tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27946378398033881262024-03-05T02:40:59.482-05:00Home School DawnA lady named Dawn writing about home, school, and homeschool.homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.comBlogger518125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-59688595897161834822019-05-10T13:34:00.000-04:002019-05-23T15:05:50.159-04:00Homeschool Dawn Out<br />
A little more than 20 years ago, I found out I was expecting a baby.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This guy!</span></td></tr>
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When he was <b>five months old</b>, I found out I was expecting again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ls7WYotYgnHRKZXmcIqSsUmPONxCsbKHjm5UvCt-pK2VLRrHvDxqgGnx0248A0ggxIfsXRzJ4UG2BYhHzVc7jXL14mN-jcwonmMhKM37D2uP8woimXpjRfGErnZc91xLDdG_-he3l2g/s1600/1+Bri+SS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="254" data-original-width="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Ls7WYotYgnHRKZXmcIqSsUmPONxCsbKHjm5UvCt-pK2VLRrHvDxqgGnx0248A0ggxIfsXRzJ4UG2BYhHzVc7jXL14mN-jcwonmMhKM37D2uP8woimXpjRfGErnZc91xLDdG_-he3l2g/s1600/1+Bri+SS.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another baby boy!</span></td></tr>
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Regular readers, you know the story, but let me bring those just tuning in up to speed.<br />
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I married my husband Michael in my early 20s. We had been best friends for a year, dated for a year and half, and were engaged for a year. During that long courtship, we talked about a lot of things. Both of us are extremely logical, over-thinkers, planners. We wanted to make sure we had the same ideas concerning just about everything--including how we would raise our future kids. On the day we said, "I do!" we knew we wanted to have several kids and we promised each other we would homeschool them--from birth to high school graduation.<br />
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I was floored when life didn't immediately pan out according to our <i>amazing </i>plan. We didn't have a whole bunch of kids right away. In fact, we faced infertility and then the Lord gave and the Lord took away. At least four babies--I don't really know exactly how many miscarriages I had--went to be with him. I felt like I was living a nightmare during that season of life, but it was for my sanctification. I grew in grace and my understanding of what the Scriptures teach concerning God's sovereignty, and I reached a place of being able to proclaim like Job, "Blessed be the name of the Lord."<br />
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Healthy Baby 1, Ben, jolted into this world like a thunderbolt. He tried to hold his head up at 10 minutes old. I am <i>not</i> exaggerating. He screamed liked a banshee when I kept him from trying again lest he hurt himself. He didn't stop screaming for nearly a year.<br />
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I completely freaked out when I saw the test results that clearly indicated Healthy Baby 2, Brian, was on the way. Don't get me wrong. I wanted babies--lots of them. I just wasn't sure if I could handle two little screamers at the same time. Thankfully, Brian was not a screamer. He was a content, peaceful, easy-to-manage little bundle of sweetness.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1-year-old Ben would frequently go to Brian<br />
in his baby swing, <br />
put his head near Brian's, <br />
and say, "Ahhh."</td></tr>
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Ben was a bundle of sweetness too, btw. He was just a very LOUD bundle of sweetness. Lol!<br />
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Five years flew by and it was TIME TO START SCHOOL!<br />
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I was thrilled! I had wanted to homeschool my own kids for 12 years at that point. I had centers and interactive bulletin boards. I painted the walls of the classroom in scenery to match the subject matter for that area. It was bright and colorful and everything was labeled. I took <i>print-rich environment</i> to a whole new level!<br />
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We studied history, art, music, math, geography, foreign language, birds! Lots and lots and lots of birds! We read good books. We wrote stories. We sang, danced, and painted. There were science fairs and birding competitions, international festivals and speech tournaments, soccer and tennis and karate.<br />
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There was an autism diagnosis, OT, VT, speech therapy, social-thinking therapy. There was a lupus diagnosis and chemotherapy. Legs had to be reconstructed. An EKG had to be run 6 times. There were many, many visits to neurologists, rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, orthopedists, internists, endocrinologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, and more "ologists" than I can recount.<br />
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We started a homeschool co-op and I taught 4 students, then 12 students, then 19 students...I will be teaching 40-60 this fall. B & B took science, math, journalism, computer science, government, economics, archery, and more. It opened their world to so much more than I could have done alone, yet the whirlwind of responsibility kept me so busy that suddenly I looked up...<br />
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...and another 12 years had passed.<br />
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Last May Ben graduated from Hays Home Academy with high honors. He earned a 5.1 weighted GPA and 29 hours college credit. He earned his black belt in Tang Soo Do karate and received the President's Volunteer Service Award--an award given by the White House to students who rank in the top 10% nationally for the number of volunteer service hours they complete. He accepted over $100,000 in academic scholarships, including the VPAA Scholarship offered by his college and the Zell Miller Scholarship offered by the State of Georgia. He was the first homeschooled student at his college to be awarded the Zell Miller Scholarship.<br />
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Currently, he has one year of college under his belt, has declared History as his major with minors in Spanish and Political Science. He has made his school's VPAA list (highest honors) for his dual enrollment year and his freshman year and should be inducted within the year to four honor societies. He was a freshman senator and is now serving on the Student Activities Council. He is a writer for the college paper and faithfully attends Reformation and other religious organizations. He is debating whether he will go to law school or complete a master's and a Ph.D. in history with the goal of being a professor. And he wants to be a Fulbright Scholar and study in Korea or Japan. In other words, he's driven and quite the academic achiever.<br />
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Brian graduated from Hays Home Academy last week with honors. He earned a 3.75 GPA with 22 hours college credit. He also earned a black belt in Tang Soo Do karate and completed hundreds of volunteer service hours at his dojo. He is a valued employee at a great place to work and has been nominated for employee of the month multiple times. (He's going to win it one of these days; I just know it.) :) He was accepted to every college he applied, and for a while, it looked like that was the direction he would take. He had narrowed it to a particular school that is a 45-minute drive from our house. Not wanting to live in the dorms per their freshman requirement, he planned to take general ed courses at the local community college until he met the hour requirement to commute. However, a week before graduation, he had a change of heart.<br />
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We sat together on my bed, and he poured out his heart. Even though he has worked hard to keep his GPA up and he has the academic ability and work ethic to complete a college degree, he really does not want one at this time. For the past year we had looked at everything that fits his personality and talents. Engineering...nope. Computer programming...not interested. Graphic Design...nah. Information Technology...maybe...yes...wait...um....no...not really. In that moment of truth, he admitted that the past year of dual enrollment had been miserable for him. He wants to be outside. He wants to move and problem solve and use his hands. He is tired of books and subjects that don't interest him. Instead, he wants to be an electrician.<br />
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And you know what? Michael and I proudly support him in that decision. Because there is a shortage of electricians in Georgia, the state is going to completely fund his schooling. He should be placed in a paid apprenticeship within two years and have a nest egg instead of college debt. If he works hard, he can reach master electrician before he turns 30 and be set in a profitable career that suits him.<br />
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Ben and Brian are two very different people, both wonderfully and fearfully made and gifted to serve God in unique ways. I praise God that his grace is evident in both of their lives. Over the years the truth that homeschooling is not the guarantee of our salvation has been clearly proven to us. It is not a guarantee that kids will turn out happy, well-adjusted, or loving what is right in God's sight either. However, the Lord has enabled us to disciple our children through our lifestyle of learning, and we praise him that they are bearing fruit consistent with repentance. That is a work of grace, not of homeschooling.<br />
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I have enjoyed writing about them all these years. Perhaps, when they fly the nest completely, I will have more time to reflect and write about what I learned over the years. For now I will say that I am thankful to God that he directed a young man and a young woman to talk about homeschooling and enabled them to follow through, even through significant challenges.<br />
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There was a time I doubted it would happen. Then there was a time I doubted I would survive it all. Now, I'm at a place where I am wondering how it all went by so fast. The girl who couldn't wait to homeschool is done. She has given almost all her time and talents (and definitely all her spoons) to the home education of her children and the support of other homeschoolers.<br />
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She is confident it was time well spent.<br />
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Here is a look at Ben through the years! This slideshow played at his high school graduation.<br />
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Here is a look at Brian through the years! This slideshow played at his high school graduation.<br />
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Thank you for reading and following our adventures in homeschooling. May the Lord bless you and keep you!<br />
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<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-54818586275463744542016-07-19T16:11:00.000-04:002016-07-19T16:11:05.586-04:00Prayers for Ben<br />
I know one of the deadly sins of blogging is to begin a post with the words, "I'm sorry I haven't blogged in forever." However, this is one of those times that I must throw the Blogging Commandments out the window. It has been over a year since I have written anything here, and in that time, I have received a few kind emails of introduction from new readers and questions from others. I have been just plain rude and not responded to anyone. It's not because I am typically rude. It is because life outside the blogosphere has been full and challenging. I have found no time in my day, week or year apparently to manage this blog. Thank you so much for reading and enjoying my content. I really do appreciate it and I hope one day to return this blog to its original purpose.<br />
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For now, I am going to revive the blog a bit for a different purpose: keeping family, friends and interested readers in the loop concerning a new development with my son Ben. (If you clicked over from facebook or twitter because you want to know why I am asking for prayers for Ben, this is the part for you!)<br />
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Ben was recently diagnosed with (yet another) rare, genetic disorder. This one has caused severe deformity in his legs. Both of his femurs are over-rotated inwardly at a 40-45 degree angle. His lower leg bones (both legs) are rotated outwardly at about a 30 degree angle.<br />
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He will undergo 2 surgeries, both double osteotomies, next year-- his senior year of high school. If he does not have this corrected now, he will face permanent disability in the future-- possibly in a wheelchair by his 30s.<br />
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In late May or early June of 2017, he will have the 1st surgery. One leg will be corrected. I'm not sure which one yet as the surgeon will go through the specific details with us closer to the date of the operation. The femur and the tibia will be cut into, both bones rotated to the proper position, and then pinned into place. Rods may be inserted as well.<br />
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He will be in the hospital for 2-3 days following the surgery and will begin intensive physical therapy while there. Once home, he will continue PT locally and will have to learn to use that leg properly as it heals. This is going to be a long, hard process, taking 4-6 months, because he will have to develop muscles that have atrophied because he cannot move them because of how his bones are positioned. He will also have to relearn how to walk and do it the "right way."<br />
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Then, he will return for surgery on the other leg-- same procedure followed by the same recovery, same therapy.<br />
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In total, he will be in intensive physical therapy and recovering from surgery for 8-12 months, essentially his entire senior year of high school.<br />
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We will not know the date of his surgery until Nov/Dec. We are delaying the surgery until May because if we scheduled sooner, it would keep him from completing dual enrollment this year and there could be complications with our insurance switch over in January. We want to keep things in one calendar year and allow him to finish this year of school without the disruption of 2 surgeries and PT.<br />
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When we know a surgery date and the surgeon has given us more details, I will update you. I will also update you here during the surgeries and recoveries throughout the next year. For now let me give a few pre-surgery prayer requests:<br />
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<ol>
<li>This is a long time for all of us to anticipate the what-ifs and scary bits of surgery. I'll be honest and say that I cried a lot when we received the diagnosis and was told that surgery is absolutely necessary. We are all adjusting to the idea and feeling thankful that he can have this corrected. However, it is hard to have something like this hanging over your head. </li>
<li>I've already jumped several insurance and medical hoops. I am sure there will be more. Please pray that I will have the energy to do it all and that all surgeries, therapies and related costs will be covered by our insurance. I'm already budgeting/saving for tons of co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses. Pray for God to provide abundantly.</li>
<li>Because we want to delay, we cannot schedule the surgery until they open their books for the next year (Nov/Dec). We should be 1st in line and be able to pick whatever date we want. Please pray for this timing though. Everything really needs to line up perfectly because we also still have a Marfan's Syndrome appointment that will take place in the middle of all this. He has to be able to stand on his own (no crutches) for that appointment. We need the final results about Marfan's (a 2-year ordeal) in the fall of his senior year so we will be able to make decisions concerning college. Marfan's is a VERY serious condition and if he has it, it will dictate where he is allowed to go to school. That all has to take place while he has healed from the 1st surgery and before the 2nd surgery takes place. Do you feel a migraine coming on from reading that? Yeah, me too! :) </li>
<li>This is a bit premature and will probably come up again, but we need a school plan for 2017-18 both for Ben and Brian. Wisdom. Pray for wisdom in this area please.</li>
<li>Pray for Ben's college application process. We are trying to get as much done as is possible this school year (his junior year) because many things will be impossible or extremely complicated to do once the surgeries begin. </li>
<li>I fear some of you will think I'm being whiny or melodramatic or something not very positive because of this statement, but truly, pray for Ben to come through this with greater maturity and great testimony of God's goodness and faithfulness. He has been through so much for a 16 year old. We have had to delay his graduation (a planned early graduation, granted) because of autism and Marfan's. He has faced a lot of disappointment in the past 4 years. And, you know, most high school seniors are considering what they will do after graduation and who they're going to homecoming and prom with... he has to have both of his legs rearranged, recover, find out if he has a potentially fatal illness, and then go through the leg thing again. I know he is not the only young person to suffer and worse things have happened to others (and I love you all but I don't want to hear any stories about other people and their problems right now), but let me just be honest and transparent and say that this hurts. It hurts bad. I can put one foot in front of the other right now because I know God's promises and trust Him. Ben does too. Pray that we will grow in grace together.</li>
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One final note: I know some of you who know me irl are probably wondering if will we continue to homeschool and to run Olive Plants Co-op/teach homeschool classes. The short answer is yes. We are not sure how Ben is going to complete school the 1st semester while recovering (see #4) and Brian needs the Olive Plants tutors even more with all of this going on with his brother. We also need our tutoring income to pay for all the medical expenses. We have some plans in place to allow me the time off I need for Ben but to also keep the co-op in full operation in my absence. An official statement will be released to the OP Co-op members before registration for 2017-18 begins. Rest assured, we need and love Olive Plants.</div>
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Thank you for letting me share all of that with you. Thank you for lifting our arms. Thank you for caring about our son and his needs. We love you all in the Lord!<br />
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<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-61150473446869826442014-08-18T12:55:00.003-04:002014-08-18T17:12:22.267-04:00Looking Back and Looking Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last school year was so hard. </div>
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I mean HAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRD!</div>
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I began the year knowing I had MCTD/Lupus and taking meds that were making me feel somewhat better... just well enough that I<em> thought</em> I was ok. Truthfully, I was in denial about how NOT OK I really was. Feeling empowered by a new-found modicum of strength and energy, I rushed headlong into the year, ready to take on a full, taxing schedule. </div>
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Then I got some bad news... or rather MORE bad news.</div>
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In November, my lab work came back questionable. It looked like I was developing kidney disease, and my rheumatologist prescribed a weekly shot of a chemotherapy drug to slow my immune system so that it would not destroy my vital organs. Even though I was feeling better, my inflammation levels were off the charts and stronger measures were needed.</div>
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Long story short, chemo + homeschool + mothering + part-time work made for an<em> interesting</em> year. We had to stop, reevaluate, and make many changes to the plans we had just begun to set in motion. (You can read more about my condition at my Lupus blog,<a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/"> I'm a Little Lupie</a>.) And blogging, other than the occasional post at Lupie to keep those praying for me informed, was the first of my many activities to be cut. </div>
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As a result, this blog is nearly dead. My stats show some regular traffic and pins that get bounced around Pinterest and certain posts that pull in a decent number of readers per week. However, only a handful of you are still truly hanging around here, reading my new stuff (what little there is). </div>
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I'm fine with that, however, because despite the poor health of the blog,<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> I am alive and well</span></strong>... doing so much better than I was one year ago. Although I doubt reviving this blog will be part of this year's agenda, I would like at least to share a little glimpse of the good parts of last year while sharing our plans for this year. </div>
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Let's look back at what I just didn't have time or energy to write last year while looking forward to what I hope this year will include...</div>
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But, as always (and perhaps with greater understanding), these plans assume "Lord willing."</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHAezrmYe0B2kb-DcgonWQuYhHG6HKRYFYampe7lvKph_nXe3Z9zsjjNzBEMTDuqxt1ZUCI9yCSCQZO1UGGdk60GIxANVRt4M81-WYrBnToTro-S2AFdomWrAHiFLd2d3TmE15h5VtTU/s1600/Ben's+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHAezrmYe0B2kb-DcgonWQuYhHG6HKRYFYampe7lvKph_nXe3Z9zsjjNzBEMTDuqxt1ZUCI9yCSCQZO1UGGdk60GIxANVRt4M81-WYrBnToTro-S2AFdomWrAHiFLd2d3TmE15h5VtTU/s1600/Ben's+14.jpg" height="209" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ben</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">10th Grade</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bible/Christian Living</span><br />
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<ol>
<li>Each year our family reads through the Bible using the <a href="http://www.ligonier.org/blog/bible-reading-plans/">52-week reading plan</a>. We like that each day of the week is dedicated to a different genre (e.g. Sundays = Gospels, Wed = poetry). It helps break up the more difficult or (don't hate me) less interesting portions, and we stay on track most successfully with this approach.</li>
<li>Each boy has a yearly reading list. Here is Ben's:</li>
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<ul><ul>
<li><em>Knowing God</em>, Packer</li>
<li><em>Desiring God</em>, Piper</li>
<li><em>Do Hard Things</em>, Harris</li>
<li><em>Start Here</em>, Harris </li>
<li><em>The Holiness of God</em>, Sproul</li>
<li><em>Total Truth</em>, Pearcy</li>
<li><em>Gospel</em>, JD Greer</li>
<li><em>The Christian View of Man</em>, Machen</li>
<li><em>Discovering God's Will</em>, Ferguson</li>
<li><em>The Pursuit of God</em>, Tozer</li>
<li><em>The Crucial Questions Series</em>, Sproul</li>
<li><em>Developing a Healthy Prayer Life</em>, Beeke</li>
<li><em>Holiness</em>, Ryle</li>
<li><em>Idolatry</em>, Ryle</li>
<li><em>Don't Waste Your Life</em>, Piper</li>
<li><em>Radical</em>, Platt</li>
<li><em>Taking God at His Word</em>, DeYoung</li>
<li><em>7 Men</em>, Metaxas</li>
<li><em>The Cost of Discipleship</em>, Bonhoeffer</li>
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You can find links to most of those titles in my bookshelf located in the right sidebar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqoP5beaJp-aMtwLtLCKPzZ67WvM4HptoPiPKo71tWpijoqRikAeJncbnVDmD1SyP7ADXmV1VguwoMOR3sg4g-SgpYJlu88fzjPibqsnwnWIe5Q7x65nrp9lPsz3dSB2_pTqRsllG-aw/s1600/Ben+with+brace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqoP5beaJp-aMtwLtLCKPzZ67WvM4HptoPiPKo71tWpijoqRikAeJncbnVDmD1SyP7ADXmV1VguwoMOR3sg4g-SgpYJlu88fzjPibqsnwnWIe5Q7x65nrp9lPsz3dSB2_pTqRsllG-aw/s1600/Ben+with+brace.jpg" height="301" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here is our olive plant in front of my painting,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><em>Olive Plants</em>. Oh yeah, he just got braces!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">English/Language Arts</span><br />
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<ol>
<li>He will complete a portion of this credit at co-op in a class I will teach. During the first semester, he will review essay writing using <em>The Elegant Essay</em> (IEW). I will also fold in some of their materials on creative writing. During the 2nd semester, I will teach <em>Writing Research Papers</em> (IEW). He will also review grammar with <em>Analytical Grammar</em> and editing assignments that I create.</li>
<li>At home, he will complete<em> World Literature</em> (Dr. Stobaugh, For Such a Time as This).</li>
<li>For Vocabulary, I will teach Latin and Gk roots and English derivatives at co-op. He will study SAT prep words at home (although we still don't know exactly what we're going to do in this area because the SAT changes will affect him). </li>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEadQOLEawZhEejJku3-E_r4GWGAsi6zDb8dGMNQpsWZzxp6ZGIDi5JkhKqtnKVhd1SLKGwKgItIF66C-9rNaG6WYuxgmwNR0D6no7rfOs-je5qs2d0_ZHBM7tbb9TA7wJ99aJ6pv5J3Y/s1600/christmas+party+bres+hat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEadQOLEawZhEejJku3-E_r4GWGAsi6zDb8dGMNQpsWZzxp6ZGIDi5JkhKqtnKVhd1SLKGwKgItIF66C-9rNaG6WYuxgmwNR0D6no7rfOs-je5qs2d0_ZHBM7tbb9TA7wJ99aJ6pv5J3Y/s1600/christmas+party+bres+hat+2.jpg" height="207" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ben and Brian are not in this picture; however,<br />
it shows how much fun we have at co-op!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Math</span><br />
<br />
We are officially a <em>Teaching Textbooks</em> family. Last year I really struggled to keep up with math after I started chemo. I had to ditch the old math program because I did not have the spoons or available brain cells to tutor Algebra 2. TT required absolutely nothing from me. He completely self-managed his math studies for the 1st time ever and maintained a 99 average. I'm sold! This year he will complete TT Geometry.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9JqPwmzQ0wrUCC7bodhdb2xkO5i-_bH_qPLVmvr_RopDXnx8qLOX8HfkDbfN8F-J8zsDDskdfefUaBXuiXB57fhXDS6GjFXzlljIuCvQg-dQOeF2zciM-9AKXDgjAi03_VLDxEHIrzE/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9JqPwmzQ0wrUCC7bodhdb2xkO5i-_bH_qPLVmvr_RopDXnx8qLOX8HfkDbfN8F-J8zsDDskdfefUaBXuiXB57fhXDS6GjFXzlljIuCvQg-dQOeF2zciM-9AKXDgjAi03_VLDxEHIrzE/s1600/008.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">We've started visiting colleges!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Ahhhhhh!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Science</span><br />
He will take Chemistry at co-op with his papaw as the teacher. Papaw likes to teach from BJU... works for me!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmSXfpJj9B92xTd_HxzHVtyDKEghHjMu91VrrWcT456pR6nD1sgm-phiLZk3L5cGn3N2wQefGfx5fD3BWTju6C4gaSsSJQcxh4P3NijSUyeviGP_g9kaoW6v13_QMCmWtIC3ZXQvZ_7M/s1600/science+fair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmSXfpJj9B92xTd_HxzHVtyDKEghHjMu91VrrWcT456pR6nD1sgm-phiLZk3L5cGn3N2wQefGfx5fD3BWTju6C4gaSsSJQcxh4P3NijSUyeviGP_g9kaoW6v13_QMCmWtIC3ZXQvZ_7M/s1600/science+fair.jpg" height="304" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ben won the science fair last year (high school division)<br />
for his project "Tweet Side Story."<br />
He observed and kept records of bird populations<br />
in our county.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Social Studies</span><br />
<ol>
<li>He will complete the 2nd half of a world history credit by completing the 2nd half of Dr. Stobaugh's <em>World History</em> course. This curriculum is intended for 1 year; however, I divided it into 2 years because last year I had him try out the<em> Ron Paul Curriculum</em> and Dr. Grant's online course. (Antiquity OVERLOAD!) Neither of those options worked as well for us as Dr. Stobaugh's course. </li>
<li>He will also complete a half credit of World Geography using <em>Mapping the World by Heart</em>.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZGgGRcn47Gc4PganB7LAEGmGF3FlTQilBZ9zk3rPhUd_DQepc4ji8x-cGxF07c8h3wGmJruraS4aNwNzs6KPYNJHjTBvqi3aclOcyMLp7n3oshGi4IeRqAKuUOZowUfqwZ_JPSrygcU/s1600/birding+on+south+beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZGgGRcn47Gc4PganB7LAEGmGF3FlTQilBZ9zk3rPhUd_DQepc4ji8x-cGxF07c8h3wGmJruraS4aNwNzs6KPYNJHjTBvqi3aclOcyMLp7n3oshGi4IeRqAKuUOZowUfqwZ_JPSrygcU/s1600/birding+on+south+beach.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They enjoyed the coastal region of Georgia<br />
during the YBC in April.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Foreign Language</span><br />
<ol>
<li>He starts Spanish IV this year! Dad is the teacher, and he will use<em> Dos Mundos</em> (his college text) and <em>DGP Spanish</em>.</li>
<li>Ben wants to branch out and start Korean, too. We have a large Korean community in our town due to one of the industries located here. He will take lessons from a native speaker and practice with all our Korean friends. (We hope. I'm still looking for a teacher. If anyone local can help connect us with a teacher, please contact me!)</li>
</ol>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO7MgYO-fUrMcQFaFPifK5VIY4ZfehLEBQdL0VeKnI9qptdN_ASp1mZv8nCiR2tFBdLgzYg4jpW3iHiX1Uad2Lnz3NVITdM7_GevtdvcEIJ4E-Py1sp7G4r5tDIkX9koiTIADqeEuSrU/s1600/with+Dad+and+Ben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO7MgYO-fUrMcQFaFPifK5VIY4ZfehLEBQdL0VeKnI9qptdN_ASp1mZv8nCiR2tFBdLgzYg4jpW3iHiX1Uad2Lnz3NVITdM7_GevtdvcEIJ4E-Py1sp7G4r5tDIkX9koiTIADqeEuSrU/s1600/with+Dad+and+Ben.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We enjoyed birding with Dad last year, <br />
as well as speaking Spanish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Electives</span><br />
<ol>
<li>Health- We debated whether or not to include this and then wrestled with what curriculum to use. We decided it was a necessary, easy credit and chose the curriculum from Glencoe. It is not Christian but it is not contradictory to what we are already teaching him through relational, day-to-day, Biblical teaching and parenting. </li>
<li>P.E.- Karate! He loves his karate lessons and sensei. We are so blessed to have a great studio in town led by a Christian, homeschooling family.</li>
<li>Keyboarding- Mavis Beacon. He's been working on it all summer, and his speed and accuracy are improving. </li>
<li>Ballroom dancing- We have wonderful dance instructors in our area who include our teens in classes they teach for adult couples. They offer the most reasonably priced lessons I've ever encountered, and the instructors are Christians who have created a fabulous learning and social environment, including a monthly formal dance. Ben has found he is passionate about ballroom (or at least getting to go to a monthly party, lol). Michael and I love that he is learning this graceful, refined art and that it provides numerous appropriate and safe social opportunities. Win-win!</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5F_rin2jPyyxtIREEdmbCl37m2zPeNh6mCt_0cVvKf1jY4zX6UyHec4hg8Bqci4ILcVOp6zTaOTRyIuE935vGlcesn7sri7uJqc3fm5lYcdvhvGRrmfIsvryOS2DLrfkoCJEzauwxDQ/s1600/ben+with+laura.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5F_rin2jPyyxtIREEdmbCl37m2zPeNh6mCt_0cVvKf1jY4zX6UyHec4hg8Bqci4ILcVOp6zTaOTRyIuE935vGlcesn7sri7uJqc3fm5lYcdvhvGRrmfIsvryOS2DLrfkoCJEzauwxDQ/s1600/ben+with+laura.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ben is dancing with a friend, Laura, at our<br />
homeschool support group's formal dance held in April.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwPHtgbUZ3wjlFWaBG8nj3z-WlvRqZJaJxglUHm9hGb6KqbcHyswOQgSvsaxUJL8CvLugA2og6_vvYGuXy2CeKO_rkkGp9xGWxOiFOCXEo9JSfWXTX2TfcWu9cmHPZWa6B6bvqS3_jH0/s1600/formal+dance+with+olivia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwPHtgbUZ3wjlFWaBG8nj3z-WlvRqZJaJxglUHm9hGb6KqbcHyswOQgSvsaxUJL8CvLugA2og6_vvYGuXy2CeKO_rkkGp9xGWxOiFOCXEo9JSfWXTX2TfcWu9cmHPZWa6B6bvqS3_jH0/s1600/formal+dance+with+olivia.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here, he is dancing with one of my flute students (and favorite gals)!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVqKKJFvGAZlXgk9iF-sif0GvxX8x2g8yN100NIy6uePMBFFL6Kgx19OQOnUDBUmmpECqChQMOVmgR8hKTJdhjBNNOufPvmayCLQB94Wxs_ScoOcWf4LKX3USqQQycvM9cOM0Wgj_lZA/s1600/most+recent+karate+ben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVqKKJFvGAZlXgk9iF-sif0GvxX8x2g8yN100NIy6uePMBFFL6Kgx19OQOnUDBUmmpECqChQMOVmgR8hKTJdhjBNNOufPvmayCLQB94Wxs_ScoOcWf4LKX3USqQQycvM9cOM0Wgj_lZA/s1600/most+recent+karate+ben.jpg" height="320" width="259" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After his blue belt testing<br />
He is at 6th green now!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PrfxVMDq_UJZil5Ni_ymCgvXKCCpwQq2i5fLMx7A1KenhRbLlb4x7Y8Nut3oI8BlK-eK59PhG1TL6sn5jcIJDj7oqqKYaE4F7ZbrQThBMSMFFMI0Fn32E0jD61ebD1DRyJY_HZqTOnQ/s1600/Brian's+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PrfxVMDq_UJZil5Ni_ymCgvXKCCpwQq2i5fLMx7A1KenhRbLlb4x7Y8Nut3oI8BlK-eK59PhG1TL6sn5jcIJDj7oqqKYaE4F7ZbrQThBMSMFFMI0Fn32E0jD61ebD1DRyJY_HZqTOnQ/s1600/Brian's+13.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Brian</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">8th Grade</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bible/Christian Living</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Brian will follow the same 52-week Bible reading plan as Ben. Here is his additional reading list:</span><br />
<ol>
<li><em>Confessing Christ</em>, Great Commission Publications</li>
<li><em>Answers Books 1-4</em>, Ham</li>
<li><em>The Critical Questions Series</em>, Sproul</li>
<li><em>Do Hard Things</em>, Harris </li>
<li><em>Desiring God</em>, Piper</li>
<li><em>The Holiness of God</em>, Sproul</li>
<li><em>Thoughts for Young Men</em>, Ryle</li>
<li><em>Don't Check Your Brains at the Door</em>, McDowell</li>
<li><em>Calvin for Teens: Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin</em>, edited and paraphrased by Caroline Weerstra</li>
<li><em>Reformation Heroes</em>, Klyen/Beeke</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ks1oOR0bJ-L5PtejYpbS_gE27DGXlgvO5oO4oevxMA2PkpU6jNMDOaueBdLzPlIAAj34fLe_aznfKy1bNRqp8WN_i-1Ok0qvKyjb5UnqUDzOYsQM5jJGibhFez8Pbzvw0-3nVjRrXfA/s1600/Brian+in+moss+fiel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ks1oOR0bJ-L5PtejYpbS_gE27DGXlgvO5oO4oevxMA2PkpU6jNMDOaueBdLzPlIAAj34fLe_aznfKy1bNRqp8WN_i-1Ok0qvKyjb5UnqUDzOYsQM5jJGibhFez8Pbzvw0-3nVjRrXfA/s1600/Brian+in+moss+fiel.jpg" height="320" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the Creation while on Spring Break</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">English/Languge Arts</span><br />
<ol>
<li>Brian will also complete his ELA credits through co-op with me as his instructor. He will complete <em>Following Narnia</em> (IEW) and <em>Analytical Grammar, Season 2</em>.</li>
<li>At home, he will read the following books and write a book report after completing each:</li>
<ol>
<li><em>Loamhedge</em>, Jacques</li>
<li><em>Rakkety Tamm</em>, Jacques</li>
<li><em>High Rhulain</em>, Jacques</li>
<li><em>Eulalia!,</em> Jacques</li>
<li><em>Doomwyte</em>, Jacques</li>
<li><em>The Sable Queen, </em>Jacques</li>
<li><em>The Adventures of Tom Sawyer</em>, Twain</li>
<li>Sherlock Holmes (exact title, TBD), Doyle</li>
<li><em>Call of the Wild</em>, London</li>
<li><em>Treasure Island</em>, Stevenson</li>
<li><em>The Two Towers</em>, Tolkien</li>
<li><em>Return of the King</em>, Tokien </li>
<li><em>Rip Van Winkle</em> and <em>Sleepy Hollow</em>, Irving</li>
<li><em>Around the World in 80 Days</em>, Verne</li>
<li><em>The Scarlet Pimpernel</em>, Orczy</li>
<li><em>The Jungle Book</em>, Kipling</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkA8_wC6cV0k0OBEhlj19N6Cxk2zLhsVS3S0cR6kuwCN7JXupRhwqfz0HoWXWYZrKVa8lEdV-fzNuF7MjPd-2XgpfYYosXEV-2fYq5vN7AaiJa-BgCOd_58nI4GXqPOvCj3xxup3rRas/s1600/misummer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkA8_wC6cV0k0OBEhlj19N6Cxk2zLhsVS3S0cR6kuwCN7JXupRhwqfz0HoWXWYZrKVa8lEdV-fzNuF7MjPd-2XgpfYYosXEV-2fYq5vN7AaiJa-BgCOd_58nI4GXqPOvCj3xxup3rRas/s1600/misummer.jpg" height="193" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We ended the co-op year in May with a reading of <br />
Shakespeare's <em>A Midsummer Night's Dream</em>.<br />
Brian read the part of Tom Snout<br />
who plays the wall in the play within the play.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Math</span><br />
Due to Ben's success with Teaching Textbooks, Brian will complete their Algebra I course.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf9RSPet9ecbasqVMespVB-rjdSb-xeQWCjesGOeAqvJvrlJ2lBD4SN5FL8Y8qZP8DdQdALdriTaBFksvAbsz8ltWT9BR3u6rcXKD7XEhl9xEjVl-Oqbr2lC3JcTI19rkdwZFb9fu9C8/s1600/Acting+silly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf9RSPet9ecbasqVMespVB-rjdSb-xeQWCjesGOeAqvJvrlJ2lBD4SN5FL8Y8qZP8DdQdALdriTaBFksvAbsz8ltWT9BR3u6rcXKD7XEhl9xEjVl-Oqbr2lC3JcTI19rkdwZFb9fu9C8/s1600/Acting+silly.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Counting Birds with Dad and Ben</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Science</span><br />
Brian will complete Physical Science at co-op with Papaw as his teacher. Yay, Papaw!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBPXIN9p59JjqmZh6C4ZSJoXD2-nIIAn7Wh9uJi2Sl7fQgTy91cjjmGthRKnQx4zhlP664HdTns6sEE4NeHFlz3D2_57mChaik3K7BRIzOotd8xsX3FekZeQYmLuqiAVfjTNXfZNY1FY/s1600/science+fair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBPXIN9p59JjqmZh6C4ZSJoXD2-nIIAn7Wh9uJi2Sl7fQgTy91cjjmGthRKnQx4zhlP664HdTns6sEE4NeHFlz3D2_57mChaik3K7BRIzOotd8xsX3FekZeQYmLuqiAVfjTNXfZNY1FY/s1600/science+fair.jpg" height="320" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brian also won the science fair (middle school division)!<br />
He's rocking his new navy blue (on the front)<br />
and bright yellow (on the side and back) glasses.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Social Studies</span><br />
<ol>
<li>I am starting him on the 2nd year of Dr. Stobaugh's history for Jr. High. He has not completed the 1st year, but the 2nd year starts at the approximate time period that the curriculum we used last year left off. I want to get him started on this great curriculum now so that he will be ready for the high school level next year.</li>
<li>He will also complete <em>Mapping the World by Heart</em>. We looked into starting CC two years ago but there were too many aspects of the program that would not have met our needs. One part that I really liked was that the Challenge A has the students learn to draw the current world map. This curriculum teaches geography through a similar method.</li>
</ol>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjye4CGWliaipuuSlgEyrjOVkXE4SWXadpAw91sveHGryFL0s-jqwGMTPKUOjUITPwEDbnH4dFRa12t63WjEZPSYIZ1j8wgvSIAjNKf4FSSkwXA06Li9LtP4ub3pzKE1YRUiiWXuCXhyphenhyphenCM/s1600/world+puzzle+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjye4CGWliaipuuSlgEyrjOVkXE4SWXadpAw91sveHGryFL0s-jqwGMTPKUOjUITPwEDbnH4dFRa12t63WjEZPSYIZ1j8wgvSIAjNKf4FSSkwXA06Li9LtP4ub3pzKE1YRUiiWXuCXhyphenhyphenCM/s1600/world+puzzle+3.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working (and then destroying) the Global Puzzle<br />
over Summer Break</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Foreign Language</span><br />
He will complete Spanish I, taught by his dad from <em>Avancemos 1</em>. This class and Algebra I will give him two high school credits by the close of the school year!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HjborSY9qQqWwOx_ZwFVx0JMga_HvQxRuXNvad9PudWW_yPPpFndt3klRARTpd6NN0U78cFwO9g5g8NrIPiBhkI7e0z6ZqoBdcgBhWv3lakVaTOSUhjqwkWtWEfMoDo5rELELzCYTuU/s1600/christmas+party+bris+duck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HjborSY9qQqWwOx_ZwFVx0JMga_HvQxRuXNvad9PudWW_yPPpFndt3klRARTpd6NN0U78cFwO9g5g8NrIPiBhkI7e0z6ZqoBdcgBhWv3lakVaTOSUhjqwkWtWEfMoDo5rELELzCYTuU/s1600/christmas+party+bris+duck.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break from Spanish at co-op<br />
to have fun at a Christmas party.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Electives</span><br />
<ol>
<li>Karate: He LOVES karate and takes lessons at the same studio as Ben.</li>
<li>Art: This will not be an official co-op class; however, there is a teacher who has been teaching art courses at the church where our co-op will meet this year. She has lined up her teaching schedule to complement our co-op schedule, so he will take art right before his co-op classes begin. I LOVE when things like that happen! It saves soooooo many spoons!!</li>
<li>Keyboarding: He will also keep working on those skills using Mavis Beacon.</li>
<li>Programming: He started the programming courses available at Khan Academy over the summer and is enthralled. We're going to keep that going.</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRmS4c1t7g6UMxEIxtkNaDYZ9a0jan5obwtP2GYjWh4WA92VZWLTr2UHOQsPsvlP7cpWKzKVBPutPEfczhYmW2FHl10oEpDOdZe-zitX9gRkxDiIRMIdxktPnXowTJSnlcyIIvfjNz1U/s1600/YBC+2014+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRmS4c1t7g6UMxEIxtkNaDYZ9a0jan5obwtP2GYjWh4WA92VZWLTr2UHOQsPsvlP7cpWKzKVBPutPEfczhYmW2FHl10oEpDOdZe-zitX9gRkxDiIRMIdxktPnXowTJSnlcyIIvfjNz1U/s1600/YBC+2014+2.jpg" height="254" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With his birding team, getting ready for YBC 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jupUbjv9zOGe_TSvx4he3IQ3tn33NhgD89d4cABEROfqr_NDp4m93m3Eku4K5XOJRcN5R4sZJ6hDxIu5J1qMCVYaa3_7nWHaEDL4uftMuN48OeCs2iUdyXLsPD3bWI2oB4Bdpv14hIg/s1600/Bris+YBC+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jupUbjv9zOGe_TSvx4he3IQ3tn33NhgD89d4cABEROfqr_NDp4m93m3Eku4K5XOJRcN5R4sZJ6hDxIu5J1qMCVYaa3_7nWHaEDL4uftMuN48OeCs2iUdyXLsPD3bWI2oB4Bdpv14hIg/s1600/Bris+YBC+pic.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acting Silly!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhyphenhyphenTPKQnmog8bluQ3cPrMFMUzWqF5L14Pcq8s61-FItq1ewN9ZH-HUH5KLsRiNV2YE07zyH41HKE1eGSmhwN7SD-lzUbo_Fgddmdo_z7X1KitoVy5c6LDeFmSmDy2xrVfBqRaRSr09Gk/s1600/karate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhyphenhyphenTPKQnmog8bluQ3cPrMFMUzWqF5L14Pcq8s61-FItq1ewN9ZH-HUH5KLsRiNV2YE07zyH41HKE1eGSmhwN7SD-lzUbo_Fgddmdo_z7X1KitoVy5c6LDeFmSmDy2xrVfBqRaRSr09Gk/s1600/karate.jpg" height="272" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breaking Boards at Karate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
So, there you have it! <br />
<br />
As I am about to press "publish," I wonder what surprises are in store for this year. Plenty, I'm sure.<br />
<br />
However, God will direct my steps and provide the grace to do (or not to do), and for Him, there are never surprises. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Oh, the depth of the riches<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28243AY" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28243AY" title="See cross-reference AY">AY</a>)"></sup> of the wisdom and knowledge of God!<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28243AZ" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28243AZ" title="See cross-reference AZ">AZ</a>)"></sup><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Rom-11-33">How unsearchable his judgments,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Rom-11-33">and his paths beyond tracing out!<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28243BA" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28243BA" title="See cross-reference BA">BA</a>)"></sup></span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-11-34" id="en-NIV-28244"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>“Who has known the mind of the Lord?</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Rom-11-34">Or who has been his counselor?”</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #93c47d;"><span class="text Rom-11-35">“Who has ever given to God,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Rom-11-35">that God should repay them?”</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-11-36" id="en-NIV-28246"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>For from him and through him and for him are all things.<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-28246BD" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28246BD" title="See cross-reference BD">BD</a>)"></sup></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Rom-11-36">To him be the glory forever! </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #93c47d;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Rom-11-36">Amen</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Roman 11: 33-36</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
May God bless you as you start your new school year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-84095161686044560122014-07-29T19:41:00.001-04:002014-08-15T17:15:54.327-04:00It's a Give-away!<span style="color: red;">Update: I am extending the deadline on this giveaway to Sept. 1, 2014 to allow time for more entries. You can also share on Pinterest to enter, so please, help spread the word. Thanks!</span><br />
<br />
Hey Olive Planters!<br />
<br />
Are you ready for school to start?<br />
<br />
I am! I am! <br />
<br />
I have really enjoyed summer break. I have spent a lot of time at the pool, even more time lesson planning, and <a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/2014/07/to-batcave-robin.html">even fought off some bats</a>! Soon, however, the Olive Plants Home Academy will be in full swing. I will share our 2014-15 curriculum plans in days to come but wanted to take a minute to share a great resource with you today! <span style="color: #38761d;"><strong>(AND A GIVE-AWAY!)</strong></span><br />
<br />
It is my honor to spotlight a very talented curriculum and e-book author, Kathy Hutto. She is a personal friend of mine-- a sweet, God-honoring lady with two of the nicest kids you could ever meet (one of them is a student at the co-op I lead). She also just happens to have amazing teaching ideas oozing from her pores.<br />
<br />
Here is just a sampling of the many wonderful items available at her <a href="http://www.currclick.com/browse.php?manufacturers_id=322&term=kathy%20hutto">CurrClick store</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNY8-GZ0nsUQorrOFVxQltZjF6XVa5QGu4nwgvSc-V35P-TXiC-fSBoAk1V0O6vBgLKFGES3zjdcXX522M12Ugd9jKpJsS6AMmdfoqzzkMXV3tbWmVT7AHm6slO4FKdlg1tOZy536XlPk/s1600/kathy's+homeschool+planner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNY8-GZ0nsUQorrOFVxQltZjF6XVa5QGu4nwgvSc-V35P-TXiC-fSBoAk1V0O6vBgLKFGES3zjdcXX522M12Ugd9jKpJsS6AMmdfoqzzkMXV3tbWmVT7AHm6slO4FKdlg1tOZy536XlPk/s1600/kathy's+homeschool+planner.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">An Excellent Homeschool Planner</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxtXb9vS4xGHkvEeFjlImOd6n0DOYyrCG87k_H1dWGF6KqaAQzNEAOJeTTpdXiDggN6kqkysmCUpLTQTGWH38juP6eBhjBtNQrs1vqR1wmTtz6Wv2cUre6Imrh9v7b30DLQQS1eNiM08/s1600/kathy's+unit+study.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirxtXb9vS4xGHkvEeFjlImOd6n0DOYyrCG87k_H1dWGF6KqaAQzNEAOJeTTpdXiDggN6kqkysmCUpLTQTGWH38juP6eBhjBtNQrs1vqR1wmTtz6Wv2cUre6Imrh9v7b30DLQQS1eNiM08/s1600/kathy's+unit+study.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unit Studies</span><br />
<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8I7Ly4VXRRAiQx7iShGT0a4RHVNngLl3VeDTX-HOLTxibr-SmQ8Ne61GfmIF7h_I2JgvgM-ng7tygqEzAejwldo2I1LCG7AeBfxl0DPz6ejlQWLqHHgZmBKka0q9l-ByoS4jvqBzyGOY/s1600/kathy's+virtual+field+trip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8I7Ly4VXRRAiQx7iShGT0a4RHVNngLl3VeDTX-HOLTxibr-SmQ8Ne61GfmIF7h_I2JgvgM-ng7tygqEzAejwldo2I1LCG7AeBfxl0DPz6ejlQWLqHHgZmBKka0q9l-ByoS4jvqBzyGOY/s1600/kathy's+virtual+field+trip.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Virtual Field Trips!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7t3qiasgBuTL-9PZFP3RJQf9-2LNvrHn2hHudHrvkjGbTrNvfYJBcBw1kkZq5B9iuHm66IzOSRN3jVapGwHuVQElF8tJORHeo6eXZ1r8pAKAZJc8MHZ7GspaOXUohVzX9qKu9lsYyWE/s1600/kathy's+tea+party+etiquette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7t3qiasgBuTL-9PZFP3RJQf9-2LNvrHn2hHudHrvkjGbTrNvfYJBcBw1kkZq5B9iuHm66IzOSRN3jVapGwHuVQElF8tJORHeo6eXZ1r8pAKAZJc8MHZ7GspaOXUohVzX9qKu9lsYyWE/s1600/kathy's+tea+party+etiquette.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Supplemental Materials</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVbILoMhQ26gKURYcCFDE9s-XiGnemCxYLVV8zAGVbj-XsK3wFM_6keDJQHXvSEYJCvEIkIqQjovbn_B4d8I4KSgtzeCDq0Zj9b_tXV2TytfQ0CJBgWDg9kddEQOKnt0sAHNBu0SgZ50/s1600/kathy's+resource+for+dyslexic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVbILoMhQ26gKURYcCFDE9s-XiGnemCxYLVV8zAGVbj-XsK3wFM_6keDJQHXvSEYJCvEIkIqQjovbn_B4d8I4KSgtzeCDq0Zj9b_tXV2TytfQ0CJBgWDg9kddEQOKnt0sAHNBu0SgZ50/s1600/kathy's+resource+for+dyslexic.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Resources for Special Needs Students</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6tBm7A-FbL1Tl4SIR807bgFz-3Szz0vxYRZ0vza5VkaunjQhVreGnv9_o3zWfwVADPxi1FJBcS7BMW97_qxocyAYs06U6XrKbFZSo0qzIRNWcKRzSPb37ppv2wQ0YGLyLrGm7wW47Rk/s1600/kathy%2527s+ebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6tBm7A-FbL1Tl4SIR807bgFz-3Szz0vxYRZ0vza5VkaunjQhVreGnv9_o3zWfwVADPxi1FJBcS7BMW97_qxocyAYs06U6XrKbFZSo0qzIRNWcKRzSPb37ppv2wQ0YGLyLrGm7wW47Rk/s1600/kathy%2527s+ebook.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">...and even a book </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">on writing and publishing ebooks!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://www.currclick.com/browse.php?manufacturers_id=322&term=kathy%20hutto">Kathy also offers memory aids, posters, lapbooks, spelling sheets, and (my personal fave) silly sentences</a>. She is such a gifted and experienced teacher who has taken great care to publish affordable materials for use at home or in a formal school setting. Most of her items cost between 50 cents and $5! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.currclick.com/browse.php?manufacturers_id=322&term=kathy%20hutto"><span style="font-size: large;">You should click over and check out her store now</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">She has also graciously offered to give away </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">one of her fabulous products (up to $25) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to an Olive Plants reader!</span></div>
<br />
To enter, visit Kathy's <a href="http://www.currclick.com/browse.php?manufacturers_id=322&term=kathy%20hutto">CurrClick store</a> and tell me in comments to this post what item you would choose if you were the give-away winner. <br />
<br />
You can earn 1 bonus entry each by sharing about this giveaway on facebook or twitter. Notify me here in comments or include #kathyhutto in your post/tweet so I can give you credit.<br />
<br />
Earn three bonus entries by liking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Olive-Plants/342022805830440">Olive Plants</a> on facebook and/or following me on twitter, @Homeschooldawn.<br />
<br />
Earn FIVE bonus entries by subscribing to Olive Plants.<br />
<br />
You have until August 13th to enter. I will pick a winner using random.org. (I'm old school because I don't want to buy a rafflecopter subscription right now. ;-)<br />
<br />
Happy last few days of summer!<br />
<br />
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-83821311006376872422014-06-10T20:15:00.001-04:002014-06-10T23:05:44.056-04:00The L-O-N-G- Awaited RevealLast summer, Michael and I, with the help of the boys and my parents, remodeled the boys' bedrooms. Actually, because they were soon to be teenagers, we moved them into their own bedrooms for the 1st time in a long, long time. I got to play interior decorator and design two rooms to match two very distinct personalities. ;-)<br />
<br />
By this time last year, we had finished the painting, bought the furniture, and gotten everyone moved into their new spaces. Soon afterward, <a href="http://www.imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/">I started chemo</a> and switched from Martha Stewart-mode to survival mode. It took every ounce of energy Michael and I had to get "regular" life done, so the finishing touches on the room had to be postponed.<br />
<br />
But, finally, here it is! <br />
<br />
As promised many moons ago... Brian's finished room!!<br />
<br />
Okay, if you think really hard, you might remember how the room looked after we painted last year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLPfQ9mLwTFuzbGedDPjGjHQb4nxIPn7ciKW4iFUzSzoZ3R7qwkjr6mIbjirg7qF0v9yO93LR1I3-R_TYOAdnGXpkLc70UrCOGxWMTRc-q0SvUAmYH5xRnbgcIM8p3IEsbFJHH4V5FM8/s1600/opening+view+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLPfQ9mLwTFuzbGedDPjGjHQb4nxIPn7ciKW4iFUzSzoZ3R7qwkjr6mIbjirg7qF0v9yO93LR1I3-R_TYOAdnGXpkLc70UrCOGxWMTRc-q0SvUAmYH5xRnbgcIM8p3IEsbFJHH4V5FM8/s1600/opening+view+wm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was a bit worried about painting the room bright yellow,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">but you held my hand and told me it would be alright.</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqdLPDzj59sE9u1BnwVR7vPUOzbu-Ngca_lzRM3oljolrL68zQ_1ZM7iROv7tmpf15jBBB3CErgjv535Q2b8oERvWzq_DOPEvsmH28bvgZDCWMsgYAbZnTNa3zOO4JbxBNHTKldTCeA8/s1600/1st+shot+from+door+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqdLPDzj59sE9u1BnwVR7vPUOzbu-Ngca_lzRM3oljolrL68zQ_1ZM7iROv7tmpf15jBBB3CErgjv535Q2b8oERvWzq_DOPEvsmH28bvgZDCWMsgYAbZnTNa3zOO4JbxBNHTKldTCeA8/s1600/1st+shot+from+door+wm.jpg" height="400" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm so glad you did</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">because here is what the finished room looks like!</span></td></tr>
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Never in a million years,</div>
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would I have thought that</div>
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I would LOVE so much bright color, </div>
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but I DO!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuzQQV1Lw9IqYHew9ixWEydfAOjt_adzXSZZP1W5YBldF9Spbf1nhzZqqFjzBiv5COKQAFATK6LLH2ZFWOgogq6FFYPT-LA7aE8HwhClV0BPGEcKdeEE27sv40ysdEkqPmfE2-O0aHAE/s1600/2nd+pic+of+bed+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTuzQQV1Lw9IqYHew9ixWEydfAOjt_adzXSZZP1W5YBldF9Spbf1nhzZqqFjzBiv5COKQAFATK6LLH2ZFWOgogq6FFYPT-LA7aE8HwhClV0BPGEcKdeEE27sv40ysdEkqPmfE2-O0aHAE/s1600/2nd+pic+of+bed+wm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not only does he have a nifty art station under his loft</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">but he has a Hot Wheels track that runs from his bed</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">to the floor! How fun!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">And COLORFUL!!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkqRLzXCGw0SaNpHgRL3MqgwFT4PD83T2_IlG2Xf1LKs_2iNzndwJOTNPzPhPHcRbhgv8zv1iFUIITFh978kBmO7ZZomALRfiw1hNRYIQemLFEwvXCYl355YWq2RVG9tuISxHnPtEgGQ/s1600/3rd+under+bed+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkqRLzXCGw0SaNpHgRL3MqgwFT4PD83T2_IlG2Xf1LKs_2iNzndwJOTNPzPhPHcRbhgv8zv1iFUIITFh978kBmO7ZZomALRfiw1hNRYIQemLFEwvXCYl355YWq2RVG9tuISxHnPtEgGQ/s1600/3rd+under+bed+wm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here is a close-up of the art station and his latest modeling project.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The art table is adjustable so it lies flat as pictured,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">or it can tilt to various angles for sketching or painting.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We added the cups in the background to hold markers,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">pens, crayons, glue and scissor.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The boxes on the shelf hold assorted art supplies.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">IKEA should totally pay me for this <strike>ad </strike>post!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Which reminds me...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Disclaimer</strong>: <em>This post is not an ad.</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><em>I just wanted to share my son's room with you</em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><em>and am not being compensated for this post.</em></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFEFTW68f0iO1_xV6VKPNVZMVMP5AbH27kJJ2OJL8_8LfAf-R61Q1zA479ZwVOA_4XGJcBC4k2QJgLi_vzUkw8aYGytIvu4Sh5GalkLRrdRFxHCh3T8UpKbkLz51DQmTnc2U95HXqZvI/s1600/4th+underside+of+loft+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFEFTW68f0iO1_xV6VKPNVZMVMP5AbH27kJJ2OJL8_8LfAf-R61Q1zA479ZwVOA_4XGJcBC4k2QJgLi_vzUkw8aYGytIvu4Sh5GalkLRrdRFxHCh3T8UpKbkLz51DQmTnc2U95HXqZvI/s1600/4th+underside+of+loft+wm.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I attached a cool piece of fabric under the mattress so that </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">he would have something inspiring above him as he works.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kCTkKr_7Nz6PgoB8kdAW0mbe5O410h8xArPH_dqiW87ehtUOlJgEBBFzUxe8r6MkHgK5A0ey2e_NyA6gYL9Sw7Zv1jvdRwY5PH5fvSt-ZDyTKhpavpaJvD2A0YAWgzi0PO-xDxgcmvY/s1600/5th+under+loft+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7kCTkKr_7Nz6PgoB8kdAW0mbe5O410h8xArPH_dqiW87ehtUOlJgEBBFzUxe8r6MkHgK5A0ey2e_NyA6gYL9Sw7Zv1jvdRwY5PH5fvSt-ZDyTKhpavpaJvD2A0YAWgzi0PO-xDxgcmvY/s1600/5th+under+loft+wm.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The legs of the art table provide more storage space.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We are using as much wall space as possible </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">to display his artwork and other projects,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">like his science fair board to the left.</span></td></tr>
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Note: Post on science fair coming soon!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSD0pjjbSKxMdjB8mqm6usq4_GmzSoBNvxHB_7pDs2-wGOSdkI7iDknU-kR3okSvfM5Zv9ge23TDfhMHY6i_ZZsc-HgSrB2-6bFBoeTI9hWbV9mAgqO9Fsk05kH-wldyC-ZDnDPqRgbMM/s1600/6th+above+loft+wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSD0pjjbSKxMdjB8mqm6usq4_GmzSoBNvxHB_7pDs2-wGOSdkI7iDknU-kR3okSvfM5Zv9ge23TDfhMHY6i_ZZsc-HgSrB2-6bFBoeTI9hWbV9mAgqO9Fsk05kH-wldyC-ZDnDPqRgbMM/s1600/6th+above+loft+wm.jpg" height="218" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Above the loft, we displayed another piece of his artwork-- </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">some kind of bird. Surprise, surprise.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">On either side of the bird are the paintings </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2010/08/wilburs-10th-birthday-party-activities.html">that his friends made at his 10th bday pARTy</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Now to the desk area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/06/olive-plants-graffiti.html">You may remember that I pretended to know what I was doing </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/06/olive-plants-graffiti.html">with paintable wallpaper and spray paint.</a></span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6WcM1RVRQjqt76vgxDZfATFafLmOHIgGi3hfFv_8H7JiqTfcaXdfXAOrK_9jRZu3ndUeTo8F23EX9QKARHmRbTHVLgs0Rj-Uu2NYmSXkEU_Prxqry5F4WIVa9AjVOOVTWl_Ka1o-nms/s1600/desk+area+before+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6WcM1RVRQjqt76vgxDZfATFafLmOHIgGi3hfFv_8H7JiqTfcaXdfXAOrK_9jRZu3ndUeTo8F23EX9QKARHmRbTHVLgs0Rj-Uu2NYmSXkEU_Prxqry5F4WIVa9AjVOOVTWl_Ka1o-nms/s1600/desk+area+before+1.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Graffiti!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the completed school area!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">As you can see, some of his art supplies spill over into</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">the school area. <a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2010/08/wilburs-10th-birthday-party-fun.html">He came home with lots of </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2010/08/wilburs-10th-birthday-party-fun.html">great art loot after his pARTy.</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">However, there are shelves and cubbies</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">for storing his school supplies, too.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbqrRtnfCP3PUKuip1ozhVSH_u1ch-SjEHG_Rqyl6_oaLyI46U_45nazJIJNlKTQn3RT4sLqbvLoSnsPl5c2iz5gRc4g-jh3e4R0mktFzoCHpSJ0oir5O4m5OuUH7Mvy7utFFd9unFPU/s1600/cabinet+area+before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbqrRtnfCP3PUKuip1ozhVSH_u1ch-SjEHG_Rqyl6_oaLyI46U_45nazJIJNlKTQn3RT4sLqbvLoSnsPl5c2iz5gRc4g-jh3e4R0mktFzoCHpSJ0oir5O4m5OuUH7Mvy7utFFd9unFPU/s1600/cabinet+area+before.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now, remember this corner?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijh40uIh5d8UPrLzdJc7V0eR2Crg6jWJ_G-h0CFFLN-8AtZXYZH0mrqHumrIGvKZnV3It8zY4lqgjmyFC_BMJmdYD4RKgxQ4q7bP43Q8TTeXE5WW2faJqEx57Wk4_e93UF8ezAXrsoaY/s1600/10th+cabinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijh40uIh5d8UPrLzdJc7V0eR2Crg6jWJ_G-h0CFFLN-8AtZXYZH0mrqHumrIGvKZnV3It8zY4lqgjmyFC_BMJmdYD4RKgxQ4q7bP43Q8TTeXE5WW2faJqEx57Wk4_e93UF8ezAXrsoaY/s1600/10th+cabinet.jpg" height="400" width="260" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here it is with an IKEA cabinet.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We use it for toy storage/display</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">and as a place to display awards.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The karate belts on top will have a case</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">one day soon. ;-)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I would be a horrible daughter if I did not add this picture</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">which gives you a good view of the cute curtains</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">my mom made.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">She also made the quilt on his bed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Thanks, Nohnie!</span><br />
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As I mentioned earlier, both boys moved into their own rooms. We completely revamped Ben's room, too; however, there are still finishing touches to be completed. Just to show you how different my guys are, I will give you a sneak peak of his room....</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fx61XkBWr870d7Nho4uerO_vceDvZJnNKiPU5z56_V2VHz2cdzBzg6IuGMdF77ZMx41594wpaFTd-1rXSYIMFiklOtKuMcPlLwhslceAfejRdoMKnb87IBenwWC1eaHW9IRJR855feg/s1600/11th+ben%2527s+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Fx61XkBWr870d7Nho4uerO_vceDvZJnNKiPU5z56_V2VHz2cdzBzg6IuGMdF77ZMx41594wpaFTd-1rXSYIMFiklOtKuMcPlLwhslceAfejRdoMKnb87IBenwWC1eaHW9IRJR855feg/s1600/11th+ben%2527s+room.jpg" height="400" width="307" /></a> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Can we say POLAR OPPOSITE of his brother?!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTilAhuFLTDrDeBpkSF-h1vPGhdnjlXIqwA9-I01BurLT6_yBauhyWhM22OwueJoRg1Iy86gNUe07GYKTRhm3ogdsw4_h6J1BPM2uGVCpZZys_ChWScdQYRnTmQk5X4dW2QG_lHKEyF_0/s1600/12th+dr+who.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTilAhuFLTDrDeBpkSF-h1vPGhdnjlXIqwA9-I01BurLT6_yBauhyWhM22OwueJoRg1Iy86gNUe07GYKTRhm3ogdsw4_h6J1BPM2uGVCpZZys_ChWScdQYRnTmQk5X4dW2QG_lHKEyF_0/s1600/12th+dr+who.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love the color palette he chose: dolphin grey, blue, and black with just </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">a pop of red here and there.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I also LOVE his Dr. Who, Starry Night, TARDIS Exploding</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(not sure what its actual name is) </span><span style="font-size: small;">poster.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I'm not a fan of Dr. Who, like every teen I know.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">However, van Gogh is my favorite artist.</span></td></tr>
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One day soon, hopefully before Ben graduates high school (that's fewer than 3 years!!!!), I will have the curtains done and will post a tour of his room, too.</div>
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Until then....<br />
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-31612202342385228172014-04-22T14:13:00.001-04:002014-04-22T21:49:45.704-04:00It's time for YBC 2014!My Dear Readers,<br />
<br />
Hi! How are you?<br />
<br />
You have probably wondered if I have fallen off the face of the planet. I am still alive and well... doing much better than I was 6 months ago, actually. You can read all about my current lupus progress and chemo treatments over at<a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/"> I'm a Little Lupie</a>. <br />
<br />
I have taken a long, much-needed break from blogging, however, to clear my head. The struggles of being sick have been real and intense. I have had to put my full focus on my health and my family and so the blog has suffered. :(<br />
<br />
I'm back in the blogosphere today, though, to ask a favor of you. <br />
<br />
My sons and their teammates are about to participate in the Youth Birding Competition. This is the next-to-last time they will compete because they are growing up. Only one more competition will be held (we compete every other year) before my Ben graduates!<br />
<br />
Waaaaaaaaaaaah! <br />
<br />
I am trying really hard to hold it together, but look at these cuties!<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_fV-INAqeHy4bXupfCqnaRc1igRK8uky6jBfx26QUIcacvY-0GSQL5RMwRREKadWojUKLhTDA9QEiaJO5G_sU-faUfJTXR-KrumVQwzE2JB8lIH7xs2jV3J7RMFtg-lp5ggaLS1Bk8Q/s1600/early+ybc+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_fV-INAqeHy4bXupfCqnaRc1igRK8uky6jBfx26QUIcacvY-0GSQL5RMwRREKadWojUKLhTDA9QEiaJO5G_sU-faUfJTXR-KrumVQwzE2JB8lIH7xs2jV3J7RMFtg-lp5ggaLS1Bk8Q/s1600/early+ybc+2.jpg" height="320" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Their 2nd year in the competition...<br />
I couldn't find a picture from the 1st year!</td></tr>
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<br />
These guys have grown up together, blessed to be such good friends as well as teammates. Here they are a couple years later.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7KqL79sAjCIkhQW77cHxO4Dc6fi8YWbcDPwNhufJEXXyvfvVwppHZP9EcznA13aFkHT5QbtX2tGlm8WViBGkrAMQHcdq2smByBugiNvKmBncXZd2_x76FuIEqqkmPSqngFBJB6S41yI/s1600/ben+with+buds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7KqL79sAjCIkhQW77cHxO4Dc6fi8YWbcDPwNhufJEXXyvfvVwppHZP9EcznA13aFkHT5QbtX2tGlm8WViBGkrAMQHcdq2smByBugiNvKmBncXZd2_x76FuIEqqkmPSqngFBJB6S41yI/s1600/ben+with+buds.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
This year, they will enter the high school division!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrg8UKEfxkUoRRSvD_Py2HXkJS2ZbER3djtmiUqdL4Btb5E3LNlUWRXPq6oYyiMazvSZUEspPNAtnYJe8u5vIQKH0EH8Wk1tAw0d3v1tu8tRlmK6M7fBThpv7z3iECJjRqi2-tVtWwO5c/s1600/YBC+2014+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrg8UKEfxkUoRRSvD_Py2HXkJS2ZbER3djtmiUqdL4Btb5E3LNlUWRXPq6oYyiMazvSZUEspPNAtnYJe8u5vIQKH0EH8Wk1tAw0d3v1tu8tRlmK6M7fBThpv7z3iECJjRqi2-tVtWwO5c/s1600/YBC+2014+3.jpg" height="248" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a bunch of sillies!<br />
I hope they remember how to use their binoculars properly<br />
before Friday!</td></tr>
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Something they do as part of the competition is fundraise for the <a href="http://www.abcbirds.org/">American Bird Conservancy</a>. This is a conservation effort that we have chosen, as very conservative families, and feel free to support in good conscience. Check them out, and if you feel similarly and would like to support our team's efforts, please consider sponsoring our team.<br />
<br />
You can pledge to donate a fixed amount, as little as $5.<br />
<br />
OR what we really like is a per-bird pledge. It really motivates the guys to work hard. <br />
<br />
In 2012, they identified 105 species. We hope they will identify 120-ish this year (to give you an idea of what your total pledge would come to if done per-bird).<br />
<br />
To sponsor the boys, please email me at homeschooldawn (at) gmail (dot) com. You will need to give me your real name, your pledge amount, and your email address. After the competition, I will let you know how much you will need to send directly to the ABC. You can pay by credit card <a href="https://secure2.convio.net/abcb/site/Donation2;jsessionid=A61ED65034E150F376E4B44B9BF86DA4.app260a?idb=1238699866&DONATION_LEVEL_ID_SELECTED=1&df_id=1426&1426.donation=form1&idb=0">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Thank you so much for following my blog and sharing in and rejoicing over the successes of my kids and their friends over the years. If you can't sponsor the team we'll still love you! ;) <br />
<br />
We also ask that you keep us in your prayers as we travel. Pray for safety, lots of birds and good health. This trek will be very taxing on my lupie self, but you know how we moms will do anything for our youngins, right?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Birds of a Feather, 2014</td></tr>
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Thank you, also, for considering supporting the team and for praying for their efforts.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">Edit: We need pledges in by 9 p.m. (EDT) on Thursday, April 24, 2014, for them to count toward the team's total. They could win prizes for this fundraising effort. However, if you miss our deadline, you may still make a donation to the ABC. Thank you to the reader who brought this to my attention! :)</span><br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/myblogsignature.png.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo myblogsignature.png" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/myblogsignature.png" /></a><br />
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-28416058719750593002014-01-17T18:07:00.000-05:002014-01-17T18:07:38.195-05:00School Pictures 2013-14<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrbv3OZOWAbYVjbeId5CynkJVVrGgy0fGbuXCNwzgvxlza1cTt3HjyqvwJRvIcNi8Wkmt4_iFMniiatOSg_O5TFaB_OL-EA46Z-xU4d_vz-qDAPoOzheguRkhQZ36l9Y1ck6I9ByGosY/s1600/on+bench+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrbv3OZOWAbYVjbeId5CynkJVVrGgy0fGbuXCNwzgvxlza1cTt3HjyqvwJRvIcNi8Wkmt4_iFMniiatOSg_O5TFaB_OL-EA46Z-xU4d_vz-qDAPoOzheguRkhQZ36l9Y1ck6I9ByGosY/s1600/on+bench+1.jpg" height="215" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ben (14) and Brian (13)</div>
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recently had their school pictures</div>
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taken by a local photographer:</div>
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Chloe of</div>
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<a href="http://www.chloevirginiaphotography.zenfolio.com/">Chloe Virginia Photography</a>.</div>
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Someone had fun in front of the camera!</div>
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He is a jokester!</div>
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<em>You put my sonic screwdriver WHERE?!</em></div>
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A Dr. Who Aficionado </div>
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Is he sneezing or laughing?</div>
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Oh, he's laughing!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorZwjudT-0M3S5PTvGbBCXPnY4G3mLB-CgiAGfLokqUP0QjaSPHb3LaN6InE1mqUaXkA0XoBEIMs8rglvIPMheSD4VRLmmHciewzRFeq2ISn6H5kZUxLWZ_Ta_eN7g5Z2MbspnlJn5Vk/s1600/funny+pumpkin+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorZwjudT-0M3S5PTvGbBCXPnY4G3mLB-CgiAGfLokqUP0QjaSPHb3LaN6InE1mqUaXkA0XoBEIMs8rglvIPMheSD4VRLmmHciewzRFeq2ISn6H5kZUxLWZ_Ta_eN7g5Z2MbspnlJn5Vk/s1600/funny+pumpkin+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ben: <em>And now for your viewing pleasure...</em></div>
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<em>the Amazing Growing Pumpkin</em>.</div>
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Brian: <em>Oh, brother</em>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTYSutVvIs3QyR8T70gDmCDFlJZ5N5LZXqgZem-Yeofix05Kmxf__y7exWQ7a8uNA96CWWsxgQ1_FOe73p_7XvujjAW0frTFyjkNCXurWZNMo-AAQ7DvlA1Etjig7l9ZyllxObcjPnso/s1600/funny+pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTYSutVvIs3QyR8T70gDmCDFlJZ5N5LZXqgZem-Yeofix05Kmxf__y7exWQ7a8uNA96CWWsxgQ1_FOe73p_7XvujjAW0frTFyjkNCXurWZNMo-AAQ7DvlA1Etjig7l9ZyllxObcjPnso/s1600/funny+pumpkin.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ben: <em>Dude, that worked!</em></div>
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Brian: <em>Bro, it's a different pumpkin!</em></div>
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The perfect 13-yo shot!</div>
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Love,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/myblogsignature.png.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo myblogsignature.png" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/myblogsignature.png" /></a>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-27307085449046543032014-01-12T22:12:00.000-05:002014-01-12T23:27:25.977-05:00No Bacon MatterA friend of mine posted this picture on facebook.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZML7vwyzhJN85QM202yxrcQp8I9Vqu_LVGl2vjzO4G7gXYMYndA3wEtxkIbUovMSCKjiluElXkSfq1h2BaWTQ21LUbdI6ogNCyYUeCsgiooHEPiEPaGBrN5BXs4_0Hffk2s6XvDALqlI/s1600/bacon+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZML7vwyzhJN85QM202yxrcQp8I9Vqu_LVGl2vjzO4G7gXYMYndA3wEtxkIbUovMSCKjiluElXkSfq1h2BaWTQ21LUbdI6ogNCyYUeCsgiooHEPiEPaGBrN5BXs4_0Hffk2s6XvDALqlI/s320/bacon+picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Since "<a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/2013/11/last-week-was-pretty-rough.html">laughter is the best medicine</a>" is currently our motto, Michael and I began to brainstorm... and laugh... and brainstorm... and cackle... and brainstorm... and guffaw until our sides nearly split.</div>
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The list got a little, ahem, long. </div>
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Too long to post below my friend's status. So we decided to share the laughter here. </div>
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In no particular order, here are our top 100 Bacon Titles! (Yes, we had to whittle the list down.)</div>
<ol>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saving
Private </span></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">B</span></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">acon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">X-Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Desolation of Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Shawshank
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Temple of
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Good,
the Bad, and the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Schindler’s
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Return
of the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Back to
the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Fellowship of the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bacon
Strikes Back</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon Gump</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Silence of the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a
Wonderful Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Green
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A
Clockwork Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">BACON-E</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Citizen
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bacon
King</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To Kill a
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Importance of Being Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Catching
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Singing in
the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Monty
Python and the Holy Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Raiders of
the Lost Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2001: A
Bacon Odyssey</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mr. Bean’s
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon on
the River Kwai</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Baconface</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Maltese Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Man
with One Red Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You’ve Got
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Bacon on a Hot Tin Roof</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How to
Train Your Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gone with
the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Sixth
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon on
34<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> Street</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A
Beautiful Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dial B for
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon-Hur</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bacon
of Oz</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Princess Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bourne
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Series
of Bacon Events</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The King’s
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Groundhog
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon of
the Caribbean</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Harry
Potter and the Deathly Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Black
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon
University</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon and the
Beast</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon
Story</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Return
of the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">No Bacon
for Old Men</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon in
Love</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Bacon
and I</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dances
with Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Driving
Miss Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Chariots
of Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A
Christmas Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My Fair
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">West Side
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">All the
King’s Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How Green
Was My Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You Can’t
Take Bacon with You</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Free Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pretty
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Runaway
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon with
the Enemy</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Eat,
Bacon, Love</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mona Lisa
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The DaVinci
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon
Brokovich</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My Best
Friend’s Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
Pelican Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Steel
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My Big Fat
Greek Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Catch
Bacon if You Can</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon 13</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Independence
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Men in
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Joe Verses
the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon and
Hootch</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Top Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Risky
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Kung Fu
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">War of the
Bacons</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon on
the 4<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> of July</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cowboys
and Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Clear and
Present Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Close
Encounters of the Bacon Kind</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bacon on a
Wire</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Charlie’s
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lethal
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dances
with Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Interview
with a Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Field of
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Robin
Hood: Prince of Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Lion,
the Witch and the Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">E.B.: The Extra
Bacon</span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
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</div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hope you laughed as much as we did! If so, what's your favorite? Do you have any titles we didn't include?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Love,</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
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<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-75284326984816952442013-12-31T12:42:00.001-05:002013-12-31T12:45:35.670-05:00My New Year's ResolutionI was starting to feel a tad bit normal again and to plan out my resolutions for the new year when my doctor upped my chemo dosage. <br />
<br />
That threw a big ol' wrench in the works. Now I have to adjust to the new level of meds, and as I type this, I have no idea how I will respond to a higher dosage. <br />
<br />
Will it make me feel much worse?<br />
<br />
Will my Friday and Saturday recovery turn into a Friday-Saturday-Sunday recovery. Or even extend into Monday?<br />
<br />
I've been working myself so hard to get 6 days of work done in 4 for the past few months. I'm exhausted. I'm frazzled. I'm weak. I don't think I can push myself any harder.<br />
<br />
So, I'm giving myself a break and will not be writing out a list of resolutions as 2013 ends. Grace will be the theme of 2014.<br />
<br />
The grace to say, "I'm sick." and that be okay.<br />
<br />
The grace to do as much as I can when I can do it and prop up my swollen feet when that is needed instead.<br />
<br />
The grace to do school from bed, to eat sandwiches for dinner, to take naps.<br />
<br />
The grace not to constantly consider if I should be on this approach to wellness or be on that treatment plan and to filter out unsolicited advice.<br />
<br />
The grace to stay off Pinterest, to limit the blogs, and to do what is necessary to keep a realistic perspective.<br />
<br />
The grace to ask for help, to delegate, to receive assistance.<br />
<br />
The grace to stop worrying, to stop overthinking everything, to stop trying to be perfect.<br />
<br />
The grace not to plan a fancy dinner party when I can sit at Jesus's feet instead because He is the only one who possesses the grace I need and He freely gives it to those who ask.<br />
<br />
I resolve to continually <a href="http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/matthew/7.html">ask, seek and knock</a>.<br />
<br />
Grace and peace in the new year,<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/myblogsignature.png.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo myblogsignature.png" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/myblogsignature.png" /></a>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-9487694169920779302013-12-03T01:05:00.000-05:002013-12-03T01:33:18.336-05:00Oopsie JoesSo lately I've had trouble using my brain.<br />
<br />
I don't know if it's that I turned 40 last April or if it's because <a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/">I'm on chemo for lupus</a> or if it's that I'm really in the early stages of Alzheimer's. <br />
<br />
Some days I think it might be all three.<br />
<br />
But I have been saying and doing weird things lately. Like the other night, I told Michael his clean socks were at the store. I meant to say<em> in the drier. </em>That makes sense. All our best clothes are in the drier. But I had been thinking about going to the grocery store and so <em>store</em> is what came out.<br />
<br />
Well, I actually made it to the store yesterday. Sadly, his socks weren't there. I, however, was having a particularly good day, and while the boys were at art class, I reintroduced myself to my long-lost friend, Kroger.<br />
<br />
I walked in uber-prepared. I had a grocery list in hand and even had rebate checks to redeem. As I filled my buggy with everything I needed for the week, I checked that list carefully. Carefully! When the last item was marked off, I checked out (my total was only $21 thanks to those rebates!), drove home, and got it all put away while the boys were still at art class. I even had time to hop online and buy Michael's Christmas present during the Cyber Monday sales.<br />
<br />
Homeschool Dawn was back in the saddle, people. <br />
<br />
Yee Haw!<br />
<br />
Come dinner time, I grabbed the pack of ground beef bought earlier in the day and threw it in the skillet without a second thought. Chili mac was the plan. <br />
<br />
But then I remembered something crucial: chili mac requires <em>mac</em> which takes longer to cook than beef. Why had I not started boiling the macaroni already?<br />
<br />
I ran (okay, you got me) hobbled to the pantry and dug... and dug... and dug. I pulled every.single.box, container, bag, what-have-you off the shelves, and there was not a scrap of macaroni to be found.<br />
<br />
Grumble, grumble, grrrrrr!<br />
<br />
I was NOT going back to the store because that "organized" trip may have only cost $21 dollars but it <a href="http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/">used up 74 whole spoons</a>. And I only get about 50 of those per day. Michael was busy helping Ben understand factoring the something-something when the whatcha-ma-digger is a doohickey. I was not interrupting that magic moment. So I would find a way to fix the problem that did not involve disrupting Algebra class or taking another trip to the store.<br />
<br />
(Although maybe if I had made the 2nd trip, I would have found Michael's socks! They weren't in the drier, either.)<br />
<br />
I rummaged through the pantry again and found a package of Spanish rice. I was going to cook that up and then mix it with the beef, add in some dehydrated onions and cheese and bake it up... something I used to do all.the.time. when M and I were first married. <br />
<br />
Then I discovered that pack of rice had been in the pantry for nearly a decade.<br />
<br />
Great, I couldn't even whip up a newly-wed concoction. <br />
<br />
The ground beef was getting brown, so I had to think. Thnk. Think. Think.<br />
<br />
Tomato sauce! I had a can right there on the counter because I was going to use it in the chili mac. <br />
<br />
Now, for some reason, in my mind, tomato sauce equals sloppy joes. But the thing is... I have never made homemade sloppy joes. EVER! As I stood at the electric can opener, ready to swirl open that garlic-y tomato goodness, I came to my senses as I envisioned a runny mess. How I would I get that sauce to thicken?<br />
<br />
Soggy buns. Ick.<br />
<br />
I was about to lose hope, freeze the cooked ground beef, and pull out the peanut butter and bread, when the distant dinner bell from a ranch in Oklahoma signaled help was on its way.<br />
<br />
The Pioneer Woman!<br />
<br />
If anybody would know how to make homemade sloppy joes and help me rescue my meal, it would be P-Dub.<br />
<br />
Sure enough, <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/04/sloppy-joes/">she had a recipe for sloppies</a>, and it did not call for tomato sauce. (Duh) It called for ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, tomato paste (ah-ha, thick, not runny) and chopped veggies. However, at this point, there was no way I was going to chop onions and celery and what-have-you.<br />
<br />
Sorry, PW, nothing personal. Usually, I am all about your deliciously fresh, from-scratch, chocked-full-of-goodness recipes. But my spoons were completely gone and at that moment I couldn't have chopped butter.<br />
<br />
The ketchup and brown sugar in her "cast of characters" got me to thinking, though. I make a homemade BBQ sauce that is to die for (or so I've been told) and ketchup and brown sugar are two of the base ingredients. I ran to the kitchen (okay, you got me again... still hobbling) and whipped up my sauce. Then I just started adding in whatever spices I thought would work and make it less BBQ-y and more sloppy joe-ish.<br />
<br />
I poured the sauce over the browned, strained beef and set it to simmer. I wanted the sauce to get good and warm, but also just about that time, Brian entered the kitchen to let me know he finally knew the capital of Maryland. <br />
<br />
We've been working on that for quite awhile so I left the stove to listen to his recitation. It was quite good!<br />
<br />
Good job, Bruster. Good job!<br />
<br />
When I returned to the kitchen, the sloppy joe meat was starting to look a bit, ahem, Cajun. I quickly turned off the eye. Desperate to feed my family something, I scraped up that blackened, BBQ-turned-who-knows-what-sauced beef and plated up the Joes.<br />
<br />
Miracle of all miracles, that stuff was good! Everyone asked me to make it again next week. <br />
<br />
And make it I will... if I can remember exactly what I did.<br />
<br />
Here is my best attempt at a recipe. Maybe I'll insert pictures another day so you can pin it. <br />
<br />
But probably not.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step One</span>: Carefully make a grocery list for chili mac but forget to buy the macaroni.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Two</span>: Brown ground beef. When it's half-way through cooking, realize you don't have the noodles and need to change your meal plan.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Three: </span><span style="font-size: small;">Desperately try to recreate some weird casserole you concocted when you were in your early twenties and thought cookbooks were for losers. Suddenly realize you seriously need to clean out your pantry.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Four</span>: Read the Pioneer Woman blog and hope she can save you. Realize that you are not as good as she is and so you can only pull off half her recipe. Go throw a bunch of dehydrated onions on the meat as it finishes browning because you don't have time or available spoons to chop the real ones.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Five</span>: Mix together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, a BIG squirt of yellow mustard, a tiny dash of ground red pepper, and a couple big dashes of chili powder. Throw in various other spices for good measure. It doesn't really matter what. Just pick stuff.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Six</span> (This is very, very important to the overall success of the meal): Leave your meat and sauce cooking on low heat for about 10 minutes too long. It will start to blacken underneath and stick to the pan.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Step Seven</span>: Scrape that stuff up out of the pan and get some of that blackened goodness in there before plating.<br />
<br />
Um-yum! <br />
<br />
We call them<em> Ooopsie Joes</em>. My family says you should try them sometime. <br />
<br />
Really.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Chemo Brain<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/myblogsignature.png.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo myblogsignature.png" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/myblogsignature.png" /></a>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-20302512304999659572013-11-26T17:50:00.001-05:002013-11-27T00:35:41.650-05:00Inscribed on My Heart<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="text"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I can do all things through Christ who
strengthens me.</span> </i></span><span class="text"><span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Phil 4:13<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/b7fb895c-bc1e-48e8-bb03-08d3de66ca51.jpg.html" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo b7fb895c-bc1e-48e8-bb03-08d3de66ca51.jpg" border="0" height="201" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/b7fb895c-bc1e-48e8-bb03-08d3de66ca51.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Surprise Gift</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span></span><br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Twenty years ago, soon after Michael’s and my
engagement, I received a phone call from my soon-to-be mother-in-law. She was
cooking up a surprise for us, a wedding gift which she hoped would become a
family heirloom, and she needed to know if a particular Bible verse was
significant to us, to our relationship at the time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Immediately, I knew the answer I wanted to give but
hesitated to share. I had one of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">those </i>verses
in mind. You know, one of the verses that gets so overused that it becomes a
Christian <span class="text"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-no-proof: yes;">cliché</span></span>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Phil 4:13. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even Oprah claims it as her “life verse.” How was
I supposed to sound super spiritual and impress my future MIL with a verse
embroidered on thousands of throw pillows across America?<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nonetheless, no matter how “overused” it was, I
wanted that verse to be the one on our family heirloom. Feeling like I had just
picked “C” on a multiple choice exam, I hesitantly told MIL what I wanted. To
make sure she understood just how deep and, more importantly, not-cheesy I
intended my selection to be, I qualified my answer by explaining the
significance of the context.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span><span class="text"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><sup><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></sup></i></span><span class="text"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I know how to be abased, and I
know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full
and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.</span> </i></span><span class="text"><span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Phil 4:12<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I quoted verse 12 and explained things about the
Apostle Paul’s life that I’m certain she already knew. Then I explained how
Michael and I wanted a marriage built on the rock who is Jesus Christ. We knew
there were good times to come as well as difficult ones. As man and wife, we
were sure to experience seasons of being abound and times of being abased. We
were entering married life confidently, not because we believed in ourselves or
imagined life would be perfectly rosy, but because we were confident in Christ
and that come-what-may He would be our strength.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even though I was probably trying, in part at
least, to impress my future MIL with my Biblical prowess, I really did mean what
I had said. But, as much as I really and truly believed, I didn’t quite
understand what I was saying… not as fully I thought I did at the time.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For nearly twenty years, Michael and I have been
constantly learning more on the subject....</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Continue reading "Inscribed on My Heart" at my new blog,<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8403074729882196666#editor/target=post;postID=4332463126756830646;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=0;src=postname"> I'm a Little Lupie</a>.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
</div>
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/6009007/?claim=ssxus56hunu">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/myblogsignature.png.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo myblogsignature.png" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/myblogsignature.png" /></a>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-36754990248255186082013-11-16T14:14:00.000-05:002013-11-16T14:14:17.422-05:00MARCO...After a rather difficult month or two of starting and then stopping and then starting chemo, I was rather blessed to get an inner-ear infection.<br />
<br />
Yes, you read that correctly. BLESSED!<br />
<br />
Because I developed infection, the immunosuppressive therapy (chemo) had to halt which allowed me to take the boys on a field trip to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
We were greeted in the Great Hall<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
by Tyrannosaurus Rex.</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/ccd6353a-3496-4271-a055-5e6ade360691.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a> <a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/905bc519-8fc1-4596-85d7-37398946084f.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 905bc519-8fc1-4596-85d7-37398946084f.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/905bc519-8fc1-4596-85d7-37398946084f.jpg" /></a></div>
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</div>
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Ben and Brian immediately found a good hiding spot!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/48e232f8-e34c-467a-b8fb-6220300a5b08.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 48e232f8-e34c-467a-b8fb-6220300a5b08.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/48e232f8-e34c-467a-b8fb-6220300a5b08.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<br />
Um, just keeping it real.<br />
<br />
We do have two teenagers in the house now. ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/fc22b84a-bb63-437a-b484-a7fd56c1d8c1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo fc22b84a-bb63-437a-b484-a7fd56c1d8c1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/fc22b84a-bb63-437a-b484-a7fd56c1d8c1.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
To be fair, though,<br />
Brian is not the<em> only</em> one who can be silly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/ddfbaed6-c04e-4dd3-918d-69be1143f294.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ddfbaed6-c04e-4dd3-918d-69be1143f294.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/ddfbaed6-c04e-4dd3-918d-69be1143f294.jpg" /></a>
<br />
Real cool, Brontosaurus Ben.<br />
Reeeal Cool. ;-)<br />
<br />
After fighting off the dinos, <br />
the boys, Nohnie, and Papaw,<br />
who graciously agreed to be our chauffer <br />
since I am not able to drive long distances right now,<br />
enjoyed an IMAX movie with images from the Hubble<br />
while I enjoyed some chat time with a friend.<br />
<br />
Then we ate a FAB lunch at the cafeteria.<br />
During our lunch break, something VERY interesting happened.<br />
<br />
Before you scroll down any farther,<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">BE WARNED!</span><br />
<br />
You may find the next image a bit disturbing<br />
as it may cause you to question<br />
everything you have ever believed to be true.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">EV-ER-Y-THANG!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Proceed with caution!!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/063840ec-cb3f-4cbb-a5d4-132acd91b23d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 063840ec-cb3f-4cbb-a5d4-132acd91b23d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/063840ec-cb3f-4cbb-a5d4-132acd91b23d.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
It's scarier than the T-Rex, I know.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">HOMESCHOOLERS</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">being</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(GASP)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;">SOCIALIZED!</span><br />
<br />
It defies all logic; however,<br />
there you have it.<br />
<br />
Three boys, <span style="font-size: large;">not all of them related to each other</span>,<br />
sitting in<span style="font-size: large;"> public</span>,<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">enjoying</span> each others' <span style="font-size: large;">company</span>,<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">not practicing spelling words</span>.<br />
<br />
I hope it didn't cause any coronary episodes out there.<br />
<br />
Okay, thank you for indulging my sarcastic side.<br />
Now let's get back to the museum. :-)<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/34af26fd-0b53-457d-bc34-002786ca5887.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 34af26fd-0b53-457d-bc34-002786ca5887.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/34af26fd-0b53-457d-bc34-002786ca5887.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
After lunch, we made our way to the hands-on exhibit<br />
and got all science-y.<br />
<br />
Well, the boys and Papaw did.<br />
<br />
I kept my distance, wore a germ mask<br />
and bathed in hand sanitizer.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/570ff7da-fee6-49b7-babd-0fa3eb20ef52.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 570ff7da-fee6-49b7-babd-0fa3eb20ef52.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/570ff7da-fee6-49b7-babd-0fa3eb20ef52.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
They enjoyed "playing around" with equipment<br />
which taught them about optics,<br />
sound waves, the weather, and more.<br />
<br />
Brian enjoyed being the weatherman.<br />
He's pointing to Atlanta while standing in front of the green screen.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/518dcc6c-aae2-4709-9d41-8c9d9273f183.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 518dcc6c-aae2-4709-9d41-8c9d9273f183.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/518dcc6c-aae2-4709-9d41-8c9d9273f183.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We found some more dinosaurs,<br />
and even Papaw decided to get a little goofy.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You're welcome, Papaw.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You. are. welcome.</span><br />
<br />
We also went through a wonderful exhibit on the wildlife of Georgia.<br />
Of course, I was too busy identifying the birds on display<br />
to take any pictures.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/cd5076d2-5e8b-4752-82aa-40c2edbe8f30.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo cd5076d2-5e8b-4752-82aa-40c2edbe8f30.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/cd5076d2-5e8b-4752-82aa-40c2edbe8f30.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Then we made our way to the special exhibit on Marco Polo<br />
where we followed his journey from Venice,<br />
through the Middle East, and on to China.<br />
<br />
Side Note: Do those of you who knew Michael when he was a teen agree that Ben looks<br />
just like him at that age!? I see the young man I met 25 years ago in this particular pose.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/96977d87-9ce6-4bd8-a405-741227b7b713.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 96977d87-9ce6-4bd8-a405-741227b7b713.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/96977d87-9ce6-4bd8-a405-741227b7b713.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The editors in the family found a few, ahem, mistakes<br />
along the way.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/c337780a-cb68-4ad7-aa3c-d17b00a6ec9c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo c337780a-cb68-4ad7-aa3c-d17b00a6ec9c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/c337780a-cb68-4ad7-aa3c-d17b00a6ec9c.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Can you find the mistake, too?<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/35a920cc-6482-4c9f-b853-ed9feab70bc0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 35a920cc-6482-4c9f-b853-ed9feab70bc0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/35a920cc-6482-4c9f-b853-ed9feab70bc0.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Okay, so now I'm totally worried that there are glaring errors in this post<br />
and I'm a total hypocrite.<br />
<br />
All in fun, fellow editors, all. in. fun.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/6261ab92-82f5-48d1-9b97-7c5e230687fb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 6261ab92-82f5-48d1-9b97-7c5e230687fb.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/6261ab92-82f5-48d1-9b97-7c5e230687fb.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Then we found a way to work in Dr. Who<br />
because, well, that stereotype about homeschoolers<br />
just may be true.<br />
<br />
Sigh.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/18a23c7b-3569-41db-b978-77976ebf5f6d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 18a23c7b-3569-41db-b978-77976ebf5f6d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/18a23c7b-3569-41db-b978-77976ebf5f6d.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Then everyone learned a valuable lesson about only making silly faces for the camera.<br />
<br />
Mom will NOT be deterred from her blogging plans.<br />
<br />
The face you offer the camera IS the one that will be published <br />
for the whole world to see.<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Well, at least the 27 people who still read this blog.)</span><br />
<br />
Be warned, teenagers.<br />
<br />
Be warned. ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/45c960c0-557e-4564-8108-ce81d44aab3d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 45c960c0-557e-4564-8108-ce81d44aab3d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/45c960c0-557e-4564-8108-ce81d44aab3d.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We did manage to get one nice shot with Nohnie before leaving.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/42b98539-df22-4441-bc69-99951b625823.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 42b98539-df22-4441-bc69-99951b625823.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/42b98539-df22-4441-bc69-99951b625823.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br />
We also caught up with Ben's new BFF, Marco, who had made his way back home to Venice.<br />
<br />
<div align="left">
...POLO!</div>
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</div>
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-45930699769264208772013-11-01T18:00:00.001-04:002013-11-01T19:32:09.146-04:00My Favorite HymnsOne of my favorite bloggers, Kellie at <a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/">Blue House Academy</a>, just wrapped up one of my favorite blog series. Through October, she shared <em>31 Hymns I</em> (well, SHE, but I'm quoting here) <em>Love</em>. It was wonderful to have a daily reminder to sing worship to God hit my inbox each morning. Thanks, Kellie!<br />
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She wrapped up the series by asking her readers to share their favorites. Choosing 10 that were not already on her list was quite a task. We did not have to pick an original list, but I'm funny like that. Not wanting to copy and paste her work, I have expanded the challenge a bit. ;-)<br />
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Here are the hymns she included in her series that would make my ultimate top 10 list. You should click over to listen to the great musical arrangements she included in many of her posts.<br />
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<ol>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-12-fairest-lord-jesus.html">Fairest Lord Jesus</a>
</li>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-22-marvelous-grace-of-our-loving.html">Marvelous Grace of Our Loving Lord</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-20-o-deep-deep-love-of-jesus.html">O, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-16-great-is-thy-faithfulness.html">Great Is Thy Faithfulness</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-27-come-thou-fount-of-every-blessing.html">Come Thou Fount</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bluehouseacademy.blogspot.com/2013/10/day-31-mighty-fortress-is-our-god.html">A Mighty Fortress Is Our God</a> </li>
</ol>
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Now, here are the hymns that make my official (not on Kellie's list) top 10. (See how sneaky I am about narrowing down a really, really long list!):</div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">My Jesus, I Love Thee</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Vq2xenJkl1M" width="420"></iframe>
<li>
<span style="font-size: large;">When I Survey the Wondrous Cross</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6Gwtj3uKXAs" style="height: 116px; width: 449px;" width="560"></iframe>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus, Lover of My Soul</span> (I couldn't find a video I liked for this one. How did you find all that great music, Kellie?!)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Not What My Hands Have Done</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/h-VbUQdJy0Y" style="height: 189px; width: 454px;" width="560"></iframe>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Stricken, Smitten and Afflicted</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ogcr3Co1nqU" style="height: 221px; width: 455px;" width="560"></iframe>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/mZsSRaaHKGA" style="height: 238px; width: 455px;" width="560"></iframe>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/RcNLvufzbz0" style="height: 235px; width: 420px;" width="560"></iframe>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Good Christian Men Rejoice</span> (I had to get ONE Christmas hymn on the list!)
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/TX6hsNbKyTU" width="420"></iframe>
</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">His Eye Is on the Sparrow</span> (Hey, you knew I would work birds into this somehow! This is a favorite because it is one the boys and I have always enjoyed singing together, particularly when we go bird watching.)
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0615qcc9EEc" style="height: 233px; width: 432px;" width="560"></iframe>
</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Amazing Grace</span></li>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HsCp5LG_zNE" style="height: 280px; width: 431px;" width="560"></iframe>
</ol>
Thanks for a great month of hymns, Kellie!
I hope my readers enjoy my choices as much as I enjoyed yours.
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Blessings,
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-8755546689703723082013-10-18T00:13:00.001-04:002013-10-18T00:13:36.954-04:00This is a test...There is no need to be alarmed. I'm not really posting anything. This is merely a test to see if my cool new signature works.<br />
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Beeeeeeep.<br />
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homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-66039651883212966682013-09-19T19:25:00.001-04:002013-09-19T19:25:13.385-04:00That's So Dawn: The Gas PumpSince laughter <em>is</em> the best medicine, I have decided to revive an old segment here at Olive Plants: <em>That's So Dawn</em>. If you're new here, <em>TSD</em> posts are ones in which I have a good laugh at myself. I hope you will, too.<br />
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Today while Ben and Brian were at a yearbook staff meeting (yes, homeschoolers have those), I decided to run some errands. Because my low gas warning had dinged on the way to the meeting, the gas pump was one of my stops. It reminded me of a classic <em>TSD</em> moment....<br />
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About 7 years ago I was travelling through Alabama to Tennessee to visit my parents. It was just me and my two little boys. I pulled over for gas, and for the first time in my gas-pumping experience, I was asked to enter the zip code.<br />
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A pang of anxiety hit me as I had no clue what the zip code was for Jasper, Alabama. I stood there and stared at the screen like a deer in headlights for what had to be 3 or 4 v-e-r-y---l-o-n-g minutes.<br />
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What to do? What to do?<br />
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Finally, I had the good sense to go ask the attendant.<br />
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Me: <em>Um, excuse me. What is the zip code here.</em><br />
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Attendant: <em>3-5-5-0-3</em><br />
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Me: <em>Thank you!</em><br />
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Back at the pump I punched in 3-5-5-0-3.<br />
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<span style="color: red;">INVALID ENTRY</span><br />
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3-5-5-0-3<br />
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<span style="color: red;">INVALID ENTRY</span><br />
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3-5-5-0-3<br />
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<span style="color: red;">INVALID ENTRY</span><br />
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I couldn't understand why the attendant had given me the wrong zip code. I mean, what was his problem? Didn't he even know his own zip code?<br />
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Me: <em>Excuse me. That zip code didn't work.</em><br />
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Attendant: <em>Um, what?</em><br />
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Me: <em>The zip code. The zip code you gave me didn't work. It says, "<strong>invalid entry</strong>."</em><br />
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Attendant: <em>Um, ma'am, that's not asking for the zip code <strong>here</strong>. It wants <strong>YOUR</strong> zip code. It's a security measure.</em><br />
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Me: *air-headed giggle* Oh, thank you.<br />
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If I lose my hair to<a href="http://www.imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/"> methotrexate</a>, I'm gonna buy a blonde wig. It seems blonde should be my color.<br />
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Laughing at myself,<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span><br />
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-23933567043209735222013-09-19T00:17:00.001-04:002013-09-19T00:17:19.744-04:00Auto-immune Update<div style="background-color: #fcf6fc; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br />Last week was Invisible Illness Awareness Week. I had a tough week because of my invisible illness, Lupus, and didn't get this post up in time. Nonetheless, I want to take advantage of a meme going around to raise awareness so that I can update you all on my status.</div>
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<strong style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">30 Things About My Invisible Illness You May Not Know</strong></div>
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1. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The illness I live with is:</span> My "probably lupus" status has been upgraded to definitely SLE. I also have RLS and migraines.</div>
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2. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">I was diagnosed with it in the year:</span> 2012</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcf6fc; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px;">3. </span><span style="background-color: #fcf6fc; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">But I had symptoms since:</span><span style="background-color: #fcf6fc; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> well...my answer has changed since I was diagnosed. I originally said they started when I was 19 (in 1992) but as I have read about others' experiences with Lupus, I have come to realize that I really experienced the first symptoms at about 8 years old. </span><br />
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4. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make is</span>: to limit the number of plates I keep spinning each day. That's hard because my illness(es) wax and wane. When I'm feeling well, I have the energy to keep many plates spinning. However, when I feel poorly, whatever plates are up are bound to come crashing down. The mess is easier to clean up if I keep it simple to start with.</div>
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5. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Most people assume:</span> that I feel so bad all the time because I'm overweight. If I could just get my act together, get off the couch, and shed a few pounds, I would be as good as new. I wish it were that simple. However, let me clarify that "most people" are not those in my inner circle: my church family, homeschooling homies, and life-long friends. They have shown an outpouring of love and support which overwhelms me.</div>
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6. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The hardest part about mornings are:</span> EVERYTHING. Even on good days, I wake up feeling like gongs are going off inside my head. Most days I am very stiff and sore for about an hour after waking and look like a new-born calf when I walk. I have to factor in lots of wake-up time when deciding on what time to set my alarm the night before.</div>
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7. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">My favorite medical TV show is:</span> ??? I'm not much of a t.v. watcher, and medical shows have always been my least favorite. Sorry. </div>
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8. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">A gadget I couldn’t live without is:</span> my heating pad. My muscles cramp and ache severely in the evenings, and I frequently chill... need I say more? :)</div>
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9. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The hardest part about nights are:</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> twitchy legs. I have Restless Leg Syndrome, too, and my legs start dancing and kicking as if they have a mind of their own around 8 p.m. each night. That causes huge sleep problems. </span></div>
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10. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Each day I take:</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> 9 prescriptions and a slew of vitamins/supplements. I just began immunosuppressive therapy and am taking a med used in chemo. The possible side effects, like hair loss, have me a bit on edge. (no comments please)</span> </div>
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11. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Regarding alternative treatments I</span>: ... sigh. This is a sore spot for reasons I don't need to air on the internet. My only comment is that deciding on a course of treatment is a difficult and personal matter that I truly doubt anyone takes lightly. Each patient should be free to follow her conscience whether she leans toward alternative or "allopathic" medicine.</div>
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12. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">If I had to choose between an invisible illness or visible I would choose</span>: neither. Both stink in their own ways. That's like choosing between the proverbial rock and hard place. ;) </div>
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13. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Regarding working and career:</span><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> My career is home educating my kids and teaching homeschool classes. There <i>are</i> days I feel like throwing in the towel. I just can't do it as well as I want. Yet, in those times, it seems I always get a big reminder about how important my kids are... how they will be grown and starting families of their own before I know what has happened... how much other homeschoolers appreciate me... or a million other wonderfully important things. It makes the sacrifices and struggles worth it. I'm learning to take it one-day-at-a-time because long-term decision making is not healthy for the chronically ill.</span> As God wills....</div>
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14. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">People would be surprised to know:</span> I have a real and on-going struggle with anxiety. It's linked to my condition. Sometimes I feel like my head is about to explode from the nervous stimulation within my body and I just can't process any input or stress. I have to go into my hiding place and breathe, pray, read the Bible, and just "be" until the battle within ceases.</div>
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15. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The hardest thing to accept about my new reality has been:</span> there is no normal. Some days I feel great... and it shows. Some days I feel lousy... and it shows. I'm learning to be real and let people know exactly how I feel-- not in a grumpy,<i> leave-me-alone</i> sort of way, but also not in the Southern polite, "I'm just fine, honey, how are y'all?"-way either. I'm learning it's okay to say, "Thanks for asking. I am having a tough day and would really appreciate your prayers." I'm also learning to say, "Hey, I'm doing great today. Thanks! Praise be to God!" without feeling the need to keep up an all-too-happy appearance all the time out of fear of how I am perceived. In other words, I refuse to be inhibited by the invisible illness stigma.</div>
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16. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Something I never thought I could do with my illness that I did was:</span> get a diagnosis! It took me nearly 20 years of actively seeking one. I have a great team of doctors now and am so thankful!</div>
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17. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The commercials about my illness</span>: don't exist. Not for lupus, at least. Now, I know you've seen the RLS one and laughed. ;) The condition is NOT as funny as those commercials. :)</div>
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18. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Something I really miss doing since I was diagnosed is</span>: nothing. My life didn't change drastically because of my diagnosis. I had lived with the symptoms of my condition for so long and had suffered so much that my life has actually been much better since diagnosis.</div>
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19. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">It was really hard to have to give up</span>: the cello. I love to play but it hurts my hands so badly. </div>
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20. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">A new hobby I have taken up since my diagnosis is</span>: organizing meds. Lol! Seriously, I haven't taken up a new hobby, but my favorite hobby of bird watching is really helpful. It keeps me moving just enough to make me feel stronger without bringing on debilitating pain later. Taking in fresh air helps lift my spirits and lower anxiety. It lets me be in a quiet, introverted space which clears my mind, and observing the creation reminds me of how great the Creator is. I need daily reminders that God is greater than my condition and sovereign over all things, including lupus. </div>
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21. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">If I could have one day of feeling normal again I would</span>: I'm not sure. I think I have struggled for so long that I don't know or remember what "normal" is. I think I would just relish whatever "normal" feels like and be incredibly thankful not to have to feel chronically ill for that one precious day. I do look forward to the day that Jesus Christ "<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">will transform (my) lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself." (Phil 3:21)</span></div>
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22. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">My illness has taught me</span>: that I am not God. I struggle to forgive people who don't understand my condition. Yet, God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. If I could snap my fingers and make my suffering go away, I would do it in a heartbeat. Yet, Christ humbled himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross. He secured the salvation of all Christians through suffering. He is my sympathetic High priest, and I encourage you to taste and see that he is good. (John 3:16, Phil 2:8, Heb 4:14-16, and Ps 34:8)</div>
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23. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Want to know a secret? One thing people say that gets under my skin is</span>: (sorry to say this, but...) giving advice or comparing my illness to their less serious conditions. Again, this only makes me keenly aware of how much greater the Lord is than I am. He endured suffering far worse than mine, and yet He is sympathetic and caring toward me in my condition. May He grant me much grace to be gracious.</div>
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24. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">But I love it when people</span>: understand the wild swings that accompany my illness and understand when I'm not at my best that it isn't for show or sympathy. Those of us with invisible illness really do struggle with worry that we're not being taken seriously or that we seem like hypochondriacs or that we're using our illness as an excuse. When you just get it, we just love you!</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12px;">25. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">My favorite motto, scripture, quote that gets me through tough times is</span>:</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-NIV-29032" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But he said to me, <span class="woj">“My grace<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29032P" title="See cross-reference P">P</a>)"></span> is sufficient for you, for my power<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29032Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></span> is made perfect in weakness.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29032R" title="See cross-reference R">R</a>)"></span>”<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29032S" title="See cross-reference S">S</a>)"></span></span> Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text 2Cor-12-10" id="en-NIV-29033" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29033T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)"></span> in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29033U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></span> in persecutions,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29033V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)"></span> in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Cor 12:9-10</span></span></div>
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26. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">When someone is diagnosed I’d like to tell them</span>: to find rest in God. To do what pleases Him and not what you think you <i>have</i> to do. Don't wallow in self pity but also don't keep up appearances. This life is not about the pursuit of happiness, the accumulation of stuff or living up to artificial standards imposed on us by others. This life is about enjoying and glorifying God, whatever our personal circumstances, and if we will seek 1st His Kingdom and His righteousness, all other things will be added unto us-- including the grace to live with chronic illness. (Matt 6:33)</div>
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27. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">Something that has surprised me about living with an illness is</span>: living with it has gotten so much easier since my diagnosis. It helps SO much to be able to put a name to it other than "mysterious pain syndrome." My doctors treat me completely differently than they did before. When I go in with a problem... they are ON IT! No more tests or lectures... just help. It is amazing!</div>
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28. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The nicest thing someone did for me when I wasn’t feeling well was</span>: lots of things, but I have to give my husband the biggest props here. My illness affects his life as much as it does mine, and he is truly living out "in sickness and in health." I'm a spoonie and he's my dish. I'm glad he ran away with me, even if the running has become hobbling. <br />
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29. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">I’m involved with <a href="http://www.invisibleillness.com/" style="color: #7f4994; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Invisible Illness Week </a>because</span>: I decided to post this because it has really helped me to read others' experiences. I think that everyone who takes some time to share his/her story is actively helping those who are in the same chronically ill boat. My love and prayers are with those of you who suffer silently.<br />
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I also want to let you know about my new blog where I will be updating my friends and prayer partners on my condition: <a href="http://imalittlelupie.blogspot.com/">I'm a Little Lupie</a>.<br />
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30. <span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">The fact that you read this list makes me feel</span>: thankful to have a friend like you, one who takes time to listen and to understand. Thank you!</div>
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Blessings,</div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span></div>
homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-90444777955325798922013-08-20T15:47:00.000-04:002013-08-20T15:47:24.229-04:00A Last-minute, Impromtu Vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOErtn5RGIVKI83s7TIZ-FQWHt5UZnqjrAsb6A_WhYPu7m5ZOzgFz_tfLMVI6xIsmMi89omvzblIyoC1D4VR8ad4pIq2ARAcXftREpKb2A24IhiEhA2gTaBkog5gbjOPQHaVLTufuinU/s1600/kville+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOErtn5RGIVKI83s7TIZ-FQWHt5UZnqjrAsb6A_WhYPu7m5ZOzgFz_tfLMVI6xIsmMi89omvzblIyoC1D4VR8ad4pIq2ARAcXftREpKb2A24IhiEhA2gTaBkog5gbjOPQHaVLTufuinU/s400/kville+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last month, we made a spur-of-the-moment decision </div>
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to travel to my birthplace... </div>
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...Knoxville, Tennessee!</div>
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A friend of mine posted on facebook once that her young daughter</div>
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asked why Knoxville has a big disco ball in the sky. LOL!</div>
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That is no disco ball,</div>
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although that<em> is</em> a cool idea,</div>
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but the Sun Sphere, built as the centerpiece of the</div>
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1982 World's Fair.</div>
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You gotta be THERE!</div>
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Since we were 30 years late for the fair,</div>
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Michael took the boys to a Redemption CCG tourney</div>
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which was held at a local church.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJBrkLufkYswcW0gfxqSOgW-xFJDX2MsCuusz4fdlc77fJlmc9nAJ9WkiRTP7HyXVjTw8-v8Q5R0QMGfp1N8mohJk2nuR_wQL4qDSV9-njo8T2uBlSv0A2BlCupr5hqDrPP3MG0iqF3Y/s1600/bri+redemption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJBrkLufkYswcW0gfxqSOgW-xFJDX2MsCuusz4fdlc77fJlmc9nAJ9WkiRTP7HyXVjTw8-v8Q5R0QMGfp1N8mohJk2nuR_wQL4qDSV9-njo8T2uBlSv0A2BlCupr5hqDrPP3MG0iqF3Y/s320/bri+redemption.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brian played in his first tournament.</div>
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I have no idea how they did because...</div>
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I spent most of the day at the hotel sick from a lupus flare.</div>
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I did manage to venture out to the BIG used bookstore.</div>
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If I hadn't felt so poorly, I could have spent the whole day there.</div>
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I did look through most of their collection and was able </div>
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to buy most of Brian's literature books for the year.</div>
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Now, that's what I call FUN!</div>
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The next day, we went birding as a family. </div>
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I had mapped out some of Tennessee's best birding spots</div>
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between Knoxville and the town where I grew up. </div>
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Our first spot was a wildlife area</div>
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near Strawberry Plains, TN.</div>
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We like dragonflies, too!</div>
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The fields were full of birds, particularly indigo buntings.</div>
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We also saw yellow-breasted chat, common yellowthroat,</div>
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and a variety of other warblers. In the woods surrounding</div>
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the farm, we saw a yellow-billed cuckoo.</div>
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The YB Cuckoo was on our lifelist from having heard it</div>
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but this was the first actual sighting for all of us.</div>
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In Jefferson City, a small town where my parents went </div>
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to college and only a few miles from where I lived almost </div>
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all my life, we went to a spot I never knew existed before this trip.</div>
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There we spotted egret, heron, and geese.</div>
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Soon, we made our way to my hometown, Morristown.</div>
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We stopped for pictures in front of my high school alma mater.</div>
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We thought it was interesting that the sign just happened </div>
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to show an announcement about freshmen orientation </div>
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as I snapped the shot of my up-coming freshman.</div>
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He missed that orientation. lol</div>
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<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkou5r07gUjoTw-7PWlHEAsHvud7EPLKB5Xxn9Xkun-h1UTd9b564VV3ctcKxR3jfLh5V8hfqiTk513DtAXSEMTw6XjMY4vOmE9S09xV1IqQUUlqqYBZP13aePdYmnnU0jyNIw8yMuJOs/s320/panther+creek.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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We also did some birding at one of my favorite spots,</div>
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Panther Creek State Park.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUv1AxAzpUwES4KRS0a678MSI1q2_3VCcxIdFXGzVRMHXzA6SFxwNAn9QPzABG_gEF4OOyxeA8irG4_47qFahPltt1ZUD6n9JOkSfWVeQwXnCQO91ap_S14uvbV3k74bRVrSKbpaS2Fnk/s1600/view+of+gatlinburgt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUv1AxAzpUwES4KRS0a678MSI1q2_3VCcxIdFXGzVRMHXzA6SFxwNAn9QPzABG_gEF4OOyxeA8irG4_47qFahPltt1ZUD6n9JOkSfWVeQwXnCQO91ap_S14uvbV3k74bRVrSKbpaS2Fnk/s320/view+of+gatlinburgt.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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That evening, we made our way to the Great Smoky Mountains</div>
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National Park. The birding was not as great as we had anticipated.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzxz-w6dJKjzUKdJgEwI4cskqdz2XnnmyaLNm45LZ2KOicK24APzfp1mMuQtsUbUfWnf0e411LoVCGysyo2Ogv2qTNkJvJ7V3cwP5e6v9OaKzPL510t38ydK1r46v1kC5Ihm4dlM4LSE/s1600/boys+at+gatlinburg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzxz-w6dJKjzUKdJgEwI4cskqdz2XnnmyaLNm45LZ2KOicK24APzfp1mMuQtsUbUfWnf0e411LoVCGysyo2Ogv2qTNkJvJ7V3cwP5e6v9OaKzPL510t38ydK1r46v1kC5Ihm4dlM4LSE/s320/boys+at+gatlinburg.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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With it being tourist season, there were just too many people</div>
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for the birds liking. The trails were all way too steep</div>
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for me to attempt to hike, too. :(</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOTMuP4YyNhTd2NgAIkjcQNBCls9m3Qw7ynI5G1vEdu_ekH8-Vx0O0XTGrESe3i3kyF4p0a-YO3HpBdLGWaTK_DPNtJPEReOK297TkntkIzMI0aehY-q1imqxZN9M11q8lqBKREhMfKQ/s1600/cades+cove.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOTMuP4YyNhTd2NgAIkjcQNBCls9m3Qw7ynI5G1vEdu_ekH8-Vx0O0XTGrESe3i3kyF4p0a-YO3HpBdLGWaTK_DPNtJPEReOK297TkntkIzMI0aehY-q1imqxZN9M11q8lqBKREhMfKQ/s320/cades+cove.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We did see some beautiful sights, though.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKMJ9ZW7Ud_XKRa43qtqfa8Z2mS_Hjom9ESR2OgqDKxE00EfbOzDko7bqJ7I3GATNjlpRWf5eBZc_swh0l8DeAuJ7PIxvZdgI0VW2TX21LRQAHYiZ2fgjL-i__5XCbeSuqjlfL1xrpLc/s1600/bri+splash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKMJ9ZW7Ud_XKRa43qtqfa8Z2mS_Hjom9ESR2OgqDKxE00EfbOzDko7bqJ7I3GATNjlpRWf5eBZc_swh0l8DeAuJ7PIxvZdgI0VW2TX21LRQAHYiZ2fgjL-i__5XCbeSuqjlfL1xrpLc/s320/bri+splash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The boys got the chance to hang out in the Chimneys, too.</div>
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Splashing in this creek is a treasured memory of my childhood</div>
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and now is something Brian will always remember as well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0CvNCahTBG3Vj2SGQPsb3q-kMFjFvG-kiHusiE_mctV-eiy8l8wSBw_Y2uy9omRWGuUDGdzWwU-kdFf88fchTk_o_zw2m8ENISd_X0cOLwWmHMUcjvTBlJFL-BhRtD5l8eaUBtr0211o/s1600/pride+rock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0CvNCahTBG3Vj2SGQPsb3q-kMFjFvG-kiHusiE_mctV-eiy8l8wSBw_Y2uy9omRWGuUDGdzWwU-kdFf88fchTk_o_zw2m8ENISd_X0cOLwWmHMUcjvTBlJFL-BhRtD5l8eaUBtr0211o/s320/pride+rock.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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He and Michael had a lot of fun climbing the rocks.</div>
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This one reminded us of Pride Rock from The Lion King.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbb5eOJK4Bi4I0lvS_g9PlnUt4ALieTh8hs4sZdeHUHnOO-lhBDM7laLjNSgevklRlVtME1DJ1Y_OjxQycLM82-CirmWU_euUxl1tBh1AsAjYrLsSUvViblsaCTHDY5hf9UYHffr7Bes/s1600/like+father+like+son+better.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbb5eOJK4Bi4I0lvS_g9PlnUt4ALieTh8hs4sZdeHUHnOO-lhBDM7laLjNSgevklRlVtME1DJ1Y_OjxQycLM82-CirmWU_euUxl1tBh1AsAjYrLsSUvViblsaCTHDY5hf9UYHffr7Bes/s320/like+father+like+son+better.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brian wanted his turn to present "Simba," too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Nyns1ZOpz_Am0-OXaMxT_XrpEsd8EW3Ubfpoj6HMoDgRGi99JnsBeZgBwaikRTLDz90IlRQO9Sp_91oTrTeIM_ditft1MjRj76kxpxzuOGkj-FqyruNj6PaUHUOduV_3ic3afLdqkq0/s1600/ride+em+cowboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Nyns1ZOpz_Am0-OXaMxT_XrpEsd8EW3Ubfpoj6HMoDgRGi99JnsBeZgBwaikRTLDz90IlRQO9Sp_91oTrTeIM_ditft1MjRj76kxpxzuOGkj-FqyruNj6PaUHUOduV_3ic3afLdqkq0/s320/ride+em+cowboy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then they found a "horse" and became cowboys!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5sWl52NS6KJeZt77Iqb39725coq6FlPuWp7944sMEvRJqQRYZuqxsG_X-SidTfNJh_j0X5QUnxcFqTphK9SDrx65xvUWA7m_QoyeT08QbV3uYB8icelyhaFZRq5ojU5MQwVzY0dQ0F4/s1600/m+and+bri+very+sweet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5sWl52NS6KJeZt77Iqb39725coq6FlPuWp7944sMEvRJqQRYZuqxsG_X-SidTfNJh_j0X5QUnxcFqTphK9SDrx65xvUWA7m_QoyeT08QbV3uYB8icelyhaFZRq5ojU5MQwVzY0dQ0F4/s320/m+and+bri+very+sweet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I think they had some great Father-Son QT!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14z77SyarNxik8ckxsga0SkF8YWNt5X3vE2zwe0uJ7O5DJZUWugjgJ1ZuxRqi6uXiPwetypdClYD88X1E2DEjj8Tor0Y2IOsTD8K87ynaCogc7Pa7aC0zn1-qlJ00x_FYzK5XPTqUVY8/s1600/goin+higher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14z77SyarNxik8ckxsga0SkF8YWNt5X3vE2zwe0uJ7O5DJZUWugjgJ1ZuxRqi6uXiPwetypdClYD88X1E2DEjj8Tor0Y2IOsTD8K87ynaCogc7Pa7aC0zn1-qlJ00x_FYzK5XPTqUVY8/s320/goin+higher.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As we drove into the higher altitudes, we did spot more birds.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TdGrzqlnA8OJSkvF9pvUknroc5xMEGqce11611MnXnbzTCDs16E_MPmmPwlz-2jageId3VrsiqmCxmMEXyeHdoWhs1w4okM4j74-PGucU20xF59tojFHT3zDSv0kyAPGpDJX2-5uwj4/s1600/no+were+not+hiking+to+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TdGrzqlnA8OJSkvF9pvUknroc5xMEGqce11611MnXnbzTCDs16E_MPmmPwlz-2jageId3VrsiqmCxmMEXyeHdoWhs1w4okM4j74-PGucU20xF59tojFHT3zDSv0kyAPGpDJX2-5uwj4/s320/no+were+not+hiking+to+me.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But still not on the trails!</div>
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No, Ben, we are NOT hiking all the way to Maine. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiAAPhuuXLJmuvlbLoQNoP4Kr4Q6pCv4kygy9DMWx1UHO0751xRNo12JcCNki-a-5PE2CEWd_iRFqH1MPpG5k3XwLqcrZJA_f74RfuG1-KkCxeOxP4kPsv-y6vnKJajeGWLPfyrGqVbpo/s1600/state+line+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiAAPhuuXLJmuvlbLoQNoP4Kr4Q6pCv4kygy9DMWx1UHO0751xRNo12JcCNki-a-5PE2CEWd_iRFqH1MPpG5k3XwLqcrZJA_f74RfuG1-KkCxeOxP4kPsv-y6vnKJajeGWLPfyrGqVbpo/s320/state+line+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The boys enjoyed crossing back and forth...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFb64amkcwX3vbxjZkUJ8QJDZlDkJXknnvQTeWNBNUVbOy5bFGV6A0NqXvviJJwzHycLX-8WUXek3YGBlYpWDZ7JjwZ35DXEYJp-uojRRUhcomHWcM-OsKTkPn56aFMJBfWPHRrgfS9iM/s1600/state+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFb64amkcwX3vbxjZkUJ8QJDZlDkJXknnvQTeWNBNUVbOy5bFGV6A0NqXvviJJwzHycLX-8WUXek3YGBlYpWDZ7JjwZ35DXEYJp-uojRRUhcomHWcM-OsKTkPn56aFMJBfWPHRrgfS9iM/s320/state+line.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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... and back and forth between Tennessee and North Carolina.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgef_L9HrZfM3eM1TH8old6fZm-mJBenktvcnGxxwh35eeOwj5OWRy-SdOxY7B5gPHnmiU5fFnPkT4_NTUsiXzrUUwRP6nwaloCJFg0Olp6Km9yQS_a9ibA4nnLB0UgQa8ZPYPlgP6PVVk/s1600/i%2527m+taler+than+the+mnt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgef_L9HrZfM3eM1TH8old6fZm-mJBenktvcnGxxwh35eeOwj5OWRy-SdOxY7B5gPHnmiU5fFnPkT4_NTUsiXzrUUwRP6nwaloCJFg0Olp6Km9yQS_a9ibA4nnLB0UgQa8ZPYPlgP6PVVk/s320/i%2527m+taler+than+the+mnt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brian was able to touch a mountaintop. LOL!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYhk1RyE-IXqcOc_PtMiFbu1Fi0i3Vy1YMPbY61SqDI03hQ1soa-LJuaYZ9K9KFMrIiQrB1pmIYG2DjbA9VmkNDIbG8s7qkOmNIRsCR7Osh4vLtKnz_bBGlS0mJfBiJ_fcQ50-_x165Q/s1600/clingman%2527s+dome+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidYhk1RyE-IXqcOc_PtMiFbu1Fi0i3Vy1YMPbY61SqDI03hQ1soa-LJuaYZ9K9KFMrIiQrB1pmIYG2DjbA9VmkNDIbG8s7qkOmNIRsCR7Osh4vLtKnz_bBGlS0mJfBiJ_fcQ50-_x165Q/s320/clingman%2527s+dome+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The guys took the long hike up to Clingman's Dome </div>
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while I stayed below and bird and people watched.</div>
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I felt better about my decision to stay behind as I</div>
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saw people in excellent physical condition</div>
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panting and wheezing. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOLHlmdUPANBfUL3EjL_GfY9gHsQ22Vc_cCqu2lXyiW0kVDtjSCoiPfHzzsuVpyJe8Cut5I-lKvfs1BKGkysMyWaCMH-aawxrkzc1gxf2k6wTeZykQ2z8u8mm1wYURhxMXqoVbrM8jV4/s1600/clingman%2527s+dome+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXOLHlmdUPANBfUL3EjL_GfY9gHsQ22Vc_cCqu2lXyiW0kVDtjSCoiPfHzzsuVpyJe8Cut5I-lKvfs1BKGkysMyWaCMH-aawxrkzc1gxf2k6wTeZykQ2z8u8mm1wYURhxMXqoVbrM8jV4/s320/clingman%2527s+dome+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Michael and the boys made it to the top, though, </div>
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and I added the chestnut-sided warbler</div>
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to my life list. Win-win!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVq4pWyrc1AoIOavSyEtoD_mlCq5-AIH6T7LXSkepQYJtb9rc4OaA2uPTl3nlYsmOvCoDZ8myB_8HSnSoZY92msa7hyGQMdmSwsVQ50YKWuwhpsuXadAVIr2rPhnad1TfFQJ61HNnjA5U/s1600/clingman%2527s+dome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVq4pWyrc1AoIOavSyEtoD_mlCq5-AIH6T7LXSkepQYJtb9rc4OaA2uPTl3nlYsmOvCoDZ8myB_8HSnSoZY92msa7hyGQMdmSwsVQ50YKWuwhpsuXadAVIr2rPhnad1TfFQJ61HNnjA5U/s320/clingman%2527s+dome.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They enjoyed the hike back down much more than the one up!</div>
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After the Dome, I pretty much forgot all about taking pictures.</div>
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We took the long way down out of the mountains</div>
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as we drove through NC, back to Georgia,</div>
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just in time for Michael to have gallbladder surgery!</div>
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What a fun trip!</div>
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I'm glad we decided to be spontaneous for once.</div>
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Happy trails!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span></div>
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-41856266128089347622013-08-02T18:16:00.000-04:002013-08-02T18:55:00.408-04:00Our School Plan: 2013-2014<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s283.photobucket.com/user/homeschooldawn/media/iStock_000008295173XSmall1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo iStock_000008295173XSmall1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk283/homeschooldawn/iStock_000008295173XSmall1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I just want you all to know that I had to think for five minutes in order to remember the name of the website where I have the above stock photo stored. </div>
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In other words, don't expect much from this post. :)<a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/05/im-little-bit-lupie.html"> I am still struggling with lupus fog</a> and am currently not the most enthusiastic blogger. However, I will break through the fog long enough to keep with tradition and reveal our plans for the up-coming school year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYa9IR2hxL3miosp_mJrVs66_LFPx_mv60FiMZuB2dpIs0XEn7r8iSq0_UXiQzuBSpQA0yT_htu8UvGYFpXYI_JDKhdUKRMXrUzZUlBsZisbaH5lvAdy4mYZr1KXnUug74mCUfemj-Hw/s1600/Ben+B&W.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYa9IR2hxL3miosp_mJrVs66_LFPx_mv60FiMZuB2dpIs0XEn7r8iSq0_UXiQzuBSpQA0yT_htu8UvGYFpXYI_JDKhdUKRMXrUzZUlBsZisbaH5lvAdy4mYZr1KXnUug74mCUfemj-Hw/s200/Ben+B&W.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Ben</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">14-years-old</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">9th grade</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo Credit: <a href="http://chloevirginiaphotography.zenfolio.com/">Chloe Virginia Photography</a></span></div>
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In case it didn't jump out at you, MY SON IS STARTING HIGH SCHOOL! (The caps lock indicates one part excitement, nine parts freaking out.) He got a bit of a jump-start on the process last year by taking 3 classes for high school credit, and I used the year to prepare myself by keeping really, really good records (for the 1st time EVER). That's something I highly recommend you do during your 1st child's 8th grade year, but that is another post for another day. I won't go into detail right now so that I can share the plan for his official freshman year.</div>
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<strong>Math</strong></div>
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He began<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_9?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=videotext+algebra&sprefix=videotext%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Avideotext+algebra">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> <em>Videotext Algebra</em></a> <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> last year and will finish up modules D, E and F this year, giving him credit for Algebra I and II. We really like this curriculum because the teachers on the video explain the content really well. I am able to watch the lessons with him in order to refresh my memory. It's only been a quarter of a century since I last studied Algebra! Ha! I need the help to be able to help him. </div>
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As a quick aside: that is how homeschooling high school works. You do not have to be an expert but you do have to seek quality resources and help. It is out there so don't be intimidated!</div>
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<strong>English/Language Arts</strong></div>
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Ben will take a co-op class for high school freshmen and sophomores, and his teacher will be, drum roll... ME! I will use <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_19?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=excellence+in+literature&sprefix=excellence+in+liter%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aexcellence+in+literature">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Excellence in Literature, Year 2</a></em>; <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_11?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=lost+tools+of+writing&sprefix=lost+tools+%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Alost+tools+of+writing">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">The Lost Tools of Writing</a></em>; and <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_11?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=analytical+grammar&sprefix=analytical+%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aanalytical+grammar">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Analytical Grammar</a></em>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate links)</span></div>
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<em>EiL</em> is designed to be used as a self-paced course. He completed Year 1 last year, and it worked great that way. However, I like the idea of meeting together with others for literature class so that the students can have the experience of discussing the content and performing the plays. I will fold in lots of resources and activities to develop critical thinking and literary analysis skills.</div>
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We are new to <em>The Lost Tools</em>. Ben has completed almost every IEW unit available, so we thought this was a good year to test drive something new. As fabulous as IEW is, it is always a good idea to try more than one approach and not get locked into a particular style.</div>
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Last year, he completed 2/3 of <em>AG</em> and will review this content with his class in the fall. In the spring, he (and his classmates) will complete season 3 on punctuation rules.</div>
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At home, he will also complete <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_21?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=vocabulary+from+greek+and+latin+roots&sprefix=vocabulary+from+greek%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Avocabulary+from+greek+and+latin+roots">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Vocabulary from Latin and Greek Roots</a></em>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span></div>
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<strong>History/Geography/Worldview</strong></div>
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This is a very important study in our home for many reasons but most particularly because Ben seems very serious about pursuing a career in law, politics, or related field. His college major will likely be history.</div>
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We have chosen to use the video course from<a href="http://kingsmeadow.com/curriculum/"> King's Meadow Study Center</a> <span style="color: #e06666;">(no affiliation)</span> taught by Dr. George Grant. Technically, this study of the period of <em>Antiquity</em> is a full humanities course and will also include theology, literature, art, music, and other aspects of culture and worldview. I am teaching the additional literature class because I want Ben to have direct instruction in analysis/paper writing, so we will not include all the supplemental readings suggested by King's Meadow. Also, I will probably award more than one credit for this course or include part of the work completed as part of his English credit for the year. Lord willing, I can let you know how this goes as the year progresses.</div>
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<strong>Science</strong></div>
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My dad is teaching high school biology at our co-op! Woo hoo!! Another year without science on my plate!!! </div>
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Excuse me while I happy dance for a minute. :)</div>
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He will complete the<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=bju+biology&sprefix=vocabulary+from+greek%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Abju+biology">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> BJU curriculum</a> <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> and is already working on a research project focusing on bird populations in our area.</div>
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<strong>Foreign Language</strong></div>
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He will complete Spanish III at home with Michael as the teacher. They will use <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=avancemos&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aavancemos">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Avancemos</a>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> This is not a homeschool-friendly curriculum and is designed for a classroom teacher and setting. Since that's my husband's profession, it's the curriculum of choice here; however, you might find it not so user-friendly.</div>
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<strong>Logic</strong></div>
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He will complete<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=introductory+logic&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aintroductory+logic">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"><em> Introductory Logic</em> (Wilson and Nance)</a> <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> and watch the video lessons which accompany the workbook. </div>
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Can you see a trend in our high school plan??!! </div>
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We tried a number of schooling options last year... from online classes to co-op... from mom-directed to video courses. We had the least success with online and the most success with video courses. 8th grade really is a good time to get a feel for what will work for your child's high school years. But again, that's another post for another day....</div>
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<strong>PE</strong></div>
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He began Karate lessons over the summer with the plan of only taking a few months per year in order to spread the credit out over the four summers of high school. However, Ben LOVE, LOVE, LOVES Karate. We are blessed to have a studio run by a Christian, homeschooling family. Karate is one of the best things we have ever done for him, and our only regret is that we didn't start sooner. Sooo... we're going to keep him in it all year and allow him to continue for as long as he wants.</div>
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<strong>Fine Arts</strong></div>
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We are also blessed with an awesome art studio in town which offers lessons at a very, very reasonable price. He will take lessons with Brian and a couple friends. The teacher graciously agreed to teach art to correlate with Brian's history topics which will also partially line up with Ben's studies. I'm thrilled!</div>
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<strong>Extra-curricular</strong></div>
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<li>Yearbook staff</li>
<li>Competitive speech and (maybe) debate</li>
<li>Youth Birding Competition</li>
<li>Science Fair</li>
<li>International Festival</li>
<li>National History Day Project</li>
<li>Homeschool Teen Group</li>
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(What was your question about socialization, again? hahahaha)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCA-tO3voAaMnLVq7UlyhPq914Ntu7AKzQ2bgA6hkmkYlMPdbi5SHHFJ0pnKMgdlPbRa9G4nES49jDx2bpQLh8c92A-Y5njOsxoCsK7TplUdSScHewqY46iSzIaJWbW2CXk2HbDXjbu4/s1600/brian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCA-tO3voAaMnLVq7UlyhPq914Ntu7AKzQ2bgA6hkmkYlMPdbi5SHHFJ0pnKMgdlPbRa9G4nES49jDx2bpQLh8c92A-Y5njOsxoCsK7TplUdSScHewqY46iSzIaJWbW2CXk2HbDXjbu4/s320/brian.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo Credit: </span><a href="http://chloevirginiaphotography.zenfolio.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chloe Virginia Photography</span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> Brian</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 12-years-old</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 7th Grade</span><br />
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<strong>Math</strong><br />
We are parting ways with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=singapore+math&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Asingapore+math">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Singapore Math</a>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> It signifies the end of an era for us because Singapore has served us well since Ben was in 1st grade. Brian completed level 6 last year (the last of the primary maths), and I do not feel comfortable continuing to teach from their program for upper grades.<br />
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It's hard!<br />
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We are switching to<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_11?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=glencoe+pre-algebra&sprefix=glencoe+pre%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aglencoe+pre-algebra">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> Glencoe's Pre-Algebra</a>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> This is a little more teacher-intensive than I like for math; however, we don't want Brian starting Videotext until 8th grade. This will be a transition and review year for him.<br />
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<strong>English/Language Arts</strong><br />
I will be teaching a middle school co-op class for Brian and his friends, too. They will begin <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_9?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=analytical+grammar&sprefix=analytica%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aanalytical+grammar">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Analytical Grammar</a></em>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span> I will pace that according to the needs of the class but hope to cover the first season during the fall semester and the second season in the spring, leaving the third season for next year.<br />
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I am also going to teach from Analytical Grammar's new literature and composition component: <em>Beyond the Book Report</em>. This curriculum is also geared for home study because it has a video lesson component. Although I do not plan on showing videos to a class-for-pay, I like the scope and sequence of this curriculum and how it ties in with the grammar program. It will make a great spine.<br />
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I will also fold in some<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=iew&sprefix=lost+tools+of+%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aiew">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> IEW</a>, some <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_17?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=excellence+in+literature&sprefix=excellence+in+lit%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aexcellence+in+literature">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">EiL,</a> some<em> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&hvadid=22377612045&hvdev=c&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvpone=&hvpos=1t1&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvrand=632574266418366992&index=aps&keywords=vocabulary%20classical%20roots&linkCode=ur2&ref=pd_sl_3pt9ph86hi_b&tag=olivplan-20#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_14?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=lost+tools+of+writing&sprefix=lost+tools+of+%2Caps%2C202&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Alost+tools+of+writing">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Lost Tools of Writing</a></em>, and some<em> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=olivplan-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=1600510418" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>">Art of Poetry</a></em>. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate links)</span> We will practice literary analysis using short stories and poems as our text, and I will probably fold in a little <em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&pageMinusResults=1&suo=1375479459820&tag=olivplan-20&url=search-alias%3Daps#/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_14?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=teaching%20the%20classics&sprefix=teaching+the+c%2Caps%2C192&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Ateaching%20the%20classics">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Teaching the Classics</a> </em>methodology. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link) </span>And, as always, there will be some Dawn-essori (i.e. whatever hits my brain) methodology in there as well! Lol!<br />
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I am allowing the parents of my students to build their own reading lists because 1) it really doesn't matter to me what they read, 2) I can grade book reports without having read the book, and 3) in middle school, different kids are ready for vastly different books. I do not want to lock families into a reading plan which could potentially make them miserable and I want them to have the freedom to do what is best for their children. <br />
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Consider that an introduction to the explanation of our choice of literature for Brian. He will read the<em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&pageMinusResults=1&suo=1375479459820&tag=olivplan-20&url=search-alias%3Daps#/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=redwall&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aredwall">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> Redwall</a></em> series by Brian Jacques. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link) </span>Brian is a big fan and lacks 9 books to finish the series, exactly the number he needs for my class as he will read one per month for the book report component. We will add more to his reading list than that, but the <em>Redwall</em> books are the ones he will read carefully for the sake of report writing.<br />
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<strong>History</strong><br />
<em><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=olivplan-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=1601441444" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>">World History Detective</a></em> from Critical Thinking Co. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span><br />
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I chose this curriculum because <a href="http://www.classicalhistorian.com/">The Classical Historian</a> recommends it <span style="color: #e06666;">(no affiliation),</span> and it looks simple. We need simple for my non-historian.<br />
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One caveat: this curriculum is not from a Christian publisher. We will reference the first four lesson on the origins of man and evolution because I do want my children to understand what the other side believes; however, we will use the book of <em>Genesis</em>, a sermon series on <em>Genesis</em>, and resources from<a href="http://www.answersingenesis.org/"> Answers in Genesis</a> to learn the truth<span style="color: #e06666;"> (no affiliation). </span><span style="color: black;"> </span>Overall, <em>World History Detective</em> provides a straightforward presentation and a logical examination of history, and since we are not relying on this text to build worldview, I think it will suit our needs well.<br />
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<strong>Geography</strong><br />
Usually, I weave geography into our history studies, and of course, we will be unable to study the history of the ancient world without some map study. However, I have found that relying solely on this approach has led to a very limited understanding of geography in our house. We have only covered modern history lightly, so my kids have not learned the current map as well as I would like. Also, to my horror, I discovered they do not know geographic terms very well either. So, Brian will be completing BJU's<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=olivplan-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B000K517RK" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>"> <em>Geography for Christian Schools</em></a>, and as we reach content that I know will fill in some of Ben's gaps, I will pull him into the study. <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span><br />
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Another homeschool coaching moment: this is also how homeschool works. Don't allow yourself to be paralyzed by the fear of "gaps in their education." Know that all forms of schooling leave some gaps. There is no perfect school. However, constantly assess, find the holes, and then fill them in. :)<br />
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<strong>Science</strong><br />
CO-OP!!! Brian will take BJU's<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20src=%22http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=olivplan-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=1591662990" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>"> <em>Space and Earth Science</em></a> from his Papaw. Hooray!!! <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span><br />
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<strong>Foreign Language</strong><br />
There's not much new to say here.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=avancemos&linkCode=ur2&tag=olivplan-20&url=search-alias%3Daps">Name Your Link</a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=olivplan-20&l=ur2&o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />"> Avancemos</a>. Dad. No mama, muchas gracias! <span style="color: #e06666;">(affiliate link)</span><br />
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<strong>PE</strong><br />
See Ben's PE, please. :)<br />
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<strong>Fine Arts</strong><br />
I'll have to send you back to Ben's section again. :) :)<br />
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<strong>Extra-curricular</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Youth Birding Competition</li>
<li>International Festival</li>
<li>Science Fair</li>
<li>Homeschool Teen Group</li>
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Well, that's it! We're in for a busy year here at Olive Plants Home Academy. I will see you again... probably in May. :)<br />
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Blessings and have a great school year,<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span><br />
homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-10936955890453325922013-06-19T09:25:00.000-04:002013-06-19T09:27:01.117-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: I am so mad at IKEA!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week, my dad and I went to IKEA Atlanta to buy the boys' furniture-- step 2 of<a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/06/olive-plants-graffiti.html"> Project Move the Boys</a>. I had checked their website about a zillion times because finding the exact pieces to fit their rooms was essential to the success of our remodeling project. I chose IKEA because they specialize in small spaces, and Brian's room in particular is teeny, tiny. There was nothing on their website to indicate the horror of all horrors that would meet me once at the store: the loft bed for Bri's room has been discontinued. I think it is available in the store in Washington state, and although I'm dedicated, that would be a bit far to drive. Sigh.<br />
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So, let's just say it was a stressful week which involved more soda than it should have. lol <br />
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How did I fare? Well... you'll have to click over to my new blog, <a href="http://wednesdayweighinclub.blogspot.com/2013/06/hey-ho-its-new-blog.html">Wednesday Weigh-in Club</a>, to find out! It's super cute so click that link, K? I have decided to get back down to business here at Olive Plants and keep things more homeschool/homemaking focused. If you are interested in following my weigh-ins, please follow or subscribe once at <a href="http://wednesdayweighinclub.blogspot.com/">WWC</a>. I look forward to seeing you there (and here!).<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Dawn<br />
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-47246748013592573082013-06-12T07:49:00.000-04:002013-06-12T07:49:42.239-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: Round one is complete!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You might think my title implies I have reached my first weight loss goal. That would make a lot of sense, since this is a post about weight loss. But, no. I could never keep things that organized and logical.<br />
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Variety is what you get here, folks. Variety!<br />
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Most likely, several weeks will pass before I hit my first weight-loss goal; however, we have completed round one of project "Move the Boys." You saw<a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/06/olive-plants-graffiti.html"> Brian's room</a> earlier this week. Ben's room is now painted and ready for furniture, too. We're done with yard sales, and other than a few items that I just couldn't send to Goodwill and hope to sell online, the house has been purged! <br />
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But you want to read about weight loss, don't you? This is a Wednesday Weigh-in after all! <br />
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<strong>This week I lost 1.8 pounds!</strong></div>
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<strong>That brings my total to 16 pounds.</strong></div>
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I was really happy with the scale this morning, <a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/06/wednesday-weigh-in-roller-coaster-week.html">especially after last week's itty, bitty little dip</a>. Add to that all the stuff we removed from closets and under beds and I feel much, much lighter this week! I don't feel as jam packed into my house or my clothes. It's a nice feeling.<br />
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By this time next week, we should have all the new furniture assembled and in place and all of the boys' belongings organized. Felix and Oscar (aka Ben and Brian) will not have to share a room any more. Felix (I'm not saying who's who) will be in organizational heaven. Oscar... well, we'll help him get organized, but will he stay that way? Here's hoping! :)<br />
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You can pray for my stamina this week. I really struggled to get it all done last week and felt rotten by the weekend. If Michael weren't at home to do more than his share of the work and if the boys weren't old enough to do their fair share too, this project wouldn't happen. I'm thankful for my guys; however, I'm really struggling with "spoon contentment." (So that will make more sense, you can read <a href="http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/">The Spoon Theory</a> by Christine Miserandino.) It is really hard to feel good about yourself when everyone around you feels exhausted because they have lived a full, very active life while you're totally spent because you painted one wall. When you have a chronic illness, the wrestle with feelings of inadequacy is fierce. If that sounds like a pity party, well, it is. I'm working through some stuff over here. Thanks for keeping me in your prayers as I learn new lessons in contentment.<br />
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Blessings,<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-42656569089722813852013-06-05T17:37:00.003-04:002013-06-05T17:57:44.375-04:00Olive Plants Graffiti<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Warning!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">You may need protective eyewear to read this post.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Please put on your sunglasses before scrolling down.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Brian's favorite color is <span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: yellow; font-size: large;">YELLOW</span>. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: yellow; font-size: x-large;">BRIGHT YELLOW!</span></div>
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A few weeks ago, we started the discussion about what his new room would look like. I wanted the boys' new separate rooms to reflect each of their personalities. Not that I think that's something kids have to have; however, my guys are less than 13 months apart in age and have always shared a very small bedroom. We think it's time for them to spread out a little and see what's it like to have their own personalized space. </div>
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Well, Mr. Yellow-loving, almost-teenaged, artistically-inclined boy wanted his room to be... drum roll...<span style="color: yellow;"> <span style="background-color: #eeeeee;">YELLOW</span></span>! In my mind, I pictured a lovely butternut, or something-out-of-Martha-Stewart-Living kind of yellow. Brian, however, longed for<em> taxicab</em> yellow. *sigh</div>
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I decided we could do a wall or two of the brighter yellow, but that we needed some other colors in the mix as not to be <strike>blinded</strike> overwhelmed by the yellow. That's when I got the bright idea (pun not intended) to do splatter paint on two of the walls. We could paint those walls a nice, crisp, clean white and splatter some complementary colors on it. If we added a little taxicab to the splatter mix, it would tie in nicely with the yellow walls and soften the room a bit.</div>
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The complementary colors of Brian's choice? </div>
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<span style="color: orange;">ORANGE</span>!</div>
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And <span style="color: red;">RED</span>!!</div>
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Oh dear....</div>
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I must be in the running for World's Best Mom because I took the boy to Wal Mart to buy the paint colors of his dreams. Sadly for him (hooray for me!), the mixing machine would not accept the code for taxicab yellow, and we had to go down a few shades to "yellow snapdragon." (Must have hurt the computer's eyes, too.) Phew! </div>
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However, when I went to pick out two quarts to have tinted orange and red, I experienced a bit of sticker shock. They were only $1 cheaper than the gallons. I wasn't going to buy 3 gallons of paint AND I wasn't going to pay that much for the quarts. That's when inspiration struck.</div>
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I bought paintable wallpaper and spray paint! We would be able to spray paint the paper outside, keep the mess out of the house, and save money all in one fell swoop.</div>
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Genius! </div>
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Or so I thought. (Ahem, *cough, cough)</div>
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Once home, the first thing Brian and I did was paint the trim white and two of the walls yellow.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLz_qQGPuHYOz50UkfVD9Hwr5XaF5hE4BXvH8Yc32baD91E3aCh__3ortCrJoXvif4Tzpv-Zl6_QVL1fT_QD5C_8DsJvXLeHvy079TlwmjCxxs0DrfbYfLBuxYTEt2v5eUGr5-yqk18uk/s1600/Painting+Step.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLz_qQGPuHYOz50UkfVD9Hwr5XaF5hE4BXvH8Yc32baD91E3aCh__3ortCrJoXvif4Tzpv-Zl6_QVL1fT_QD5C_8DsJvXLeHvy079TlwmjCxxs0DrfbYfLBuxYTEt2v5eUGr5-yqk18uk/s400/Painting+Step.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His new loft bed will go on this wall between the window and the corner.<br />
Beneath the loft, we will put a desk and shelves for his school work.<br />
Did you put on your shades?<br />
I warned you, yet you haven't seen the brightest part.<br />
Prepare yourselves, now!</td></tr>
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Next, Brian took the wallpaper outside and got down with the spray paint. Instead of splatter paint, we had graffiti. (So much for genius.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15gtpTKPar2buM_GQLOMSFOMzjCxy_I6iLbJIRgsyWxhx1MYTpvk0ZX1Ys8PoSlaC4G7O0Y8QnyzZ9b7ziZ7kiHLHW9TIrNLnGFAaqpZfmg_3NLlru2L2Rxo8pocFGceBcwDtGnGRIK0/s1600/Brian+spray+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15gtpTKPar2buM_GQLOMSFOMzjCxy_I6iLbJIRgsyWxhx1MYTpvk0ZX1Ys8PoSlaC4G7O0Y8QnyzZ9b7ziZ7kiHLHW9TIrNLnGFAaqpZfmg_3NLlru2L2Rxo8pocFGceBcwDtGnGRIK0/s400/Brian+spray+painting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He LOVED this step!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Once dry, we hung the graffiti paper on the two unpainted walls. Then I did a little touch-up spray paint along the seams to make the sheets blend together.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhA_Jxtxr-dR8wq14JPdf1aEx6ZW8Un7br5Kue11BYErbgaOHDz1PgGTjVsZYIfCw4Aup-oIDdbam1QdI1ZUTYhNgt9QkZAEtAUpO1FfqLs6FIaL19eSM9J9omKlNjJwbgnHBQEaEeeY/s1600/Inside+Spray+Paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhA_Jxtxr-dR8wq14JPdf1aEx6ZW8Un7br5Kue11BYErbgaOHDz1PgGTjVsZYIfCw4Aup-oIDdbam1QdI1ZUTYhNgt9QkZAEtAUpO1FfqLs6FIaL19eSM9J9omKlNjJwbgnHBQEaEeeY/s400/Inside+Spray+Paint.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I did this part very carefully so that I would not get spray paint on the floor,<br />
windows, ceiling, or doors.<br />
I would advise covering everything with plastic before beginning.<br />
Spraying outside first kept it from being too messy of a project, though,<br />
and I was able to keep the paint on the wall and off everything else.<br />
However, Dad does have some yellow, orange, and red grass to mow.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Once the spray paint dried, we removed the painter's tape, and VOILA! We had a yellow, red, and orange graffiti room.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIfVs9Twg_L52kT2MVzzCKezAJ_amZykM-h1e0CMhdGnRpy292bPE4KVZLBSDBrfyDpE6bew0a2IzGJLgC2oFSGQ9oK8bb7J26JyTOxI2tGjupMooBsrMaGMkAW8WgeGvwk7l74f7Cd4/s1600/Finished+View+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIfVs9Twg_L52kT2MVzzCKezAJ_amZykM-h1e0CMhdGnRpy292bPE4KVZLBSDBrfyDpE6bew0a2IzGJLgC2oFSGQ9oK8bb7J26JyTOxI2tGjupMooBsrMaGMkAW8WgeGvwk7l74f7Cd4/s400/Finished+View+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The loft wall is to the left.<br />
The graffiti wall between the door and the window <br />
will serve as his "art studio."<br />
We are buying him a long, red table to fit in that spot<br />
and will hang red and white shelves above<br />
for storing supplies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbeVvI6By9WVKPkFGCWIa_xrrGeck3vUCxIvxcbMuHrsPa8w8qjhBcQV3qNJFHsKw-jbh8Ft9OP6td2Sl_XVVy1VV4Fc9wL7_Jko61DQAa5lvR4Vdyn3jIhR_8cf5Q3yhS9vbnoI7tqU/s1600/Finished+View+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbeVvI6By9WVKPkFGCWIa_xrrGeck3vUCxIvxcbMuHrsPa8w8qjhBcQV3qNJFHsKw-jbh8Ft9OP6td2Sl_XVVy1VV4Fc9wL7_Jko61DQAa5lvR4Vdyn3jIhR_8cf5Q3yhS9vbnoI7tqU/s400/Finished+View+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The graffiti wall between the two doors is opposite where his loft will be.<br />
It will have a tall, red and white bookshelf with drawers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbBcIC3XTtM2fYzV0MH113V7Ebn1UXIT3alrmK1krYRIBaBS5dXk5mzu1z_M7kSdJspD7F1lnLpzyYSXiEZuYS0W-3UEbmF5akTcDCQgqBHsbFpQokaSv9Wz4ATpf-26LrKkRQ-DdHNo/s1600/Finished+View+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbBcIC3XTtM2fYzV0MH113V7Ebn1UXIT3alrmK1krYRIBaBS5dXk5mzu1z_M7kSdJspD7F1lnLpzyYSXiEZuYS0W-3UEbmF5akTcDCQgqBHsbFpQokaSv9Wz4ATpf-26LrKkRQ-DdHNo/s400/Finished+View+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is another view of the wall between the doors.<br />
I like how the corner turned out. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br />
We will head to IKEA in a week or two to buy furniture. We have to paint Ben's room next week before making that trip. In a few weeks, when everything is in place, I will post pictures of the completed room with furniture.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Painting!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span></div>
homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-139841295743498642013-06-05T08:08:00.003-04:002013-06-05T08:31:36.206-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: A Roller Coaster Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4Rtw3JqbFDGS-xfslwDmeqASECt8kM4nOTEx0hw54EbAjR2n337R1jWkWYGc-5qY6JgpwrLzjw7ZbR_YsYWYVYA2A2sQq8JkboRsndtV1z_LyTQHX8l75ggFyqfhY-mjY6tdKkc0N2A/s1600/wedweighin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4Rtw3JqbFDGS-xfslwDmeqASECt8kM4nOTEx0hw54EbAjR2n337R1jWkWYGc-5qY6JgpwrLzjw7ZbR_YsYWYVYA2A2sQq8JkboRsndtV1z_LyTQHX8l75ggFyqfhY-mjY6tdKkc0N2A/s320/wedweighin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I know you're not supposed to weigh yourself everyday. "Your weight fluctuates daily," says my dieting guidebook. However, I can't help but peek every couple of days. Seven is just TOO many to wait. :)<br />
<br />
So, last week I weighed myself again on Thursday. I was down 3 whole pounds. IN.ONE.DAY! Unable to believe this, I continued to weigh daily and the 3 pound loss held... until Sunday morning.<br />
<br />
On Saturday, we participated in a multi-family yard sale. I was outside all day, mostly seated to protect my joints, but still more active than normal. I didn't check in at MFP because I was just too busy; however, I also didn't eat very much that day because I was just too busy. I naively thought that if I had lost nearly 3 pounds in one day after doing very little, surely I would be down at least that much after so much activity.<br />
<br />
WRONG!<br />
<br />
I was back up 2 pounds on Sunday morning. <br />
<br />
That, my friends, is why you have to stay off the scale and wait for the weekly weigh-in. I was so depressed! <br />
<br />
However, instead of being a big cry baby and grabbing a tub of ice cream and the big spoon (cause that's what I really wanted to do), I put on my big girl panties and dealt with it. I kept eating within my budget, and here's what happened...<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>I lost 0.2 pound!</strong></div>
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<strong>That takes my total weight loss to 14.2 pounds.</strong></div>
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</div>
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So, two-tenths of a pound doesn't feel that fabulous-- especially after seeing 3 pounds lost and having lost so much in previous weeks. However, I weigh less than last week. That's what is important- to keep losing a little at a time as I can.</div>
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</div>
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I won't be an overachieving perfectionist about this.... I won't be an overachieving perfectionist about this... I won't be....</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This week you can pray for me as I paint Brian's room and have another yard sale this Saturday. We did great last week and sold enough to pay for the new furniture in both rooms; however, we have so much stuff which has collected over the years that we must get rid of. Pray that God will grant me grace and patience needed to pace myself, that He will keep my pain levels down, and that I will be stay true to counting calories while very busy and fighting fatigue all the way. Lupus never leaves you alone, but life must move on anyway....</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Blessings,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-75165143665583742892013-05-29T07:43:00.000-04:002013-05-29T07:43:50.817-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: Fruit Basket Turnover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_cFdsvGzqWKCXrcgLqSAmQ5qPqdJECA3DkCRBDmaWr7vZohE3lbgjhLHkJPC9xqEyxxwKaOiJ-vvGzVLaJHlzr1evb3sr0vdSsGzX6QFnVCn9ycpor6MlRFBcNaa9utvQwxlHwIeY3U/s1600/wedweighin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_cFdsvGzqWKCXrcgLqSAmQ5qPqdJECA3DkCRBDmaWr7vZohE3lbgjhLHkJPC9xqEyxxwKaOiJ-vvGzVLaJHlzr1evb3sr0vdSsGzX6QFnVCn9ycpor6MlRFBcNaa9utvQwxlHwIeY3U/s320/wedweighin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This has a been a week of utter chaos. <br />
<br />
Our homeschool year is complete, and Michael only has one more day of "post planning" before his summer break begins. What are we planning to do with our time off?<br />
<br />
Completely rearrange every.thing.in.our.house. (That and teach English. Teachers don't really get the summer off, y'all. ;))<br />
<br />
Phase one began over spring break when we repainted the master bedroom and moved one piece of furniture out to the living room. We also emptied a large entertainment center and a few bookshelves that we intend to sell. We don't watch tv and we own too many books for the amount of space we have. (Yes, you can own too many books. LOL) That furniture is way too big and has to go! However, our living room and dining room have served as storage areas for two months now. Ahhhh!<br />
<br />
The boys spent Memorial Day cleaning and completely clearing out their bedroom while I cleaned out the classroom closet and Michael cleaned out the attic. Good times! I canNOT believe how much stuff I had crammed in that closet. It was like I pulled a School Box and a homeschool convention out of there.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I worked furiously while seated on my bed. The boys brought piles of stuff from various yard sale storage areas around the house and placed them all around me. I sorted through the mound, pricing and labeling, until I could see the bed again... at which time the boys brought another big stack of things... lather, rinse, repeat....<br />
<br />
In the midst of it all, I managed to log into MFP every day! Woot! Drum roll, please....<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I lost 1.2 pounds!</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I have lost 14 pounds total!</span></strong></div>
<br />
This week you can pray for our big sale on Saturday. We plan to move the boys into their own bedrooms and need to get rid of a lot of stuff. That's why I had to clear out the classroom. Our academy no longer has a dedicated school space. :( Our guys are too old to need a cutesy classroom anymore. A desk and bookshelf will do just fine. Pray that all this activity doesn't prompt a pain flare, too. I have been pacing myself and making modifications (like sorting from my bed) which usually helps.<br />
<br />
Thanks for checking in!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-63887925857449543282013-05-22T09:15:00.001-04:002013-05-22T09:15:24.443-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: Sleeping Beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt1e2exH4wXdSdObjR2E8qTNyY8-5UvGuPL3SufJXTeUSSZIFhxrQ6koYdXni8ldzgfcYJyhOlDe2h7LOyCCMkTpVWN6lImTya7uHCjSI-gP12aRQHtfyYw2QOeFW-djV6iSc9F0FxaCQ/s1600/wedweighin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt1e2exH4wXdSdObjR2E8qTNyY8-5UvGuPL3SufJXTeUSSZIFhxrQ6koYdXni8ldzgfcYJyhOlDe2h7LOyCCMkTpVWN6lImTya7uHCjSI-gP12aRQHtfyYw2QOeFW-djV6iSc9F0FxaCQ/s320/wedweighin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My husband's nickname for me is Aurora Carina. That's Spanish/Latin for my full given name (Pronounced "uh-roar-uh car-een-ya"; If you're really cool, you can trill those Rs. I can't.). I have always treasured that nickname because it reminds of me the Aurora Borealis and Princess Aurora from <em>Sleeping Beauty</em>. He is my Prince Charming, and that name encompasses a beauty which makes me feel like a princess. It is my handle over at <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/">My Fitness Pal</a>, too, if you want to "friend me." (no caps: auroracarina).<br />
<br />
However, this week that name has been more appropriate than ever (the sleeping part, not the beauty part ;)). <a href="http://homeschooldawn.blogspot.com/2013/05/wednesday-weigh-in-starting-over.html">Last week, I mentioned I felt really sick</a>. Well, people with auto-immune diseases don't just snap back from a minor cold after a few days. Colds quickly develop into bronchitis or pneumonia (3 days this time for me; 3rd time this school year.). Therefore, it takes us a couple weeks and lots of specialized treatment to get better. Therefore, my battle with fatigue raged twice as fierce this week. I lost. Soundly sleeping by 7 p.m. each night, I have managed merely to complete the absolute have-to's each day. <br />
<br />
For that reason, I missed counting calories on MFP three days this week. I did work hard to keep a mental estimate of caloric intake and did not allow extra, unnecessary calories. Well, I did splurge a teeny bit and indulge by savoring a small slice of cheesecake on Monday.<br />
<br />
(It was my 18th anniversary, y'all, and cheesecake is hub's and my tradition. shhh...)<br />
<br />
Despite my bout with narcolepsy and the indulgence, the scales were kind to me this morning.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>I lost 2 pounds!</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong>That brings my 2-week total to 12.8 pounds!</strong></div>
<br />
I was thrilled with that loss given the circumstances of the week and that I lost so much last week that I anticipated a small gain this week. <br />
<br />
For those of you praying for me, remember my sleep cycle if you would, please. I finish my prescriptions for my "cold" tonight and am starting to feel well again. Thanks for your prayers. If there is anyway I can pray for you, please let me know in comments or by email.<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span>homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2794637839803388126.post-23441824776795434212013-05-15T09:41:00.001-04:002013-05-15T09:41:34.647-04:00Wednesday Weigh-in: Starting Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSKJjllXGPWmQ54yOAuYfHz9D5_YWrglKXOAqpPTYXNJ9ef5cBaL7XDzetTzpNZTB58kuDhuaJRrKpBm3dqOGJqsaQdG_1-YTH6sOB8ui3Pe3OFRp7sB4xa5y9BhPT_rZACKiiW2Lm-4/s1600/wedweighin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkSKJjllXGPWmQ54yOAuYfHz9D5_YWrglKXOAqpPTYXNJ9ef5cBaL7XDzetTzpNZTB58kuDhuaJRrKpBm3dqOGJqsaQdG_1-YTH6sOB8ui3Pe3OFRp7sB4xa5y9BhPT_rZACKiiW2Lm-4/s320/wedweighin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
About a year and half ago, I started a weight-loss meme, and it really helped keep me on track. I lost over 30 pounds. <br />
<br />
Then a lupus flare hit.<br />
<br />
A big, bad, nasty flare which lasted several months. When those come along, it is a huge struggle just to do simple tasks like brushing my hair. Counting calories is just not going to happen in the midst of a flare.<br />
<br />
I started my meds for lupus in December and my pain flares seem to be under control. I say "seem to be" because with this disease, you just never know. Another flare could be lurking around the corner. Regardless, I have decided that it is time to get back on track with nutrition and weight-loss. Working through the side effects of the meds and getting my pain levels manageable was phase one of my get healthier plan. So, now on to phase two....<br />
<br />
Truthfully, we don't really eat all that bad around here. I like most fruits and veggies and serve up lean, baked meats most nights. Our favorite meal as a family is chicken cooked in the wok with white wine and fresh herbs, steamed rice, and squash (also cooked in the wok with a little olive oil, herbs, and white wine). The problem for me is snacking. Lupus keeps me from leading an active lifestyle which means there is NO room in my diet for extra calories. I have to count them and stop eating as soon as I'm out.<br />
<br />
Plain and simple... it works for me every time, as evidenced by this week's weight loss.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I lost 10.8 pounds this week!</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now, here's the thing. 1st weeks are always big losers for me... water weight and all that business. Then I got hit with a nasty bug and lived on popsicles and chai tea for 2 days. I'm sure that contributed to my big loss, and it is possible that I will put a little back on next week. (Not planning to do that, but you know what I mean.)</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm not putting the meme up this time because I can't turn this into a big responsibility. It is something that I must do to keep me motivated and moving in the direction of better health. I appreciate your prayers and words of encouragement, though, so please comment away. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Blessings,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dawn</span></div>
<br />homeschooldawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13597041122394558244noreply@blogger.com3