Today J continued working on his Harry Potter worksheets, whilst S sat down to write a story. I've suggested that once he finishes, he submits it to KidPub.
In the afternoon, I had the lady from HANDS Rochester come around. She brought two ladies wishing to volunteer in the community, who were interested in working with us.
They left full of ideas and possibilities, and fired up about home education! Hopefully, they will now come back to us to offer an amount of time each week that they would like to help out. It's a great way for us to find people with skills willing to teach the children. I'd recommend any UK HE group to contact their local volunteer bureau in that manner.
In the evening, I heard from my parents - Dad has been diagnosed as having coeliac disease. It was obviously God's Hand at work, where I have spent the past few months looking into gluten free diets, for the boys, as I was able to help my Mum understand what this meant. I rang up the main supermaket chains and asked them to post her a list of their gf products, and tomorrow I will drive up to take her shopping - plus take her some bits that I have here.
It's a shock, but at least now we understand why the treatment for the ulcer wasn't working, and why he has been so ill. The good news is that this is something we can fight/deal with. However, my Father is someone rather set in his ways over food and the sort of changes he now needs to make will be tough. In his late sixties, to start having to be so very strict, careful, reading labels etc on everything, will not come easily. Please pray that his desire to get better - for his own sake and that of his family - will help him overcome his reticence, and that he will find the strength to face this.
I've just come back from trying to help some friends get their pc set up and on the internet for the first time, so I'm running late. Off to get the boys to bed quick, so I still get some "me" time.
ps we had some snow here today - it lasted 15 minutes!
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006
A normal day
This morning was quite odd, getting up without J and dh here. S was quiet, and very well behaved, telling me he "was in charge as I'm the oldest man here today", bless him. We have definately noticed the diet change helping him far more than it so far has affected J.
We went out via the post office to post an eBay parcel, then off to Nanny's house. J had a nice evening there it seems, watching documentaries with Nanny and enjoying a good chin wag with her. I know that the change in diet is gradually being accepted by S - on the way up to his Nan's him and W were playing "the shopping game". It consisted of them being an "intergalatic shopping mall" (goodness knows where he gets his ideas from) that delivered to your door. When I ordered some sausages, I got offered "normal or gluten free?"!
In the afternoon, my interview with the two researchers from the BBC went well. The subject got onto home education, and they got so interested that they ran over time by nearly 40 minutes! It will be interesting to see whether anything comes of this or not. They asked me what a "normal" day was like. It took me about 20 minutes to explain that there was no such thing for an HE family - which was half the fun.
I came back with the children with our car, but fortunately dh is going to be able to get a lift with another colleague who lives down the road from us (and whose family is in our HE group!) who happens to finish the same time as him (after 1am). That's good - it means I won't need a hot water bottle tonight - last night I went to be in my dressing gown as the bed was so cold!
Educational link for the day - the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English has some good lesson plans.
Food for thought - a quote from Alec Bourne - "It is possible to store the mind with a million facts and still be entirely uneducated." Think I'll have that above the door the day the LEA Inspector comes to visit!
We went out via the post office to post an eBay parcel, then off to Nanny's house. J had a nice evening there it seems, watching documentaries with Nanny and enjoying a good chin wag with her. I know that the change in diet is gradually being accepted by S - on the way up to his Nan's him and W were playing "the shopping game". It consisted of them being an "intergalatic shopping mall" (goodness knows where he gets his ideas from) that delivered to your door. When I ordered some sausages, I got offered "normal or gluten free?"!
In the afternoon, my interview with the two researchers from the BBC went well. The subject got onto home education, and they got so interested that they ran over time by nearly 40 minutes! It will be interesting to see whether anything comes of this or not. They asked me what a "normal" day was like. It took me about 20 minutes to explain that there was no such thing for an HE family - which was half the fun.
I came back with the children with our car, but fortunately dh is going to be able to get a lift with another colleague who lives down the road from us (and whose family is in our HE group!) who happens to finish the same time as him (after 1am). That's good - it means I won't need a hot water bottle tonight - last night I went to be in my dressing gown as the bed was so cold!
Educational link for the day - the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English has some good lesson plans.
Food for thought - a quote from Alec Bourne - "It is possible to store the mind with a million facts and still be entirely uneducated." Think I'll have that above the door the day the LEA Inspector comes to visit!
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Our New Family Member
Well, today we went to see the newest arrival to the family.
We arrived just as the little fellow needed to feed. The boys were very excited and had to be kept outside the room whilst their little cousin fed, as they were so hyped up. We took over a giant fluffy bunny to stand guard on our behalf in his bedroom, as well as a lovely quilted playmat ready for when he is on the floor and our hand made card.
Little T is gorgeous (obviously takes after his Mum rather than my Brother lol).
I've found it a strangely emotional day - pride in their new arrival, family love, as well as an ache for another little lad of my own. Dh and I love being parents - yes even taking into account the bad days - and I can see what leads families to keep adding to their numbers.
After the visit, we went back to Mum's for a meal. Mum did her best, but they had some gluten in some ingredients of the meal. I need to make/bake some stuff and leave up there, as well as some basics, for when we are up there.
It was good for Mum to have some company as she is finding it hard coping with Dad at times, with his illness. Sadly, he is suffering with depression as a result of this illness. Nothing we can say or do seems to reach him and I really don't know how/when/if this is going to change. In the meantime, he is spending all day sitting in the chair, not eating, and in a lot of pain. He is due to see the specialist on Tuesday and my brother is going with him, to try and push things along.
J asked to stay overnight at his Nan's, and dh is staying there too. I've brought the other two home with me, and we'll go back up tomorrow. In the afternoon I am due to meet a lady researcher from the BBC about "stay at home mums". I'd value prayers for the interview.
How about an educational link of the day? If you fancy something a bit different, how about looking at potatoes? Potatoes for Schools have worksheets aimed at primary and secondary levels, as well as recipes and (if you are in the UK) details on arranging a visit to your local potato farm.
If you are looking for resources for projects for March, have a look at the Resource page for our group.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Birds of a feather
It has been bitterly cold today, with a strong north wind. Some forecasts say we may be in for some more snow but, this being England, I won't hold my breath!
I came across a great maths site today, from one of the home ed lists that I am on. The Centre for Innovation in Mathematics Teaching has practice books, copymasters and lesson plans for all year groups up to A level. I am going to be using the Primary section for the boys.
I love the way that with home education you can follow every query, question and sidetrack of the children. This evening's question was "why don't birds get electrocuted sitting on power lines?" Do you know? Apparently Animals are damaged by electricity only when it flows through them. A bird sitting on a power line is surrounded by air, which is a good insulator. No current flows through the bird, and there is no harm done. For the same reason, maintenance workers can sit on live transmission lines as long as they get there using insulated ladders and ropes, and keep a good air gap between themselves and the tower steel.
So now you know! This site has some good lesson plan links etc at the bottom of the page if you want to follow the theme.
Today S got to go out again with his old school friend. They went to the indoor playcentre and then to the inevitable McDonalds afterwards. I had mentioned to his friend's mum about the gluten free, but hadn't thought to rule out McDonalds. Poor lady probably thought that chicken nuggets and fries were "safe". It's an issue, isn't it? For example, tomorrow we will be having dinner at my mum's, after visiting the baby. Mum is quite in a dither over what to serve the boys, and also keeps making reasonable assumptions as to what is "safe" or not. Such as "I'll use that jar of wine sauce" - it's got gluten in it Mum - or "is gravy ok?" - no, unless I bring my own.
Lunch today for ourselves was bad enough. As S was out, we wanted to take J and W out. However, as dh is sugar/meat free at the moment, and them being gluten free, our list of possible venues for lunch dwindled to nothing! We've decided we need to open a dietary specialist cafe in the Medway (sponsors needed, apply within!)
This evening for dinner I made gf pizza, which seemed to turn out alright. I also made some gf/cf cereal bars, using three types of gf cereal, diary free chocolate, Pure (soya) margarine and golden syrup. They are rather yummy and the boys had one for "pudding" and one now with their suppers. At the moment we are concentrating on the gluten free, and not so strict on the casein free, but we are following it where it is easy to.
Looking back over the day, even S could see that his behaviour this evening has been worse, after having had gluten at lunch for the first time in ages. Perhaps it was coincidence, but it certainly didn't seem that way.
I tried making a card for my little nephew this evening, but ended up in a tizz over it. It looks worse than anything the boys could have made, so I don't think I'll take it. It is going to be very wierd seeing my brother's son tomorrow - a most odd sensation that I wasn't really prepared for and can't quite put a name to.
Hope your day (dear Reader) has been pleasant, and successful.
I came across a great maths site today, from one of the home ed lists that I am on. The Centre for Innovation in Mathematics Teaching has practice books, copymasters and lesson plans for all year groups up to A level. I am going to be using the Primary section for the boys.
I love the way that with home education you can follow every query, question and sidetrack of the children. This evening's question was "why don't birds get electrocuted sitting on power lines?" Do you know? Apparently Animals are damaged by electricity only when it flows through them. A bird sitting on a power line is surrounded by air, which is a good insulator. No current flows through the bird, and there is no harm done. For the same reason, maintenance workers can sit on live transmission lines as long as they get there using insulated ladders and ropes, and keep a good air gap between themselves and the tower steel.
So now you know! This site has some good lesson plan links etc at the bottom of the page if you want to follow the theme.
Today S got to go out again with his old school friend. They went to the indoor playcentre and then to the inevitable McDonalds afterwards. I had mentioned to his friend's mum about the gluten free, but hadn't thought to rule out McDonalds. Poor lady probably thought that chicken nuggets and fries were "safe". It's an issue, isn't it? For example, tomorrow we will be having dinner at my mum's, after visiting the baby. Mum is quite in a dither over what to serve the boys, and also keeps making reasonable assumptions as to what is "safe" or not. Such as "I'll use that jar of wine sauce" - it's got gluten in it Mum - or "is gravy ok?" - no, unless I bring my own.
Lunch today for ourselves was bad enough. As S was out, we wanted to take J and W out. However, as dh is sugar/meat free at the moment, and them being gluten free, our list of possible venues for lunch dwindled to nothing! We've decided we need to open a dietary specialist cafe in the Medway (sponsors needed, apply within!)
This evening for dinner I made gf pizza, which seemed to turn out alright. I also made some gf/cf cereal bars, using three types of gf cereal, diary free chocolate, Pure (soya) margarine and golden syrup. They are rather yummy and the boys had one for "pudding" and one now with their suppers. At the moment we are concentrating on the gluten free, and not so strict on the casein free, but we are following it where it is easy to.
Looking back over the day, even S could see that his behaviour this evening has been worse, after having had gluten at lunch for the first time in ages. Perhaps it was coincidence, but it certainly didn't seem that way.
I tried making a card for my little nephew this evening, but ended up in a tizz over it. It looks worse than anything the boys could have made, so I don't think I'll take it. It is going to be very wierd seeing my brother's son tomorrow - a most odd sensation that I wasn't really prepared for and can't quite put a name to.
Hope your day (dear Reader) has been pleasant, and successful.
Friday, February 24, 2006
Take Cover!
After S's meltdown over the gf diet yesterday, we decided to go as a family to do the weekly food shop. We first visited the health food shop. As we thought, S ran around the shop picking everything up saying "can we have this?", "Look Mum - pizza!", "Can we have these chocolate cookies?" and other similar exclamations. It helped get the message across that going gf did not mean giving up his favourite things, just changing which ones we bought, or how we made them.
I know that change is hard for him, so I was really proud of him at lunch when he sat down to his crispbreads and crudites without a fuss. Of course, the chocolate cereal bar afterwards helped! He has been told that if he continues to be good about his lunches, we'll make the gf pizza mix up together for lunch one day next week.
I am very proud of my lads for the way they eat. They have always been into fruit, and, ever since we did a project on nutrition, they have dutifully counted their fruit/veg portions each day. The standard UK guidance is 5 portions a day. This of course is an arbitrary figure that came about in the 1990s following the WHOs recommendation that adults eat around 1lb (400g) of fruit and vegetables a day. If you take a "portion" as being 80g, that gives the figure of five portions. Despite being quoted universally as being a recommendation of the WHO, it was never actually a recommendation, or a target. The World Cancer Research Organisation's research shows 10 a day would be the optimum, for example. Also, there is no guidance on types, so some people could claim to be meeting their quota on tinned fruit (with possible added sugar) and fruit juices. We have discussed all this with the boys, and follow the "rainbow" principle - following the fact that different coloured fruit and veg have different properties and therefore a varied "coloured" diet is beneficial and broad.
Generally speaking, each lad has 3 different vegetable crudites at lunch, followed by a banana. At dinner, they have two "portions" of vegetables (usually peas, sweetcorn, sweet potato and parsnips). For supper, they have 3 pieces of fruit (usually raisens, apples and pear, or another banana). In addition to this, they always have at least one glass for pure fruit juice - either carton or freshly juiced (if Dad's home and working the juicer!). They put me to shame!
It has been a fairly quiet day, education wise, as the boys have had one of the house-wide games in progress. They started out using playing cards to create bases for their armies (using toy aeroplanes and army vehicles). This evolved during the day, and currently, the cushions from the 3 piece suite are being used to create 3 bases, each child has a toy shopping basket on their head, and they are "shooting" each other using the toy bananas, and throwing plastic fruit as hand grenades....
The beauty of the internet for home education is the resources that it places at your fingertips. There are some brilliant sites out there. If you haven't already found it, have a look at the award winning Woodlands Junior School website. It is very accessible for 5-10 year olds and has some great educational games.
For older children, encourage debate by finding out more about democs (deliberative meeting of citizens) . Homeschool groups could use them, or how about families?! I remember my family always used to debate stuff. We used to have the evening BBC news on whilst we ate our dinner, and the family would then argue (I mean debate!) the stories of the day afterwards. Most times, it would end up with my Mother and I on one side, and my brother and Dad on the other!
My dh and I try to encourage debate amongst ours too. At the moment, it is only really J that is interested - but he is very opinionated! He is very vocal on the rights and wrongs of some of the decisions that governments around the world have made, and it very keen on conservation too.
I'm waiting to hear from my brother to find out when my SIL will be out of hospital, so that we can go and visit. My Mum saw them today, and said that (of course!) her new grandson is lovely.
I know that change is hard for him, so I was really proud of him at lunch when he sat down to his crispbreads and crudites without a fuss. Of course, the chocolate cereal bar afterwards helped! He has been told that if he continues to be good about his lunches, we'll make the gf pizza mix up together for lunch one day next week.
I am very proud of my lads for the way they eat. They have always been into fruit, and, ever since we did a project on nutrition, they have dutifully counted their fruit/veg portions each day. The standard UK guidance is 5 portions a day. This of course is an arbitrary figure that came about in the 1990s following the WHOs recommendation that adults eat around 1lb (400g) of fruit and vegetables a day. If you take a "portion" as being 80g, that gives the figure of five portions. Despite being quoted universally as being a recommendation of the WHO, it was never actually a recommendation, or a target. The World Cancer Research Organisation's research shows 10 a day would be the optimum, for example. Also, there is no guidance on types, so some people could claim to be meeting their quota on tinned fruit (with possible added sugar) and fruit juices. We have discussed all this with the boys, and follow the "rainbow" principle - following the fact that different coloured fruit and veg have different properties and therefore a varied "coloured" diet is beneficial and broad.
Generally speaking, each lad has 3 different vegetable crudites at lunch, followed by a banana. At dinner, they have two "portions" of vegetables (usually peas, sweetcorn, sweet potato and parsnips). For supper, they have 3 pieces of fruit (usually raisens, apples and pear, or another banana). In addition to this, they always have at least one glass for pure fruit juice - either carton or freshly juiced (if Dad's home and working the juicer!). They put me to shame!
It has been a fairly quiet day, education wise, as the boys have had one of the house-wide games in progress. They started out using playing cards to create bases for their armies (using toy aeroplanes and army vehicles). This evolved during the day, and currently, the cushions from the 3 piece suite are being used to create 3 bases, each child has a toy shopping basket on their head, and they are "shooting" each other using the toy bananas, and throwing plastic fruit as hand grenades....
The beauty of the internet for home education is the resources that it places at your fingertips. There are some brilliant sites out there. If you haven't already found it, have a look at the award winning Woodlands Junior School website. It is very accessible for 5-10 year olds and has some great educational games.
For older children, encourage debate by finding out more about democs (deliberative meeting of citizens) . Homeschool groups could use them, or how about families?! I remember my family always used to debate stuff. We used to have the evening BBC news on whilst we ate our dinner, and the family would then argue (I mean debate!) the stories of the day afterwards. Most times, it would end up with my Mother and I on one side, and my brother and Dad on the other!
My dh and I try to encourage debate amongst ours too. At the moment, it is only really J that is interested - but he is very opinionated! He is very vocal on the rights and wrongs of some of the decisions that governments around the world have made, and it very keen on conservation too.
I'm waiting to hear from my brother to find out when my SIL will be out of hospital, so that we can go and visit. My Mum saw them today, and said that (of course!) her new grandson is lovely.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Thoughtful Thursday
My Mum has been on the phone all day, very excited about her new grandson and desperate to talk babies!
Dh went to see the Citizens Advice Bureau today, who are helping us sort out our finances. The gentleman said that, for us to be "so concerned" about our consumer debt was "admirable" because it was such a small amount (in his view). Apparently, the average consumer debt of the people that go to them for help is £50-60,000! No wonder he thought ours was so small. We are feeling a lot more positive having spoken to them, as they really seem to think that they can help us sort matters quickly and satisfactorily.
This morning J continued with making his Risk board game. He started making paper pieces, by rolling paper triangles around a lollipop stick, and then gluing it together. He then glued that to another, square piece of paper to make a base. Once that had dried, he then painted it all over with pva glue to help harden the pieces.
He then spent another 45 minutes on Brainpop. S also went on Brainpop for half an hour, learning about the underground trains used by the slaves. He really seemed interested (trains of course!) which was good.
At lunch we had a problem, as S had a meltdown over the gf diet. He has been refusing to eat anything if he knew it was gluten free.This had been building for over a week. Basically, he accused us of lying over gluten affecting him - saying not eating it was making him worse! This was all because he couldn't have a jam sandwich. It was very emotional, and quite distressing. We got through it, and the meltdown seems to have relieved the emotional pressure for him. He's been beautifully behaved all evening, tucking into his (gf) pasta and sauce. He then helped me make popcorn and all three boys settled down, lights dimmed, for a "movie". They chose to watch a Thomas movie which was lovely as it meant that W enjoyed it too.
The snow tried it's best, but turned to rain in the afternoon. It's due to freeze tonight, and snow again. I hope there is enough for them to play in, in the morning, at least.
I'm due to meet a researcher on Monday about stay at home mums, which could be interesting. I'll be interested to see what their remit is, and what the point of the programme would be.
W is chanting "we want a power cut, we want a power cut"! I must have succeeded yesterday in stopping him from feeling scared in the dark.
Dh went to see the Citizens Advice Bureau today, who are helping us sort out our finances. The gentleman said that, for us to be "so concerned" about our consumer debt was "admirable" because it was such a small amount (in his view). Apparently, the average consumer debt of the people that go to them for help is £50-60,000! No wonder he thought ours was so small. We are feeling a lot more positive having spoken to them, as they really seem to think that they can help us sort matters quickly and satisfactorily.
This morning J continued with making his Risk board game. He started making paper pieces, by rolling paper triangles around a lollipop stick, and then gluing it together. He then glued that to another, square piece of paper to make a base. Once that had dried, he then painted it all over with pva glue to help harden the pieces.
He then spent another 45 minutes on Brainpop. S also went on Brainpop for half an hour, learning about the underground trains used by the slaves. He really seemed interested (trains of course!) which was good.
At lunch we had a problem, as S had a meltdown over the gf diet. He has been refusing to eat anything if he knew it was gluten free.
The snow tried it's best, but turned to rain in the afternoon. It's due to freeze tonight, and snow again. I hope there is enough for them to play in, in the morning, at least.
I'm due to meet a researcher on Monday about stay at home mums, which could be interesting. I'll be interested to see what their remit is, and what the point of the programme would be.
W is chanting "we want a power cut, we want a power cut"! I must have succeeded yesterday in stopping him from feeling scared in the dark.
It's a boy!
I have a little nephew! T was born at 4.15am (GMT) on 23rd February, weighing 8.9lb and measuring 56cm!
My sister-in-law has called her parents, who no doubt will be on the first plane out of Hungary to see their first grandson.
My Mum says that at least we now have someone to pass all our train sets onto - as she now has 4 grandsons!
We hope to see them this weekend, if they are up for our hoards to visit.
Oh yes, and it's snowing here - my boys thought that was a perfect day, being woken with the news of their new cousin and snow!
My sister-in-law has called her parents, who no doubt will be on the first plane out of Hungary to see their first grandson.
My Mum says that at least we now have someone to pass all our train sets onto - as she now has 4 grandsons!
We hope to see them this weekend, if they are up for our hoards to visit.
Oh yes, and it's snowing here - my boys thought that was a perfect day, being woken with the news of their new cousin and snow!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Now, where was I?
Oh bother! I was just about to post when we had a power cut and I lost my draft!
What I had said, was that I have been on tenterhooks all day waiting for the phone to ring with news of my sister in law. She is currently 5cm dilated and has just had her epidural. She has a heart condition, so is being closely monitored.
Hopefully by the morning, I'll be an Auntie for the first time!
This morning I was expecting our new volunteer to come and see us, but they never arrived. I am sure I had the right date. I rang the office but couldn't get through.
Today J spent one and a half hours on Brainpop. Our free 14 day trial is about to end and I am seriously going to have to think about subscribing as he has got so much out of it. As a result of one of the clips he watched, he then decided to make his own game of Risk. He sat and faithfully hand drew a map of the world. I am so proud of him - it looks fabulous. Tomorrow he wants to make pieces out of paper, which we will then harden with pva glue.
I spent some time today adding a few more monthly resources to our Resource page. I am saving all the past months and hope to put up a full calendar year of seasonal resources soon.
The power cut fortunately came about half an hour after we'd eaten and washed up. Dh is at work, so it was left to me to sort everyone out. In the fading light we tidied the bedrooms and the front room of the toys (plus the ones on the stairs - safety first!). I then found as many candles as I could, and safe holders. We put one in the hall, one in the bathroom, two in the kitchen and three in the front room. I also had a box of glow sticks, which we cracked and the boys had two each.
Thank goodness for mobile phones - at least I knew I wasn't going to miss out on a birth announcement! I text dh and called Mum to tell them.
With no heating, and a strong north wind on the back of the house, I made the boys wear their dressing gowns over their clothes to help keep warm.
W and S looked a bit lost without the tv. However, I thought it was great! I told them some stories from when I was younger. In 1973 a miners' work-to-rule led to regular power cuts and the imposition of a three day week. I remember a bit of that, but I clearly remember the power cuts too during the "winter of discontent" in 1978/79.
I suggested that we played a story game. Each of us gave a sentence or two of a story, then passed it on to the next one. We made up two lovely stories with even W (3) joining in.
In one of the stories, the mum got the children to have a science lesson by showing them how to create fire using flints (nice that even in their stories, Mum is a hero and they are homeschooled! I must mention also that the Dad in the story cheated by using the matches in his pocket!) and using the fire to heat up milk for hot chocolate.
I can take a hint with the best of them. Fortunately our hob is gas, so I was able to boil water and milk and make us all a hot chocolate.
Just as I poured it out the electricity came back on. I guess it had been off around an hour and a half.
It was quite nice that J was disappointed - he was enjoying the story game. However, S ran straight over the switch on the tv...
It would have been more useful if the power cut had been nearly at bedtime - then I could have got them to bed early! Still, at least it means I won't have to read by candlelight.
What I had said, was that I have been on tenterhooks all day waiting for the phone to ring with news of my sister in law. She is currently 5cm dilated and has just had her epidural. She has a heart condition, so is being closely monitored.
Hopefully by the morning, I'll be an Auntie for the first time!
This morning I was expecting our new volunteer to come and see us, but they never arrived. I am sure I had the right date. I rang the office but couldn't get through.
Today J spent one and a half hours on Brainpop. Our free 14 day trial is about to end and I am seriously going to have to think about subscribing as he has got so much out of it. As a result of one of the clips he watched, he then decided to make his own game of Risk. He sat and faithfully hand drew a map of the world. I am so proud of him - it looks fabulous. Tomorrow he wants to make pieces out of paper, which we will then harden with pva glue.
I spent some time today adding a few more monthly resources to our Resource page. I am saving all the past months and hope to put up a full calendar year of seasonal resources soon.
The power cut fortunately came about half an hour after we'd eaten and washed up. Dh is at work, so it was left to me to sort everyone out. In the fading light we tidied the bedrooms and the front room of the toys (plus the ones on the stairs - safety first!). I then found as many candles as I could, and safe holders. We put one in the hall, one in the bathroom, two in the kitchen and three in the front room. I also had a box of glow sticks, which we cracked and the boys had two each.
Thank goodness for mobile phones - at least I knew I wasn't going to miss out on a birth announcement! I text dh and called Mum to tell them.
With no heating, and a strong north wind on the back of the house, I made the boys wear their dressing gowns over their clothes to help keep warm.
W and S looked a bit lost without the tv. However, I thought it was great! I told them some stories from when I was younger. In 1973 a miners' work-to-rule led to regular power cuts and the imposition of a three day week. I remember a bit of that, but I clearly remember the power cuts too during the "winter of discontent" in 1978/79.
I suggested that we played a story game. Each of us gave a sentence or two of a story, then passed it on to the next one. We made up two lovely stories with even W (3) joining in.
In one of the stories, the mum got the children to have a science lesson by showing them how to create fire using flints (nice that even in their stories, Mum is a hero and they are homeschooled! I must mention also that the Dad in the story cheated by using the matches in his pocket!) and using the fire to heat up milk for hot chocolate.
I can take a hint with the best of them. Fortunately our hob is gas, so I was able to boil water and milk and make us all a hot chocolate.
Just as I poured it out the electricity came back on. I guess it had been off around an hour and a half.
It was quite nice that J was disappointed - he was enjoying the story game. However, S ran straight over the switch on the tv...
It would have been more useful if the power cut had been nearly at bedtime - then I could have got them to bed early! Still, at least it means I won't have to read by candlelight.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
New friends, Harry Potter and Trains
Today's meeting at the play park was great! The three 12 year old girls all hit it off together and seemed to have a great time. The new young family were very friendly, and the lady had an adorable baby who was passed around for cuddles amongst some broody mums.
I found a great online shop that makes their own ready meals and snack products that are all gluten, wheat and dairy free. If you are in the UK, have a look at Coeliac Sensations.
The boys both did some more english work today - again, S went online and J used his BBC 10 Minute Top Ups book.
J then spent some time on some other worksheets. If you, like me, have a child into Harry Potter, then have a look at A to Z Teacher Stuff. Also, Newsword have two great pdfs full of Harry Potter worksheets - these are the direct links for the one on the Philosophers Stone, and the Chamber of Secrets. Or, for a train buff like my S, we found the Children's Museum of Indinapolis has some great train pages.
In the evening we had friends round, which was a pleasant way to end the day.
Forgive me the short post today - I'm feeling very tired this evening and cannot really think of anything other than my bed!
I found a great online shop that makes their own ready meals and snack products that are all gluten, wheat and dairy free. If you are in the UK, have a look at Coeliac Sensations.
The boys both did some more english work today - again, S went online and J used his BBC 10 Minute Top Ups book.
J then spent some time on some other worksheets. If you, like me, have a child into Harry Potter, then have a look at A to Z Teacher Stuff. Also, Newsword have two great pdfs full of Harry Potter worksheets - these are the direct links for the one on the Philosophers Stone, and the Chamber of Secrets. Or, for a train buff like my S, we found the Children's Museum of Indinapolis has some great train pages.
In the evening we had friends round, which was a pleasant way to end the day.
Forgive me the short post today - I'm feeling very tired this evening and cannot really think of anything other than my bed!
Monday, February 20, 2006
A Pot Pourri of Smells
This morning the boys settled down for some "formal" learning, which was the first for some time. J worked on his English, using the BBC 10 Minute Top Ups, at the table. S did his online via the BBC site.
The boys know that they are learning all the time with home education. We debate, ask questions, look up answers, and generally try to explain and investigate everything. They spend time watching documentaries, or reading non-fiction books on various topics from the library, as well as the time they spend on their general reading.
On top of that, however, I try to encourage them to also do some "formal" learning every day. The way I describe it to them is to distinguish it as a time when they chose to concentrate on some learning, when it is a conscious act of their will to sit down and learn something. They know that two hours a day would be what Mum considered best, but it is not set in stone. Most days J averages an hour, and S about half an hour.
At lunch dh managed to burn one of my saucepans - leaving rice on the boil instead of turning it down. I asked on one of the email lists for suggestions to clean the pan. However, being one of those days, I didn't have any biological washing powder, didn't have any white vinegar, so I resorted to bicarb. That cleaned half of it, then I dumped a pint of white wine vinegar in the saucepan and boiled it. The pan is now 95% clean - but my house smelt like a chip shop. One step up from the smell of burnt saucepan. I lit an incense stick to clean the smell only for W to ask "NOW what is smelling Mummy?" The pot pourri of smells in the house now is quite astounding.
This afternoon we had L over with her two young ones. B played nicely with the boys, and H pottered around watching everything. The boys were slightly better than yesterday, however things soon built up. Someone recently described it as being like an emotional pressure cooker. With S as an Aspie things build up and up until it needs to blow. Once he gets it out of his system, he is fine again. As he was trying to behave though, and wishing to get back to playing with his friends, he never really calmed down on the "time outs" that he had. The pressure is still simmering but he did settle down nicely at dinner which made a change.
Tomorrow is our regular fortnightly meeting at the indoor play park. We have two new members coming along, with 4 children between them, so I am looking forward to it.
I'd really appreciate prayers for my sister-in-law who is due to be induced with her first baby this week. She has a heart condition so there is an extra care being taken with the birth. This is my brother's first child (he is older than I, the same age as my DH and I'm the same age as his wife!) and I pray that this awesome moment is trouble free, and that they have the chance to enjoy it all.
The boys know that they are learning all the time with home education. We debate, ask questions, look up answers, and generally try to explain and investigate everything. They spend time watching documentaries, or reading non-fiction books on various topics from the library, as well as the time they spend on their general reading.
On top of that, however, I try to encourage them to also do some "formal" learning every day. The way I describe it to them is to distinguish it as a time when they chose to concentrate on some learning, when it is a conscious act of their will to sit down and learn something. They know that two hours a day would be what Mum considered best, but it is not set in stone. Most days J averages an hour, and S about half an hour.
At lunch dh managed to burn one of my saucepans - leaving rice on the boil instead of turning it down. I asked on one of the email lists for suggestions to clean the pan. However, being one of those days, I didn't have any biological washing powder, didn't have any white vinegar, so I resorted to bicarb. That cleaned half of it, then I dumped a pint of white wine vinegar in the saucepan and boiled it. The pan is now 95% clean - but my house smelt like a chip shop. One step up from the smell of burnt saucepan. I lit an incense stick to clean the smell only for W to ask "NOW what is smelling Mummy?" The pot pourri of smells in the house now is quite astounding.
This afternoon we had L over with her two young ones. B played nicely with the boys, and H pottered around watching everything. The boys were slightly better than yesterday, however things soon built up. Someone recently described it as being like an emotional pressure cooker. With S as an Aspie things build up and up until it needs to blow. Once he gets it out of his system, he is fine again. As he was trying to behave though, and wishing to get back to playing with his friends, he never really calmed down on the "time outs" that he had. The pressure is still simmering but he did settle down nicely at dinner which made a change.
Tomorrow is our regular fortnightly meeting at the indoor play park. We have two new members coming along, with 4 children between them, so I am looking forward to it.
I'd really appreciate prayers for my sister-in-law who is due to be induced with her first baby this week. She has a heart condition so there is an extra care being taken with the birth. This is my brother's first child (he is older than I, the same age as my DH and I'm the same age as his wife!) and I pray that this awesome moment is trouble free, and that they have the chance to enjoy it all.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Wind Devils and Dust Giants
This morning we went to the Farmers Market in Rochester. We like the chance to support our local farmers and to buy their produce. Since dh became a vegetarian we've not gone so often, as it was the meat produce that we particularly went for. However, today we came across a fabulous stall from Villager's Sausages. Their sausages are gluten free, and therefore were a very welcome find. They worked out cheaper than buying "gluten free" sausages from the supermarket or online. Do have a look at their website (if you are in the UK) as they have won many awards for their sausages and online ordering facility.
The boys were given the choice of a fresh, farm sausage from the snack wagon (£1.50) in a roll, or a McDonalds. I won't tell you which one they chose, suffice to say it wasn't the choice I'd hoped for!
It was nice to be able to offer them the treat though, thanks to the overtime dh managed last week.
In the afternoon we had some visitors. Have you heard it said that windy weather makes children misbehave? I know when my Mum used to help in our infants school twenty years ago, it used to be said a lot by the teachers. I am not superstitious so I don't believe in it - but there does seem to be some connection. I'm sure there must be a scientific explanation. Anyway, the point is all three boys have been quite tempersome today.
You know how it goes - one starts, they upset the other one, they argue, then that affects the mood of the third, then I get stressed, then all three argue, then I lose my patience (ok, that should truthfully said lose my temper), and it all goes downhill from there.
It has addled my brain today! I've just tried tidying up, and put all the duplo in the toy food box, and the toy food in the duplo box. On top of which, I've just made the mistake of moving one of the sofa cushions. Where does all that stuff come from? It's only been a week since I last hovered behind them yet they seem to contain enough food to feed a family for a month (raisins being the main culprits), enough lego pieces to build a house, and as for the dust - forget dust bunnies, these were more like dust giants. Yuk!
On top of all of that, W is having an attack of the Mummys. You know "Mummy, why...", "Mummy, can I...", "Mummy, where is..." until I feel like I want to scream or at least change my name.
[deep breath in, and out]
Today we had a new member join our support group, which was great. Each family brings another dimension to it, bringing new viewpoints and new experiences that make us all richer by their sharing. I get excited by the possibilities.
Talking of getting excited by possibilities, do you ever find you are more excited by home education than the children? I see so much potential, seeing learning in everything, that I get very excited. Some days the children share that excitement. Then there are the days when they don't. In fact, in my experience, one tends to get a run of days together when they are either on fire for learning, or totally cold to it.
The beauty, of course, of home education - certainly autonomous - is that I can let those natural rhythms through and not fight against them.
Now, if only being a Mum was autonomous...
The boys were given the choice of a fresh, farm sausage from the snack wagon (£1.50) in a roll, or a McDonalds. I won't tell you which one they chose, suffice to say it wasn't the choice I'd hoped for!
It was nice to be able to offer them the treat though, thanks to the overtime dh managed last week.
In the afternoon we had some visitors. Have you heard it said that windy weather makes children misbehave? I know when my Mum used to help in our infants school twenty years ago, it used to be said a lot by the teachers. I am not superstitious so I don't believe in it - but there does seem to be some connection. I'm sure there must be a scientific explanation. Anyway, the point is all three boys have been quite tempersome today.
You know how it goes - one starts, they upset the other one, they argue, then that affects the mood of the third, then I get stressed, then all three argue, then I lose my patience (ok, that should truthfully said lose my temper), and it all goes downhill from there.
It has addled my brain today! I've just tried tidying up, and put all the duplo in the toy food box, and the toy food in the duplo box. On top of which, I've just made the mistake of moving one of the sofa cushions. Where does all that stuff come from? It's only been a week since I last hovered behind them yet they seem to contain enough food to feed a family for a month (raisins being the main culprits), enough lego pieces to build a house, and as for the dust - forget dust bunnies, these were more like dust giants. Yuk!
On top of all of that, W is having an attack of the Mummys. You know "Mummy, why...", "Mummy, can I...", "Mummy, where is..." until I feel like I want to scream or at least change my name.
[deep breath in, and out]
Today we had a new member join our support group, which was great. Each family brings another dimension to it, bringing new viewpoints and new experiences that make us all richer by their sharing. I get excited by the possibilities.
Talking of getting excited by possibilities, do you ever find you are more excited by home education than the children? I see so much potential, seeing learning in everything, that I get very excited. Some days the children share that excitement. Then there are the days when they don't. In fact, in my experience, one tends to get a run of days together when they are either on fire for learning, or totally cold to it.
The beauty, of course, of home education - certainly autonomous - is that I can let those natural rhythms through and not fight against them.
Now, if only being a Mum was autonomous...
Saturday, February 18, 2006
I Can't Get No Satisfaction
It's been one of those days today that somehow has left me feeling dissatisfied, without really knowing why.
This morning we went to Rochester in order to collect some goodies to send back with our Flat Travellers. We stopped off at the Vistors Centre for a drink.
As dh is on lates for the next few days, we are making a concerted effort for him to go on his anti-candida diet. I ate lunch with him - a large bowl of brown rice with shredded raw greens stirred through it. Yum (not!) It might not have tasted so bad if I'd had some nice meat and gravy with it...
After lunch, the boys sat down to make a birthday card for their Grandad, so that dh could drop it off on his way to work.
J did some more typing practice today, but to be honest, both J and S have resisted any attempts on my part to engaged them in any learning.
At least they haven't been in front of the television - not owning any Pokemons has not stopped them creating an elaborate Pokemon game. It has now taken over the hall, the stairs, the upstairs landing and S and W's bedroom. Standing in for Pokemon are every figure that they own. At last - a use for all those McDonald's toys! We have Winnie the Pooh figures, Lilo and Stitch characters, Power Rangers, teddy bears, Boo, Incredibles, Monsters Inc.. It's a fantastically imaginative game, even if I do have to keep stepping in to mediate between them all.
I think J is struggling now W is old enough to have his own ideas on how the games should go. Now he has to cope with two other people getting in the way of how he wants the game to go. It's not that he is bossy, or unfair, but he visualises these games so clearly and so intently that he struggles when his brothers spoil the image that he has.
What's the weather like where you are today? We've got rain. I know everyone thinks it rains all the time in the UK but at the moment, we are are in a drought here in the south east of England - we still have a ban on using hosepipes. We need the rain, however dreary it makes it. By the way, the Met Office have some great educational resources - worth a look if you haven't already.
I am definately in need of some quiet time this evening. Perhaps I can negotiate with the boys to get them to go to bed early? We went to the library today so I have some good books to look forward to reading.
This morning we went to Rochester in order to collect some goodies to send back with our Flat Travellers. We stopped off at the Vistors Centre for a drink.
As dh is on lates for the next few days, we are making a concerted effort for him to go on his anti-candida diet. I ate lunch with him - a large bowl of brown rice with shredded raw greens stirred through it. Yum (not!) It might not have tasted so bad if I'd had some nice meat and gravy with it...
After lunch, the boys sat down to make a birthday card for their Grandad, so that dh could drop it off on his way to work.
J did some more typing practice today, but to be honest, both J and S have resisted any attempts on my part to engaged them in any learning.
At least they haven't been in front of the television - not owning any Pokemons has not stopped them creating an elaborate Pokemon game. It has now taken over the hall, the stairs, the upstairs landing and S and W's bedroom. Standing in for Pokemon are every figure that they own. At last - a use for all those McDonald's toys! We have Winnie the Pooh figures, Lilo and Stitch characters, Power Rangers, teddy bears, Boo, Incredibles, Monsters Inc.. It's a fantastically imaginative game, even if I do have to keep stepping in to mediate between them all.
I think J is struggling now W is old enough to have his own ideas on how the games should go. Now he has to cope with two other people getting in the way of how he wants the game to go. It's not that he is bossy, or unfair, but he visualises these games so clearly and so intently that he struggles when his brothers spoil the image that he has.
What's the weather like where you are today? We've got rain. I know everyone thinks it rains all the time in the UK but at the moment, we are are in a drought here in the south east of England - we still have a ban on using hosepipes. We need the rain, however dreary it makes it. By the way, the Met Office have some great educational resources - worth a look if you haven't already.
I am definately in need of some quiet time this evening. Perhaps I can negotiate with the boys to get them to go to bed early? We went to the library today so I have some good books to look forward to reading.
Friday, February 17, 2006
A Busy Day
This morning both boys spent some time on the Government's Red Box site - they both really seem to like it. They also continued on their typing lessons.
I found several great science sites today, that you may want to check out: http://www.tryscience.org/, http://www.infovisual.info/ and http://www.tryscience.org/.
I received some excellent science resources today from Physics & Astronomy Research Council (PPARC). Well worth checking out if you are in the UK and your kids are into science.
I keep meaning to let you know how I'm getting on with the whole GF/CF/raw changes in diet. I've been scouring the internet for ideas for recipes (found a great blog here today - Vegan Lunch Box). I have been very proud with my lads for how they are dealing with it all. W is now eating raw carrot, cucumber and red pepper with his lunch, and having half bread and half rice cakes. S is having crispbreads in place of bread, with extra fruit with it. J is having rice and crispbreads, with raw carrot, cucumber, beansprouts and fruit. I'm gradually stocking the cupboard and freezer with GF/CF products and I will (eventually!) bake an edible GF bread!
In the evening, I took delivery of some phonetic learning books that I got free from being in the FreeCycle local network. They will be brilliant for W.
Dh rang to say that he'd been asked to stay late on overtime. Fortunately, this didn't bother me as much as it might as my best friend was due to come over for a natter. We used to work together and I really miss our chats. We don't get a chance to see each other very often, so when we do it is very precious.
Now, all I need to do is overcome my sudden attack of the munchies (without giving in) and I'll be fine..
I found several great science sites today, that you may want to check out: http://www.tryscience.org/, http://www.infovisual.info/ and http://www.tryscience.org/.
I received some excellent science resources today from Physics & Astronomy Research Council (PPARC). Well worth checking out if you are in the UK and your kids are into science.
I keep meaning to let you know how I'm getting on with the whole GF/CF/raw changes in diet. I've been scouring the internet for ideas for recipes (found a great blog here today - Vegan Lunch Box). I have been very proud with my lads for how they are dealing with it all. W is now eating raw carrot, cucumber and red pepper with his lunch, and having half bread and half rice cakes. S is having crispbreads in place of bread, with extra fruit with it. J is having rice and crispbreads, with raw carrot, cucumber, beansprouts and fruit. I'm gradually stocking the cupboard and freezer with GF/CF products and I will (eventually!) bake an edible GF bread!
In the evening, I took delivery of some phonetic learning books that I got free from being in the FreeCycle local network. They will be brilliant for W.
Dh rang to say that he'd been asked to stay late on overtime. Fortunately, this didn't bother me as much as it might as my best friend was due to come over for a natter. We used to work together and I really miss our chats. We don't get a chance to see each other very often, so when we do it is very precious.
Now, all I need to do is overcome my sudden attack of the munchies (without giving in) and I'll be fine..
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Great Walls
This morning I woke with one of my periodic "bad heads" which put a bit of a dampner on the day. We were forecast stormy weather, so that might have been a trigger.
In the morning I started working preparing the April resources for the Resource section of our group's website. Once I have completed it, I'll update the page and let you know.
At lunch time we took the bus over to our friends in Strood, where we had a lovely afternoon. The children played whilst we caught up on a few things, such as some planning for more events during the spring.
It's been another slow day in so far as any "formal" learning goes, however as is the way with home education, we've actually covered quite a lot today. In the morning we'd watched a programme on Hadrian's Wall, and at our friends J set up his own dividing wall (in their game). This prompted discussion about the Great Wall of China, when we realised we didn't actually know why it had been built. My friend got out her encyclopedia and we looked it up. I love the way that we parents learn with our children!
In the evening J and I also discussed some aspects of local government, including the role of social services in the UK. When dh got in, the boys settled down with him to watch some of the Winter Olympics. Fortunately, dh is mostly recovered. I'm praying that this is the end of this run of ill health for the family.
In the morning I started working preparing the April resources for the Resource section of our group's website. Once I have completed it, I'll update the page and let you know.
At lunch time we took the bus over to our friends in Strood, where we had a lovely afternoon. The children played whilst we caught up on a few things, such as some planning for more events during the spring.
It's been another slow day in so far as any "formal" learning goes, however as is the way with home education, we've actually covered quite a lot today. In the morning we'd watched a programme on Hadrian's Wall, and at our friends J set up his own dividing wall (in their game). This prompted discussion about the Great Wall of China, when we realised we didn't actually know why it had been built. My friend got out her encyclopedia and we looked it up. I love the way that we parents learn with our children!
In the evening J and I also discussed some aspects of local government, including the role of social services in the UK. When dh got in, the boys settled down with him to watch some of the Winter Olympics. Fortunately, dh is mostly recovered. I'm praying that this is the end of this run of ill health for the family.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
You've Got Mail
Today has not been a normal day - though to be honest, I'm not actually sure what I am meaning by "normal"!
S (8) spent the day out with the one friend that he had from school. They went swimming, had lunch and then went to see Chicken Little at the cinema. By all accounts, he had a lovely day and behaved beautifully. Like a lot of aspies, he is brilliant with his sense of direction and apparently gave his friend's Dad directions all day!
J (10) had his old school friend over for half the day. I think J realised what I'd meant in the morning, when I warned him that his friend might not be interested in playing his games. His friend is used to Playstations,pc games, tv - rather than the sort of highly imaginative, complex games that my lads play. They can take over the whole house, creating worlds out of bricks, boxes, and any toy that comes to hand. Noahs Ark becomes a research station, the zoo becomes an experimental genetics lab... His friend just wanted to play on J's pc and wasn't interested in J's suggestions for games. Still, they had a nice time, and I allowed J to walk to the corner shop with his friend to buy some sweets. To give them both their due, they both bought back some sweets for W (3) who was feeling rather left out without a playmate of his own.
In the afternoon, one of our other Home Ed friends came over for a chat, and the daughter had a chance to play with J and W. Her Dad and I spent some time discussing the TOS issue that I referred to (obliquely) in my previous post.
Today I've been making some arrangements for the first visits of the year for our group. Next month we are off to a potters, and the children are now working through a design pack to create their design, ready to transfer to a clay tile.
Our visit the month after will be to the Britain At War Experience which we are looking forward to. It ties in nicely with the work that some of the families in the group have been doing about Europe, politics, and the second world war.
In the course of today I've read just short of 400 emails - I never realised it could be so exhausting! I've also been working on some new recipes for our family cookbook - it's not been updated for a while. I'll let you know when the new recipes are up.
They should include some raw, vegetarian and some CF/GF ones - if I get my finger out and write them. I've been getting a lot of support and ideas from the new groups that I've joined, for raw foods and for GF/CF diets for children.
The weather here has been bright today, the first time in a while. This meant I caught up on the washing but, without the car, we didn't get out to enjoy it. Tomorrow we are travelling across the towns to visit another HE family in Strood, which should be nice.
Dh has been struggling all day, bless him. He's still quite rough and is relying on all sorts of pills and potions to keep him at work. He's off to bed with the boys in a moment.
Ah, peace and quiet (once I turn this machine off...)
S (8) spent the day out with the one friend that he had from school. They went swimming, had lunch and then went to see Chicken Little at the cinema. By all accounts, he had a lovely day and behaved beautifully. Like a lot of aspies, he is brilliant with his sense of direction and apparently gave his friend's Dad directions all day!
J (10) had his old school friend over for half the day. I think J realised what I'd meant in the morning, when I warned him that his friend might not be interested in playing his games. His friend is used to Playstations,pc games, tv - rather than the sort of highly imaginative, complex games that my lads play. They can take over the whole house, creating worlds out of bricks, boxes, and any toy that comes to hand. Noahs Ark becomes a research station, the zoo becomes an experimental genetics lab... His friend just wanted to play on J's pc and wasn't interested in J's suggestions for games. Still, they had a nice time, and I allowed J to walk to the corner shop with his friend to buy some sweets. To give them both their due, they both bought back some sweets for W (3) who was feeling rather left out without a playmate of his own.
In the afternoon, one of our other Home Ed friends came over for a chat, and the daughter had a chance to play with J and W. Her Dad and I spent some time discussing the TOS issue that I referred to (obliquely) in my previous post.
Today I've been making some arrangements for the first visits of the year for our group. Next month we are off to a potters, and the children are now working through a design pack to create their design, ready to transfer to a clay tile.
Our visit the month after will be to the Britain At War Experience which we are looking forward to. It ties in nicely with the work that some of the families in the group have been doing about Europe, politics, and the second world war.
In the course of today I've read just short of 400 emails - I never realised it could be so exhausting! I've also been working on some new recipes for our family cookbook - it's not been updated for a while. I'll let you know when the new recipes are up.
They should include some raw, vegetarian and some CF/GF ones - if I get my finger out and write them. I've been getting a lot of support and ideas from the new groups that I've joined, for raw foods and for GF/CF diets for children.
The weather here has been bright today, the first time in a while. This meant I caught up on the washing but, without the car, we didn't get out to enjoy it. Tomorrow we are travelling across the towns to visit another HE family in Strood, which should be nice.
Dh has been struggling all day, bless him. He's still quite rough and is relying on all sorts of pills and potions to keep him at work. He's off to bed with the boys in a moment.
Ah, peace and quiet (once I turn this machine off...)
Welcome!
I hope that at least some of my readers will have followed me across to this new site.
Unfortunately, I chose to move from my previous host due to serious disagreements with them over their connections to a ministry that I am totally opposed to. Integrity is something that I value most highly and I felt that to continue using their blog facilities would compromise the message that I wanted to send about my own feelings on the matter.
My old blog (if they haven't deleted it..) could be found at http://homeschoolblogger.com/thenewstead5/. The service was set up by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. It's a shame, as I loved the blog, the templates, and had built up some lovely friendships via the site.
Still, using the link to that blog in my signature on literally hundreds of emails a day that I send, was definately sending out the wrong message to friends, family and the home education community within the UK (Christian or otherwise).
For those of you new to me - I hope you enjoy my ramblings over the coming months.
[UPDATE: December 2006: I'm taking the time to copy over all my old posts from the old site, so you can now go back December 2005 all on this site. Enjoy!]
Unfortunately, I chose to move from my previous host due to serious disagreements with them over their connections to a ministry that I am totally opposed to. Integrity is something that I value most highly and I felt that to continue using their blog facilities would compromise the message that I wanted to send about my own feelings on the matter.
My old blog (if they haven't deleted it..) could be found at http://homeschoolblogger.com/thenewstead5/. The service was set up by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. It's a shame, as I loved the blog, the templates, and had built up some lovely friendships via the site.
Still, using the link to that blog in my signature on literally hundreds of emails a day that I send, was definately sending out the wrong message to friends, family and the home education community within the UK (Christian or otherwise).
For those of you new to me - I hope you enjoy my ramblings over the coming months.
[UPDATE: December 2006: I'm taking the time to copy over all my old posts from the old site, so you can now go back December 2005 all on this site. Enjoy!]
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Art and stuff
I have continued to feel better today, which is great. I'm currently working on updating the recipes on our family site (as per J's request!) - I'll let you know when it's finished.
W is determined to be a big boy like his brothers. He wants to get dressed unaided, doesn't want a "baby" (melamine) plate and bowl anymore, but a "big boy" one (china) like his brothers. He also has asked for full sized cutlery instead of the toddler set he was still using. My little baby has grown up.
J came down today from his room asking if I had any books on art. He is looking for inspiration (his words) and thought that if he learnt more about art and famous artists, it may inspire him. He searched through all his encyclopedias, including the one on his computer, looking for reference to art. I also gave him some sites to look at online - the Tate and Sanford Art Adventures being particularly interesting for him.
W spent ages on some colouring, copying his eldest brother by designing a map. He has an amazing imagination, and always regales us of a morning with details of the dreams he had the night before.
It is a good job we had our valentines meal last night - poor dh came home with an awful headache and is going to bed now, with the boys. Yesterday we had taken a self-test for Candida, and it does indeed look like he is suffering with it. It certainly ties in with his symptoms. (click on this link then scroll down to look for the words "Simple Home Candida Test")
Tomorrow, S is out most of the day with his old school friend, and J has his friend over here. I guess W and I will be playing together then!
W is determined to be a big boy like his brothers. He wants to get dressed unaided, doesn't want a "baby" (melamine) plate and bowl anymore, but a "big boy" one (china) like his brothers. He also has asked for full sized cutlery instead of the toddler set he was still using. My little baby has grown up.
J came down today from his room asking if I had any books on art. He is looking for inspiration (his words) and thought that if he learnt more about art and famous artists, it may inspire him. He searched through all his encyclopedias, including the one on his computer, looking for reference to art. I also gave him some sites to look at online - the Tate and Sanford Art Adventures being particularly interesting for him.
W spent ages on some colouring, copying his eldest brother by designing a map. He has an amazing imagination, and always regales us of a morning with details of the dreams he had the night before.
It is a good job we had our valentines meal last night - poor dh came home with an awful headache and is going to bed now, with the boys. Yesterday we had taken a self-test for Candida, and it does indeed look like he is suffering with it. It certainly ties in with his symptoms. (click on this link then scroll down to look for the words "Simple Home Candida Test")
Tomorrow, S is out most of the day with his old school friend, and J has his friend over here. I guess W and I will be playing together then!
Monday, February 13, 2006
Sprouts and valentines
I continue to be grateful for all your prayers, as I am definately recovered. Whilst I feel as wrung out as a dish cloth, my aches and pains have all gone.
This morning S went out with his (one) friend that he had from his school days. His mum and friend took them to a play park, had lunch, then called in for a cup of tea when they dropped S home. Sadly, his friend is being bullied at school too and is not very happy.
Whilst they were out, I took J & W to the library, then out for a drink at a cafe as a treat. We then went to get some fresh vegetables. I'd discussed moving to a more raw-based diet with J over his drink. I was very proud of him at lunch - in light of what we had discussed, he had a plate of crudites (with branston pickle!) and some rice cakes.
My first attempts at home sprouting were ready today - they are a bit on the short side (lack of warmth I think), but they certainly tasted ok.
J spent more time today on the Brain Pop site which he is really enjoying - I'd really recommend looking at it if you haven't already.
I also found a nice site for younger children looking into healthy eating which is worth looking at.
This evening, as dh is off work (but will be working tomorrow, 14th), I gave dh the card that I had made him for valentines. I felt a bit goofy giving him a homemade card, but he seemed to appreciate it.
We have never bought each other birthday or Christmas presents, but we have always gone out for a meal or a day on Valentines, and on our wedding anniversary (which somewhat sadly is 9/11). I guess to us marking our union is so much more meaningful to us than another year in age. As Christians, also, we don't find giving each other presents a reflection on how we feel about Christmas. It grieves both of us that this year we cannot afford to go out for a meal - the first time in 12 years.
Still, the boys are ready for bed sharp, and we have waited to have our dinner when they go up in a short while. We have a saved-bottle of wine in the fridge, and we will still celebrate our relationship together, and thank God for the blessing that our marriage is to us.
This morning S went out with his (one) friend that he had from his school days. His mum and friend took them to a play park, had lunch, then called in for a cup of tea when they dropped S home. Sadly, his friend is being bullied at school too and is not very happy.
Whilst they were out, I took J & W to the library, then out for a drink at a cafe as a treat. We then went to get some fresh vegetables. I'd discussed moving to a more raw-based diet with J over his drink. I was very proud of him at lunch - in light of what we had discussed, he had a plate of crudites (with branston pickle!) and some rice cakes.
My first attempts at home sprouting were ready today - they are a bit on the short side (lack of warmth I think), but they certainly tasted ok.
J spent more time today on the Brain Pop site which he is really enjoying - I'd really recommend looking at it if you haven't already.
I also found a nice site for younger children looking into healthy eating which is worth looking at.
This evening, as dh is off work (but will be working tomorrow, 14th), I gave dh the card that I had made him for valentines. I felt a bit goofy giving him a homemade card, but he seemed to appreciate it.
We have never bought each other birthday or Christmas presents, but we have always gone out for a meal or a day on Valentines, and on our wedding anniversary (which somewhat sadly is 9/11). I guess to us marking our union is so much more meaningful to us than another year in age. As Christians, also, we don't find giving each other presents a reflection on how we feel about Christmas. It grieves both of us that this year we cannot afford to go out for a meal - the first time in 12 years.
Still, the boys are ready for bed sharp, and we have waited to have our dinner when they go up in a short while. We have a saved-bottle of wine in the fridge, and we will still celebrate our relationship together, and thank God for the blessing that our marriage is to us.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
On the mend
This morning dh went to a new church to "try out" the service. We've been out of regular fellowship for nearly a year and are in real need of it. The church he went to are trying out a new format, with a separate meeting for the youth of the church.
We planned to return in the afternoon for that service, but he got called into work. It was a tough call - on the one hand, what could be more important that getting along to the church. On the other hand, with our finances, the honourable thing to do is to pay our bills and to work a rest day made up for being off sick twice last week.
The boys worked well today. I had emailed them each a link to a learning website and, when they checked their emails this morning, they clicked on the links and each spent half and hour on the sites. The idea worked so well that I may make it a regular thing. J learnt about the history of Valentines, and S learnt some natural history. Later, J also went on a fabulous science site given to me via the Education Otherwise list.
Up until mid afternoon I still felt very ill. However, dh kindly prepared dinner before he left for work so I ate with the boys. So far, I feel ok - that's the first food to stay down for 48 hrs so hopefully I am on the mend.
This evening I joined some new groups, kindly recommended by lvg4him in connection with CF/GF and raw diets. I also started work putting together the journals to return with our Flat visitors. Unfortunately, because we have been ill we have not done as much as I had hoped so perhaps their owners will let us keep them longer. In the meantime, I'm racking my brains for something to send back with them (other than leaflets etc). As they are going from the UK to the US, my original intention to send some chalk from the North Downs seems a bit unwise - I can see customs worrying about the white powder in the envelopes...
I must just thank all of you who have extended the hand of friendship to me, via this blog, and for the prayers (known and unknown) for my family. I am truly touched and blessed by your support. Thank you for also tolerating my moans and whinging over the past week - I don't think the blog has made interesting reading so your patience is appreciated!
We planned to return in the afternoon for that service, but he got called into work. It was a tough call - on the one hand, what could be more important that getting along to the church. On the other hand, with our finances, the honourable thing to do is to pay our bills and to work a rest day made up for being off sick twice last week.
The boys worked well today. I had emailed them each a link to a learning website and, when they checked their emails this morning, they clicked on the links and each spent half and hour on the sites. The idea worked so well that I may make it a regular thing. J learnt about the history of Valentines, and S learnt some natural history. Later, J also went on a fabulous science site given to me via the Education Otherwise list.
Up until mid afternoon I still felt very ill. However, dh kindly prepared dinner before he left for work so I ate with the boys. So far, I feel ok - that's the first food to stay down for 48 hrs so hopefully I am on the mend.
This evening I joined some new groups, kindly recommended by lvg4him in connection with CF/GF and raw diets. I also started work putting together the journals to return with our Flat visitors. Unfortunately, because we have been ill we have not done as much as I had hoped so perhaps their owners will let us keep them longer. In the meantime, I'm racking my brains for something to send back with them (other than leaflets etc). As they are going from the UK to the US, my original intention to send some chalk from the North Downs seems a bit unwise - I can see customs worrying about the white powder in the envelopes...
I must just thank all of you who have extended the hand of friendship to me, via this blog, and for the prayers (known and unknown) for my family. I am truly touched and blessed by your support. Thank you for also tolerating my moans and whinging over the past week - I don't think the blog has made interesting reading so your patience is appreciated!
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Codes, loaves and woes
As the children had all recovered, my Mum offered to have all three of them today during the day whilst dh was at work. The idea was that this would give me a chance to catch up on all of my jobs.
As no-one else was in the house, I felt it silly to put the heating on and put my snuggly dressing gown on over the top of my clothes, with a second pair of socks. Thank goodness the postman didn't need to knock today.
However, after 3 1/2 hours sitting at the computer, updating my internet shopping site, I was absolutely freezing. I took a break to turn my hand to my first gluten free loaf. I justified having the electric fire on in order to "prove" the loaves!
Unfortunately, after remembering to stop and have some lunch, I was ill again.
Things kinda deteriated after that. I struggled on at the pc but to be honest, writing javascript/html with some kind of gastric flu is not a good idea!
I took another break to make some fairy cakes - gluten free. These at least looked like the real thing. The loaves - well, I don't know yet how they taste but they look like cast concrete door stops.
I finally gave up at 6.30pm, put the fire back on, and - gasp - watched some television. Do you know, it actually does channels for adults, not just for children? I hadn't realised that ;-)
The boys came home in fine spirits, and tasted the cakes
. Today at their Nan's they had watched another dvd from BT, this time about not making hoax emergency calls. J then spent an hour on two great Imagine the Universe cds that we received from NASA (posting to the UK as well!). S read his book to Nan. I was proud of them for doing their learning whilst they were there.
I think it's going to be another early night for me. The trouble is, as a Mum, you don't get the chance to have a day off sick to get better. Who mothers the mothers?! I hate the way that it makes every cold or bug drag on so.
Mutter, mutter, mumble, feeling sorry for myself....
As no-one else was in the house, I felt it silly to put the heating on and put my snuggly dressing gown on over the top of my clothes, with a second pair of socks. Thank goodness the postman didn't need to knock today.
However, after 3 1/2 hours sitting at the computer, updating my internet shopping site, I was absolutely freezing. I took a break to turn my hand to my first gluten free loaf. I justified having the electric fire on in order to "prove" the loaves!Unfortunately, after remembering to stop and have some lunch, I was ill again.
Things kinda deteriated after that. I struggled on at the pc but to be honest, writing javascript/html with some kind of gastric flu is not a good idea!I took another break to make some fairy cakes - gluten free. These at least looked like the real thing. The loaves - well, I don't know yet how they taste but they look like cast concrete door stops.
I finally gave up at 6.30pm, put the fire back on, and - gasp - watched some television. Do you know, it actually does channels for adults, not just for children? I hadn't realised that ;-)
The boys came home in fine spirits, and tasted the cakes
. Today at their Nan's they had watched another dvd from BT, this time about not making hoax emergency calls. J then spent an hour on two great Imagine the Universe cds that we received from NASA (posting to the UK as well!). S read his book to Nan. I was proud of them for doing their learning whilst they were there.I think it's going to be another early night for me. The trouble is, as a Mum, you don't get the chance to have a day off sick to get better. Who mothers the mothers?! I hate the way that it makes every cold or bug drag on so.
Mutter, mutter, mumble, feeling sorry for myself....
Friday, February 10, 2006
Going Gluten Free
Hubby stayed home today in the end. Not only was he unwell this morning stil, but I was ill through the night.
As the day progressed, though, I felt better and this evening whilst I still feel wiped out, my stomach ache has gone for the first time in days.
The boys concentrated on maths this morning, with an hour at the table working through various worksheets that I had printed out for them. They also carried on with their game from yesterday. As it involveds adding up two dice, and calculating damaged to ships etc, I told them that counts as learning too. The attempts at resolving the inevitable arguements count as learning patience and tolerance
In the afternoon I needed to go shopping. We are considering going on a gluten and casein free diet to see if this helps S with his aspergers and J with his emotional outburst/AS traits. This has involved a lot of research on the theories, the products and the recipes. I will now have to add a whole new section to our family website cookbook for GF/CF diets! J said I should re-write it all, with an opening page letting people chose between regular, vegetarian, and CF/GF recipes! I'll just pop off and do that then...
Once again, the people on the HE special needs list have been invaluable with advice and recipe ideas. At times like this I feel very positive about the benefits of having the internet
Anyone with any good recipes - especially dairy-free - using ingredients I can get here in the UK, please, please leave a comment!
Dh is currently goal-setting for the spring. We need to work around the finance issue and find a way to make our income and expenditure match. We have cut back on everything, but he still doesn't earn enough. All our bills are so much lower than most other families that I know, so its not just a case of being frugal. The real, big issue is the debt that we are paying off. Three years ago dh was so ill that he worked for only some 8 months out of 2 years. At that time things got extremely desparate and we resorted to using up credit on store/credit cards to meet the clothing and food needs of the family at times. This now means that over a third of all our monthly outgoings are on debt-repayment. Without that, we would be able to manage on a thrifty budget. I console myself with knowing that we are doing the Christian thing by repaying what we owe, and keep trusting in God to guide us through. If we can keep our eyes fixed on Him, I know that it will all work out according to His purpose.
All prayers gratefully received.
As the day progressed, though, I felt better and this evening whilst I still feel wiped out, my stomach ache has gone for the first time in days.
The boys concentrated on maths this morning, with an hour at the table working through various worksheets that I had printed out for them. They also carried on with their game from yesterday. As it involveds adding up two dice, and calculating damaged to ships etc, I told them that counts as learning too. The attempts at resolving the inevitable arguements count as learning patience and tolerance
In the afternoon I needed to go shopping. We are considering going on a gluten and casein free diet to see if this helps S with his aspergers and J with his emotional outburst/AS traits. This has involved a lot of research on the theories, the products and the recipes. I will now have to add a whole new section to our family website cookbook for GF/CF diets! J said I should re-write it all, with an opening page letting people chose between regular, vegetarian, and CF/GF recipes! I'll just pop off and do that then...
Once again, the people on the HE special needs list have been invaluable with advice and recipe ideas. At times like this I feel very positive about the benefits of having the internet
Anyone with any good recipes - especially dairy-free - using ingredients I can get here in the UK, please, please leave a comment!
Dh is currently goal-setting for the spring. We need to work around the finance issue and find a way to make our income and expenditure match. We have cut back on everything, but he still doesn't earn enough. All our bills are so much lower than most other families that I know, so its not just a case of being frugal. The real, big issue is the debt that we are paying off. Three years ago dh was so ill that he worked for only some 8 months out of 2 years. At that time things got extremely desparate and we resorted to using up credit on store/credit cards to meet the clothing and food needs of the family at times. This now means that over a third of all our monthly outgoings are on debt-repayment. Without that, we would be able to manage on a thrifty budget. I console myself with knowing that we are doing the Christian thing by repaying what we owe, and keep trusting in God to guide us through. If we can keep our eyes fixed on Him, I know that it will all work out according to His purpose.
All prayers gratefully received.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
More ill health
Praise God, the children are all back to reasonable health today. W still has tummy ache but otherwise, they are all ok.
Learning was laid back today. J and S played nearly all day with a pirate/treasure island game which they set up in the hall.
I spent most of the day flitting between playing with W and forcing myself to do some of my eBay work. I really didn't feel up to it and have only managed to list a few items.
Dh came home ill from work - I think we have the influenza B bug that is also peaking in the UK at the moment, as all the symptoms match.
We have just shared one fisherman's pie together - pitiful!
I hope we recover quickly as I can't help but be aware of all the things I should be doing that I'm not... Not feeling very "half full" today.
Learning was laid back today. J and S played nearly all day with a pirate/treasure island game which they set up in the hall.
I spent most of the day flitting between playing with W and forcing myself to do some of my eBay work. I really didn't feel up to it and have only managed to list a few items.
Dh came home ill from work - I think we have the influenza B bug that is also peaking in the UK at the moment, as all the symptoms match.
We have just shared one fisherman's pie together - pitiful!
I hope we recover quickly as I can't help but be aware of all the things I should be doing that I'm not... Not feeling very "half full" today.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Winter Sickness
Well, that explains my lethargy yesterday evening..
Have you heard about the winter sickness bug that is raging in Britain at the moment? Well, it arrived here last night.
It appears that one catches it from being around someone else being ill, and it can then incubate for up to a week. I presume we must have caught it from my friend last week when their children were ill at our house.
Last night my youngest starting being sick at 12am and carried on every half an hour until 4. My eldest started at 1 and went on till 4.30. Needless to say, I got very little sleep.
Both myself and my husband are also feeling very rough and totally drained. He called in sick to work today and we have all just sat around. I have never, ever known our house to be with quiet!
J still managed to do some learning, going on to the Government's Red Box site in order to take his mind of his tummy (well that's one use for taxes!).
I managed to takes photos today of the stuff that my friend brought over last night to sell on eBay - now I just need to find the energy to write the listings!
Have you heard about the winter sickness bug that is raging in Britain at the moment? Well, it arrived here last night.
It appears that one catches it from being around someone else being ill, and it can then incubate for up to a week. I presume we must have caught it from my friend last week when their children were ill at our house.
Last night my youngest starting being sick at 12am and carried on every half an hour until 4. My eldest started at 1 and went on till 4.30. Needless to say, I got very little sleep.
Both myself and my husband are also feeling very rough and totally drained. He called in sick to work today and we have all just sat around. I have never, ever known our house to be with quiet!
J still managed to do some learning, going on to the Government's Red Box site in order to take his mind of his tummy (well that's one use for taxes!).
I managed to takes photos today of the stuff that my friend brought over last night to sell on eBay - now I just need to find the energy to write the listings!
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
New Friends, and Old Friends
Not sure if it is where I am fighting off another cold, but I feel absolutely drained this evening. It's the first time, since my new year commitment to this blog, that I have really not wanted to sit and write.
However, discipline is most effective when it is such a conscious effort, so here I am!
This morning I caught up on some of the long overdue housework and general household/administrative phone calls that I'd been putting off for ages.
After lunch, we collected another family and then went to the indoor playcentre that our group meets at fortnightly. A new family had come along to join, and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It's not just the children that benefit from meeting such a wide range of people through home education. As parents, we get the chance to make meaningful contact with other adults - something I never managed to do in the school playground.
We know that at the very least we all have something in common - a commitment to our children that means we have put their needs above our own in such a significant way. That makes a level playing field that enables families to meet across any social, religious or economic "divide".
The children all got on very well, and the family are definately a very positive addition to the group.
At home I tried to catch up on some background work for the group, organising and planning future events. That made me late in getting around to dinner, so out with the fish fingers!
In the evening, my best friend came around with some items that we are hoping to sell together on eBay. We met through work a year and a half ago and I have clicked with J in a way that I have never done with another woman. It was an all too brief meeting, but we are due to meet for lunch on Thursday which I am seriously looking forward to (I'll be without the children too!).
Have just picked dh up from the station - the boys get to stay up to see him which is nice but means we are now all very late and very tired.
I don't think this has been my most useful blog to date - maybe I should have given in to the temptation to just go to bed! Thanks for reading!
However, discipline is most effective when it is such a conscious effort, so here I am!
This morning I caught up on some of the long overdue housework and general household/administrative phone calls that I'd been putting off for ages.
After lunch, we collected another family and then went to the indoor playcentre that our group meets at fortnightly. A new family had come along to join, and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It's not just the children that benefit from meeting such a wide range of people through home education. As parents, we get the chance to make meaningful contact with other adults - something I never managed to do in the school playground.
We know that at the very least we all have something in common - a commitment to our children that means we have put their needs above our own in such a significant way. That makes a level playing field that enables families to meet across any social, religious or economic "divide".
The children all got on very well, and the family are definately a very positive addition to the group.
At home I tried to catch up on some background work for the group, organising and planning future events. That made me late in getting around to dinner, so out with the fish fingers!
In the evening, my best friend came around with some items that we are hoping to sell together on eBay. We met through work a year and a half ago and I have clicked with J in a way that I have never done with another woman. It was an all too brief meeting, but we are due to meet for lunch on Thursday which I am seriously looking forward to (I'll be without the children too!).
Have just picked dh up from the station - the boys get to stay up to see him which is nice but means we are now all very late and very tired.
I don't think this has been my most useful blog to date - maybe I should have given in to the temptation to just go to bed! Thanks for reading!
Monday, February 06, 2006
I've worked out how to include pictures!
I don't know if you have a dedicated "classroom"? For us, we use the dinning room part of our kitchen/diner. We put cork tiles on one wall and then painted them over in the same paint as the wall. When the boys have finished a worksheet or drawing, we pin it onto the tiles, moving pieces upwards all the time. When a piece reaches the top, it is taken down and put away into their own folder. We keep this folder for our own benefit, but also with a view to producing it should we wish to at an LEA inspection.I am also a keen collector of teacher packs - so far, we have bought precisely two resources for our homeschooling - everything else is free from the internet or made ourselves. The posters that accompany some packs make useful additions to the walls both there and in the boys' bedrooms.
This morning, S & W made Valentine cards, which were quite beautiful. J worked on a science CD called "Stuff & Substance" from SEP. It "uses videos and animations to illustrate phenomena and the related particle explanations in a structured programme". Although it is aimed at children some 3+ years older than him, J found it fascinating and his answers to my questions showed that he understood what he was seeing. No wonder he was so bored in school!We had a lunch date with some HE friends, after which we all went to play in their nearby park. I love the chance that HE gives the boys to mix with all other ages, and I definately prefer to see them playing with toys rather than watching the sort of cartoons that all their "peers" enjoy watching.
I was going to mention something else that I did today, but as it is a secret for dh, and he reads my blog, I'd better not! I'll tell you soon ;-)
Tomorrow we are hoping to have several of the new families in the group turn up to an event for the first time. It is so rewarding to see the group growing and to watch the relationships forming.
However, I am quite behind on a lot of things that I have been working on, so advice on how to manufacture at least 5 more (child free) hours a day would be appreciated (that don't involve me having to stay up through the night!).
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Flats, Hills and Tables
It took a lot of courage, and many hours of agonising, to decide to post one of my stories yesterday instead of my "usual" blog. I usually only write for myself - just to "get it out", so posting one on the web was quite daunting. Thank you to those who commented - both on and off line. Your encouragement was lovely.
This morning we got out as quickly as we could after breakfast to take our three Flat Travellers to Rochester. We took photos of the cathedral, castle, and Charles Dicken's writing house. Sadly, the Visitor Centre was closed so that means a return trip during the week to collect some leaflets and take more photos. A couple of elderly ladies questionned what we were doing (yes, we did look a bit odd) and thought the idea of the Flat Travellers was lovely! We got in a little plug for home education too!
I am part of the FreeRecycle Network in the UK, linking up people who would rather see something go to a good home, than the landfill site. Today we took possession of a beautiful dining room table and six chairs. Our one was very chipped, and we struggled to sit all five of us at it. We try to practice the gift of hospitality and it is difficult to find both chairs, and space at the table, for visiting diners.
This table has central legs, so no arguing over sitting "on a leg" and the chairs are comfortable and strong, and includes two charver chairs. A little kiss from God - the chairs are upholstered in the same colours as our dining room! A perfect match.
Now, as you know, there is nothing straightforward about any sort of housework... In order to have the table, we had to put the old (fold down) table in S & W's room for them to put on their computer (also received free via the recycle network). This meant not only tidying their room, but then taking out my grandfather's old bat wing chair which was in their room. To find a home for that, meant putting all my "to sell on eBay one day" boxes up in the loft, and tidying OUR bedroom, in order to clear a corner for the chair!
Towards the end of that task, our friends came over to go out for another walk. We revisited the Blue Bell Hill site, over the channel tunnel rail link, and then a brisk 1 1/2 round walk up and down the hill. We waited around to try and see a train (and take a photo to send back with our Flats), but gave up in the end - however just before we got back in our cars one whizzed by, and we caught a glimpse. But no photo - another return trip!
Home for a lovely family dinner at our new table, then haircuts all round for the boys.
We have certainly managed to fill dh's one day off - as usual!
This morning we got out as quickly as we could after breakfast to take our three Flat Travellers to Rochester. We took photos of the cathedral, castle, and Charles Dicken's writing house. Sadly, the Visitor Centre was closed so that means a return trip during the week to collect some leaflets and take more photos. A couple of elderly ladies questionned what we were doing (yes, we did look a bit odd) and thought the idea of the Flat Travellers was lovely! We got in a little plug for home education too!
I am part of the FreeRecycle Network in the UK, linking up people who would rather see something go to a good home, than the landfill site. Today we took possession of a beautiful dining room table and six chairs. Our one was very chipped, and we struggled to sit all five of us at it. We try to practice the gift of hospitality and it is difficult to find both chairs, and space at the table, for visiting diners.
This table has central legs, so no arguing over sitting "on a leg" and the chairs are comfortable and strong, and includes two charver chairs. A little kiss from God - the chairs are upholstered in the same colours as our dining room! A perfect match.
Now, as you know, there is nothing straightforward about any sort of housework... In order to have the table, we had to put the old (fold down) table in S & W's room for them to put on their computer (also received free via the recycle network). This meant not only tidying their room, but then taking out my grandfather's old bat wing chair which was in their room. To find a home for that, meant putting all my "to sell on eBay one day" boxes up in the loft, and tidying OUR bedroom, in order to clear a corner for the chair!
Towards the end of that task, our friends came over to go out for another walk. We revisited the Blue Bell Hill site, over the channel tunnel rail link, and then a brisk 1 1/2 round walk up and down the hill. We waited around to try and see a train (and take a photo to send back with our Flats), but gave up in the end - however just before we got back in our cars one whizzed by, and we caught a glimpse. But no photo - another return trip!
Home for a lovely family dinner at our new table, then haircuts all round for the boys.
We have certainly managed to fill dh's one day off - as usual!
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Let me tell you a story..
The Courtroom
As the screen portrayed the evidence of the crimes, the judge sat watching the accused. Her hands gripped the rail before her, knuckles white with pressure. Emotions chased across her face matching the torrid changing scenes on the screen. Her relief was evident when the screen finally went blank. The visual torture was over, yet the pain of seeing her many crimes remained with her.
She dared not look at the judge. Her eyes strayed to the void of the screen, not even daring to think or analyse her feelings because of the intense pain she knew she’d find.
The Judgement
“How do you plead?”
She knew she was guilty of all of them—that is, she had committed them all—but as she was unaware at the time that some of the were crimes, could she be fairly judged as “guilty”? The words refused to go further than her throat, strangled by the tense know thre.
“Do you plead guilty?”
She nodded slowly. The judge prepared to read the sentence—death—but stopped as a note was passed to him. He looked up at the accused, a quizzical expression in his eyes.
The Rescue
“Someone wishes to speak in your defense before sentence is passed.” The judge took off his glasses. “It is a most unusual request but I see no reason why this person cannot be heard.”
The woman in the dock looked in bewilderment at the person entering the witness box opposite. He exuded a quiet, calm attitude that contrasted with the tense atmosphere of the courtroom. She was confused. She had never met this man before, she was sure of it, yet why would a stranger speak in her defence?
“Please make your statement quickly sir, we are busy today.”
Compassion Speaks
In an unhurried manner, the advocate turned to look at the judge. “I have not come to plead this woman’s innocence, Lord, I agree with the Court that she is guilty.”
The accused stiffened; tense again, fearing harm now from this man rather than help.
The advocate continued. “I would not wish justice to be perverted. Someone must be punished for these crimes. I come simply to offer myself in her place.”
The Substitute
From the dock the woman stared incredulously at the advocate. The judge shook his head. “Am I to understand that you are asking me to pass this woman’s judgement on your, instead?”
The man nodded.
“Why? Are you guilty of these crimes too?”
“No, my Lord, I am innocent.”
“What then, can be gained by such an action? How can I let an innocent man die and a guilty person go free?”
“But I will take her crimes by taking her punished. By taking her crimes onto myself she is, then, no longer guilty of anything and may go free.”
The judge sat back, stunned by the apparent logic of the reply.
“You need have no fear in releasing her. After seeing my death, for crimes she has committed, she will be a changed woman and won’t offend again.”
The Power of Love
“Your words are wise young man, and what you say holds true. Yet, again, I must ask you—why are you doing this?”
For the first time, the advocate turned and looked towards the dock. The woman met his gaze and stifled a gasp. His expression was rich with love—not romantic love, but a deep, indefinable love. She felt saturated by it, warmed by it, and deeply moved. Silently, and without knowing why, she began to weep.
Loved from the very Beginning
“I do it because I love this woman. I have known her all her life and have watched her growing. I know the depths of her, the goodness and love she possesses but which has never been allowed to surface. Through my death she will be set free and will be able to start afresh in that love.”
Freedom!
The judge nodded slowly. What the man had said felt right, though something in him found it hard to accept. Instinct overuled logic and he turned to the sobbing woman. “I don’t know what you did to deserve such love as this, but it has saved you. As this man is willing, I am prepared to pass your sentence upon him. You will be declared innocent and released, but he must die in your place.”
“Court dismissed!”
The Man
Receiving permission from the judge, the advocate stepped down and walked slowly across to the woman in the cock. He reached out and gently lifted her face up t his with his hand. His touch felt like a warm breeze and quietened her sobs.
“Don’t cry, my child.” he whispered.
Triumphant Love
“I .. I can’t let you d .. Do this!” she stammered, overawed..
“It is not in your power to stop me. I must do it. One day you will understand. Now go. Be free. Yet you will not be free of me. I will stay with you, in your heart and mind forever. You will live now—live a true life, an abundant life. I will watch over you and guide you always.”
She looked at him—perplexed. “You speak as if you are not going to die?”
He smiled. “I have already died, and yet you see me now—alive. I bore your sins a long time ago, my child.” He took his hand away from her face but continued to hhold her with his faze.
Although his words made no sense and she felt that she was drowning, something in his expression stopped her questioning. She became dizzy and felt herself drop to the floor.
Seconds later she came round, and sat up.
Dream or Reality?
The streetlight glowed through her bedroom curtains and the house was still. In a sudden rush she remembered her dream and, smiling for the first time in months, she lay back down and closed her eyes. “Thank you Lord” she whispered “now I understand.”
She turned over. The tears in her eyes, this time, were tears of job and not of pain, and soon she slept.
The Lord watched His child sleep -
and He was pleased.
© Ann Newstead 1993
As the screen portrayed the evidence of the crimes, the judge sat watching the accused. Her hands gripped the rail before her, knuckles white with pressure. Emotions chased across her face matching the torrid changing scenes on the screen. Her relief was evident when the screen finally went blank. The visual torture was over, yet the pain of seeing her many crimes remained with her.
She dared not look at the judge. Her eyes strayed to the void of the screen, not even daring to think or analyse her feelings because of the intense pain she knew she’d find.
The Judgement
“How do you plead?”
She knew she was guilty of all of them—that is, she had committed them all—but as she was unaware at the time that some of the were crimes, could she be fairly judged as “guilty”? The words refused to go further than her throat, strangled by the tense know thre.
“Do you plead guilty?”
She nodded slowly. The judge prepared to read the sentence—death—but stopped as a note was passed to him. He looked up at the accused, a quizzical expression in his eyes.
The Rescue
“Someone wishes to speak in your defense before sentence is passed.” The judge took off his glasses. “It is a most unusual request but I see no reason why this person cannot be heard.”
The woman in the dock looked in bewilderment at the person entering the witness box opposite. He exuded a quiet, calm attitude that contrasted with the tense atmosphere of the courtroom. She was confused. She had never met this man before, she was sure of it, yet why would a stranger speak in her defence?
“Please make your statement quickly sir, we are busy today.”
Compassion Speaks
In an unhurried manner, the advocate turned to look at the judge. “I have not come to plead this woman’s innocence, Lord, I agree with the Court that she is guilty.”
The accused stiffened; tense again, fearing harm now from this man rather than help.
The advocate continued. “I would not wish justice to be perverted. Someone must be punished for these crimes. I come simply to offer myself in her place.”
The Substitute
From the dock the woman stared incredulously at the advocate. The judge shook his head. “Am I to understand that you are asking me to pass this woman’s judgement on your, instead?”
The man nodded.
“Why? Are you guilty of these crimes too?”
“No, my Lord, I am innocent.”
“What then, can be gained by such an action? How can I let an innocent man die and a guilty person go free?”
“But I will take her crimes by taking her punished. By taking her crimes onto myself she is, then, no longer guilty of anything and may go free.”
The judge sat back, stunned by the apparent logic of the reply.
“You need have no fear in releasing her. After seeing my death, for crimes she has committed, she will be a changed woman and won’t offend again.”
The Power of Love
“Your words are wise young man, and what you say holds true. Yet, again, I must ask you—why are you doing this?”
For the first time, the advocate turned and looked towards the dock. The woman met his gaze and stifled a gasp. His expression was rich with love—not romantic love, but a deep, indefinable love. She felt saturated by it, warmed by it, and deeply moved. Silently, and without knowing why, she began to weep.
Loved from the very Beginning
“I do it because I love this woman. I have known her all her life and have watched her growing. I know the depths of her, the goodness and love she possesses but which has never been allowed to surface. Through my death she will be set free and will be able to start afresh in that love.”
Freedom!
The judge nodded slowly. What the man had said felt right, though something in him found it hard to accept. Instinct overuled logic and he turned to the sobbing woman. “I don’t know what you did to deserve such love as this, but it has saved you. As this man is willing, I am prepared to pass your sentence upon him. You will be declared innocent and released, but he must die in your place.”
“Court dismissed!”
The Man
Receiving permission from the judge, the advocate stepped down and walked slowly across to the woman in the cock. He reached out and gently lifted her face up t his with his hand. His touch felt like a warm breeze and quietened her sobs.
“Don’t cry, my child.” he whispered.
Triumphant Love
“I .. I can’t let you d .. Do this!” she stammered, overawed..
“It is not in your power to stop me. I must do it. One day you will understand. Now go. Be free. Yet you will not be free of me. I will stay with you, in your heart and mind forever. You will live now—live a true life, an abundant life. I will watch over you and guide you always.”
She looked at him—perplexed. “You speak as if you are not going to die?”
He smiled. “I have already died, and yet you see me now—alive. I bore your sins a long time ago, my child.” He took his hand away from her face but continued to hhold her with his faze.
Although his words made no sense and she felt that she was drowning, something in his expression stopped her questioning. She became dizzy and felt herself drop to the floor.
Seconds later she came round, and sat up.
Dream or Reality?
The streetlight glowed through her bedroom curtains and the house was still. In a sudden rush she remembered her dream and, smiling for the first time in months, she lay back down and closed her eyes. “Thank you Lord” she whispered “now I understand.”
She turned over. The tears in her eyes, this time, were tears of job and not of pain, and soon she slept.
The Lord watched His child sleep -
and He was pleased.
© Ann Newstead 1993
Friday, February 03, 2006
Reasons to homeschool
Funny old day today. I think I am suffering the emotional catch up from having been without dh this week. My heart goes out to families managing with only one parent - I truly do not know how they manage without a soulmate/helpmate there. For that matter, my heart goes out also to those with a partner, but in an unsupportive or abusive relationship. I truly relying on dh so much for my backup, sounding board and general best pal.
I spent some time this morning with W and J working on the Planet Food project. I was amazed at the skill of W's colouring (he's 3) and the concentration and effort on his part at colouring in each figure exactly as the picture in the book. I never said that he had to copy the pictures - he asked to see the pictures so he could chose which one he wanted to colour in.
Our third Flat Traveller arrived today. Sunday will be a whistle stop tour of the Medway as we try to introduce them to the sights and sounds of our area!
This afternoon I took S to the opticians to see if there was some visual cause behind his squints/funny faces when watching tv. According to the optician, he has perfect vision. However, I've raised the issue on our HE SP UK board and it seems that there could still be more behind it, with the optician not being able to pick up on anything other than the pure accurancy of sight. Issues such as light sensitivity, colour sensitivity etc would not be noted. Looks like I'll need to take this further.
Yesterday evening W picked up a large model of the earth from J's planetarium and said "hey, this is just like our planet". I was stunned! As far as I can tell, this has come about from the aforementioned Planet Food project, and the big picture of the earth at the start of the book that I read out to him (a lovely, classroom sized big picture book). As dh just said to me, upon hearing that story - "thank God this child won't be exposed to the school system and lose this, like the other two did".
Sums up why we homeschool, I guess.
I spent some time this morning with W and J working on the Planet Food project. I was amazed at the skill of W's colouring (he's 3) and the concentration and effort on his part at colouring in each figure exactly as the picture in the book. I never said that he had to copy the pictures - he asked to see the pictures so he could chose which one he wanted to colour in.
Our third Flat Traveller arrived today. Sunday will be a whistle stop tour of the Medway as we try to introduce them to the sights and sounds of our area!
This afternoon I took S to the opticians to see if there was some visual cause behind his squints/funny faces when watching tv. According to the optician, he has perfect vision. However, I've raised the issue on our HE SP UK board and it seems that there could still be more behind it, with the optician not being able to pick up on anything other than the pure accurancy of sight. Issues such as light sensitivity, colour sensitivity etc would not be noted. Looks like I'll need to take this further.
Yesterday evening W picked up a large model of the earth from J's planetarium and said "hey, this is just like our planet". I was stunned! As far as I can tell, this has come about from the aforementioned Planet Food project, and the big picture of the earth at the start of the book that I read out to him (a lovely, classroom sized big picture book). As dh just said to me, upon hearing that story - "thank God this child won't be exposed to the school system and lose this, like the other two did".
Sums up why we homeschool, I guess.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Hubby is home!
My parents visited today. They used to come weekly to help out with the children and/or the chores however, since my father has been ill, they have not been down. Today they visited for the first time in many weeks. Sadly, Mum was also unwell today. She has a recurring problem with her leg that is undiagnosed. Its a cross between phlebitis and an allergic reaction. Very nasty.
So I didn't quite get done today what I had hoped. Still, the duplicate Certificate for the Insurance turned up so the car is now taxed and back on the road!
I also got to go the library with my eldest, which was very pleasant. On the way, we discussed the psychology of shopping - prompted by the revamping of our local Sainsbury's branch. At the library, we took out some books on America. We now have two Flat Travellers staying with us, both from the US, so J suggested that he should find out more about the country as "all I know is from the cartoons".
S actually did more learning today that his brother, and achieved his daily target allowing him to spend time on some computer games (his beloved virtual railroad). I put out an appeal yesterday on the Home Educating Special Needs list for a penpal for the lad, and was touched by the large number of replies. He now has a number of new pals to email which has cheered him up immensely.
My husband is home! Hurray!
I picked him up from the station just after seven this evening. It is so good to have him back. Through the years, we have spent so little time apart. In fact, for more than half of the time we have been married we have worked together as well. People often ask us how we can spend so much time together without driving each other mad. I'm afraid I've never really understood the question!
I can't imagine life without him. God brought us together in a very amazing way, and has blessed us mightily.
He is the perfect match for me, the missing piece, and more than a soulmate. In these days of divorce, "partnerships", and other less than perfect relationships, I feel so very honoured to have been blessed with such a man.
Yes, we have our ups and downs, and we argue at times, but he is such a God-focussed, called person that I never doubt the security and purpose of our marriage.
I'm so glad he's back (can you tell?!).
So I didn't quite get done today what I had hoped. Still, the duplicate Certificate for the Insurance turned up so the car is now taxed and back on the road!
I also got to go the library with my eldest, which was very pleasant. On the way, we discussed the psychology of shopping - prompted by the revamping of our local Sainsbury's branch. At the library, we took out some books on America. We now have two Flat Travellers staying with us, both from the US, so J suggested that he should find out more about the country as "all I know is from the cartoons".
S actually did more learning today that his brother, and achieved his daily target allowing him to spend time on some computer games (his beloved virtual railroad). I put out an appeal yesterday on the Home Educating Special Needs list for a penpal for the lad, and was touched by the large number of replies. He now has a number of new pals to email which has cheered him up immensely.
My husband is home! Hurray!
I picked him up from the station just after seven this evening. It is so good to have him back. Through the years, we have spent so little time apart. In fact, for more than half of the time we have been married we have worked together as well. People often ask us how we can spend so much time together without driving each other mad. I'm afraid I've never really understood the question!I can't imagine life without him. God brought us together in a very amazing way, and has blessed us mightily.
He is the perfect match for me, the missing piece, and more than a soulmate. In these days of divorce, "partnerships", and other less than perfect relationships, I feel so very honoured to have been blessed with such a man.Yes, we have our ups and downs, and we argue at times, but he is such a God-focussed, called person that I never doubt the security and purpose of our marriage.
I'm so glad he's back (can you tell?!).
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Fighting ignorance
Our local government newspaper included a very offensive piece on truancy this week, which made no mention of the fact that children may legitamately be out of school through home education. It has the local home ed community up in arms and a large number of people have complained to a large number of official places. I hope that we see some results from it.
As a new member of our group said today "now I know what it feels like to be a minority!". It really is unfair that our Government does not, at any level, treat home education as equal to formal schooling. The public - and most officials - remain unbelievably ill-informed about the legally available option of education "otherwise".
I'm a soap-box kinda person
and I'm afraid things like this do rather get me steamed up. I don't know what the situation is like in the US or elsewhere in the world?
Anyway, during the day today we had visitors, being joined by another home ed family for most of the day. It was pleasant to have them around and certainly helped the boys. They also had two other visitors in the afternoon, when two home ed friends popped in with a belated gift for S. The older boys all had a great hour playing star wars!
Today J and S played a couple of games of chess, then went on line to do some learning. The BBC has a great new site for kids which J spent a lot of time on.
I came across a nice, free paper Valentine project today, which I think I may try. I also updated the Resource section of our website with learning project ideas ready for March.
Yesterday I came across a new blog, one by BritishColumbia. If you have time, check it out as she is asking for frugal tips for homeschooling - I think it's fabulous idea!
As a new member of our group said today "now I know what it feels like to be a minority!". It really is unfair that our Government does not, at any level, treat home education as equal to formal schooling. The public - and most officials - remain unbelievably ill-informed about the legally available option of education "otherwise".
I'm a soap-box kinda person
and I'm afraid things like this do rather get me steamed up. I don't know what the situation is like in the US or elsewhere in the world?Anyway, during the day today we had visitors, being joined by another home ed family for most of the day. It was pleasant to have them around and certainly helped the boys. They also had two other visitors in the afternoon, when two home ed friends popped in with a belated gift for S. The older boys all had a great hour playing star wars!
Today J and S played a couple of games of chess, then went on line to do some learning. The BBC has a great new site for kids which J spent a lot of time on.
I came across a nice, free paper Valentine project today, which I think I may try. I also updated the Resource section of our website with learning project ideas ready for March.
Yesterday I came across a new blog, one by BritishColumbia. If you have time, check it out as she is asking for frugal tips for homeschooling - I think it's fabulous idea!
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