Saturday, February 28, 2009

K-Doodle Turns Six!

Today our little K-Doodle turned six years old! She had a fun day with the family at home and then went on a surprise trip to Medieval Times in Atlanta. The whole family went, including Nanny and Grandaddy! Both K-Doodle and C-Sunshine really got into the battle of the Knights. We were rooting for the Red Knight, but unfortunately he was defeated in battle. It was fun seeing the Knights after our study of Medieval History last year. K-Doodle's Big sister Amber was here to share in the fun.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Small Successes

FaithButton

It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that.

1 - I have finally written down and posted a morning and evening routine for my very type A daughter C-Sunshine. It is also complete with pictures for my little K-Doodle.

2 - I have special surprises and activities planned for K-Doodle's 6th birthday including a trip to Medeivel Times on her birthday and a dinner with extended family the day after.

3 - I have done a MOUNTAIN of laundry and have made peace with my washer and dryer whom I have hated for years. They are now my friends. :)

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Preparing Our Homes and Hearts during Lent

As I am reflecting on the beginning of this Lenten season, I can across this Clearing Spaces challenge from Sarah, a fellow 4Real mom. What a great idea! The challenge began on Monday, but I thought it would be appropriate to begin on Ash Wednesday as well. Here are my hotspots for clutter that I will be working on.

1. Pantry
2. School room book shelves
3. Girls Closets
4. Master Closet
5. School Room Closet
6. Kitchen cabinets
7. Garage (oh so not a joy0

Clearly our homes and hearts, preparing them for His blessings. Peace be with you.

Friday, February 13, 2009

A "Sweet Day" Planned

Today after schooling, we will be off to a homeschool valentine's day party at Jumping Jelly Beans. You remember, the local "jumpy thingy" place. The girls have been busy decorating their special valentine boxes (found pattern here) to receive those ever so important Valentine's! They have also worked on getting their treats ready to pass out. All of my girls have always LOVED Valentine's day. It's all about Pink and Sweet. Sounds girlie to me. The little girls have some special treats planned for their Daddy tomorrow and are looking forward to a special dinner with their "Sweetie". So am I.... What are you doing for Valentine's Day?

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Happy Birthday Abe!


Moving from Illinois, I know what a special day today is for the state. It is the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birthday! So, Happy Birthday Abe! We are going to read several books about Abe today and make a craft. If you ever get the chance to go to the Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield, Illinois, I highly recommend it.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Simple Woman's Daybook Entry


For Today...

Outside my window... the sun is rising, but the clouds are hiding it behind their gloom. It is suppose to be around 60 today with rain showers.

I am thinking... about all the valentine's that we need to make for the upcoming valentine's day parties along with those valentine boxes!

From the learning rooms... I am thinking about next years curriculum that I am going to use for C-Sunshine for 4th grade. I have been looking into Rod and Staff but would like a gentler CM style of learning, but can't find one that fits. Although I love the style that CM teaches about, it does not seem to be working with C-Sunshine who likes structure.

I am thankful for...my hard working husband, who has been working 12 hours days, seven days a week for a long while. I am also thankful he has a job to go to each day. He is such a terrific hubby and father.

From the kitchen... baking black berry and blue berry muffins, chocolate chip cookies and whole wheat bread for the week.

I am wearing... red striped pajama's and white socks!

I am reading... Home Comforts, trying to work on a better household routine.

I am hoping... for some time with my husband this valentine's day!

I am creating... a spot where I can do some scrapbooking this week.

I am hearing... the silence! No one is up yet. :)

Around the house... I am need to tame that Laundry Monster. Where does all the laundry come from?

One of my favorite things... All my daughter's giggling together.

A few plans for the rest of the week... gymnastics class, homeschool group valentine's party, girl scouts and a special family valentine dinner.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...
Sister love!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Some Changes Going On

This is a look into our pantry. Notice anything different? I have recently taken some time to dig deeper into the benefit of eating whole, organic foods. I already knew that artificial colors really affected my little gal, D-Doodle. I have always been a fan of whole foods, but have recently been convicted to feed my family properly all the time. Not just when it was convenient. For us, this includes eating organic and local when we can. Because organic is more expensive, I sought out a local whole foods coop through the United Buying Club. I also found a local organic produce coop where we can pick up once a week. I can't believe the amount of fruits and veggies that I get for $43.00! One of the many benefits of living in the south. (Right next to all that Southern Hospitality)

Because organic food is more expensive, I don't buy as many convenience foods. I bake our bread, muffins, cookies, etc... This in itself is a benefit. This doesn't mean I don't buy a few boxes of Annie's Bunnies. :) I must say that K-Doodle in particular is affected by sugar she takes in when we are out and about. A little candy here.....and it gets her craving for sugar right back. She gets this honest... I have a love for sugar myself.

Doing a lot of baking has proven to take time. Well, duh! Between homeschooling, cooking, cleaning and now doing a lot of baking, I am looking into making a much better routine for our week. But that's a post for another day. I will be listed to great books I have been reading about foods soon. Wishing you all a great week. ~ Kat

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

The February Blahs

Does anyone else feel the effects of February in their homeschool? My body is recovering from the over eating from the holidays and my mind is racing to our next school year. My "present" is affected by my lack of planning in the "now". That can lead to days of CHAOS in our homeschool. I need to STOP and live in the present. Get back to the even flow of just getting through the curriculum we have and enjoy and not think about all those good things that are out there for next year. Keep my eye on the prize and continue working towards good "habits" for a lifetime of learning. Yes, .... keep looking forward! Hope you are all having a good week. - Kat