tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28168098062338354922024-03-13T13:03:28.129-04:003 Crazy Monkey'sThe Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.comBlogger1574125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-12446719272802429552013-11-13T12:53:00.001-05:002013-11-13T12:53:59.154-05:00TOS Crew: Apologia Chemistry and Physic’s Review<p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/logo_zpsd1be877b.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/logo_zpsd1be877b.jpg"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">We LOVE science in this house! I mean, like really love it! So when we got offered the chance to review <a href="http://apologia.com/index.asp?proc=pg&pg=1" target="_blank">Apologia Educational Ministries</a>, <a href="http://shop.apologia.com/chemistry-and-physics/379-exploring-creation-with-chemistry-and-physics.html" target="_blank">Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics</a>. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">First off I have to tell you that I really love Apologia. They have amazing science curriculum. I was not disappointed with this new one either. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Apologia Educational Ministries is really well know in the homeschooling community for their curriculum. They have a great education with the focus on God, and how it all works. </font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/chemistry2_zpsf5580e2f.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/chemistry2_zpsf5580e2f.png" width="294" height="398"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">We got a 280 page hardcover text book, with 14 lessons to be spread over the course of a year. Their recommendation is that you do what is best for your family. Depending on the ages of your children you may want to spread the lessons out over a longer period of time.</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>How we used this. . .</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font size="4">We chose to do a lesson a week. That way we spread the reading, activities, and experiments out over the week. The book is very well written, and things are very clear. I usually read half the chapter to my kids, and then we would do some of our notebooking. The next time I would finish the rest, and we would do the activities. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">The hands on activities are the most favorite among my kids. We made our own lava lamp, and so much more! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt=" photo juniornotebookingjournal_zpsa179a078.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/juniornotebookingjournal_zpsa179a078.png" width="291" height="373"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">I have two kids. . . one in 3rd grade, and one in 6th. It is really nice to be able to just use two different notebooking journals, and teach the same subject. This saves me so much time! I love it! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/notebookingjournal_zpsaa83790f.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/Apologia%20Chemistry/notebookingjournal_zpsaa83790f.png" width="316" height="408"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Each notebooking journal is around 237 pages, and spiral bound, so it is easy to use, and stays together nicely. Great for flipping back and forth during your lesson!</font><font size="4"> I used the junior one with my youngest, and the regular one with my oldest. In the front of the journal is a suggest daily schedule, you can follow if you like. I usually look at it, then use it as a guideline. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Our thoughts:</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font size="4">My kids love these science books! They are already asking me what one we are going to use next! They love that they are so full of facts, but have great hands on learning to go with it.</font></p> <p><font size="4">I love that I can let them go read the lesson, and its not to hard for them. Each one has their own notebooking journal so they can work at their level. All while I teach one subject from one book! This really helps me cut down on our school time, and the amount of prep I have to do. </font></p> <p><font size="4">We really love Apologia, and will continue using them for a long time to come! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font size="4">The textbook is<strong><em> $39</em></strong> and each Notebooking Journal is<strong><em> $24</em></strong>. Really a great deal for such a wonderful curriculum! </font></p> <p><font size="4">I have priced many, and this is by far the best deal I have found yet! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/apologia-chemistry-physics-science-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about this curriculum! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-17435885328604825632013-11-13T11:41:00.001-05:002013-11-13T11:41:37.732-05:00TOS Crew: French Essentials Review<p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="French Essentials LOGO photo frenchessentiallogo_zps55e20538.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentiallogo_zps55e20538.jpg" width="439" height="96"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4">I remember my French class back in the day. I had such a hard time remembering the words. I was not very good at pronouncing them either. My kids love to learn new languages, its great to see them succeed so well. We have been doing a bit of Spanish the last year, so we were excited to review <a href="http://frenchessentials.com/" target="_blank">French Essentials</a>. Where I received the <a href="http://www.frenchessentials.com/subscibe" target="_blank">Full Access Online Program</a> for one year. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>How it works:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font size="4">French Essentials is an online-based program developed by French teachers. This program is designed for the home learners of the world. You download lessons to teach, which is all in step-by-step plans. You don’t need previous knowledge of French. Which was great for me! <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" style="border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none" alt="Smile" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Uc9_TUTWA_I/UoOrwFXcOxI/AAAAAAAAKEc/u4fWH1QXM4o/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800"> All and all it really covers all types of learners as well with audio, video, and writing. </font></p> <p><font size="4">However, there are some system requirements for this:</font></p> <p><font size="4"><strong>Mac:</strong></font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">Adobe Flash Player</font></li> <li><font size="4">Adobe Reader</font></li></ul> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong>Windows:</strong></font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">Quick Time</font></li> <li><font size="4">Adobe Flash Player</font></li> <li><font size="4">Adobe Reader</font></li></ul> <p> </p> <p>*You can download all of the above for free. </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4">They do recommend that your child is in third grade before they start the program. There currently only 5 Modules available. </font></p> <p><font size="4">This is how it goes:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">Grades 4/5 – 7/8 – Modules 1-5</font></li> <li><font size="4">Grades 8/9 – Modules 5 & 6 </font></li> <li><font size="4">Grades 10/12 – Modules 7-10 </font></li></ul> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">My two kids that are in 3rd and 6th grade both started from the beginning and they did great! We have made it to lesson 8. You can have your child take a <a href="http://www.frenchessentials.com/online-placement#.UoOoHOLZiri" target="_blank">placement test</a>, if you want to see where they should start.</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">This is all straight forward when it comes to purchasing. Not hard at all. After you have purchased it, you can log in and start. I downloaded all the lessons and worksheets for the first few lessons. I also printed a check list to keep us on track. You can also download the answer key. </font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentialsscreenshot_zps981045a1.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentialsscreenshot_zps981045a1.jpg" width="560" height="153"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Overall Opinion:</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">I really liked this program. I think that is very straight forward, love that they have the audio, so my kids can hear how it is pronounced. That really is a huge help when your kids are doing a foreign language. Both my kids really have succeeded well with this program. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentials4_zpsa088c965.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentials4_zpsa088c965.jpg" width="441" height="263"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font size="4">I think this was a very well thought out program, and we are anxious to continue. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">For 5 modules that make up this program, you can purchase them individually for <strong><em>$69.95</em></strong>. You have 90 days to download the lessons and workbook. If you purchase the full access you save over 50%, that can be done for <strong><em>$149.95</em></strong>. This gives you access to over 90 lessons, and you have a year to download all modules.</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentials2_zps530122b6.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/French%20Essentials/frenchessentials2_zps530122b6.jpg" width="451" height="279"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/french-essentials-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about this program. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-42032720043160300682013-11-08T10:37:00.001-05:002013-11-08T10:37:30.099-05:00TOS Crew: IXL.com review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="IXL Logo photo ixllogofixed.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Math/IXL/ixllogofixed.png" width="238" height="109"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">Anything that helps bring learning alive is helpful right? Well, this past month we had the opportunity to review <a href="http://www.ixl.com/" target="_blank">IXL.com</a> which is an online <a href="http://www.ixl.com/math/" target="_blank">math</a> and <a href="http://www.ixl.com/ela/" target="_blank">language arts</a> practice site. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/ixl/280956_362445090496975_1685320066_o_zpse8620420.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/ixl/280956_362445090496975_1685320066_o_zpse8620420.jpg" width="518" height="328"></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4"><strong><em>What is IXL:</em></strong></font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">This is an online program, that is very easy to setup your account with. Once your account is setup, and ready to go. You log your child in and pick what grade level you want them to work on. I used this on both my kids, so my youngest started with 3rd grade math and language arts. The language arts is only available up to 4th grade right now. My oldest who is ahead in math, went straight to the algebra. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">You can set how much time you want them to practice each day. I typically had them work on it for about 20 mins each day. They set goals for them to reach, and they get rewarded by printable certificates and such.</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/ixl/IMG_6332copy-Recovered_zps68039f50.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/ixl/IMG_6332copy-Recovered_zps68039f50.jpg" width="638" height="114"></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">The language arts is a new program that has been added. Like I mentioned before it is only available for 2nd through 4th grades right now. My daughter really enjoyed the language arts program. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">Each parent has their own account to log into to see what your child has been doing, and how long they spent on it. I really like this, cause it shows me the areas we need to spend more time on. This also has a section where you can see what the State Standards are, including common core curriculum.</font></p><font size="4"> <p align="left"><br><strong><em>Our thoughts:</em></strong></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">This is a great supplement program, but not meant to be a stand alone. My kids really enjoyed using it. It has been a great help with getting extra time with math in. My youngest has also really improved with the help from language arts. I think that will benefit her more this year. I put this in as part of their daily routine. So, while they liked it they certainly were not asking to use it out of school. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">The one thing that we did not like was there is no instruction given for the problems, so my youngest had a bit of trouble with that. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">Things that we really liked:</p> <ul> <li> <div align="left">That it shows you parent reports</div></li> <li> <div align="left">You can access it anywhere (yes even while on vacation, haha) </div></li> <li> <div align="left">You can adjust grade levels as needed</div></li></ul> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">Things we didn’t like:</p> <ul> <li> <div align="left">That they stick more to standard core </div></li> <li> <div align="left">Harder for kids with disabilities</div></li></ul> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong> </p> <p align="left">You can pay this in a couple of ways. </p> <p align="left">By paying <strong><em>$9.95</em></strong> a month for each subject or <strong><em>$15.95</em></strong> a month for both subjects. </p> <p align="left">This is for one child, but you can add an additional child for $2 each. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">Otherwise… </p> <p align="left">You can pay <strong><em>$79</em></strong> a year for each subject or<strong><em> $129</em></strong> for both subjects. </p> <p align="left">Then pay an additional $20 per child for each extra child. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">Be sure to stop by and see what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/ixl-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about IXL. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-15400142569053146852013-11-06T08:52:00.000-05:002013-11-08T09:05:26.964-05:00TOS Crew: Away We Go Media Book Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/carole_p_roman_logo_zps9e0a6d7b.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/carole_p_roman_logo_zps9e0a6d7b.png" width="377" height="229"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">When learning about other countries I always find it good to get books to help with the feel of it. Its hard to explain a country and its culture with out being their don’t you think? Recently we had the opportunity to review <a href="http://caroleproman.com/" target="_blank">Away We Go Media</a> by <a href="http://caroleproman.com/" target="_blank">Carole P. Roman</a>. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><strong><em>About the Author:</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">Carole P. Roman is an award-winning author. Who loves to share her stories of history and culture. The new books she has written are geared for kids Pre-K to 8 yrs old. However, my son still enjoyed looking at them with us, and he is 11yrs old. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">The Series:</font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">In the “If you were me series” you will find the following titles. </font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#004000" size="4">If You Were Me and Lived In <a href="http://caroleproman.com/pages/If_You_Were_Me_and_Lived_in_Mexico" target="_blank">Mexico</a>…</font></li> <li><font color="#004000" size="4">If You Were Me and Lived In <a href="http://caroleproman.com/pages/If_You_Were_Me_and_Lived_in_France" target="_blank">France</a>…</font></li> <li><font color="#004000" size="4">If You Were Me and Lived In <a href="http://caroleproman.com/pages/If_You_Were_Me_and_Lived_in_South_Korea" target="_blank">South Korea</a>…</font></li> <li><font color="#004000" size="4">If You Were Me and Lived In Norway… (this is the newest)</font></li></ul> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/if_you_were_me_in_mexico_cover_new_zps8edb4e1d.png" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/if_you_were_me_in_mexico_cover_new_zps8edb4e1d.png" width="251" height="242"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><strong><em>What you will find in the books:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">The books are very well illustrated. The pictures just pop right out at you. Your child will learn where the country is located, and its capital. Then the author gives you a “tour” from a child’s point of view of what life would be like for you if you lived there. Such as what you would eat, games you would play, what kind of toys they have, what they would call their parents, types of money used, etc. This book is great for a beginner child looking at foreign countries. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">They really bring it alive for the child. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/if_you_were_me_and_lived_in_France_zpse258286f.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/If%20You%20Were%20Me/if_you_were_me_and_lived_in_France_zpse258286f.jpg"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><strong><em>How we used the books:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">We are doing geography this year, so we decided to incorporate them into our learning each week. We discussed what the country was, things that we had in common, things that we did differently, etc. Then I had my daughter read the book to me. We learned about the maps, flags, and currency. We really enjoyed using them. She thought it was really neat to learn more about France. This also tied in well, cause we are learning French right now.</font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><strong><em>Our Thoughts:</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">Little Monkey really liked the books. They are a nice soft cover book, easy to flip through. Not to much information, with only 20-30 pgs per book. My daughter is 8 yrs old, and really loved them. She has gone back to reread them numerous times.</font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">I really like the way the books are done. They really make the learning come alive for the child, that might otherwise be bored. I like that the illustrations are really nice and pop out of the page. I really think that Carole P. Roman has done a great job with these books, and we look forward to seeing more in the future. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">You can purchase the first 3 books in the series in two formats. You can get them on the Kindle <strong>(.99Cents)</strong> or Paperback (<strong>$8.99 each</strong>).</font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"><em> If You Were Me and Lived In Norway…</em> is available on the Kindle<strong> $1.99</strong> or <strong>$8.62</strong> for Paperwork.</font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/carole-p-roman-book-reviews/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about it. </font></p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#004000" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-52383273850306654522013-11-01T09:40:00.001-04:002013-11-01T09:40:15.352-04:00TOS Crew: Rosie’s Doll Clothes Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">My girls love their dolls that are very much like the American Doll. They each have one, and it goes almost everywhere with us. Therefore, when we had the opportunity to review <a href="rosiesdollclothespatterns.com" target="_blank">Rosie’s Doll Clothes Patterns</a>, I jumped on it. My girls are still just getting into sewing, and learning about it. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/rosies2_zpse8168139.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/rosies2_zpse8168139.jpg"></p> <p align="center"><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>What is Rosie’s Doll Clothes Patterns:</em></strong></font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">Rosie’s Doll Clothes is a video course that your child can watch to help teach her how to sew clothes for her American Girl Doll (or similar size). If you have online access, you can get 12 months of over 130 videos teaching you how to sew. This program is targeted towards children 8 and up. I wouldn’t say just girls, as my son has started using it to, to make a few clothes for his sisters dolls for Christmas presents. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">When you purchase the program you receive 8 downloadable patterns with videos to go along with them, and a pdf. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">Each video is fairly short, around 5-10 minutes. Which is great for the child, that can’t sit and listen for long periods of time. The course is six weeks long with six or seven videos per week. </font></p><font color="#800040" size="4"> <p><br>They start with the basic’s of setting up your sewing room, how to work with fabric, and even how to use a serger. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/doll-collage-large_zpscbbc4c2d.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/doll-collage-large_zpscbbc4c2d.jpg"></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>How we used it:</em></strong> </p> <p>My youngest did this course the most. She is 8 yrs old, and not a lot of experience with a sewing machine. Therefore, I started her out everyday with watching the video, and then she would practice some skills on scrap fabric. When she got a little further along, myself or my mom would sit and help her with the machine. </p> <p>I think that Little Monkey has really learned a lot over the last few weeks using this program. She can do a lot of basic sewing without to much help now. I really enjoyed watching her learn how to go from a pattern to a finished product. The first time she finished something she was so excited, and she could see her mistakes, but we just learned from them, for the next thing we tried. She has made pants, shirts, and dresses. She is anxious to try more new things! </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>My Thoughts:</em></strong> </p> <p> </p> <p>I found that the videos were really good. I really liked how well they covered the things they needed to know. They were clear, and the sound was good. </p> <p>I love that this gave my girls a spark to be more imaginative, and wanting to try and do more things. </p> <p>They are very excited to keep trying to make new things, and to make Christmas presents for each other. </p> <p>Sadly my camera got dropped and isn’t working now, so all my photo’s are gone. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>The Cost:</em></strong> </p> <p>For a full year of access to 130 <a href="http://www.rosiesdollclothespatterns.com/buy-how-to-make-dolls-clothes-online-course/" target="_blank">sewing videos</a>, 8 patterns with instructions, and PDF’s that you get to keep. It is <strong><em>$48</em></strong> or you can get the DVD"’s for<strong><em> $67.23</em></strong> </p> <p> </p> <p>You can find Rosie’s Doll Clothes on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rosiesdollclothespatterns" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/dollsPatterns" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/rosieonline/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-86748142018219669032013-10-27T18:17:00.001-04:002013-10-27T18:17:46.945-04:00TOS Crew: Bridgeway Academy Review<p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Bridgeway/bridgewayacademylogo_zps8c2d62cc.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/Bridgeway/bridgewayacademylogo_zps8c2d62cc.jpg"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">As a homeschooler you are always trying to find the best way to teach your child. Sometimes you think having more interaction would be good for them. Recently we got the opportunity to try a <a href="http://www.homeschoolacademy.com/homeschool-learning-programs/online-homeschool-coop-classes/" target="_blank">learning lab</a>, by <a href="http://www.homeschoolacademy.com/" target="_blank">Bridgeway Academy</a>. </font></p><font color="#ff8000" size="4"> <p><br><strong><em>What we took: </em></strong></p> <p>Little Monkey took their Magic Tree House: Through the middle ages class which is designed for kids in 1st –8th grade. This class was taught by Kathy Thomas. Each class was Monday afternoons from 1-2pm. </p> <p>Here is some of what was covered in this class. . . </p> <ul> <li>Overview of the Middle Ages <li>Life on a Medieval Manor <li>Life in a Medieval City <li>Knights and the Crusades <li>Castles <li>The End of the Middle Ages <li>Art & Music</li></ul> <p> </p> <p>The whole class is a total of 8 weeks. Each week Kathy assigned them homework, which usually didn’t take to long to do. Then they had one large project to do. </p> <p> </p> <p>I’m sure you are wandering how they did a class online. They used what was called Jigsaw Classroom. It is a place where the kids can log into a “classroom” and have face to face time with the instructor via webcam, and can take part with a microphone. It is divided into four sections on your screen with a spot for presentations, a white board for notes, a spot for links for assignments and what the teacher is showing. Very similar to a powerpoint presentation really. </p> <p>The first class or two Little Monkey was rather confused. It was a bit overwhelming to get figure out how to get around. Then she got the hang of it. Unfortunately due to a few last minute appointments for me (I have been having medical issues) she missed a few classes. However, most classes are recorded, and when she couldn’t do that she made sure to have an option for them. Then she would be sure to email after the class, to send any additional links, or papers they needed to do for homework. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Our Thoughts:</em></strong></p> <p>We thought this was a very interesting way to take a class. I’m not sure it was really what Little Monkey needed. She seemed to have a hard time with it sometimes. She is more of a physical class child. I think that it was fairly well put together though. I was really impressed with the teacher. She did a great job keeping the kids engaged, and giving them assignments.</p> <p>Overall this is not something that I think I would do for her, but maybe for my older child. A great option for some older students. I think it brings a whole other part of learning in that is good for the kids. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong></p> <p>Learning Labs by Bridgeway Academy are 9 week long courses. They use Jigsaw classroom software, which is a few program to use. You do need the use of headphones, a microphone, and webcam to participate in this class. </p> <p>For the 9 week course it costs $145 </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Check out more reviews from the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/bridgeway-academy-review/" target="_blank">TOS CREW</a>. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> <p></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-21638497692671180072013-10-25T10:35:00.001-04:002013-10-25T10:35:30.448-04:00Oral-B Pro-Health For Me Rechargeable Toothbrush Review:<p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">With the biggest candy holiday coming up just next week, it is important that we remind our kids of good brushing habits. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><font color="#0000a0" size="4"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KP44vMzF2T0/UmqBoY0fzvI/AAAAAAAAKAk/Yrs5Zi4xf-k/s1600-h/America%252527s%252520%252520ToothFairy%252520Logo%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Print" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Print" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m0sCpn7C0kc/UmqBo2brKXI/AAAAAAAAKAo/FPI1CljNjjc/America%252527s%252520%252520ToothFairy%252520Logo_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="126"></a></font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Trick or Treat with <a href="http://www.ncohf.org/" target="_blank">America’s ToothFairy</a> is a campaign that they use to help get kids to have better oral health habits. All while raising funds to help pay for at-risk children suffering from tooth decay. Did you know that it is the #1 Chronic Childhood disease? </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">I don’t know about you, but my kids still have a hard time remembering to brush their teeth two times a day. As a parent we really need to keep on them about this. A couple of mine are dealing with loose teeth right now. Another one just had to have 4 cavities filled, cause she has very crowded teeth. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Just some ideas for Halloween instead of handing out candy:</font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Toys</font></li> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Glow in the dark bracelets</font></li> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Pencils and erasers</font></li> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Stickers</font></li> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Pretzels</font></li> <li><font color="#0000a0" size="4">and more! </font></li></ul> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">This past month we have had the opportunity to review the Oral B Pro-Health for Me Rechargeable Toothbrush. Let me start by saying, I’m going to have to go buy a couple more. They instantly fought over who was going to use it! I decided to let Monkey Man use it, since he has been begging for one recently. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PWc02vhhf-s/UmqBqLNkF5I/AAAAAAAAKA0/CscCaaRfOHc/s1600-h/IMG_20131016_061923_360%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131016_061923_360" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131016_061923_360" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M5JYMwW5flg/UmqBq7bqQaI/AAAAAAAAKA8/8mDSTA6Cz80/IMG_20131016_061923_360_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">He was really excited about it. It is very easy to use, and we got replacement heads that should last awhile. There is a 2 minute timer, so they know how long they should be brushing for. He was really good about using it this past month, so I’m hoping maybe this is the incentive he needed to get him going on being better about his dental hygiene. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-34NwgXJiLLI/UmqBrljo8AI/AAAAAAAAKBE/_geDavjNlkI/s1600-h/IMG_20131025_102948_206%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131025_102948_206" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131025_102948_206" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HjqRlQ7MML0/UmqBsCC5NtI/AAAAAAAAKBM/wtW6yDZ9Eic/IMG_20131025_102948_206_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">You can purchase the Oral B Pro-Health for Me Rechargeable Toothbrush at any local Wal-Mart for $28.97. Then you can get the Oral B Pro-Health for me Sensitive clean replacement Brush Heads for $21.22. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">Be sure to keep on them over the next few weeks, while they are enjoying so many sugary treats to keep them teeth brushed really well. Be sure to swing by and sign up for the <a href="http://www.ncohf.org/our-programs/americas-toothfairy-kids-club" target="_blank">Toothfairy’s Kid’s club</a> as well and help raise money for a child in need. </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"><a href="http://www.americasToothFairyKids.org">www.americasToothFairyKids.org</a> </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4">or on <a href="www.facebook.com/NCOHFAmericasToothfairy" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/AmerToothfairy" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/AmerToothFairy/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>! </font></p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0000a0" size="4"><font size="2">*I was provided with a Oral-B Pro-Health for Me Rechargeable Toothbrush and Brush Head Refills in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% mine or my monkeys.</font> </font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-18177337935232568662013-10-24T11:01:00.000-04:002013-10-25T11:02:06.481-04:00Rosie MADE Organic Chocolate Review:<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">As part of the Rosie’s Review Crew, I get monthly reviews of products that are sold by <a href="http://www.rosiemade.com/" target="_blank">rosieMade</a>. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">On this review I was sent three different types of organic chocolate bars. Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt and Almonds, Hot Habanero Mandarin Dark Chocolate, and Coconut Almond Crème Milk Chocolate. These are each 3 oz of chocolate and sell for $5 each. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PhUmbYnf-wE/UmqH4WT1lfI/AAAAAAAAKBc/PZx15z3Q0xQ/s1600-h/IMG_20131025_104315_871%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131025_104315_871" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131025_104315_871" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pEet6aBda9Q/UmqH5IHsjqI/AAAAAAAAKBg/9PQbt8CstCE/IMG_20131025_104315_871_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yVXEdGjGrq8/UmqH6wtywcI/AAAAAAAAKBs/b4NHr02D_aY/s1600-h/IMG_20131025_104447_866%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131025_104447_866" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131025_104447_866" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GOIAQ3qfW0M/UmqH7cqNhWI/AAAAAAAAKBw/kqoHVOxAwNI/IMG_20131025_104447_866_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt & Almonds Bar – 70% Cocoa</em></strong> -</font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">has dark chocolate, almonds, and sea salt. GMO & Gluten Free. We found this one pretty good, but thought the sea salt was to much. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Hot Habanero Chocolate Bar – 70% Cocoa -</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">has dark chocolate, habanero powder and mandrin oil. GMO & Gluten Free. This one was far to hot for our taste. My kids each tried a small piece, but couldn’t do it. I am not a huge spice fan, so I barely nibbled it and my mouth was on fire. Great for the person who loves a kick!</font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Coconut Almond Crème Milk Chocolate Bar – 41% Cocoa -</em></strong> </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">has milk chocolate, almonds, and coconut oil. GMO & Gluten Free. This was our favorite of them all. We thought it was smooth, and just the right amount of almonds. There is just a hint of coconut, but not to overwhelming.</font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">For this month if you order before 10/31/13 you can get an extra 10% off your order with the coupon code <em><strong>RRC1013</strong></em>. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">Be sure to swing by and check out the rest of what they have to offer! </font></p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"><font size="2">*I received three chocolate bars from rosieMade for this review in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% mine or my monkeys.</font> </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-87129910508704167912013-10-24T09:36:00.000-04:002013-10-25T09:36:07.744-04:00TOS Crew: VocabularySpellingCity Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/VSCLogo300x300_zpsa95c604b.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/VSCLogo300x300_zpsa95c604b.jpg"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left"><font color="#000000" size="4">Do you enjoy spelling? I’m not a very good speller really. I struggle with some of the words that our crazy language spells not like it sounds. My kids are the same way. They always spell a word, just like it would sound like it spells. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">I had the chance to review <a href="http://www.spellingcity.com/pm-overview.html" target="_blank">VocabularySpellingCity Premium Membership</a>, by <a href="http://www.spellingcity.com/" target="_blank">VocabularySpellingCity</a>. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4"><strong><em>What is VocabularySpellingCity?</em></strong> </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">It is an online program designed to help your child with their spelling. You can import spelling lists, or you can add in your own spelling lists. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">You can have multiply children on an account. It is designed for children ages K and up. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">VocabularySpellingCity has so much to offer. It is very easy to set up. You just open an account, and put in your user information. Once that is set up, you can add your students. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">When your students are set up, you can go in and add a list, or import a list. It will go to a general board, until you decide which student to assign it to. Once it is assigned to a student, you can go in and give them assignments. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">For my kids, I chose to give them 4-5 assignments a week, and had them do them in order. They have to complete the first activity to go on. They also have a due date to get the whole weeks assignments done by. This way they can do more than one day at a time if they choose too. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4"><strong><em>Premium Membership Vs. Basic:</em></strong> </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4">The premium membership has a lot more to offer. These are things you can get from a premium membership. </font></p> <ul> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Student Recordkeeping</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Unlimited access to vocabulary content</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Premium learning games and activities</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Writing practice</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">The ability to create assignments for each student</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">No commercial ads</font></div></li></ul> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">While the free version is nice, and can be very beneficial I really think that the premium version is worth the money. </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4">Here are some of the games and extras you can find on VocabularySpellingCity. </font></p> <ul> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Printable Worksheets</font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Handwriting practice </font></div> <li> <div align="left"><font size="4">Lots of games, like. . . LetterFall, Matchit Sentences, Sentence writing Practice, Read a word, Flash Cards, and so much more! </font></div></li></ul> <p align="left"><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font size="4"><strong><em>What the Monkey’s Thought</em></strong>: </font></p><font size="4"> <p align="left"><br>Monkey man who hates spelling really loved this program. He wasn’t a huge fan of the sentence writing, but he is coming around. His favorite game is pictured below, which is the LetterFall. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/letterfall_zps87fc7ce0.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/letterfall_zps87fc7ce0.jpg" width="420" height="367"></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">I really saw a big difference in his spelling this week, because it was reinforced with the games he plays. I also love that he can learn the meaning while he is learning to spell them. </p> <p align="left">Little Monkey also really enjoyed it. She to really struggles with spelling, but I have seen a big improvement with hers as well. She doesn’t really have a favorite game, as she likes them all. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/wordorama_zps693e47d4.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VocabularySpellingCity/wordorama_zps693e47d4.jpg" width="387" height="293"></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">I really am impressed with this program, and think that it is really worth the money. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><strong><em>How we used it: </em></strong></p> <p align="left">Since I really don’t have an actually spelling program for the kids this year yet. Still working on that. I have been looking online for a few list that I could go by for there age/grade. Once I find a set of words I want, I go in and add the list to each child. Then I go under assignments and pick out 5 things for them to do a week. Monkey Man gets a few tougher ones, such as writing sentences since he is older. After I assign them their work, I set the due date for the last day of the week for them to get them done. </p> <p align="left">This has really helped a lot with our spelling work. I can already see a great improvement in Monkey Man’s spelling! </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><strong><em>Cost:</em></strong> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">As I stated before, you can use VocabularySpellingCity for free and utilize a lot of the features. If you wanted to do that to give it a try and see if it was for you. </p> <p align="left">However, the <a href="http://www.spellingcity.com/pm-overview.html" target="_blank">Premium membership</a> is only <strong><em>$29.99</em></strong> a year for up to 5 family members. I really find that reasonable for the amount of options you get. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/vocabulary-spelling-city-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> has to say about this program! </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-14497096965443927522013-10-23T12:09:00.000-04:002013-10-27T18:08:36.656-04:00Ultimate Party Meatballs<p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0u7eOcKo5yw/Um2OzYm7x1I/AAAAAAAAKCM/ohzCAOCgpv0/s1600-h/image0013.jpg"><img title="image001" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="image001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TjJc0Lg8NqQ/Um2O0SdY8yI/AAAAAAAAKCQ/sn7tGqpWvrU/image001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="98"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4">Do you like to throw parties? I do! One of my favorite things is to host a party, or get together and make people smile. I really just enjoy the company and watching people enjoy themselves. </font></p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4">Recently we got an Ultimate Party Meatball Basket, that included some ingredients, mixing spoon, toothpicks, apron, and potholders. </font></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4">This past weekend we had a party for my middle daughter’s birthday. Like always I went overboard, and made a bunch of food. One of the things I made was the Ultimate Party Meatball! </font></p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BG9s_dDmNw8/Um2O1aj5MfI/AAAAAAAAKCc/WnKw9-SjVF8/s1600-h/image0052.jpg"><img title="image005" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="image005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yMZfyfW7Jok/Um2O1yI9dEI/AAAAAAAAKCk/TtVFrJe_T44/image005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="133"></a></p> <p align="left"><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p><font color="#800040" size="4"> <p align="left"><br>As always the Monkey’s had a great time helping me make them, as you can see here.</p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="center"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KJXvdECs4Zc/Um2O4Gw4YXI/AAAAAAAAKCs/tElYbT1Gy_M/s1600-h/IMG_20131027_113534_025%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131027_113534_025" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131027_113534_025" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UPdNNGU0dnE/Um2O4q-vjbI/AAAAAAAAKC0/AD7hKciBJKM/IMG_20131027_113534_025_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left">They are so easy to make, my son wants to do it all by himself next time. </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">Then looked and smelled so good! </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">They were certainly a hit at the party! The kids devoured them down! Guess I should have made a double batch. . . </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="Ultimate Party Meatballs" src="http://www.heinzchilisauce.com/CS_Infographics.jpg" width="294" height="839"></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">When will you be throwing your next party? </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2"><em>**Disclosure: I received </em><i>Heinz®, Johnsonville® and Ocean Spray®</i> <em>products in exchange for sharing this recipe. All thoughts and opinions are my own</em>.</font></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-53687143721057182952013-10-22T11:14:00.001-04:002013-10-22T11:14:33.962-04:00Struggles. . .<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">I don’t know if some of you that follow me have seen that I haven’t been posting much. I have been struggling to keep my head out of the clouds. I am overwhelmed, and just having a rough time. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">Right now, I have some issues going on at home. I will address that a bit later though. My biggest concern right now is a problem I have had for awhile now. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">I don’t know if some of you have seen me mention that I have a thyroid problem. Well, over the years it has continually gotten worse. I now have 3 nodules, that are between 3-4 cm. I went to see the specialist last week, and he told me that one of them is calcified. Which means that it might be malignant. This was not the news I wanted to hear. . .</font></p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">The verdict is that I am going to have surgery, the first week in November. I’m relieved, anxious, and nervous all at once. I am ready to have this thing out of my body, so that my life can get back to normal. I have been struggling with issues caused by it for to long. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4">So, if you don’t hear from me much in the next couple weeks. I’m working hard to stay focused, but sometimes can’t. Please bare with me, as I go about this journey. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-32547238582968619552013-10-20T11:00:00.000-04:002013-10-22T11:00:48.007-04:00The Homeschool Mother’s Journal:<p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" src="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" width="444" height="430"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>In my life this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">It has been a very emotional week. . . <br>I will explain more in another post. <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">We spent some time with friends. . . <br>went to a few appts. . . <br>spent time together. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"> </p></font></em> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>In our homeschool this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Our first week back to school. . . <br>The Monkey’s are doing really good. <br>We have a pretty busy schedule. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Monkey Man went hiking with Scouts. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Little Monkey did a bug program at a local <br>museum. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Don’t give up, even when things get a bit hard.<br>I tend to struggle with this sometimes. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">This week<br>voice lessons, <br>Appts,<br>Co-op, <br>4H, </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">and then a birthday party for my Middle Monkey this weekend! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>My favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Cuddling with my monkey’s! <br>They keep me strong. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>My kiddos favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Spending time with friends. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>Things I’m working on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">A birthday party for Middle Monkey</font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>I’m cooking… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Beef Stew</font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>I’m grateful for… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Amazing friends in my time of need. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em></em></strong></font> </p> <p align="center"><strong><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em></strong> </p> <p align="center"><strong><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em></strong> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>I rewarded my kids this week by… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Taking them to lunch.. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>Something I am ogling or have my eye on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Nothing at the moment.</font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080c0" size="4"><strong><em>A photo, video, link, or quote to share (silly, serious or both!)…</em></strong></font> <br>Two of my monkey’s! </div></li></ul> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hoqCtj9voFc/UmaTG2RyOtI/AAAAAAAAJ_8/vUnDOS7sqBQ/s1600-h/IMG_20131012_114552_726%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131012_114552_726" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131012_114552_726" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MkVFKjxOLBQ/UmaTHq2lg1I/AAAAAAAAKAE/RZr6d_bmA_0/IMG_20131012_114552_726_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-46823872030066485192013-10-14T10:07:00.000-04:002013-10-15T10:11:26.489-04:00Do you have a favorite season?<p> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">Mine would be fall. . . hands down my favorite season. I’m sure you have heard me mention that before. I love the crisp cool air, but yet warm days. I’m a hoodie kinda girl, so the cool air isn’t all bad. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">Most of all I love our landscape in the fall. The tree’s all in a rainbow of colors between red, orange, green, and yellow. The landscapes are just beautiful. I am just in such awe of the beauty around me in the fall. I feel the most peaceful, and enjoy the calmness of it all. I really find that I can reflect more this time of year. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">Another highlight for this time of year for me is to take pictures. Its just like the world just screams at me, please take my photo. Everywhere I go, I see a chance to take a picture. Sometimes I want to just slam on my breaks and hop out to take a picture. Lol! </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">Do you have a favorite season? Is their one that just screams your name more than another? Do you feel a connection? </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">I thought, I would just share a few photo’s with you from my travels. I don’t have my good camera anymore, so bare with me, I’m doing the best I can with my cell phone camera for now. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-D8MN7bU_an0/Ul1MkmKp8JI/AAAAAAAAJ9A/9tRGysG3JrE/s1600-h/IMG_20131010_182503_779%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131010_182503_779" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131010_182503_779" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rXvu8HmJmFA/Ul1MoEdfwJI/AAAAAAAAJ9I/LwWS-9ukJbA/IMG_20131010_182503_779_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dZTn7ZloGm0/Ul1MqgySf8I/AAAAAAAAJ9Q/qSqp7pH6KfM/s1600-h/IMG_20131008_093054_407%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131008_093054_407" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131008_093054_407" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cgp1JiBeMe8/Ul1Mv3t7huI/AAAAAAAAJ9Y/dMoYkPZZCNM/IMG_20131008_093054_407_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-w5pPqsgzYiI/Ul1NBOVnw8I/AAAAAAAAJ9k/u46255D0GvI/s1600-h/IMG_20131012_151127_424%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131012_151127_424" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131012_151127_424" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p3_KXcWdRjc/Ul1NB1z6zKI/AAAAAAAAJ9s/ezCDKOHUq7E/IMG_20131012_151127_424_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-52038346462442571042013-10-13T09:26:00.000-04:002013-10-15T09:29:21.744-04:00The Homeschool Mother’s Journal:<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" src="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" width="444" height="430"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font size="4"><strong><em></em></strong></font><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>In my life this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">It was a bit crazy. . . <br>I have a lot of personal things going on. . . <br>I’ll tell you more about that, at another time. <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">This week we worked on some projects around the house. <br>We did some cooking. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Went apple picking. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Spent time with friends </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"> </p></font></em> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>In our homeschool this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">This week was our last week of vacation. <br>I decided to make this last one 3 weeks long, <br>since we had a so much going on. Which has us <br>ending the week before Thanksgiving. <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">So I have been busy getting our new lesson <br>plans together and ready. <br><br></font></em><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Lots of good reviews from the end of our year <br>coming up too. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"> </p></font></em> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">If you need an extra week take it. . . This time around it<br>was the best decision for us. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">This week, we have <br>quite a few appts, <br>Co-op, 4H, Library, and <br>of course visiting with friends! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>My favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Going apple picking with my Best friend and her <br>family for her birthday! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-f_pgjZakwQ0/Ul1C4HSl_4I/AAAAAAAAJ8Y/xMwDi3KC4t8/s1600-h/IMG_20131005_134126_321%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131005_134126_321" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131005_134126_321" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0_YMshxE1Ko/Ul1C6iTh9CI/AAAAAAAAJ8g/GRO9qxsgi4k/IMG_20131005_134126_321_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>My kiddos favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Spending time with Auntie! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Things I’m working on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">I am finishing up lesson plans, and getting ready to start<br>our new 6 weeks of school. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>I’m cooking… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Pizza!<br>Oh, how I love pizza. I really could eat it all the time! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>I’m grateful for… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Amazing friends, that are getting me through<br>what was not the easiest decision of my life to make. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>I’m praying for… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Peace, and my mind to be free of clutter! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>I rewarded my kids this week by… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">A movie night </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong><em>Something I am ogling or have my eye on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4">Surprisingly nothing right now. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#800040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><em><font style="" color="#800040" size="4"><strong>A photo, video, link, or quote to share (silly, serious or both!)…<br><br><br></strong>A beautiful Sunset this week… </font></em></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-suJuGICOTCk/Ul1DGXJ3PbI/AAAAAAAAJ8o/43T1iKPF8No/s1600-h/IMG_20131009_182009_173%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20131009_182009_173" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20131009_182009_173" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dVAOayM6eRQ/Ul1DK3KGe2I/AAAAAAAAJ8w/Qflmgw3K0Nw/IMG_20131009_182009_173_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-12615247923164609732013-10-07T10:30:00.001-04:002013-10-07T10:30:06.576-04:00TOS Crew: George Washington- True Patriot Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAMLogo_zpse2d5593a.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAMLogo_zpse2d5593a.jpg"></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4">I have always been a history buff, so when my son started to enjoy history I was thrilled. The past couple weeks we have been reviewing <a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/p-403-heroes-of-historybrgeorge-washington-true-patriot.aspx" target="_blank">George Washington: True Patriot</a> by Janet & Geoff Benge through <a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/default.aspx?" target="_blank">YWAM Publishing</a>. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">I received the PDF versions of the book, and Unit Study Guide. Did you do Unit Studies with your kids? We haven’t done a lot of them, but there are quite a few that I really have enjoyed. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>About the Book</em></strong>: </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAM-GWbook_zps5f5701ba.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAM-GWbook_zps5f5701ba.jpg"></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><em>George Washington: True Patriot</em> is a great book jammed packed with lots of information about his life. Going back to the younger days of him, all the way through to his death. The book is 19 Chapters (146 pages), and has no pictures really. </font></p> <p><font size="4">We have studied about George Washington a bit already in the last year, but this really gave us a better look at him. It talks about him growing up in Virginia, and his part in the French and Indian War. His life as a president, and the final days of his life. (I don’t want to give all the details away) This book is very good! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>About the Unit Study Curriculum Guide</em></strong>:</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAM-GWUnitstudy_zps416f4e51.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/YWAM%20Publishing/YWAM-GWUnitstudy_zps416f4e51.jpg"></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">The book also comes with a Unit Study Guide. Which I must say goes great along with it. This has 64 pages, and is divided up into chapters. </font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">Display Corner</font></li> <li><font size="4">Key Quotes</font></li> <li><font size="4">Chapter Questions </font></li> <li><font size="4">Student Explorations</font></li> <li><font size="4">Community Links</font></li> <li><font size="4">Social Studies</font></li> <li><font size="4">Related Themes to Explore</font></li> <li><font size="4">Culminating Event </font></li> <li><font size="4">Appendix A </font></li> <li><font size="4">Appendix B</font></li></ul> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Here are some of the highlights of the Unit Study:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">A factual question from the text</font></li> <li><font size="4">A question on student’s level of comprehension</font></li> <li><font size="4">A vocabulary word </font></li> <li><font size="4">An open- ended question </font></li></ul> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">The guide provides more than enough activities to choose from to make the book even more fun. Along with mapping activities, timelines, and fact sheets. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>What the Monkey’s Thought</em></strong>:</font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">They really enjoyed this. We chose to read the book aloud together, and the two monkeys took turns doing that. When they would finish a chapter, I would ask them to write down the vocab word, and define it. Then we would do an activity. </font></p> <p><font size="4">They really got a lot out of this Unit Study, and have asked to do more of them in the future. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>My Thoughts</em></strong>: </font></p> <p><font size="4">I was thoroughly impressed with this book and Unit Study. I can’t tell you how good the book was. The kids and I really loved reading it, and we love when we can all sit and learn together. </font></p> <p><font size="4">There are a great amount of activities to choose from, so the kids would always choose a new one, whether it was a craft, or play. </font></p> <p><font size="4">I will absolutely be picking up a new one for us to read and learn from soon! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Cost</em></strong>: </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">You can get the Unit Study for <strong><em>$7.49</em></strong> <a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/p-457-heroes-of-historybrunit-study-curriculum-guidebrgeorge-washington.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>. </font></p> <p><font size="4">You can purchase the book for <strong><em>$6.99 </em></strong><a href="http://www.ywampublishing.com/p-403-heroes-of-historybrgeorge-washington-true-patriot.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>. </font></p><font size="4"> <p><br>You can purchase the book as a PDF, ePUB or Kindle.mobi and the unit study comes as an E-book in two PDF files. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Check out what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/ywam-publishing-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> has to say! </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"></font><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-88235577394809815172013-09-27T18:00:00.000-04:002013-09-27T18:17:09.313-04:00TOS Crew: VideoText Interactive Review<br />
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<img alt=" photo logo_zps6535dbd7.jpg" height="185" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VideoText%20Interactive/logo_zps6535dbd7.jpg" width="240" /></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Anyone who knows me, will tell you I am NOT a math genius. I struggle with most math, and always have. I had to have a tutor to pass math in high school. So, it is a good thing that I married a math genius since my son is obviously going to take after him. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">A math curriculum that is the right fit for your child is the hardest thing to come across. When we were offered the chance to review another math curricula I was excited! We received <a href="http://videotext.com/geometry-a-complete-course/" target="_blank">Geometry: A complete Course</a> from <a href="http://videotext.com/" target="_blank">VideoText Interactive</a>. </span><br />
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<img alt=" photo Geometry_productimage_zps5ece7321.jpg" height="366" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/VideoText%20Interactive/Geometry_productimage_zps5ece7321.jpg" width="300" /></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>What is Geometry: A complete course</i></b> :</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">VideoText Interactive approaches math in two ways. Through a inquiry-based video format, and by not using shortcuts, tricks, rules, or formulas. With complete mastery being the end result. Developed by Tom Clark a teacher of Mathematics and Science with 46 years of experience. He worked with all levels from elementary to adult! You can read more about him <a href="http://videotext.com/about-the-author/" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>What is included in Geometry: A Complete Course</i></b> :</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">I like to have the physical product, so we opted for the books and Dvd’s instead of doing it online. I was super excited when the box arrived, Monkey Man not so much! We received modules A and B. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Each module comes with</i></b>:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Student Worktext</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Course Notes Book</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Solutions Manual</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Progress Test Book</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Teacher’s Instruction Book</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">3 lesson DVD’s</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">We got all of that with each module A & B. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">When it arrived, I cracked right into the box to check it out. I was anxious for him to get started. He just finished Algebra, and I was just doing review with him the past few weeks. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>How VideoText Interactive works</i></b>:</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Your child watches a 5-10 minute video lesson. As the instructor you can watch it with them, and then you should discuss what you learned and make sure they understand the concept. I like for Monkey Man to take notes as he is going, but it is stated NOT to take notes. They are only to watch the video, and after that is finished they can go back and take any notes. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">When the video is finished your child is then to complete the student text assignment to help reinforce concepts. You can give them either the odds or evens to do. If they get any wrong, that is where the solutions book comes in. They use that to figure out what they did wrong. I tried to have Monkey Man go back over the ones he got wrong to see if he could see what he did wrong first. Sometimes, he caught his mistake, and others I had to show him, or daddy had to go back over it with him. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">After you finish a lesson, you can use the progress test book to give quizzes to make sure they are understanding the concepts. We found that taking the quiz for the lesson they learned the day before was the best way to go. Then we knew he really understood the concept. It was also noted to remember that if they miss 2 or 3 problems that doesn’t mean there is a lack of mastery.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Our thoughts</i></b>: </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Monkey Man is a hard child to find math for. . . being that he is in 6th grade, doing 9-10th grade math. Most curriculum is to boring for him, or even to easy. When we received<i> Geometry: A Complete Course</i> he was not excited at all. While he is really good at math, he doesn’t like it when I get him more. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">However, after the first few lessons he began to complain less, and do more! He really thought the instructor was awesome. He liked how he presented. He also likes that he doesn’t have to wait hours for daddy to come home and help him with a problem. Since I am not the math genius, and can’t really help him as well now. Now, he only has to wait if he gets stumped which isn’t very often. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">We use the curriculum three times a week, cause that is what works for us. He has been doing really well with the concepts that I can tell. His work is good, and his quizzes have been better than he thought they would. While I don’t think he will ever admit to loving math, <i>VideoText Interactive</i> ranks right up there as one of his favorites! </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Of all the curriculums we have tried, this one has been a bit more teacher intense. However, since this is really the only subject I have to be a bit more involved with, it has worked out fairly well. I am trying to get Monkey Man to be mostly independent, so I can focus on Little Monkey. He is really improving on this, this year. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">As a homeschooling parent, I am always concerned that I can’t teach enough or good enough. My beliefs are challenged everyday, so that is why I think I really stress about that. After much stress and thinking, I discovered that this may be true, but I have the option to find the best fit of curriculum for my child. Does a public school teacher have that option? If he was in public school would they be teaching him 3 grades ahead? Probably not, so I love that we have that freedom. Having great people like Tom Clark, who love and create such great curricula really helps us! </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Overall, I really think this program is a great product. The lessons are great, but short enough not to bore your child. The books are broken down very nicely, you know right where to look when searching for something. They are very high quality materials. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><b><i>Cost</i></b>: </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">I have to admit, the cost is rather high. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">If you purchase all the modules you would receive:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">8 Units</span></li>
<li><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">176 Video Lessons</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">For <a href="http://videotext.com/shop-geometry-a-complete-course-with-trigonometry/" target="_blank">Geometry</a> the complete online course costs <b><i>$299 </i></b>this is for licensing two students. If you need more it is an extra <b><i>$49</i></b> for each extra student. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">and the printed version of the whole course will cost you <i><b>$529</b></i>. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">You can also purchase modules <i>A-B-C</i> or <i>D-E-F</i> for<b><i> $279</i></b> each. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">You can purchase all modules separately if you choose. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Online geometry module A costs <b><i>$59.00</i></b> or for the printed version it is <b><i>$99.95</i></b>. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Keep in mind that if you purchase the online version you do get 3 years of access. </span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">Also each complete course can count as 2 to 3 credits for High School Math. You would be completing Geometry, Trigonometry, and Pre-Calculus.</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">While this is high, and I am the first to say I couldn’t afford to pay that for a math program. It is worth a couple math credits, so that helps justify the cost. I have a very tight budget myself, but I would absolutely consider this program for my kids. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">You can find VideoText Interactive <a href="http://videotext.com/" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VideoTextInteractive" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/VideoTextMath" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: medium;">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/videotext-interactive-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about VideoText Interactive Products. </span><br />
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The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-85012114649636297492013-09-27T09:20:00.000-04:002013-09-27T09:20:00.699-04:00Review: Mighty Handle<p> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">I have always enjoyed grocery shopping. However, I am not a fan of the redundancy of grocery shopping. Think about it. . . you put the groceries in the cart, then you empty it to put them on the belt at the checkout. Only to turn around and have to put them back in the cart, to take them back out to put them in the car! Then to turn around and take them out of the car, to carry them into the house, and have to take them out of the bags, to put them away! HOLY MOLY! </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">While I can’t solve all of that, I was happy to try the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MightyHandle" target="_blank">Mighty Handle</a> out to help with unloading the car. I am one of those people, that will carry as many as I possibly can not to have to walk back out to the car! What usually happens when I do that? The handles break, or the bottoms fall out. Never fails right?! </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"><a href="http://www.mightyhandle.com/mightyhandle/" target="_blank">The Mighty Handle</a>, can is designed to hold up to 50lbs on each hook. Obviously we don’t weigh our groceries, so you would have to play around to see exactly how many bags would be best for you. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ksL-NcLL9VE/UkTc9tcSUoI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/g-zdOXZcpLk/s1600-h/IMG_20130924_172954_709%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130924_172954_709" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130924_172954_709" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wcQF63XPdyc/UkTc-ZtGBJI/AAAAAAAAJ6Y/RHI20YJ4wJA/IMG_20130924_172954_709_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">I used the Mighty Handle right after one of my grocery trips. I put about 4 bags on each hook. It worked nicely, and I really liked only making one trip from the car, without hurting my hand. The second time, I had Monkey Man give it a try. He really loved using it. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4">I would say that I need to now pick up a few more for the rest of the family. This would definitely be a great help if you have little kids you need to hang on to, or an infant to carry. If you would like to pick one up, you can buy a 2pk at Walmart or Amazon. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="4"><font size="2">*Disclaimer: I was provided with the product in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% mine or my monkeys.</font> </font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-47400895750143758832013-09-26T20:15:00.000-04:002013-09-27T22:20:50.721-04:00New Health Care Law. . .<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VQk1KVYqUUM/UkTbvOABlqI/AAAAAAAAJ58/Sx6sMcfcYF8/s1600-h/Anthem-BCBS-logo%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="New Anthem BCBS Primary.Secondary" border="0" height="95" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-W17m8f3ENUM/UkTbvywui3I/AAAAAAAAJ6E/N8LLd6UC4fk/Anthem-BCBS-logo_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="New Anthem BCBS Primary.Secondary" width="308" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: medium;">I’m sure by now you have heard the buzz about the new Healthcare law. To be completely honest with you, I am so confused about all the information out there. I have been slowly trying to soak up all the information and see how it pertains to me. Let’s face it, you can’t ignore it. . . Healthcare is highly important to your family. As the person who makes most of the decisions about our Healthcare, I need to be fully informed. Did you know that 80% of women make the healthcare decisions?! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Last week I had the opportunity to listen to a presentation put on by <a href="http://themotherhood.com/" target="_blank">The Motherhood</a>, and <a href="http://www.wellpoint.com/" target="_blank">WellPoint</a> (which is Blue Cross Blue Shield). They were their to discuss, and answer any questions we had about the new healthcare law, and what options we have available to us. I don’t know about you, but I had lots of questions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Patrick Blair and Ellie Kay, both WellPoint spokespeople gave us an over view of the new laws, and answered some questions we had. WellPoint does business in 14 states across the U.S. most people know them more as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">As we all know healthcare is highly important. It protects you and your family when sickness may occur. Major illness, and injuries can be super costly if you don’t have insurance. Here are a few figures to show you some costs:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">An average cost of a 3-day hospital stay is $30,000 </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">A broken arm can cost $2,500 or more (that is without surgery) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">There are going to be four options to get your healthcare insurance for next year:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Purchasing through you or your spouse’s employer</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Buy health insurance yourself </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Enroll in government programs like Medicare or Medicaid plans – if you are eligible</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Go without insurance – but you will have to pay a tax penalty</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I’m sure you have seen the word Healthcare Exchanges around. If your like me, your not really sure what that is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">“Healthcare Exchanges” will be like a marketplace for healthcare. You will be able to compare your healthcare options. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Enrollment starts: October 1, 2013</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Enrollment ends: March 31, 2013</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Coverage will begin: January 1, 2014 (this is for people who sign up before December 15, 2013) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Here are some important facts you need to remember: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">You may be able to qualify for financial help</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">You can get preventive healthcare at no cost </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">You can’t be denied based on pre-existing conditions</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Help will be available for people who make about $45,000 dollars a year, and families of four who make about $92,000 dollars a year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Financial help will be offered on a sliding scale. . . so the more money you make the less help you will get. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Later in the fall, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will have a subsidy estimator available online for you to get an estimate of how much of a subsidy you may receive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">There will be health benefits that all plans will offer:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Emergency services</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Maternity and newborn care</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Mental Health & Substance use disorder services</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Chronic disease management</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Pediatric services, including oral and vision care</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Woman will not be able to be charged more. Cannot be charged more or denied for pre-existing conditions. Woman will get preventative care for mammograms, well woman visits, contraception, and more. You can choose your own primary care, OB-GYN and pediatricians without referrals. (I think this is HUGE) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">All plans will come in levels or tiers. Such as Platinum, Gold, Sliver, and Bronze. Which means that if you choose the bronze you will have the lowest monthly premium, but will cover 60% of the costs. Or if you choose the platinum plan you will have the highest monthly premium, but will cover 90% of the costs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">All in all, there are plus sides to this new law. Like doctors are suppose to be more attentive, and be more helpful. Whether this happens or not is the real question. I’m still not 100% sure what is going to happen with this new healthcare, but I hope that it is going to work better for those who currently can not afford healthcare. I have always given up my healthcare to afford it for my children. Is this necessarily smart? No, probably not, but I think that my kids are more important. It will be nice not to have to chose between us anymore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I hope that the information I have provided you with, will help with your decision. If you are still confused, or need more information you can look in these places. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.anthem.com/health-insurance/resources/health-care-reform-overview" target="_blank">Healthcarereformforyou.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/" target="_blank">Healthcare.gov</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.anthem.com/health-insurance/home/overview" target="_blank">Anthem.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. I was provided with information by The Motherhood and WellPoint. All opinions are 100% mine or my monkeys.</i></span> </span></div>
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The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-78316751610073186002013-09-25T10:01:00.000-04:002013-09-27T10:10:38.148-04:00America’s ToothFairy Halloween SparX Candy Giveaway!<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WW7wtqAmTt8/UGyQfPiRm8I/AAAAAAAAHWg/RSS8dByuNnk/s1600/NCOHF_AmericasToothFairy_Logo.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Halloween used to be a touchy subject with me. I am not a huge fan of Trick or Treating. Why? Well, I hate to see so many people spend huge amounts of money on candy. Only for me to throw it away! Yes, you heard me correctly. I don’t like my kids consuming huge amounts of candy. So, if they do go Trick or Treating, I go home and take out a few things, and daddy takes out what he wants, and the rest goes in the trash. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">So, after a few years of me feeling so guilty. . . I came up with a different approach. We now do a night time clue hunt with them. At the end there is a bag with a movie, or small toy in it for the child. They really enjoy the challenge, and have a great time doing it in the dark! We also do a Fall Party, with lots of Halloween fun, and a costume component. Then they get to dress up just the same! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://americastoothfairy.myetap.org/fundraiser/trickortreat2013/" target="_blank">America’s ToothFairy</a> is trying to make everyone’s Halloween cavity free. You can sign up to participate in a virtual campaign. This will help your child to work on their oral habits, and help kids with dental disease. Did you know that Tooth decay is the #1 chronic childhood disease?! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Here are some tips to help make Halloween a bit more healthy:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Try out xylitol products instead of sugary treats </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Hand out sugar-free candy or alternatives to trick-or-treaters</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Hand out multi-colored toothbrushes instead of candy </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Host a Halloween party where people donate a dollar to a Children’s Charity </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Most of all, remember to brush & Floss teeth, and visit the dentist every 6 months. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">You can also sign up for the <a href="http://www.ncohf.org/our-programs/americas-toothfairy-kids-club" target="_blank">Kids Club</a>, where you will receive educational activities for the kids to do, and encourage better oral health. Along with quarterly newsletters, songs, mazes, videos, and so much more!</span><br />
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<img alt="SparX Halloween Candy Flyer 72 C 500 248x300 SparX Halloween Candy Giveaway" height="300" src="http://www.juiciestdeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/SparX-Halloween-Candy-Flyer-72-C-500-248x300.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="SparX Halloween Candy Flyer" width="248" /><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Enter for a chance to win some SparX Halloween Candy! (This candy is only sweetened with natural xylitol) </span><br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/d7a0d934/" id="rc-d7a0d934" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*I was given a sample of SparX candy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% mine or my monkeys. </span>The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-2653948934065835722013-09-23T13:17:00.000-04:002013-09-23T13:17:00.706-04:00Making the most of your opportunities. . .<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">As a parent you always want what is best for your child. However, has homeschoolers, sometimes I think people question that. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">Last fall Monkey Man was asked to do a assignment for creative writing. He was suppose to interview someone that worked in the field of study that he may want to do as an adult. Since he wants to be an archeologist, or a museum curator, and there are not really a lot of people in this area that do this, he chose to interview a local worker at a local museum. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">She was absolutely amazing, and really helped him a lot! He really enjoyed this opportunity so much. This assignment really helped him to grow a bit. Therefore, he decided to volunteer with the museum on a regular basis. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">This has been a wonderful opportunity for us as a whole. Every week, Monkey Man, Little Monkey, and I go in to volunteer. We help get kits together for programs they are putting on. We have made scavenger hunts for different areas of the museum, for the kids to do. They are also trying to teach him to handle artifacts, do research on artifacts, and eventually how to give tours of the museum. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GL3VuSeON_k/Uj8mf0W-7xI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/bwFzPHEguH0/s1600-h/IMG_20130919_133108_016%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130919_133108_016" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130919_133108_016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O_FAs1rf-A8/Uj8mgjkojGI/AAAAAAAAJ5M/qsGtO6ll7zI/IMG_20130919_133108_016_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-x34g7a-2gFE/Uj8mhmuNqKI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/5I8kvYnT9vE/s1600-h/IMG_20130921_134129_432%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130921_134129_432" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130921_134129_432" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0HjbOqJxnY8/Uj8miPvoH_I/AAAAAAAAJ5c/DFYsB85T7BM/IMG_20130921_134129_432_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OaBRH2TEQfE/Uj8mjZhJ_CI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/JjodOj3F7TM/s1600-h/IMG_20130921_133314_471%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130921_133314_471" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130921_133314_471" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q8bhmNgGyv4/Uj8mj1ngLyI/AAAAAAAAJ5s/qkYNPxooOMc/IMG_20130921_133314_471_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">We are so blessed with this opportunity. I’m so happy that he has a way to try out the things he loves so much. This will give him a good taste for the future. While this is not really something that I have a ton of time for on my schedule, I feel this is a thing I am willing to over book my schedule a tad, to give him such a great opportunity. </font></p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800040" size="4">Have you been able harness and use any great opportunities that have come your way? If so, how? </font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-6942985479856559452013-09-22T22:04:00.000-04:002013-09-22T12:10:36.440-04:00TOS Crew: The Presidential Game Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt=" photo logo_zpse414894c.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/The%20Presidential%20Game/logo_zpse414894c.jpg" width="347" height="125"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4">Is there really anything better than playing a game, and learning at the same time? I have always found that my kids learn so much more by playing games to get information. Anytime, I find a game that could be helpful to this we pick it up.</font> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/The%20Presidential%20Game/presidentialgame_zps1c10cd67.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/The%20Presidential%20Game/presidentialgame_zps1c10cd67.jpg" width="378" height="378"></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="4">This past month I was offered the opportunity to review </font><a href="http://thepresidentialgame.com/" target="_blank"><font size="4">The Presidential Game</font></a><font size="4"> through the TOS Crew. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>What you will find in the Game</em></strong>:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="4">Game Board</font> <li><font size="4">Vote Cards (1 Democrat & 1 Republican) </font> <li><font size="4">300 Chips (Red & Blue) </font> <li><font size="4">6 Dice (Red & Blue) </font> <li><font size="4">40 Write your own Politics cards</font> <li><font size="4">80 Politics cards</font> <li><font size="4">Score Card </font> <li><font size="4">Electoral WebMap Calculator Access Code </font></li></ul> <p><font size="4"><br></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>About The Presidential Game</em></strong>: </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">This game is geared towards children ages 11 and up. </font></p> <p><font size="4">It teaches you the ins and outs of politics. (Which even I could use help with) The game is played in teams of Republicans and Democrats, once you chose which your going to be, you need to decided whether you want to campaign or go fundraising. Tough decisions even as a game! However, teaches the children how the whole process works. This game also teaches really good strategizing.</font></p> <p><font size="4">Once you figure out what side your going to be and if your going to fundraise or campaign, you roll three of the dice. Whatever number you get on the dice is how many votes you get. This is where campaigning or fundraising comes in. If you are campaigning you choose which states your going to place your votes on. If you are fundraising, you have to place half of your votes on one of the 4 fundraising states. Then choose where the rest will go. Once finishing that you have to pick up a politics card. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/The%20Presidential%20Game/presidentialgame2_zps74a9fa34.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/2013TOSCrew/The%20Presidential%20Game/presidentialgame2_zps74a9fa34.jpg" width="362" height="241"><font size="4"></p> <p><br><br>The <em>Politics Cards</em> are cards that give you what the media is saying about your election. On the card it will state something like “Add 4 more votes to (some state)”. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Another feature you can do is the Electoral WebMap Calculator. That is what the access code is for, like I mentioned above. You can play using it, and the computer will keep track of the votes for you. Otherwise you have to use the scorecard. We have played both ways. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Our thoughts</em></strong>:</font></p> <p><font size="4">We really couldn’t wait for this review to arrive. We are always about playing new games, and I especially love when they are super educational. Not just for my children, but for me as well. </font></p> <p><font size="4">After reading the instructions which were a bit overwhelming at first with my kids excited to play and pulling everything out, we got to playing. The game is really easy to understand after you sit and play it a couple times. </font></p> <p><font size="4">The first time we played by campaigning. The second time we tried the fundraising option. It is nice that you can play either way. My oldest who is 11 really enjoyed it and thought it was neat. He enjoyed racing me to see if he could become president. Seeing how all the voting plays a huge part in how things go, he really started to understand the process better. When we have watched the presidential campaigns in the past, we have been confused by all the information that is thrown at you. I think we will have a better understanding of the electoral map next time. My youngest teamed up with daddy, and while didn’t always get what was happening enjoyed playing it, and learned about republicans and democrats. So it had an educational value for everyone that played.</font></p> <p><font size="4">This will absolutely be a new game we put in our “favorites” pile. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"><strong><em>Cost</em></strong>: </font></p> <p><font size="4">You can purchase <a href="http://store.thepresidentialgame.com/the-presidential" target="_blank">The Presidential Game</a> for $35 plus shipping. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">This would be an excellent addition to any Government or History class! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">See what the rest of the <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/the-presidential-game-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> is saying about this game! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-34206936050812185692013-09-21T12:44:00.000-04:002013-09-22T12:43:52.979-04:00The Homeschool Mother’s Journal:<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" src="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" width="444" height="430"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>In my life this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">We were right out straight again! PHEW! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Lots of appointments. . . <br>School <br>Activities<br>took a day trip with a few stops. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sbi_lljt_h4/Uj8eFjtyRWI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/C11uOPGOIXI/s1600-h/IMG_20130917_124325_898%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130917_124325_898" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130917_124325_898" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pJyTdHWeo1Y/Uj8eGfylBVI/AAAAAAAAJ3k/0rcr4FDsaG0/IMG_20130917_124325_898_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></font></em></p> <p><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-48WGRmv_Bd8/Uj8eH5_PJpI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/JZQ-TGuFX0o/s1600-h/IMG_20130917_135623_501%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130917_135623_501" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="IMG_20130917_135623_501" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tGAHMstKc3s/Uj8eIXK2dnI/AAAAAAAAJ30/SivLkdicGe8/IMG_20130917_135623_501_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-55bDPdVs0KA/Uj8eJodKFvI/AAAAAAAAJ38/TT7Y-K6NeJQ/s1600-h/IMG_20130917_135707_409%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130917_135707_409" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130917_135707_409" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HadomS5w-OE/Uj8eKDxxaII/AAAAAAAAJ4E/Qr2rX-kEb8Y/IMG_20130917_135707_409_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center"><br>and organizing more around the house. <br></p></font></em> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"> </p></font></em> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>In our homeschool this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Finished our 18th week of school <br>enjoyed Co-op<br>Volunteered at the museum<br>and are working on a few projects! <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-p3A5pDm85TY/Uj8eL8Jz_GI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/kukyBUn4Iug/s1600-h/IMG_20130920_190425_586%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130920_190425_586" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130920_190425_586" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4z_RjoUco1c/Uj8eMcUTlxI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/nQ3o7AsYcj0/IMG_20130920_190425_586_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-reDAopMGGM0/Uj8eNulttYI/AAAAAAAAJ4c/k4QSx2ZUD1Q/s1600-h/IMG_20130919_133116_700%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130919_133116_700" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130919_133116_700" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WgCSfwWlv-A/Uj8eOgxuBLI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/cddmM6dLh4c/IMG_20130919_133116_700_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"> </p></font></em> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Now we have a couple weeks off! <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"> </p></font></em> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Don’t be afraid to take time off. <br>After a year of schooling, we figured out <br>what worked best for us. <br>Now we are doing 6 weeks on, and <br>two weeks off. That works the best <br>for us. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">This week, we are going to be taking it easy. <br><br>We have a few Co-op projects to finish, and <br>4H binders to finish this week. <br><br>Couple appointments, girl scout trip, and hopefully<br>some fun! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>My favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Our day trip to the Orthodontist<br>We stopped to see Eartha at Delorme, <br>and LL Bean. <br><br>It was a fun day with my two older Monkeys. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>My kiddos favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">They enjoyed our trip to the LC Bates Museum to use the<br>telescope. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>Things I’m working on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Now I have to start working on our next <br>6 weeks of classes plans. <br><br>Plus I’m still trying to organize my living room, and <br>will need to stack wood soon. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>I’m cooking… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Tonight is leftover night </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>I’m grateful for… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">A very supportive husband, even though I<br>might not always think so. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em></em></strong></font> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>I rewarded my kids this week by… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">A movie and treats </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>Something I am ogling or have my eye on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4">Nothing this week. . . </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#0080ff" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#0080ff" size="4"><strong><em>A photo, video, link, or quote to share (silly, serious or both!)…</em></strong></font> <br><br>My silly monkey’s! <br>Love this picture! <br></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U6ksOj22gIk/Uj8eQwY6w-I/AAAAAAAAJ4s/72avhtLKjjE/s1600-h/IMG_20130917_135809_431%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20130917_135809_431" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20130917_135809_431" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XbmIVr27UyQ/Uj8eR3Khx9I/AAAAAAAAJ40/L8aYIzgglJU/IMG_20130917_135809_431_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-30320677208672665292013-09-14T14:03:00.000-04:002013-09-16T14:04:00.322-04:00The Homeschool Mother’s Journal:<p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" alt="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" src="http://www.soyoucallyourselfahomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/HMJ-Logo-500x484.png" width="444" height="430"></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><font color="#400040" size="5"><strong><em>September 14, 2013</em></strong></font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>In my life this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">We have been right out straight.. <br>The beginning of the school year is always crazy! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Doctor appointments, <br>Prepping for Scouts, <br>getting back into the swing of routines.. </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>In our homeschool this week… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">We have been just as busy. . . <br>So far though, it has been a good start! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Subjects are coming along nicely, at the end of this week <br>we will be on our 60th day of school, and starting our <br>2 week vacation. <br></font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">In co-op the kids are doing great with Geography, and writing. <br>Monkey Man is working hard on his Denmark project. <br><br>Little Monkey made a model of Maine for Art. <br>Monkey Man is working on Pastels (Chalk, and Oils) for art this year. <br><br>I’m super happy with how things are going! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"> </p></font></em> <p align="center"><strong><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em></strong> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Make sure to have lots of fun! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">This week, we are doing <br>Boy Scouts, Library, Music Class, <br>Piano, Tae Quon Do, Co-op, Volunteering at a local <br>Museum! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>My favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Spending a quiet day at home with my Monkeys! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>My kiddos favorite thing this week was… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Playing outside when the weather was a bit warmer… </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>Things I’m working on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Getting prepped for our new Girl Scout year! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Working on the next 6 weeks of plans!!! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>I’m cooking… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Enchilada's</font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>I’m grateful for… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">The time I get to spend on things I love, and with my kids! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em></em></strong></font> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>I rewarded my kids this week by… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Having a movie day, and a few treats! </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>Something I am ogling or have my eye on… </em></strong></font></div></li></ul> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4">Nothing at the moment </font></em></p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <p align="center"><em><font color="#400040" size="4"></font></em> </p> <ul> <li> <div align="center"><font color="#400040" size="4"><strong><em>A photo, video, link, or quote to share (silly, serious or both!)…</em></strong></font> </div></li></ul> <p align="center">To bad they weren’t always that nice to each other! </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CfpRKda6maA/UjdICi1MV_I/AAAAAAAAJ3E/6K59Jmgix_s/s1600-h/100_7718%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7718" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7718" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YFME0qVqWTI/UjdIDpxdQ9I/AAAAAAAAJ3M/dzVbxYy8LsU/100_7718_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-78830202275404091212013-09-11T08:30:00.000-04:002013-09-11T08:30:04.064-04:00First Field Trip with other Homeschoolers of the year….<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Our year is in full swing . . . </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">We went on another field trip this past week with other homeschoolers from the area. I really enjoy these, since we get to know other kids. </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">This time we went to Old Fort Western. . . </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q9-IBKeR7kU/Ui-7AsDZFJI/AAAAAAAAJy0/BRjniTBY3lk/s1600-h/100_7723%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7723" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7723" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-o0V29rJX94M/Ui-7BbU3blI/AAAAAAAAJy8/EoDHVw9yxf8/100_7723_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">These is really cool historical place in Maine. It was built in 1754 and the building you see in my picture, is the original building except the added shingles. I was so impressed with my kids listening and retaining of all the information. </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s4fvNjdb9J8/Ui-7Efuq12I/AAAAAAAAJzE/U6yPBRTxq9E/s1600-h/100_7752%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7752" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7752" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pcu-zcuoDso/Ui-7FeYtbdI/AAAAAAAAJzM/A_degpVEZDI/100_7752_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">We started with learning about how they kept the building warm. Then how they made shingles, so they could use them and use them as currency in the general store. </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8RtVPg1Yj-M/Ui-7IP7d-AI/AAAAAAAAJzU/pthEWdwTAVU/s1600-h/100_7730%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7730" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7730" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FXOeyJFcFp0/Ui-7I7votxI/AAAAAAAAJzc/2-RFCLOKTNM/100_7730_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qhMeLw17mo4/Ui-7KqQAKmI/AAAAAAAAJzk/8sbpAydgsyM/s1600-h/100_7734%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7734" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7734" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DDqdQPgdLTw/Ui-7LW8-IOI/AAAAAAAAJzs/O8MQD0mLels/100_7734_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rjDRKMozWmw/Ui-7M6FGluI/AAAAAAAAJz0/fbFVtI0IZ6Q/s1600-h/100_7736%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7736" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7736" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Efn8-jzf2c/Ui-7Nn_xNPI/AAAAAAAAJz8/QodS3NVk3-E/100_7736_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">From there we went into the general store, and learned about the products they had to sell. The store started because at first the closest place to go was in Boston, which at that time would have taken them nearly a week to get there. The store was an instant success. We learned that they carried farm tools, linens, shoes (which they had to buy the buckles for separately), hats, pots, utensils, dishes, sugar, coffee, etc. </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GkwQ7ftBT7w/Ui-7PLWR5kI/AAAAAAAAJ0E/3NSh5x-olQ8/s1600-h/100_7739%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7739" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7739" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-o01Yj0qh-3g/Ui-7P7bBp9I/AAAAAAAAJ0M/0Eu1ucrKiQY/100_7739_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q6zgMAuDLr8/Ui-7SPN4RJI/AAAAAAAAJ0U/oX7H_ak4oi0/s1600-h/100_7742%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7742" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7742" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CdySWvPc9s8/Ui-7S4M-stI/AAAAAAAAJ0c/zdfbegYx6c8/100_7742_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7e9LRXVzIo4/Ui-7VDwh4SI/AAAAAAAAJ0k/-l2FMASk1a8/s1600-h/100_7747%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7747" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7747" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5Y74FRzGu28/Ui-7VtlT-gI/AAAAAAAAJ0s/21I0DVML50g/100_7747_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fdYGdFjupWU/Ui-7W_kMYuI/AAAAAAAAJ00/0FkzaEKiyCM/s1600-h/100_7745%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7745" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7745" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xCsWG1_3ZlA/Ui-7XiNAHWI/AAAAAAAAJ08/lt-BMX1in4k/100_7745_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">From the store we moved on to the kitchen. Which the kids quickly discovered was nothing like at our current homes. In the kitchen they learned how to make a drink called “Shrub”, which normally would have had spirits in it, but they made it with apple cider vinegar instead. It is made from blueberries, and apple cider vinegar. Which you start by squish! Then you add sugar. Next you strain the blueberries through cheese cloth. Getting all the juice out of it, and then you add water. The kids were super anxious to try it. Surprisingly, they really enjoyed it. I thought it was better than I expected. The apple cider vinegar gives it a bit of a zing, but it was interesting! </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CiTD_Zw6B5E/Ui-7ZTrA8GI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/IaSHDHaXir4/s1600-h/100_7748%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7748" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7748" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-z4gJTlFIop0/Ui-7aPwj62I/AAAAAAAAJ2s/SmF649nmsNs/100_7748_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8UjHToBtlzA/Ui-7cT9cY4I/AAAAAAAAJ1U/TLcIH6Y-bbQ/s1600-h/100_7749%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7749" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7749" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-n-ggYzAO7bQ/Ui-7dFSNr2I/AAAAAAAAJ1c/J40IhJ6yqeU/100_7749_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mdfmc2xZbUQ/Ui-7f5qFcGI/AAAAAAAAJ1k/jQMDDG7wc3w/s1600-h/100_7750%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7750" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7750" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aCsBadJm-AY/Ui-7gljqueI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/SfenaHCQMXM/100_7750_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">From there we left to head upstairs to learn about textiles. Did you know that Flax had hair like fibers in it. You have to beat it pretty hard. It was originally used for doll hair. It was really neat. Then we learned about cotton, and they demonstrated how to make yarn on the wheel. Then she took us in to see what a bedroom looked like. A bed back then traveled around with you. Did you know that? The mattress was made with feathers. There are many layers to a bed. The kids had to remake it. Then they got to try it out. </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0VnEWPE_0lI/Ui-7i7ulq2I/AAAAAAAAJ10/tGLti96bImY/s1600-h/100_7756%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7756" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7756" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PAQeKc7MWbM/Ui-7jViA6SI/AAAAAAAAJ18/IRjYBT2cQT8/100_7756_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5Vi4DVVWQmM/Ui-7kzRktmI/AAAAAAAAJ2E/akfnKXAmTfY/s1600-h/100_7757%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7757" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7757" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c9gg-hh2et8/Ui-7llKwKfI/AAAAAAAAJ2M/Ie-7m20RUwU/100_7757_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NpMb5ABvRiU/Ui-7nlg6z-I/AAAAAAAAJ2U/WRL_T7EKMOs/s1600-h/100_7765%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="100_7765" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="100_7765" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-25cMd3mbR0Q/Ui-7opx0cgI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/wHMK8ovLmKs/100_7765_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4">Overall it was an amazing day! We had a really great time, and I’m very happy the kids got the chance to go. Great learning experience! </font></p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#0080c0" size="4"></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816809806233835492.post-32770148426102082242013-09-10T19:54:00.001-04:002013-09-10T19:54:38.143-04:00TOS Crew: PeopleKeys Review<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">As part of the review crew, you never know what your going to get to try out. This past month we got the chance to try out <a href="https://www.discinsights.com/disc-the-children-s-profile.html" target="_blank">The Children’s Profile</a>, by <a href="http://www.peoplekeys.com/" target="_blank">PeopleKeys</a>. </font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">Do any of you try to sit and figure out what personality traits from your kids are like your husband, or yourself? I am always comparing our children to either of us. I like to see where they get things from. </font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">This profile was fun to do for that reason. </font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"></font> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/People%20Keys/peoplekeys-childrensprofile_zps4c217fc3.jpg" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/People%20Keys/peoplekeys-childrensprofile_zps4c217fc3.jpg" width="366" height="462"></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"></font> </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"><strong><em>About The Children’s Profile</em></strong>:</font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">This is designed for ages 9-13. DISC assessments point out insights of how people operate. (Which I have to say, is something I have always found interesting) </font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">The assessment was really easy to understand, and easy to complete. It only takes minutes to finish. </font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="4">Some of the things this could help with: </font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#800080" size="4">Getting along better with siblings, friends, and classmates</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="4">Communicating tips</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="4">Get strengths of your child </font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="4">Helps children to grow and communicate better with people</font></li></ul> <p><font color="#800080" size="4"></font> </p><font color="#800080" size="4"> <p><br><strong><em>How we used this</em></strong>: </p> <p> </p> <p>I used this on my 11 yr old son, and my 8 yr old daughter (even though she was slightly under suggested age). </p> <p>Monkey man did his assessment pretty quickly, but I think he was almost right on! He was a (IC personality). The ones that certainly stand out to me, are the “Unorganized”, and “Sensitive”. Some of the interacting with an “I” child tips, have really helped me so far. I never really thought of it the way he did. </p> <p>He found it really interesting to see it kind of tell him what he had for personality. </p> <p> </p> <p>Little Monkey on the other hand took a few more minutes to complete her assessment, but she understood it alright. She was a hands down (S personality) child. Like that is her dead on. The traits that just screamed her were “Easygoing” and “Kind Hearted”. Little Monkey is always looking out for others, and just goes with the flow! I have also been using some of the tips with her as well. </p> <p>She really thought this was interesting as well. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>My thoughts</em></strong>: </p> <p>This was really neat to do. It is great to see what makes people tick! It has been a fun review in our house. Now that I have used it on them, both kids think that we need to do the assessment on all our family members! </p> <p>We really enjoyed this! </p> <p> </p> <p>Using PeopleKeys would really be helpful in your homeschool, if you are trying to see what kind of personalities your children possess. Then you can help them to have better relationships with there friends and peers. </p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Price</em></strong>: </p> <p>You can purchase <a href="https://www.discinsights.com/disc-the-children-s-profile.html" target="_blank">The Children’s Profile</a> for $15. If you enjoy that, you can also look at some other great products from <a href="http://www.peoplekeys.com/" target="_blank">PeopleKeys</a>. </p> <p> </p> <p>Check out what other <a href="http://schoolhousereviewcrew.com/people-keys-review/" target="_blank">TOS Crew</a> members are saying about their products! </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><img alt="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif" src="http://i1202.photobucket.com/albums/bb374/TOSCrew2011/DisclaimerGraphic1_zpsf612f371.gif"></p> <p></font></p> The Bertone'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06304140718488900572noreply@blogger.com0