Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR TODAY... Monday May 30th, 2011

Outside my window...  it is sunny and warm.. Suppose to hit 80 today with a chance of thunderstorms!

I am thinking… The start of a new week. Lots going on a few days this week. Plus the week starts with a holiday!

I am thankful for…..lots of things! The amazing people in my life that make me feel special!  

From the learning rooms…..… Day 153 today!

Monkey Boy-   is coming along great!  

Middle Monkey- is starting to read a chapter book.

Littlest Monkey- is reading level one books nicely now, so proud of her! 

You can read more about our Homeschooling over here.

From the kitchen…. . Not sure yet!! On my list of things to do, is our weekly menu… I’m a bit behind.

I am creating….Lesson planning for the first 25 weeks of school starting our new year in July!

I am wearing.. Jeans, t-shirt, flip flops!

I am going..  to the parade today here in town… My Monkey Man is in it for his Cub Scout pack!

I am hearing…..  Nothing my kids are still sleeping, but not for long. I’m usually up first to get a few things done before waking them.

I am reading… Nothing at the moment, but I have 4 books sitting on my night stand to start! You??

Around the house…. Nothing… I got laundry done yesterday so I could relax and have fun with my kiddo’s today!

One of my favorite things…  my kids play with the chickens.. they think they are the coolest things!

A few plans for the rest of the week….   Library,  Baseball games,doc appts, trip to the playground, make some cakes, b-day party this weekend, and lots of fun to be had!

 

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing…

Sorry, don’t have one again for you this week… I lost my card reader, and the one on my laptop isn’t reading my memory card… Trying hard to remedy the situation… You know how much I love pic’s!!!!

The Homeschool Mother’s Journal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In my life this week…

We tried really hard to get a lot done. In hopes to be done with school in a few more weeks. Fell behind a few times, so we are a bit further behind than I wanted, however we are getting there. My kids have no trouble doubling up to get done.  

In our homeschool this week…

We worked on lots of Grammar, and finished up some math.

We are done with Science for this year… and the kids are anxious to restart it already!

Reading is coming along great!

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

We really aren’t going anywhere special this week.

Hanging out with a few friends, and we are going to the Parade tomorrow!

My favorite thing this week was…

Listening to my Kindergartener reading level one books! She has come such a long ways in such a short time. I’m so proud of her!!!

What’s working/not working for us…

Binders for each person didn’t work for me… so we now are trying something different. (Let ya know how that works out)

Toying with the idea of Workboxes but would like some more info on them first.

Really trying to reorganize myself before the start of next year.

Homeschool questions/thoughts I have…

What is your favorite curriculum?? I love to hear what is great out there. I’m always researching. I have 3 different grades going, but their learning style is very similar.. (for the most part)

 

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education. “Albert Einstein”

*Join us by visiting “The Homeschool Chick”!

Five Question Friday

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Do you apologize to your kids?

If I have done something wrong. I want them to know and understand the value of apologize… and not always thinking they are right, or have a hard time admitting when they are wrong.

2. What color are your nails right now?

Natural… I very rarely paint my nails, cause they chip so fast, and I’m always working on something to get them nasty.

 

3. When you were growing up, how difficult was it for you to stay home from school sick? (As in, did you have to vomit or just say "I don't feel good".)

I really don’t remember… I think it depended on the mood my mom was in.

4. When is the last time you bought a new comforter for your bed?

A few months ago… we found a really nice one on clearance for 25 dollars… I love it!

5. Favorite website(s)?

Wow, I really have to many to list. I have a variety of school related ones, blogs, Facebook, and that about sums them up!

No-Work Spanish Audiobook Winner!!!

 

 

 

Sorry it took me so long to get this up… We have had rain here for the last 2 weeks, up until the middle of this week…. So the last two days, I have spent outside trying to get our garden in, and the lawn mowed! Oh my!

The Winner is!!!!

# 3

MrsScorziello said...

I like you on FB

 

Be on the lookout for an email from me!!!  

Congrats!

I hope everyone has a fabulous holiday weekend and stays safe!

 

Wednesday Hodgepodge

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. What is something about living in this country that you value? 'This country' is whatever country you call home.

Freedom, or what freedom we have left.  It appears to be diminishing these days.

2. What is a favorite something you own that is red, white, and/or blue?

I don’t think I have anything with all three colors on it. Maybe a shirt.

3. Do you fly a flag at your house on patriotic holidays?

Unfortunately,  we do not have one. I really should put one up.

4. What ingredients do you think should be included in a great picnic basket?

Watermelon, coleslaw, not sure what else. I am a sandwich fanatic, so probably some type of sandwich.

5. What is one interesting piece of trivia you know? Interesting is of course a relative term.

 Not really sure I know one….. at least off the of my head.

6. Wednesday, May 24th is National Escargot day...have you ever tried them? Eww or ooh?

No I have not, but I really don’t think I can bring myself too.

7. What is one thing you know for sure?

That I would do anything for my kids!

8. I can not believe that Friday is my birthday… Do you ever do anything big for your birthday?? 

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR TODAY... Monday May 23rd, 2011

Outside my window...  it is still dreary and blah… Really wish the rain would go away. 2 weeks, is just to much!

 

I am thinking…  A nice calm week ahead… and to finish off the week, my birthday.

I am thankful for…..the amazing privileges I get in my life. It may not be easy, but someone always has it worse.

From the learning rooms…..… Day 148 today!

Monkey Boy-   is coming along great!  

Middle Monkey- is starting to read a chapter book.

Littlest Monkey- is reading level one books nicely now, so proud of her! 

You can read more about our Homeschooling over here.

From the kitchen…. . Spanish Pot Roast, a new recipe we are trying out.  

I am creating…. Curriculum still, it’s a slow process… ah!

I am wearing.. Jeans, t-shirt, and a sweatshirt (finally warming up)

I am going..  pray we get a bit of sun shine this week, so we can finish planting some crops, and hope that our seeds don’t rot from to much water.

I am hearing…..   Silence! Love it!  

I am reading… Nothing at the moment, need to swing by the library today… Need another book.

Around the house…. Cleaning the bathroom (most hated job) and then fold some laundry.

One of my favorite things…  Watching my kids discover things.

A few plans for the rest of the week….   Library,  Baseball games, maybe a movie, not much this week.

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing…

Don’t have one this week… haven’t really been taking any, to much rain. Be back next week with a good one!

The Homeschool Mother’s Journal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In my life this week…

We struggled a lot with the weather. This rain, has really got us all in a bad mood, and very crabby. Hope to see the sun soon!

In our homeschool this week…

We worked on our normal stuff, and then did a bit of classification of animals. 

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

This week we didn’t really see anyone, or go anywhere special. With the rain, we have been right at home… and most of the kids are fighting off a cold.

My favorite thing this week was…

The fact that my middle girl mastered doing 3 digit addition without tears! Now on to Subtraction.

Plus my youngest is reading aloud so much. I love to just catch her and hear how well she is doing. (I stop and think.. I really taught her how to read!!)

 

What’s working/not working for us…

Being more organized is working much better for me. Certainly learned a lot over the first year…

Nothing that we are doing currently is not working for us.

Thinking next year may be a challenge for us, since my son will be getting more work. Lets cross our fingers for good things to come!

Homeschool questions/thoughts I have…

I’m always open to any organization or curriculum advice anyone has. I love to learn new ways to approach things all the time.

 

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

I don’t really have any today to share… will be looking for a great one for next week. Since this is my first time posting on here.

If you wanna see more about our homeschooling journey feel free to stop by “The Monkey School”

 

 

To join in or see others posted visit http://www.thehomeschoolchick.com/about-the-homeschool-mothers-journal/

Girl’s First Daisy Sleepover

 

 

First off, I have to say… My girl’s had the best Daisy Leaders ever! They were amazing with these girls, and are so awesome!

They planned a really cool sleepover! We had so much fun!

Friday we arrived, and went on a scavenger hunt. Can never go wrong with that right?? After snack time, we built a stone fire pit.  Which was very amusing, but we did it! Next up was dinner, and then we got ready for our fire, and S’Mores!!! Yum!!!

 

Saturday after we woke up and had breakfast… And the mommy’s had coffee to keep going! We were off and running! We had some activities and then got the fire pit going to get ready for the ceremony, and bridging!

Around noon, the daddy’s starting showing up. We started the ceremony where to the Daisy’s got their patches….. and the Brownies, did their bridging.

 

 

Littlest Monkey is still a Daisy! She was so excited to get her patches. Middle Monkey bridged to Brownies and is beyond excited. She will now be in my troop. I’m super proud of them both! Great jobs girls!

The beauty of Maine….

 

 

 

is really amazing sometimes. This past week, we had the opportunity to visit a Wildlife Park through our Homeschool Co-op. Since we had never been there, we were really excited.

We took a class, the kids got to learn about Bald Eagles. They learned some really cool facts. Then they got to meet a real live Bald Eagle, he was injured as a baby after falling 70ft from his nest, during a bit of a wind storm. So one of his wings, had to be amputated.

There is a huge amount of animals at this park. Such as Moose, Deer, Skunks, porcupines, Bob Cats, Bears, Fox, Turtles, Eagles, Owls, and Hawks.  Here are a few more pictures.. you can see more about our Field Trip on our Homeschool Blog.

 

 

 

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR TODAY... Monday May 16th, 2011

Outside my window...  Yucky, and rainy… Hoping it doesn’t last all week like they say it will.

I am thinking…  going to take a few days and rest. So tired lately.

I am thankful for….. My family and friends.

From the learning rooms…..… Day 143 today!

Monkey Boy-   is coming along great!  

Middle Monkey- is starting to read a chapter book.

Littlest Monkey- is reading so good!!  

You can read more about our Homeschooling over here.

From the kitchen…. . Cheese burgers tonight!

I am creating….  lots of stuff for next years school schedule, menu plans, and to-do lists.

I am wearing.. Jeans, t-shirt, and a sweatshirt (finally warming up)

I am going..   to work on lesson plans.

I am hearing…..   My kids talk, and think about the day’s plans.

I am reading…   Nothing right now, need to order some more books from the library.

Around the house…. chores, and paperwork

One of my favorite things…   spending time with my family.

A few plans for the rest of the week….  Library, time with a friend, Baseball games, Doc appt, 4H, visit with family. Lots to keep us busy!

 

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing…

From the girl’s first Daisy Sleep over…..

 

Five Question Friday

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Tube socks, calf socks, crew, ankle, none?

Well… I’m not a huge fan of socks, and during the summer VERY rarely ever wear them.

If I have to though, I prefer crew or ankle socks.

 

2. Was your childs (children's) name a mutual decision or was it a debate? If you don't have children, do you plan on giving your spouse a say, or do you have a name you MUST have, regardless if your other half likes it or not?!

My son’s name was one I had wanted for a long time, and my hubby did not argue. Middle girl’s name is after both grandma’s… and really neither of us had a choice. Lol… My youngest was a joint decision, plus she is named after a great grandmother.

 

3. What is your favorite type of weather?

My favorite weather is spring and fall. Warm but a cool breeze and no bugs… Never lasts long enough.

4. If left to your own devices, what time would you wake up every day?

I always wake up on my own… I’m not a good sleeper, never really have been. So I’m up by 7am everyday, most days earlier. I’ve always been jealous of people who could sleep til 11 or later. Wish I could just do it once. On the other hand though, I would feel like most of my day is gone.

 

5. Have you bought your cemetery plots yet?

Nope, and I’m not sure I can bring myself to do so yet. Don’t really like to think about it, although I know I probably should.

Spring is here… that can only mean one thing….

 

 

that it is time to start gardening again… Or continue if any of you have a winter garden.  I’ve never been a huge gardener, as I really don’t have the best green thumb. However, times have changed, and we have changed.

As many of you have read a bit more… we moved back from Florida and are now living with my mother, to help assist her with her house, and land.. now that my step father has progressed further in his Alzheimer's . 

So with a limited income, and us traveling further for work, and gas prices sky rocketing… it is necessary for us to do what we can to cut cost.

First we started with chickens, which you can read more about here. Now we are doing lots of gardening, so this fall we will becoming canning fools!

Since we are also in 4H and our group is doing a “Kids Can Grow” program this year..we are also doing some for that. We are doing square foot gardening which after doing lots of reading about it, I’m really thinking this will work nicely for us.

We made some 4ft X 4ft beds at home for that. Then we also made two more beds for more stuff. We are planting lots of produce! I can’t wait to eat some! YUM!

Here are some pictures of our adventures so far.

So far we have, Swiss Chard, Spinach, Broccoli, Cabbage, Lettuce, Peas, Carrots, Beets, and herbs planted.

Are you planting a garden this year??

Wednesday Hodgepodge

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. How many times in your life have you moved house?

More than I care to count. At least 25 I’m sure…Hopefully no more for awhile. But only time will tell.

2. What subject would you study if you had a year to devote to it?

Hmmm.. not really sure. Culinary Arts maybe. I love to cook, but would like to be better at it, and be able to impromptu cook better.

3. What in this world breaks your heart?

There are many things in this world that break my heart. The fact that no one can be nice to each other, the crime rate, natural disasters, homeless, orphanages, and that people are going hungry. No jobs… I could go on for days!

4. What is one item that symbolizes the times in which we live? Why?

I would have to say the cell phone… most people have one, and they are widely used. Taken over our country really. With that being said, I really think that they are useful.

5. Share a favorite bumper sticker or t-shirt slogan.

Not sure I really have a favorite. Seen some cute Unsocialized Homeschooler ones.

6. How do you like your spaghetti?

With Angel hair pasta, and just a simple hamburger and sauce over it. With Garlic bread of course!!!

7. What is one piece of advice you would give a recent, or soon to be recent, graduate?

Welcome to the real world! Its no longer as easy as you remember it. Don’t go crazy, and keep your credit score up. Live simple…

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Today is my husband’s birthday!

Baseball Season is here!!

 

 

So Monkey Man is playing baseball again this year! This is his 4th year! Wow, doesn’t seem possible.

Many differences this year though, we are back in Maine, so he is in a small town rec team. Where as the last two years where in a big city league.

He is doing great so far this season. We are only one game in, and they didn’t win.. but they gave it a good shot!

Here are a few shots of my little man!

Ready to bat!

He is getting so big!

Go Monkey Man!!!!!

Simple Woman’s Daybook:

 

 

 

 

 

FOR TODAY... Monday May 9th, 2011

 

 

Outside my window... it is lovely, just a bit windy. 

 

I am thinking…    Lots to get done this week, and tons of hard work.

 

I am thankful for….. the time I spend with my family. 

 

 

From the learning rooms…..… Day 137 today!

Monkey Boy-   is doing great!  

Middle Monkey- is getting so good at lots of stuff!

Littlest Monkey- is reading level one books nicely now, so proud of her! 

You can read more about our Homeschooling over here.

 

From the kitchen……. Tonight is Homemade Pizza.

 

I am creating….     Plans for next year’s lessons (still)

 

I am wearing.. Jeans, t-shirt, and a sweatshirt finally warming up!

 

I am going..  try to keep healthy now that I feel better.

 

I am hearing…..   My kids count, and read their instructions, as they do school work.

I am reading…    “Magic Hour”  

 

Around the house….  Couple loads of laundry, dishes, and we made 3 of our Raised beds.

 

A few plans for the rest of the week….  Baseball Game, Hubby’s B-day, Visit with some friends,Field Trip, Girl Scouts, Sleepover.

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing….

Just hanging out!

 

No-Work Spanish Audiobook Review

My girls started in Public school in Florida. When entering the school district, they had the option to enroll in the Dual Language Class. Which meant, that they had English for half the day, and then Spanish for half the day. To help aid in the learning of Spanish, their classrooms were mirror imagines, except all words where in Spanish, and the teachers only spoke Spanish. I was worried at first as this was their first time being exposed to this Language. Totally immersion seemed extreme. However, I must say they both did very well with it. We were only in that district for a year, and a few months, so my youngest didn’t get as much.

Middle Monkey did however, and she was really enjoying Spanish. My theory was that in Florida it was good for them, as most the students in the school where Hispanic. If they wanted to make friends, they had to learn to communicate right??

So, when we moved back to Maine. Middle Monkey was a bit upset that we were no longer learning Spanish. I promised to do my best to find a program that would work for their age. This year, I had not yet been successful in this. Middle Monkey still says some words and reads a book with have with Spanish in it, to keep up on what she does know. After all, the do say that the younger they are the better they learn and retain it right?
We were excited as a group to get this opportunity to try to Learn Spanish Audiobook. The concept behind this Spanish Audiobook is that there is no Homework, Language Drills, or work. You just listen and learn. The Audiobook plays in English first, then it repeats in Spanish. Then at the very end of the chapter it says the whole chapter in Spanish.

 No-Work Spanish Audiobooks, has two books to offer right now.

• Yaks march on Washington: Which is a true story about an Idaho Rancher who travels across country with his trusty dog, and his Yaks.
•  Poster Girl: Which is about a girl trying to outdo a goody two- shoes student and about problems that might happen if you start a school project the night before its due.

This one is coming soon…. The Case of a missing Poodle: Which is about an eleven year old traveling to see his cousin’s wedding, and he suddenly gets the chance to win $100,000.

A great resource that they also offer is that you can get PDF Copies of Texts of the books. As well as Comprehension practice tests for those in higher grades. If you want to make sure they are going at the right speed.

Due to our busy schedule we spend a lot of time in the car, so we found that was the best time to listen. Pop one in and listen to it. The first few times through my kids looked sort of confused.
As the weeks went on, I heard them telling the story in English, and then they would try to repeat it in Spanish. They have picked up a few words in Spanish, but still do not really know a lot.
I would recommend this for older students. I think that my kids may be to young still to listen and get the right comprehension for these words. My children are only 6, 8, and 9 though. I think that this might be perfect for High School Students.
Not that we are giving up. We still continue to listen to the story in the car, and the kids still are trying to master that Spanish version. I’m not sure I would have bought these for my kids due to their age. If I had a high school student I am sure I would have though!

Buy them:
You can buy No-Work Spanish Audiobooks, for $21.95 for both Titles. Or you can get them on Amazon, or you can download the MP3.


Still not sure?? Read some of the Testimonials from other buyers!
Also look for them on Facebook!

Win it:
Thanks to No-Work Spanish, I can offer two lucky readers one audiobook. Please visit No-Work Spanish and tell me which one you would like to win. (Mandatory to enter)
Additional Entries:

• Follow 3 Crazy Monkey’s on Twitter
  
• Like 3 Crazy Monkey’s on Facebook
  
• Like No-Work Spanish on Facebook
  
• Blog about it and leave me the link (worth 3 separate Entries)

Giveaway open to US Residents only!
Giveaway will end May 25th @ 10pm EST. Winner will be chosen by Random.org and will have 48hrs to respond, or I chose a new winner.
*Per rules of MamaBzz only one winner per Mamabzz Giveaway.

*This is a MamaBuzz review. The product was provided by: No-Work Spanish for this review.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Have you ever been served breakfast in bed? Do you enjoy that? If someone were serving you breakfast in bed this coming weekend what would you hope to see on the tray?

Yes, my husband and kids usually do it every year for my birthday or Mother’s day. (which is in the same month) I love French Toast with Fresh Strawberries. YUM!

2. What is one piece of advice you would give a new mother?

Take time for yourself. Your only human, and the small things can wait. Time goes by so fast, cherish every moment you have with your babies!

3. When was the last time you wanted to scream? Explain.

Yesterday… I have been wicked sick, and all I wanted to do was sleep. Well, my kids kept coming in and out and stomping on the floor, or slamming doors every time I just fell asleep!

4. Can you hula hoop?

Yes I can, not very good, but can do it! Love to watch my kids learn its, cute!

5. What is something people do in traffic that really bothers you?

Slam on their brakes for no reason, or pull out in front of you and go extremely slow!

6. What do you do when people don't admit they're wrong?

Nothing, they will figure it out sooner than later!  

7. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word 'fun'?

Camping and time at the beach! Can’t wait!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Wish the rain would go away!!!

We have baby chicks!!!

 

 

 

We had been thinking about getting chickens for a bit. As a family of 7, we go through lots of eggs, on any given day.  Plus the kids wanted the challenge of taking care of the chickens.

An opportunity arose from 4H where we were able to get 10 chickens. So, we choose to get some Buff Orpingtons. While we were awaiting the arrival date of those, my mom decided to also get another 20 chickens. We got a variety of Bared Rocks, and Rhode Island Reds..

Then a bit later this month, we are getting some meat chickens too. This is a new adventure for me and my kids, and we are pretty excited to be along for the ride!

Here are the pic’s of some of our new little Chicks that arrived last week! 

Buff Orpington

Bared Rocks

Rhode Island Red

Aren’t they so cute??

Simple Woman's Daybook:

 

 

 

 

FOR TODAY... Monday May 2nd, 2011

Outside my window... it is a beautiful day outside, that I can not be part of cause I’m stuck in here “resting” since I’m sick. Blah!

I am thinking…    What a long weekend, but it was a fun one.

I am thankful for….. The amazing opportunities my kids get.

From the learning rooms…..… Day (not sure where we are lost track) today!

Monkey Boy-   is doing great!  

Middle Monkey- is getting so good at lots of stuff!

Littlest Monkey- is reading level one books nicely now, so proud of her! 

You can read more about our Homeschooling over here.

From the kitchen…. . Easy Peasy Fish Sandwiches.

I am creating….     Plans for next year’s lessons (still)

 

I am wearing.. Jeans, t-shirt, and a sweatshirt finally warming up!

 

I am going..   to try to rest (very hard thing for me to do) so I can get rid of this crud!

I am hearing…..   My kids playing nicely, and talking about going outside.

I am reading…   Want to start “Not my daughter” but haven’t had time lately.

Around the house….  Not much today… don’t really feel like doing much.

A few plans for the rest of the week….  Nothing much…. Baseball Practice a few nights, and then 4H, and a Clean up Project this weekend.

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing….

This is the new fire pit that the cub scouts made.

 

The Winner is….

 

 

 

Congrats #2

Angie said...

already follow manhattan toys on twitter as @angiewith3

Thank you to all those who entered… and be sure to stop back by to see what our next giveaway is!

The winner has 48hrs to respond our I have to chose a new winner.

 

HexBug Party

 

 

 

I got an offer to do a HexBug Nano Party, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Since Monkey Boy’s birthday always falls close to Easter, we usually tie it in somehow. Well this year, we were having a hard time coming up with an idea… until we received the HexBug Nano Easter Eggs.

In our Party package was a Starter kit, and 10 Hex Bug Nano Easter Eggs, with bugs of different colors, with bunny ears on. They were rather cute!

My kids where really excited to play with them, so holding them off til our party was a challenge!

In the egg

On the day of the party, we hid the eggs outside and gave each child a clue to find their bug egg. After everyone had found theirs they came in and played with them on the floor, and in the Starter kit.

 

Two of the bugs

One with Bunny ears

All the kids had a wonderful time, and we really enjoyed playing with the HexBugs. Even the adults got into playing with them.

 

Do your kids have HexBugs?

 

*Product was supplied by MommyParties, in order to write this post. All opinions are mine or my monkey’s.