5iEOQnaR1huxoBBkyPYxXwur2wEDk5zoIB4D%2Bjt%2FsoFo6cAMqxSqjDbL6u1mE7Elt1lHtoi5HIzy1T3Q%3D%3D","asin":"1442408073"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small a-color-secondary"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442408073/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1442408073&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=C23BSC67C5REJ2FT" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=1442408073&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1442408073" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"u%2Fzv4KQZsgvXWsaRDSQSobKS8PLym9OwqSwm8%2F5iEOQnaR1huxoBBkyPYxXwur2wEDk5zoIB4D%2Bjt%2FsoFo6cAMqxSqjDbL6u1mE7Elt1lHtoi5HIzy1T3Q%3D%3D","asin":"1442408073"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small a-color-secondary">This
book explain the first Thanksgiving to even the youngest book lovers.
Toddlers will enjoy lifting the flaps while you read to them about the
first Thanksgiving. The sturdy pages will ensure that this book will
hold up to the wear and tear toddlers often put on books. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"u%2Fzv4KQZsgvXWsaRDSQSobKS8PLym9OwqSwm8%2F5iEOQnaR1huxoBBkyPYxXwur2wEDk5zoIB4D%2Bjt%2FsoFo6cAMqxSqjDbL6u1mE7Elt1lHtoi5HIzy1T3Q%3D%3D","asin":"1442408073"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small a-color-secondary"><span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"I3xxoVP%2F4ak30%2BenjdY6kPDMN%2FVc26Svkyk%2FGI%2FZbFheOccNbenIuuWuzsDRtDu2ghvH2n%2BgTfChkQipKJu6Ey9Ba%2B4s%2FWcX2pJi1zRW%2FYDmxA2N74EUcQ%3D%3D","asin":"0312518714"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312518714/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0312518714&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=AMJXLPN6VB5ASFOO">Bright Baby: Happy Thanksgiving</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Roger Priddy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"u%2Fzv4KQZsgvXWsaRDSQSobKS8PLym9OwqSwm8%2F5iEOQnaR1huxoBBkyPYxXwur2wEDk5zoIB4D%2Bjt%2FsoFo6cAMqxSqjDbL6u1mE7Elt1lHtoi5HIzy1T3Q%3D%3D","asin":"1442408073"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small a-color-secondary"><span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"I3xxoVP%2F4ak30%2BenjdY6kPDMN%2FVc26Svkyk%2FGI%2FZbFheOccNbenIuuWuzsDRtDu2ghvH2n%2BgTfChkQipKJu6Ey9Ba%2B4s%2FWcX2pJi1zRW%2FYDmxA2N74EUcQ%3D%3D","asin":"0312518714"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312518714/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0312518714&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=AMJXLPN6VB5ASFOO" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0312518714&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0312518714" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
is a great book for building vocabulary and teaching your toddler about
the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Roger Priddy combines
bright illustrations with "real life" photographs of the objects
children are like to see and experience during Thanksgiving. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"69um8INuGwUQXBpl3l6pgxaUEme5rKyBY1HlNVwDfqSePYawuq0XEdJkYFxa1e3o2NroBT56KBDe%2FQbPfKpQf3PSuOPZgAiL6ZNRsxiP1LA%3D","asin":"0448448572"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448448572/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448448572&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=QFJLJEKJXGVBBIP7">My First Thanksgiving</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Tomie dePaola</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"69um8INuGwUQXBpl3l6pgxaUEme5rKyBY1HlNVwDfqSePYawuq0XEdJkYFxa1e3o2NroBT56KBDe%2FQbPfKpQf3PSuOPZgAiL6ZNRsxiP1LA%3D","asin":"0448448572"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448448572/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0448448572&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=QFJLJEKJXGVBBIP7" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0448448572&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0448448572" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"69um8INuGwUQXBpl3l6pgxaUEme5rKyBY1HlNVwDfqSePYawuq0XEdJkYFxa1e3o2NroBT56KBDe%2FQbPfKpQf3PSuOPZgAiL6ZNRsxiP1LA%3D","asin":"0448448572"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">Tomie
dePaola's simple images and gentle text explain the history of the
holiday to toddlers. This book is very well done, and I even caught my
older children listening over my shoulder while I read this to my 2 year
old! </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"69um8INuGwUQXBpl3l6pgxaUEme5rKyBY1HlNVwDfqSePYawuq0XEdJkYFxa1e3o2NroBT56KBDe%2FQbPfKpQf3PSuOPZgAiL6ZNRsxiP1LA%3D","asin":"0448448572"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"CRBR7TWaoSaJ6zeaCi9137sgZwM4gRnzFIcHtsCztJydFuK3siTnem0FXrtx8XTB%2FZ25Ecu5LRH6i8ANWXIZp%2FqWvb8cepLfHGovpWJ9zu8%3D","asin":"0843114169"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0843114169/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0843114169&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=XJEUTGD5CUTOFGO">Five Silly Turkeys</a><span class="a-size-small"> by Salina Yoon</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"CRBR7TWaoSaJ6zeaCi9137sgZwM4gRnzFIcHtsCztJydFuK3siTnem0FXrtx8XTB%2FZ25Ecu5LRH6i8ANWXIZp%2FqWvb8cepLfHGovpWJ9zu8%3D","asin":"0843114169"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0843114169/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0843114169&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=C4LP7YQHZAGFHJ6A" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0843114169&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=httptheattach-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=httptheattach-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0843114169" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></span></span><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="a-list-item"><span class="a-declarative" data-action="fbt-checkbox-click" data-fbt-checkbox-click="{"itemNum":"1","offerListingID":"CRBR7TWaoSaJ6zeaCi9137sgZwM4gRnzFIcHtsCztJydFuK3siTnem0FXrtx8XTB%2FZ25Ecu5LRH6i8ANWXIZp%2FqWvb8cepLfHGovpWJ9zu8%3D","asin":"0843114169"}"><span class="a-label a-checkbox-label"><span class="a-size-small">Toddlers
will love the illustrations in this sturdy board book. Babies will
love grabbing hold of the shiny, tale feathers in the book. My two
year old loved counting down as we turned the pages and listening to the
rhyming text.</span></span></span></span></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This
is just a small list of the many fantastic books available on this
holiday. My hope is that this list will help get you started on
building your own Thanksgiving book basket.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
Cathy<br />
<br />
<b>Links I'm Attached To:</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><a href="http://1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com/2011/11/tot-school-pumpkins-again.html">Tot School</a></li>
<li><a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/2011/11/laid-back-school-preschool-corner-5k.html">Preschool Corner </a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<h1 id="EntityName">
<b><b><br /></b></b></h1>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-35293406319564163072015-03-26T13:48:00.002-07:002015-03-26T13:48:48.526-07:00Memoria Press Prima Latina: A Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">It was a cold day in February when the Memoria
Press cataloged arrived in my mailbox.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As many homeschoolers and teachers can attest,
February can be a rough month for teaching!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was suffering from a bad case of the “winter blahs”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">So, I have to admit that I felt quite enamored
when I first laid eyes on the Memoria Press catalog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was packed with full-color pictures of their elegantly
laid out curriculum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their
curriculum is so well designed that it makes giving your children
an academically rigorous, classical education seem feasible!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their curriculum was a ray of hope for
me in this cold month of February.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the cover of this catalog was a headline that really caught my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why Latin Is Not An
Option.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Hmmmm….Latin.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Memoria Press is known for
their quality Latin curriculum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So, after researching my options I decided to give their introductory
Latin course, Prima Latina, a try.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPxC6sW8LJwpmIzm-E-PUe7H8L7tnrhGeieEYs4xKewcrlOyBtUEOvL8JC38nqWK1B9Dpu_vpWYhwVpZnu8u59CkZUQotq7A6zPDl7pIkcH-ikHQRB967zuiVTHjqp0ovFNAkEy76lbIW/s1600/mpcatalog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPxC6sW8LJwpmIzm-E-PUe7H8L7tnrhGeieEYs4xKewcrlOyBtUEOvL8JC38nqWK1B9Dpu_vpWYhwVpZnu8u59CkZUQotq7A6zPDl7pIkcH-ikHQRB967zuiVTHjqp0ovFNAkEy76lbIW/s1600/mpcatalog.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
Latin?</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">If you had talked to me four year ago, I would
have considered teaching Latin a waste of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, it is a ‘dead language’, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wouldn't time be better spent learning <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">something</i> else...<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">anything</i> else? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">However, I have realized that I was wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VERY wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many more qualified people who have written
about the importance of learning and teaching Latin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can read <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/articles/why-study-latin" target="_blank">Cheryl Lowe’s response to that question</a>
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, check out the <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/articles/top-10-reasons-studying-latin" target="_blank">Top 10 Ten Reasons for Studying Latin</a> here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And, you can also read Susan Wise Bauer’s discussion of Latin in Chapter
9 of her book “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0393067084/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0393067084&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=BMMPSAMVHAAPB6SO" target="_blank">The Well Trained Mind</a>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Suffice it to say that I have changed my tune
when it comes to learning Latin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I really feel that Latin is important and worthwhile. There is a reason why Latin has been at the cornerstone of education in western civilization for so many years. It is REALLY a power-packed subject! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Overview of Prima Latina</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/latin/prima-latina" target="_blank">PrimaLatina</a> is Memoria Press’s introductory Latin course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is designed for kids in 2nd-4<sup>th</sup>
grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(See <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/kb/1530" target="_blank">Memoria Press’sideal Latin</a> sequence chart here.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The course is divided into 25 lessons, and each lesson takes about a
week to complete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found
that this gives the perfect amount of material to cover in a standard school
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parent-teachers will
have time to schedule review or take things slowly if they need to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will not feel rushed trying
to complete this course!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">This
course is a VERY thorough introduction of the Latin language. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, much more thorough than
other introductory Latin courses I researched.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
course objectives and student goals are written clearly in the beginning of the
book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Students will learn to
read, pronounce, and spell 125 Latin words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will learn 25 practical Latin expressions and 4 prayers
in full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I thought the prayers
were ESPECIALLY cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was sort
of “geeking out” over these.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Students also will expand their vocabulary by studying derivatives,
learn the proper names of constellations, and expand their grammar
knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
course comes with a number of components and optional supplements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These can be purchased individually or
in a package from <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/latin/prima-latina">MemoriaPress.com</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">For
this review, I was used:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina Student Book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Required)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina Teacher Manual <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(Required)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina Instructional DVDs (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Optional,</i>
but <u>highly</u> recommended by me!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina CD set (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Optional.</i> Nice
to have, but not essential <u>if</u> you have the DVDs.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina Copybook in New American Cursive (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Optional</i>, but highly recommended by me.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Latina Christianna I Flashcards (Optional)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">The
Prima Latina Lesson Plans (Optional.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Personally, I didn’t use this.) </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Pronunciation:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">If
you are new to Latin, you will soon learn that there are two main ways to
pronounce Latin:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Classical and
Ecclesiastial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Memoria
Press uses only the Ecclesiastical pronunciation (sometimes referred to as “Church Latin”.) This is the style of Latin used by the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roman Rite of the Catholic Church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I personally prefer this pronunciation. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">See <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/articles/short-history-latin-pronunciation" target="_blank">this article to read more about Latin pronunciation</a>. </span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Prerequisites:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">As
I mentioned before, the recommended age range for Prima Latina is 2nd-4<sup>th</sup>
grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Personally,
I would suggest that parents wait to start <a href="http://www.memoriapress.com/articles/latin-next-step-after-phonics" target="_blank">Latin instruction after theirchildren are reading fluently</a> and no longer struggling with the mechanics of
writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would focus the early years on
building a strong base in reading, spelling, and penmanship before introducing Latin. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Reading
fluency will happen at different ages for different children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For this reason, we decided to
hold off on Latin instruction until my oldest son was almost 9 years old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(He will be starting the 3<sup>rd</sup>
grade.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, my daughter is a
bit advanced with language skills and seemed ready to start much earlier in the
2<sup>nd</sup> grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once
your children can read a chapter book with little struggle and copy several
sentences with ease, I would say they are ready to start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Young children may have to divide the
lessons into smaller segments.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Having
some type of foundation in grammar was helpful, but not necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time we started Latin, my kids
had already completed<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339446/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1933339446&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=UDL5AOWNM5P45EMN" target="_blank"> First Language Lessons 1-2</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, they were already familiar with the basic parts of
speech.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grammar is
thoroughly taught in Memoria Press Latina, but I found having this knowledge base was
helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It allowed the kids to
concentrate on learning the latin.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">But I don’t speak Latin!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can I teach it?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">My
answer to this is:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Docedo
discitur.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or “One learns by
teaching.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am taking this
year as an opportunity to learn Latin along with my children, and I think this is the BEST
way to complete the course. Modeling a love for learning new things is one of the biggest advantages for homeschooling. I like to teach my children that learning something new should never end. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Prima
Latina is designed for the parent-teacher who has no previous knowledge of
Latin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The instructional DVDs were
VERY helpful in giving me the confidence I needed to teach the course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are an optional component of
the curriculum, but I wouldn’t want to use Prima Latina without them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Leigh
Lowe, a writer and curriculum developer for Memoria Press, teaches the courses
on the DVD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has a very
slight and charming southern accent, and her teaching style is both
entertaining and effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">But
heed my WARNING:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do <u>not</u>
expect to plug in these DVDs and have your children complete the student
workbook independently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prima
Latina is <u>not</u> designed to be an independent study in Latin!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parent involvement and instruction is
still expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So be
prepared to learn along <u>with</u> your children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I have a dear friend who made the mistake of attempting to let her students learn Latin independently. Things went well until they were about 18 weeks into the course. Suddenly her child needed help completing a translations, but she was unable to help because she hadn't been sitting in on the Latin lessons. She warned me not to make the same mistake, and to learn the language with my children. I think this is good advice. </span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Our Weekly Routine:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Prima
Latina comes with a Lesson Plan book that guides parent-teachers with using all
of the components of the program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, I found myself modifying their plan quite a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">I
think it is important when learning a new language to practice it as often as
possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For this reason, I
tried to allow about 10-30 minutes per day to study Latin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally, I tried to make
sure that I gave the kids an opportunity to practice the “Four Arts of
Language” everyday while learning Latin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The “Four Arts of Language” include:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1) <span style="color: red;">Listening</span>, 2) <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>, 3) <span style="color: #e69138;">Reading</span>,
and 4) <span style="color: blue;">Writing</span>.***<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Day
1</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>New Material and Copybook
<i>(25-35 minutes) </i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1) We would watch the DVD lesson together and follow
along in the student book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin) (20 minutes)</i></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Attached Mama's Tips:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parents should go through the lesson
with their child so they can learn the material too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, be
prepared to pause the DVD as needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Require children to repeat the vocabulary, phrases, or prayers when
prompted so they practice speaking Latin. My children had a tendency to sort of passively watch these lessons, so I needed to remind them to interact with the instructor from time to time.</span></i></div>
</blockquote>
2) Next I would have them complete the Prima Latina Copybook lesson independently. I would check this when they were finished. <span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: blue;">Writing</span> Latin) (10-15 minutes depending on how much I could get my child to focus!)</i></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglY00_SMDP5rExBmfd3RZrFZl8CX1OcI-2SEt8yZBH3t4IlcWW8gw0mnHyT2WpUOf4cIdc1mI8mxgUirCcxdfYlRGM8sTRRXyVzrspBa7N9cNNf_vnfKz0ucQC5aUohFBOIiGz9_shCInt/s1600/copybook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglY00_SMDP5rExBmfd3RZrFZl8CX1OcI-2SEt8yZBH3t4IlcWW8gw0mnHyT2WpUOf4cIdc1mI8mxgUirCcxdfYlRGM8sTRRXyVzrspBa7N9cNNf_vnfKz0ucQC5aUohFBOIiGz9_shCInt/s1600/copybook.jpg" height="640" width="522" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prima Latina Copybook in "New American Cursive"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Day
2:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Review and
Workbook (20-30 minutes)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1) I would review the vocabulary, derivatives,
and prayer using book, white board, and CD </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin)</i></span>. (10 minutes)</i></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Attached Mama's Tip:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i>The CD pronounces words for those who don’t feel comfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I found I could usually
remember how to say the words if I had practiced the day before. This helped me save time. I didn't have to worry about dragging out the CD player and finding the right track. </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
</blockquote>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDLSBQS1-GDMZGMqT71l_1INy8NXrNWrAMStfXqs3A7AxjnhicLcC2DZbgAPzuqpjjeM1_zrzOssBUITvBdkvqo26X5DWlw3tEYXGKIXt3Lz-MdDq1x4_SIoidz24AF1VYg-n-fx5BWyN/s1600/student+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDLSBQS1-GDMZGMqT71l_1INy8NXrNWrAMStfXqs3A7AxjnhicLcC2DZbgAPzuqpjjeM1_zrzOssBUITvBdkvqo26X5DWlw3tEYXGKIXt3Lz-MdDq1x4_SIoidz24AF1VYg-n-fx5BWyN/s1600/student+book.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prima Latina Student Book- Students can read along with me as I review vocabulary on the board</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2) The kids would then complete the first page in their workbook. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin, </i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: blue;">Writing</span> Latin</i></span>)</i></span></i></span> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>(10-20 minutes)</i></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Attached Mama's Tip:</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><u>Some</u> of these questions can be done orally if you are working
with a child who is very young or doesn’t like to write.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I would suggest having the child write the Latin phrases and words though. This helps them remember how to spell these words.</span></span></i></div>
</blockquote>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKay5XVPbMKzX6Nl4URJ0RjPve88-q0vEw5MHAjYp3oE4V9ualBxyCmxkCPG-OSFLTqR6SPe-qw49tWagIblS76RKIi453DT752oKhEXcPvOlGebs94hLCdObl5C44KutYr9rZv-EKP3Dd/s1600/student+book2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKay5XVPbMKzX6Nl4URJ0RjPve88-q0vEw5MHAjYp3oE4V9ualBxyCmxkCPG-OSFLTqR6SPe-qw49tWagIblS76RKIi453DT752oKhEXcPvOlGebs94hLCdObl5C44KutYr9rZv-EKP3Dd/s1600/student+book2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prima Latina Student Book-I would typically have them do half of the exercises on the second day.</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Day
3:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Review and Workbook (20-30 minutes)</span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1) I review vocabulary, derivatives, and prayer
using book, white board, flashcards, and CD </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin</i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>) (10 minutes)</i></span></i></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">2) </i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The kids would then complete the second page in their workbook. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin, </i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: blue;">Writing</span> Latin</i></span>)</i></span></i></span> </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>(10-20 minutes)</i></span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Day
4:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Quick </span>Review (10 minutes)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1) I would review vocabulary, derivatives, and prayer
using book, white board, and CD </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin</i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>) (10 minutes)</i></span></i></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i></i></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Day
5:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">1) </span>I review vocabulary, derivatives, and prayer using book, white board, and CD </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: orange;">Reading</span> Latin, <span style="color: red;">Listening</span> to Latin, <span style="color: #38761d;">Speaking</span>
Latin</i></span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">) (10 minutes)</i></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2)
I would dictate 10 English translations and the kids would attempt to
spell the Latin word on a white board. I would always do the 5 new
review words and pick 5 words from previous lessons. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(<span style="color: blue;">Writing</span> Latin)</i></span> (10-15 minutes)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">--OR--</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">I would have the kids take one of the online "<a href="http://quizlet.com/subject/prima-latina/">Quizlet.com</a>" tests to review. </span><br />
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The Attached Mama's Tip</span></i>: <i>You
can use the optional flashcards to review vocabulary too. But I would
typically flip back to previous lessons in my teacher guide and randomly
pick 5 words to review. Any word they could spell correctly, I would
put a check next to it. This helped me keep track of how many times I
had reviewed the word. Any word they misspelled, I would put an "x"
next to it. This told me I needed to keep practicing the word. Using the workbook was easier for me than handling the flashcards personally. I may start using the flashcards in the higher levels of Memoria Press Latin so I can review from multiple levels. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">**The
“Four Arts of Language” is a term I first heard Andrew Pudewa use in his talk
“Nurturing Competent Communicators.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Listening and Speaking are the verbal components of
language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reading and writing are
the written components of language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Listening and reading are the two main ways we input language, and
writing and speaking are how we typically output language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need practice in all four components
when learning a language. </span></div>
<br />
<b>Final Thoughts:</b><br />
I was surprised by how much I liked Prima Latina. It is a quality, no-nonsense program that is easy to teach and learn from. <br />
<br />
<i><b>Disclaimer: </b> I received a free copy of this product in exchange for my <u>honest</u> review. I was not required to write an honest review, and I was not compensated in any other way. All of the opinions expressed in this blog post are my own. </i><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-65712652077849698982015-01-31T08:25:00.000-08:002015-01-31T08:26:36.580-08:00A Day in the Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0m0rMuSH01blMYnsB73si1kJN5kIw6nXpEl163dAqVAiunb5oANTFt5jUrzdnUs-KS4gDwXzB4aCbWI9kVFh1yStVU0I_8DbicUYFrRnt1n8UVL5K04Vs-ekvvlVQDOfJ5haVGcdgd7Za/s1600/A+Day+in+the+Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0m0rMuSH01blMYnsB73si1kJN5kIw6nXpEl163dAqVAiunb5oANTFt5jUrzdnUs-KS4gDwXzB4aCbWI9kVFh1yStVU0I_8DbicUYFrRnt1n8UVL5K04Vs-ekvvlVQDOfJ5haVGcdgd7Za/s1600/A+Day+in+the+Life.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
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In my last post, I talked about <a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2014/11/our-curriculum-2014-2015-2nd-grade.html" target="_blank">the curriculum</a> we are using
this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you first
glance at that list, it seems like a LOT of stuff to cover.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One person commented and asked me
how I fit it all in a day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I
thought I would show you what the typical day looks like for our family this
year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep in mind that our
schedule and family routine changes often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the seasons, nap times, and ages of my children all
change—so does our day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>BUT—for those who are curious, here is what a typical “day in the life”
looks like for our family right now.
</div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
6:00AM </h2>
I stumble downstairs and start making coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m up a bit earlier than normal
thanks to my cat who has been scratching at the door all morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grrrr…
<br />
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My plan is to grab a few minutes of quiet before the kids
wake up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hear Joseph, our
1 year old, stirring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dear
husband gets him back to sleep buying me a few precious minutes to drink my
coffee in quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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For a few weeks, I <u>was</u> waking up early and working out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That hasn’t been happening lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make a mental note to start
working out again (someday…but not today) as I sip my coffee and enjoy the quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
6:30AM<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></h2>
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Sophie, our 6 year old, stumbles out of bed early.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I try to
convince her to go back to sleep. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Its still dark out!” I say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Why don’t you try to go back to sleep?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Instead, she goes and wakes up Marcus (8 years old).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I quickly gulp my coffee down in an
attempt to keep up with my now WIDE-awake children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day is starting whether I like it or not.</div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
6:45AM-8:00AM<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Breakfast and Showers</span></h2>
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By this time, Joseph is awake too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all go upstairs to get our showers and get dressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marcus is talking to my husband
about super heroes and Joseph is toddling around our bedroom playing with my
shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sophie decides that she wants to dress in a ninja costume for the day. And I say, "Sure!"</div>
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Soon, we are dressed and ready for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all head downstairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I warm up an egg casserole for our
breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I have pre-made
breakfast, snacks, and lunches on grocery day so I don’t have to cook in the morning.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joseph is eating at his high
chair while Marcus, Sophie, and I eat at the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doug, my husband, is packing up his breakfast and lunch
to take to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I look over
and notice that Joseph is purposely dropping most of HIS breakfast on the floor
saying, “UH-OH” with each plop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s very cute, but also very messy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also make a note that his clean outfit is now
COVERED with egg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mental
note:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>don’t dress the baby until
after breakfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
8:00AM Cleaning & Memory Work</h2>
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We’ve recently started this new habit where we clean our
house every morning before school starts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t know how long this will last, but it seems to be working really
for us right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like
starting the day with a somewhat clean house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It helps us all to focus better without clutter laying
everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus, I just FEEL
better when the house isn’t so chaotic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
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On this particular day, I realize that we went to bed with a
sink full of dinner dishes---so things are really bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also realize that Joseph has dropped not only his
breakfast on the floor, but most of his dinner from last night is still stuck to the floor. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I let out a long sigh and decide its time to get to work. I also ask myself if it is time to get a dog. Maybe that would help keep the floor cleaner? </div>
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I fire up my ipad and play on our memory work playlist on
our <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004E0ZLZQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004E0ZLZQ&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=6EYZ6KS7EVNKF6A3" target="_blank">kitchen speaker</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Our memory work playlist comes from several sources:</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b>Poetry:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.iew.com/shop/products/linguistic-development-through-poetry-memorization-book-cds" target="_blank">IEWsLinguist Development Through Poetry Memorization </a></li>
<li><b>Grammar:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lists
and definitions from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339497/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339497&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YBOQUT7WBH2YEJNR" target="_blank">First Language Lesson CD</a></li>
<li><b>History Sentences:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I made up a couple of my own songs to help us memorize some events,
people, and places from our history studies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I simply recorded these into <a href="http://www.apple.com/mac/garageband/" target="_blank">garage band </a>and saved them to a
playlist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t sing, but the
kids don’t seem to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of
our history sentences also come from the <a href="http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/cycle1audiocds.html" target="_blank">Classical Conversations CD</a>.</li>
<li><b>Science Sentences</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our science sentences also ‘mommy made’ songs saved in a play list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also use some songs from
Classical Conversations.</li>
<li><b>Bible:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bible
memory verses and lists come from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-artist=Seeds%20Family%20Worship&linkCode=ur2&search-alias=music&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=FIZUKQG4KPDRQMID" target="_blank">Seeds Family Worship</a> and the <a href="http://www.biblestudyguide.com/" target="_blank">Bible Study for all ages CDs</a>.</li>
<li><b>Timeline: </b> This year we are memorizing the ancient <a href="http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/clacfahitiso.html" target="_blank">history timeline</a> from Classical Conversations as well. </li>
</ul>
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Next, we all sing and dance around to our memory work
songs while we get the house clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is multitasking at its best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I assign jobs as I see things that need to be
done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all work together on any
given room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That way I can watch
them and make sure things are done correctly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also helps us to feel better about a job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things can seem overwhelming to a 6
year old when you send them off to clean a room by themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we are ALL working to get a
room clean, things don’t seem as bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Many hands make light work!” I remind the kids.
</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Even Joseph
grabs <a href="http://www.montessoriservices.com/brooms/angle-broom-1507" target="_blank">his little broom</a> and tries to help out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> He sees us all working and singing every morning and just assumes that is what he should do too.</span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
9:00AM<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Poetry,
Grammar, and Writing</h2>
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By this time, we’ve made a good dent in the kitchen, the family room, and
our dining-room-converted-to-a-school-room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve also
planned dinner, started a load of laundry, and rebooted the dishwasher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The house is still not completely
clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, my “rule” is that
we stop cleaning at 9AM whether we are finished or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know how things are at your
house, but we could work on the house all day and still keep finding things to
do!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I have to have a hard
stopping point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>School is our main
priority.</div>
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We start the day off with a quick grammar lesson from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339454/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339454&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=KXMXT2XEUYO5GDZY" target="_blank">First Language Lessons 2</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The instructors
guide tells us to review memorized poetry today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So I have the kids practice their <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043QTDNM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0043QTDNM&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=AWUQUYDPKIHKJF2F" target="_blank">IEW poems</a> instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I just like the IEW poetry choices SO
much better.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ham it up and recite the poems with lots of gusto followed by heavy applause from the "audience". </div>
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Next, we recite the
definition of an adjective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We then move onto some grammar copywork. Copywork is a "workhorse" subject in our house. I use it to teach penmanship, spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, and writing. I have the kids copy a sentence into their copywork notebooks from a book they
are reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I take out their book and select a sentence on the fly.) We then review the
definition of a noun, pronoun, verb, and adjective and the kids take turns
finding those in their copywork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> They circle each one in a different color.
</span>Joseph is sitting at the school table trying to “do school” too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is scribbling happily with a pencil
on paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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After that, I split Marcus and Sophie apart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Today happens to be what we call </span> “Marcus’s Special
Day.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(The two older kids taking
turns having a "special day" where they get to go first in various things. On Monday, our next school day, it will be Sophie's "special day".)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Before I work with Marcus,</span> I give Sophie her independent
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is practicing the
<a href="http://teachmejoy.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=5" target="_blank">cursive h</a> and copying another sentence from “<a href="http://brookdalehouse.com/charlotte-mason-method-and-write-from-history/" target="_blank">Write from History</a>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today it is a sentence from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1475142226/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1475142226&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YDYLUTJK7H7APBL3" target="_blank">JamesBaldwin’s 50 Famous People</a> called “<a href="http://www.mainlesson.com/display.php?author=baldwin&book=people&story=dolphin" target="_blank">Saved by a Dolphin</a>”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Marcus and I head over to the couch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I read him the same story (“Saved by a
Dolphin” by James Baldwin.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He then
he narrates the story back to me <a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/blog/the-charlotte-mason-method-of-narration/" target="_blank">“Charlotte Mason” style</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Basically, he tells the story back to
me in his own words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I challenge
him to use his <b>best</b> storytelling skills.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I write his narration down while he watches.</div>
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Meanwhile, Joseph has discovered that someone left the
crayon box within his reach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
happily takes the crayons out and throws them on the floor one at a time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> He then finds some blank copy paper and starts ripping that to shreds. </span>I ignore this as it is keeping him
quiet and busy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"Fine motor skill development," I think as I laugh to myself. </div>
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Sophie finishes her
copywork and plays in the room with Joseph for awhile while Marcus finishes up his narration. My oldest son is quite the storyteller and has a knack for copious narrations. </div>
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Yesterday, Sophie narrated <u>her</u> version of “Saved by a
Dolphin” while Marcus did the copywork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(They alternate days.) So today, I have each child stand up and read their own version of the
story with as much enthusiasm as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Elocution)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While one person reads, the rest of us
practice being good audience members and listening attentively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of each
story we clap wildly and hold up "pretend" perfect 10 score cards. Joseph has given up his paper shredding activity and decided to join us on the couch for all of this clapping fun. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
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Next, I look at Sophie’s copywork and praise her for the things
that she has done well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Wow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What beautiful handwriting! I like how you made sure each letter sat right on the line.” I
say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also give her some very
specific feedback on things that she can work on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Did you notice that you forgot the word ‘led’?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next time you are doing copywork
periodically stop and read what you are writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That will save you energy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She goes back to fix her copywork while Marcus does <u>his</u>
cursive h paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Joseph needs a diaper change…and I realize it is 10AM
already.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wow!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day is getting away from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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10:00AM Snack and Read Aloud</h2>
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We always break at 10AM for a snack no matter where we are in school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used to send the kids in the kitchen
to fix their own snack whenever they were hungry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I realized that the kids
weren’t making the best food choices when I did this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kitchen was also in a constant state of disarray because
someone was always cooking and eating something all day long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SO—now, we are breaking and eating as a
family for all meals and snacks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We all eat the same thing for snack which means less dirty dishes. This is perhaps not the most efficient use of time, but it is working for us at
the moment. </div>
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Snack today is some carrots, snap peas, and dip that I made
on grocery day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Food prep REALLY
saves me time during the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I make most of our breakfasts, lunch, and snacks on the weekend and package them up in our refrigerator. This way all
of our food is convenience food (even real food!) because it is all prepared
ahead of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marcus
and Sophie get everything out of the fridge while I get Joseph buckled into his
high chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The kids and I also start eating while I find our current
read aloud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> ("Hmmm, where did I put that book?") </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right now we are
reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064401480/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064401480&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=EDOYAPSBPI2IDDRS" target="_blank">Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> It is part of the <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/read-alouds-b.html" target="_blank">Sonlight Core B Read Aloud package</a>.
</span>Sophie runs downstairs to our playroom get her toy keyboard and brings it to the kitchen
table. While she is doing that, I fire up my laptop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few months ago, Sophie got this idea to make our own "homemade" audio books from the books we are reading. We are big audio book fans. I let the kids pick a new audio book from audible each month. However, she decided that she didn't like to wait that long for a new book. "Mama," she said, "Why don't we make our OWN audioboks when you read us books? You can read the books, I can make the introduction music, and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Marcus can do the sound effects!" </span></div>
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So, every
time I read a book to them, I record it using <a href="http://www.apple.com/mac/garageband/" target="_blank">garage band</a> on my laptop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (It is very easy to do.) Each chapter from our books has a LOT of introduction music played by Miss Sophie.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She doesn’t know how to play, but that doesn’t stop her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I record these books with all of our
family’s imperfections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, you can
hear Joseph yelling for more dip while I read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can also hear us frantically trying to wipe up some milk that has been spilled. On some days, you can hear people
interrupting to ask questions. You can also hear laughter at the funny parts, and mommy's voice shaking when I read a sad part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
homemade audio books are certainly not professional quality, but they wind up being the kids
most favorite things to listen to. I'm sure they will be a wonderful keepsake of our family time in the years to come. </div>
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10:20AM<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reading
1</h2>
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We have finished our chapter of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064401480/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064401480&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=EDOYAPSBPI2IDDRS" target="_blank">Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle</a> and we do
a quick clean of the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Besides some extra family time, another bonus of eating our meals together is that I can "police" the cleaning of the kitchen after meals. :) We do a QUICK 4 point clean in this order: 1) dishes, 2) clear table/counters, 3) wipe table/counters, 4) sweep floor. This goes by pretty quickly. Many hands really DO make for light work. I also try to teach the kids to do every job the best that they can and with a good attitude. In our house, we try to make each task fun. For meal clean up, we have a competition to see whose wipe is the dirtiest after wiping the table and counters. We pause to judge our wipes. Sophie has won again! Drat! We all challenge her to a rematch as we sweep the floor. Who can get the biggest pile of dirt! It might sound silly, but it does make a menial job of cleaning more fun. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joseph has dumped a lot of
his snack on the floor (again!) while I was reading, but we quickly forgive him when he
grabs his little broom and tries to help clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What can I say? He is just too cute!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I change Joseph’s clothes (again) because they are covered in 'dip' and take him into our playroom with
Sophie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sophie plays with Joseph
while Marcus reads to me first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Remember, it is his "special day" so he gets to go first.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He reads a story, and then we switch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Sophie
reads to me while Marcus plays with Joseph.) This year we are reading <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/readers-2.html" target="_blank">Sonlight's Grade </a>2 readers. These books are seriously great!</div>
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11:00AM Math</h2>
After reading, we start right math. We are using <a href="http://www.singaporemath.com/Primary_Math_s/21.htm" target="_blank">Singapore for Math</a>, and I LOVE it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Math is by far my kids favorite subjects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I teach a quick lesson on
multiplication using the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1887840605/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1887840605&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=NS6X5TEHYGCQZ3H" target="_blank">Singapore math home instructors guide</a> and some math
manipulatives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joseph is with us
playing with the manipulatives too and very happy that he is included in our
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using manipulatives helps teach the lesson in a very concrete manner. This way they understand (conceptually) exactly what is happening in math. They aren't just learning a procedure to solve number sentences. They understand exactly what those number sentences represent. <br />
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Next, I work a few example
problems on the board from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9810184999/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=9810184999&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=BP4O6JCIOLWYV5FC" target="_blank">text book</a>. This helps take the concrete idea taught previously and translate it to the way we write out math problems. Finally, I give the older kids their assignment in the
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9810185014/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=9810185014&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=J4UMKQDLTIFDJT5R" target="_blank">workbook</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I have them do this work independently so I can see if they understand. </span>Both kids tend to catch on to math very quickly. So, they race through a
lesson on multiplication and swear that multiplication and division are
“easy”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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While they are doing their math work, I quickly race around our
school room picking up the crayons, paper scraps, and math manipulatives that Joseph has
scattered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The key is to clean up faster than he can make the mess.<br />
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When the kids are
finished, we grade our papers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sophie loves this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She says
that she wants to be a math teacher when she grows up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marcus tells me that he is still
planning on being a ninja, but may teach math at nights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(“Wouldn’t it bet the opposite?” I
wonder silently to myself. I decide to keep quiet.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sophie
gets her marker and draws BIG blue check marks next to every answer she got
right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marcus draws slightly
smaller yellow check marks next to his answers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the kids miss a problem, we work it together on the board
and fix their mistakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end, Sophie gives herself a
“star plus, plus, plus, plus” grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Marcus draws a picture of Pikachu and says that he got a “Pikachu plus”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(He is really into pokemon at the
moment.)
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11:30AM<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Spelling</h2>
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We put our math notebooks away and they take out
spelling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yesterday we did an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935197053/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935197053&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=WZINB3KNVST4BSMJ" target="_blank">All About Spelling lesson</a> on the board with the alphabet tiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> All About Spelling uses what is called an <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/orton-gillingham-approach" target="_blank">Orton-Gillingham</a> approach to teaching spelling. It is very "hands-on" and incorporates all of the senses when teaching spelling. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Today, they are working on spelling plural
“silent e” words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>First, I dictate some vowel combination sounds and they write them on their paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, I dictate 12 words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These words are mixture of their actual
spelling words and words they have missed in their regular writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(One of the benefits to homeschooling is individualized instruction. I target their lessons to cover the exact material that they need help with instead of wasting my time teaching stuff they already know.) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
the 12 words, I dictate 3 sentences that they write.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Dictation is another "work horse" subject. I can teach so many things through just a short dictation exercise. While they are writing their sentences, </span>I make note of any words they had trouble with and we will
practice them again the next school day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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12:00PM Lunch</h2>
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At noon, we break for lunch as a family. Once again, we like to all sit down together at the table to eat. We are having leftovers from our dinner last night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TACOS!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marcus and Sophie argue over who gets to use the microwave first
while I strap Joseph into his highchair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I try to intervene and remind them about patience and thinking of
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I think I am being
ignored, but I try anyways to bring peace to the squabbling kids.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Joseph is yelling, “CHOC-O-LATE!” at the top of his lungs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I know what <i>HE</i> wants for
lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I give him a taco
instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Sometimes I use our lunch period to read a book of poems for fun. We have been going back and forth between some funny <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060572345/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0060572345&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=B274SSFSPUZD6DBT" target="_blank">Shel Stenvenson poems</a> and some more traditional poems from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1905236565/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1905236565&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=W3XVBIWP6CZN6ONP" target="_blank">Barefoot Book of Poetry</a>. We consider poetry the 'cotton candy' of language. We read and recite them for fun and enjoy the sound and cadence of the language. Poetry is not just something we memorize, it is something we savor. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">However, today, </span>I decide to put the poetry on hold for this meal. I am starving myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we all
just sit together and eat and chat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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12:30PM Reading 2</h2>
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After lunch, we do our quick 4 step clean. (This times Marcus wins in the competition!) As we are cleaning up, t<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>he mail man comes and
delivers a package.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is some
excitement while the kids tear it open.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“OH, it is just some used writing book that mom ordered on amazon.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (At least I am pleased with the delivery.) </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">I have the kids each read to me for another 15 minutes or so. (I divide up the time so they don't get too tired.) Reading is our priority number 1 subject this year. So I devote a lot of time to hearing them read out loud. I really want to make sure they are strong, fluent readers before they head into the third grade. Next year, writing will be our priority number 1 subject. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">In the afternoon, they read the same story they read in the morning so we can work on fluency and expression. </span></div>
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1:10PM Geography and Bible</h2>
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I look up at the clock and realize that I let time get away
from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">The kids each take a short break while the other is reading. </span>Marcus has built some new <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NHQHXGS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NHQHXGS&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=7RBKTH76JNVIJM75" target="_blank">bionicle</a> contraption and
brings it to the table to show me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sophie is bragging to me about how good she is getting at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007Q1IO4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0007Q1IO4&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=FK4LZNYKDLQFYBXG" target="_blank">chess</a> (when she
plays herself).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t help chuckling. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
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The kids pull out their geography notebooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0974140104/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0974140104&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=D5Y7BIVUYFZKL7BM" target="_blank">Visualize World Geography</a>
(just the older book, not the DVDs) to learn all of the countries in
Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I purchased this book used for around $20, and it has been one of my FAVORITE homeschooling purchases. It is very light, fun, quick, AND (most importantly) effective. </span> </div>
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Today we are learning
where Kenya is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We quickly review
all of the previously learned countries by pointing to them on an outline
map.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then we quickly review all of
the previously-learned flags by pointing to them as I call them out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Finally, I introduce the new country and we locate it on the map.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids quickly draw and color Kenya’s
flag and review all of the previously learned countries and flags again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Geography is finished in less than 7 minutes flat! How great is that? </div>
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Next we do bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The kids and I have been using “<a href="http://www.biblestudyguide.com/grades-1-2.php" target="_blank">Bible Study for All Ages</a>” and we LOVE
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sing a song that helps us
memorize the “12 sons of Jacob”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
ask the kids some review questions and we teach the new lesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lesson finishes with some map work
on ancient Egypt and some time line labeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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1:30PM Content Subjects</h2>
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We save the afternoon for most of our 'content subjects'. We all look forward to these subjects. These subjects are the 'dessert' of our homeschool day. We work on content subjects 4 days per week. On Monday and Tuesdays, we read about our science
topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On Thursday and Friday, we
read about our history topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Wednesday afternoon is reserved for our co-op.) We don't read boring text books to study these topics. We read REAL, living books about these subjects. The books are what make these subjects so interesting.</div>
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Today is Friday, so we are reading about History.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year we are studying ancient history. So, I read to the kids a chapter from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339004/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339004&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=DDSNKCRIT4WDNK56" target="_blank">Story of the World</a> about
the Phoenicians while the kids eat another snack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Seriously, the are always eating!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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For this snack, the kids are eating some guacamole chips and fruit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Joseph happily smears guacamole all over his hair and purposely drops some fruit on the floor. "Uh-oh!" he says with a big smile on his face. (As you can see, I have to choose my battles when it comes to homeschooling with a 1 year old! At least he is content and quiet I remind myself.)</span></div>
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After I finish reading, the kids start asking me if there will be a new "Phoenician Memory Work" song.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I make a mental list that I need to write and record this sometime this weekend. I will have to channel my inner weird Al Yankovic for this tasks. Maybe my son will be some sort of Dido parody....hmmmmm? Again, I can't sing to save our work, but the kids have fun with these memory songs. It really helps them keep the topics and people we read about straight in their mind. </span>I will later add our new song to our memory work
playlist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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After snack, we quickly clean the kitchen. I get Joseph wiped down and change his clothes while I ask them review questions from the Story of the World Activity guide. We do this game show style where each kid tries to buzz in to answer. (Multitasking at its best again!) After we finish cleaning up, the kids go back to the school room and take out their history notebooks. They draw a picture
of what they learned in their history notebooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I then have them each narrate a sentence or two while I copy
it into their notebooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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We
are also doing some more mapwork today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The kids color their map according to the Story of the World activity
guide instructions and paste it into their notebooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
2:00PM Socialization and Electives</h2>
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I am running late with school today. So, as the kids are working in their history notebooks, I start packing the car to go out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> We have chess club today at 2:30PM, so I have to hurry so we aren't late!</span></div>
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Our afternoons
are reserved for socialization, playing, and relaxing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We go out with friends about 2-3
times per week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rest of the
days we relax at home. My children are both extroverts, so they enjoy lots of time out of the house with friends. </div>
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We have several
weekly and monthly engagements that make up a large portion of our learning and (mixed with plenty of playtime). I try to schedule everything for 2PM or later so we still have time to get school completed in the morning. </div>
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I am lucky that I live in an area where there are more homeschoolers than you can shake a stick at! It would be possible for me to schedule some fun, educational homeschool event EVERY second of the day. Seriously, there are that many things going on. (And no, I don't take that for granted!) Really, the most difficult <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">thing for me is learning to say no to some of these events so we can get in our important subjects. It is so easy to fall into the trap of over scheduling yourself!</span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Today we have Chess Club. Chess Club is a new group I started to give the kids an opportunity to practice their chess game. We meet at a local library meeting room with a bunch of the kid's friends. We play some friendly games of chess. I use the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1904600069/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1904600069&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=5SRCYULQZQTZOUE6" target="_blank">Chess for Children</a> to go around the various tables to give the kids some challenge exercises to work out. But mostly, this is just a fun, indoor thing for the kids to do in the winter. It is also a great activity for developing logic and thinking skills.</div>
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After everyone has played each other, the kids naturally put the chess boards away and spend the rest of the afternoon playing with their friends. We walk around the library together and pick out some books. Another benefit to homeschooling is the strong family friends we have all made. I enjoy spending time with the other mothers just as much as the kids enjoy spending time with the other kids. It is good for all of us!
</div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
5:30PM Back Home</h2>
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Back to today….</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>We roll back
home at 5:30PM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids are
busy talking non-stop about the things they did with their friends today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are planning their birthdays
(which are more than 6 months away!) and who they are going to invite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I start hanging up coats and putting
everything away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our house is a
mess again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Can you even tell we
cleaned for an hour this morning?)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So I rally the forces again to do a quick clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
6:20PM "Daddy's Home!"</h2>
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Doug gets home from work a bit late today because of traffic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kids tackle
him when he walks in the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I convince them to let their Daddy up so he can change his clothes and put down his bags. </div>
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Then, the kids start playing a rowdy game of “ring around the rosey”. Joseph keeps squealing, “FALL DOWN!” at the end in his little baby voice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I am cooking dinner, but I stop to just watch the kids for a second. All three of them are holding hands and dancing around the family room singing. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">For just a moment, I am able to take a glance at my life with a little perspective. It seems like JUST the other day, I was holding baby Marcus in my arms. Now he looks so big and grown up. Sophie and Joseph are growing and changing so fast too. I <i>know</i> that I am going to close my eyes and blink and my children are going to be teenagers too old for a game of "Ring Around the Rosey". I <i>know</i> that I am going to blink again and they will be out of the house. It is crazy how fast life happens to us, you know? I realize that I am living some of the BEST days of my life right now. THESE are the days that I will look back on and remember someday when I am old and gray. I am so incredibly thankful that I get to spend these days with my children. I don't want to miss a moment of this life I am living. As I watch my children all playing together, I am so incredibly thankful that homeschooling has instilled such close family bonds between us all. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doug and I finish up dinner together while we talk about our days. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Life is good.</span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
7:15PM Dinner</h2>
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We (finally) sit down for dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are eating later than normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've been on this "health kick" since the new year which means I have to wash and chop about a million vegetables every time I cook dinner. </div>
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The kids tell dad all about their chess club.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> He asks him what else we did that day. Sophie says, "We are making a new audio book!" Marcus starts into a long speech about the history of the Phoenician people. (That kids never forgets anything he hears me read!) And Joseph purposely plops some more food on the floor and says, "Uh-Oh!"</span></div>
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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
8:00PM Bed Time</h2>
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We get the kids teeth brushed and send them off to bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is still Marcus’s special day, so he
gets to pick the audio book tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He picks <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HNCMW0E/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00HNCMW0E&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=SCZ4JBQ4K2S54J4Z" target="_blank">“How to Train a Dragon” read by David Tennet</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Its really good!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Someday soon, they will probably both want to listen to our "Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle" homemade audio book. But it isn't finished.</div>
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We tell Sophie and Marcus that they can
stay up until 8:45PM playing, reading, and listening in their room as long as
they go to sleep at 8:45PM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I secretly like for them to stay up listening to great books like this. So I am perhaps a little more relaxed about bedtime compared to most parents. </div>
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Doug and I head head downstairs to watch some TV together. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I nurse Joseph to sleep while we talk about our day. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We both relax together after our long day. The day is over
and tomorrow is the weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yeah!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-405407601735563332014-11-01T17:05:00.002-07:002015-01-31T08:36:46.321-08:00Our Curriculum: 2014-2015 (2nd Grade)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Many of you are probably wondering if I am still homeschooling. The answer is YES! Homeschooling is going wonderfully! The kids are thriving academically, socially, and emotionally. And I can honestly say that I <u>love</u> being apart of their education. <br />
<br />
Homeschooling <u>does</u> make for busy days---which is why this blog has gone neglected. However, I thought I would sneak away for a bit and talk about our curricula choices for the school year.<br />
<br />
Marcus is 7 and in 2nd grade. Sophie is 6 and <i>technically</i> in first grade....but she insist on keeping up with her older brother. Here is a look at the materials we are using. To see what all of this looks like in practice, make sure and check out my "<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2015/01/a-day-in-life.html" target="_blank">Day in the Life</a>" post. <br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Reading</u> </h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0982678533/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0982678533&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=WLLH4J4ANXMLSCVZ" target="_blank">I See Sam Readers Set 3 </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0982678541/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0982678541&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=34IL3MFA6NO7V2UA" target="_blank">I See Sam Readers Set 4</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/098267855X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=098267855X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=KZ6PNXJEHGBWEFZ4" target="_blank">I See Sam Readers Set 5</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0982678568/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0982678568&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=D4FXJCVRW2WNER7N" target="_blank">I See Sam Readers Set 6</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sonlight.com/rewards/DH20271164" target="_blank">Sonlight Grade 2 Readers</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYodfU7RhDNMXseO-pJxcMB-qmmP1GqdDIT3Fiq6SnHc8PZMfEGxuGb1rzmmS1mLTc0AkexSWvL4UuLlJH5NQiWVCALW2wr0t72XJh077zVN22qaS1cGgzoMXBzX_S2UbPzWzliV9ji7Au/s1600/readers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYodfU7RhDNMXseO-pJxcMB-qmmP1GqdDIT3Fiq6SnHc8PZMfEGxuGb1rzmmS1mLTc0AkexSWvL4UuLlJH5NQiWVCALW2wr0t72XJh077zVN22qaS1cGgzoMXBzX_S2UbPzWzliV9ji7Au/s1600/readers.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We started out the year using All About Reading level 2. We had used AAR Pre-level 1 (which I love) and Level 1 in past years. However, after REALLY giving the program a chance, I decided that it wasn't the right reading program for me. (I hope to write a review of WHY this program didn't work for us in the future. It seems no one hears from people who tried AAR and didn't like it.) <br />
<br />
We ended up switching to the I See Sam readers on a whim---and I am SO glad I did. The program has been incredibly effectual for my children. It has raised their reading by two grade levels in a short 6 month period!! Plus, it has made learning to read fun again. I highly recommend those books. <br />
<br />
Our plan right now is to finish up the first 6 sets of the I See Sam books. (We are almost done with set 5 now.) Then, we are going to continue on with the Sonlight Grade 2 readers to help build fluency and increase their self confidence in reading.<br />
<br />
By that time, the grade 2 readers will probably feel easy for Marcus and Sophie. But that is OK! I approach reading the same way I do <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/readers.html" target="_blank">training for an athletic event</a>. Sometimes we push ourselves and read books that are very challenging. Other times, we want an easier read so they can learn that reading can be fun and relaxing too. My ultimate goal is to raise children who LOVE to read. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingMQ28pRqJwHLM5VH05l47428GjbOaKb3IodvyIi9Lyc-OEu7VYqhawcfureXPwePQa8N-ZvSflF1V1WtUT-YX6FotLS1gv5nuc1gkYadM6VtfnjSeNgGGYgNLN6HBcU8cB3Xjkh2Lvmn/s1600/AAS+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Spelling</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://allaboutlearningpress.net/go.php?id=1040" target="_blank">All About Spelling 2</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingMQ28pRqJwHLM5VH05l47428GjbOaKb3IodvyIi9Lyc-OEu7VYqhawcfureXPwePQa8N-ZvSflF1V1WtUT-YX6FotLS1gv5nuc1gkYadM6VtfnjSeNgGGYgNLN6HBcU8cB3Xjkh2Lvmn/s1600/AAS+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingMQ28pRqJwHLM5VH05l47428GjbOaKb3IodvyIi9Lyc-OEu7VYqhawcfureXPwePQa8N-ZvSflF1V1WtUT-YX6FotLS1gv5nuc1gkYadM6VtfnjSeNgGGYgNLN6HBcU8cB3Xjkh2Lvmn/s1600/AAS+2.jpg" height="283" width="320" /></a></div>
We used All About Spelling 1 last year, and this year are continuing on with All About Spelling 2. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_jcA8zWHWEyLMYyAte-rslfiFsEzNRfoQfk0iAP-_bGiMCyOyfu9kcmGyx4CceBudktAQxjVLGyYsMRqF4J2669244LwQCo7aOKA-yylmJq3opv40xdajam7DIHO-55BqfPi0iqVr9n_/s1600/fll+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Grammar</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339454/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339454&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=ZTQO3VF3ZESY3GAU" target="_blank">First Language Lessons 2</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_jcA8zWHWEyLMYyAte-rslfiFsEzNRfoQfk0iAP-_bGiMCyOyfu9kcmGyx4CceBudktAQxjVLGyYsMRqF4J2669244LwQCo7aOKA-yylmJq3opv40xdajam7DIHO-55BqfPi0iqVr9n_/s1600/fll+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_jcA8zWHWEyLMYyAte-rslfiFsEzNRfoQfk0iAP-_bGiMCyOyfu9kcmGyx4CceBudktAQxjVLGyYsMRqF4J2669244LwQCo7aOKA-yylmJq3opv40xdajam7DIHO-55BqfPi0iqVr9n_/s1600/fll+2.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></div>
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We finished up level 1 of this series in first grade, and are continuing on with level 2. These books are pure genius in that they manage to teach some very challenging grammar concepts in a very gentle and systematic way. <br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Writing</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339292/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339292&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=76KMOQJQSDL54ACL" target="_blank">Writing With Ease 2</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dbHZNre14q8tH5jaOgeReSe3asMzYdstzfaXqhf4mtTPa56npVUoDNeQHfcwNff9_qY7tX11hU8xzMOGkprOVWvlR93q7j5y8QTFjHzfPWGRWVeJ7AXnXTS8abZY9If3pRfPvTuAhPdS/s1600/wwe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dbHZNre14q8tH5jaOgeReSe3asMzYdstzfaXqhf4mtTPa56npVUoDNeQHfcwNff9_qY7tX11hU8xzMOGkprOVWvlR93q7j5y8QTFjHzfPWGRWVeJ7AXnXTS8abZY9If3pRfPvTuAhPdS/s1600/wwe2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Another continuation we have from last year is the Writing With Ease program. We finished WWE level 1 last year, and have started WWE 2 this year.<br />
<br />
I can't say that I LOVE this program because there are some things about it that annoy me. However, I haven't currently found anything I like as well for these early elementary years. Plus, I do love how the writing instruction is broken into very small incremental chunks. And I feel strongly that any child who completes WWE will have a strong foundation for later writing instruction. For those reasons, we keep plugging away with this program.<br />
<br />
My current long term plan is to continue on with WWE until we finish level 3 in third grade. At that point, we are going to do a year of <a href="http://iew.com/shop/products/student-writing-intensive-level" target="_blank">IEW</a> to practice some stylistic techniques and outlining. After IEW, we will probably start to use a writing program based on the <a href="http://classicalacademicpress.com/writing-rhetoric-1/" target="_blank">progymnasta</a>. (There are so many great options that I haven't picked one.)<br />
<br />
UPDATE: I decided to take a break from WWE for awhile and have started using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1940282012/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1940282012&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=IUGCJCWPCJYZBT7O" target="_blank">Write from History</a>. It contains many of the stories that I *want* to read to my children about history anyways. We still continue the basic narration, copywork, and dictation model of teaching writing at this age. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOr1RAMP_0evNiiwO5nLjY0pc78IUjMqRyFmi2D7ZrYxox6xV9vRaPXI6xhINTuOy4kr3DxiBo5Z80kxXldXbFo8u-6B3RSyLCuyExboiG4H73pCc6jI6cQy7NIhgKzxAITfAyEIbSH7Z/s1600/Write+from+History.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOr1RAMP_0evNiiwO5nLjY0pc78IUjMqRyFmi2D7ZrYxox6xV9vRaPXI6xhINTuOy4kr3DxiBo5Z80kxXldXbFo8u-6B3RSyLCuyExboiG4H73pCc6jI6cQy7NIhgKzxAITfAyEIbSH7Z/s1600/Write+from+History.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Handwriting:</u><u><br /></u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cursive using <a href="http://teachmejoy.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2" target="_blank">Joy of Handwriting</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVw0yI3FSXa17FU3prPQ8qRfw7S_pz2LgIqeOmL69zqPElYwAUsXYGIxSGzSYUfJPmUbte6Yb02ajamU_WtjfGXfn5soLsXXhGVGUmor5yMBk56sLL99ZNVv_OpOUKw5RNectY6DgL4vNt/s1600/joyofhandwriting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVw0yI3FSXa17FU3prPQ8qRfw7S_pz2LgIqeOmL69zqPElYwAUsXYGIxSGzSYUfJPmUbte6Yb02ajamU_WtjfGXfn5soLsXXhGVGUmor5yMBk56sLL99ZNVv_OpOUKw5RNectY6DgL4vNt/s1600/joyofhandwriting.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a great, budget friendly handwriting program that I highly recommend. Marcus has always had some fine motor delays, but is picking up beautiful cursive handwriting thanks to this program. So it really works well!<br />
<br />
Next year we will continue doing basic cursive <a href="http://www.welltrainedmind.com/why-do-copywork-and-dictation/" target="_blank">copywork</a> (for practice) and learn to type.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Poetry</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://iew.com/shop/products/linguistic-development-through-poetry-memorization-book-cds" target="_blank">IEW's Linguistic Development Through Poetry Memorization</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ_RKNoT_Ru5mkTd3kmNSD-I7_xsLkdFZCkRE7D6Mp6T8fTSH8jSx2LXu4ciMA0lc1b107sX17jUMHUDzU-5uBp3uz27QtKIt4fOHlcZNWTXvrtMg8fWDpVfB6aYN0w_DizMgufaercX9/s1600/poetry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ_RKNoT_Ru5mkTd3kmNSD-I7_xsLkdFZCkRE7D6Mp6T8fTSH8jSx2LXu4ciMA0lc1b107sX17jUMHUDzU-5uBp3uz27QtKIt4fOHlcZNWTXvrtMg8fWDpVfB6aYN0w_DizMgufaercX9/s1600/poetry.jpg" height="320" width="279" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Math</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001LQSMI4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001LQSMI4&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=AEAWM33TNR5CWXKD" target="_blank">Singapore 2A and 2B (US Eddition)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://xtramath.org/" target="_blank">Xtra Math</a></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8271xmX8gj391S37NH8bsjVLawX4gmf0wZ9h_mbL-tiL5SLmJzLyTMve0v4fzvEJA1AvkcGxQwaDHWT0HFEtB-BEGfsmybiiK5r4qtAbyQhoE2gqR7qvR1nE0vy1OESOm_L4rZ_Qa7VN/s1600/singapore+math.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8271xmX8gj391S37NH8bsjVLawX4gmf0wZ9h_mbL-tiL5SLmJzLyTMve0v4fzvEJA1AvkcGxQwaDHWT0HFEtB-BEGfsmybiiK5r4qtAbyQhoE2gqR7qvR1nE0vy1OESOm_L4rZ_Qa7VN/s1600/singapore+math.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
One change we made from last year is our math curricula. Last year we used Math Mammoth 1A & 1B. The kids thrived in that program, and I highly recommend it. (Both tested in the 97th and 98th percentile in math compared to peers across the USA.) So we didn't switch from Math Mammoth because we didn't like it. HOWEVER, I believe that Singapore math is just slighly more academically rigorous than even Math Mammoth. It is just a really, really strong math program.<br />
<br />
My kids LOVE math--and the <a href="https://www.sonlight.com/singapore.html" target="_blank">Singapore method</a> challenges them so they don't become bored. So this is a switch I am glad we made. <br />
<br />
<u>History:</u> <i> (2 times per week)</i><u><br /></u><br />
Ancient History using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339004/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339004&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=GTRADODPD2E7VDZD" target="_blank">Story of the World Volume 1</a> with Activity Book and Audio Book<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Science</u><i> </i></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(2 times per week + 1 day for labs)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0976605732/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0976605732&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=5XV343YYG3YAW4QL" target="_blank">R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey, Earth and Space, level 1</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Supplemented with LOTS of Science books</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt356Zan-58T0wD-gOh6iFjNcBrz2Zn546_5i9EOTgZvX79WS3EcDO8nsCtI2hVQA5SY0CuvCyfsMOd0ye5wBKYZ_qg8yUEXIBC6tepcuc1KZFskDch2TShFqBdE9Mvx7W25Cy4Oql32ZX/s1600/RSO+Science.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt356Zan-58T0wD-gOh6iFjNcBrz2Zn546_5i9EOTgZvX79WS3EcDO8nsCtI2hVQA5SY0CuvCyfsMOd0ye5wBKYZ_qg8yUEXIBC6tepcuc1KZFskDch2TShFqBdE9Mvx7W25Cy4Oql32ZX/s1600/RSO+Science.jpg" height="320" width="248" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXhatj4lx2BuDRddZlKoIEsv58Z-uRGjhqOZ1VsCPPEqzw6QGdUnx_Jgp2QnrsKFQ4JOgiejoTgMr3HYUuu-AXidSV2X-RkjLabWtZgXMA5uvFgPp-UspYGYSk1w-_tKzlE1_tzmU5Sp4/s1600/IMG_0109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXhatj4lx2BuDRddZlKoIEsv58Z-uRGjhqOZ1VsCPPEqzw6QGdUnx_Jgp2QnrsKFQ4JOgiejoTgMr3HYUuu-AXidSV2X-RkjLabWtZgXMA5uvFgPp-UspYGYSk1w-_tKzlE1_tzmU5Sp4/s1600/IMG_0109.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>History</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339004/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339004&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=YLWUFSEDIUIOI743" target="_blank">Story of the World Volume 1 (Ancient History)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339055/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339055&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=V3P6IP4BJ35KY4UB" target="_blank">Story of the World Activity Book 1</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933339047/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1933339047&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=INUYNHR4JTKQWGHE" target="_blank">Story of the World Volume 1 Audio Book</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXAsWOtIMqhkMHAFn67shjLd_2lXYitS-uwCtQRT8z734R0zmAFF07q_sBTLfE_efynTiP2aHQcOfRqE0img-OcWMBamqDWG9utn3xkD7JDjG55QGI2uKKDWzHoUjYBpOIb85YQKxyw4A/s1600/story+of+the+world.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXAsWOtIMqhkMHAFn67shjLd_2lXYitS-uwCtQRT8z734R0zmAFF07q_sBTLfE_efynTiP2aHQcOfRqE0img-OcWMBamqDWG9utn3xkD7JDjG55QGI2uKKDWzHoUjYBpOIb85YQKxyw4A/s1600/story+of+the+world.png" height="233" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another change from last year is our history curriculum. Last year we used Sonlight, but this year we are using Story of the World. We love studying history with this book. </div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Read Alouds</u></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7e6dYdvPPygaWE8g3vuplku0mNHOVBeCA5oQC7w7Q-09dioCg0MdAUGKUHeOpBvPEocx-4pmWCYvwH87ODymB59Zf9NUBAwpZkL9guj_PbududXevhWYPDiUgtQTCvlDGJfsukCj5gywC/s1600/IMG_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7e6dYdvPPygaWE8g3vuplku0mNHOVBeCA5oQC7w7Q-09dioCg0MdAUGKUHeOpBvPEocx-4pmWCYvwH87ODymB59Zf9NUBAwpZkL9guj_PbududXevhWYPDiUgtQTCvlDGJfsukCj5gywC/s1600/IMG_0111.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
One thing that we loved about our Sonlight days were their read aloud choices. Reading good quality literature aloud is still a HUGE part of our day. However, this year I made my own read aloud list. AND....what can I say? I love my picks! ;) I hope to be able to share my schedule in a future blog post. <br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Nature Study</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/store/outdoor-secrets/" target="_blank">Outdoor Secrets</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/store/the-outdoor-secrets-companion/" target="_blank">Outdoor Secrets Companion</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0gnACEixHJvRQ9NKvjCQG41yCPdhSKCquGwagpQc_xD3YwZMShSt6mH4-G6skN9fLW12pH3PWAeur6TUfpyFBlviwnBWryulDyy48KQTZ_obj4M5nk7x3eRHLYc_fpExC5zarmMgOMHj/s1600/outdoor-secrets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0gnACEixHJvRQ9NKvjCQG41yCPdhSKCquGwagpQc_xD3YwZMShSt6mH4-G6skN9fLW12pH3PWAeur6TUfpyFBlviwnBWryulDyy48KQTZ_obj4M5nk7x3eRHLYc_fpExC5zarmMgOMHj/s1600/outdoor-secrets.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Fine Arts</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.artisticpursuits.com/" target="_blank">Artistic Pursuits Early Elementary Book 1 (K-3)</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasriKVyyCpzxnqpJ4Y0wxHnGZb-i1tdCEODeXcFoea53dZIhg9k8rVWUnS5BG4s3ihjTTdHrnpBJwIGdlYJUwN6mnyU3wqzAEc5ywFo42dfFgC-UCJ6noQcLRQpydsceqV5pZK8MneREJ/s1600/artistic+pursuits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasriKVyyCpzxnqpJ4Y0wxHnGZb-i1tdCEODeXcFoea53dZIhg9k8rVWUnS5BG4s3ihjTTdHrnpBJwIGdlYJUwN6mnyU3wqzAEc5ywFo42dfFgC-UCJ6noQcLRQpydsceqV5pZK8MneREJ/s1600/artistic+pursuits.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?ii=1245816&c=ib&aff=285563&cl=211139" target="_blank">SQUILT: Music Appreciation (Vol. 1 Baroque Era)</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&i=1245816&cl=211139&ejc=2" target="_blank"></a><br /></span></b></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-32594424466654925422014-10-17T15:30:00.000-07:002014-10-26T04:20:58.423-07:00Wrapsody Stretch-Hybrid Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcHKjJo01y8BYYiVfyFW3R8nO1AgEaEMkzKTNFjrZD2hKGrhX6eM5giTgPusP6HG02TWJWCCoD4XKn47FDiRYipnAD4lAj9QN7s5xkblTWGw-5ln1eu-abq4wuBR5q0LDKfhSR8FstvLB/s1600/image1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcHKjJo01y8BYYiVfyFW3R8nO1AgEaEMkzKTNFjrZD2hKGrhX6eM5giTgPusP6HG02TWJWCCoD4XKn47FDiRYipnAD4lAj9QN7s5xkblTWGw-5ln1eu-abq4wuBR5q0LDKfhSR8FstvLB/s1600/image1.jpg" height="640" width="564" /></a></div>
<i><b><br /> </b></i><br />
<i><b>The following review was written by guest blogger Jennifer Marple. </b></i><br />
<br />
I recently tried out the <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/shop/stretch-hybrid/stretch-hybrid-chronos/" target="_blank">Wrapsody Stretch-Hybrid: Chronos</a> from my local babywearing group’s lending library. I own a <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/breeze-wrap/" target="_blank">Breeze (gauze) wrap</a>
from the same manufacturer, and have tried other traditional stretchy
wraps and wovens, and was interested in how the hybrid stretch would
compare. I was looking to evaluate how it worked with a slightly older
baby (about 6 months old and 15 lbs), and in particular how it faired
with back carries, which I’ve become comfortable with just in the last
few months.<br />
<br />
Stretchy wraps in general are designed to be very soft and comfortable, with no diggy fabric or buckles, straps or buttons. The <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/stretch-hybrid/" target="_blank">Wrapsody Stretch-Hybrid</a>
specifically is intended to be used up to 35 lbs on front hip or back.
This is one of the key differentiators between this and more traditional
stretchy wraps, which are intended for front carries only. My
understanding is that any back carry with more than one pass across the
baby is safe with this carrier, so I was able to use my growing woven
wrap repertoire in my experiments.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiA9gnKElUIjcQfvYpk0yZSfPBp9T_IyEFQZwvBmTGsepo3dI391biBk8zvzj3H2NfE5Ik7rVdLDOXmLWgegQP8zU_CG6OtHeiyqiTclbQoU3dHDV1wqFUMIiV0u_6T9JzXutj-kAGN8C/s1600/image2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiA9gnKElUIjcQfvYpk0yZSfPBp9T_IyEFQZwvBmTGsepo3dI391biBk8zvzj3H2NfE5Ik7rVdLDOXmLWgegQP8zU_CG6OtHeiyqiTclbQoU3dHDV1wqFUMIiV0u_6T9JzXutj-kAGN8C/s1600/image2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The fabric seemed a bit thinner than other stretchy wraps I’d tried, but
stretches less freely, which is what allows it to be more supportive at
higher weights. This is a one size fits all wrap, and the tails are
tapered in a way that makes it not bulky when tying the ends around
after wrapping baby.</div>
<br />
I found the <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/stretch-hybrid/" target="_blank">Wrapsody Stretch-Hybrid</a>
to be supportive and comfortable for my daughter, in front and back
carries. It was no warmer to wear than my favorite heavy-ish cotton
woven wrap, and almost as supportive. It was not “diggy” in the least on
my shoulders, as most wovens can be if you’re not very precise with
your wrapping job. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_xlom1sI85InO-3uGum74AVpOuDUH7qzuR4D7Gxn1c3DKGHkGIQiQ2pivduXbsnShhy4yGbeXkV1zZyZgCuPx2XYH-YVrz2Kk9L-cOpAiCMvq2bwcJicQ4iMWShNTKoQgMq8jy8y4bzl/s1600/image3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_xlom1sI85InO-3uGum74AVpOuDUH7qzuR4D7Gxn1c3DKGHkGIQiQ2pivduXbsnShhy4yGbeXkV1zZyZgCuPx2XYH-YVrz2Kk9L-cOpAiCMvq2bwcJicQ4iMWShNTKoQgMq8jy8y4bzl/s1600/image3.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
Overall, I was pleased at how the <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/stretch-hybrid/" target="_blank">Wrapsody Stretch-Hybrid</a> performed for us. If a friend was having a baby and interested in babywearing, I would definitely recommend it over other stretchy wraps, due to the versatility of being able to use it for hip and back carries, and get better support at higher weights. For me, I’m already too far down the woven rabbit hole, and we will not be having any more squishy newborns in our house – but I would really enjoy helping a friend learn how to carry their little one in this wrap, knowing that it could last them the full duration of their babywearing time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Pros:</b><br />
Easy to care for the fabric<br />
Several color and pattern choices to suit different styles (mostly patterns, not solids)<br />
Can pre-tie before leaving the house keeps the wrap out of parking lot puddles<br />
Can also be used with hip or back carries<br />
Comfortable for wearer and baby<br />
No complicated sizing<br />
No rings, buckles or straps to dig like a soft-structured carrier or ring sling<br />
More affordable than a woven wrap<br />
No significant bounce, even with a larger infant<br />
<br />
<b>Cons:</b><br />
Thicker than a gauze wrap, can be warm in summer<br />
No sizing can mean excess fabric for some wearers, depending on carries chosen (but tapered tails help with this)<br />
More expensive than a traditional stretchy wrap<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>NOTE: <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/shop/" target="_blank">Wrapsody</a> donated the <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/product-category/stretch-hybrid/" target="_blank">Wrapsody Stretch Hybrid</a>
Carrier to our local babywearing lending library in exchange for this
review. The views expressed in this review are Jennifer's own and were
not influenced by this donation. Our community whole-heartedly thanks <a href="https://wrapsodybaby.com/shop/" target="_blank">Wrapsody</a> for their very generous donation. </b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b><i><b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2452927/?claim=v65gy6hy736">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></b></i> </b></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-68158854266855290082014-10-15T15:00:00.000-07:002014-10-15T15:00:03.663-07:00Boba Wrap Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b><i>The following review was written by guest blogger and
fellow "Attached Mama" </i></b><b><i><b><i>Jennifer Marple. </i></b></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3PQEKgDYUQ8XDQKVQ5rBRKi1C76PLYCn5muHSkQ6x1O98RzNnhRVOm_W50En-hHhzHZU6L8VnuXjrWa9zaBjXLaq7i26sZXwBcltg7oLJrnhoz5EwKACCA6_E8tq7Hl8dkwbGYG37IxPu/s1600/image5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3PQEKgDYUQ8XDQKVQ5rBRKi1C76PLYCn5muHSkQ6x1O98RzNnhRVOm_W50En-hHhzHZU6L8VnuXjrWa9zaBjXLaq7i26sZXwBcltg7oLJrnhoz5EwKACCA6_E8tq7Hl8dkwbGYG37IxPu/s1600/image5.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I recently tried out the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a> (orange) from my local babywearing group’s lending library. I’d previously used a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005SP2LWW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005SP2LWW&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=OOWYFPTNSZXIFIAX" target="_blank">Moby</a> and a Sleepy Wrap in exactly the same color, which I learned was the former name of <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a>, as well as more recently some <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002MZZLDC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002MZZLDC&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=6VFPLSU2SLLEG23L" target="_blank">woven wraps</a>.
It had been some time since I last used the Sleepy Wrap, having passed
it along to another mama before my daughter was born, so I was looking
to evaluate how it worked with a slightly older baby (about 6 months old
and 15 lbs).<br /><br />Stretchy wraps in general are designed to be very soft and comfortable, with no diggy fabric or buckles, straps or buttons. The <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a> specifically is intended to be used with newborns up until 18 months for weights 7-35 lbs. The <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap’s</a> fabric is different from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005SP2LWW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005SP2LWW&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=VIVKNY42JHG2L57N" target="_blank">Moby</a>,
having more of a jersey knit type texture – there’s a definite right
and wrong side. To me, the fabric seems to make the difference in being
able to use this wrap with a larger-than-infant size baby. Having
experience with both this style of wrap and woven wraps, I did not
experience much difficulty in getting the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a>
on and baby into it. I did have to tighten it up the first time, as I’d
forgotten just how much stretch there was and to not leave slack. My
daughter seemed very comfortable and cozy in it, and enjoyed several
wrap naps during my borrowing period.<br /><br />When I tested the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a>,
it was the hottest time of the year where I live, and I was taking
frequent walks while babywearing, at a pace intended for exercise. So,
it was hot, and the thick fabric isn’t exactly breathable and cooling,
but it wasn’t any hotter than my favorite cotton woven wrap, and was
more comfortable than my slightly cooler gauze wrap. I was walking at a
pretty good speed when testing this wrap, and I found that my daughter
“bounced” in the Boba more than I was accustomed to. Not quite to a
level where I was concerned of any danger, but much more than I
experience on a day to day basis with a woven wrap. She is heavier than
I’d ever used a stretchy wrap with in the past, but still 20 lbs below
the top end of the recommended weight range the manufacturer listed. She
didn’t seem bothered by it, but I did find it distracting and impacting
on my personal gait/balance. When walking at a more leisurely stroll I
did not experience the bounce. I also know that this was not an issue
with my son when he was a newborn using this same wrap under the old
branding.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4E0IHKLmGt_QFaSPlJ6_Tm-zbxRLseth-SuWhoXciP88MLvBBcom1HIwwtnpFmBuja2JGvRIr5ChYaU6ybQ8Z1sUPJOleSzIJktIOT2Dpkb4tC-F08wf2DIDFaoTE87UNM70QF5nvYRe/s1600/image6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4E0IHKLmGt_QFaSPlJ6_Tm-zbxRLseth-SuWhoXciP88MLvBBcom1HIwwtnpFmBuja2JGvRIr5ChYaU6ybQ8Z1sUPJOleSzIJktIOT2Dpkb4tC-F08wf2DIDFaoTE87UNM70QF5nvYRe/s1600/image6.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
Overall, I was surprised at how well the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap</a> did with my 6 month old, as I’d never considered using a stretchy wrap past 2-3 months of age. It’s a great option for a comfortable, affordable babywearing solution from birth on – though I still do not think I’d recommend it much beyond perhaps 8 months, not into toddlerhood as Boba’s site states is feasible. <br /><br /><br /><b>Pros:</b><br />Easy to care for the fabric<br />Easy to store (comes with a storage bag)<br />Several color choices to meet each person’s preference (mostly solids, a few prints)<br />Pre-tie before leaving the house keeps the wrap out of parking lot puddles<br />Comfortable for wearer and baby<br />No complicated sizing<br />Simple instructions, less learning curve than woven wraps<br />No rings, buckles or straps to dig like a soft-structured carrier or ring sling<br />Affordable<br /><b><br />Cons:</b><br />Thick, heavy, can be warm in summer<br />No sizing means lots of excess fabric for most wearers<br />Not as supportive for larger babies (allows a lot of sag or bounce past the infant stage)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><i><b>NOTE: Boba donated the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-carrier/" target="_blank">Boba Wrap Carrier</a> to our local babywearing lending library in exchange for this
review. The views expressed in this review are Jennifer's own and were
not influenced by this donation. Our community whole-heartedly thanks
Boba for their very generous donation. </b></i><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-2919981464412826372014-10-12T07:41:00.004-07:002014-10-12T08:48:56.364-07:00Boba Carrier 4G Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b><i>The following review was written by guest blogger and fellow"Attached Mama" Kate Burgener. You can check out Kate's website at </i></b><i><b><a href="http://www.kateburgener.com/">www.kateburgener.com</a> </b></i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFkBN0yii_NGWX3ipXdNZLjCU5U4KufN2IZz4agCF3Ec05IPHBjQpOagwIR24dhyphenhyphenAfdKzGOM5cDWpSptOpN-9pXGSez9Dq1FJwEmZ5MHJ2KRuMO500qrt_XaPG8fVYxmizc4GhfSAttuJ/s1600/Boba+4G-Main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFkBN0yii_NGWX3ipXdNZLjCU5U4KufN2IZz4agCF3Ec05IPHBjQpOagwIR24dhyphenhyphenAfdKzGOM5cDWpSptOpN-9pXGSez9Dq1FJwEmZ5MHJ2KRuMO500qrt_XaPG8fVYxmizc4GhfSAttuJ/s1600/Boba+4G-Main.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a>When an opportunity to review a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baby_sling#Soft_Structured_Carriers" target="_blank">soft structured carrier</a> (SSC) came along, I was pretty excited. At that point, my husband and I had only used a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007ZT99LK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007ZT99LK&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=274RFLINA6J2RJDO" target="_blank">Moby</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IDD2YFK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00IDD2YFK&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=MFMVOWNUZWE2HAOG" target="_blank">a ring sling</a>, and a borrowed <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Q9SDG4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004Q9SDG4&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20&linkId=U4QP555PRNAGWE3F" target="_blank">mei tai</a> with our son Henry. We loved wearing him, but we were interested in something that would come together a little faster. Having zero experience with a SSC, I envisioned clipping the carrier around my waist, popping Henry into the seat, and away we'd go. I expected the straps to be kind of "set it and forget it," which appealed to me. The ring sling required all kinds of minute adjustments, and I didn't always feel as if I had him seated just right. What could be easier than a SSC?<br />
<br />
I got the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-carrier/" target="_blank">Boba 4G</a> model to review because I had a 3 month old. The <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-carrier/" target="_blank">Boba 4G</a> comes with a nifty infant insert that I was eager to try. A leader from our local babywearing group patiently walked me through the finer points of the carrier. We clipped the waist belt on me, and she showed off the neat elastic loops for rolling excess straps up and getting them out of the way. Next came the infant insert. The infant insert had a moon-shaped little spot for a baby bottom to rest allowing the legs to be supported. After snapping it in and testing Henry in it, however, it became apparent that my long, skinny, cloth-diapered kid was already WAY too tall for it. You are supposed to have the baby's head within "kissing distance"--however Henry was withing teeth-bashing distance! So, my local babywearing group leader suggested we try the carrier without the infant insert.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9BGlCz8HE_pUYAZeGyimYpSc_r34XeFPiXqRNfMmzXDRSHa_gGOT0pF7zJks17f0v7U4R3YaAW8r5Da45hXcHCrnqn5ooMc4dWQA1q-Jrg4BbTrRzilvqQvq-qjDb6FCmqbssMV_iM0y/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-12+at+9.37.33+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9BGlCz8HE_pUYAZeGyimYpSc_r34XeFPiXqRNfMmzXDRSHa_gGOT0pF7zJks17f0v7U4R3YaAW8r5Da45hXcHCrnqn5ooMc4dWQA1q-Jrg4BbTrRzilvqQvq-qjDb6FCmqbssMV_iM0y/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-10-12+at+9.37.33+AM.png" height="184" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Boba 4G Carrier Infant Insert: Instructions for a newborn hold can be found <a href="http://www.boba.com/support/boba-instructions/baby-carrier/newborn-hold-instructions/" target="_blank">here</a>. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What surprised me most was that after getting into the carrier and arranging Henry, I'd be adjusting the shoulder straps each time. Not what I was expecting from a SSC! (Not a drawback, just not what I had pictured.) A few more tips from my local babywearing group leader, and we were on our way with our brand-spanking-new carrier to test out!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uLLWadZlGrDEsA4jEERVpaEMLjzAd3qK2DDTDeLFSJjh9W0DzoznzDKp6fRjqZciKRjkkuTzcgmEKwca0Xu8Nj9Izk4Qj5res6UR7DFAwU2y2GzH5OWKh_RiPeUKFuz7xQxo-ERFdCGQ/s1600/Boba+4G-Front+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uLLWadZlGrDEsA4jEERVpaEMLjzAd3qK2DDTDeLFSJjh9W0DzoznzDKp6fRjqZciKRjkkuTzcgmEKwca0Xu8Nj9Izk4Qj5res6UR7DFAwU2y2GzH5OWKh_RiPeUKFuz7xQxo-ERFdCGQ/s1600/Boba+4G-Front+View.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrier Adjusted From Front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first thing I should say about the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-carrier/" target="_blank">Boba 4G</a> (and I have no previous models to compare it too, please remember), is that I was surprised at how soft it was. Again, I hadn't explored any other SSC, but I kept expecting them to be kind of like backpack canvas. The Boba 4G carrier material was downright cozy. The fabric turned out to be a magnet for cat hair, but a good lint-rolling from time to time would keep you presentable if you cared about that sort of thing.<br />
<br />
The second feature I noticed (which ended up being my favorite part and
is now non-negotiable for future SSC purchases) was the napping hood.
Henry desires to be in arms at all times. (I mean, a little less now,
but still isn't happy with more than 15 minutes of alone time.) This
started to get super difficult after the various grandparents and
relatives were back home and my husband and I were left to the task of
figuring out how to get the kid to sleep during the day. Carrier naps
became our go-to for mid-day naps, if only to give our arms a break.
Plus, let's face it, snugly napping is awesome, even if that means the
wearer doesn't get a chance to take a nap themselves. However, as Henry
got more aware of the world, it became harder and harder for him to
relax and nap in a carrier. The napping hood allowed him to still peek
out if he needed to, but provided a much darker and less stimulating
environment for him to drift off in. Because he was in front-carries
only, his little head was usually leaning against our chests, so the
hood was less about support for us. We made sure we could peek in and
keep an eye for an open airway, even when the hood was up. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthVlkTh0_AuT97b_41sOGwM9zPj_RigPzmKP6JNIVo0NLiObR_gwpFkiWovqamARablvCuoAqkjxi6oUJtqxD5AtRXSuvqMGwctdArcmnno7HfKvSkGNQqh-B5qUtWfNoYocFgW5UCSxx/s1600/Boba+4G+sleep+hood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthVlkTh0_AuT97b_41sOGwM9zPj_RigPzmKP6JNIVo0NLiObR_gwpFkiWovqamARablvCuoAqkjxi6oUJtqxD5AtRXSuvqMGwctdArcmnno7HfKvSkGNQqh-B5qUtWfNoYocFgW5UCSxx/s1600/Boba+4G+sleep+hood.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaks0p5dPFk24E5rDqQ8JPGMd4xvDMMrrj0kaI07r98GMTWMC-0bYNxcb-GzsiORSrvXFq06GmucJvIgSj2RTKHQIQ1Hay9RlHBbFoZSHBZGg6ZAnw1UM3hKa99KdwFXkmAoYiExxGPI6/s1600/Boba+4G-Dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaks0p5dPFk24E5rDqQ8JPGMd4xvDMMrrj0kaI07r98GMTWMC-0bYNxcb-GzsiORSrvXFq06GmucJvIgSj2RTKHQIQ1Hay9RlHBbFoZSHBZGg6ZAnw1UM3hKa99KdwFXkmAoYiExxGPI6/s1600/Boba+4G-Dad.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henry Naps Happily on Dad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another thing that we loved about the carrier was that Henry just felt super secure in it. When he wriggled in the ring sling, I would get nervous that he'd give an especially mighty kick and knock the seat out. With straps and buckles, I felt confident that he wasn't going anywhere. I picked a little basil from our garden while wearing Henry and I felt much better about bending down to reach things than I do with the sling. My husband and I also both found it faster to use, even with the strap adjusting, and would have made it a go-to style for quick trips if we were keeping it. The way the weight distributed on our shoulders was also great, wearing our son for a few hours was easy, with the padded waist belt providing extra support. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvdDks2pJcd24Pe7vQ9_lN9oByi4o-438hZcMc7YaiPPDQP7dCZ9wtqEbf2nc3zMlFzOJBoZtAkExYdQ644jbpC5BFTlA4JTG0aS22mjZT1HZPif__E5n4quXPUi57CTwsHRvpyarIajV/s1600/Boba+4G+and+Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvdDks2pJcd24Pe7vQ9_lN9oByi4o-438hZcMc7YaiPPDQP7dCZ9wtqEbf2nc3zMlFzOJBoZtAkExYdQ644jbpC5BFTlA4JTG0aS22mjZT1HZPif__E5n4quXPUi57CTwsHRvpyarIajV/s1600/Boba+4G+and+Flowers.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Henry Helps Mama in the Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My husband and I did find a few drawbacks to how the Boba 4G fit, at least for us. We're both pretty tall people, so this could entirely be a torso-length thing, but the backpack-style straps ended up cutting right under our arms from the back. We adjusted and adjusted, moving the chest strap around and the waist belt up and down, and neither of us could get it quite comfortable on our bodies. When I was in a tank top, this was especially irritating, because it meant that one or more buckles was rubbing against my bare arm as I was wearing him. Not ideal. (For what it's worth, knowing that style isn't great for us was super helpful because now we're focused on SSCs with straps that can cross in the back and have since purchased two that work a lot better for us. Again, it's just how it hits your body, I think, because I've read that some people love the Boba 4G and how it fits.) The other problem that I continually had was in adjusting the straps every time I put the carrier on, I found it very easy to accidentally over-tighten the straps. While it didn't seem to make a difference in how Henry fit in the carrier, it would eventually make my shoulders ache from being pulled a bit forward. I usually didn't notice until after 20 minutes of wearing, by which time my kid would be asleep and I'd be reluctant to mess with the straps for fear of jostling him awake. I got more mindful of it, but it was still not second-nature after a few weeks. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uLLWadZlGrDEsA4jEERVpaEMLjzAd3qK2DDTDeLFSJjh9W0DzoznzDKp6fRjqZciKRjkkuTzcgmEKwca0Xu8Nj9Izk4Qj5res6UR7DFAwU2y2GzH5OWKh_RiPeUKFuz7xQxo-ERFdCGQ/s1600/Boba+4G-Front+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uLLWadZlGrDEsA4jEERVpaEMLjzAd3qK2DDTDeLFSJjh9W0DzoznzDKp6fRjqZciKRjkkuTzcgmEKwca0Xu8Nj9Izk4Qj5res6UR7DFAwU2y2GzH5OWKh_RiPeUKFuz7xQxo-ERFdCGQ/s1600/Boba+4G-Front+View.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrier Adjusted From Front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJMiSaun0wHT7fJMIRA6pAMa_6RfpvN0pgSeyJ2A4xjWq0zilyuiuOzNUncn6JlGIRia8gpQY4T4Y5di3bWWxUDRKztroFveG4toU9OdnaEmsgVIhpQecgAIO-y2SyTODn-vBHB04ZtXt/s1600/Boba+4G-back+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJMiSaun0wHT7fJMIRA6pAMa_6RfpvN0pgSeyJ2A4xjWq0zilyuiuOzNUncn6JlGIRia8gpQY4T4Y5di3bWWxUDRKztroFveG4toU9OdnaEmsgVIhpQecgAIO-y2SyTODn-vBHB04ZtXt/s1600/Boba+4G-back+view.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrier Adjusted From Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Overall, we liked our experience testing out the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/" target="_blank">Boba 4G</a>. It was the
carrier my husband would grab first, always, and Henry always felt
supported well on our bodies. We liked trying a SSC to see how it'd
compare to our stretchy-wrap, ring sling and mei tai options. While
there were definitely positive things about what was clearly a very
well-made carrier, I'm so glad we had a chance to test it out for
awhile, because carriers fit each body differently and babies definitely
have their own ideas about what they prefer and what's comfortable for
them.<br />
<br />
<i><b>NOTE: Boba donated the <a href="http://www.boba.com/store/baby-carrier/" target="_blank">Boba 4G</a> Carrier to our local babywearing lending library in exchange for this review. The views expressed in this review are Kate's own and were not influenced by this donation. Our community whole-heartedly thanks Boba for their very generous donation. </b></i><br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-26395602752751175712014-08-20T05:33:00.001-07:002014-10-12T08:49:29.603-07:00Catbird Baby Pikkolo Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><i>The following review was written by guest blogger and fellow"Attached Mama" </i></b><i><b>Susan Scantland Littleton</b></i></div>
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I was really excited for the opportunity to try out the
<a href="http://catbirdbaby.com/index.php/shop/pikkolo.html" target="_blank">Catbird Metropolitan (solid black) Pikkolo</a> from our babywearing group's local lending library. My experience with <a href="http://www.bwiboston.com/soft-structured-carrier.html" target="_blank">SSC</a>s (soft structured carriers) was zero; I’ve been using
wraps since my son was born. So this gave me a chance not only to try a new
SSC, but also to try a whole different form of babywearing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHC83iqPFoDojbTnQQ1SUcuA_qpPMgchoBnHt8Xh_k9Ojv7OLnid-_LArEARXosqjqi23_YPLnW9bKVmhbNzG-q2JsjrRmGXYKij0yzBmG6CxwcJhKWs3aCmgKWBjFL280h99FQfQEiOoh/s1600/pikkolopic-final+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHC83iqPFoDojbTnQQ1SUcuA_qpPMgchoBnHt8Xh_k9Ojv7OLnid-_LArEARXosqjqi23_YPLnW9bKVmhbNzG-q2JsjrRmGXYKij0yzBmG6CxwcJhKWs3aCmgKWBjFL280h99FQfQEiOoh/s1600/pikkolopic-final+1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://catbirdbaby.com/index.php/shop/pikkolo.html" target="_blank">Pikkolo</a> is designed to be ergonomic for front-facing in
and front-facing out carries as well as back carries. As there are few carriers
that allow ergonomic facing out, this will be an appealing feature for some
wearers. Catbird advises facing out will be less comfortable after about 20
lbs., but I found it surprisingly comfortable with my 25 lb. 10-month-old. I
wouldn’t want to carry him that way for long, but my son seemed to enjoy the
new position for the twenty minutes I had him in it. By the end of that time,
my back was protesting.
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While designed to be ergonomic with knee-to-knee coverage,
my 31 in. boy’s legs were dangling a bit. I had a friend with a slightly
smaller one-year-old try on the carrier for comparison, and it was still
knee-to-knee on her daughter. It certainly provides a closer to ergonomic fit
than a narrow-based carrier, but my son seems to have outgrown it relatively
early. It’s designed for carrying 8 to 40 lbs., and I felt no back pain
carrying my son in either the front, inward facing position nor in a back
carry. The padded straps are cushy without being overly bulky, and the chest
clip is easy to clasp in both front and back positions. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsj1jGqaJVCxebmnv3G9F956AwFkAs0fRMdTHkFwjbdL60PrrxZ8HLRCTIozJtc1f-37EU5hvU8GhuBd4qQ_jDZYWwKVfhFbLGXV_RcNaAkNoZtzKksNXqADiNE1sUuVhoirzATfSlBWF/s1600/pikkolopic2-final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsj1jGqaJVCxebmnv3G9F956AwFkAs0fRMdTHkFwjbdL60PrrxZ8HLRCTIozJtc1f-37EU5hvU8GhuBd4qQ_jDZYWwKVfhFbLGXV_RcNaAkNoZtzKksNXqADiNE1sUuVhoirzATfSlBWF/s1600/pikkolopic2-final.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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During the two weeks I borrowed this carrier, I used it for
lots of chores around the house, some 60-90 minute walks, and for errands. I
appreciated the ease with which I could get him up and comfortable, compared to
how long it takes to achieve a supportive carry in a wrap. My son always seemed
comfy, and I never had to worry about him “popping his seat” the way he can in
a wrap. It’s not possible to get him up as high on my back as I can with him
wrapped, even buckling the waist belt directly under my breasts. He likes to
see over my shoulder, and if he can’t, he tries to lean down under my arm. He
was secure enough that when he leaned around my side to see what I was doing, I
didn’t have to worry he could go anywhere, but it made me off balance. </div>
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Overall, I think the <a href="http://catbirdbaby.com/index.php/shop/pikkolo.html" target="_blank">Catbird Pikkolo</a> is a great option for
the first year of babywearing. It may not fit as long as a Tula or a
Kinderpack, but it’s also a less expensive option. The ability to forward face
will be really appealing from babywearers crossing over from narrow-based
carriers as well as those with babies who are only happy facing out. I was impressed
with how it felt, even with such a big baby. Because of the size, I won’t be
purchasing a Pikkolo for this baby. But it did make me think an SSC may work
for us someday, and it’s definitely one I would check out if I were shopping
for a smaller baby. </div>
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<i>NOTE TO READERS FROM CATHY: <a href="http://catbirdbaby.com/" target="_blank">Catbird Baby</a> VERY generously donated the
carrier used in this review to the community's local lending library in
exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this
review are the author's own and have not been influenced by the
donation. I wish to thank <a href="http://catbirdbaby.com/" target="_blank">Catbird Baby</a> for their generosity. </i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-30018618186406816662014-07-30T13:56:00.000-07:002014-08-07T09:18:01.510-07:002014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b>May I proudly present....... <i>(drum roll)</i></b><br />
<br />
<b>The 2014-2015 Sonlight/Bookshark Blog Roll! </b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMcAMl1uOQxQp5J85xmFK86e3hG7Pbi9VjT1O7D2lbE-hT22sH1nRCvmOIpN_jS3wZlwlAtNnypjRwZvDSJZgv1_ktfjy909bvY6bQafX3ak90BOiJLMNwDy9aZcTsUWkitgkMud56nIL/s1600/sonlight+button-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMcAMl1uOQxQp5J85xmFK86e3hG7Pbi9VjT1O7D2lbE-hT22sH1nRCvmOIpN_jS3wZlwlAtNnypjRwZvDSJZgv1_ktfjy909bvY6bQafX3ak90BOiJLMNwDy9aZcTsUWkitgkMud56nIL/s1600/sonlight+button-large.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>This blog roll will give fellow "Sonlight-ers" a place to connect and
meet. Feel free to bookmark or pin this page and refer to it anytime you need
some inspiration. </b><br />
<br />
<i><b>Are you a blogger using Sonlight for the 2014-2015 school year? </b></i><br />
If so, we would love it if you would join the Sonlight Blog Roll. You don't even have to be using a 'complete' sonlight core. Anyone using and blogging about Sonlight is welcome to join.<br />
<br />
UPDATE: I received an email asking if "Bookshark" users are welcome to join. The answer is...yes! We would love to have you included in our blog roll. <br />
<br />
<b>Here's how to do it:</b><br />
STEP 1) Scroll down and grab the button code below and display it proudly on your blog. All entries <u>must</u> have a link to this blog roll somewhere on the main page of their blog or you will not be allowed to participate. This is so we can get the word out about the Sonlight Blog Roll. <br />
<br />
STEP 2) Next, use the Linky Tool at the bottom of this page to link up your
blog. There is absolutely no weekly posting requirement--just link up
and have fun.<br />
<br />
NOTE: Please include your blog's name with the core(s) you are using in
parenthesis (if applicable). Example: The Attached Mama (Cores P3/4, B, and F)<br />
<br />
STEP 3) Leave a comment on my blog letting me know you linked up so I can come check out your blog. <br />
<br />
<i>Are you a NEW SONLIGHT user? If so, <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/rewards/DH20271164" target="_blank">follow this link</a> when registering for your Sonlight account. It can save you $5 off your first order of $50 or more. (ENTER REWARDS ID: </i><b><code>DH20271164</code></b>.)<br />
<br />
<b>Post a link to your blog here after grabbing button code (below):</b><br />
<b><!-- start LinkyTools script --><br /><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=239378" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><!-- end LinkyTools script --></b><br />
<br />
<b>Button Code:</b><br />
Please select the size of button/banner you prefer by copying and pasting the code onto the main page of your blog. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>200px by 200px Button for Side Bar</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<img alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton200X200_zps9ee63daf.jpg" nbsp="" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" /></div>
<pre style="background: none; border: none; padding: 0;"><textarea style="background: #f0f0f0; border: solid 1px #cccccc; color: #777777; display: block; font-size: 100%; height: 50px; margin: auto; padding: 7px 0 2px 5px; text-align: left; width: 90%;"><div align="center">
<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2014/07/2014-2015-sonlight-blog-roll.html" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton200X200_zps9ee63daf.jpg" alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
</textarea></pre>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>150px by 150px button for Side Bar:</b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<img alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton150X150_zpse5d90b26.jpg" nbsp="" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" /></div>
<pre style="background: none; border: none; padding: 0;"><textarea style="background: #f0f0f0; border: solid 1px #cccccc; color: #777777; display: block; font-size: 100%; height: 50px; margin: auto; padding: 7px 0 2px 5px; text-align: left; width: 90%;"><div align="center">
<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2014/07/2014-2015-sonlight-blog-roll.html" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton150X150_zpse5d90b26.jpg" alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
</textarea></pre>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>125px by 125px Button for Side Bar: </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<img alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton125X125_zps1b783ae3.jpg" nbsp="" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" /></div>
<pre style="background: none; border: none; padding: 0;"><textarea style="background: #f0f0f0; border: solid 1px #cccccc; color: #777777; display: block; font-size: 100%; height: 50px; margin: auto; padding: 7px 0 2px 5px; text-align: left; width: 90%;"><div align="center">
<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2014/07/2014-2015-sonlight-blog-roll.html" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/sonlightbutton125X125_zps1b783ae3.jpg" alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll - The Attached Mama" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
</textarea></pre>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>200px by 600px Banner:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i></i><br />
<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<i><img alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll at The Attached Mama" src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/SonlightBanner_zpsd65b9590.jpg" nbsp="" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll at The Attached Mama" /></i></div>
<i>
</i>
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<pre style="background: none; border: none; padding: 0;"><textarea style="background: #f0f0f0; border: solid 1px #cccccc; color: #1f1c1c; display: block; font-size: 100%; height: 50px; margin: auto; padding: 7px 0 2px 5px; text-align: left; width: 90%;"><div align="center">
<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2014/07/2014-2015-sonlight-blog-roll.html" title="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll at The Attached Mama"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/SonlightBanner_zpsd65b9590.jpg" alt="2014-2015 Sonlight Blog Roll at The Attached Mama" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
</textarea></pre>
<i>
</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>Do you still have questions? Please feel free to contact me in the comment section below. I would be glad to help!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Thanks so much!</b><br />
<b>Cathy aka The Attached Mama</b><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<br />
<blockquote>
<i><b>
</b></i>
<i><b>My blog and the blogs linked to this page are not affiliated with the
Sonlight Curriculum company in any way. We are just fans and users of
the curriculum. The views expressed in these blogs do not represent Sonlight or their employees. </b></i></blockquote>
<br />
<a href="http://www.sonlight.com/rewards/DH20271164"><img alt="Sonlight Curriculum" border="0" src="https://www.sonlight.com/images/banner-full-468x60.gif" /></a> <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-67207499939782704962014-02-10T08:06:00.001-08:002014-02-10T08:07:22.697-08:00Valentine's Day Boxes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Doug was in charge of helping the kids with their valentines day boxes this year. They use these in their homeschool valentine exchange party. I think they turned out great! (They sure look better than the red shoe boxes covered in glitter glue and heart stickers that I used to make.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitvKY8v64Lmrw8m6KF-eMHf3bpnGVLy5cZyxP-Ga0oWiylyIJ-6vOPGl5tFx0qxg7_4YXFq5a5Vut7ZcclCm_3Bz_ThVvwp0dWRC0rWwBFDkhx1t3jRzEiRa5uyTRGgEPbefOTlyfYeKu/s640/blogger-image-426845399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitvKY8v64Lmrw8m6KF-eMHf3bpnGVLy5cZyxP-Ga0oWiylyIJ-6vOPGl5tFx0qxg7_4YXFq5a5Vut7ZcclCm_3Bz_ThVvwp0dWRC0rWwBFDkhx1t3jRzEiRa5uyTRGgEPbefOTlyfYeKu/s640/blogger-image-426845399.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Marcus helped create a purple minion box. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisV_yEsILWvTzx790M2fiLheT5B3J2Rb-AkwwJqsF09t0d9oqcFgiiHIPdRkEIh8fbe_Gz9y4Qy9Gp7lKRvdJK7yKEVdG09whQ1dViam5SosdRCwFGCFlnbv4XcS33P6ntvPqvkrwsS0X/s640/blogger-image-941023558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisV_yEsILWvTzx790M2fiLheT5B3J2Rb-AkwwJqsF09t0d9oqcFgiiHIPdRkEIh8fbe_Gz9y4Qy9Gp7lKRvdJK7yKEVdG09whQ1dViam5SosdRCwFGCFlnbv4XcS33P6ntvPqvkrwsS0X/s640/blogger-image-941023558.jpg" /></a></div>
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And Sophie helped create an R2D2 box.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwz7JTNLeYTrA9LFf-ZowUwzXefVpYQpAfnlYPUwWmrul2-6UlAT7DEzJoSI5eNWMwYd1CUCHlzytWoqMOgop79gFSaQ-7MlLLluebqsakLoSfxrGTuXXbvBsO5gLedGStoMolcAs2urCQ/s640/blogger-image-1771661174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwz7JTNLeYTrA9LFf-ZowUwzXefVpYQpAfnlYPUwWmrul2-6UlAT7DEzJoSI5eNWMwYd1CUCHlzytWoqMOgop79gFSaQ-7MlLLluebqsakLoSfxrGTuXXbvBsO5gLedGStoMolcAs2urCQ/s640/blogger-image-1771661174.jpg" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-5978819479112315272013-07-06T15:41:00.000-07:002014-08-07T09:21:49.315-07:00Beco Babycarrier Makeover and Nursing Cover<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hi There Everyone,<br />
<br />
For those that don't know, we are expecting our third child sometime in September. SO--I have been doing some sewing/nesting in preparation. <br />
<br />
The first thing on my list was to find a way to spruce up my old Beco 4G babycarrier. Marcus and Sophie pretty much <i>lived</i> in this carrier from the time they were babies until they were as old as 3 or 4. It had seen a lot of use to say the least. The straps were faded, and I had sort of fallen out of love with the fabric.<br />
<br />
Here are the before pictures of the carrier:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9L0ioQdjezpz1LfLz4kS6IwL0nP-Lmi82nq9Co_hYNZPJnaD45PXOGQqksxgMstfATwBiwXJh1NzgRLMeWkqXWmVGlFug-IYDLfka8Rfxd9zvBSu-Fu1kkN0vMvBqncqgOwUJ7Z8na0IU/s1600/_DSC0638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9L0ioQdjezpz1LfLz4kS6IwL0nP-Lmi82nq9Co_hYNZPJnaD45PXOGQqksxgMstfATwBiwXJh1NzgRLMeWkqXWmVGlFug-IYDLfka8Rfxd9zvBSu-Fu1kkN0vMvBqncqgOwUJ7Z8na0IU/s400/_DSC0638.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And here are the after pictures:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lm8XB5BqTfyRQdh8ON_0ATL_gR_x2ZSJiy6l2ZRLKSV2idnESDZ7D3zzo0IPp7hcIRhoqVqgVCOwv65wN9j80gaq-R5vgsZXoGDq5KV9VJ80zqUjJyXNT0abekHLCg1Hp7jfCgfCm-BI/s1600/_DSC0647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lm8XB5BqTfyRQdh8ON_0ATL_gR_x2ZSJiy6l2ZRLKSV2idnESDZ7D3zzo0IPp7hcIRhoqVqgVCOwv65wN9j80gaq-R5vgsZXoGDq5KV9VJ80zqUjJyXNT0abekHLCg1Hp7jfCgfCm-BI/s400/_DSC0647.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I starting out trying to dye the carrier with rit dye in the washing machine. I was trying to re-darken the faded, black straps. That didn't really do much. (Just made a mess in my washer!) I probably should have used a better type of dye, but I was impatient and just wanted to get this project finished.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR75OPNfLKCOZBtZqQYnVqWe-Qog9stqKyv-bPLvME5uRIi0FUMohLKKfL1fz0xOjQOdqn8EqJhdTxZeOxA4W5isKmy1P8g5p_5hN8ZkQNf9B3Qg9TqaFCefurzYb81XRWo8IVwQ3Ce3Q/s1600/_DSC0650.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkR75OPNfLKCOZBtZqQYnVqWe-Qog9stqKyv-bPLvME5uRIi0FUMohLKKfL1fz0xOjQOdqn8EqJhdTxZeOxA4W5isKmy1P8g5p_5hN8ZkQNf9B3Qg9TqaFCefurzYb81XRWo8IVwQ3Ce3Q/s400/_DSC0650.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is me doing my "Vanna White pose" with the baby carrier. I always feel like such an idiot getting my picture taken for these sewing projects. :) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had some gorgeous Japanese fabric in my stash that I was going to turn into an apron. (Echino for all of you fabric nerds.) However, I figure I need another apron like a whole in the head---so I used the fabric to recover the carrier. This was actually amazing fast and simple to do. I just appliqued the new fabric over the old...and voila...a new looking baby carrier. (I like this new fabric so much better!)<br />
<br />
I had enough fabric left over to sew a matching nursing cover. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcV1HrJBowWGXtDc6GgCRzmyDsU_ckPKfBAK62bna8c8S2SQvlNpLZeeDTJL8eQzsetK_xCI61IuMFprEcvZ_WqMxFFC2KqmWaav9xzW00YlxDUWd5xz0gno8XibretefWp0ZiqkNRUSe/s1600/_DSC0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcV1HrJBowWGXtDc6GgCRzmyDsU_ckPKfBAK62bna8c8S2SQvlNpLZeeDTJL8eQzsetK_xCI61IuMFprEcvZ_WqMxFFC2KqmWaav9xzW00YlxDUWd5xz0gno8XibretefWp0ZiqkNRUSe/s400/_DSC0654.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the matching nursing cover. As you can see, I only know one "Vanna White" pose. You can also see that I haven't gotten around to weeding much this pregnancy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking!<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-17564724725957012432013-05-22T09:04:00.000-07:002013-05-22T09:13:24.510-07:00Sewing for my Mama<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Here's a little sewing I did for my mama for Mother's Day.....<br />
<br />
The first thing I made was a fabric journal cover. This cover was made to fit just a standard sized memo book you can buy at the store. (I wanted to make it fit something standard and easy to come by so you could replace the journal easily when the paper was used up.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5337/8780748187_538771a7c0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5337/8780748187_538771a7c0_b.jpg" width="326" /></a></div>
I used a natural colored linen for the main fabric. Then I quilted a little "strip" together out of some pretty scrap fabrics I had in my stash. I then embroidered it with a retro looking kitty and added her name. <br />
</div>
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<br />
The inside of the journal is lined in one of my favorite Heather Bailey fabrics. (It is called "Church Flowers" and it is from her nicey jane collection.) I also added a ribbon bookmark just because.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/8787277698_47706dccf7_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/8787277698_47706dccf7_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/8787277698_47706dccf7_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I had some extra fabric, so I also made a simple fabric bookmark that was personalized for her.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/8780717859_d751112fb0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/8780717859_d751112fb0_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric Bookmark Front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/8780726069_f4a997144b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/8780726069_f4a997144b_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric Bookmark Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Finally, I stitched up some flour sack towels and embroidered some cute, colorful animal sayings on them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/8787337064_edd78a8a2a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5469/8787337064_edd78a8a2a_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, that's all folks! Thanks so much for looking! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-36760182555659089692013-03-06T14:29:00.005-08:002013-03-06T14:29:46.625-08:00The Reading Lesson-My Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
When it came time to teach my children how to read, I did a
LOT of research on the various theories, methods, and products available to teach
reading. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One product that I
liked right away was <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank"><u>The Reading Lesson</u></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqVM6Skp4390GOuKsyaiteocmaYmc4zUUtzLN9I2HSdUQuYnjZjZKv1HqnhdpV9xW2DLkmVd9twl_KEvyeZmbE0pjqWLupW9Mf-pxy-Sa4PE5fFw88uDSAWnDxrqqPyiYAFhnYY24hZsu/s1600/image-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqVM6Skp4390GOuKsyaiteocmaYmc4zUUtzLN9I2HSdUQuYnjZjZKv1HqnhdpV9xW2DLkmVd9twl_KEvyeZmbE0pjqWLupW9Mf-pxy-Sa4PE5fFw88uDSAWnDxrqqPyiYAFhnYY24hZsu/s320/image-1.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank"><u>The Reading Lesson</u></a> is a complete reading program created
especially for young children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before
beginning the program, children need very little prior knowledge of the
alphabet or phonics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything is taught within the
context of the lesson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lessons are
also taught in a way that makes learning to read very simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other programs I have tried,
they make learning to read very complicated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children are expected to memorize long lists of phonics
rules—and then <u>all</u> of the exception to these “rules” that we have in the
English language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children
will not need to do that in <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, they
somehow manage to give a very thorough introduction to phonics without making
it so complicated.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Overview of the Program:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it is important for the parent to read the
introductory material at the beginning of the book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t skip over this material!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is short, well written, and very much “to the
point”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This material also gives
suggestions on how to keep children motivated during their reading lesson, and it
provides pacing suggestions for children of various ages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The book is divided into 20 different lessons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, each lesson will most likely be
spread out through multiple days (or even weeks).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parents are instructed to move through the book at their
child’s individual pace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another thing you will notice right away in <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> is the unique use of font size throughout the book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the beginning of the book, the font
size is very large, and there is a lot of blank, negative space on the
page.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My son (5 years old at the
time we went through these lessons) very much appreciated this aspect of the
book!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made it so that his
little eye muscles didn’t have to work so hard when learning to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also allowed him to easily complete
several pages at each lesson with very little “work”—which gave him a sense of
confidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you continue on in
the book, the font gradually (and very slowly) becomes smaller and
smaller.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is also more text
on the pages as you continue on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is one thing I found VERY unique
about <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
yet to see that in any other “learn to read” book. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next thing you will notice about <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> is
the unique use of symbols and marks on the letters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, many young children struggle with telling
“b” from “d” when first learning to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So, beginning in lesson 5 when the letters “b” and “d” are both used,
they put a little dot inside of the letter b so students can easily tell that
letter apart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again,
my children really liked this!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
was initially worried that they would become overly reliant on these little
marks when telling letters apart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was worried that once we removed the dots, they would not be able to
tell the letters apart anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, a year later, my children now very seldom mix those two letters
up even without the special dots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So it wasn’t a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3It5AYu_U38RdEJpuU7IhQrI8AL0Jht8V4uCdKAIoElMqlfmyuNkzccB3dYOIQcusn95QhHE1JQew_po6D0OBQzK_GsPaJcUzzdwkqsJi1dAkPWHHS2x25cj6gStlwG6IrqyG54ZJC2yO/s1600/image-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3It5AYu_U38RdEJpuU7IhQrI8AL0Jht8V4uCdKAIoElMqlfmyuNkzccB3dYOIQcusn95QhHE1JQew_po6D0OBQzK_GsPaJcUzzdwkqsJi1dAkPWHHS2x25cj6gStlwG6IrqyG54ZJC2yO/s320/image-2.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice how the letter "b" is uniquely distinguished between the letter "d". </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Another symbol that you will notice are the little lines
under the letters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is suppose
to provide a reminder to children about which letters they need to make the
sound of when reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another
unique feature of <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> is that consonant and vowel blends (such
as “th” and “ee”) are taught VERY early on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The children
are also introduced to “silent” letters right away (example:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the silent “e” common at the end of
words.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These lines are
there to remind children which letters make their individual sounds, which
letters need to be blended together, and which letters are silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Words are introduced and reviewed over
and over again with these “helping” markers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(There is <u>a lot</u> of built in review which I
appreciated.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After awhile,
most children will no longer have to “sound the word out” and will eventually
be able to read the word by sight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At that point, the “helping” symbols are eventually removed, and the
words are written normally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the end of each lesson they give you
a list of “key words” that your children should be very familiar with before
moving on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This list is sort
of a warning that after this point, these words won’t be written with a bunch
of “helping” markers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was extremely helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew that if my kids were not fluently
reading these words, I should go back and review the previous lesson before
moving on.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cWJKnXT7x4K4e5wBoj4WeQ7hwIpnoheYgWTyz09FJEzqBNbmtHDlkYehKEfO964oUcoWIHx7bSYaBxt0EwlJ0S2k7CPoRGkgpTiTVJuKrlI8yLaBGdr0DRPtILTA-AlELezoBJm1ty1Y/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cWJKnXT7x4K4e5wBoj4WeQ7hwIpnoheYgWTyz09FJEzqBNbmtHDlkYehKEfO964oUcoWIHx7bSYaBxt0EwlJ0S2k7CPoRGkgpTiTVJuKrlI8yLaBGdr0DRPtILTA-AlELezoBJm1ty1Y/s320/image.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the lines under the different letters and consonant blends. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The final thing you will notice right away about this book are the cute black and white line drawings throughout the book. Right away kids see that this is a book made for them! I didn't see that in other "reading program" books on the market. They were mostly just dry, pages full of text. Some kids will also enjoy coloring these drawings in when they finish a page in their reading lesson.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What a typical day was
like teaching this lesson:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The thing I like MOST about <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> is how easy
it was to teach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It requires next
to no prep work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is very easy
to open up the book and just start using it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Typically, what I would do is pour myself another cup
of coffee, and invite my kids to come and sit with me on the couch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The book itself would guide me through
any teaching that was required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I happened to be starting a new lesson that day, I would
very quickly read the one page introduction to the lesson before I called the
kids over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The introduction to the
lesson tells you which letters or letter combinations will be introduced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also guides the parent
on how to properly pronounce the sounds of these letters or letter
combinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(It is VERY
important to make sure you are properly pronouncing the phonemes when teaching
a child how to read.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was teaching two kids how to read simultaneously, so my
children would then take turns reading directly from the book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(All teaching and student work comes
directly from that single book.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
kids had about a 10-15 minute attention span when it came to a reading lesson,
so we would typically get through 2-3 pages per day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was exactly the pacing suggestion given to us at the
start of the book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My Bottom Line:</b></div>
I compared <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank"><u>The Reading Lesson</u></a> thoroughly with other
reading instruction books on the market within this same price range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(My comparisons included some of the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">most</i> popular reading instruction books available
including: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Teach Your Child to
Read in 100 Easy Lessons</u> , <u>The Ordinary Parents Guide to Teaching
Reading</u>, <u>Reading Made Easy</u>, and <u>Phonics Pathways</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The simple fact of the matter is that
all of these books are going to give your child a solid foundation when it
comes to reading. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These books are
popular for a reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>HOWEVER---I
found that only <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank"><u>The Reading Lesson</u></a> made learning to read a bit more fun
for the child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Many of those
other books were <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">extremely dry</i> and
felt like a huge chore for the kids to get through.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also found <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> to be extremely easy to teach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have never
taught a child to read before—however, I was able to do so successfully with
only this book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This book required
no teacher prep and was able to accomplish a huge amount of instruction in just
10-15 minutes per day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>So what is my bottom line?</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it comes to finding a reading program under $30, <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson</a> is by far the best product out there in that price range.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b>Extras:</b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The same company, who makes <a href="http://www.readinglesson.com/" target="_blank"><u>The Reading Lesson</u></a>, also
provides these other products for sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some parents may want to supplement the Reading Lesson with these
optional books, DVDs, and CD-ROM s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Here is my quick “review” on these “extras”--</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/" target="_blank">Letter Sounds DVD</a></b>--<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This DVD (which runs approximately 44 minutes long) teaches children the
basic sounds of the letters of the alphabet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parents can optionally use this DVD before or during <u>The
Reading Lesson</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My thoughts:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This DVD was nice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I personally prefer the Leap
Frog learning DVDs for teaching this information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/" target="_blank">The Reading Lesson Animated CD-Rom</a></b>-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is also an animated CD ROM
available which walks you through every lesson in the original <u>The Reading
Lesson</u> book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children
who like being on the computer may prefer this method of instruction over the
book (or along side the book).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This certainly isn’t an
essential item to own, but it is a nice addition to the program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I should note that we are a mac
family and had no problems getting this CD to install and run.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t say that about a lot of educational CD-ROMs!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/" target="_blank">The Storybook CD-ROM</a></b>-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Another cute supplement to the program is the Storybook CD-ROM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It contains 40 animated short stories
for your child to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
animations do a nice job of keeping the child interested and motivate them to practice reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My children also enjoyed the
“clickable” words if they got stuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Again, I wouldn’t say this product is essential to teaching your child
how to read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can do the exact
same thing by simply checking early readers out of the library and helping them
with words they get stuck on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, children who like being on the computer, might be more motivated to practice reading with this product. This
product is also nice because it follows the same letter-sound introduction used in
the lessons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (It is nearly impossible to find other readers that follow the exact introductory order used in <u>The Reading Lesson</u>.) </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/" target="_blank">The Writing Lesson</a></b>-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><u>The Writing Lesson</u> is an inexpensive handwriting program which
corresponds to the lessons in <u>The Reading Lesson</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your child is ready to learn handwriting
when you are teaching them to read, you may want to get this product as a
supplement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This product comes on
a CD, and gives you a plethora of writing exercises to chose from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Parents are able to print just what
they need <i>and</i> as many copies as they need for children in their family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The CD contains three different scripts
(primary, script, and cursive). It also contains activities that work <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>on forming of all upper and lower case
letters, common words, and even stories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So this single product could potentially provide handwriting practice
for an entire family from grades 1<sup>st</sup>-4<sup>th</sup> grade!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<b>
</b><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/" target="_blank">Big Words For Little Kids:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Advanced Vocabulary for Elementary School Children</a></b>--<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This book teaches children specific strategies for figuring out
the meaning of unknown words they encounter in their reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this book, they systematically
teach children to break familiar words into their individual parts (prefixes,
suffixes, and roots)….then transfer the meaning of those parts to new
words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally really liked
the approach used in this book. I have never seen a book like this written to the level of elementary aged students. I plan to add this into our language arts
program down the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><a href="http://www.mountcastleshop.com/Verbal_Math_without_pencil_or_paper_s/12.htm" target="_blank">The Verbal Math Lesson</a></b>-- There are two levels of these books
which provide a step-by-step math program for children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first level is meant for children
ages 4-7, and the second level is meant for children ages 7-8.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the title implies, these books attempt to teach math completely verbally…. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">without</i> paper and pencil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So obviously, this program might be a good fit if you
have a child who does well taking information in while listening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your child has poor receptive
language skills, they are not going to do well in this program and may need a
more visual or “hands-on” program instead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as the quality of this program, I can see
using this with a preschool or kindergartner who I wanted to gently introduce
to math.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many children this age do
not have the fine motor skills to complete the more typical “worksheet” based math
programs on the market.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far as
for older children (in the 7-8 year old range), I personally wouldn’t feel
comfortable using this as my <u>only</u> math program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I <u>would</u> definitely use this book
to supplement another math program.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found the book to contain some fantastic word problems and
activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">--- </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><i><b>Disclosure: </b> </i>The products reviewed here were given to me free of charge in exchange for my HONEST review. </span>I was not obligated in any way to provide a favorable review. These are my actual opinions of the product.</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-73451376745416553792012-11-11T07:02:00.001-08:002012-11-11T07:02:58.621-08:00Thanksgiving Book Suggestions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i><b>Authors Note: </b> I originally published a Thanksgiving book list in 2011. I wanted to republish this list updated with some new jewels that I have discovered. My wish is that these books will help create some wonderful memories this holiday season, and remind us all to slow down and be thankful for all that we have.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaum6l3eMfKZZkPcZ818Hf_dkqWSuKCNUzlfP1dHlK8jtMtr29kYkvU0q2NXiLY1WsPpPX82AmVIKEbBfstP7kbaCh0Yuasi1Dras54Fm30Eh45i0cDPbBz_yOQ5Mt__Q2buOz7RhOD38p/s1600/Thanksgiving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaum6l3eMfKZZkPcZ818Hf_dkqWSuKCNUzlfP1dHlK8jtMtr29kYkvU0q2NXiLY1WsPpPX82AmVIKEbBfstP7kbaCh0Yuasi1Dras54Fm30Eh45i0cDPbBz_yOQ5Mt__Q2buOz7RhOD38p/s400/Thanksgiving.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving
is one of my favorite holidays. For me the holiday is extra special,
because it was around this time five years ago that I first became a
mother. So I have an added reason to be thankful this time of year. I
also enjoy a reminder to slow down and really savor <u>all</u> that I
have to be grateful for. For me this time of year means crisp, fall
days; sweaters; pumpkin pie; and time spent gathered with loved ones.
It doesn't get much better than that.<br />
<br />
To help us all
get in the mood for Thanksgiving, I recently filled our book basket with
some of our favorite picture books for this holiday. I don't know of a
better way to celebrate the holiday season than time spent snuggled up
with your children sharing a good book. It is a surefire way to create
some cherished holiday memories for both parent and child. So--to get
you in the mood for Thanksgiving, here are some great books on the topic
that you can share with your children. Some are historical fiction,
others celebrate our modern day version of the holiday, and some of just
silly and fun--But they are all great books and worth a read!<br />
<br />
I hope that you will take time out to make these stories a traditon in your family too! <br />
<br />
<b>The Attached Mama's Thanksgiving Book List:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0618771247/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0618771247&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Thanksgiving Door</a> by Debby Atwell<br />
This book is a new discovery for me, and I absolutely CAN NOT recommend it enough. This book is about an older couple living alone named Ed and Ann. In the book, Ann is making a delicious Thanksgiving feast but then.....poor Ann burns the dinner! Ann feels just plain awful and decides to just spend Thanksgiving home alone, but Ed is hungry! So he suggest that they go and try to find a restaurant that is open. The only restaurant that they can find that is open is "The New World Cafe" a restaurant run by immigrants. So they enter the restaurant and have a seat in the deserted dining room. Little do they know, the owners of the restaurant left the door unlocked by accident. They were planning their own Thanksgiving celebration. They weren't planning to entertain customers too! The restaurant owners try to chase the customers away by banging pots and pans at them. However, the wise grandmother stops them: "Enough! In old country we bang pots at woves, not hungry people. Today is Thanksgiving Day. Family cooks turkey big as doghouse, but we don't share? Bah!" So the restaurant owners include Ann and Ed in their celebration. There is conversation, laughter, and even dancing at the celebration. In the end, Ann agrees that burning the Thanksgiving dinner was the best thing she ever did! This book reminds us that despite our cultural differences we are all people with much more in common than we think! A great read!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtJCzzABIEgaVmQZFePykHNFqEALt0WeZ2N4opjS2_VqflH51hVjyj8hZuExGa8a3_9nial-iHXWv2xUXYMFlpm0a9BuhdD3-53zgaqnsDSf0BLwxHJdJprD9Vi1rNe6c6x5hNdj77Vzn/s1600/The+Thanksgiving+Door.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtJCzzABIEgaVmQZFePykHNFqEALt0WeZ2N4opjS2_VqflH51hVjyj8hZuExGa8a3_9nial-iHXWv2xUXYMFlpm0a9BuhdD3-53zgaqnsDSf0BLwxHJdJprD9Vi1rNe6c6x5hNdj77Vzn/s320/The+Thanksgiving+Door.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807550558/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0807550558&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Memory Cupboard</a>: A Thanksgiving Story by Charlotte Herman<br />
For young Katie, nothing compares to Thanksgiving at Grandma's house. However, Katie is heartbroken when she breaks Grandma's cherished gravy boat at Thanksgiving dinner. It is then, that Grandma shows Katie her special "memory cupboard". This is an excellent book that teaches although we may grow attached to possessions, it is people who really matter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg9ANufgABkMahd1Ied5jdxG1qNS8lLQRriCxKgbEgm5FnTwJIbRLhrhSm4igVP4q0PfmY_7VHIsYI1LXjhEwk8B-oK7mW26QMXi4Zjezi6e9EaGVfRrYG5SO9Z4uChpQceoTlzf5HjF4/s1600/The-Memory-Cupboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg9ANufgABkMahd1Ied5jdxG1qNS8lLQRriCxKgbEgm5FnTwJIbRLhrhSm4igVP4q0PfmY_7VHIsYI1LXjhEwk8B-oK7mW26QMXi4Zjezi6e9EaGVfRrYG5SO9Z4uChpQceoTlzf5HjF4/s320/The-Memory-Cupboard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439323282/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0439323282&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Squanto's Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving</a> by Joseph Bruchac<br />
Most children know the story of the pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving. However, many are not familar with the story of Squanto--arguably the true hero of Thanksgiving. In this book, children will learn the remarkable story of the first Thanksgiving from the Native American point of view.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06pNLApVfvEzRRt7USwevLeHLlTUhpW56MbxsQXfh6zyT1UoJ-8ezK3IX3WSsN5o6cfMw8yAsAQF6ybFT_nUCjU86spNh-PKQYcWXefskedNkGUgtLif-K1qgVK-DK5Li9jszQl-BFW3W/s1600/squantos+journey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06pNLApVfvEzRRt7USwevLeHLlTUhpW56MbxsQXfh6zyT1UoJ-8ezK3IX3WSsN5o6cfMw8yAsAQF6ybFT_nUCjU86spNh-PKQYcWXefskedNkGUgtLif-K1qgVK-DK5Li9jszQl-BFW3W/s320/squantos+journey.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689802080/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689802080&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Three Young Pilgrims</a> by Cheryl Harness<br />
This is another living history book that I highly recommend. It is the story of three young pilgrims named Bartholemew, Remember, and Mary Allerton. When they and their parents first step down from the <i>Mayflower</i>
after sixty days at sea, they never dream that life in the New World
will be so hard. Many in their Plymouth colony won't make it through the
winter, and the colony's first harvest is possible only with the help
of two friends, Samoset and Squanto.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwkb1lJ-q-KHRR2GMgihxqLJW3VesBJx0eav7lgq6Ab07HwSOmh-qZbkGBUrmzeI4JxDl3mzxZyBM0W70cxa5fR7gmMzt34QLhRUX5v5O61njdAgCrUyCYGzETnToxneclgnb9yKTDUgi/s1600/Three+Young+Pilgrims.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwkb1lJ-q-KHRR2GMgihxqLJW3VesBJx0eav7lgq6Ab07HwSOmh-qZbkGBUrmzeI4JxDl3mzxZyBM0W70cxa5fR7gmMzt34QLhRUX5v5O61njdAgCrUyCYGzETnToxneclgnb9yKTDUgi/s320/Three+Young+Pilgrims.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807578894/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0807578894">This is the Turkey</a> by Abby Levin, Illustrated by Paige Billin-Frye<br />
Here's a cute book that I would recommend for younger children just learning what Thanksgiving is all about. The story begins with Max picking out a turkey at the grocery
store. It goes on to celebrate all that thanksgiving has to offer:
The food, the family, the preparation, and time spent with family. This
book also reminds us that our holidays don't always have to be perfect
to be wonderful!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUt2hrGNiK-prd_cYSYZSLXf1aYtCujvQLdjMcSuTeN2KVaUliqvEyP8rGq7dymOCacWLPVhs10olewHgq5LnDqXfbSk9_VQsfl9DnjQQ-uNqOH4LVBt799EnklzeZg-LYO3gjPAsi5C_w/s1600/ThisIsTrky.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUt2hrGNiK-prd_cYSYZSLXf1aYtCujvQLdjMcSuTeN2KVaUliqvEyP8rGq7dymOCacWLPVhs10olewHgq5LnDqXfbSk9_VQsfl9DnjQQ-uNqOH4LVBt799EnklzeZg-LYO3gjPAsi5C_w/s320/ThisIsTrky.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416919163/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=1416919163">The Very First Thanksgiving Day</a> by Rhonda Gowler Green, Paintings by Susan Baber<br />
Written
in cumulative rhyme, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story
of the first Thanksgiving. The repetitive text is fantastic for
children learning to read as it gives them a chance to help tell the
story. What makes this book unique is the way that the story is told.
The book starts out showing the very first Thanksgiving feast, and
slowly backtracks to tell the story of the Pilgrim's first year in
America.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSIH6DfzRhIG1NfbOef9TF4LQuwAiN32-Ma-NlG2RnE5WPIxbCbqUW7fOBZ6VY2sjUkgy0s8rj8yNdQUIKGuzt6Hty2TF5u0dwEl_gSuksj-q2HSdyG703aarzkdoW-S4qyKCjVFkaLA7/s1600/TheVeryFirstThanksgivingDay.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSIH6DfzRhIG1NfbOef9TF4LQuwAiN32-Ma-NlG2RnE5WPIxbCbqUW7fOBZ6VY2sjUkgy0s8rj8yNdQUIKGuzt6Hty2TF5u0dwEl_gSuksj-q2HSdyG703aarzkdoW-S4qyKCjVFkaLA7/s320/TheVeryFirstThanksgivingDay.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689714297/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0689714297">Cranberry Thanksgiving</a> by Wende and Harry Devlin<br />
This
book tells the story of a traditional New England Thanksgiving on a
cranberry farm. The book is a great reminder that we can't always judge
'a book by its cover' and that sometimes appearances may deceive.
Children will enjoy looking for Grandmother's secret and famous recipe
for Cranberry Bread which is hidden in the book. Baking this bread will
become a wonderful new tradition for you and your family.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4iH4H9cHbwZmgblWa_qW2YUC7vX3X46R8EnjBu3gqkOf9my3tjAHHYCc7wSXFgPCf3LF8vOaHpKYjjyX0WP1r9N36g3FrRsFfdgACBCpDQEnHyIdB3ZNiG2OLKbZTogEeq1xfpjGrsMnG/s1600/cranberry+thanksgiving" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4iH4H9cHbwZmgblWa_qW2YUC7vX3X46R8EnjBu3gqkOf9my3tjAHHYCc7wSXFgPCf3LF8vOaHpKYjjyX0WP1r9N36g3FrRsFfdgACBCpDQEnHyIdB3ZNiG2OLKbZTogEeq1xfpjGrsMnG/s320/cranberry+thanksgiving" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060537116/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0060537116">It's Thanksgiving</a> by Jack Prelutsky, Illustrated by Marylin Hafner<br />
We
love reading poetry together as a family. And after checking this book
out of the library, I just knew that it would someday become a
permanent member of our home library. This collection of poetry talks
about so many different aspects of this holiday--usually in a very
humorous way. This book contains poems about the very first
Thanksgiving, a funny poem about "Dad's football game" after the big
meal, a poem about the Thanksgiving Day parade (where it is
drizzling...isn't it always drizzling during the Thanksgiving Day
parade?!), and another very humorous poem about the things we do with
all of those turkey leftovers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXPXJVk8ur8CtFql4ASC9bdRuqMrlxPYF79-bbttVrRGI4suPUK373mZrVJwWOUSsgCamoQEKkAsMxy9Fw459P1izOet87kXx432F3mkU-Z0P7WQi9YCDMDKxvqZzk-LDibdJms1pd2Ui/s1600/Its+thanksgiving.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXPXJVk8ur8CtFql4ASC9bdRuqMrlxPYF79-bbttVrRGI4suPUK373mZrVJwWOUSsgCamoQEKkAsMxy9Fw459P1izOet87kXx432F3mkU-Z0P7WQi9YCDMDKxvqZzk-LDibdJms1pd2Ui/s320/Its+thanksgiving.jpeg" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0849958644/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0849958644&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving</a> by Eric Metaxas<br />
"Every once in a great while, the hand of God is easy to see, and for a brief moment, fairy tales and history are the same thing. This is the story about one of those times." So begins this wonderful account of Squanto's miraculous story. As a young boy, he was captured, taken to Europe against his will, and sold into slavery. However, that is not the end of Squanto's story. Remarkably, he finds his way back across the Atlantic to the land he was born in. And remarkably, he finds it into his heart to take pity on the English living on his land who he helps. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRrfIxEkmYbCtCcQV4VXb69ZBPG2CgdQCknaK5sMaZgBT46spabn9miHMUbSNkD3clFaLODfgvxwmRVCUMt2qbx9zZHjpGkqTzSDvU0_t2yxMNaXggOcvmfhvAE2A8eWzYNaR2qiVwF9L/s1600/squanto+miracle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKRrfIxEkmYbCtCcQV4VXb69ZBPG2CgdQCknaK5sMaZgBT46spabn9miHMUbSNkD3clFaLODfgvxwmRVCUMt2qbx9zZHjpGkqTzSDvU0_t2yxMNaXggOcvmfhvAE2A8eWzYNaR2qiVwF9L/s1600/squanto+miracle.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=httptheattach-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0060510986">Thanks for Thanksgiving</a> by Julie Markes, Illustrated by Doris Barrette<br />
This
is a another great book for very young children and toddlers. The pictures are charming and
inviting, the text is simple, but the message is a good one. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCZOzazkqFr-sJkJBETbEWoe6v1JEYLyYGikLcUBkXN9__bhXxwq2tpDyBaA6MeCCjYUayOl-hPxS0w9qsRly_Inb_fn3zaTEmcdGd4e5PYUKqKNPNJtrP3_kT0MnyMEVvWtfAzReSXpE/s1600/thanks-thanksgiving.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCZOzazkqFr-sJkJBETbEWoe6v1JEYLyYGikLcUBkXN9__bhXxwq2tpDyBaA6MeCCjYUayOl-hPxS0w9qsRly_Inb_fn3zaTEmcdGd4e5PYUKqKNPNJtrP3_kT0MnyMEVvWtfAzReSXpE/s320/thanks-thanksgiving.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064438503/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0064438503">This is the Feast</a> by Diane Z. Shore, Illustrated by Megan Lloyd<br />
This
book is written in a lyrical verse which makes it a joy to read aloud
to children. The illustration are meticulous and breathtaking.
Children will really get a sense of what life on the Mayflower might
have been like. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6XsLbSrbZNcC4aFMiqL1YZMvL_YR9SR9w30IBbY7VJyKsFo1DAfTNE5fRCSP9vRV_p_oOwamZEp_0qRxbhbQjv6nHMBP4-e4udK4sJ2ZPw-6SEONxTSuLAc_l7Y4ZeWpWA4Lh72f08oA/s1600/this+is+the+feast.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6XsLbSrbZNcC4aFMiqL1YZMvL_YR9SR9w30IBbY7VJyKsFo1DAfTNE5fRCSP9vRV_p_oOwamZEp_0qRxbhbQjv6nHMBP4-e4udK4sJ2ZPw-6SEONxTSuLAc_l7Y4ZeWpWA4Lh72f08oA/s320/this+is+the+feast.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GNLO42/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B005GNLO42">The Pilgrim Cat</a> by Carol Antoinette Peacock, Illustrated by Doris Ettlinger<br />
This
was another book that we checked out and knew that we would one day
have to buy. My little girl actually cried when it came time to return
this to the library! That is how much she loved this book. And I
enjoyed reading it as much as my children enjoyed hearing it. The book
is a historical fiction which follows a cat who jumps aboard the
Mayflower as it is departing England. The cat is befriended by a young
girl named Faith. The book is richly illustrated and a pleasure to
read. The reader really gets a feel for what life might have been like
for a child aboard the mayflower.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2q9-Mn6uzyQEt_p1dVvt-pWBO6UhEqoTjS-3A4uybG0MM65HeK-9fMq6wvjKf64UTZ2ZUU3daAqQideI5rApOQemPGx4kN7RN3R3ktw_jPNdIHxQE8oW6YSWEXWhpqEhoJj0mkXsl3xeX/s1600/Pilgrim_Cat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2q9-Mn6uzyQEt_p1dVvt-pWBO6UhEqoTjS-3A4uybG0MM65HeK-9fMq6wvjKf64UTZ2ZUU3daAqQideI5rApOQemPGx4kN7RN3R3ktw_jPNdIHxQE8oW6YSWEXWhpqEhoJj0mkXsl3xeX/s320/Pilgrim_Cat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698113926/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0698113926&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The First Thanksgiving</a> by Jean Craighead George<br />
This is a <u>beautifully</u> illustrated "living history" book for children written and carefully researched by Newberry Medal recipient Jean Craighead George. This is a story of adventure, humanity, and compassion....this is the story of the very first thanksgiving day. <br />
<br />
This
is just a small list of the many fantastic books available on this
holiday. My hope is that this list will help get you started on
building your own Thanksgiving book basket.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
Cathy<br />
<br />
<b>Links I'm Attached To:</b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><a href="http://1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com/2011/11/tot-school-pumpkins-again.html">Tot School</a></li>
<li><a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/2011/11/laid-back-school-preschool-corner-5k.html">Preschool Corner </a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<h1 id="EntityName">
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-4887835614832428112012-10-13T14:21:00.000-07:002012-10-16T07:14:04.244-07:00Pumpkin Book Suggestions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKlzz6vBRTljffvywBUGR9lNmsl6PSlkBRLbzeoLZOxUvmbDZQfsNd4w_J6m8-80sD_omC7mh4OFchslfnxEbGD5InF39Mg3Q4Getp4SyvEHxHCF4mDfGgboVZqe3dJSZw79b7Q18mGpw/s1600/pumpkinbook+list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKlzz6vBRTljffvywBUGR9lNmsl6PSlkBRLbzeoLZOxUvmbDZQfsNd4w_J6m8-80sD_omC7mh4OFchslfnxEbGD5InF39Mg3Q4Getp4SyvEHxHCF4mDfGgboVZqe3dJSZw79b7Q18mGpw/s400/pumpkinbook+list.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="bbc"><span class="bbc_underline">Headed to the pumpkin patch this year? Why not fill your book baskets with some great pumpkin themed books this year! There is just something about the cooler weather that makes me want to snuggle on the couch reading a great book to my children. I hope that this short list of books helps inspire you to create some warm memories with literature. </span></span><span class="bbc"><span class="bbc_underline"></span></span><br />
<span class="bbc"><span class="bbc_underline"> </span></span><b class="bbc"><span class="bbc_underline"></span></b><br />
<b class="bbc"><span class="bbc_underline">PUMPKIN THEMED BOOK BASKET</span></b>--<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400308461/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1400308461&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Pumpkin Patch Parable</a> by Liz Curtis Higgs- This
is the story about how a farmer can turn a simple pumpkin into a
glorious sight. In the same way, God's transforming love can fill each
of our hearts with joy and light.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UyDElJif75FYxKirTSS-BXfi2GSrcAmpHjLAEdOAsHTTdk4nJWUKip-EfcHemCxBQIolHZ_IMZHMZFEKzsEB1r982vhlhiNk39AqNPJ0pHlhYcf-AaxeWOZTiRxx595wphxgdxjrRhoU/s1600/pumpkin-patch-parable-by-liz-curtis-higgs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UyDElJif75FYxKirTSS-BXfi2GSrcAmpHjLAEdOAsHTTdk4nJWUKip-EfcHemCxBQIolHZ_IMZHMZFEKzsEB1r982vhlhiNk39AqNPJ0pHlhYcf-AaxeWOZTiRxx595wphxgdxjrRhoU/s320/pumpkin-patch-parable-by-liz-curtis-higgs.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
After reading this book, head on over to one of my favorite blogs "<a href="http://mymontessorijourney.typepad.com/my_montessori_journey/2008/09/learning-about.html">My Montessori Journey</a>" for a great go along project to do with your child. The project is called, "Let Your Love Light Shine". Just like a candle can light up a pumpkin, we can let our light shine from us. Also check out "<a href="http://totallytots.blogspot.com/2009/10/once-upon-book-pumpkin-patch-parable.html">Totally Tots</a>" crafts to go along with this book. <br />
<br />
<a class="bbc_url" href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=httptheattach-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0671662821" rel="nofollow external" title="External link">Mousekin's Golden House</a> by Edna Miller- This
book is out of print, but many libraries still have a copy. In this book a
mouse discovers a great new home when he finds an abandoned pumpkin in
the forest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0z9JtjPLKD30mTeESwb0LHd-XAHhI4sgv7POVG-VKRbCYWlCG0MmNZH9mrPAQarN74ujpMgt-pYcAjBoXnw70ov6vr1n75oQaP3DfCK7hOtrl-Sw6yh_Fh7LtYBkWYZieahDEOldqH_Kc/s1600/Mousekins+golden+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0z9JtjPLKD30mTeESwb0LHd-XAHhI4sgv7POVG-VKRbCYWlCG0MmNZH9mrPAQarN74ujpMgt-pYcAjBoXnw70ov6vr1n75oQaP3DfCK7hOtrl-Sw6yh_Fh7LtYBkWYZieahDEOldqH_Kc/s1600/Mousekins+golden+house.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689828462/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689828462&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689828462/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689828462&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Pumpkin Moonshine</a> by Tasha Tudor - This book is by one of my favorite author/illustrators Tasha Tudor. It is a <u>very</u> charming, old fashioned Halloween story that is sure to become a favorite. The story is simple, yet delightful. In the book, Sylvie Ann wants to carve a wonderful "pumpkin moonshine" (that is what they used to call jack o'lanterns way back when in New England)--but she has to get her pumpkin home first! Gorgeous illustrations! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFx19xqoHSmtc32M4iRB7Q7kGS41j5tVMmrMtxAZjJv6N5-j3n4Beb3QIaP8xaD3Vdj39B42tzG5mC1gesGts-IiIg2pjkA2XOmfLivjJhzMUANxdVKpwPJaTimww5Jb4vjwyqho2_bL_/s1600/pumpkin+moonshine.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFx19xqoHSmtc32M4iRB7Q7kGS41j5tVMmrMtxAZjJv6N5-j3n4Beb3QIaP8xaD3Vdj39B42tzG5mC1gesGts-IiIg2pjkA2XOmfLivjJhzMUANxdVKpwPJaTimww5Jb4vjwyqho2_bL_/s320/pumpkin+moonshine.jpeg" width="316" /></a></div>
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<a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064451909/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064451909" rel="nofollow external" title="External link">From Seed to Pumpkin</a> by Wendy Pfeffer- A great science book to tie in with a pumpkin book basket theme. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqvAGhDFSktzlTeQW_uh7SBmEDuHCHL6lf9itI9x0C97Tw_8CA07Q3RsYD3LyScJ6z0GqQcFzMWulP6HN_SFJFOx1xeQV8xRVv5Ug4vgQqvRQqmBW8loOCgKzn_9OMXeH8mUBF_UO_SsL/s1600/from_seed_to_pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqvAGhDFSktzlTeQW_uh7SBmEDuHCHL6lf9itI9x0C97Tw_8CA07Q3RsYD3LyScJ6z0GqQcFzMWulP6HN_SFJFOx1xeQV8xRVv5Ug4vgQqvRQqmBW8loOCgKzn_9OMXeH8mUBF_UO_SsL/s1600/from_seed_to_pumpkin.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqvAGhDFSktzlTeQW_uh7SBmEDuHCHL6lf9itI9x0C97Tw_8CA07Q3RsYD3LyScJ6z0GqQcFzMWulP6HN_SFJFOx1xeQV8xRVv5Ug4vgQqvRQqmBW8loOCgKzn_9OMXeH8mUBF_UO_SsL/s1600/from_seed_to_pumpkin.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0823413209/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0823413209&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20" rel="nofollow external" title="External link">Too Many Pumpkins</a> by Linda White- One lady ends up with WAY too many pumpkins. Very cute story!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHh9wb1OkS7CmTjfZmaXtDgGFUQz0p7efDq5iTgisawkFlMqb-rHHtnT4J5oyy8sjHFaRDhfVTY5R1qTYASC9JkqQAL1ld6wWEIIb7EC9BGwqh814N0flkfC_W-iG3LPMS5vh8KB0ODsq/s1600/too_many_pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHh9wb1OkS7CmTjfZmaXtDgGFUQz0p7efDq5iTgisawkFlMqb-rHHtnT4J5oyy8sjHFaRDhfVTY5R1qTYASC9JkqQAL1ld6wWEIIb7EC9BGwqh814N0flkfC_W-iG3LPMS5vh8KB0ODsq/s1600/too_many_pumpkins.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHh9wb1OkS7CmTjfZmaXtDgGFUQz0p7efDq5iTgisawkFlMqb-rHHtnT4J5oyy8sjHFaRDhfVTY5R1qTYASC9JkqQAL1ld6wWEIIb7EC9BGwqh814N0flkfC_W-iG3LPMS5vh8KB0ODsq/s320/too_many_pumpkins.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a class="bbc_url" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0590558498/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0590558498&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20" rel="nofollow external" title="External link">It's Pumpkin Time</a> by Zoe Hall- This book features some lovely illustrations. It is a favorite with very young children!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jYUJqPCOoWcdT63WU9Nid_xXEjSGYLcY9nvD_adtYzqrD2h-RcTvKStGpgBU3s-jQaTg9s2klHSPdxE-sO3ijLHqLQlcNXIMJ-63UGTl4jSUHWLkpO5J6i6yBgZQp5yNiQK_qZwuUG6e/s1600/Pumpkin+Time.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jYUJqPCOoWcdT63WU9Nid_xXEjSGYLcY9nvD_adtYzqrD2h-RcTvKStGpgBU3s-jQaTg9s2klHSPdxE-sO3ijLHqLQlcNXIMJ-63UGTl4jSUHWLkpO5J6i6yBgZQp5yNiQK_qZwuUG6e/s1600/Pumpkin+Time.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0375840141/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0375840141&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin?</a> by Margaret McNamara- This is a great "living math" book to read this time of year. Children can explore concepts such as estimation, skip counting, and other strategies for determining how many seeds are in a pumpkin. This would be a great book to read together before you actually carve a pumpkin so you can put some of these strategies into action.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijycxiCU1cLBF8z1Cwn15Xez6xZOiAnw9yR8IEbOlYvzJYK0cHFPE1qY0ynMn2i5quXng4DibC7lSorG4VRmPkZow0UzMn9VwPb2on-E1q3AAqZ31JPTq2syEGTdxizlcvdCVAgR5It99O/s1600/how+many+seeds+in+a+pumpkin.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijycxiCU1cLBF8z1Cwn15Xez6xZOiAnw9yR8IEbOlYvzJYK0cHFPE1qY0ynMn2i5quXng4DibC7lSorG4VRmPkZow0UzMn9VwPb2on-E1q3AAqZ31JPTq2syEGTdxizlcvdCVAgR5It99O/s1600/how+many+seeds+in+a+pumpkin.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0807566667/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0807566667&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Pumpkin Jack</a> by Will Hubbell- This is a very cute story which does a great job demonstrating the life cycle of a pumpkin. In this story, a boy name Tim carves his first pumpkin and names him "Jack". After Halloween, "Jack" is put in the garden where he slowly decays. The story follows Jack until Spring time comes and we find "Jack" has sprouted a <i>whole crop</i> of pumpkins! Children may want to do their own "Pumpkin Jack" science experiment after reading this book by placing their fall pumpkins in the garden instead of the trash.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-HwDVBRFzNn6QmHj4g75lV0ZSTNJX8IAVzr5q-_Xrpl7UMR0Dk8NS9AnrkMX_jITG2D89aAgkCRQMxd5cU6yTbitO94RyYXiPT7695S52UdqxZb2MncNdCGDmCmhgZXEN2qNBAMX0-lu/s1600/pumpkin+jack.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-HwDVBRFzNn6QmHj4g75lV0ZSTNJX8IAVzr5q-_Xrpl7UMR0Dk8NS9AnrkMX_jITG2D89aAgkCRQMxd5cU6yTbitO94RyYXiPT7695S52UdqxZb2MncNdCGDmCmhgZXEN2qNBAMX0-lu/s320/pumpkin+jack.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439929466/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0439929466&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">The Biggest Pumpkin Ever</a> by Steven Kroll- Two mice fall in love with the SAME pumpkin...What will they do? This is a very cute story which illustrates the joy of sharing and giving. This is a slightly longer picture book which might appeal to children in grades kindergarten to grade 3.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9dXQChUuOxaArh9qD96U_KOjOx5kxvAoW_HzfA2zye8lsYHWuMgjbkWnhnrBS8A88FX0hBR0XTLLTMqcKbM2hDP61eyuCk5NW4nwOYCkaQ9N__w3w0Fmq7CJvsoomtLZfqEbL8gELvVP/s1600/the+biggest+pumpkin+ever.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9dXQChUuOxaArh9qD96U_KOjOx5kxvAoW_HzfA2zye8lsYHWuMgjbkWnhnrBS8A88FX0hBR0XTLLTMqcKbM2hDP61eyuCk5NW4nwOYCkaQ9N__w3w0Fmq7CJvsoomtLZfqEbL8gELvVP/s320/the+biggest+pumpkin+ever.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0688099300/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0688099300&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Pumpkin Pumpkin</a> by Jeanne Titherington- A great book for young children! This book has gorgeous illustrations and describes the process of a seed growing into a pumpkin.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75_XFNqeKZTLlv26CsflkzfKSqAi79YHyKcmE6mkKHNIKaP1M5hBVJ3KEZfbhCzWnVXZK90-aHewcHXL21VeaDY4C_Bib2SMKcit5fc9_RCUQuk1AxXJbOynOLVvVePcg-liXqE9NXj85/s1600/pumpkin_pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75_XFNqeKZTLlv26CsflkzfKSqAi79YHyKcmE6mkKHNIKaP1M5hBVJ3KEZfbhCzWnVXZK90-aHewcHXL21VeaDY4C_Bib2SMKcit5fc9_RCUQuk1AxXJbOynOLVvVePcg-liXqE9NXj85/s1600/pumpkin_pumpkin.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374460310/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0374460310&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Pumpkin Soup</a> by Helen Cooper - "Deep in the woods in an old white cabin, three friends make their
pumpkin soup the same way every day. The Cat slices up the pumpkin, the
Squirrel stirs in the water, and the Duck tips in just enough salt." This is a great story about friendship and working through squabbles. The illustrations are warm and inviting...and there is even a recipe for pumpkin soup at the end. I suggest reading this book and inviting the kids to help you in the kitchen afterwards! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFWPQT5tep0ToLHMr3MoUbt9vM_h6NDX6nUDV26vWQmUILDU1C9Eednn42tRDilNX8jKG4yNwClNmJJW_LefiLB_l8UNlX2T7MmfLIySgMVK8tKz7M478U2jjt8OwU29pB0H4IBDzqaro/s1600/PumpkinSoup_Helen_Cooper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFWPQT5tep0ToLHMr3MoUbt9vM_h6NDX6nUDV26vWQmUILDU1C9Eednn42tRDilNX8jKG4yNwClNmJJW_LefiLB_l8UNlX2T7MmfLIySgMVK8tKz7M478U2jjt8OwU29pB0H4IBDzqaro/s1600/PumpkinSoup_Helen_Cooper.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/006187485X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=006187485X&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">Pumpkin Cat</a> by Anne Mortimer - A very cute story about gardening and working together. This is a simple story, but a great story for teaching preschoolers and toddlers about where pumpkins come from. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8siS9L44Zz5vqdNiXrRLsh4gsFJzWw3vrpjNmz2tOUSc7u2JMpC8HpcQ929Bz1oqsD6-Jp47NjDZa1-iqTETFHJtUSSCUezwmjTtK7a-OW5VvlBoYPPpe3IAe1lvnHN14oSMNqfoz_Kdw/s1600/pumpkin+cat.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8siS9L44Zz5vqdNiXrRLsh4gsFJzWw3vrpjNmz2tOUSc7u2JMpC8HpcQ929Bz1oqsD6-Jp47NjDZa1-iqTETFHJtUSSCUezwmjTtK7a-OW5VvlBoYPPpe3IAe1lvnHN14oSMNqfoz_Kdw/s320/pumpkin+cat.jpeg" width="250" /></a></div>
<b>Thanks for reading! </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i><b>Cathy aka The Attached Mama</b></i><br />
<br />
<b>Links to Become Attached To:</b><br />
-<a href="http://www.whatdowedoallday.com/search/label/The%20Children%27s%20Bookshelf">The Children's Book Shelf </a><br />
-<a href="http://learningwithmouse.blogspot.com/search/label/weekly%20reading">What my Child is Reading</a><br />
-<a href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-book-suggestions.html">A Thanksgiving Book List</a> (Thanksgiving will be here before you know it!) <i><b></b></i><br />
<i><b>-</b></i><a href="http://pinterest.com/theattachedmama/october-homeschool-plans/">My October Pinterest Board</a><i><b> (</b></i>Some crafts to do along with these books.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoVX328qgNxitiZpsRjKVm6gd5gtvDP7tTVbUgjktj2AECuGmShO2voxUBVVMMayUVZIfuKys-E6w9ffc7AamsO8YZKbXW8DYnK92hcJX3fcRrDYt2ncnoyps11l67rE14ZcXEINS_e_j/s1600/_DSC0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoVX328qgNxitiZpsRjKVm6gd5gtvDP7tTVbUgjktj2AECuGmShO2voxUBVVMMayUVZIfuKys-E6w9ffc7AamsO8YZKbXW8DYnK92hcJX3fcRrDYt2ncnoyps11l67rE14ZcXEINS_e_j/s400/_DSC0009.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-87715409564107239012012-08-27T07:54:00.000-07:002012-08-27T11:39:33.224-07:00Sonlight Blog Roll for 2012-2013<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's here: The much anticipated Sonlight Blog Roll for the 2012-2013 school year!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayw5Ti0RYhOZxOj8PxocHFN5QiTHOOn1SZ4i9HLcu4dJ52oaui9vPS8Qgo6z42LrK80WsmV37A9CajxsWYzCndtcccNjQFdFnTc-coSGBckEe6DpCpVgeq4_jfN8xjZLopQJL_yOzPAGT/s1600/Sonlight+Blog+Roll+2012-2013-LARGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayw5Ti0RYhOZxOj8PxocHFN5QiTHOOn1SZ4i9HLcu4dJ52oaui9vPS8Qgo6z42LrK80WsmV37A9CajxsWYzCndtcccNjQFdFnTc-coSGBckEe6DpCpVgeq4_jfN8xjZLopQJL_yOzPAGT/s320/Sonlight+Blog+Roll+2012-2013-LARGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>This blog roll will give fellow "Sonlight-ers" a place to connect and
meet. Feel free to bookmark this page and refer to it anytime you need
some inspiration. </b><br />
<br />
<i><b>Are you a blogger using Sonlight for the 2012-3013 school year? </b></i><br />
If so, we would love it if you would join the Sonlight Blog Roll. <br />
<br />
<b>Here's how to do it:</b><br />
STEP 1) First grab the button code below and display it proudly on your blog. All entries <u>must</u> have a link to this blog roll. This is so we can get the word out about the Sonlight Blog Roll. <br />
STEP 2) Next, use the Linky Tool at the bottom of this page to link up your
blog. There is absolutely no weekly posting requirement--just link up
and have fun.<br />
NOTE: Please include your blog's name with the core(s) you are using in parenthesis. Example: The Attached Mama (Cores P3/4, B, and F)<br />
STEP 3) Leave a comment on my blog letting me know you linked up. <br />
<br />
<b>Grab The Button Code Here:</b><br />
<a border="0" href="http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2012/08/sonlight-blog-roll-for-2012-2013.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/SonlightBlogRoll2012-2013-SMALL.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<textarea cols="20" rows="4"><a border="0" href=http://theattachedmama.blogspot.com/2012/08/sonlight-blog-roll-for-2012-2013.html target="_blank"><img src="http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w41/rugare/SonlightBlogRoll2012-2013-SMALL.jpg"/></a><br> </textarea><br />
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<br />
<i>Do you still have questions? Please feel free to contact me in the comment section below. I would be glad to help!</i><br />
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<b>Thanks so much!</b><br />
<b>Cathy aka The Attached Mama</b><br />
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My blog and the blogs linked to this page are not affiliated with the Sonlight Curriculum company in any way. We are just fans and users of the curriculum. :) <br />
<!-- start LinkyTools script --><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-37406330063667276212012-07-18T15:15:00.000-07:002012-07-18T15:27:32.225-07:00Sonlight Language Arts: Picture Book Narration<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This week we started <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/KRP.html">Sonlight's Kindergarten Language Arts</a> program with both Marcus and Sophie. If you have ever checked out Sonlight's language arts programs in the past, you might want to check them out again. They have recently completely revised and updated their programs. The changes are major...and I personally think the changes are for the better. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdFDY0JJd2u24caTgbpy7oY8wrDqaVXHM0zFm9ZUGiqUda-jJMLD7vc83x6CrYAKwfhqTqTQ5fvFLJaVtkVDCRxdIyEM-PvT4q45S3vgQguatw5iugehUefbEoVj70WVEzvFHO9c086X8/s1600/SL+LA+K.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdFDY0JJd2u24caTgbpy7oY8wrDqaVXHM0zFm9ZUGiqUda-jJMLD7vc83x6CrYAKwfhqTqTQ5fvFLJaVtkVDCRxdIyEM-PvT4q45S3vgQguatw5iugehUefbEoVj70WVEzvFHO9c086X8/s1600/SL+LA+K.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sonlight's Language Arts K with Readers Package</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even though both kids are at <i>slightly</i> different levels in reading and writing, their skill levels are close enough that I am able to combine them with only some slight modifications to the program. (Not to mention...Sophie tends to get very upset if she is not included in what Marcus is learning! So it is just easier on everyone to let them work together.) <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vaNVrH49uNuS0z0M5tIWabBDI6yo3OYf4d6J_F7W314WsCxRUl9RSvqBx5Xa5nw55nPxskTtIQgLWf3BJOP6cwhYIpf4cwBXHuOW1XeMMkzR2DoVNUYiYgYBfN202ZIvSchwUz4vmOJE/s1600/HWT-K+Package.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_vaNVrH49uNuS0z0M5tIWabBDI6yo3OYf4d6J_F7W314WsCxRUl9RSvqBx5Xa5nw55nPxskTtIQgLWf3BJOP6cwhYIpf4cwBXHuOW1XeMMkzR2DoVNUYiYgYBfN202ZIvSchwUz4vmOJE/s1600/HWT-K+Package.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handwriting Without Tears Package</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The reading portion of Sonlight's language arts package is <u>right</u> on target for Sophie. However, she still lacks the fine motor control to write "small enough" for the kindergarten level paper used in the Handwriting Without Tears package. She has also already completed the Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K work...so she is kind of in handwriting limbo at the moment. (Handwriting without tears has a "strange" name...but it is one of the best handwriting programs out there in my oppinion!) So-- an easy modification we made was to let her practice writing her lower case letters on the double-line slate instead of the workbook. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jukn9cEeXek?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Marcus, on the other hand, is a bit ahead of this program when it comes to reading. However, I think that the extra practice in phonics will only help cement the ideas for him. It will also give him some confidence when it comes to reading. Every now and then, we are allowing him to practice reading some other <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0071ULGOQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0071ULGOQ&linkCode=as2&tag=httptheattach-20">beginner readers</a>. He also enjoys playing <a href="http://readingeggs.com/">Reading Eggs</a> online. (I'm not much for screen based learning...but I find that this game provides invaluable, fun practice which is helping him build reading fluency. So he doesn't have to "sound out" <i>every</i> word that he sees on the page.) <br />
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The thing I really like about Sonlight the most is their "creative expression" assignments. The purpose of the creative expression assignments is "...to help your children learn to enjoy expressing their thoughts, as well as to get a good feel for the flow of a story." Basically the assignments give children a chance to practice verbally expressing their thoughts effectively. In most of these assignments, the parent acts as the scribe and the child tells the parent what to write. I think that learning to TELL a story is a <u>very</u> important step in learning to effectively WRITE a story. I think that many language arts programs tend to forget this. We can easily get so caught up in the mechanics of language: handwriting, reading, grammar, etc. etc---that we forget to spend time on the thought process that goes into communicating our thoughts in writing. <br />
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Today's "Creative Expression" assignment was a picture book narration. In this assignment, the children were to retell a favorite story while using one of their favorite pictures books as a guide. I allowed the kids to chose <i>any</i> book on our bookshelves to retell...and they BOTH picked the book <a href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=httptheattach-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0152049509">Kat Kong</a> by Dav Pilkey to narrate. <br />
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NOW---some of my readers might argue that Kat Kong is simply twaddle. :) HOWEVER-- the kids and I <u>both</u> enjoy reading this book. No, it isn't Beautix Potter...but it <u>is</u> a funny book that is rather well written. As you can probably guess, the book is a cleaver play on the old "King Kong" movies--this time staring a chubby feline who wreaks havoc on a group of mice. Marcus and Sophie both narrated this book to my while I typed in their work into the computer. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTkQEsXFCT8EnhNaLS1d6ieFqmO5ag2irXN3lNpUyXZbwbpMJIzdqyMAe_zBkK-xKwbXYe2xx20H8YyQ-lRriwW8P5UkiCguRSqSeTJMLZZEjgkypaUTnHCzItvfnrfVhwNBUDe9Je6yk/s1600/1226587.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTkQEsXFCT8EnhNaLS1d6ieFqmO5ag2irXN3lNpUyXZbwbpMJIzdqyMAe_zBkK-xKwbXYe2xx20H8YyQ-lRriwW8P5UkiCguRSqSeTJMLZZEjgkypaUTnHCzItvfnrfVhwNBUDe9Je6yk/s320/1226587.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
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It was an interesting experiment having two separate kids narrate the same book to me. I did this individually so that each would have a chance to really recall the details <u>they</u> remembered from the story on their own. I was impressed with <u>how much</u> detail both kids remembered from the book. Marcus, in particular has a mind like a steel trap! You read him something once, and he just remembers it. He easily recalled large portions of the text almost verbatim as he "retold" the story. (I don't think he quite understands the concept of using his own words to tell a story.) I was also impressed with some of the vocabulary he used to tell the story. Both kids attempted to use dialog to retell the story. I was pleasantly surprised that both kids automatically knew to add words indicating WHO was saying the dialog during their narration without prompting from me. (Example from Sophie's narration: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">“There is no way Kat Kong can escape. I repeat back there is no way Kat Kong can escape, “ said
Vincent Varmint.) However, in some cases, Sophie separated the dialog by doing different voices for the characters. (It was pretty cute! I wish I would have thought to video tape it.) Both kids had some typical age appropriate grammatical errors...which were also pretty darling. (Example: Marcus still refers to a group of mice by calling them "mouses".) All in all, I was very pleased with the outcome of this assignment. I think at the very least, these assignments will make a VERY nice keep sake for me hold on. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">SO---without further ado...here is each child's <u>Kat Kong</u> Picture narration with me acting as scribe. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">---</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px;">
</span><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Picture Book
Narration</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>By </b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Marcus Holmes </b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Age 5.5</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Wednesday,
July 18, 2012</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>Kat Kong</u> by
Dav Pilkey Naration</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dr. Varmint and Rosie Rodent and Captain Charles Limburger
approach a strange island. The
ship approaches the island and then some mouses make a weird chant. They say, “Here Kitty, Kitty, Here
Kitty, Kitty, Kitty!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suddenly, there is a CRASHING in the island: Kat Kong, the most terrifying creature
to mouse-kind! Suddenly the
terrifying creature trips over their tuna and then falls down. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lets take the creature back with us,” said Vincent
Varmint. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh no, it would be bad to take him back from his natural
habitat.” said Rosie Rodent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Forget about science,” said Doctor Varmint. “Think of the money we could get.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They tie him up in a bag and they be careful not to let him
out of the bag. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This is Kat Kong the most terrifying creature to mouse-kind!” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mouses hurled back being afraid. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I repeat people this cat can not escape from these
chains. This cat can not escape
from these chains. OH! I guess I could be wrong.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suddenly, the terrifying Kat Kong jumps out and escapes from
the chains. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Help! That
cat's got my train!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Help! That
cat's got my tongue!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Help! That
cat’s got me!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suddenly the terrifying Kat Kong climbs up with Rosie Rodent
following behind. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think I shouldn’t have got so near,” said Rosie
Rodent. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It feels like nothing could stop the terrifying Kat
Kong! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suddenly a helicopter soars through the air. And then, “Hey cat, can you guess what’s in this package?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mouse flew over.
And the cat’s mind was thinking and thinking and thinking and growing
higher when at last he could not think any longer. And with a swift paw, he swiped for the package. And then he lost his balance and FELL
down. Everyone came to get a look
at the terrifying Kat Kong. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, it looks like love killed the beast.” Said the police
officer buster. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No,” said Dr. Varmint. “Curiosity killed the beast.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>THE END</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
--------</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Picture Book
Narration </b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>By </b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sophie Holmes</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Age 4</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Wednesday, July 18, 2012</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>Kat Kong</u> by
Dav Pilkey</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Three mice were in a boat. The mice went to that cave. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mice found tuna.
Then Kat Kong came. The
mice ran. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kat Kong slipped.
The mice took Kat Kong and put him in a sack. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mouse took Kat Kong and put him in metal. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There is no way Kat Kong can escape. I repeat back there is no way Kat Kong
can escape, “ said Vincent Varmint. And Kat Kong escaped and…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“AAAHHHH! Kat
Kong got my train!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“AAAAHHHH! Kat
Kong got me!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mice got their airplanes and tried to defeat him. Vincent Varmint came. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You won’t guess what’s in this box.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then Kat Kong swooped his paw and lost his balance. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then he fell and rocks came out. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Curiosity killed the cat.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>The End</b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85Exqq6iEgL4m8wcKPsJZ4VDw3wfoRLKrpu9dytnyh60G6DL60iYz8YE_Gu3Cd23YSt9IQ6qTjoCXsmDPxl9xX0hgMTmBXLh1bm6uiRzbyvVwJgUutFoA0rcGRWa3da9bWRhdDyhs2T86/s1600/catkong_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85Exqq6iEgL4m8wcKPsJZ4VDw3wfoRLKrpu9dytnyh60G6DL60iYz8YE_Gu3Cd23YSt9IQ6qTjoCXsmDPxl9xX0hgMTmBXLh1bm6uiRzbyvVwJgUutFoA0rcGRWa3da9bWRhdDyhs2T86/s320/catkong_1.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A group of "native mice" offering up a can of sacrificial tuna to Kat Kong<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 21px;"><b>Are you thinking of ordering from Sonlight?</b><br />If so, new customers can save $5 on your order of $50 or more. Just enter my rewards number upon registering (<strong><code>CH20271164</code></strong>). </span></b></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-76250800091424348472012-07-06T06:31:00.001-07:002012-07-06T09:44:30.000-07:00Why yes---that IS a view master skirt I am wearing today...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Wanna know just one of the great things about not working in a cubical anymore? I can pretty much wear any bizarre thing I feel like. For some stay at home moms that translates to comfy yoga pants and t-shirts. For me, that freedom translates to strange things I sew using wild fabrics---and now---I present to you my latest creation...a view master skirt. Yes...you read that correctly....a <i>view master skirt. </i>And that is what I am wearing today. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7122/7514300690_e89f807378_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7122/7514300690_e89f807378_b.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photography by 5 year old Marcus using the camera phone...hence the reason I don't have a head and I am running to scoop up my 4 year old daughter. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For those that don't know, in a former life before kids, I used to work as an engineer for a large corporation. My co-workers were mostly all male, so my work attire basically consisted mostly of boring chino pants and golf shirts. Yep--that what I wore most days. As the saying goes--- when in Rome, you do as the Romans do...right? <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7514308658_248535fabf_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7514308658_248535fabf_b.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photography by 4 year old Sophie using a camera phone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have noticed that since leaving my job, my clothing has become increasingly more eccentric. I didn't set out to become eccentric...it just sort of happened. And I think that this skirt pretty much takes the cake as far as eccentricity goes. But what can I say? It makes me happy---so I love it! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8159/7514316326_b908e9a4db_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8159/7514316326_b908e9a4db_b.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photography by 4 year old Sophie using...yep...the camera phone!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I first saw this fabric in the store, I immediately flashed back to my happy days of playing with view master reels as a child. I can remember struggling to set the reel in straight so that I could look at happy little 3D smurfs smiling back at me...or rainbow bright riding a unicorn...or whatever I happened to be into at 3 years of age. So I contemplated....what can I do with view master fabric? Hmmm... A more sane, less eccentric person would have sewn a wallet or a bag or something like that. Me? Well, I think to myself, "I want a view master skirt!" And so I sewed one. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcjY2yms_hnZ61jtIN41br14dkzEjdoE0xtnfzyx3QC7_FN4r6Gt9lf9qDSkw6lRY0SxcdDJPQgRRTWn7RsBE88eMO53OWwKLIQpNJiqS3f-sB417GIQtzgvCCrENGVHfXcyUA9chqu3J/s1600/viewmaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcjY2yms_hnZ61jtIN41br14dkzEjdoE0xtnfzyx3QC7_FN4r6Gt9lf9qDSkw6lRY0SxcdDJPQgRRTWn7RsBE88eMO53OWwKLIQpNJiqS3f-sB417GIQtzgvCCrENGVHfXcyUA9chqu3J/s400/viewmaster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The fabric is from Kokka's fabric. (Aren't all cool fabrics from Japanese companies?) It is designed by Melody Miller and part of her line called Ruby Star Rising. The pattern is my own. Just a simple A-Line skirt with a waistband, side zipper, and button tab closure. You can also see my hidden "stealth" patch pocket in this picture for keeping rocks, sticks, Lego mini-figures, and other strange things my kids ask my to carry.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7514316044_fe354629ff_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7514316044_fe354629ff_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Self Portrait using my trusty camera phone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All of these pictures were taken using my VERY crummy camera phone. Most bloggers use fancy cameras and take photography classes and things like that. But they probably wouldn't wear view master skirts. So on this blog, you must look at blurry pictures taken mostly by children under the age of 5. I guess it forces you to kind of use your imagination. :) <br />
<br />
Take care! And thanks for reading!!<br />
<br />
Cathy aka The Attached Mama<br />
<br />
<b>Links to become "Attached" To:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2012/07/linky_party_95/">Thrifty Handmade Days</a><br />
<a href="http://www.504main.com/">504 Main</a><br />
<a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/search/label/Freestyle%20Friday">Happy Hour Projects</a><br />
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-74165968097987299882012-06-10T14:52:00.002-07:002014-08-01T16:47:01.544-07:00Homemade Laundry Detergent for High Efficency (HE) Machines<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhaM1Ui6XWr21quvA_nQQVCP6AaX41LxCxeLeQPWNBhiQ_jfAUwJubQxZAlQ2-pPEjbCoJfBVo5atDd-LQ7dx2nbLLR2qmcWKltlgdJHElCpyE3bWcfhAi4nzjVZMImRsgrz1Eg-F8X7E/s1600/Laundry+Detergent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhaM1Ui6XWr21quvA_nQQVCP6AaX41LxCxeLeQPWNBhiQ_jfAUwJubQxZAlQ2-pPEjbCoJfBVo5atDd-LQ7dx2nbLLR2qmcWKltlgdJHElCpyE3bWcfhAi4nzjVZMImRsgrz1Eg-F8X7E/s400/Laundry+Detergent.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have grated the tiny bars of soap. I have mixed giant vats of liquid goop detergent. I have even used my pans on the stove to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8_D0kOfJpk">cook</a> (yes cook) soap on my stove. In short readers, I have put in the time and trial and error to test some of the most popular homemade laundry detergent/soap recipes around. And I present to you what I consider to be the BEST...yes <i>THE</i> BEST homemade laundry soap recipe ever. I would love if you would try it out and let me know what you think. <br />
<br />
But before I go into all of the details, you may be wondering WHY someone would go to all of the hassle of making their own laundry detergent.<br />
<br />
There are many, many reasons...but here are just a few:<br />
<b>1) Making your own detergent is a very easy way to go green.</b><br />
Most commercial laundry detergents contain <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/culture/ask-treehugger-whats-the-dirt-on-phosphate-free-soaps.html">phosphates</a> and other ingredients which are harmful to both you and the environment. According to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, the average family does 416-520 loads of laundry per year! Think for just a second how much water and energy is used up in this country just through trying to clean our clothes. Seconldy, think about where all of that water is going after it cleans your clothes. Simply switching to a more natural detergent could have a huge impact on the environment....and trust me it is an easy change. (Even I can do it and I am lazy!)<br />
Also, think about how many empty containers you are throwing away each time you run out of laundry detergent. Even if you recycle those containers, think about the energy that is used in that process. <br />
<br />
<b>2) Making your own laundry detergent and other cleaning supplies can save you a boat load of money.</b><br />
We have a high efficiency washer and so every month or so we were spending a TON of money buying Tides HE detergent. (It really is expensive!) This recipe uses a lot of low foaming ingredients so it is perfect for HE machines. Also, you are not having to pay for all of the packaging and marketing that goes into a conventional detergent. And I promise you, the cleaning power of this detergent is fantastic. I have very young children. We get really dirty. (Seriously...look at my blog pictures) And this detergent has been able to clean just as well if not better than our standard Tide HE detergent. <br />
<br />
And even if you don't have a HE washer machine, you have to admit that laundry detergent is not cheap. At least not compared to how cheap this recipe is. Using this recipe, you can make an entire years worth of laundry detergent for less than $5. (Prices vary depending on costs in your area...but I know it will be much cheaper than the pre-packaged stuff you are buying now.) <br />
<br />
<b>3) When you make your own supplies, you don't have to keep running to the store to pick up more detergent (or windex or "scrubbing bubbles" or any of that stuff!) ---And that is kind of freeing and cool. </b><br />
See the thing that hangs most people up about making your own cleaning products is the discipline it takes. No matter how easy the recipe is, making something from scratch <i>does</i> take more time than simply opening up a container of commercial product. So the thing that would always throw me off track would be I would a) run out of detergent and then b) be having "one of those days" where the last thing I wanted to do was MAKE laundry detergent. So I would always end up running to the store to pick up a commercial product. However, with this recipe, you only have to spend a couple of minutes one afternoon making it, and then you have a WHOLE <u>years</u> worth of detergent. (If you have an HE machine, you will actually have much, much more than a whole years worth!) This is also a powdered detergent. So, unlike the other homemade <u>liquid</u> forms of laundry detergent (which can sometimes get moldy)--this one will last indefinitely. <br />
<br />
<b>4) Using recipes like this is an easy way to give your cleaning supplies a makeover--Simplify! Simplify! Simplify! </b><br />
Do you open up your cleaning supply cabinet to see a ton of different bottles and boxes? Do you have a bottle for glass cleaner? Another bottle of stuff for cleaning the toilet? Another for the counter tops? Another for the stove? In fact, do you have an entire cabinet <u>full</u> of boxes and bottles claiming to be the 'next best thing' when it comes to cleaning. Chances are that your grandmother (or maybe great grandmother depending on your generation) didn't need to have 50 million bottles and boxes of stuff to get her house clean. She probably relied on a few basic essentials such as vinegar and baking soda to get her whole house clean. So if women have been keeping their house clean and tidy for years with those things....why of why do we spend hundreds of dollars buying all of those boxes and bottles of cleaning supplies? The answer is marketing. We all fall victim to it. (At least I do!) But the truth of the matter is that these simple ingredients used in previous generations still work <u>just as well</u> for cleaning and cost a fraction of the price. Most of them are also better for the environment. <br />
<br />
<b>5) Making your own cleaning supplies allows you to customize your scents and blends. </b><br />
One of the unexpected benefits to making my own cleaning supplies is that I have enjoyed experimenting with essential oils. I can choose exactly what "smells" I want my own special blend of cleaning supplies to have. And to be honest, it makes cleaning a whole lot more enjoyable! Instead of breathing in those toxic fumes like I was before, I am now smelling a faint and lovely "lemon verbena" smell as I wipe down my counter tops. Or--perhaps I might have "lavender vanilla" sheets to sleep on at night. I can even change my scents with the seasons. Last autumn, I made a lovely general purpose cleaner and scented it with Sweet Orange, Cinnamon, Clover, and Ginger essential oils. It made deep cleaning in the fall an almost enjoyable experience. Almost. :) At least it was better than the noxious, over powering smell most commercial cleaners have!<br />
<br />
So those are just a FEW of the reasons you may want to consider making your own laundry soap and cleansers. <br />
<br />
<b>Making your own Laundry Detergent: </b><br />
Now, when you start experimenting with making your own laundry soap, you will basically have two different choices: liquid or powder form soap. I typically bought commercial liquid detergent when I went to the store...so the first recipe I tried was for a homemade liquid detergent. The liquid detergent cleaned just fine...but it sort of had a strange consistency which kind of freaked me out. (Its difficult to describe in words, but if you have ever made it yourself, you will know what I am talking about.) I have also read reviews online of mold even growing on liquid detergent if it was stored for long periods of time. That wasn't going to work for me. I wanted a recipe that was easy to make and store...one that would last indefinitely so I didn't have to keep making it over and over again. So I ruled the liquid version out. <br />
<br />
The next several versions I tried were for powdered laundry soap. All of the powdered laundry soap recipes out there basically involve some ratio of the following ingredients:<br />
1) Borax<br />
2) Soap Flakes or Grated Soap<br />
3) Baking Soda<br />
4) Washing Soada<br />
5) Oxi Clean<br />
<br />
I test several of these recipes out. But the BEST recipe by far was in the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1883010985/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1883010985">Clean Naturally</a> by Sandy Maine. Ms. Mains book is a great read. She is an authority in soap making, so it didn't surprise me that her cleaning supplies worked so well. However, the thing I enjoyed most about her book is her overall philosophy about cleaning and life in general. <br />
<br />
This recipe seems to work fantastically in both hard and soft water. This recipe also doesn't have any of the more expensive or hard to find ingredients (such as washing soda and oxi clean). It smells great. It is low foaming. It is gentle enough for our clothes, yet tough on stains. So the recipe that I use today is a sort of modified version of Ms. Sandy Maine's. <br />
----------------------------<br />
So---Now...without further ado.....here is my FAVORITE laundry soap recipe. (Perfect for regular or High Efficiency Machines). <br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Simple Washing Powder Recipe</span></b><br />
16 cups of baking soda<br />
12 cups of <a href="http://www.20muleteamlaundry.com/">borax</a>*<br />
8 cupts of grated soap**<br />
3 tbsp of your favorite essential oils (optional)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* BORAX Note: You will typically find borax in the laundry detergent aisle of most any grocery store of home goods store. (I know that Meijer's, Walmart, Kroger's, and Giant Eagle all carry it. If you are from another part of the country, please feel free to use the <a href="http://www.20muleteamlaundry.com/store-locator">store locator</a> on their website to find it.) <br />
<br />
**SOAP Note: <br />
--<u>IF</u> you are making your own laundry soap for environmental reasons, it is best to use a grated <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ESE2FG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001ESE2FG">castile</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000N2O54W/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000N2O54W">glycerine</a> soap. You can buy these soaps at locally at a health food store or online. <br />
--<u>IF</u> you are making your own laundry soap as a means of saving money, I have found that a regular bar of grated soap works just as fine. HOWEVER (and this is important) you want to buy the most plain and simple bar of soap that you can find. Anything that looks like it would be good for your skin will be bad or your laundry. You want to avoid anything with added moisturizers or aloe as they often leave a film on your clothes or laundry machine. I have found that the brands <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003EMHV08/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003EMHV08">Ivory</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001B32NVO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001B32NVO">Feliz Napa</a> works best. <br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b> <br />
1) Grind or grate your soap. Yes...you can grate the soap using a cheese grater. But I have found that Ivory soap grates VERY will in a food processor. Cut the soap up into small 1" cubes. (Ivory soap is very soft and easy to cut.) Then place it in your food processor one bar at a time and grind it up. Wash your food processor well after doing this. ;) <br />
2) Mix the grated soap, baking soda, and borax into a large air tight container. (A wire whisk makes mixing very easy.) <br />
3) Add the Essential Oils if desired. (If you are making this for purely budget reasons, you may want to skip the essential oils. It smells great without them. They are just a fun bonus.) <br />
4) <i>To make more of less of this soap, just mix ingredients sticking to the same general ratio of 4 parts baking soda, 3 parts borax, 2 parts grated soap. This recipe yields enough to do aprox 144 loads in an HE machine and 35 loads in a regular machine. I suggest that you make a small batch at first to try it. THEN, later, when you see how much you love it, make enough to last a year. </i><br />
<br />
<b>To use:</b><br />
Use 1/2 cup for Regular Machines for regular soiled loads. For heavy soiled loads, you can up this to 1 cup. <br />
Use 1 Tbsp for HE Machines for regular soiled loads. For heavy soiled loads, you can up this to 1/4 cup.<br />
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For a printable version of these ingredients and directions, click <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/96624604">here</a>. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-75522509225396674292012-01-05T13:45:00.000-08:002012-01-05T13:46:01.754-08:00Reading Around the World: Studying World Cultures & Geography with Litterature<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This year one of our main themes has been an introduction to the great world we live in. My goal was to gently introduce to the kids to some other cultures while at the same time teaching them some very basic world geography. I have been using a combination of Sonlight and FIAR to teach this as well as a sprinkling of some of other great books.<br />
<br />
<br />
This year we have been going through the <a href="http://www.sonlight.com/core-p45.html">Sonlight P4/5 program</a> which gives preschoolers a great introduction to our world through the use of literature. We are loving the program, and I highly recommend it. We are also big fans of the <a href="http://fiarhq.com/fiveinarow.info/index.html">Five in a Row</a> (FIAR) books, so we have incorporated those into our day too.<br />
<br />
The existing P4/5 schedule is great as is. However, I have modified it slightly for our use, and I wanted to share how we are using the program. What I have done is to pull out all of the wonderful world culture stories in the Sonlight P4/5 program and grouped them by geographic region. This gives us time to fully immerse ourselves in the various cultures we are studying. So instead of skipping all around the globe, we get to spend a few weeks completely devoted to one culture/region. This gives us time to do all sorts of fun things together as a family. We might prepare and taste some traditional foods from the part of the world we are studying. Sometimes we might do a craft project together using inspiration from artists who live in that part of the world. Or, at other times, we might take a few days to learn some phrases from the language spoken in that part of the world. Basically---it gives us the time to really let all of those cultures sync in as we "read around the globe". I have also found that organizing the stories this way allows my very young children to really grasp the differences in cultures and people groups that can be found around the world. When we were jumping all around the globe, this didn't sync in as much. <br />
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<br />
In case anyone else is interested in reading around the world, I wanted to share our list of stories. You will notice that we have included a lot of other books besides those included in the Sonlight P4/5 program. Many of them are used in the Five in a Row program (another favorite of mine)...others are just good books that you can check out from your library.<br />
<br />
<b>How to use this study:</b><br />
1. Read through the stories at your own pace. Use the <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/77275023">sheet provided</a> as a checklist to track your progress.<br />
2. As you are reading, feel free to weave in some craft projects, music, language activities, recipes, or hands-on projects into your study. Do this as you have the time or your children are interested.<br />
<br />
<b>A NOTE ON PACING: </b> Included in this list are 166 readings. That may seem like a huge amount, but I have found that this is a good number to fill up a typical school year of 180 days. I personally make it a goal to read about a story per day. With holidays and other interruptions, this usually works out pretty well. Some days we read more, some days less. I always suggest reading as your children are interested and going at their own pace. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/77275023"><span style="font-size: large;">Download The Reading Check List Here</span></a></div><br />
<b>Book List for this study:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/075345999X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=075345999X">Around the World in 80 Tales</a>, by Saviour Pirotta, Illustrated by Richard Johnson<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0794526837/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0794526837">Usborne Stories from Around the World</a>, Retold by Heather Amery, Illustrated by Linda Edwards *<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0745960944/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0745960944">The Lion Storyteller Bedtime Book</a>, by Bob Hartman and Krisztina Kallai Nagy *<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/015204602X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=015204602X">Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems</a> by Judy Sierra<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1929122128/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=1929122128">New Toes for Tia</a> by Larry Dinkins *<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/997197293X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=997197293X">The Gods Must Be Angry</a> by Sheila Miller and Ian Murray *<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0919470025/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0919470025">Stories from Africa</a>, Written by SIM missionaries *<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/088899043X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=088899043X">Very Last First Time</a>, by Jan Andrews **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394898613/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0394898613">A New Coat for Anna</a>, by Harriet Ziefert **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1559420286/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=1559420286">Papa Piccolo</a> by Carol Tally **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1930900503/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=1930900503">Another Celebrated Dancing Bear</a> by Gladys Scheffrin-Falk **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0547076800/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0547076800">Grandfather’s Journey</a> by Allen Say **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670342599/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0670342599">The Glorious Flight</a> by Alice and Martin Provensen (France and English Channel) **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679880836/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0679880836">How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World</a> by Marjorie Priceman **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0517581329/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0517581329">Giraffe That Walked to Paris</a> by Nancy Milton **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698114434/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0698114434">Mirette on the High Wire</a> by Emily Arnold McCully **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1930900201/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=1930900201">A Pair of Red Clogs</a> by Masako Matsuno **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/159017206X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=159017206X">Wee Gillis</a> by Munro Leaf **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670013234/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=0670013234">The Story of Ferdinand</a> by Munro Leaf * **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448421658/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0448421658">The Story of Ping</a> by Marjorie Flack *, **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0156181924/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0156181924">The Clown of God</a> by Tomie dePaola **<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1849412855/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=1849412855">Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car</a> by John Burningham **<br />
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<i>---</i><br />
<i>* A Sonlight book</i><br />
<i>** A FIAR Book</i><br />
<br />
<b>General World Geography Books to Use for Reference:</b><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/087659190X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=087659190X">Global Art: Activities, Projects, and Inventions from Around the World</a> by MaryAnn Kohl-<br />
This is a great book to own, but most libraries will also have a copy of this that you can check out. There are lot of great projects that you can use at your discretion as you study the various cultures and countries. The projects are all rated by degree of skill...and I have found that many of the lowest rated projects are very appropriate for four and five year old children.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0789402017/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0789402017">Children Just Like Me: A Unique Celebration of Children Around the World</a> by Anabel Kindersley<br />
This is a great book for showing traditional clothing that other children wear around the world. This is also a fairly common book and most libraries will have a copy of this. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1579128327/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=1579128327">A Child's Introduction to the World Geography, Cultures, and People - From the Grand Canyon to the Great Wall of China</a> by Heather Alexander<br />
I am a big fan of the "Child's Introduction" series of books. So when a fellow sonligher recommended this book I was anxious to check it out. Our library didn't have a copy of it, so I had to bite the bullet and purchase it. I am glad I did. This is a great reference book with tons of ideas to incorporate into your study of the world. This book will really grow with the child and you will probably find you are using it for years to come. <br />
<br />
Also, try to get your hands on a nicely illustrated multi-cultural cookbook made just for kids. I would suggest hitting your local library and searching for a book there. There are many, many great versions of these types of books out there. If that is not possible, here are some to consider:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0471352519/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0471352519">Kids Around the World Cook!: The Best Foods and Recipes from Many Lands</a> by Arlette N. Braman<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0756637449/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=0756637449">Around the World Cookbook</a> by Abigail Johnson Dodge<br />
<br />
Another good resource to check out is some traditional music from the culture you are reading about. This is another resource that I would utilize the library for if at all possible. I highly recommend the <br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/entity/Putumayo-Presents-%28Series%29/B000AQ4EHE?ie=UTF8&ref_=ntt_mus_dp_pel&ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">Putumayo Presents Series</a> of world music CDs. Another great resource is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0052Q42L0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B0052Q42L0">Wee Sing Around the World CD</a>.<br />
<br />
Another resource is the continent song. We started off our study by learning the 7 continents on the globe. At first the kids just memorized the words to this song, however, eventually, they learned to start locating the continents on the globe. After you get the continents down, make it a goal to learn the various oceans.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/b2quKN3fyl0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-53987221601827043812011-12-12T15:44:00.000-08:002011-12-12T15:45:42.324-08:00Christmas Book Recommendations<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Christmas time is a wonderful time to snuggle together and enjoy a good book. Why not add a few of these titles to your library this Christmas and create a wonderful memory with a book? Giving children books for Christmas and birthdays teaches them that books are something to be treasured and valued. A book is also going to be more meaningful than many of the fad toys around today.<br />
<br />
These books have become integral parts to our families Christmas celebration. We read them together each year. They have become just as important as the stockings or the tree to my children! Make them a part of your Christmas tradition and you will be glad you did! Its easy...grab a cup of warm cocoa and a blanket and read! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8q9CxGA0rtk4utUdkW__YTOVqwVdlAjky6gJQA4ccXrFPb-lCJ2ILy2r-6I_-Fco2F1qKSg1rf_20pe_OCANTsGGV4cE6EDGZfSJaemeMY9-AEZWARXjFtF6NR3kON3AAkNjRd3d3cl8i/s1600/treasury+of+Christmas+stories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgMnB-CZIrl1_w4WZs77yvzM5nbXrE_YhF3sNyVfyQcX2oOI5CoKl8h5O31LDMX4Rj4oAI1EXJ-8i9s5Ga36VdmGiZb9T7PDGO-hUnC0WtUp223g74fUQ_pndU4pUXwLs-mpU5kilWJti/s1600/the-christmas-miracle-of-jonathan-toomey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgMnB-CZIrl1_w4WZs77yvzM5nbXrE_YhF3sNyVfyQcX2oOI5CoKl8h5O31LDMX4Rj4oAI1EXJ-8i9s5Ga36VdmGiZb9T7PDGO-hUnC0WtUp223g74fUQ_pndU4pUXwLs-mpU5kilWJti/s320/the-christmas-miracle-of-jonathan-toomey.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763636290/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0763636290">The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski</a>--Mr. Toomey is well known as the best woodcarver around. However, he is so solemn the village children have nicknamed him Mr. Gloomy. A widow and her son call on him and ask his help in carving a creche in time for Christmas. Little does he know it, but this job is one that will change his life. This story has quickly become a classic since it was first published in 1995. Children and adults love to read this heartwarming story. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLURdk9j8EigV7I-hVTGz_Fw1BaV6SYZ76fjo6se8_caZhttab1B_pDya34_54AnM7CiQ2k8wD5hQuYre0cTe6bBzjFAAm7UPphpx31AaxExuoCqLBGtYrnO9Q15CEVr-JiOvxDVjWPw6/s1600/polar+express.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLURdk9j8EigV7I-hVTGz_Fw1BaV6SYZ76fjo6se8_caZhttab1B_pDya34_54AnM7CiQ2k8wD5hQuYre0cTe6bBzjFAAm7UPphpx31AaxExuoCqLBGtYrnO9Q15CEVr-JiOvxDVjWPw6/s320/polar+express.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0395389496/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0395389496">The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg</a>--A little boy is swept away on a train late at night to the North Pole. Another modern day classic read aloud this time of year.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsrPKou3_3jPEI5i2m05x0gLDeE1Mmhp2BgoSDZkOdohIS1-uE-FYP6auC2sRI_HQAjQ1Xp6Hi1fjqJCH6pqsmykcpue12bVBaFCVn5eT1jhe8lPbgv-MfdP_HQr4ZyLdYN4c4FtZ88MNz/s1600/Christmas+cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsrPKou3_3jPEI5i2m05x0gLDeE1Mmhp2BgoSDZkOdohIS1-uE-FYP6auC2sRI_HQAjQ1Xp6Hi1fjqJCH6pqsmykcpue12bVBaFCVn5eT1jhe8lPbgv-MfdP_HQr4ZyLdYN4c4FtZ88MNz/s320/Christmas+cat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064432084/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064432084">The Christmas Cat by Efner Tudor Holmes</a>--A cat is left out on his own in the cold of winter after his family moves away and abandons him. A kind bearded man finds the kitty and brings him to a new home. Beautifully illustrated by the renowned Tasha Tudor, this is a very nice story to read together this Christmas.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFeRborTY8pSFRskWMheEbYXuNrzypYfW1oU0DjynJN9RXPeyQ0c5SEVq7NmFxvlPjT3OpZNF2xBfAUzUma7Xc8Koybv1bZhbMbHbtkVobUBBOwVfmpDUd-ok_tiyQHQZ2JY_pmIV0NYNR/s1600/Fletcher-and-the-Snowflake-Christmas-Rawlinson-Julia-9780061990335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFeRborTY8pSFRskWMheEbYXuNrzypYfW1oU0DjynJN9RXPeyQ0c5SEVq7NmFxvlPjT3OpZNF2xBfAUzUma7Xc8Koybv1bZhbMbHbtkVobUBBOwVfmpDUd-ok_tiyQHQZ2JY_pmIV0NYNR/s320/Fletcher-and-the-Snowflake-Christmas-Rawlinson-Julia-9780061990335.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><a href="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=httptheattach-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=006199033">Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas by Julia Rawlinson</a>-- We have always loved the Fletcher books ever since a friend introduced them to me. (There is one for every season...so check out the whole series!) In this story, the Rabbits have moved to a new burrow. Fletcher the fox has to help Santa find their new home. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIOc0efPpozlEysUX97Li7z87XiB6p2PuQCg9qBQ71jUM3wHcy3pMZH7Y8MuOXUVuBiUO0I5fEs2PSAHqveaZvCAH_RRQbycT1OSX2GnZeS5Ur327eqgCy62qk7akNhatrf3LPU9B7U9Nk/s1600/Silver+Packages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIOc0efPpozlEysUX97Li7z87XiB6p2PuQCg9qBQ71jUM3wHcy3pMZH7Y8MuOXUVuBiUO0I5fEs2PSAHqveaZvCAH_RRQbycT1OSX2GnZeS5Ur327eqgCy62qk7akNhatrf3LPU9B7U9Nk/s320/Silver+Packages.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/053130051X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=053130051X">Silver Packages: An Appalachian Christmas Story by Cynthia Rylant</a>--This story was inspired by the "Christmas Train" which rolls through the Appalachian Mountains each Christmas season. From this train, tons of toys are tossed to children who wait patiently by the tracks. Cynthia Rylant is one of my favorite children's offers. This is a very special book that helps remind us that Christmas time is not about receiving, but about giving. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmuOCiiaWwv__Va6fa37xYK0OpndY7RPldjh4NBYnUxUrgbNEEd9bd5RHDa-QQgXW4nBlX7ABiZgqpLZ7I5BZZqlJPt5YwJ0LzRj9lmHak1ioVlDs5S_jjSpcvh-14bnT8Xo4g8-4j4jB/s1600/The+Little+Fir+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmuOCiiaWwv__Va6fa37xYK0OpndY7RPldjh4NBYnUxUrgbNEEd9bd5RHDa-QQgXW4nBlX7ABiZgqpLZ7I5BZZqlJPt5YwJ0LzRj9lmHak1ioVlDs5S_jjSpcvh-14bnT8Xo4g8-4j4jB/s320/The+Little+Fir+Tree.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0064435296/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0064435296">The Little Fir Tree by Margaret Wise Brown</a>--The author of this book (most famous for her story <u>Good Night Moon</u>) tells an inspiring tale of a little fir tree growing by the edge of a forest. Every year a man comes and digs the fir tree up and brings him to his son's room for Christmas. The little boy is lame and can not get out of bed. Then every spring the fir tree is returned to the ground. Each year the fir tree grows bigger and stronger as does the little boy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEX1zenGQmGNZDi6KPwIwROjfymsAdDjoOgYV1HQ46K__AXt5EV-MHdQ1fQ-2xWnOY9oKDuX1vf_JcN08fVypEFxX4ZW-WGt3cXC0rvvqJm8wpI6LjJ2KILwpSZDb3aJxvVVchj2Kz_8fz/s1600/Rudolph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEX1zenGQmGNZDi6KPwIwROjfymsAdDjoOgYV1HQ46K__AXt5EV-MHdQ1fQ-2xWnOY9oKDuX1vf_JcN08fVypEFxX4ZW-WGt3cXC0rvvqJm8wpI6LjJ2KILwpSZDb3aJxvVVchj2Kz_8fz/s1600/Rudolph.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhYrA6qVXGhucEZnd8JIwHHSGacMtjGYrczhxja3HXdF1hLD1wVRrtmubK51IGy2zXY4BxsiV76KgVTEwFV8pvyZanNoMk_KePUnMozaa3-AmeH98Qk32x1z4FVhW18yy3gugykryB60A/s1600/frosty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhYrA6qVXGhucEZnd8JIwHHSGacMtjGYrczhxja3HXdF1hLD1wVRrtmubK51IGy2zXY4BxsiV76KgVTEwFV8pvyZanNoMk_KePUnMozaa3-AmeH98Qk32x1z4FVhW18yy3gugykryB60A/s1600/frosty.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OT2U50/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000OT2U50">Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/030702069X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=030702069X">Frosty the Snowman</a> -- These "Little Golden Books" are included here for nostalgic reasons. Many of my readers probably grew up reading Little Golden Books. They are still just as good today as they were when we were children. These two tales tell the classic tales of two famous Christmas characters. If you can find these classic books, GRAB them! The originals are definitely better than the newer golden books in my opinion. You can often buy them used on eBay and Amazon. My copies are from my childhood which makes them all the more valuable to me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPIMeMDcJdEPYIMlReg9bHVylpfbzijZvNVxc89E4Rkn2KCHiJG9UO0xJJjjk8GgC_DPI8-P0tW0Y7LiYeKD1rJ_UjDU5ge1Ks3o9EdclO1V5KTNowb5Jvr_MD5piUsBCIrrUfyeR5sqN/s1600/saint+francis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPIMeMDcJdEPYIMlReg9bHVylpfbzijZvNVxc89E4Rkn2KCHiJG9UO0xJJjjk8GgC_DPI8-P0tW0Y7LiYeKD1rJ_UjDU5ge1Ks3o9EdclO1V5KTNowb5Jvr_MD5piUsBCIrrUfyeR5sqN/s320/saint+francis.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525464808/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0525464808">Saint Francis and the Christmas Donkey by Robert Byrd</a>--Late one winter day in Italy, St. Francis the patron saint of animals, encounters an unhappy donkey. St. Francis tells him the story of his origins and the story of the "Christmas Donkey"-- The donkey who carried Mary over tough terrain to the city of Bethlehem.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_S7QAALjXOEJRIV_lHGtrjkKiaPvnhQIKJPLEO0I12OYzdskAjqwcNqDRrindUIrDoF5XjfV_VofN73uPewyKGs1aghv0QG4awuepv2FqVsdeTU5eWe47FshbSP6jkTgIl30rZiwT-wb/s1600/the-story-of-holly-and-ivy-by-rummer-godden-and-barbara-cooney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_S7QAALjXOEJRIV_lHGtrjkKiaPvnhQIKJPLEO0I12OYzdskAjqwcNqDRrindUIrDoF5XjfV_VofN73uPewyKGs1aghv0QG4awuepv2FqVsdeTU5eWe47FshbSP6jkTgIl30rZiwT-wb/s320/the-story-of-holly-and-ivy-by-rummer-godden-and-barbara-cooney.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142416835/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0142416835">The Story of Holly & Ivy by Rumer Godden</a>-- Ivy, who lives in an orphanage, wants a home for Christmas more than anything else. Ivy makes a wish. Holly is a doll left all alone in a toyshop window on Christmas Eve. More than anything, she wants a child's hands to bring her to life and play with her. Holly makes a wish. A childless couple have a beautiful Christmas tree and holiday feast, but long for a child to share it with also make a wish. This is a touching tale about the miracles that can sometimes happen around Christmas time. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbqa2wmE-y2CIIr2RnOrxod7mA-Jh7I7MgYcm-41-fwos6NfAfMSA8grvt2yCU_kyYkgDSk8dFh2mfQdYRUOeVOXlmsScWD0x17nrESM4iL2s1WBD8fB9o3W1UyAGvbMnRmy-V3eKPSu5m/s1600/badger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbqa2wmE-y2CIIr2RnOrxod7mA-Jh7I7MgYcm-41-fwos6NfAfMSA8grvt2yCU_kyYkgDSk8dFh2mfQdYRUOeVOXlmsScWD0x17nrESM4iL2s1WBD8fB9o3W1UyAGvbMnRmy-V3eKPSu5m/s320/badger.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1561486736/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1561486736">Grumpy Badger's Christmas by Pal Bright</a>-- The 'animal' version of the Christmas Carol: Grumpy Badger is trying to hibernate this winter but keeps getting woken up by the other animals preparations for Christmas. This book led to lots of great discussions on hibernation and what various animals will do to cope with the cold and short days of winter. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2lqvh9qafrV29pydMQU4pO7YtYtnsHNLspBRwWmNNPAiFCe3PhrRI-Wj_r1sh1h5W5c6HeovGO5PiJaRvrzRw4Rxiu4zjTtBEKdJlVFOvdLbisOzcXUQDBbcEXdagEoxVGMF2OR8WCZY/s1600/light+of+christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh2lqvh9qafrV29pydMQU4pO7YtYtnsHNLspBRwWmNNPAiFCe3PhrRI-Wj_r1sh1h5W5c6HeovGO5PiJaRvrzRw4Rxiu4zjTtBEKdJlVFOvdLbisOzcXUQDBbcEXdagEoxVGMF2OR8WCZY/s320/light+of+christmas.jpg" width="245" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689834683/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0689834683">The Light of Christmas by Richard Paul Evans</a>--This touching story teaches us that it isn't what you have to give that counts. It is how you give of yourself that counts.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpth50we_4VXhErJWZgRwZrI8MfbPEhMGHfT3NhFoXge7JVFoR1h2sgW18ofYSDTgTxGowbIj0cmpouaU33SdKiE6iiix-T2qZMcVMsDuMUbhtucHXXMXTlt6MPv6nrM9fJbR1D8sESQz6/s1600/The-Christmas-Candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpth50we_4VXhErJWZgRwZrI8MfbPEhMGHfT3NhFoXge7JVFoR1h2sgW18ofYSDTgTxGowbIj0cmpouaU33SdKiE6iiix-T2qZMcVMsDuMUbhtucHXXMXTlt6MPv6nrM9fJbR1D8sESQz6/s320/The-Christmas-Candle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="ttp://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416950478/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1416950478">The Christmas Candle by Jacob Collins</a>--This modern day fable is a story of how a Christmas Candle teaches a man the values of charity and goodwill. Beautifully illustrated!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6n9sB4HGlOkZdWza21NE8tM1B_V9macFV-P9PJKVIjNufUlXy3chXsUTbdRnn918lQi5gZNAagn-TtsFObVJIyapn20y1FJMVKzyexmtZtRc7slNwTxCv6fhm__5beOCiFbhcHmOIYAJ4/s1600/perfect+christmas+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6n9sB4HGlOkZdWza21NE8tM1B_V9macFV-P9PJKVIjNufUlXy3chXsUTbdRnn918lQi5gZNAagn-TtsFObVJIyapn20y1FJMVKzyexmtZtRc7slNwTxCv6fhm__5beOCiFbhcHmOIYAJ4/s320/perfect+christmas+tree.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0140558772/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=httptheattach-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0140558772">The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree by Gloria Houston</a> -- OK...I have to admit that after reading this aloud to my children, I was tearing up. But in a good way if that makes sense! This is SUCH a good book. It is a very sentimental <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8q9CxGA0rtk4utUdkW__YTOVqwVdlAjky6gJQA4ccXrFPb-lCJ2ILy2r-6I_-Fco2F1qKSg1rf_20pe_OCANTsGGV4cE6EDGZfSJaemeMY9-AEZWARXjFtF6NR3kON3AAkNjRd3d3cl8i/s1600/treasury+of+Christmas+stories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8q9CxGA0rtk4utUdkW__YTOVqwVdlAjky6gJQA4ccXrFPb-lCJ2ILy2r-6I_-Fco2F1qKSg1rf_20pe_OCANTsGGV4cE6EDGZfSJaemeMY9-AEZWARXjFtF6NR3kON3AAkNjRd3d3cl8i/s320/treasury+of+Christmas+stories.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-treasury-of-christmas-stories-gaby-goldsack/1007217129">My Treasure of Christmas Stories, illustrated by Caroline Pedler</a>- This anthology contains such classics as:<br />
The story of the first Christmas (retold from Luke 2:1-20),<br />
A Christmas Carol (retold from the story by Charles Dickens)<br />
The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore<br />
The Nutcracker (retold from a story by E.T.A. Hoffman)<br />
The Twelve Days of Christmas<br />
The Little Fir-Tree (retold from a story by Hans Christian Anderson)<br />
The Snow Queen (retold from a story by Hans Christian Anderson)<br />
I usually don't like stories that are re-told. However, I find this edition to be very nice. All of the stories are told in verse which the children loved. I also find that the versions of these stories still remain very true to the original tales and provide very young children a good introduction to these classics. If you can't find this particular anthology...OR if you have older children with longer attention spans, I highly recommend that you check them out. They are great classics for Christmas time.<br />
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Well Everyone...that is what is in my Christmas Book Basket this year. Have fun enjoying these books and others. Remember that you still can get free shipping on many of these items and before Christmas evestill receive them by Christmas Eve. <br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5315271713313762220.post-43527388707658422072011-11-13T07:53:00.000-08:002011-11-13T08:06:01.760-08:00Field Trip to the Fire Department<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">October* was National Fire Safety Prevention Month. So to celebrate the month we took a tour of a local fire department with some of our friends. The kids had a great time and I think they learned a lot.<br />
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*I know, I know...it is currently mid November. Sometimes I am a little late to download photos off of my camera. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyCcDJHM1BeaBhL1vmlubCBi0rsGj0YENHk4oU9qGByWGLiCgQgcZHch8jShDVUhWkxeBfizA-S_X7fsoEfq0wss8rG0VRqy4mX1Ckj9OiTHgBDagr9Fj9aR_bAoQpDBEU9h-XuRPFhiv/s1600/IMG_0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyCcDJHM1BeaBhL1vmlubCBi0rsGj0YENHk4oU9qGByWGLiCgQgcZHch8jShDVUhWkxeBfizA-S_X7fsoEfq0wss8rG0VRqy4mX1Ckj9OiTHgBDagr9Fj9aR_bAoQpDBEU9h-XuRPFhiv/s320/IMG_0682.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids and parents watching a film on fire prevention and safety.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDupeliT5mQNXC40F7WkjqVlxDpEf_mhEUpdzmQQdNalPRQzaKdrgZ6AYQGiag48MMxp60jcj0ATU4h0Vtssm0ybO4Ow-ma3a_NNQ2SNQbILrYS0c2pCW7U-JgTtq2Md_JT-56k6-1952/s1600/IMG_0684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDupeliT5mQNXC40F7WkjqVlxDpEf_mhEUpdzmQQdNalPRQzaKdrgZ6AYQGiag48MMxp60jcj0ATU4h0Vtssm0ybO4Ow-ma3a_NNQ2SNQbILrYS0c2pCW7U-JgTtq2Md_JT-56k6-1952/s320/IMG_0684.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a tour of the fire department. We got to see where the firefighters sleep and eat and how calls are answered.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5pMCsOQg0OcdthdoulmPfyL3PxgAnpzOYse677gVpwJT8-2tOvVROhU54nNM373KLhNeEZIGci23CfOl8Wj_QTwseVV0tNBou6sAVRhMl0LblUaH-dlQFAPqP5v7zBlUZILgNko_I5wh/s1600/IMG_0685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5pMCsOQg0OcdthdoulmPfyL3PxgAnpzOYse677gVpwJT8-2tOvVROhU54nNM373KLhNeEZIGci23CfOl8Wj_QTwseVV0tNBou6sAVRhMl0LblUaH-dlQFAPqP5v7zBlUZILgNko_I5wh/s320/IMG_0685.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids learned about some of the tools the firefighters use to fight fires and perform medical rescues.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlN98W3z2w5BZ02phPdade72dwnlH_HPB02GtbHQr3bhMipp78r7YYmlKLTZk7HxF0XRURd6UCReqcJyUNoljHRCIAB7-HXgjScRc1lpeZbgGzNL4hFnf91C3swl0iNN05nJbSMl2Cs8u/s1600/IMG_0687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlN98W3z2w5BZ02phPdade72dwnlH_HPB02GtbHQr3bhMipp78r7YYmlKLTZk7HxF0XRURd6UCReqcJyUNoljHRCIAB7-HXgjScRc1lpeZbgGzNL4hFnf91C3swl0iNN05nJbSMl2Cs8u/s320/IMG_0687.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids hanging out on the truck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNf3SfgSySICXEo7cpVaqI1u1jhyphenhyphenm2IFJe-FvZ_nkFGAX7ch7Zb3tJRWFOfyg8w33vrG1nvD4SmjRadh6y8Fl3tBq6sksMqnZl3kOggDYAuTIu4DE61RwqenwZWQjQtVGhB4owpteUKLmS/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNf3SfgSySICXEo7cpVaqI1u1jhyphenhyphenm2IFJe-FvZ_nkFGAX7ch7Zb3tJRWFOfyg8w33vrG1nvD4SmjRadh6y8Fl3tBq6sksMqnZl3kOggDYAuTIu4DE61RwqenwZWQjQtVGhB4owpteUKLmS/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim35PtAgbc6625iwOlWhVGtP_Qg3nHyfHQK60NWIQqPwL6uRzA7k5ZFuIo7EZqUIBVGoR_4gXdv0ffw5uwZevV3h4fnMkTVXSES1N0iLN9DK3_AbrKzB5I9_I0s9u94f27lvoWZ6RU8evH/s1600/IMG_0690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim35PtAgbc6625iwOlWhVGtP_Qg3nHyfHQK60NWIQqPwL6uRzA7k5ZFuIo7EZqUIBVGoR_4gXdv0ffw5uwZevV3h4fnMkTVXSES1N0iLN9DK3_AbrKzB5I9_I0s9u94f27lvoWZ6RU8evH/s320/IMG_0690.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids caught an inside look of the fire truck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedHh9TnfD0ELU5EJf-8RMew4hoylvIsurdRe4lOp_YLuOdabLpVOgUqDFXclIGKl2h-VKL531COHREqo6Npv3OpdYSUk1tR3OsfP9L3saw4VHXXWRl_4PWan2th3lWv9Ztue5EMRyuPPd/s1600/IMG_0691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedHh9TnfD0ELU5EJf-8RMew4hoylvIsurdRe4lOp_YLuOdabLpVOgUqDFXclIGKl2h-VKL531COHREqo6Npv3OpdYSUk1tR3OsfP9L3saw4VHXXWRl_4PWan2th3lWv9Ztue5EMRyuPPd/s320/IMG_0691.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus jumping out</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn3JBdTG2o2pA6j-lmc2hHi_ewB9IHEo_YNSv-ZkFDg7BMNok3EKHNqGWlzoIUmeWlxSImDtO-7O83VEE_ida7aQQYoMIKtVFQSBWKNH3uLVPQ4uLVoZOWma-wIXXdbkbMlGGLcso0zhd/s1600/IMG_0692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn3JBdTG2o2pA6j-lmc2hHi_ewB9IHEo_YNSv-ZkFDg7BMNok3EKHNqGWlzoIUmeWlxSImDtO-7O83VEE_ida7aQQYoMIKtVFQSBWKNH3uLVPQ4uLVoZOWma-wIXXdbkbMlGGLcso0zhd/s320/IMG_0692.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just being silly</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXz_1k3iRVH8M2qZTwVAaoGucH6Fot7rtoWkBFrfdm_YHkGpVyuBLuGV0PCFAUoVWjz70jbb5nygmzwJo24CFp-EkLB4xyi_238LT2T6Um6m_d_2j5v0rfwXNL0qL4uX819bCQWK6mS0e4/s1600/IMG_0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXz_1k3iRVH8M2qZTwVAaoGucH6Fot7rtoWkBFrfdm_YHkGpVyuBLuGV0PCFAUoVWjz70jbb5nygmzwJo24CFp-EkLB4xyi_238LT2T6Um6m_d_2j5v0rfwXNL0qL4uX819bCQWK6mS0e4/s320/IMG_0693.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0YFp43ZG6Gu91-L_baN-ifdlTGLI0RKfdvCSQEKAfh0Zz4GIbpzN2sKO7Vz4LxeGmpa6hjuxSRQWB22cstXRsuqm01vOL4wUztUiLAeP6WrD8Qf3-3yP1rIRilNTcvHA-RlWaG7W10t_/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0YFp43ZG6Gu91-L_baN-ifdlTGLI0RKfdvCSQEKAfh0Zz4GIbpzN2sKO7Vz4LxeGmpa6hjuxSRQWB22cstXRsuqm01vOL4wUztUiLAeP6WrD8Qf3-3yP1rIRilNTcvHA-RlWaG7W10t_/s320/IMG_0694.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the outfit Sophie picked out and demanded to wear. She is wearing her favorite black fur coat with her spiderman ball cap. She found this black fur coat at the thrift store and LOVES it. She says it is her "bear coat".</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3iQGPOjoBa7jd4iNKEb5unIfnU6X7P3VGFrU5DlV1_u61uTRKBoccIV78iuSRFgcMPhUe8YWReXAMPb2eyE75hwwiCyGzzi-oa4WNQcIucvxid0r2DgRvSjhU49p5SowH9Pa2Bm1uvSv/s1600/IMG_0695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3iQGPOjoBa7jd4iNKEb5unIfnU6X7P3VGFrU5DlV1_u61uTRKBoccIV78iuSRFgcMPhUe8YWReXAMPb2eyE75hwwiCyGzzi-oa4WNQcIucvxid0r2DgRvSjhU49p5SowH9Pa2Bm1uvSv/s320/IMG_0695.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sophie in her bear coat walking around.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjv8gm4DvaUA5LDsYfD2HzGZ12_ua4vpwulbKc7rzlun25F7Kg8L94FAGdtAerQOQv3D2VBtxIvhdPXS6-qZ7QwQyQalnU9uvhdipzyyeW6wVUIlD9Q0ad2-O05-MxYC2CB_lkX49yEMT/s1600/IMG_0696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjv8gm4DvaUA5LDsYfD2HzGZ12_ua4vpwulbKc7rzlun25F7Kg8L94FAGdtAerQOQv3D2VBtxIvhdPXS6-qZ7QwQyQalnU9uvhdipzyyeW6wVUIlD9Q0ad2-O05-MxYC2CB_lkX49yEMT/s320/IMG_0696.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After we saw the inside of the truck, the kids were invited inside to see the firefighter in his full gear.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO-SvgwJ6m_rj7krpigirGFYV-IP5MY5Be_zV4zuD-0WBsHa_IejnueXvAcYOU9Z2jh7I_LrF5zt1ZhT93401vWyrMwfw9JQmpxFMFTgGhxc7VLM8ej25iRwUGGUCet4BW06XLH-eL4fK/s1600/IMG_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO-SvgwJ6m_rj7krpigirGFYV-IP5MY5Be_zV4zuD-0WBsHa_IejnueXvAcYOU9Z2jh7I_LrF5zt1ZhT93401vWyrMwfw9JQmpxFMFTgGhxc7VLM8ej25iRwUGGUCet4BW06XLH-eL4fK/s320/IMG_0699.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The firefighter wanted the kids to see what he looked and sounded like in his gear. He explaided that often times kids are frightened when they see a fire fighter coming into their room and will run and hide from them. He wanted them to know that he was just a "regular guy" under all of this equipment, and they didn't need to be afraid of him. Marcus pointed out that he sounded a lot like Darth Vader with the mask on. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aODDD5R16KGuODjxUFw3iaOFQyxa1xkTXyzYfSrLVEoeq2dBfPqZiI3YkIJpV8NXkOjTIshO_0AX0paaiZ7i1AXnM3KzFDa_5utTTgNNaMmQhHhGtL7GmUHMI6uCeX_xTfNXUTkOhE93/s1600/IMG_0702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9aODDD5R16KGuODjxUFw3iaOFQyxa1xkTXyzYfSrLVEoeq2dBfPqZiI3YkIJpV8NXkOjTIshO_0AX0paaiZ7i1AXnM3KzFDa_5utTTgNNaMmQhHhGtL7GmUHMI6uCeX_xTfNXUTkOhE93/s320/IMG_0702.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sophie gave the firefighter a hug.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpWA8-kvYl8dLE1X7BPlB6zNjR-DoMpt8vHEo6TZXqTuB90KECVnUY0xbFuHzEgLHju8UnGmKgANNqwYNiOTlzpmBkpBIJSkMlIuH_KCPbNfe3q26cmUqsDBNMMfgqu2kuTUt7CUA5AlP/s1600/IMG_0703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpWA8-kvYl8dLE1X7BPlB6zNjR-DoMpt8vHEo6TZXqTuB90KECVnUY0xbFuHzEgLHju8UnGmKgANNqwYNiOTlzpmBkpBIJSkMlIuH_KCPbNfe3q26cmUqsDBNMMfgqu2kuTUt7CUA5AlP/s320/IMG_0703.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus giving the firefighter a hug.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8szz-BsZY5OAoP7ZbCPgQI-e7tI_uWIPVdsrojRaYo2Rr-XF1fC97nVRAnG6wBmRAF4ymf340e9aL0RolZP0InOJfg770gIroX7sqSLQJMEX1HQHPxJpxp9PU2wyasZEIuv0qkwq2qXyI/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8szz-BsZY5OAoP7ZbCPgQI-e7tI_uWIPVdsrojRaYo2Rr-XF1fC97nVRAnG6wBmRAF4ymf340e9aL0RolZP0InOJfg770gIroX7sqSLQJMEX1HQHPxJpxp9PU2wyasZEIuv0qkwq2qXyI/s320/IMG_0705.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They all tried to lift up some of the equipment. It was HEAVY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvV-7lDFoJQAUTC_jmo3wNF2hGUqPaMpmA427DyqJ51Uv0vVSkOoYq9Sr9rrm25uyw3Rn_9g7BghPmh1_iFU5uNGZ6UZYreR3CT9gxpyd1xlFnlKTuhjwMEccAXd3XEk7qEoC5HWW3PVLN/s1600/IMG_0707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvV-7lDFoJQAUTC_jmo3wNF2hGUqPaMpmA427DyqJ51Uv0vVSkOoYq9Sr9rrm25uyw3Rn_9g7BghPmh1_iFU5uNGZ6UZYreR3CT9gxpyd1xlFnlKTuhjwMEccAXd3XEk7qEoC5HWW3PVLN/s320/IMG_0707.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group Photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B0l5Srv-qtT7SFuTce67ekpjMCXwO8ETp6_e9klu8vRi3rIcADbEERMPl64cAox6A-aejZQlDA3BRGTq1lBGGHzK8kZ2HdHSpWPN_GmdFTxhIglcY0kOT16nikUJiDD-kZ0kL0oD1yK4/s1600/IMG_0710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B0l5Srv-qtT7SFuTce67ekpjMCXwO8ETp6_e9klu8vRi3rIcADbEERMPl64cAox6A-aejZQlDA3BRGTq1lBGGHzK8kZ2HdHSpWPN_GmdFTxhIglcY0kOT16nikUJiDD-kZ0kL0oD1yK4/s320/IMG_0710.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIhFxV3Gn-g4Sx8dB3uT5e6uKmPU121_pizKQCHU1Xb3bsNzg5OpacE-c04wl76Oz5rm45WdpDV767VXtjzzmpgS0FXCiDtV2nI-ypANA7ShcjrjCQ7FChufV0-f1NLHqgX70kW19yMV5/s1600/IMG_0713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIhFxV3Gn-g4Sx8dB3uT5e6uKmPU121_pizKQCHU1Xb3bsNzg5OpacE-c04wl76Oz5rm45WdpDV767VXtjzzmpgS0FXCiDtV2nI-ypANA7ShcjrjCQ7FChufV0-f1NLHqgX70kW19yMV5/s320/IMG_0713.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Links to become Attached to:</b><br />
<a href="http://1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com/">Tot School</a><br />
<a href="http://homeschoolcreations.blogspot.com/">Preschool Corner</a><br />
<a href="http://livinglifeintentionally.blogspot.com/2011/11/tgif-linky-party-5.html">TGIF</a><br />
<a href="http://chestnutgroveacademy.blogspot.com/p/field-trip-friday-blog-hop.html">Field Trip Friday Blog Hop </a><br />
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