Chrysalis Island

Looking forward to ...

2012-01-03T05:05:00.000-08:00

SWIMMING a lot ... we bought a half season pass and discovered it lets us in to 5 local pools as often as we like for the next 4 months. We're all excited. The kids were trying so hard to pin drop to touch the bottom of the deep end today, but I'm not sure if they did it yet. Now if the sun will just get up and shine, we'll be set!

READING the Bible ... I'm using this 'read the Bible in a year' plan, for the first time. I guess I usually read the New Testament several times a year, and favourite other books like Psalms and Esther, but I needed a plan to help me tackle some harder books more systematically. I like how this plan has a different focus every day of the week.

LEARNING. We're exploring some interesting topics this year, including A Trip Around the World, the Human Body (various books, activities and models) and Sword Fighting (the scriptural kind) ... and I always love playing with the kids in Maths, Writing, Science and Art!!

READING some wonderful books together. Little Pilgrim's Progress, The Book of Virtues, and lots of "maybes" which I have to sift through my filter (Philippians 4:8) ... hopefully many beautiful stories, some timed to coincide with studies of particular countries. Plus the usual stacks of maths, science and history books we always seem to gravitate towards. These books all add up to lots of snuggle time ... ahhh, bliss :)

FITNESS ... the kids are keen and we parents also want to improve our fitness, so we're on a mission to build up our stamina, fitness and endurance, to prepare for a few family fun runs and bush walks throughout the year. Hopefully with persistence (and perhaps prayer and antihistamines) my legs will stop becoming so unbearably itchy every time I do more than stroll. We also intend to play tennis more often (like more than twice a year) and go for family bike rides. Last week I went canoeing, which was a fun way to start the year!

BUILDING ... lego, meccano, paddle pop sticks, car tracks, Zhu Zhu pet playgrounds, science kits, old fashioned games like marble mazes, balsa wood toys, real furniture. We're all into it and have many ideas and plans.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS ... repainting, regrouting, replacing some carpet with timber laminate floors, reroofing the cubby house, starting a vegie patch. I can picture it so well, if only it could be done as easily as dreaming about it, but somehow I think it'll take more than a month to finish :(

THE OLYMPIC GAMES. I've written them on our calendar, just in case there was a danger of us missing them. We're pretty excited about watching many of our favourite sports (eg. gymnastics, swimming, diving, equestrian events) and being inspired by Paralympians.

EVENTS and EXCURSIONS ... some are already booked, many more will be added as usual. This is something I really love about home ed., that we can do so many interesting, educational and fun things on a small budget, with minimal hassle and next to no paperwork.

ART, WORD PLAY & MUSIC ... the tools are there, I just have to set them up and go for it. I want to paint a canvas or two, perhaps play with some book ideas and re-learn the keyboard. I can tap out a few tunes (playing by ear) but have forgotten how to read music and play chords.

BLOGGING as a way of making sense and remembering, and in the hope that some of it may be helpful, interesting and encouraging to those who read it.

I hope your year has gotten off to a great start!
What are you looking forward to?

2011 wrap up

2011-12-13T01:51:00.000-08:00

It's Summer here, but you wouldn't know it. It's mostly rainy and cold, but we don't really care much. Life goes on, albeit with less swimming than is typical for December.

We haven't declared the year over yet, though this week we've shifted into holiday mode ... baking, visiting, playing, enjoying the company of those who have finished work and school for the year (as of today, that includes my hubby, hooray!)

I didn't have a big scramble to finish curriculum for the year in order to be ready for the next year or to tick off the current year. We don't care much for school year labels or stopping and starting on particular dates, though we do generally change our pace to be available when friends have free time. I'm always vague about time, days and dates, and even though the calendar says the year is over already, I find it hard to believe ... I feel like its just beginning!

Before I get all philosophical about time, here are some recent happenings and reflections:

* We met Beverley Paine, who in Australia is a home ed pioneer and veteran, ideas person and somewhat of a guru, especially in Natural Learning. She has also perfected the art of inspiring and building up people's confidence.

* Elijah is still enamoured with books about Knights, and has tackled his first few chapter books ... Adventures in Odyssey - Revenge of the Red Knight, a couple of books from the Toby Digz series and totally unrelated Club Penguin choose your own adventure books.

* Jasmine adores ABC Reading Eggs, and manages to pass the quizzes at the end of each map BUT has reached a level that she finds hard to do alone. She refuses to repeat any activities, and insists on continuing on to harder lessons. Her persistence, frustration and desire to read create an interesting tension at times! I try to figure out when to help and when to stay out of the way.

* Life of Fred has been a BIG hit in our home. I've been reading from the first books, Apples, which covers very basic maths, but I didn't want us to miss any of the fun bits and interesting tangents which make the series so appealing (Archimedes for example). I've also just started the 4th book, Dogs, with Elijah, for a bit more substance, but he will also listen in as I keep go through Butterflies and Cats with Jasmine.

* Maths wise, most of the real learning happens incidentally (counting money, measuring, games, travel etc) but for various reasons we choose to use textbooks a few times a week ... Targeting Maths books, and CD rom 'labs' (which are a lot of fun) and Singapore Maths text and workbooks, easy to work with and useful and tolerable. If I needed a program right now, I'd probably buy Go Maths (comprehensive, challenging, fun, relevant), but I just can't justify it with all that we have, and the eclectic mix we have offers the diversity and freedom we seem to need :)

* I finally bit the bullet, though, and bought All About Spelling. We had been 'using' LEM Phonics, but when you have as relaxed a routine as we do, it's not ideal to have a program which needs a regular, solid block of time each day. So far we like AAS a lot. Why? It's quick, easy and fun, and I love that it doesn't zap all the desire to write out of the kids, so they still want to ... Write!!!

* Real writing that they choose to do (sometimes with a gentle nudge) ... lists, journals, copied Bible verses (we call treasures), letters, cards, game clues. For my own inspiration, I love the 'Kid Writing' concept, free ebooks full of tips and ideas at the Nellie Edge website and Nurturing the Write Relationship - Developing a Family Writing Lifestyle and Traditions, by Mary Ann Froehlich (bought through Heart of Wisdom)

* Speaking of Heart of Wisdom, the website and ebooks have been a great source of inspiration and ah-ha moments for me recently. The Bible first approach at the core of it articulates so well what I was trying to figure out this year. I knew what I didn't want, and had a fair idea of what I did want, but the Heart of Wisdom Teaching Approach helped me fill in a few gaps in my understanding and simplify my (very complicated) picture of our ideal homeschool. The free guide to choosing and using resources renewed my confidence in my choices of what to read and not read with the children. I am adopting the HOW concept, but am not following Robin's 4 year plan or using the unit studies. What we are doing, I will write about more next year, as it's a work in progress. In the eyes of the kids, it will flow on well and look similar to this year, but in my head and on paper, it's somewhat tidier :)

I don't have time to write about all the other resources we've loved or abandoned this year. As far as explaining the always changing, always learning way we do things here, Renelle said it better than I can right now. It's all a blur as I'm excited about what's happening now and what's in store. I have rambled today. Hope I haven't put anyone to sleep!

I hope you enjoy this special season with the people you love.

All the best,
Vanessa

Holiday Snaps

2011-11-15T15:29:00.001-08:00

A fortuitous find during the long trip north ... and inside were REAL suits of armour (with real price tags $$$). A certain boy was incredibly excited, even though our stop was brief as we had a ferry to catch.

My island home ... I've been going to Stradbroke Island to my Aunty and Uncle's place since I was a child, and was delighted to finally be able to share it with my family. The island was every bit as beautiful as I remembered.

Our next home was a self contained unit with beach access. The the sky scrapers of the Gold Coast at the far end of the beach, barely visible in the salty haze, could be Paris in a little girl's imagination ;)

None of us minded having this view from our balcony, either.

Moving into Sea World resort was pretty cool because it included unlimited access to wonderful shows like this. We also had a lovely lagoon pool right outside our door, which is good as the room was tiny.

A highlight was when one of the polar bears did lots of backflips in his pool, which we saw from the underwater viewing area. I didn't have a camera on me that day, but he was enormous, pressed up against the glass right in front of us before he pushed off each time!

The kids loved the fairy penguins and each chose a personal favourite ... based of course on the colour of the ID tags!

My favourite place was in the underwater viewing area at Shark Bay. This is the ONLY way I ever want to see sharks, but I do find them fascinating. Late in the day was the best time to see them darting around looking cunning, wild and ready to eat.

We all went on the log ride together once, but only two wanted to repeat the wet and weightless experience.

We ALL loved the gigantic climbing maze at Pirate Cove inside Sea World. There was also a pirate ship ride where dry people could sail and shoot other pirates with water cannons. We must have had lots of enemies because we were absolutely soaked by the end.

We did many other things ... so much fun packed into two weeks away! I might write again later to share some of my reflections on travelling with kids, living in apartments and small rooms, coming home and the scientific results of conducting dietary experiments on small creatures.

Just ducking out for a spot of sunshine

2011-10-18T04:25:00.000-07:00

We're heading north for a couple of weeks, for family fun and 'hopefully' sun.

No, not to the Maldives, but somewhere just as delightful ... photos upon my return, I promise!

I have written a few draft articles lately, but none are ready to post yet, so they'll have to wait. I don't think the blogosphere will crumble due to my short absence :)

Stay well. I look forward to catching up when we return.

Delicious Disasters!

2011-09-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

I love playing in the kitchen, not always following a recipe. Well, I've reached new heights in experimental cooking today!

Jasmine was keen to bake some heart shaped cookies today. We mixed a batch of dough using a recipe found in a little cookbook she has. Satisfied that she was on the right track, I left her to cut out the delicate hearts.

Meanwhile, I set about making a batch of chewy chocolate chip and macadamia (almost gluten free) cookies from a recipe I found on the internet. Elijah helped measure nicely spaced teaspoons of mixture onto the baking trays. In no time at all, they were ready for the oven. As the dough melted, we watched, mesmerised, as the cookies spread and merged into three trays of gigantic cookie monsters. Maybe the cornflour was an important ingredient, but we'd run out. Oh well, at least they looked nicely browned. Still hopeful, I put the trays on the stove top to cool.

Jasmine's hearts were ready to cook. The oven just needed a moment to cool first ...

Having allowed my cookie monsters to cool for a minute, I set about 'trying' to cut and re-home them on the cooling racks. Ha ha ... instead we have two containers of cookie crumbs. One holds cooked but still soft cookie dough. The other holds more biscuit-like crumbs. One baking tray which I experimentally didn't line with baking paper, has, unfortunately danced it's last dance.

Jasmine's lovely hearts cooked in ten minutes, and came out at just the right moment. A quick test proved they were melt-in-your-mouth delicious, crisp and delicate. A quick dust of icing sugar, and they were done. Perfect!

This afternoon I will have to buy a tub of vanilla icecream and a tub of soy icecream. After a short trip home from the shop, it should be soft enough to transform into cookie dough, choc chip and nut icecream dessert. Which we'll eat another day, as we've all eaten way too many experimental sweets today.

Jasmine's biscuits are ready to serve. Splendid and sweet.

Maybe not such a disaster, after all!!

Beat the home ed blue-bugs!!

2011-09-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Lately a lot of home ed mothers, new and old alike, have confessed that they are plagued by the home ed blues, loss of confidence or niggling doubts about what they're doing. It seems to be part of the learning process, leading to change in practice or perspective.

Like sandflies, fleas or mozzies, worries seize any opportunity to nip and nibble, and when they've had a good feast, can leave us feeling rather itchy, uncomfortable and desperate for a remedy.

The impish little mites (aka insecurities) are pretty easy to fend off one by one, but when they attack en masse it can be harder to defend the castle. Here are a few specimens I've come across. In italics are some quick rebuttals to squash the bugs:

Daily Detail Demanders - often doubling as our staunchest supporters, these are well-meaning people who want to know if we've done our schoolwork for the day.
Whilst many days look unimpressive to an outsider, home ed. success is best measured in monthly or termly summaries, when growth and change are more apparent. WE know our days are rich in learning and personal development, and some of it is easy to verbalise. But a lot of it is hard to convey in a brief chat. Store up handy anecdotes so that when the question is asked, you're primed to share the little victories that really matter.

Pesky Perfectionism - bites too often, when we focus on our faults and judge ourselves as imperfect. Indeed, we are! Usually we can handle that truth and see the overall balance. But sometimes our flaws can trick us into thinking that the alternatives (eg. school) are somehow prettier than our best efforts.
Our best efforts ARE enough. Our 'survival mode' efforts can usually still be offered in love, with patience and personalised attention. There may be circumstances which call for change, but generally, we ARE better equipped to nurture our children than the lucky-dip teacher our children may have at school (until the day parents can hand-pick each teacher, and guarantee that the best teacher is going to have a wonderful year, free of disasters and trials).

Acute Questionitis - this often sneaks in when Illness, Depression and Overwhelm visit. Am I doing the right thing for my children? Is our life really as good as I happily tell people in good times? Are the kids truly as blessed and fortunate as they deserve? Would they be better off in school?
To put a bad day, or season, in perspective, just look at how stressed your children are that you haven't had the energy to implement all your wonderful plans. Are they? If they're like mine ... not a care in the world! I'm fortunate to have had the energy to feed them most days, or direct them towards something they can prepare. They have a captive audience, time and ideas galore. They have enough toys and books to sink a ship (though a big cardboard box would trump them all)! My 'bad day' is their opportunity to shine. Hmm ... I'll have to think of a better reason to feel inadequate.

Greener Pastures Syndrome - the familiar fear that our children will miss out on something, like a quirky maths teacher, inspiring art teacher, whizz-bang science program, being in the choir, debating club.
Our kids WILL miss out on some things. There are many things we'll be grateful they missed. But they will also have opportunities that the kids in the pasture next door don't have (like TIME to pursue their interests). They WILL meet exceptional people, of all ages and various talents, and thankfully they'll have more freedom to enjoy special moments with peers and mentors, unhindered by bell times.

Continuous Compulsive Curriculum Design Disorder - knowing that there might be a better resource than the ones you've just bought after years of comparing and critique-reading, and thinking your children's future success and happiness depends on acquiring it.
True, there may be a better resource. There always will be. It may claim to teach something faster or more thoroughly or with more fun. There's no harm buying excellent resources. But what REALLY matters is the way we use what we have ... the very reason we chose to homeschool in the first place ... personalised, relationship based, flexible and responsive guidance. Don't get caught in the trap of spending more time planning, preparing and comparing than doing, playing, loving and being.

WHEW!!!!

There are many tools which help me defeat the little beasties with a good dose of positivity ...
(mostly guaranteed to change the pace and mood of the day, if it's been a dull or doubtful one)

* read extra Bible stories to the kids (they're always saying 'just one more please!')
* dance or paint or run or play with the kids
* have a games day or project day or swim day
* reread a favourite homeschool encouragement book

And here are a few of my favourite online remedies:

Burnout busters at Homeschooling Downunder

Happy to be here with Left to their own devices

Really rich encouragement from Dove's Rest

AussieHomeschool forum my virtual staffroom

Rockpool Homeschool forum another fun group

Overcome adultitis with Kim and Jason

This HAS been a wordy post, sorry! I wrote it to help myself out of a pit. And thankfully it helped. If you've read to the end, I'd love to know what helps you fight off the homeschool blues.
What's your favourite way to get back into the swing of things, to iron out the bugs and get on with the joyful business of raising happy seedlings?

A Delightful Job

2011-09-05T17:28:00.000-07:00

Chain mail can be irritating, but this is a little gem that made me smile. I hope you enjoy it!

A woman, renewing her driver's licence ,
was asked by the woman at Registry to state her occupation.

She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.

'What I mean is, ' explained the woman at Registry,
'do you have a job or are you just a .....?'

'Of course I have a job,' snapped the woman.
'I'm a Mum.'

'We don't list 'Mum' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it,'
Said the recorder emphatically.

I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation.

The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised,
efficient, and possessed of a high sounding title like,
'Official Interrogator' or 'City Registrar.'

'What is your occupation?' she probed.

What made me say it? I do not know.
The words simply popped out.

'I'm a Research Associate in the field of
Child Development and Human Relations.'

The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and
looked up as though she had not heard right.

I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words.

Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written,
in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.

'Might I ask,' said the clerk with new interest,
'just what you do in your field?'

Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice,
I heard myself reply,

'I have a continuing program of research,
(what mother doesn't)

In the laboratory and in the field,
(normally I would have said indoors and out).

I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the whole family) and already have four credits (all daughters).

Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities,
(any mother care to disagree?)

and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it).

But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money.'

There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she
completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career,
I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.

Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model,
(a 6 month old baby) in the child development program,
testing out a new vocal pattern.

I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!

And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than 'just another Mum.' Motherhood!

What a glorious career!

Especially when there's a title on the door.

Does this make grandmothers
'Senior Research associates in the field of Child Development and Human Relations'

And great grandmothers
'Executive Senior Research Associates?

I think so!

I also think it makes Aunts 'Associate Research Assistants.'

Please send this to another Mum, Grandmother, Aunt, and other friends you know.

May your troubles be less, Your blessing be more,
And nothing but happiness come through your door!

Homeschooling Meme

2011-09-05T04:32:00.000-07:00

Renelle from Dove's Rest has tagged me for this meme.
(pronounced /ˈmiːm/; meem, according to Wikipedia ... I didn't know, and since I read the word once a week or so, it was about time I found out!)

It's going around due to the start of the academic year in the Northern Hemisphere. Third Term is kind of the start of the year for us too, in that I usually do my planning and program updates in June, and it tends to be when my children, coincidentally, move onto new levels in any schoolish resources they are using.

I agree with Renelle and Jeanne that the idea of giving ONE answer to each question is simply ridiculous and quite impossible! Here goes!

1. One homeschooling book you have enjoyed:
I derive great comfort and encouragement from these two books, which I seem to reread every year:

The Well-Adjusted Child: The Social Benefits of Homeschooling, by Rachel Gathercole
A thorough treatment of the socialisation question, and full of anecdotes from real parents and children.

The Little Book of Big Reasons to Homeschool, by David and Kim d'Escoto
Outlines the benefits to body, mind and soul, using many scriptures and other quotes to help answer common 'Why Homeschool' questions.

2. One resource you wouldn't be without:

ABC Reading Eggs, Targeting Maths CD Roms, ABC Schools TV
The local libraries, and many books from SO many sources!!
Home Ed communities, both local and online

3. One resource you wish you had never bought:

Hard to say because I forget easily ... ummm ... no regrets really. If I think of one I'll come back to add it.

4. One resource you enjoyed last year:

The Australian Book Traveller, from Homeschooling Downunder
We LOVED "The Australia Book", which built on what the kids had learned in books we previously read. Since then, we have since been taking the whole journey very slowly, enjoying rabbit trails which appeal to us. The free "Wombat Stew" unit inspired a lovely few months of learning all about Australian animals, using picture books we owned and borrowed, and of course nature!

5. One resource you will be using next year:

Lots of World geography and culture books. Some titles Sonlight recommends, which I've bought second hand, many books from the library ... maybe tied together using Galloping the Globe.
I've heard good and bad about it ... do you have anything to add for or against GtG??

We'll continue Real Science 4 Kids. So far I've used the digital download version of Chemistry, and we're loving it.

6. One resource you would like to buy:

Oh, you know, not much. Just a large block of land and a MASSIVE shed, to deck out with kid's gymnasium, music studio, art and science lab, library and general space to play, create and have fun!

Know anyone offering a 95% discount for homeschoolers?

7. One resource you wish existed:

A time control device, so that we can fit in all the things we wish to do each day. And the energy to put dreams into action.

Renelle: I have a shocking confession ... I don't know about Dr Who's Tardis ... would it satisfy this wish?

8. One homeschool catalogue/magazine you enjoy reading:

The Sonlight catalogue ... don't laugh!

It satisfies the teacher and resource-researcher in me. Even though we don't follow any particular curriculum, haven't purchased anything from them directly, and what we do is VERY relaxed. I just enjoy having so many resources listed and compared in one place. It has helped with some decisions.

9. One homeschooling website you use regularly:

Aussie Homeschool

10. Tag six other homeschoolers:

I'm taking the easy option. I can't keep up with who has and hasn't yet been tagged to join in ... so if you read this, and would like to join in, please leave a link to your blog in the comments and jump onboard!

P.S. Please excuse the spaced out format of this post ... I think I need to revise some settings :)

Lively and Learning

2011-08-25T02:05:00.000-07:00

We're out of hibernation. Hello!! It sure feels good to see the sun and feel it's warmth, and the air is full of wonderful Spring fragrance and freshness. Goodbye cold, sick, damp Winter!
Sorry friends who love Winter ... I know it has a good side :)

Anyway, while we were sleeping, a few things happened:

* We had our registration meeting for Jasmine. It went well. The inspector was pretty new to home ed., but very interested and encouraging, and gave lots of positive feedback. He only saw about 10% of what I could have showed him, and in the final few minutes of his visit he actually got to see the imaginary 6yr old we were discussing! The little person who had been hiding and scowling and scurrying away when called, finally responded to bribery and upside-down tickles, to show that she does indeed exist and is a perfect specimen of a mischievous, healthy and well-loved child. Whew!

* Prior to the meeting, I did my usual voracious reading, curriculum research and intense planning. Of course it's all theoretical, and subject to change. But the result is a long term and short term plan I'm very happy with. It reflects our tidal, eclectic style and my need to be prepared yet flexible. More on the specifics another day.

* Learning. Pretty sporadic and spontaneous, but enough to keep us all happy. We're loving Real Science 4 Kids, and reading many books for the various parts of HSIE. Maths and Literacy are going really well ... I'll write a separate post about the resources we're using.

* Our 'good days' in Winter were mostly spent out with friends, at parks or excursions, or catching up on the never-ending housework. The 'bad days' weren't so bad, considering we have the freedom to stay home in comfort, snuggle up and read a ton of books together. Elijah and Jasmine play happily together 95% of the time, so I just let them go with their momentum a lot of days, and enjoy watching the adventures unfold. It's messy at times, but they're generally helpful enough to more than make up for that.

* Soccer and gymnastics have been terrific fun. We're excited that soon it will be warm enough to splash at the beach, surf and swim again.

* A new neighbourhood 'gaggle of girls' has erupted, and suddenly we have 6 little girls playing on bikes and scooters or in each other's homes, any time any of them are free. Jasmine is in social heaven, and Elijah pretends to complain sometimes, but always has a lot of fun with them. Having been a really quiet street, it's been a delightful change!

I have a list of more interesting, catch-up posts to write soon, including features and photos of some special projects. If you haven't done so yet, please drop in and introduce yourself so I know who I'm writing for :)

Overcoming Winteritis

2011-06-01T04:54:00.000-07:00

I haven't published a post for ages, nor commented much lately. Sorry for being distant. I've been feeling awkward and illiterate. When I speak or write, often I can't express what I'm thinking. I'm restless and overwhelmed and uncomfortable and self conscious. It's just Winteritis again. It takes all my energy to resist hibernating. I feel deeply the pain of people close to me who are really hurting at the moment. I'm sick and cold and tired and sad, and for no good reason ... I have exactly the life I want (minus tropical climate and ocean views), and everything to be glad about!

However, I refuse to let the drop in temperature rob me entirely of my joy!
So, to get the ball rolling again ... some of the wonderful things happening here are:

* Soccer, Gymnastics, Princess Ballet, Woodwork lessons, Sunday School & lots of play dates and family visits. A few birthdays and holidays coming up this month, too!

* A lovely, leisurely book tour using "The Australian Book Traveller". It's taken us nearly 2 terms just to do 'The Australia Book' and 'Wombat Stew', because we keep adding interesting books, taking time out to follow tangents and research various aspects of Australian geography and wildlife. We're VERY excited to be moving on to the next stage of the trip this week (partly because the title includes the word 'spear')!

* Bible stories, Character studies, and a steady stream of books from the library and the postie keep us snuggled up often and give us lots of fresh ideas to think and dream about.

* I'm getting more organised in the kitchen, putting a weekly menu on the fridge ... stops me worrying about what to cook each day and whether I have the ingredients. Dinners are planned but flexible, and I write ideas for lunches, snacks and fruit, to remind me what's available. It also means I shop less often and therefore spend less. I shop at home first, and use what we have, which means less wastage too.

* Kids literacy ... both children are taking off and it's so exciting to see! They're excited too, keen for any hints I can give them, and moving quickly through Reading Eggs. They're more confidently having a go at slightly more independent writing. I must tell you about their folders and ladders sometime.

* I have more peace about the balance of work & leisure, planned & spontaneous, challenging & easy ... and finally a plan I'm happy with for the next year or two in regards to the planned curriculum side of things (always flexible of course, but it is a relief to stop searching for a while).

* Pete has built most of the shelves I designed for the dining/ sun/ everything room, and it's immensely satisfying to organise and find homes for our most frequently used resources. Some smaller units and a desk are still in progress which will bring it all together, and then I have to learn how to paint a kind of lime wash finish. Photos in a month or two :)

I'm thankful for the safe, peaceful family I've been blessed with. I'm glad that my peace comes from the Lord, and I'm not at the mercy of my emotions and the troubles and choices of other people. I'm encouraged by my online friends, many of whom home school, who generously share their ideas and lives, and by doing so provide a lovely, supportive community.

Thanks for sticking by me through my quiet times!

Living Maths - Part One

2011-04-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE maths!

Here are a few more confessions to set the scene:

* I'm interested in metacognition, patterns, and the links between maths, science and art.
* I like order but am often disorganised, with many ideas and projects buzzing around at once.
* I love imagining creative ways to do things.
* My favourite part of teaching is seeing someone's eyes light up when they are inspired and their mind is humming with connections and understandings.

Steps and Stages ...

Since we started home ed., I've often wondered which maths curriculum would suit us now and into the future. My kids are quite maths-literate, and accelerated themselves through much of K-1 maths before school age. There are gaps of course ... not many people learn neatly according to a schedule! And we have had great chunks of time spent on Natural Learning, which helps keep things fresh and student-focused.

I was slightly worried, as in terms of number facts, Elijah has remained at a Year 2 level for 2 years. But I can see some important connections happening now, and am seeing evidence that he's in another phase of rapid development. For example, Elijah doesn't have quick recall of all addition facts to 20 and can't be bothered with learning to tell the time properly, beyond the hour and half hour. His writing is way behind his comprehension, so I've often acted as his scribe. But he knows how to work out simple percentages (eg. 20% of 1000 or 50% of 40), has a good grasp of some fractions, can count by 2's, 5's, 10's, and quickly understands any new concept we think to introduce. I have been glad to slow down anyway, not wishing to hasten his acceleration unless it's driven by his own interest and readiness.

The Resources Dilemma ...

My main problem is that we're spoiled for choice! I've examined endless reviews, samples, placement tests and articles about all kinds of maths resources. Some programs which partly suit my preferences include Singapore, MEP, Saxon, Targeting Maths and Go Maths. They all seem excellent. But I am never content, so haven't ordered a complete program. Part of me wanted to find an online solution, but I wasn't fussed with the samples of Teaching Textbooks. Would Elijah have to prove competence to gain entry to EPGY Grade 3-4, and would it be overly expensive?

Thus far in Maths ...

I've been using Singapore Maths Textbook 2A with Elijah (no workbooks, just using it as a reader and doing the exercises orally). I also printed and had bound MEP Maths 2A for him. Both children have several Yr 1 or 2 textbooks to choose from when they are inclined to do bookwork (for Jasmine, this urge occurs several times a week, for Elijah it's only when I insist) ... Rigby, Maths Plus, Easy Learn Maths, Boomerang and Step Ahead. Elijah likes the interaction of doing MEP lessons with me, but we don't formally 'do' maths often enough to use MEP properly ... for days we'll play with numbers and ideas in other ways, so that each time we go back to bookwork, he's progressed beyond the lesson we're up to. I've never stuck rigidly to any textbooks, skipping pages which seem boring, redundant or repetitious. So perhaps we've been too light on with number drills. Instead we do sums at the dinner table, counting rhymes in the car.

Whilst some maths programs incorporate a lot of hands on activities, real life applications and motivations, I still find them a bit stifling. Jasmine likes to do bookwork, but she enjoys the other things we do too. Elijah definitely prefers learning through stories and conversations, shows, computer games, board games and puzzles. We've used such a diverse range of resources, it's always a challenge to record them and make sense of the path we've taken.

Ideas ...

I've been toying with the idea of several maths lessons each week being devoted to fun and inspiring ideas, such as looking at M.C. Escher, magic squares, The Golden Section, Bible numerics. And games. And hands on, real life problem solving. Doesn't leave much room for drills and paperwork though. Do we really need them? Do I need a 'spine' at all or can we be trusted to cover the 'basics' in unconventional ways? Will my children be able to fit in if they ever need to go to school?

I'm coming to terms with all these questions, and the answer seems to be:

Living Maths ...

Our best 'lessons' over the years have been experiences such as making a 3D graph of matchbox cars, constructing polyhedra using straws and pipecleaners, counting money as Elijah saved for an electric drum kit, taking measurements for furniture designs, adjusting recipe quantities.

I'm going to TRY to stop looking at Maths Curriculums, and focus more on just 3 factors:
- being more creative and diligent in RECORDING the incidental maths the kids do in life and play
- identifying WHAT my children are ready to learn or do next
- finding interesting printables, stories and manipulatives to ensure they have FUN experiences to gain that knowledge.

I want our maths 'lessons' from now on to be memorable, inspiring, lively, exciting, challenging and real. I intend to read more on Living Maths and Charlotte Mason and Unschooling websites. I am excited about diving deeper into Living Maths. I'm keen to list the many ways MATHS happens in my home, and I think articulating what we unconsciously do will help me let go of my obsession with comparing curriculums!

I already have some great resources, and know of a few more I'd like ... I'm bursting to write about them all, but will have to save that challenge for another day. I have bookmarked some helpful and inspiring websites, and will also list these and share some links and ideas in Part Two.

If you have any tips to share about studying, doing or recording LIVING MATHS, please share them!

My Book Feast

2011-03-15T17:27:00.000-07:00

Last week was one of those weeks when I devoured stories every spare moment. Not that there were many spare moments, with planned and impromptu guests (including a few overnight), a home ed. social day, church sand modelling activity, woodwork lessons, soccer training, Spring cleaning (even though it's Autumn), and we helped a family move house. We started building our new dining/ activity room shelves too!

So can you see why I needed to read whenever there was a moment to escape? Some people (including my husband) would say it's crazy to read so much at such a busy time, and that it'd be better to get a proper sleep. They're kind of right, but I find reading is one of the most relaxing ways to restore my energy.

Here's a sneak peek at some of the books I've enjoyed in the last ten days:

I also read "The Whistling Season" by Ivan Doig, and perhaps others I returned to the library before I took these photos. Sorry I don't have time to write reviews of the novels. As for what I read with the children, that'll have to wait for another post.

I'm quite satisfied now. Like feasting on chocolate, I enjoyed this delicious treat, but feel I've had my fill of fiction for now. I 'm happily back into to my normal diet of dreaming up fun ways to learn, reading the Bible, catching up on home ed admin and writing here!

Delightful days

2011-02-27T19:09:00.000-08:00

We're really appreciating the freedom we have, having had a taste of being part of the system. What a wonderful life!

I always enjoy reading 'typical day' messages written by home ed. families. They are hard to write and impossible to keep short! A few friends have recently had a go at it, trying to share the essence of their days, and I felt it was about time for me to jot down what we've been up to. We have very few typical days, so my version is more of an overview of some of our usual activities ...

Elijah's recent interests have included:

- counting his money to compare it to the price of whatever he is saving for ... last month, after 2 years saving, he reached his goal and bought an electric drum kit. He also likes being the banker in Monopoly.

- playing instruments ... he's never had a lesson, but does amazing things with drums and guitar (playing with both since a toddler), adding words to songs he knows or makes up.

- 'reading' an endless supply of non fiction history books, mostly about Knights, sometimes a book about Vikings or Warriors, the Roman Army or other parts of history. Mostly I think he studies the pictures and labelled diagrams. He looks at books for several hours most days, on top of our time spent reading together, and is eager to be able to read more for himself so that he won't have to rely on me so much (distracted by cleaning, cooking, phone and computer too often).

- Superdad helped Elijah make a bow and arrow from materials in the bush across the road (and string).

- writing in his self-started 'future book' ... basically planning fun jobs for when he grows up. So far he has designed a paintball army game centre (asked me to help find camo clothing designs for the teams on the internet), and a Knights Land (role play for grown ups) with lists of horses, equipment, costumes etc. and a birds eye map of the place. Elijah usually asks me to write it for him, either on the whiteboard to copy, or in his book to trace.

- writing in his diary ... self-directed but often asks us to spell words.

- building a castle using a kit with plaster of paris bricks he makes using a rubber mould. Also still spends a lot of time building and destroying lego models, and talking to us about what he has made ... the talk continues even without an audience.

- watching science, geography and history shows on ABC 1 and the internet (Bill Nye), and DVDs such as Leyland Brothers, Grainger's World Australia, and other nature shows either on TV or from the library.

Jasmine loves:

- colouring in - from a box of colouring books (fairies, Princesses, Bible stories) and sometimes pictures we search the internet to find together (eg. she'll say "I want a water fairy).

- craft - mosaic sticker pictures (from a few sets rec'd as gifts), bead necklaces and bracelets

- books about fairies and princesses (mostly Rainbow Magic and The Tiara Club series) ... we read her 3-4 chapter books most weeks, plus picture books she owns (like a Tinkerbell series) and borrows. As a welcome change from the predictable stories, we found a delightful library book called 'Fairy Foals' which both kids are enjoying ... very arty and imaginative.

- writing - a variety of handwriting books, exercise books for sentences and stories, and her own private journals, some locked.

- Reading Eggs - we had a break for a few months, and Jasmine is glad I renewed our subscription. The break was good as she is now ready for the lessons she had reached but was finding too hard last year. 100% on today's Map 6 quiz!

- other computer activities - Targeting Maths Lab 1 CD-rom, Tux Paint, various games we find online, and just plain typing.

- listening to music and singing along with toy microphone - Delta Goodrem, Jack Johnson, lots of Sunday school CDs, Australian songs etc.

- playing her guitar or violin ... no lessons, just self-taught and improvised. I LOVE Jasmine's voice and her way of making up songs as she goes, but I have to be careful as she doesn't like to be observed or adored TOO much!

- games (like Monopoly Jnr, Mastermind, Jenga, snap, Uno) and puzzles, dolls of many kinds, Dora lego, listening to stories.

- people ... always making plans to see her friends, but happiest when it's not in a large group :)

Activities I've strewn/ inspired/ suggested, which have been very well received this year:

- a new set of watercolours and art book each. The kids use these freely several times a week and it's always a delight to watch them at work.

- Australian studies - this mostly involves reading to the children, loosely guided by The Australian Book Traveller. So far we've read 2/3 of The Australia Book (Eve Pownell), and it will be a slow but deeper journey, as I keep finding extra wonderful books to enjoy together; like "Lost" a survival story about 3 children lost in the Australian bush in 1860's. Each chapter is followed by (genuinely) interesting facts about life back then, such as toys, homes, food, clothing. The kids (especially E.) are very interested in Captain Cook's journey, early white settlement and how it impacted on Aborigines, gold rush, explorers, bushrangers etc. and how things have changed over time.

- most days we read together a chapter from a Bible story book (currently from a huge, old but well written, 10 book series by Arthur Maxwell)

- we're using phonics (mostly LEM, a bit of Jolly Phonics and Reading Eggs) to fill in gaps to help both kids read and write more confidently. We use a variety of methods to keep us all interested! Elijah is also working through Sounds Right, Read, Write Book 3.

- soon Elijah will start in the local soccer team, and Jasmine will again do home ed. gymnastics.

- Nature Studies ... we've read a little of The Wonderland of Nature, complemented by Bill Nye science clips & Magic School Bus books/ shows, and serendipitous sightings around home. Mostly though, we're on an Australian animals tangent.

- most of our maths is invisible, just part of life and fun, but they both do a small amount of textbook or practical work to ensure me that their skills are recorded and progressing. This is negotiable, in terms of when and where, what (limiting the boring, pointless or tedious), how (practical, visual eg. books and DVD's, answers for textbooks can be oral, written or scribed by me) and we're open to creative interpretation and wandering off the track onto more interesting tangents.

And ...

The kids also spend heaps of time on the trampoline, bikes, at various pools and beaches, visiting friends and relatives, building cubbies with furniture and cushions and sheets. They love cooking and watching cooking shows, helping Pete in the yard, sometimes doing jobs inside to be helpful or sometimes for extra money.

Recent requests of things the kids WANT to do, some of which I'll try to arrange in coming months:

- woodwork (hooray, classes start next week!!)

- sewing ... with my machine, needlework and handmade toys ... mostly inspired by pictures they've seen in books

- ice skating (Jasmine) and ice hockey (Elijah) ... perhaps a one off visit will have to do for now, as they also want:

- tennis lessons (Jasmine), violin lessons (Jasmine) and drum lessons (Elijah)

- Elijah wants to make real medieval and Roman empire spears, shields, costumes, chain-mail suits, helmets, swords etc, preferably after researching the real materials they should be made from!

- the kids and I want to learn more about Bush Tucker, and edible plants we might find in real life.

Our weeks are full of fun and learning, only a fraction of it planned. So far today we've had a productive morning of reading, writing and spelling. Oh, and I did housework while the kids watched school TV shows like Science Clips and Backyard Science. We went to the shops, then decided to watch a Barbie Rapunzel DVD during lunch. Soon we'll read together, play outside and sort out clothes which should go to the op shop. I have to go out again later, while Elijah and Jasmine play or go swimming with Daddy. The kids asked to do maths after dinner today. It seems we all like to mix up the expected order of things a little!

A wild ride!

2011-02-14T18:57:00.000-08:00

We decided to ride a roller coaster, knowing it would be fast and possibly dangerous. We almost fell out on some of the loops and got jolted on the corners. It seemed like it would never end, but finally we cruised into the exit tunnel. We limped away, but can now look up at the ride and say we survived. Most families have no choice but to ride this roller coaster every day. For some it's a nightmare, for others it's comfortable, thrilling, even fun. I'm just glad we are free to choose a different ride!

I know I haven't written enough about what's been happening here lately ... it's been too crazy to put in words. I'll try and bring you up to speed.

Late last year Jasmine started wishing fervently to try school, and after prayer and thought over the break, we decided to give it a go. We enrolled her at the Public School near our place, where we knew nobody but had heard only good reports. Despite it being her own wish to go, it's been tough for Jasmine, and she's made that very clear with tantrums and daily changes of heart. In just 7 days she was late 3 times and totally missed 1 day because she carried on for so long that I wouldn't let her go (and wasn't fit to take her anyway after weathering the storm). Twice her teachers had to take a kicking and screaming child from my arms, and I had to leave and hide around a corner until I knew she'd settled. Things improved when Jasmine said she wanted me to drop her off and sneak away (previously hard to do, with her climbing me like a tree). I spent some days happily teaching Elijah, and a few crying and sick with the stress of the morning.

Our hearts broke as we pick up the pieces each afternoon. Jasi said the best thing was the work (basic phonics she already knows, and lots of colouring in). On day two, she started sadly confessing that her new friend had decided to not be her friend anymore, and was telling other kids to leave her out as well. The teacher said she'd help Jasi make new friends, but observed that she doesn't initiate friendship or follow when the group moves on.

Even so, she's done so much more than we knew she could. Simple things like asking for an iceblock at the canteen, chatting with the teacher for a literacy assessment. She was disappointed that they didn't do maths (though maybe they did, but it wasn't what Jasi expected). We're proud of her courage in just giving it a go.

But we decided enough was enough ... I couldn't handle the tension and trauma, and didn't see that any good could come of continuing. Jasi wanted to finish this week, but it was sealed for me when the teacher lectured me yesterday for bringing Jasmine late, saying it wasn't good enough and we'd have to get our act together and stop messing around (basically). She repeated this when Mum picked up Jasmine in the afternoon (I was too sick with anxiety to go in) ... thankfully I'd typed a letter for Mum to deliver, saying thanks and sorry to the teacher, and informing her that we'd be notifying the Principal of our intention to resume home education today.

I was keen to exit gracefully, and hope the carefully written letters to the teacher and Principal will allow us all to end on a positive note. Now we can get on with our lives without school, and I can salvage what's left of my dignity.

I am SOOOO relieved. Jasmine is too. She cried for half an hour yesterday when I told her she wouldn't be going back to school, then bounced back to being a free and happy girl again, grinning and excited about what we'll be doing together. It is the same relief she expressed when we told her she could leave her stifling and boring ballet class a year ago.

Why did we let our 5 year old daughter enrol in Kindergarten at the local Public School?

Because we thought it was harmless to let her try Kindergarten. Because I thought 5 year olds would be kinder and easier to befriend than older children in years to come. Because we could always return to homeschooling, anytime we wanted, and just treat this as an innocent experiment.

Why are we letting her, after 7 days, return to home schooling?

Because we can. Because I love my daughter and her turmoil each day tortured me, to the point where I felt physical pain. Because we believe home ed. suits our children and love tailoring each day to them. Because home schooling allows us to raise our children the way we believe God wants us to. Because of the scratchy uniform and the unkindness of mean girls. Because I don't believe in school enough to force her to go again and again when she's determined not to anymore. Because we ALL need to have some stability and continuity. Because we want to get on with real life and learning, not playing the school game.

Was it worth it?

I felt like an incompetent Mum, an unprofessional teacher, inconsistent and too easily influenced by my daughter's fluctuating moods, wishes, strength and vulnerability. We didn't last the term, as we'd planned to. I got in trouble ... I've always hated confrontation and conflict. The teacher spoke down to my daughter. She won't have the chance to do that again.

BUT on the bright side, Jasmine's curiosity has been satisfied. She is now keen to have a wonderful year of home ed., instead of feeling deprived and controlled. We respected her wish to explore. We had an intense two weeks, difficult in many ways, but have emerged with our love and respect for each other intact and strengthened. I have learned more about Jasmine's character, learning style and inner strength, and can use this to be a better parent and teacher for her.

Onwards and upwards! We have had a lot of fun today, together, and the future looks bright. It'll probably be easier to write about too!!

If the shoe fits ...

2011-01-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

These, we shall call Wammy Shoes, aren't they fun and frivolous!?
Jasmine made them all by herself, and they match her recent 'fairy' phase just beautifully!

Wammy is a wonderful construction set, which I hadn't heard of until Jasmine received a box as a gift. It is so versatile and fun to use, and I find making a Wammy ball quite satisfying too!

_______________________________

These are the shoes Jasmine will be wearing in a couple of weeks. No prizes for guessing where she'll wear them! She's incredibly excited about venturing out in them.

I'm keeping Jasi's home ed. things handy as usual, for her to use after school, and so that she knows her place here is ready when she is. If she comes back to home schooling after a term, we'll consider Kindergarten her first excursion, adventure or 'subject' for the year. Jasmine will probably enjoy all the routines, crafts, and pleasing the teacher. I'm glad she is self-motivated and choosing to step out of her comfort zone. She is a study in contrasts, easily switching between confidence and clinginess, competence and neediness.

It will be interesting to see how things unfold this year! I'm nervous about how Jasi will manage her physical sensitivities and fussiness, which in familiar company can lead to meltdowns. I have to trust the Lord to guide us in supporting her, trust the staff to treat her with care, and trust Jasmine to handle the challenges she faces.

_______________________________

Elijah is happy with the plan, aside from the early morning walks to take Jasmine to school. I'll write about our adjusted home ed. plans another day. He says "If she goes to school I'll be able to continue my research without Jasmine's constant interruptions." Yikes, not at all self centred! He told my mum that he and I will be able to go out to restaurants for lunch, because he likes seafood and Jasmine isn't so adventurous with food. Hmmm, perhaps a sushi cafe, Sunshine!

Infinity Elephants

2011-01-18T13:38:00.000-08:00

Sue often shares links to exciting mathematical wonders on her blog, Math Mama Writes.

Brain food!

2011-01-17T03:05:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about the posters I just printed from this website:

http://thinkzone.wlonk.com/

Now the kids may not be ready for all of them this year, but I am!!
Does anyone else LOVE this kind of thing?

Healed at camp

2011-01-10T14:20:00.000-08:00

We're back from Christmas camp, which was amazing! It always is, but this time I was doubly blessed.

It seems like ancient history now, but if I think hard I can remember the debilitating exhaustion, crazy hormones, roller-coaster moods and food intolerances. If I ate bread (or anything containing much gluten) I needed a sleep to recover. If I had more than a hint of any dairy product, I had awful pains and felt very unwell. It was very real.

Going to a fully catered camp, I had a choice ... do I put those food intolerances on the form (there was provision for this, and others wisely did so), or do I hand it over to the Lord?

I decided to trust the Lord to provide whatever I needed. Partly because I didn't want to 'own' this disease, and be owned by it, spending all my time worrying about what I should or shouldn't eat yet still expecting to feel tired, moody and sick. Mostly, because I wanted God to have the glory, rather than draw attention to my needs. The worst case scenario would be I'd feel sick, and would ask the other campers (all Spirit-filled Christians) to pray for me. A win-win situation. Perhaps I was too tired from being unwell for so long, that I didn't waste my energy worrying about "what if".

So, I ate the meals provided. Cheesy lasagne, daily bacon and eggs on toast, salad wraps, pudding and icecream, potato bake, apple strudel, pancakes, chocolate. Yum! And not once did I feel sick!! I had abundant energy and was able to just get on with all there was to do. Prayer meetings, kids activities, concert nights, board games, beach afternoons, tennis, morning meetings (we studied Hebrews 6), just chatting, sharing our time and testimonies. It was a relaxing, refreshing week.

I must admit, camp was easier once I stopped trying to get the kids to sleep at a reasonable hour ... that's hard enough even at home. Hour long audio books and peaceful music just couldn't compete with their excitement, the distraction of hearing kids scootering past, and their determination not to miss anything. The last few nights of camp the kids stayed awake until 11 or 12pm, playing cards or jumping on the trampoline. A few power-naps in the car (on short trips to the shop or a good fishing spot) helped restore their (and therefore, our) sanity!

My health started to improve the week before Christmas, about the time I handed the problem over the the Lord and decided to go with the flow. I can't imagine how I would have managed to enjoy the family gatherings and prepare for camp otherwise (even with Pete's help ... and he is amazingly helpful!) Since returning home I have continued to feel fine, only feeling the way anyone would after eating too much (we had family gatherings this week involving pizza one day, hamburgers and chips the next ... and those hot, crunchy chips were way too good!) I still prefer fruit, stir fries, rice and water, but it's terrific to be free to choose them.

Whether my healing is complete, or was a temporary reprieve to allow us to enjoy a special time of fellowship and family, I don't know. I am just so thankful, and glad to be able to share this testimony of how good God is. At our Revival Fellowship meetings, there are opportunities for people to share testimonies, about salvation, or of God working in our lives. At the end of camp when I shared this testimony, the cook (a good friend) said "Ah, so that's why you looked warily at the food I was serving!"

Life back home is crazier than ever. Pete has done at least 10 loads of washing since camp! We've assembled a trampoline, basketball hoop and lots of Lego kits. Elijah's been sick but seems better today. Jasi's had her share of dramas too, she's a delight but very challenging! We may be going away again this week. As for home ed., there are still decisions to be made and plans to tweak. I don't know what the year will look like yet, but I'm excited about the possibilities.

Can you tell I'm thrilled to have abundant energy again?!? Praise the Lord!

Christmas greetings

2010-12-22T04:29:00.000-08:00

This year my clever Mum made a beautiful advent calendar for us. It's a quilted wall hanging, over a metre tall, and is so lovely! Each pocket contains 2 treasures, such as ornaments, stickers, chocolate or candy canes. The children take turns unbuttoning a pocket each day. Each button is special too, I love the details. Elijah opens the even numbers (as he's 6), Jasi the odds (as she's 5).

Don't get me started on all the maths the children have done with this calendar, just as they chat ... it's brilliant!

We will be away on and off for the next few weeks. We'll have Christmas morning at home, just us four. Lunch with Pete's huge family, afternoon and dinner at Mum's with our growing family, then traveling early on Boxing Day, stopping for lunch with my Dad, E. (his wife), Popo (E.'s mum) & my Nanna (the kids call her Oma) on our way south. Nanna will be giving the children custom made clogs, to paint and enjoy their Dutch heritage. I'll post some pics when we decorate them.

We're very excited about Christmas camp, where we'll feast on fellowship, daily prayer meetings, a study of Hebrews 6, hear lots of testimonies of what the Lord has been doing in people's lives. I guess we'll also enjoy the catered meals, living in a bunk cabin, watching the kids play freely with their friends, and walking down to the beach each day. It's a hard life!

So far, we're half packed. I've borrowed a stack of audio books from the library, to help the time in the car pass peacefully and pleasurably. The kids will also each receive a new CD before the trip, to add to the music collection. I can't wait to get going and start listening!!

Pete starts his holidays tomorrow afternoon, and I will take a break from the computer whilst he's with us (for three weeks, hooray!!) Well, I might drop in occasionally.

Wishing you all ....

* A delightful Christmas, hopefully spent with the people you love.

* Safe travels ... and for some lucky stars, happy cruising and flying!!

* A very happy, healthy, fun year in 2011.

Love,

Vanessa

Kindergarten questions

2010-12-20T04:56:00.000-08:00

My darling daughter wants to try Kindergarten next year. She told me tonight in bed, with lots of questions and bright-eyed nervous excitement. Of course, we parents will take our time and decide. In the meantime the whim may pass, not to be mentioned again, or Jasi may change her mind when she weighs up the options.

The conversation went something like this:

J: Mummy, I want to see my friends more often.
V: Sure, we can see your friends more often. We can invite (list of friends) over more.
J: But I want to see the same friends. Is (home ed. friend) going to my school next year?
V: No, she's going to another school, too far away from here. We can't take you there. We don't know anyone at your school yet, but you would meet other girls and make new friends. Elijah and I would take you there to meet your teacher and friends, and we'd kiss you and wave goodbye ...
J: And hug!
V: And pick you up in the afternoon.

Jasmine pauses for a moment, thinking, grinning. Then more questions flow:

J: Is gymnastics on while I'm at school?
V: Yes.
J: Do they do tennis at school?
V: No, you could do that after school.
J: Do I go there all day? Lots of days? And you ring the school if I'm sick.
V: Yes, but you don't get sick very often.
J: What do they do in Kindergarten?
V: Well, they write and do craft, some maths, games, the teacher reads a lot of stories, there's music and dancing, sport, art ... (J is grinning again). Does that sound good to you? (J nods).
V: We do those things at our homeschool too, you know. We'll do writing, and read stories, lots of games, maths, science, history, lots of art ...
J: That's boring.

Then without wanting to burst her bubble, I thought some reality checks were important, such as:

V: You know the uniform is red and green (J. is VERY particular about what she'll wear, and free-choice is something she's always loved about home schooling) ... but that's ok, bright red suits you well.
J: Will people think I look silly?
V: No, all the children wear the same thing. You'd be fine.

And so it went on. This is my lovely girl who often blushes and turns away from people (even those we know very well, like close relatives and church friends she's seen weekly her whole life!!). She wants to go and meet new teachers and friends. IF we agree, and IF she decides to try it, I'm sure she'll be fine. She's ok with Sunday school teachers after the first quiet 5 minutes. She wants to try it for a day, but I said since we'd have to buy a uniform, perhaps a month would be more reasonable.

She informed me a few times during the chat that she hadn't decided yet. I reminded her that Daddy and I would make the decision. Of course what she wants is important to us. We always thought our kids 'might' want to try school at some point, especially Jasi as she didn't try preschool (she wanted to in Term 4, but when I finally looked there were no vacancies anywhere for months) ... and Kindy seems like a kind time to try it in our opinion, mostly fun and supportive and free of pressure.

As I tried to persuade her to finally get some sleep, she informed me that she'd decided ... she wrote in large, capital letters in the air I = S (I equals S, for school, I eventually understood).

We'll see what the coming days and weeks bring. We'll talk and pray about what's best for Jasi. I think perhaps that she needs this curiosity satisfied. We'll know if she brings up the subject again. There's a real possibility she'll love school ... she likes doing work and would probably be one of those children who adores her teacher. I expect she'll be good as gold there, no sign of wild emotions we see at home. I've heard the local public school is one of the best around here, but I've never seen inside the gates or met the teachers. I'm as new as Jasi.

I'm not totally against school, if it's right for any particular child or at some time. I just love home ed. for the freedom, opportunities, family-friendliness, uninterrupted learning and respect of individuality. If this interest lasts a week or a few years, only time will tell.

Elijah, on the other hand, is still very excited about homeschooling, looking forward to all that we've planned for next year and all the spontaneous free fun we have in between. No way would he want it interrupted by school! Tonight he was pleading with me "Can we do schoolwork tomorrow, even though it's the holidays?" He's still obsessed with Knights, and brandishing Volume 4 of our Kingfisher Illustrated History of the World, he informed me that tomorrow he wants to "study the armor and weapons that Knights use for jousting." Umm, ok.

IF we do the school experiment, I have no idea how to actually go about it. I'm pretty naive considering I'm a teacher. I've just never thought about that side of things. And I didn't really expect to, even though schools are one of the resources available to help us educate our children. Would the school allow Elijah to be with me if I want to help with reading groups?

If we DON'T, I wonder how we'll juggle the demands of a sociable and demanding 5 with the academic appetite of a suddenly studious 6.

Stay tuned!

P.S. I've had a few much better days this week. Today I tackled a huge amount of housework, cooking and conversation without collapsing. Thanks for the kind comments on my other recent posts, I really love reading those messages!

Lots happening

2010-12-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling odd at the moment ... my mind is all over the place, and my body is pretty much on strike. I've had more tests, and more are to come, but there is no definite diagnosis or easy fix. Even though Christmas is food season, I'll be more diligent about following the advice in Dr Sandra Cabot's books (eg. liver cleansing, thyroid problems solved) to restore balance and energy. And more importantly, I'm praying for the Lord's healing, as only He knows what's wrong.

I had wanted to continue school work up to Christmas, especially phonics, maths and projects, since we were on a roll after a pretty casual year. But I'm barely coping with each day without the added guilt of only doing a fraction of what I plan. There's a time for everything ... so I declared the holidays officially started last weekend. The kids don't mind! Our impulsively started 'Knights and Castles' unit study/ lapbook is in a folder, ready to return to whenever we get the urge. Christmas themed work/ fun is photocopied, but if we don't get to it, it will keep until next year.

Now it's full steam ahead with preparing for Christmas and our church camp.

The kids Lego collection has suddenly expanded dramatically, as my brother moved house and found our boxes full of bits from when we were children. Hooray! Have you ever cleaned lego, piece by little piece, with detergent, a toothbrush, nailbrush and baby wipes? It's rather time consuming. I estimate I have only 15-20 hours work remaining. Meanwhile, the kids are gladly playing inventing all kinds of vehicles, homes and mini-worlds.

I want to write about so many things, but it's not likely to happen if I wait to write detailed posts or put helpful links ...

Brain explosions (a good thing in children) in literacy and numeracy. Elijah's 2 bottom teeth which fell out in one day, leaving him with a cheeky (or cheekier) grin and a lisp. Jasmine's delights and dramas. How much their swimming has improved.

The kids are suddenly both excited about writing ... in their journals, letters or just as part of their games. It's happening so naturally that I'm careful to stay out of the way unless invited to help.

Book reviews. I've been captivated by Mao's Last Dancer. Inspired and touched by The hospital by the River (about a fistula hospital in Ethiopia). Delighted by We of the Never Never (read with extra interest as my husband may be a descendant of The Fizzer, the outback postman). Amazed at the snippets Pete shares from The Snowball - Warren Buffett. I'm a really fussy reader ... nothing scary, evil, violent, graphic, suspenseful, rude, boring ... but have recently managed to find a few other books which have provided entertainment and escape. Though sometimes leaving me haunted, after reaching into parts of my mind best left untouched.

Our bloggy homeschooling friend Dana (of Roscommon Acres blog), whose family is hurting so much. Their beautiful little boy is gone after a tragic accident in the home. They've been in my heart and prayers since I read that terribly sad message.

How kind and helpful the kids are when I most need them to be ... praying for me, making their own lunch, folding washing, playing quietly. How they must have a radar which senses the moment I have energy, so that they can fight, be demanding and willful again!

Lovely homeschool friends. Online inspiring, sharing, listening. In real life caring, laughing, enjoying the journey together. Locally we've had play dates, a pool party and presentation day. I'm being deliberately vague about plans for next year, waiting to see what our needs and desires are, as the kids are changing ever so quickly ... who knows what the new year will bring? I'm thankful and excited that God willing, we'll again be homeschooling alongside such genuine, delightful people.

*********************************

Wishing you and your families a special Christmas and wonderful new year.

Love to you all,
Vanessa

Home ed. with younger siblings

2010-12-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

A few people have recently asked for tips about how to get things started, and how to occupy younger siblings.

Here's some encouragement and tips from my experiences so far:

Tot Trays .... for the little ones, keen to do their own 'school work', there are a lot of good ideas in the pages of this site which I adapted to our needs. Unit studies, lap books, sharing lots of books and fun maths also worked well.

My youngest child was keen to 'play schools', which helped immensely when I wanted to transition the kids back to a routine with more structure after a year of mostly unschooling. Jasi's enthusiasm pulled in her big brother, who by 5 was ready for a break from 'work' and wanted to play non stop! I did question all of my assumptions and expectations, and gave him abundant free time. I chose less structured teaching methods to build his basic skills during that phase. Elijah's bouts of negativity dissolved as there was no pressure, and whilst it wasn't always easy to see 'progress' at the time, now we're entering a new phase again, and seeing the fruit of the learning which did occur.

We now have a timetable and routine as a guide, which helps, but is INCREDIBLY flexible. I won't share it here as there's never a day or week when we actually do what it says!
Here are some of the things we do:

... As a fun way to draw the kids in and grab their attention and set a positive tone, we gather for a quick introduction, interesting and full of tasty, quick bites. For example, we pray (briefly, having usually prayed in bed earlier) and read a Bible story or scripture verse, use the whiteboard for things such as date, sentence about the day or other idea, sometimes weather, number patterns, brainteasers, interesting words, quick phonics reviews, sometimes a scripture, or a list of some kind (the kids have turns helping write). In my board writing I use words they can read as well as extend and challenge them in a fun and supportive context.

... Some days we skip the intro. Other days that is ALL we do formally, and the rest is through shared reading, experiences, spontaneous opportunities and rabbit trails. Natural learning defines so much of what young children are inclined to do, given free time, resources and a willing audience to share their discoveries with. Children are ever changing and amazing!

... With 5-6 yr olds, our sit-down bookwork has usually been only 1/2 to 1 hour a day, low pressure and more about basic skills, habits and attitude. Sometimes I will say what's to be done and why. Other times I will present two options and let the children choose, or the children may suggest a book they'd prefer to do. If the children ask to do extra, I let them. They sometimes like to read to us or do writing before bed.

... Often "life" changes the routine. We take many opportunities for excursions, play dates, sports and family visits. No worries, as children are always learning, I've learned to see the balance and not worry about missed 'lessons'. Illness gets in the way more often than I'd like. I don't try to force sick kids or myself to work, it's usually a case of one down, all down, and we fall back on natural learning, educational DVDs and read alouds.

... Lots of hands on activities, shared books, games, variety of resources handy for the kids to select from, or I will choose something to do together.

... We use the computer as a tool for providing opportunities for 1-1 learning, with the kids free to choose between about 5 options (eg. at times this has included typing in Word, Reading Eggs, Targeting Maths CD-roms, Smart Kiddies, Tux Paint, Mathletics or Skwirk). In theory I can set one child up on the Mac, then spend time with the other. In reality, this is sometimes perfect, sometimes painful, when the one on the computer needs help and whilst I do that, the other gets sidetracked.

That's part of what it looks like here, with 2 children who are 12 months and 10 days apart. I try to keep it positive, understand each child, and go with the flow.

Someone on AussieHomeschool wrote "Sometimes it is very hard to get them to settle down, especially when there is more important stuff happening (nice weather, racing bikes in the yard, scrounging in the garden for slugs etc) and I have been fairly gentle on this, because of their ages and stages (that is also how they learn.)"

My response to this is, I totally understand, especially about ants in pants. We're still there! I try to understand and respect what's important to the children, and work with them rather than fight the tide. I love seeing the children take charge of their own learning, and watch great things unfold when they decide to 'give speeches' or role play occupations. Sure, it's not always so tidy, as they also choose to be cooks with garden litter, wash the floor with a tea towel, or hijack all the chairs and cushions for a bus ... but that's part of childhood.

Next year my plan includes "The Australian Book Traveller" by Michelle Morrow (her website is www.downunderlit.com), "The Wonderland of Nature", by Nuri Mass (also from Michelle), additional eclectic science, LEM phonics, eclectic Maths (using what I have on hand) and lots of other fun!

Decisions, decisions

2010-11-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

The time has come, the walrus said ... to take all the good things I've learned from so many approaches, and DO what I think is right. Without worrying about what other people think. I love that each of my home ed. friends has a unique approach to nurturing their children. I enjoy the debates we have about benefits of each viewpoint. I need to stop agonising over choices so much and get on with it already!!

Today I read a very wisely written post , which expresses eloquently WHY curriculum/method decisions are so emotionally charged, and how to think rationally about it. It's the "what, why and how" of one homeschool family. I love it.

For a few months I have been drifting home to my favourite, eclectic mix of approaches. I've dabbled with a mix of my existing resources, most of which are left-overs from my teaching years. Picking and choosing, experimenting, observing, thinking. Researching new resources, buying secondhand, borrowing and trying.

For our home school (and life), I want

... flexibility and routine, sparkiness and diligence
... to ignite interests, fuel imaginations, have adventures
... wholesome, quality, faith-building content
... challenging, creative, invigorating, interesting

I've spent many hours this term reading reviews and comparing curriculum choices for each subject in our homeschool for next year. For each subject there is such a mind-boggling range of methods, philosophies, depth and breadth of content, price range and ... so many CHOICES. The outcome, my plan, is eclectic and tailored to our children and family life. I'm not striving for unattainable perfection, but am seeking to do my best. I know plans change and reality looks different to imagined reality. I can live with that :)

In the post I linked to earlier Jess summed up her goal so nicely, and it expresses what Pete and I want too ... "a loving, positive family home that equips our children with a love of the Lord and a love of learning."

Jasi is begging to have her turn on the computer. She's desperate to do her maths!
She's said, "Can I do it now?" about 27 times.
Guess that's my cue to get out of the way. Bye for now!

Quick Update

2010-11-15T22:37:00.000-08:00

On my writing blog, Ink Island, is a summary of some things which have been keeping my mind and pen busy lately.

Aside from that, I've been drafting some posts about our home ed. plans and possibilities, and the resources I've chosen for various subjects next year (never 100% sure though, as things change). They'll be ready to share soon. This has taken an inordinate amount of time!! I think I've read a billion reviews and samples, and have scribbled a notepad full of comparisons, pros and cons, and combinations which 'might' work really well for us.

It's quite a challenge at the moment to even attempt to record what our days and weeks have been like ... a fizz-whizzing hazy blur ... but here's a bit of the puzzle ...

* we're loving the warmer weather, with swimming lessons and boogie boarding at the beach

* my health is still up and down, but may all be linked to my thyroid (early results point to Hashimoto's Disease) , food allergies/ intolerances and perhaps PCOS ... more tests ahead yet, but then again, I could just be healed by the Lord at any time :)

* the children are delightful, always industriously playing, talking, singing, making music or running riot, challenging me in new ways every day

* we are doing 'school' work for an hour or two a few times a week. Of course plenty of natural learning too, which always excites me to see, but I'm more comfortable when we combine it with purposeful, deliberate lessons ... it's all about attitude, timing, priorities, mutual respect and learning styles

* this weekend we're going up the coast to support an outreach (and stay in a resort) ... and our Christmas camp (also with church) is coming up so fast I feel I should soon start packing.

That's part of my recent history ... please drop me a hello if you're still around and forgive my infrequent web presence!

Watch for World Diabetes Day

2010-11-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Please watch this delightful clip ... here's why!!

Wasn't that lovely!! And less painful than a finger-prick test!
Thanks for your support.

P.S. There are lot's of ideas cooking, things happening and resources being reviewed at Chrysalis Island at present. I'll update you all soon.

Canberra ... with activity links!

2010-10-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

I was quick to put up our snow report following our holiday, but what did we do for the rest of that week?
Here's a glimpse ...

For a few nights we stayed with my Aunty and Uncle, where the children enjoyed playing with resident terriers Snowy and Sally. One evening we enjoyed a family dinner with my cousins. Elijah discovered another food he likes ... caviar and smoked salmon blini (small pancakes). This adds to his favourite foods list of bbq baby octopus and homemade sushi (Makizushi 巻寿司), a definite seafood theme which has prevailed for a couple of years. I LOVED being in a home with central ducted heating, even if it was sometimes a little too warm ... it was ironic to be warmer in Canberra than I had been for months, the reason being that we only use the gas heater or air conditioner for a few hours a day in the middle of winter. Frugal and enviro-conscious intentions only!

Of the outings, QUESTACON was our family favourite. There is so much to do and see, touch, experience, learn, wonder about ... the kids had fun in Mini-Q, the 0-6 yrs play zone. Mini-Q featured an impressive water play setup which I'd love to replicate if I had a spare sunroom. We loved watching a very clever live science show, "Invasion from the Planet Fwah" The BOC liquid nitrogen show. We didn't try free-fall (a vertical slide), but I did go on the earthquake simulator (it was ok) and Track Attack, a rollercoaster simulator (awesome, even if I'm biased because my Uncle built it). Jasmine was very upset (like totally traumatised) by the pretend guilotine and the accompanying sound effect ... we saw it as we explored a sideshow exhibit, then every time she heard it operating (even from other rooms) she would shake with fear. In the end she practically dragged me through the exit doors, but thankfully didn't mention it again once home. How I wish we lived closer and could go to Questacon more often (though at least we've seen their traveling exhibits when they've been in town). See what you think of Questacon online, there are lots of activities (for kids and big kids like us!) to try, at Perception Deception and ScIslands.

We drove on the public road to a lookout inside Duntroon. A bunch of military trainees were hauling heavy packs up the huge mountain. I was more interested in the immediate surroundings than the view of Australia's capital city, as it gave me a glimpse of the life path I didn't commence at age 17 (of the two cadetships I applied for, I accepted the offer from BHP Information Technology, and thankfully missed out on becoming an air traffic controller with ADFA at the last stage of selection ... their wise psychs must have realised I wasn't made of tough enough stuff) ... whew!

Cockington Green minitature village was a big hit with the kids, and we walked around for hours listening to them say, "Look at that!" as they noticed every little detail. In the International display Elijah wanted to quiz me about every country and type of building ... I wished I was a walking encyclopedia. If we go again I'll see if we can have a guided tour with an expert!

Our next venue was the National Dinosaur Museum, which was a bit of a fizzer. Perhaps on it's own we would have seen it in a more exciting light. It was kind of small, and the tired children just wanted to zoom around, buy unnecessary 'stuff' in the gift shop, and go out for icecreams. Elijah and I preferred the Australian Museum in Sydney which we visited last year.

We saw Parliament House from various angles as we drove to other places, but will save the proper tour until the children are a bit older. They are pretty interested in government and followed the recent election with us. They talk about Kevin Rudd, and weave Julia Gillard into their play conversations in amusing ways (such as once, she was telling Barbie she would pass a law to allow boys to go to hairdressers ... is that a hint of discontent about MY home salon skills?)

The Australian War Memorial was the place Elijah MOST wanted to see, but we didn't get there. Time just ran out and we decided it would best be left until next time. Until then we can use their Kids HQ website to learn more about our history.

Mental health ... choices, attitudes, perspective

2010-10-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

The way we think is a choice. I'm writing myself a pep talk today (well last week I started, but am getting back to it today) about positive thinking and how perspective can change our self perception. Do you struggle with your mind and drive yourself crazy at times?

I do. Sometimes mental health issues take us beyond the point of reason, to a point where we feel helpless and lost and resigned to riding the downward spiral. I've been there and I'm not talking about that this time. I don't think I have bipolar disorder, not that I'm sure, but from what I've read I don't think I'm that extreme. Still, times like this are scary, and I feel for friends who share this challenge, whatever form or depth it takes. I don't want my struggle to sound bigger than it is, knowing so many people face so much harder challenges, life threatening illness, natural disasters, major losses etc. And please don't think I'm oversimplifying these issues ... I'm just sharing a small glimpse into my recent rollercoaster rides.

The ups are exhilerating, I'm soaring and energetically zinging through the universe doing great things. The world is my oyster. I have so much to offer and can't wait to get into it ... all at once! Balance is out the window, but I can forget that for a while. I brush off suggestions to slow down and can't understand why everyone else is moving at a snail's pace. But as long as I can get on with my quests, that's fine!

My down times are infuriating ... days of being hardly able to get dressed before lunch, don't know what to feed the children. I feel like a homeschool failure. A parenting and marriage failure. I feel sorry for my family, having to put up with me. It's hard to start anything, let alone finish. I try to smile, keep up appearances when I have to, but being awake is stressful. Jobs pile up. Even on 'good' bad days I waste time and get lost in my own world. I'm glad to be alive but wish I was asleep. The Lord and my family are my lights in the distance, encouraging me to step, towards the end of the dark tunnel.

Perhaps contributing to all of this are our recent trials with death, family illness and parenting challenges (which I haven't much written about). And I've been physically unwell and hate to acknowledge that and give it any place in my life. I don't plan to stay sick. Still, at times it's hard to deny, and last week I actually answered honestly when people asked how I was. Winter coughs and sinus left me feeling like I had broken ribs for months (perhaps I did), but that's improving now that Spring is here. My doctor is also investigating the cause of some long term women's problems, and it comes as no surprise my iron levels are low, but we also found my thyroid is out of whack. Though I'm yet to see her to find out what it means, but this new clue gives me hope that I won't need more tests and various cures which sounds worse than the problem. Thyroid problems can cause hormonal problems. I'm reading a book by Sandra Cabot to learn how diet can help.

My advice to myself (and anyone else feeling less than competent and confident at the moment):

* baby steps ... break goals down into small tasks. If I'm not up to making the whole house shine all at once (who ever is?) at least I can clean a window or tidy one shelf.

* momentum ... if I can just start something, before I know it I'm on a roll and have done more than I would have if I'd thought, worried and procrastinated.

* ask for help ... I find this really hard. Like I said I don't want to acknowledge there's a problem. I can ask the Lord, and read the Bible to remind myself He's promised to help me in so many ways. If I tell my husband, mum or friends I'm struggling, that's being humble, honest and genuine, rather than my unkind self-perception that this is weak, burdensome and ugly ... I wouldn't think that of a friend who asked for help, so why judge myself so harshly?

* likewise, accept that I'm not perfect. Not that I won't try and be better. But I will try things even if I risk failure or imperfection.

* write in my journal to figure out what's out of sync ... what, within my control, can I do to fix this imbalance? This time, my reflections have revealed that I need to get organised, redirect my mental energy into a new challenge, and grow up in terms of being disciplined with my housework, home ed. and other responsibilities.

* recognise that I have choices. I can't choose when my hormones or tiredness might try to sabotage my energy or mood, but I CAN choose to eat well, pray, sleep enough and make it a habit to think positively and trust the Lord. I can choose to learn and find ways around my limitations. I can choose to live and love, and to grow through this.

* learn, imagine and dream. Believe that anything is possible. Enjoy life and look forward to heaven.

Today I'm pretty level headed. I accept the highs and lows, though I believe God wants me to be moderate and sober ... for the record, since some of you don't know me, I should say I don't drink, smoke or use any drugs ... unless you count books and an occasional coffee or chocolate or smelling the citrus trees in bloom!

That's it. I'm just sharing part of my journey of trying to live my best life. I know other people struggle too, for a time or throughout their lives. Maybe my openness will help someone.

Snow Holiday

2010-09-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

One big highlight of our holiday last week was a quick trip to the snow. The children have looked at snowy travel brochures, stories, weather reports and websites for a couple of years, so this was a much anticipated experience!

We stayed at a resort in Jindabyne, and drove into the Kosciuszko National Park twice, to the snow fields at Perisher. Despite being the end of the season, there was plenty of white stuff to play in ... just a little icy and slushy at the base of the hill. The roads were clear and dry, not crowded, which made the trip a 20 minute breeze compared to Pete's tales of 3 hour bumpy rides using chains in a crawling stream of traffic.

The children built snowmen. Elijah threw snowballs for us all to dodge.
Elijah's snowman video on YouTube

Pete tirelessly dragged the toboggan up the mountain, again and again, sometimes with Jasmine onboard!
Jasmine's toboggan ride on YouTube

I haven't skied before, and I'm not sure whether I want to! Pete thinks I'll be a natural at it but I'm scared of the sliding sensation and the momentum ... so we'll see. The toboggan was incredibly fun! In a year or two we might all return for a week, for the whole kit and kaboodle of ski hire and lessons. This will thrill Jasmine, who was begging to join the snow school we saw.

Driving through the country between Canberra and Jindabyne was delightful for me (aside from the good old 'are we there yet?' chorus ... partly alleviated with new CD's and audio books from the library). So much about the countryside really tugs at my heart and makes me reflective and dreamy. And I loved being on an unfamiliar road and seeing new sights, like these rock formations in the middle of sheep paddocks!!

It probably doesn't look that exciting, but I find rocks and farms aesthetically appealing and inspiring. While Pete drove, I jotted down verses of country ballads which I might sing, if I was that way inclined!

It was warm enough for us to set up camp in the carpark for the day, right near the snowplay area ... a convenient spot for dressing, snacking and resting. After an active morning, Jasmine and I stayed in the car the second afternoon, as she was tired and had enough of being wet. We played connect four, and she even did some school work in the car! That wasn't my intention when I threw in a few workbooks for the trip (mostly out of guilt about our recent month off "school"), but Jasmine seemed relieved to do something familiar, and I was glad as she stopped complaining.

Meanwhile, the boys were on the mountain and Elijah became fearless on the toboggan!

Out of touch

2010-09-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have been out of touch lately for a few reasons.

Supportive ... of Pete and his family, missing his Dad and learning what life's like without him. I feel it too, but seem to process emotions in waves. It seems not real, yet also normal. The peace of the Lord has helped us all so much.

Sickness interrupted my Spring-cleaning spree ... a rotten sore throat, head, cough, sinus infection, glandular thing. Mostly Elijah and I, but Jasi has been snuffly and needy too so it's been full on. I should have been in bed, and have had naps when I could, but have been busy nursing and nurturing. Happier that way anyway!

Away on holiday ... starting today. We're getting better, I hope!!!! We've delayed for a day to try and be germ free and energetic. So we're hitting the road for the national capital to see the sights, and spend a couple of days playing in snow!

Offline ... our connection is dodgy, dropping in and out. That's ok because words have been elusive. I've also been reading some inspiring books, which I'll write about when we get home. I have written comments for your blogs but don't always get around to posting them because my inner editor is speaking too loudly and needs a tune up!! Just know I care.

So ... I'm going to hit "publish" now, pack a few more things and head off into a fun family adventure. See you when we return!

Reading - our style

2010-09-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

I don't think there's any single, best way to help children become readers. I think Love, patience, time and fun are the keys to encouraging a child's natural interest in stories, and their desire and ability to read will flow from there.

We haven't followed a specific learn-to-read program. I've borrowed ideas from all kinds of approaches, including phonics (LEM), sight words (eg. Dolch) ... and our home is a playground for whole language! Step by step programs have worked for some of my friends, combined with the other essential ingredients I mentioned above.

Here's our story so far, from 0 to 6 years:

From the early days of babyhood the seeds of reading were planted. We played with words, read aloud ten zillion books, bought books, visited the library often and the kids chose books to borrow on their own cards. When friends and family would visit, the kids would toddle up and hand them a book to read out.

Elijah loved books from day one (well, day 8 when he came home from hospital). I thought Jasmine was going to be different. She would wriggle and squirm away ... but by 9 months she was just as hooked on books as her big brother!

Here are some snapshots of the fun we've had with reading in the pre-school years ...

This was Jasmine on her 2nd birthday (Elijah was just 3).

Pete was a home Dad ... each he day wrote a sentence or two on the chalkboard, and the kids would 'read' it to find out what exciting plans he had ... words like icecream, park and swim were very popular!

We now use a whiteboard, but this habit has stayed with us, and now the children help write the days of the week, sentences or activity lists.

With toddlers, Superdad also made up flashcards with words the children were interested in, and they would play games to win cards by being the first to read them.

We played games and more games ....

We made up rhyming word lists (some with nonsense words) then phonogram-based word lists (based loosely on LEM phonics). The kids initially read these to earn pez lollies!

We have a range of flip-books (bought cheaply), free, photocopied or printed and laminated games, word rings, word and letter puzzles ... these are not regarded as greater or less than any of our other resources and toys. It wasn't so much 'school' at age 3-5, just something fun we did together.

It hasn't changed all that much.

We also go through phases of using flashcards for 'sight words', blends and phonograms.

I sometimes make up a game, like this 'ar jar' for the phonogram ar ("ah, or, the car had a war") we made 2 years ago. We thought up the words together, I wrote them on cut up Christmas cards. 4-6 cards are placed face up at a time, I say a clue (eg. it can start a fire) and the kids find the word which says the answer (spark). They may work as a team or compete for the most cards.

Word wheels don't get much use here ... they look good and are a bit of fun, but aren't as good as reading in context.

Both kids do ABC Reading Eggs, whenever they want (if the computer is available), which averages out to 1-3 one-hour sessions per week. When they were younger the kids also liked the free lessons and they still like the printable books at www.starfall.com

Jasi and Elijah pretend to read to each other (making up stories about the pictures) ... role playing librarians, teachers, mums and dads. Likewise, they use story books as pretend music books, from which they sing (making up songs as they go).

We have many 'traditional' reading tools too, around the house including many posters. I holepunch posters in the top corners, thread 5-6 posters onto 2 curtain rings, then hang the set on hooks I've set up around the house, such as on the back of the toilet door. They're easy to flip, or swap for a different set.

We've ended up with an eclectic range of 'early readers' at little expense, bits and pieces of many series, from school throw-aways, book stalls, home made books, free printable books (eg. from www.starfall.com) and Bible story early readers.

We borrowed Fitzroy Readers from a school Mum worked at last year, and the kids hated them!

Elijah now reads Dr Seuss to us, along with various library books and others from his shelves.

Magnetic word kits, sentence makers and phonics work books

are often done just for fun, usually whenever the kids want ... such as bed time!

Living in a book-lovers paradise, with so many tools at our disposal and some deliberate instruction through conversation, games and 'playing schools' ...
Have my children become amazing readers at an incredibly early age?

No and yes. It hasn't all been plain sailing, but on the whole, it's been positive. The children have been at times far ahead of their age-expected levels, then other times they cruise, forget sounds and sight words and fall behind to a more 'average' level for their age. They have vocab and comprehension beyond their years. Most important to me, they are interested, self-motivated and enjoy their experiences with words and books.

Our shared reading time is still plentiful and precious, and includes picture books, chapter books, science, maths, geography and history references. We 'do' the Premier's Reading Challenge, just because we read the books anyway, so may as well get a certificate to show for it.

I photographed our bookshelves ... but there are enough photos here! Just imagine bookshelves, baskets and stacks all over the house, add up to 90 library books at a time, and that sums it up.

If it's mixed with cuddles, it's all good!

Lost for words

2010-09-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a tough week. There is a time for every purpose under heaven, and this has been a painful time.

My wonderful dad-in-law died last week. He was in hospital with chest pain, and Pete thought he'd be out within a few days. Perhaps he'd get another stent put in. He survived a heart attack 20 years ago, so has had a lot of fantastic "extra" years to spend with his big family, doing the things he loved. He was talking to a nurse about the next adventure he had planned (a trip somewhere with his beloved wife Val) when he went suddenly. We're glad he didn't suffer for long.

The children understand that they won't see Grandpa again. Elijah's first comment was that he won't be able to go fishing with Grandpa, when he gets his first rod at Christmas. Jasmine found her twin lavender bears, to give to Grandma to help her feel better. She says the one a few millimetres taller is Grandpa, the short one is Grandma. Their understanding of death is calm, logical, innocent and faithful.

Last week, time stood still in some ways. But we carried on with activities like FBI, gymnastics, playdate, housemeeting (church home-group), a birthday party, and I helped Pete for his turn teaching Sunday school. The kids have kept us moving and positive, when we could have just curled up. Pete has dealt with it in his own quiet way, and I've been there with all the hugs he needs. The Lord has held us up through the emotional and mental pain of loosing someone so special.

Words have been hard to find. Mostly, I just physically hurt for the people I see hurting around me. Max's children, grandkids, his best mate. My thoughts swirl, peaceful but persistent until my head hurts. Even in 'normal' times I struggle with the temporary nature of our existence, the paradox of a purposeful yet vaporous, vain life. As always, I'm trying not to dwell on unanswerable questions which could easily consume my mind and time.

But life goes on and is a gift from the Lord, which I'm thankful for, and I will follow where He leads. The sun is shining, the breeze is warmer than last week. Pete is planning our upcoming snow holiday and discussing whether we'll also go camping in the bush or near the beach before summer, or both. I'm reading Jessica Watson's book about her amazing journey, marveling at her clarity and determination, and wondering what goals my children, Pete and I, will set for ourselves in the future.

I spoke to my own Dad last night. He too had a heart attack a few years ago. When it started he asked a workmate to drive him to hospital, and calmly walked in. He didn't tell us about it until a week later, after he'd recovered (or perhaps we found out by accident, I forget) ... no need to worry anyone he said! He's good now but still working too hard. I'm glad for his friendship, and a zillion life lessons and skills he's shared with me over the years.

As usual this week, I've read blogs, familiar and new, which have been as always, inspiring, touching and interesting. I just haven't commented much. I joined facebook, for the second time, and will probably, again, close my account before I get caught up in the vortex. I'm just not good at small-talk or brief bytes of conversation, it makes me nervous. I can see why many people like it though.

For someone "lost for words" I've written a lot. Hope I haven't rambled.

Time to get dressed and play in the sun.
See you again soon!

50 word challenge

2010-09-02T04:28:00.000-07:00

We have an education savings plan with ASG , and were invited to complete a quick survey then enter a competition to win an iPad. The challenge was:

How do you keep your child engaged in learning (in fifty words or less)?

Prizes are awarded for the most interesting, original or thought-provoking entries.

We were allowed to submit one entry per child. Here are my 50 words per child:

Our son is home educated using diverse approaches tailored to his learning style, abilities, strengths and passions. He is building a strong foundation for lifelong learning through meaningful work, conversations, mentors and inspiring experiences. We actively pursue educational enrichment opportunities within the local home education network, community and the internet.

Miss 5 is learning and thriving in a loving, delight-driven, resource-rich home school. Like a seedling she is intrinsically driven to learn and grow … her slender stalk reaches skyward toward opportunities, branches explore dreams, leaves absorb inspiration as roots sink deeper to face the challenges our precious flower seeks.

I found it a fun writing exercise, even if my simile lead me down the garden path!

How would you answer the question?

Please post your response in my comments ... I can't promise an iPad, but would love to hear your thoughts.

:) Vanessa

P.S. I hope I'm not breaching any copyright rules by sharing the great question ASG posed ... and it's free publicity for them. It's a great way to be prepared, if you think your children might go on to tertiary studies, and the younger they are when you sign up the greater the long term benefits.

P.P.S. I'm not commissioned to say this!

Learning between the lines

2010-08-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

If you asked me during the day yesterday what we were doing, I would probably have answered 'not much' or 'just the usual'. As usual, I started with a vague idea of how the day might go ... an easy day at home, a bit of school work, reading together, lots of play (inside as it's raining), and as always going with the flow and having a lot of fun.

It didn't seem like much, just an ordinary home Monday, as much as any day here is 'normal'! Looking back I'm amazed by the scope of what went on between the lines, during our 'ordinary' day:

5:15am Snuggly little ones in sneak in with me after Pete left for work, neither of them sleepy ... we talk and pray about what we're thankful for. Jasmine starts a Sudoku puzzle from my bedside table - needs a lot of help, but she has the general idea. They start a debate about pets ... Jasmine wants a white rabbit, Elijah wants a turtle ... though they know we are not likely to become pet owners any time soon! I half-sleep, half listen as their thoughts bubble out about care, habitats, natural environments, food (I'll grow carrots, said J.), temperature regulation, cleaning etc ... the possibility of further sleep melts with the rising sun. Around 7am we drift out to a sunny dining room.

Breakfasts are made to order ... toast with all the colours of the rainbow for Jasmine (a rectangle each of jam, vegemite, peanut butter and honey), a banana sandwich for Elijah, toast for me. The kids eat and watch cartoons from 7:35 to 8:30am, while I shower, check emails, read blogs, wash dishes ... away from the screen, kids dress, make beds, brush teeth and play.

The kids play variously with dolls, books, bikes and scooters and a big cardboard box, which they wallpaper with paintings done last week. This ends in tears later in the day, as some paintings rip during removal. Meanwhile, I start a new blog, Ink Island , to write more about writing, and I write my first post. It's fun playing with layouts, background pictures and words. I also finish my previous, jumbled blog post for Chrysalis Island. My mind is a bit clearer after getting these thoughts down!

We come together for morning tea (fairy floss and nuts) and read about Sarah and Abraham's baby and their praising, from The Little Girl's Bible . I write Psalm 34:1 on the whiteboard. The kids copy the verse into an exercise book and draw and label what they praise the Lord for. Jasmine makes hers sparkle with glitter pens and glitter glue. Elijah's picture spreads to the next page as he tells us a story as he draws. He writes on the whiteboard - sunny (Jasmine wants an 'e' on the end, but reluctantly trusts me that it must end in 'y' like baby and puppy). Elijah draws boxes for a checklist and labels the first one 'litrse' (literacy).

Jasmine does a page of a spelling textbook then starts colouring in and doing patterns inside bubble-writing. I ask Elijah if he'd like to write about pets or knights, but he says chocolate! He tells me a title, which he copies from the whiteboard (Chocolate Flavour Inventions). He narrates a bit while I write (the new chocolates will be sold to raise money for poor people), then he draws and labels some new flavours, which somehow turn into icecreams along the way!

Around 1pm, Pete arrives home and we have lunch (he's home early as today's work was overtime on a rostered day off), toasted sandwiches. He offers to clean up, so the kids and I sit on the lounge to continue our informal (make it up as we go) unit study learning about Poles and Polar Bears. We've watched DVDs over the years, and read a few books recently, like Polar Bears Past Bedtime , by Mary Pope-Osborne, and parts of Horrible Geography: Perishing Poles . We talk about (and I record) what we know and what we want to know . It's fun and I'm impressed! We look at the globe and wall map, to see Antarctica and the Arctic. Then we re-read a picture book, Antarctic Dad , share a few pages from non-fiction Antarctica , and a new picture book Over in the Arctic . We take a long time to read, as each page is fuel for discussion, dominated by Master E.!

The kids put away a stack of about 30 books they've been browsing. Jasmine plays boxes/ dots with Pete while Elijah 'reads' Knights and Castles . From 3-4 pm the kids watch ABC TV (playschool, cartoons). Pete starts our tax returns, and I read in bed!

While Pete has a well earned rest I keep the kids quiet with a game of Rummikub . It's their first time playing, and I'm surprised by Jasmine's patience and by how interested and eager they both are. We play open hands, but by the end they can make their own moves if I give a small clue. At 5pm the kids call Pete out and we all watch Survive This! on ABC ... an adventurous Canadian survival show for kids.

The kids take turns doing dot to dots in a booklet of A-Z and 1-30 puzzles, easy but fun, and play 'memory' with a deck of picture cards. Dinner (chicken schnitzel, mashed potato and veges) sparks talk of volcanoes (as Elijah's mash mountain erupts with sauce), and is followed by the final few chapters of our latest chapter book, The Littles and the Lost Children by John Peterson. Together the kids quickly do a set of Maths Mentals from New Wave Mentals B , and Elijah asks to do more. They find it fun because it's new today, but I'm thinking "it's too easy, even the next book is too easy, what's the point?" but I do want them to have quick recall and some 'schoolish' skills in case they ever decide to do maths tests, competitions or need to slot into a classroom at some stage. I have always done maths just for fun, and my kids do seem to be wired the same way. We'll see.

Time for pyjamas, tooth brushing, tucking in, chatting and praying. Pete read a chapter of the next book, The Littles go to school . Then the kids play in bed, read and colour in until about 8pm when they fall asleep. I go online to renew library books and update the kids' book lists for the Premier's Reading Challenge (both are now finished, Jasmine's first and Elijah's second year).

In bed at 10pm, I'm too tired to read for once (aside from a quick scripture), but I can't sleep. Several times I flick on the light to jot down notes to myself. I finally do some maths (double 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 etc) to switch off my meandering mind, and drift to sleep trying to double 16384 ... finally .... zzzz

You've got mail!

2010-08-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I'm writing you a letter this morning, just for a change. First of all I wanted to say thanks for all of your comments, and for sharing your time and thoughts with me. Sorry I don't always leave comments on your blogs ... even if I want to sometimes I just can't put thoughts into words in the time I have.

Chrysalis Island is a bit eclectic, like everything I do, and is about more than homeschooling, though home schooling does absorb a lot of my time, energy and is a veritable playground of discovery, challenge, inspiration and creativity. On here, I try to usually write something which neatly fits into a box or answers a specific question or explore a certain topic. This is a messier post ...

I had good intentions to write helpful, practical home ed posts recently, and whilst I could (since I live it and have many ideas I'd love to share), I also couldn't because I might write too much (and you'd fall asleep mid sentence) or too little (and it would be nothing new) or somewhere in between ... besides, every day shines a new light on things, and how do you paint when the colours are always changing?

Lately I've been scatter-brained, forgetful, daydreaming, preoccupied, off with the fairies ... the other day I tried to phrase it nicely ... so perhaps I'm an absent minded professor. Now that sounds fun! Never mind that I'm not actually a genius, I can still have the eccentric trait, right? An acceptable way to excuse my shortcomings? I do wish I could be more realistic at times, instead of idealistic and vague.

Some of the tangents I've been on lately include brain teaser and IQ websites, the theory and practicality of gifted education, science, especially chemistry, Sunday school coordinating and as always, reading a variety of thought-provoking books. I'm also studying what the Bible says about thinking, to try and resolve a few philosophical questions I've been wrestling with. It's helping put a lot of recent challenges into clearer perspective. But I still feel like I need a few days of strenuous bushwalking to force me to focus on reality and practicality!

I've been thinking about why I don't write more on my blog. I have plenty more to write about than actually makes it to the page. Some of it would probably interest, help or inspire some people. So what holds me back from writing more?

I tend to avoid controversy and conflict ... on the other hand a lot can be learned from diversity and debate. I hesitate to write about 'loaded' topics for fear of seeming too introspective, intellectual or opinionated, yet these are also the ones which I question, most want to understand and would welcome debate about. So I might get there yet!
Deciding what to share here, and what is better kept in a private journal. Will my children be upset with me for sharing their trials, triumphs and quirks? Online is fun and convenient, but if in doubt, I'll leave it out.
Every topic is so wide and deep that it's hard to declare anything 'ready to publish'. 'Finished' is an arbitrary, subjective word. Not that it matters anyway!!
Trying to protect the 'precious present ' from slipping away while my mind is occupied writing. The average post takes me 1-2 hours to write and rewrite, and whilst I want to write, I don't want to rob my family of time.
Self-doubt ... if I can't write confidently for a diverse audience of 13 (subscribers I know of), how will I ever finish any particular book for a potentially much wider audience?!

Anyway, what do you think about this blog? I originally started it as my thinking space, but have used it mostly for home ed. related subjects. I have just started Ink Island to blog about my writing hobby. Should I further separate my home ed entries from my other thoughts, or keep Chrysalis Island as is, complete with these sometimes diverse musings?

I look forward to hearing what you think. Either way, I'm just me and I'm glad to know you!

Best wishes,
Vanessa

Homeschool Wordle

2010-08-11T18:48:00.000-07:00

I created this at www.wordle.net, to print and use in our homeschool journal after seeing the idea here and here . If you click on the Wordle it will open in the Wordle gallery to view at a more readable size!

It was easy and a LOT of fun!

I just typed lots of words in a basic text editor (Stickies) then pasted my list into Wordle, played with the style and saved it in the public gallery. Voila!

I am hoping it will print well ... when I tried to resize it for this page, the text became too foggy.

Have a go, and add a link to your Wordle in my comments!

P.S. If you use Mac OS X as I do, refer to FAQs for information about how to print your Wordle.

It's official!

2010-08-05T04:31:00.000-07:00

We're doing a happy dance! We are now officially home schooling Elijah!! I know it's only a technical, legal point, but I'm the kind of person who likes to be affirmed and told I'm on track. It's probably not normal to be so excited by this, but it's such a relief, since we've waited for this day for a long time.

Our interview went for two hours, and Mr N. read everything I'd written. Often his eyebrows would wobble, he'd go tut-tut and shake his head. Uh oh, I thought.

I saw that face a lot as he turned the pages (educational philosophy, goals and plans, evaluation, scope and sequence, reflections, etc.). Half of it was nicely typed and polished, and half scribbled in handwriting, trains of thought, lists, messy mind maps. A lot of things I just pulled from my blog and slightly altered to suit the purpose!

After seeing that head shake and hearing the tutting a few times, I asked him what was up ... it turns out that's his 'I'm impressed' face! He gave us a lot of positive feedback. I was embarrassed. I didn't go overboard with paperwork, as in my uni student and teaching days, but I guess all my research, thinking and reflection over the last few years has paid off and ended up as something coherent which represents what we do well enough. I'm sure the Lord helped me balance my responsibilities this week ... busy life with the kids, preparation for our FBI Detective Day, preparing Sunday School lessons and pulling together 3 years worth of home ed. stuff'!!

Whew! Glad it's over and I can get some sleep. We went out for dinner to celebrate tonight ... a seafood restaurant. Elijah is OVER THE MOON to know that we are now registered, so he doesn't have to worry about having his education interrupted by school! When asked what he likes best about home schooling, he said "We play a lot." Ha!

Gotta get some zzzz's. Just had to say WOOHOO!!!!!!!!

Patterns and Tessellation

2010-07-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

I had a ton of fun preparing a Patterns and Tessellation workshop for FBI (Fun Brain Institute, our local home ed co-op) this week. The kids who attend FBI usually range from 0-10 years old, and my voice is still a bit dodgy, so this presentation was very brief ... we did a whirlwind tour of tessellation, patterns in nature, maths and art. After writing up the first few Fibonacci numbers (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13) a few kids were able to continue the pattern.

I flicked through these library books (and some printed pictures) as we talked about bee hives, snow flakes, architecture, mosaics, M.C. Escher and cells in the human body.

We also did a craft round-robin (cutting snowflakes, icing biscuits and making pop-stick puzzles), table games, played tunnel ball and had a story and music session. Many children coloured in a tessellating pattern at some point during the day. Here are some of the games & manipulatives we used:

Tantrix is shown top left. Other games we enjoyed playing included Tangram, KogWorks, Mastermind and Block by Block.

I promised to share some links to relevant websites with explanations, printable pages and best of all, interactive tools to play with ... so here they are! Please look at them with your children, because there are links within links and I can't check that all of them are appropriate for little eyes.

The maths of tessellation:
http://www.coolmath.com/lesson-tessellations-1.htm
http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Tessellation.html
http://mathforum.org/sum95/suzanne/whattess.html

Galleries, information, DIY instructions and summary of software to create tessellations:
http://www.tessellations.org/tess-what.htm
http://www.tessellations.com/

Tessellation grids to view or print and colour in:

http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/jo/tess/index.htm

M.C.Escher:
http://www.worldofescher.com/gallery/
http://www.mcescher.com/
http://britton.disted.camosun.bc.ca/jbaraki.htm

View Escher-style patterns, or buy a cool colouring book:

http://www.tabletoptelephone.com/~hopspage/HopsTiles.html

AND NOW FOR THE REAL FUN...
Free Interactive games (play with tessellating shapes on your screen):
http://shmuzzles.com/shmuzzle/shmuzzle.htm
http://www.mathcats.com/explore/tessellationtown.html
http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/frames_asid_163_g_3_t_3.html

Easy on-screen activity ... cut a snowflake:
http://snowflakes.barkleyus.com/make-a-flake.swf

Read about snow, ideas for fun ways to MAKE snowflakes:
http://britton.disted.camosun.bc.ca/snow/snow.html

AND more ... lots of links ... tessellation, patterns, fractals, Fibonacci and other fascinating maths!
http://www.uen.org/themepark/patterns/tessellation.shtml
http://42explore.com/teslatn.htm
http://www.cap.nsw.edu.au/bb_site_intro/stage2_Modules/tesselations/tesselations.htm
http://members.cox.net/fathauerart/index.html
http://www.maths.surrey.ac.uk/hosted-sites/R.Knott/Fibonacci/fibnat.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fractal
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_GBwuYuOOs

It's hard to stop ... but there you have it. A glimpse into the glorious world of maths ... I hope you and your kids will enjoy some of these links!

Home and Healthy

2010-07-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

Finally, we're almost all better!! I'm the one dragging the line, but after a day in bed yesterday my cough has eased. My ribs feel broken but I'm so much better and SO glad to say that! Thanks for the well-wishes.

While Jasmine was away, Elijah was content and happy to do his own thing. He was a different kid ... actually he was like the one year old we had just before Jasmine was born. Happy to play with lego for hours, sit around and read or watch movies. On Friday he was more restless and wanted me to do things with him a lot, but also kindly helped me with tidying up.

And on Friday night we picked up Jasi, HOORAY!! She had a great time, and enjoyed telling us all about it. The Butterfly house and maze, Big Banana, movies, cafes, beach ... and she loved giving us little things she'd lovingly chosen and brought home for us, like some plastic butterflies she painted colourfully, one for each of us.

Since Jasmine came home it's been one big play-a-thon for the two kids. They're SO happy to be back together. They're industrious, boisterous, messy, as noisy as baby elephants and practically oblivious to us grown-ups except when it suits them ... in other words we're back to normal life! And LOVING it!

Quiet as a mouse ...

2010-07-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

It's been a quiet week at my place. No running, squealing, screaming, shouting, jumping, fighting, wrestling and wiggling. And it was meant to be even quieter!

THE REASON
The kids and I were planning to go away with my Mum, for a few days holiday up the coast at my brother's place. Pete would be working, and coming home to an empty house and lovingly frozen dinners to reheat. (Note: Pete can cook, and often cooks delicious meals, but I thought ready meals would make him feel special while he was missing us)

But Elijah got sick. Well sicker I should say, as we'd all been taking turns with sore throats, aches and pains. Elijah took longer to respond, and clearly still wasn't well enough to travel. Even driving to the Chemist, he was complaining about aches and pains. My week or two of sore throat and head also intensified. With a cough, fever and aching all over, I wasn't fit to be anywhere but home. Our holiday plans were sabotaged.

Jasmine on the other hand, had a bad ear infection a week and a half earlier, but bounced back quickly once she started antibiotics. So whilst we were all laid low Jasi was bouncing around again, fighting fit, looking for action!!

THE ADVENTUROUS ONE
As a result of these circumstances, our little girl went away, on her longest holiday without us, and more significantly, without Elijah. Was she reluctant to go? Were we filled with trepidation and fear at letting her go?

Not a bit!! She helped load Mum's car and couldn't wait to leave. We know Mum and Joe are totally wonderful with our kids, so there was no reason for us to worry ... just to be happy for them, and pray that they travel safely and have a wonderful time.

We did wonder if Jasi would be lost her best buddy Elijah to play with. There was a chance, Pete suggested, she might miss us and cry a bit. Apparently not. She made herself right at home as soon as they arrived, and for the first few days didn't care to interrupt her colouring in or bath to talk to us on the phone.

Last night our Princess finally spoke to us on the phone. She sounded very distant, like she was tolerating our need to hear her voice, as she told us about the places they'd been and the fun they had. I'm sure it was just the rare and unusual experience of talking to Jasmine on the phone, but I wonder what she's feeling.

ANALYSIS
I've never been one to really MISS people, not as a habit anyway. When I moved away from home for Uni, I felt guilty about that, because I was supposed to be home sick. It took me many years to realise I'm just different in that way. I don't think I NEED to be away from people to love and appreciate them ... but when I have that space to breathe, it renews my energy so I can be more devoted. I like seeing people after some time away, and having interesting things to talk about. I deeply love and admire my family - immediate and extended, big and widespread - they are seriously the kindest, loveliest people I know, and I couldn't choose anyone better to be related to. Like normal people, I do have times when I crave to be with certain people, just want to be near them and comfortable in our familiarity. But I don't MISS people who are still alive, it's more like I look forward to seeing them again.

My point is, we all experience relationships and time apart in different ways. I understand and accept Jasmine's hot and cold, detached way of loving me. In contrast to her independence, she also expresses her love and neediness often, in exuberant, subtle and special ways. When Jasi is here (which she almost always is) she is demanding, caring, affectionate and talkative (these words are severe understatements, though people outside our home rarely believe it!) It's a fine line though ... if I listen to her at the wrong moment, or look too long, she'll stomp her foot and huff and puff, as if to say 'leave me alone!' I wonder ... is this, in part, what having a child with autism or aspergers is like?

In a beautiful photo of Jasi and I, framed on the dining room wall, I can actually see this puzzle. I am holding Jasmine, she's about 3 yrs old. I am facing her, about to kiss her cheek; her arms are around me comfortably, but she is looking away, nonchalant and self composed. It's an interesting study of our relationship. That we love each other is clear beyond a doubt, but it's a push and pull kind of balance!

MEANWHILE BACK AT THE RANCH
As for the QUIET home we've had ... it's been good to be able to rest. I'm still not well, but maybe it's just God's way of slowing me down. I hadn't intended to have 'school holidays' as such, like most people currently are, because we had such a disjointed few months. But we've had no choice.

Elijah and I have watched a lot of cartoons and DVDs, he has played contentedly by himself, and with me ... chess, toy soldiers, lego. Elijah spent hours yesterday cutting cardboard and making a little knight, which I helped him fasten with split pins and sticky tape. We went to the movies and saw Toy Story 3, which I thought Jasmine wouldn't like (since she hates noise and is easily scared) ... I was astonished when she told me that she also went to see that movie yesterday!!!!

With Pete we drove up to the beach cliffs to look for whales (and saw one, though it was very distant, so it's lucky we had my Dad's trusty old binoculars). While Elijah played and lay around watching TV, recovering, I sorted out mine and Jasmine's wardrobes (easily finding 8 bags for the Op Shop and one for a friend, and we still have way too much). I organised my notes and games for next week's FBI, all about Patterns in nature, art and maths. I spent a day writing the previous blog post. Read 3 novels. Printed odds and ends for the upcoming term of home schooling. Dreamed about doing so much more housework than the bare minimum I managed. Imagined getting all my papers in order for home ed. registration, but slept instead.

HOMECOMING

Today Mum and Jasmine are driving home. We'll meet them at Mum's around dinner time. It'll be lovely to see my little girl again, though I don't have high expectations for our reunion ... Jasi doesn't usually seem pleased to see us when we pick up the kids after sleepovers at Mum's, and clearly wishes they could stay for longer. This time she has stayed away longer, 3 nights ... I wonder if it seemed long enough for her?

I'm sure she'll be glad to see Elijah. There may be tantrums, rejections and silences (directed at us, and especially me). However Jasi acts towards me, I won't hold it against her. She is very much her own SELF, and I admire that. She feels what she feels, and will soon be back to her usual energetic, intelligent, precious and playful self!

Lovely Surprise!

2010-07-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

What a lovely surprise to wake up to ... a Beautiful Blogger Award!

Thank you Subadra, for the award, and the lovely comments you wrote about my blog. I always find something inspiring, useful or amusing to read at your Library of Books, Links and More ... it's an absolute treasure-trove! I have bookmarked many pages to refer to when my children are ready to explore certain topics, and some pages, such as this one about architecture, have helped with my own life-long education.

------------------------------------------------------

I'll admit I haven't properly participated in blog awards before, being too daunted by the rules. But I'm more familiar with how to do links etc. now, so am ready to give it a go!

The rules state a recipient of the Beautiful Blogger award must:

1) Add a link and note of thanks to the person giving the award.

2) Pass the award on to the bloggers whose blogs you love (15 tops)

3) Share 7 things about yourself

------------------------------------------------

There are SO many blogs I love reading! Subadra has already nominated a couple of blogs I would also have chosen ... freeplaylife and Magic and Mayhem.

It's my pleasure to send Beautiful Blogger Awards to:

Almost Unschoolers ... always full to overflowing with ideas about science, cooking, craft and everything to do with home ed. This family with 6 kids looks like a wonderful place to grow children!

Do Whatever He Tells You ... I love reading Tricia's blog about her home school journey and faith. I especially appreciate Tricia's informative and insightful posts about Autism Spectrum Disorder, including Aspergers and PDD-NOS. I have several friends whose children have these and other special needs, and am always keen to understand them better, and in doing so, gain ideas about how to cater for the various, unique needs of all children.

Dove's Rest ... Renelle writes from the heart, and shares some funny stories about her children. Dove's Rest is a great source of inspiration and homeschool tips ... Renelle has great taste in resources, and a lovely way of sharing her family's journey into home ed.

Escape Adulthood ... I came across this blog a few months ago, and just love the way Kim and Jason express their vision for a fun, child-like life! They're living their dream, encouraging readers to do the same and providing ideas to help us do it.

Left to their own Devices ... Michelle and I live on opposite sides of the world, but the similarities in our children are sometimes uncanny ... it helps to know someone else is facing similar challenges and triumphs. When I see a new post or comment by M.J., it's like a friend dropping in for a cuppa!

Eclectic Homeschool ... I enjoy reading about the many educational adventures these guys go on ... I especially love their voracious appetite for languages. Their very skillful Captain (aka Mum) guides them skillfully around this big, amazing world!

------------------------------------------------------------

That seems long enough, but the rules say I have to share 7 things about myself, so I'll try ...

1. When I was a child I thought my ears were too big and stuck out a mile ... but eventually I grew into them!

2. As a child I always got in trouble for reading. In first grade it was because I read the book upside down (it was more interesting that way!) At home it was because it was dinner time, chore time, bed time or social time. Now I'm grown up (kind of) ... and I still get in trouble for reading too much. I'm not addicted though ... I can stop anytime. In fact I did once stop recreational reading, by my own choice, for a whole year, except for reading the Bible.

3. I used to go with Dad on long distance trips when he owned a truck. I loved getting beyond the towns and mountains, out where the road was flat and the only thing on the horizon could be a couple of wheat silos and a single, crooked shed. One of my loveliest memories is sitting on top of a covered load of grain, in a place like that, just quietly watching the sun set.

4. I'm such a perfectionist that I even worry about getting my blog wrong!!!! I know I'm not perfect though, so forgive my imperfect grammar and punctuation, my hybrid of English/ American spelling and superfluous superlatives ;)

5. Both sets of my Grandparents moved to Australia (one set from England, the other from Holland) when they were in their 20's. I love this land surrounded by sea, the shape and size of this continent and especially the colours and contrasts. I especially love places where the bush meets the sea. If you want to see some stunning photos, click here.

6. I've been using Apple Macintosh computers since I finished highschool. My current iMac has a lovely white monitor surround. I don't own an iPod, iPad or iPhone. My mobile phone (which I share with hubby) is a 10 year old Nokia, for which I have the cheapest bills ever!! Usually under $8 a month.

7. Seven happens to be my favourite number. I like it's Biblical meaning (in Bible Numerics, 7 is the number of spiritual perfection, and God's seal). I also like that 7 is odd and a prime number. Interestingly, I was baptised by full immersion on the 7.7.00, after receiving the Holy Spirit (with evidence of speaking in tongues for the first time) on 5.7.00 (five is the number of Grace).

------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for reading my blog!!

I won't be offended if award recipients can't follow the Beautiful Blogger rules ... it's nice to "Pay It Forward ", but I think how you do it is up to you!

Warning ...

2010-07-05T05:20:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note. Our computer may live a long and healthy life and I hope to get several more years out of it. But the signs of impending illness it is displaying cause me to doubt it's remaining lifespan.

So if I drop off the net for a while, that will be why. I don't have ready access to another machine and hadn't budgeted on buying a replacement until September at best.

Now that I've warned you, we'll probably cruise through winter with no more hassles! I hope!!

:) Vanessa

What Unschooling and Natural Learning mean to me ... Part Two

2010-07-05T01:04:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy reading and talking about how other people 'do' home education. We're all curious about how others live their lives without school. Visiting homes, chatting at the park and seeing pictures on blogs is a lot of fun (speaking of which I should post more photos). We share thoughts and ideas about resources, arrangement of spaces and ways of organising things, and help each other learn and solve problems. I've met about 100 home ed. families, visited countless websites and subscribe to about 20 blogs. All are fantastic sources of inspiration. I love the culture of acceptance, generosity and encouragement which I've experienced online and in our local home ed. network. So ... THANKS!!!!

Just to clarify, I'm only writing here about what we're doing, which works for us at the moment. Each family is different and that's the beauty of having our children at home. I admire everyone doing their best, in their own way.

If any of this sounds organised, it's because I'm trying hard to find the consistent points in our very flexible, whimsical, busy life. And even though these posts are long, I bet I'll leave out some really special and important details. So expect a few p.s.'s from me. I'm not claiming to have any particularly original thoughts ... this synthesis is the result of a couple of years reading and talking and living. I'll get on with it then!

OUR VERSION OF ECLECTIC, TIDAL HOME EDUCATION ...

- we blend various aspects of Unschooling, Natural Learning, Interest-based, Child-led learning, Unit Studies, Literature and Thematic studies, Traditional school and probably other methods.
- the glue sticking it all together is our faith, relationships and zest for learning and living!

- learning happens all the time, everywhere, in conventional and playful ways.

- lessons learned by experiencing are often the most memorable.

- child-initiated learning and intrinsic motivation are powerful tools to be encouraged and valued.

- we are not limited to a particular curriculum, textbook, grade level or educational approach.

- we unashamedly borrow ideas from diverse education methods, philosophies and theories, to develop a unique blend that pleases and nourishes OUR children.

- there are many valid ways to explore subjects, share ideas and demonstrate skills.

- in our daily journey we share the joy of setting directions and modes of transport.

- the Lord, my husband and myself have God-given roles which aren't open to compromise.

- I'm a facilitator ... doors can be opened by the resources I provide and the experiences I plan.
- kind of like the Doctor's creed, I try to 'first do no harm' (I think it goes something like that).

A FEW MORE POINTS ...

- as a home educator I DO refer to curriculums (many, from all over the world) for ideas and suggestions of what the children might be interested in or need to know. Then I set most of it aside and just let learning happen. I sometimes respect and sometimes ridicule the outcomes and principles of our State and National curriculum. It's more important to me that my children keep their curiosity, have a chance to stretch their minds, and learn diligence and persistence.

- we DO use numerous 'schoolish' resources and ideas, as one of many tools, but I can't think of a program I have used in it's entirety ... I always feel the need to extract, tweak and condense. We skip liberally around grade levels to suit our children's needs and interests. Responses may be written, discussed, dictated or demonstrated in practical ways.

- if I think my children would benefit from improving a particular skill, I find (sometimes fun) ways to steer them in that direction and help them see why it's worth putting in some time and effort. Contrary to the bulk of unschooling theory, I DO at times use coersion, bribery and extrinsic motivators to assist with this. I expect my children to respect my judgement when differences arise, and balance this by aiming to respect my children's readiness, opinions, interests and learning styles.

- our family culture is an invisible but integral part of the learning experience our kids enjoy ... so I guess I'd describe our crew as faithful, playful, caring, energetic, affectionate, talkative, generous, creative, intellectual, busy but relaxed, peaceful but not quiet, sensible but often silly. Pete and I can both be a bit more bossy and authoritative than what I'd like at times. I sometimes get carried away on tangents of being industrious, introspective, distracted and multi-tasking. And I'm usually trying to do a zillion things at once.

- there are many reasons why Pete and I do things the way we do, and Scriptures which guide us when we have to chose between divergent paths. That doesn't mean I think we have all the answers, and I know every choice made has an opportunity cost and there'd be potentially different outcomes if we'd gone the other way. I have to accept the consequences of our choices, keep learning and seek the silver lining in the clouds which sometimes appear.

These are my honest reflections ... obviously a work in progress. So although I think I've written way too much and I don't know if it makes any sense, I'll send it out into cyberspace.

---------------------------------

Part Three, about the specifics of what we actually do, might take longer to compose. Sorry I'm taking so long to get to the practical bits!

What Unschooling and Natural Learning mean to me ... Part One

2010-07-02T04:28:00.000-07:00

I've noticed these are terms which elicit strong emotions. Many people haven't heard of either, but ask for a brief explanation (which I am NOT good at providing) or discuss it over a period of time. Depending on their personal understanding, experience and the people they've met, reactions vary widely and I've seen family, friends and strangers dismayed, awestruck, horrified, intrigued, quick to judge, interested, worried, skeptical, undecided, curious, relieved ...

One possible reason for people's strong opinions is that (in my short experience) there IS no absolute definition of Unschooling or Natural Learning. There is much written about these philosophies, and excellent books and websites with support, tips and terminology. But the extent to which it is applied varies a lot. Even the principles behind it are elusive, and by their very nature these methods are open to interpretation and individualised implementation. And THAT is what I have found so confusing, yet also comforting.

I could call us eclectic tidal lifelong learners, but eclectic home schoolers is easier. I'm not a Natural Learning or Unschooling purist, but it is an important part of the big picture of learning for us. Here are some WONDERFUL articles about N.L. and U.S. on blogs I read regularly and find inspiring:

FreePlayLife
Eclectic Homeschooling
An Unschooling Life
LibraryofBookLinksAndMore
Almost Unschoolers

(NOTE: I have other favourite blogs too, so forgive me if I've left you out!! I'm sure some of you have related posts and I spent ages sifting, but ran out of time before I found them. If you've written an article about what Unschooling and Natural Learning mean to YOU please put a link to it in the comments!)

These people have tried to explain what Unschooling and Natural Learning mean to them, and I've been encouraged by their example, seeing how they exercise their freedom of choice, to persist in finding my own way of home schooling, without pressure to use the labels in the same way as anyone else ... unless I want to :)

In the past two years I kept trying, but feeling it was impossible and futile, to define my home education philosophy. I'm not 'there' yet, but am glad to say I've learned a lot along the way and have gained a little more confidence. Amongst the many lessons learned, I've realised:

* Our homeschool will be whatever we need it to be, in order to reach the goals we (as a family and individuals) are working towards. Flexibility is one of the reasons we home educate, and we're free to change our methods to adapt to emerging interests, embrace opportunities and go with the flow of our life.

* Other people's opinions DO matter to me. Not in a weak, submissive way, but as part of the way I relate to people and view society. I'm capable of standing up for what I believe is right. Being able to articulate WHAT we do, WHY and HOW, in a concise way, is something I will probably continue to strive for, whether it's possible or not.

* I can't please everyone (and even if I wanted to it would be impossible), but I'm responsible for the choices I make on behalf of my children. I believe I'm accountable to God, my family, the government and to some extent, fellow home educators. I can explain why I reached this conclusion, but won't get into it now. It's a big responsibility to raise children and influence their perception and place in the world.

-------------------------------------------

In Part Two, I'll share what Natural Learning and Unschooling mean TO ME, and how they fit into the big picture of my education philosophy.

I may even write Part Three, which would be an example of how it all pans out during a typical week.

Please leave a comment. I'd love to hear people's thoughts about this!

On my mind ...

2010-07-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

I finally have snippets of time to gather my thoughts, write articles and finish a few drafted posts which have been cooking for a while. Hopefully something I write will inspire, help or amuse someone!

Some of the things I'm thinking about:

• Collating my jumbled records and plans for our upcoming Home Ed registration interview. I'm sorting out my ideas and paperwork on everything to do with it ... why, how, what etc. Loving the choices and freedom I have, and enjoying getting organised, but nervous about getting it right (note to self: there is no RIGHT!) My biggest battle is to keep it simple instead of doing mountains of unnecessary work!

• Health, mostly mine, which is mostly fine. I've finally seen a doctor after putting it off for ages. I had an ECG which was clear, as expected. There is something odd about my heart which showed up, but it's not dangerous or the cause of recent chest pain. A personal issue was discussed, but it's not life threatening and having read about the tests, treatments and undesirable side effects, we are committing it solely to prayer. And I'm considering doing a simplified elimination diet. I know I'm dairy intolerant, but cutting that and other known irritants from my diet hasn't fixed everything. On the up side, I'm glad my problems now are only physical, and also pretty minor compared to many people.

• Stuff. School stuff, clothing, linen, books, mending, hobbies, digital photos. I do pretty well at keeping down the clutter, but it's a battle. Our belongings need a bit of attention and sorting. Now that I have time I'm industriously sifting, storing and Op Shop bagging.

• Home, study, job and travel choices. We're blessed to have choices at all, and sometimes wonderful possibilities, but it can be hard to decide what to do when, and how the finances will all work out. As always, we simply need to trust in the Lord for provision and direction, and it will all work out for the best.

• Computer time. I've been researching a few things online and my eyes haven't coped well. My seldom-worn glasses are more of a hindrance than a help, so I guess it's time for another eye test. I also worry that I might spend too much time on here, and ought to be productive in other ways. Finding a balance is tricky sometimes. What do you do??

• Personality types. I read another couple of books and confirmed I am an INTJ. Introverted, iNtuitive, Thinking, Judging. Depending on the book I may be called a Logical Visionary, Scientist, Strategist, Rational Mastermind, Perfectionist. It all sounds pretty fancy and la-di-dah, but really they're all just words and I'm just ME. Out of curiosity I did find an online INTJ discussion group, but as fun as it is to meet like-minded people (we're rare, just 2-3% of the population), it's not high on my list of priorities.

• PLUS cooking for a fussy eater, sewing, home education philosophies, science topics, kids toys, book ideas, keeping warm, mindful parenting, cleaning, art projects, upcoming holidays ...

Whew! That's enough babble from me. It's more of a diary entry I suppose but somehow these thoughts jumped onto a blog page today. Perhaps it'll help you get to know me better!

Perfect sunny days

2010-07-02T02:47:00.000-07:00

The grassy dip around the corner.

A perfect place to run, ride, kick a ball or lay back and look at the clouds.

A beach just 20 mins down the road.

Just right for building sand castles, chasing sea gulls or burying a Barbie doll!

Our own backyard, local parks and the bush across the road.

It's all there for us to enjoy.

And we do!

More days than not.

It's great to be a home schooler, always ready to seize the day!!

Good guys ... kapow!

2010-06-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a violent story we use to help our children when they're sick.

I know that sounds terrible. I'm usually a pacifist. But please read on ...

We missed gymnastics and soccer yesterday. Both kids had fevers and sore throats, and by last night Jasmine was screaming with an earache. The after hours GP said both ears were red, and the worst one was fire engine red. Jasmine took some Panadol twice yesterday, but despite the pain, no way would she have Nurofen. She flatly refused all efforts to convince, bribe, threaten, explain ... she finally agreed to try, but only let a drop in before she pulled a face and covered her mouth again. The only pain relief she would accept were Panadol, prayer and cuddles.

Anyway, the GP sent us home with penicillin, and it was time to try a trick we learnt when Elijah had frequent tonsillitis and needed convincing to take his medicine ... let me introduce the GOOD GUYS.

There are germs inside you at the moment.

They are naughty, mean, smelly bad guys and they're making you sick ...

but here are some good guys who are on your side. They'll help you win the battle.

Antibiotics are good guys.

They run around inside your body and fight all the bad guys which are making you sick.

Kapow! Boom!

Gotcha! Take that!

You can't get away from me, bam!

Sshhhh, listen ... did you hear that?

I think they're working already. Hooray!!

This story (and many variations of it) used to be enough to convince my kids to take their antibiotics. They could still have a reward afterwards, but rewards alone didn't work. They needed the good guys versus bad guys story too.

It's oversimplified and probably scientifically inaccurate. I know the good guys also kill other good guys, but we deal with that (and have told the kids about probiotics) after the bad guys are gone. However silly it seems, it worked with toddlers. Would it work with a stubborn, tired, fussy little girl?

Mean parents that we are, we told Jasmine she couldn't go to bed until she'd had her antibiotics, even though she was begging to lay down. We insisted, pleaded, raved and asked nicely. After all that, only the story worked. The good guys won her trust with their promise to help. Plus she liked my idea of sneaking them in quickly when Daddy left the room! It took half an hour to get that first dose of penicillin in last night (around 1am, so it's no wonder I'm feeling a bit fuzzy today). Hooray for the good guys!

Jasmine's cooperating today, taking her medicine when asked to, and recovering very quickly.

Elijah slept through all the commotion last night and said he feels better too. Praise the Lord!

Birthday Girl

2010-06-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Jasmine is five. Her birthday was last week. We can see the lovely young lady she's becoming alongside traces of the baby she was. Snuggly, bouncy, lively, sleepy, talkative, imaginative, purposeful, cheeky, fussy, loving, demanding then helpful. Using 5 syllable words in the same sentence as ambliance and b'sketti. Five is such a joyful, exciting age. I'm energised and exhausted, enraptured and exasperated by my little darling.

Jasmine is such a puzzle. Sometimes so shy, but when comfortable she's a little whirlwind! We used to affectionately call her our "wooshka-booshka". I don't know if that's a new word, but there wasn't an invented word adequate to describe her mischievous, exuberant playfulness. Almost naughty. Often dangerous. Only by the grace of God has she made it to this age without breaking a bone or needing stitches ... thankyou Lord!

Jasmine age 2

We had a couple of Jasmine's friends over for afternoon tea to celebrate her 5th Birthday. Because of the small number of guests, she only took half an hour to get into the swing of things (in the picture below she's still warming up). Elijah greeted guests at the door wearing his Knight costume. The Princesses ate dainty cupcakes, fairy bread and fruit on pop sticks ...

... then played statues, puzzle races, a hula-hoop relay and ring-a-ring-of-rosies. Jasmine didn't want the same games as Elijah had at his party, and sagely requested the last one saying it would be "good for when everybody's too excited and overwhelmed"!!

Since I'd made 60 cupcakes (new recipe meets absent brain, oops!), the girls each decorated a few extras to take home (or quietly lose, if so wished by the parents, ha ha). I had made an icecream cake by starting with a frozen Sara Lee strawberry swirl cheesecake, then adding smarties and layers of white and strawberry icecream topped with sprinkles.

Ah, sweet love!

Crocodile Eggs for Writers

2010-06-20T21:42:00.000-07:00

by Vanessa Preston, 2006

Have you ever had the most BRILLIANT IDEA?

Bursting with energy, you rushed off to show it to someone. You couldn’t wait to see the look of awe and admiration on their face. Then …

BAM!

With one derisive snort or roll of the eyes, they ground your idea to a pulp.

“That’ll never work,” they say of your invention.

“It’s … interesting,” delivered with a fake smile.

“No-one reads fiction anymore,” and they hand back your novel with a sigh.

Sadly you sweep the remains of your idea and ego into the dustbin, and limp away nursing hurt feelings and wounded pride. And you wonder … are they right?

Press the pause button on this sad scenario, and imagine this …

Your new story is a baby crocodile. Once upon a time it was barely an inkling. But you patiently nurtured and protected this curious creature. Now it is squeaking, ready to hatch at any moment. You’re about to watch it break out into the big, wide world. It seems like a lifetime since you discovered the egg. Mysteriously it just appeared, but you had an inkling it would be something special one day. Something a bit like a baby crocodile …

In the beginning …

The shell was paper-thin. Transparent enough to see the forming skeleton. Before the egg became cloudy and strong, you glimpsed the form of a tiny reptile. So fragile. You tenderly wrapped it in tissues and tucked it inside your shirt.

Weeks later …

You are excited. The egg (which you’ve named Inkling) is gaining weight and growing rapidly. You spend hours looking lovingly at the pearly white shell. Like a proud parent you long to show off your little one. It’s getting hard to keep such a spectacular secret.

Surely it wouldn’t hurt to let a trusted friend take a peek at the little Inkling?

At this point the story is up to you.

Like a pick-a-path adventure, YOU decide what happens next. Read the choices at the top of the columns, choose one, and read on to see how the story ends.

A. You show a friend. She cringes and comments on every blemish. You’re convinced a closer look will convert the sceptic. You hand her your Inkling.	B. Again you show a friend. This time, when he starts to poke and prod the Inkling, you make a hasty retreat.	C. You hide the Inkling away from prying eyes. When someone spies your treasure you ask them to wait just a little longer.
A. Surely once your friend feels the tender heartbeat and silky smooth shell, she will have to agree this is the most wondrous thing she has ever seen. She’ll have to understand how precious it is. But your friend isn’t as sensitive as you. She squeezes a bit too hard, and SQUIRT. Clumsily she misses the point and SPLAT. After a quick glance, she leaves it on the windowsill and SIZZLE. You are devastated. All that is left of your Inkling is a sticky puddle and a shrivelled up shell. Sorry, but it’s impossible to revive this one.	B. You have rescued the egg … but damage has been done. Your trust your friend, and his opinion is important to you. You start to question your unconditional love for the little creature. Maybe you are paying it too much attention? Maybe it really is a bit ugly? You start to neglect it, forget about it, starve it. Or maybe you try to make it more appealing to others with popular colours and a fashionable name. The once-translucent shell is now blurred by fingerprints, scratched and scarred. Lonely and unloved, your Inkling is fading. Some careful nursing might save it, but the odds aren’t great.	C. You nurture and protect your Inkling. Safe from harm, it develops legs and flexes it’s muscles. You pay no heed to pessimists. Your job is to keep the Inkling warm, and shelter it from predators. In time the Inkling will outgrow it’s shell. With pecking and poking it will at last wriggle free. Congratulations! The Inkling has a good chance at survival. For now, you’ll still have to feed it, rescue it when it strays too far, and teach it to fend for itself. But it may one day grow up to be the biggest, boldest crocodile in the river.

Inklings grow into ideas, like baby crocodiles forming inside their shells.

Perhaps the analogy goes too far – but those baby crocodiles are just so cute!

So, how do you look after them?

Ideas are fragile, and like crocodile eggs they need:

- time – don’t be too quick to expose them to the harsh light of day

- attention – play with them, feed them, marvel and enjoy them

- protection – guard against vandals, predators, thieves and critics

Ideas differ from crocodile eggs in these important ways:

- you can shut an idea in a drawer and still maybe revive it years later

- one idea can be divided into a crèche-full of inklings and inspirations

- ideas are easier to find than crocodile eggs – if you know where to look!

Writers, thinkers, artists … keep a notepad or sketchbook handy, and write ideas as they come. Later might be too late. Jot down one-word, or do a quick draft if you have time. When you make a habit of acknowledging ideas as they come, they’ll come more often.

Treat your inklings and ideas like crocodile eggs. They might be grand one day, but as infants they need protection and nurture. Sit on them. Keep them warm. Believe in them.

Hopefully they will survive, and when they grow up you’ll be the proudest parent alive!

Getting back into writing?

2010-06-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

I read Kez's post about getting back into writing this morning ... I think it's awesome! And inspiring. Go for it Kez!!

I hope I don't sound like a copy-cat, but I might soon be doing the same ... I haven't said much about the 'writer' part of myself in this blog. Mostly because I haven't been writing for the last few years (unless you count home school forums, blogs and emails). There's some negotiating and stock-taking to be done, but the momentum is building.

For the record, I stopped writing because:

1. It took too much of my time and attention away from my family. They were jealous and probably had every right to be. I needed to get back to basics and be a good mum and wife first.

2. I started to question myself about the 'what' and 'why' of writing, and couldn't answer my questions well enough to justify continuing. I was stuck on the "all is vanity" soundtrack, and didn't want to waste the time God had given me.

3. Life was fast and frantic at home with two toddlers, Pete returning to work (after being a full-time dad) and starting our home-schooling journey.

4. I chickened out. I had a publisher accept a proposal for some short stories (for an education series), but I froze because I was scared I wouldn't do a good enough job. I pulled out rather than risk failing.

5. I had a lot of writing projects in progress at once, and couldn't decide which ones to develop and which ones to set aside.

I'm determined not to think myself into a hole over all of this. But I think I might have moved on to a healthier frame of mind since then. I'm ready to take myself less seriously and have fun with it.

So all things considered, maybe I'm ready to jump back into the inkpot, and take stock of where I got to. I have a shelf full of drafts, plot plans, and rejection letters. Some of my stories were good training ground and are better left unfinished. But I'm hoping there may be a few projects with potential in amongst the mess!

While I'm at it I have some things to share. A few years ago I wrote some articles about WRITING.
Some of them were published in writer's magazines, e-zines or newsletters. But that's long ago and there's no point in them gathering cyber-dust if they can be of use to someone. I'll post the first article today. If you have any friends who write, feel free to send them a link.

Birthday boy

2010-06-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

We've been celebrating Elijah's 6th Birthday for weeks! He had an early party with friends and family a couple of weeks ago, which was a ton of fun! Here's the birthday boy with his cake ...

... a freshly baked banana cake filled with cream and bananas, dusted with cocoa powder and decorated in a 2 minute frenzy while the guests were outside taking turns to launch a rocket (a pump action toy from National Geographic). I'd forgotten to look for the birthday candle box, but Elijah didn't seem worried.

We had another cake on his actual birthday, shared with new friends (a home schooling family from Darwin who are traveling in a caravan for over a year ... we met them at our church conference on the weekend). How exciting to have them visit our home and hear about their adventures, which are just like the dream we're working towards! I'm sure we could've talked for a week.

Here's Elijah on his new bike yesterday ... we took it out the front and he just jumped right on and took off! Not even a wobble. That was a cool moment! He wasn't expecting a bike either, which made it even sweeter.

Since Pete was home I grabbed my bike and took Elijah for a spin down to the park. Being mid-week, we had the place to ourselves, and went silly trying out the BMX jumps. Pete helped Jasmine adjust Elijah's old bike to her liking (attaching her pink bell and doll carrier, and putting the training wheels back on).

It's been a GREAT couple of weeks celebrating this birthday. Now we're swinging into action for Jasmine's 5th birthday, soon to be upon us. Jasmine was born when Elijah was 1 year and 10 days old. She's enjoyed making his birthday special, and I'm so glad for her that her turn is now here!

While I can't believe they're already 6 and almost 5, it's so incredibly wonderful to think about their lives so far, and to snuggle in the love we share. Sure there's conflict and stubborn standoffs and selfishness, in all of us, but above all it's just TOO amazing, such a privilege to be their Mum.

Glorious rainy days

2010-06-08T16:11:00.000-07:00

I meant to jot a quick comment in response to Renelle's lovely Wet, Wet, Wet post and got totally carried away, so thought it'd be better to share here instead.

We live in the same region as Renelle, and have enjoyed the recent rain too ...

Across the road from us is a bush reserve. We went over to play on the grassy footpath when the sun came out one afternoon (since the creek, normally a dry ditch, is too full to cross into the bush itself). Elijah delighted in riding his bike back and forth in the mud, slipping about in the boggiest bits. Jasmine enjoyed squelching and sliding in the mud with almost-bare feet. A warm bubble bath followed, of course!

Another day they played for a wonderful hour in the backyard, in the pouring rain, on their swings and dinkies ... without raincoats which were snug and dry in the car, which Dad had at work! Jasi and Elijah's favourite discovery after rain is always is a bucket (or dump truck) full of rainwater. These become the basis of many of their favourite backyard recipes (just add fern leaves, bark, a sprinkling of gravel, and unfortunately once, several handfuls of clean tissues).

And I mustn't leave out a very brave under 6's soccer game, played in freezing rain a couple of weeks ago. We arrived early to have the team photo taken (in the rain), then waited around under the clubhouse awning. We really expected an announcement that all games were cancelled. But no, the game must go on! So we set up and waited for a team to play against. I guess most people assumed it would be cancelled, but enough kids turned up to play, even if we did swap players to make up numbers (4 a side). The game was slightly chaotic (with kids running off if the ball hit them, which REALLY hurts when you're cold). The teams were well-matched, and a few goals were actually kicked. We were wet and freezing, but smiling, and proud of our muddy little boys.

Yep, kids know how to make the most of rainy days!

Time for living

2010-06-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

G'day. I've been a silent blogger for a while ... only just finding time to read blogs. For all the blogs you write, many of which I haven't left comments for recently ... thanks for writing them, I enjoy reading them immensely!

We're finally all better (after a minor but prolonged virus), hooray! Our holiday in Coffs Harbour was brilliant, so good that I couldn't blog about it, because I wanted to stay there forever. The weather was perfect and so deliciously warm, and in every direction there were adventures to have and places to explore ... but I feared to write that would make me sound ungrateful for our pretty terrific home life. Which isn't the case, I really love my home and family and lifestyle. Thankfully after a few days back at home I regained my contentment and got stuck into LIFE again.

My problem then was winter ... it always gets to me, and I end up wishing we could move somewhere warm for just a few months each year (and perhaps one day we will). But after a week of grumbling about being so cold it hurt, I decided to embrace it. Life's been easier since making that choice, with the help of some long cosy jumpers, fur lined boots, a hot water bottle and plans for our first trip to the snow.

So back to LIFE. May and June have been (and will be) busy in a good way, with lots of excursions, kids competing with me for computer time, play dates, creative projects, FBI co-op, sports, coordinating childcare for our church's state conference (next weekend) and celebrating our children's birthdays (which are later this month but that hasn't stopped us getting in early!)

What's happening with school you may ask? I asked myself that too. It sometimes seems like the last item on the agenda, so I've returned a routine. I've scheduled in our outside activities and TV times which are fairly predictable, plenty of free time and even meal times (mainly because Jasi gets remarkably tired and grumpy when her blood sugar drops). I can already see it is helping. All term the kids have been a bit unsettled, arguing and attention seeking, but today they asked to do 'schooling' and got stuck into their work and have played more happily together too. That's not to say we'll keep to the routine ... a sunny day will always entice us outside! Our recent home ed. recipe has been perhaps 50% natural learning, and 50% eclectic homeschool ... shared books, unit studies, posters, craft, games, excursions, workbooks, computer, conversation, TV, music, storytelling. Having said that I'm not as hung up about what to call our method of education. Learning is happening and life is good!

I hope to get back into more frequent writing in July. I like a record of what's been happening, so I don't think back and wonder where all the days went. Also it's nice to look back on the fun we've had, changes, triumphs, adventures, decisions, challenges etc. Writing helps me make sense of things.

Well for a short post, this has ended up pretty long!! It's fun to be back. I might be a bit more random in the topics I write about when I get around to it, because whilst home schooling is a HUGE and wonderful part of my life and is often the easiest thing to share, I didn't intend for it to be the only thing I write about. There'll probably be a few out of order snapshots to catch up on too.

See you round!

Holidays in la la land

2010-04-28T04:31:00.000-07:00

Hopefully I'll be back with something interesting to say soon. I have things to say now (about soccer, music, FBI, unit studies, bike riding, beaches and ... what else?) It's just that my thoughts are kind of lost in the crush of busy days. Oh yes, and I can't seem to string together a coherent sentence.

We've been sick with a sore throat, headache and swollen glands virus. It has rendered me tired and without much intelligence to spare. The kids and Pete are like me, up and down, so we're always juggling each other's moods and needs. We're doing better than simply surviving each day, but I don't feel completely conscious. It's a dreamy, happy but odd existence.

As a result, our fortnight of school holidays have effectively morphed into a month off (aside from the life-learning which of course, thankfully continues). We've cancelled some activities when we all felt lousy, then really enjoyed others when we had a burst of energy. Energy is a fickle thing at present.

And now for another holiday!! We've just decided to go away for a week or part thereof ... heading north of course, to escape the bone-aching coldness which is creeping in each night. Hooray!

See you again once we're back to normal (whatever normal is)!

Comparing the incomparable

2010-04-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

The backstory:
Last week we went to the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. There are so many exhibits for the kids to interact with, so of course it's a fun place to go. But I was stuck in a black cloud. Pretty rare these days, but we were all out of sorts for a week after eating chocolate for a week! For starters, I couldn't decide what to wear, because it had been raining so my jeans would drag in the puddles and I'd be wet all day. Like it was the end of the world! So then I was also ashamed of being so ... human? Luckily Pete had enough patience for both of us, and with some prayer I was strong enough to soldier on, so we eventually all got in the car and set out for our adventure. The kids had fun.

I survived the day and most importantly of all (just kidding) I have since bought some rainy-day jeans which don't drag in puddles. Thankfully, I also found my sense of humour and smile again!

The journey:
I'm not actually comparing the incomparable ... I just liked the way that sounded. It's really just me rambling!

So back to the drive through Sydney. I'm not a city person ... I feel sorry for all those rushing, striving people (even though I know lots of them probably love it)! But I'm always curious, intrigued and a little over-awed when I see big boarding schools, like Knox, Kings and Abbotsleigh. I have often thought, hypothetically, about being a teacher or student there, comparing it to my small-town, public school experience. This time when we drove past the private schools, I was imagining what it would be like to send our kids, our precious little darlings, there. Into the big brick abyss. I may as well have been looking for a rental home in an African zoo! I just couldn't imagine it for us, nor begin to comprehend how people do it.

Now, I know that many people have no choice (at least none that they can see). And that many others see these places as the ultimate educational environment for their children. I also know the many virtues these schools claim for their attendees ... I have taught in one (though thankfully it was an old-fashioned country one, but still poles apart from my humble, happy childhood). Tradition, social graces, academic excellence, sports, diverse subjects ... there is a lot of opportunity for children to have amazing experiences, find their talents and excel in every way, reach their potential and conquer the world. And many do!!

But imagining MY kids there? I couldn't form a mental picture of it. These schools are so BIG, so SCHEDULED and PRESCRIBED.

Elite, private schools are not even the point really ... if I WAS enrolling my kids in school, it would have to be a small, family-like one, which probably doesn't exist yet, except perhaps in Finland or Sweden (a long commute from our island home, Australia).

The conclusion:
Perhaps it's a forgone conclusion, and of course it's not a revelation or lightning bolt moment. My kids belong with me and other people who know and love them ... at home, in the park, library, rockpools, on a riverbank or in the bush. I don't mind if they're missing the opportunities offered by public or private school education ... they're too busy living to care (!) and I have complete confidence they will one day know who they are and reach whatever goals they set. I love the freedom we've chosen. We explore overgrown paths, follow rabbit trails and marvel at shooting stars. We learn wonderful and fascinating things about the world, ourselves and all kinds of subjects. Not in the sequential, orderly way that schools often choose. It's noisy, random and messy.

I'm not trying to be definitive or comprehensive ... just thinking aloud. Here are some of the educational values I find important:

* Inspire, challenge, trust, share
* Provide a rich and varied diet for kids to taste and feast on
* Children are people, individuals, the future, becoming who they are
* Balance freedom and boundaries, always with love and respect
* Time is a gift, not to be wasted or hurried
* Nurture creativity, live in colour, discover rainbows
* My children are explorers, but can ask for directions any time they like

I don't pretend to have all the answers. We're not perfect. I'm not claiming these values are unique to home ed, that all school is bad or all home ed is good. I'm just reflecting, and I'm really thankful for our freedom.

Backyard signs

2010-04-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

Like many children, my son is enthralled by excavators, backhoes, cranes and other work vehicles. Worksites, heavy vehicle yards, construction vehicle shops ... he would look, explore and talk for hours!

As he plays for hours in the gravel in our backyard, a sit-on excavator (not shown but gleefully received) was the perfect toy. Well, the best would have been a REAL mini-backhoe, but we have neither the budget nor the space for one of those (and perhaps he's just a little to young).

To add to the fun and make the mess construction zone look more intentional, I decided to make him a few wooden signs. We gave him a few for Christmas, but have only just finished mounting them (it doesn't matter, Elijah loved helping his dad with the drilling and cementing).

The signs are each set in an icecream tub of cement, so they don't fall over, but the children can move them to suit their purpose. One is a blank canvas of chalkboard paint ... so far it has displayed 'bus stop', 'one way' with an arrow, 'fun this way' and 'work vehicles only'. Jumbo chalk completes the picture, for drawing roads and zebra crossings all over the pavers.

More home-made, open-ended fun!

Intense motherhood

2010-03-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

A while ago this was shared on one of the blogs I read regularly (I'm sorry I've forgotten which one):

Motherhood photo essay

I love playing with words but I'm glad someone else has expressed in pictures, music and words what is so hard to articulate ... fierce, selfless love for our children.

I hope you enjoy it!

Vanessa

A mammoth month!

2010-03-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

March has been incredibly full ... I'm sure to miss things but here's an attempt to summarise what we've been up to!

A trip south ... My brother Joe stayed here then travelled with the kids and I to my cousin's wedding at a south coast golf course (the bridal party arrived in trucks!) We saw LOTS of relatives from far and wide. On the way we stopped at the Sydney Aquatic centre (home of 2000 Olympics) with it's HUGE kids water-play zone ... we all thought the whirlpool was the best! We then stayed at Dad's place, where the kids were kept busy in the garden, potting plants to bring home and watching the men lay pavers. Dad (Pop) took the kids to the park to monkey around, and we showed them how to make a daisy chain. We also celebrated my Nanna's (Oma to my kids) birthday at my aunty's house and the kids had a swim in her new pool. We had dinner in a Chinese restaurant on the way home. What a lot of fun packed into 3 days!

Rock climbing with some of our home school friends ... It was the first time for my children. They started on the practice wall, and soon Jasi was harnessed up and going for it on the big walls and ladder. Elijah only wanted to watch until the last 5 minutes, so we'll have to go back soon for him to try it. Lunch at the park afterwards was really nice so they could get to know a few friends better.

Lady's camp ... (without kids) I took two ladies from church for a day trip at Vacy (most stayed for the whole weekend) . The drive out there was so peaceful. I love driving into a rural area and just feeling everything slow down. It was a relaxing and refreshing day with new and old friends, including my mum. We all went out for dinner, and then back at camp in teams put on skits, before the long drive home. It was SO nice to have long conversations and not be needed for a little while.

Shopping ... Somewhere in there Mum and I took the kids by car, train and bus (just for the experience) into town to the wonderful hobby shop. So finally Jasi had a chance to spend her Christmas gift money on furniture for her dolls house. Elijah chose a car set as usual. The kids and I also caught a bus to visit a friend and her adorable baby.

Swimming ... It's been a great month for swimming, so we've been to a few new pools and the ocean baths and rockpools. Jasmine has loved swimming lessons with the home ed. group. She can swim well for a few metres, and is learning how to breathe to the side. Elijah loves swimming too and had a few good lessons, but mostly didn't like the group lessons (too cold, change of teacher, change of pool).

Soccer ... Elijah has had a few training sessions now and three practice games. He loves being with his teammates, was a good sport when his team played a stronger team, and scored two goals. It's exciting to watch him having fun and improving each week as his confidence grows!

FBI ... We've had (as of tomorrow) three more meetings of our home ed. kids enrichment group. We're getting 20-30 kids each fortnight and it's going really well, as we have fun and get to know each other. In addition to games:

* We made and tested boats from foil and plasticine which float and carry a load, constructed boats using recycled materials, and did oil pastel and food dye art. A big stick and ball set was used by about 15 kids to make a huge frame which we covered to make a cubby house.

* I put on an interactive science show (colour chromatography, swirling in milk and density rainbows in a glass) and another mum led a story dramatisation, involving mask making and multiplication! The tap-tap activity (hammering wooden pieces in pictures/patterns) was very popular. We also had a microscope and marble run space set.

* Tomorrow there will be a circus show (demos of tricks some kids have learned) and a chance for other children to try a few circus skills. We will also make chocolates, fold and decorate baskets to put them in, paint with watercolours and do colouring patterns or make an egg tangram puzzle. I'm also doing a quick maths workshop with patterns, brainteasers and puzzles which we'll solve together. Games, dressups, skipping, music ... it'll be a fun day!

Friends ... We've had three play dates at friends houses, each very lovely and special, and morning tea at a cafe with a group of grown-up friends. Our friend ('uncle' Mark) came for dinner and listened to the kids read books (he's always a good sport and often reads them Dr Seuss stories in a silly voice). A birthday party at a pool was a chance to meet friends of friends. At a masquerade ball the kids wore costumes and face paint (lion and fairy), and were excited (and Jasi at times was scared) by all the characters and acts we saw.

Family ... Visits to ALL of the kids grandparents (3 homes) have given us warm fuzzy feelings! We've also spent time with both of my brothers and my nephew Nathan. We played table tennis and enjoyed a new swing set at Mum's place. At Pete's parents place we chatted and played Mastermind, the kids read them stories and Jasi did a 48 piece puzzle. Mum came here for an 'unbirthday' party (an excuse to give the kids some incredibly cute bears she'd bought!)

Dance, drama and music ... They've obviously had less free time, with all of the above going on, but have played happily on their real instruments (violin, guitar, drums, keyboard) and music toys. They sing and make up new songs, act like animals, doctors, shop keepers, Bible characters and performers. Today Jasi has dressed up in full ballet costume and has asked Elijah to be her choreographer (so he's directing her to do leaps, pirouettes, tip toe like a butterfly etc).

Craft and play ... Jasi and I did some pen and paint wash sketches in the style of Quentin Blake, our favourite illustrator. The kids sewed a set of felt finger puppets each, and have started another sewing project. We used the box from our new hot water system to make a great submarine. They drew and coloured many pictures to stick on as decorations. I cut portholes and the kids made a periscope, hatch and control panel. It was fun but now they like to fill it with toys, which they then don't hurry to put away. This is in addition to the 'display' of toys on the lounge, the shop in the dining room and their lived-in bedrooms ... my computer desk is just as bad so I can't nag them too much.

School work ... Ha ha! There have been few 'normal' days this month! We've done bits and pieces of workbooks, journals, flashcard games, maths activities and occasional short phonics or reading lessons. We always share a lot of books (in our Roald Dahl read-alouds we finished Elijah's "Fantastic Mr Fox" and all together, started "James and the Giant Peach"). Both are doing the Premier's Reading Challenge this year (only Elijah did it last year) and we've enjoyed a lot of library books, audio books and the kids animal magazine "Crikey!" Otherwise, just learning from life and TV, computer lessons like Reading Eggs and books.

In my spare time ... I've been mostly ON duty, and loving it too, but sometimes I tune out with some cooking or reading young-adult novels, home ed. blogs and online articles. And finally I'm about to enjoy my first sale on eBay! We're selling a car cover Pete's work gave him which he never used, and we have 3 bidders, hooray.

Ought to do ... The list is growing! I need to declutter my desk, organise or do carpet cleaning, iron a basket full of clothes, hem Pete's work pants and jeans (bought a year or two ago), mend broken toys, fix potted plants (the tomato and strawberries are looking sad) and ... write a to do list.

So at the end of this MAMMOTH month, that's about all I can remember and I'm sure it's more than anyone has time to read! Hopefully in April I'll write as we go, so it doesn't end up being an essay!

Great ideas

2010-03-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

I think some of you will enjoy these ideas, if you haven't come across them before.

I love this idea for helping children listen to and remember instructions:
http://www.mommycoddle.com/2010/03/simple-schooling-part-1.html

The same author has a good idea for sparking creative writing or storytelling too:
http://www.mommycoddle.com/2010/03/simple-schooling-part-2.html

And this is something I've been following and we'll try soon :
http://kidswhothink.blogspot.com/
(I LOVE problem-solving, brainteasers and puzzles!)

I haven't posted much about what we've been doing recently ... there just hasn't been a moment to catch my breath and share any of it, and there's a LOT to share. Lot's of fun, learning, sports and socialising! Expect a huge 'what's been happening' post soon, along with a few other thoughts that have been in the melting pot recently.

:) Vanessa

Little Aussie Adventurers

2010-03-02T02:22:00.000-08:00

We were going to have a coastal holiday on the weekend, but hadn't booked in advance ... so we were free to change our minds and went camping in the mountains instead. We went to a place called Frying Pan Creek, which is on the southern side of Barrington Tops.

Making a camp fire

(or a smoke signal, which is about all we managed with wet wood)

Swimming in the icy cold river

(the kids had wetsuits, but poor daddy didn't!)

We didn't see any snakes, but we saw what I'm pretty sure were funnel-web spider holes. I removed a leech from one of our bags, but thankfully bugs were few and stayed away from us. Our car came home proudly sporting a thick coat of red dust ... the true sign of a fun weekend!

I won't whinge about the dirty, bug-breeding pit toilets, other people's dogs, roadblocks or an overexcited girl who couldn't get to sleep. They were insignificant compared to the joy of being in the bush, with my favourite people, exploring new places and having fun together.

A warm shower and leisurely swim at a heated pool on the way home was a nice, clean end to our holiday.

Precious moments

2010-03-02T02:01:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the highlights of our last fortnight:

• There were many visits to local swimming pools!! We're getting in lots of swimming while the weather is warm and the kids are keen.

• Mum met us for a visit to a local art gallery. Elijah is shown next to his favourite art work. Then we went to Jaycar and bought lots of electronics kits and transport project kits ... for not much money at all.

• Many hours of electronics and boat building projects followed as we enjoyed our thrifty purchases.

• We babysat some cousins for a day, and it was remarkable how well they all played together! The boys built emergency vehicles with meccano, and the girls played a variety of games involving assorted kinds of dolls. It was nice for my children to have older playmates.

• Most days we watched an hour or so of Winter Olypmics together whilst eating lunch.

• Jasmine had her first two violin lessons (I'm teaching her, in my learn-together-as-we-go way). She's super keen and wants to move ahead at lightening speed. She's picking things up quickly, but I just hope she has the patience to practice the basics occasionally.

• Elijah had his soccer muster day, so now he has met his team mates and coach. We haven't needed to buy any gear either, with people offering us everything at just the right moments! I hope Elijah does as well in his boots as his cousin did!!

• My kids are always pretty musical - they've done a lot of guitar playing, composing, improvising, singing, a bit of drumming, and electronic keyboard playing. It's been a noisy week, but I love hearing them pouring their hearts into music, and some of the spontaneous lyrics are very funny.

• Pete came with us to the local Home Educators Swimming Carnival. Jasmine went in some races, including a noodle race and a boogie board relay. Elijah didn't want to join in, but played in the wading pool all day. It was nice to relax amongst friends for the day.

• I'm not sure when we finished reading Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, by Roald Dahl. Our new read-together is James and the Giant Peach. I'm sneaking in another book with just Elijah, when we can grab a moment alone, Fantastic Mr Fox, also by Dahl. We're also enjoying picture books and lots of Bible stories.

• Bike riding, lessons, videos, music, dancing, playing, cooking, housework, shopping ... all the usual things happened too. Oh, and lots of painting, straw-craft and plasticine modeling.

Life is a lovely blur!

What I know

2010-02-24T02:04:00.000-08:00

I found this video on http://eclectic-homeschool.blogspot.com/ ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4hOu8ls8T4&feature=player_embedded

It made we want to write my own statements along the same lines.
I'm not intending to judge people or systems, or to persuade or lecture ... just expressing some personal thoughts of the moment ...

I don't know much, but I know I'm constantly learning.

I don't know why many children aren't given the respect, freedom and resources to show their real passions and potential, or why some adults expect so little of children. I know many children have talents they never get the chance to discover, and I know children are complete, complex people.

I don't know why the weaknesses of educational institutions are blamed on lack of funding. I do know real learning is more limited by attitude and creativity than budget.

I don't know why some lovely kids have no friends, and some mean kids have a crowd of followers, but I know my kids are best friends forever.

I don't know why bullying is tolerated and not swiftly dealt with, but I know my kids won't grow up accepting it as normal.

I don't know why ineffective teachers aren't retrained, disciplined or removed from school systems. I know people whose education was set back by a bad school year.

I don't know why kids should sit through subjects they understood years earlier, when they could be learning something new in a library, science lab or a mentor's kitchen or garage.

I DO know we have a lot of fun with handwriting ... we write with chalk, textas, a keyboard, etch-a-sketch, bath crayons, coloured pens, pattern pegs, glitter glue, whiteboard markers, sand, string, playdough and paint.

I know every other subject is likewise a kaleidoscope of possibilities waiting to be explored!!

I don't know much ... but I DO know ...
- the joy of starting our 'school' days early and finishing by morning tea time
- books are best shared whilst snuggled up on the lounge
- maths mastery doesn't need to be proven with a written test
- when children are trusted they often prove to be trustworthy
- children are born wanting to learn
- my kids know they are cherished
- some days are better spent at the beach!

I know it's hard to go and do the housework when I'd rather play with my kids.

I know when I'm busy around the house, my kids amuse themselves quite creatively (and messily and noisily!) and it's not 'wasted' time.

I'm glad we sometimes cook pancakes for second breakfast, and we have fun making fresh food for morning tea and lunch.

I love home education and being able to share diverse experiences with my children.

I love living and learning seasonally, tidally, naturally.

I know I'm not perfect.

I know my children. The good, the difficult and the adorable!

Slime school!

2010-02-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

We have wonderful friends with older children, and when they clean out their kids cupboards they offer us all kinds of treasure. Past gifts have included floor puzzles, road works figures and a TMNT (Ninja Turtle) castle, vehicle and turtles!

Last night they gave us a bag of goodies, including two pots of 'Mutating Ooze'.
SLIME!!!

The kids woke up talking about slime. They wrote about slime in their diary / journals this morning (what they expected it to be like ... I said we'll glue in pictures afterwards). Then we had fun thinking of real and nonsense words to rhyme with slime, mess and goop.

Then it was time for slime ...

I think they liked it!!