Serenity Academy Journal

After Christmas Bliss

2008-12-31T16:33:00.000-05:00

After Christmas we took a trip down south to visit the family. We had a great time just hanging out and enjoying one another. God has really blessed us greatly this year.

Bowling fun

2008-12-26T16:19:00.000-05:00

Christmas Day (click the tab at top right to quiet audio)

2008-12-25T16:02:00.001-05:00

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

So we kept with our tradition and let the kids open one gift each tonight. The kids really get a kick out of this. Trinity got a pair of Hyde-Hitops that she has been dying for, Quan got, yes you guessed it, another video game, and Kennedy could not contain her joy about receiving Moon sand. Everyone had a great time sipping eggnog and making crazy holiday memories, and to top it off I got called off from work and didn't have to work tonight. I couldn't have asked for more.

Crafty Tuesday

2008-12-22T19:02:00.000-05:00

So after setting up the girls blog we headed home to make homemade ornaments and a gingerbread tree. This was our first year making popcorn ball ornaments and we had a lot of fun. Some of the kids gave up with only half decorated balls. but we pressed on until they were complete. After finishing the ornaments we took on the daunting task of making a gingerbread tree. Despite directions, we still managed to mess up the first batch of frosting. The tree eventually was finished and turned out quite nice! These are crafts that we will definitely do again next year.

Blogging is in the blood

2008-12-22T14:52:00.000-05:00

Today we hung out with our good friends Kim, Kalin, Sage, and Taimour to create a reading club blog for our older girls. The girls really enjoyed setting it up, and hopefully it will spark a love for reading in them. The two younger siblings had a blast being fabulous!

Deck the halls

2008-12-21T14:45:00.000-05:00

The kids had a great time finally decorating the tree. The tree was minimalistic to say the least, but the kids did it all by themselves this year!

Tis the season!

2008-12-20T15:41:00.002-05:00

Here are a few of many wonderful pictures taken by a local photographer, Paige. We took the photos downtown on a Sunday afternoon. The weather was great and so was the company. Check out more of Paige's work at http://elizabethpaigephotography.com

My husband rocks Friday

2008-12-19T15:29:00.000-05:00

My husband rocks because he's the sugar to my Kool-Aid! Red that is:)

Seriously McDonalds!

2008-12-18T13:49:00.002-05:00

Every time I go to McDonalds for coffee I order the same thing: a fresh medium cup of coffee with 1 squirt of sugar free syrup, 8 equal packs, and 4 creamers and each time a get a different variant of this request. Today I had to repeat my order 3 times and I still ended up with coffee without creamer or sugar. It's so bad that when I got home my nine year old said "so did they get your coffee right?" and I said "of course not" and she said "well hey, at least it's hot this time!" LOL:)

What the girls are learning

2008-12-18T13:20:00.004-05:00

Here is a picture of Kennedy learning how to roll her R in the word gracias.

Here are a few of the books we use daily

In our daily calendar we learned that today is the anniversary of New Jersey being the third state to ratify the constitution.
We also learned why birds migrate.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-17T22:54:00.000-05:00

Our resident owl we've nicknamed Hoot!

Trinity Cooks!

2008-12-16T19:30:00.000-05:00

Tonight was Trinity's night to fly solo in the kitchen. On the menu: Baked teriyaki chicken, vegatable rice, and string beans with red potatoes. The dinner was delicious and Trinity can't wait to cook again next week!

Parent observation day at ballet

2008-12-16T16:30:00.000-05:00

Today was parent observation day in Kennedy's ballet and tap class. Miss Robyn has done a wonderful job with the girls this year. This is Kennedy's third year and she absolutely loves it. All of the children had a great time showing off their new moves for all of the parents.

Family pics!

2008-12-14T18:15:00.000-05:00

So we finally got around to taking family pics today. The professional pics were taken by Paige, who was awesome. After she was done I pulled out the trusty camera to catch a few photos for the blog. I am so blessed to have a happy and healthy family. God is good!

Vince's Christmas Party

2008-12-12T18:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Sarafina!

2008-12-09T14:45:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday Auntie Dee-Dee!

2008-12-08T14:53:00.000-05:00

Happy birthday Grandma Dear

2008-12-07T17:09:00.001-05:00

It is such a blessing to say that today my granny celebrated her 87th birthday. My granny is such a wonderful woman in my life. I have experienced so many great times with this lady. Growing up I begged my mom to send my to Jacksonville so that granny and I could have our summers together. During the summer we had a routine, we got up early ( I'm talking early), went for a long walk (with our walking partner Mrs. Gladys, and our big stick) ate breakfast (granny's famous oatmeal, yummy!), watched the news, Donahue, The price is right, the news, the stories (if you are unfamiliar with this term, The Young and the Restless, Bold and the Beautiful, As the World Turns, and last but not least Guiding light, whew that was a mouthful!) After that we'd prepare our dinner, eat, and either head to bible study or start our evening t.v. time (you know, Jeopardy, and The Jokers wild!) And I can't forget our stash of goodies that we hid under granny's bed (a box full of every kind of candy you can think of!)
Granny has always been good company for me. I can talk to granny about anything and expect to get a straight answer, no matter what. Granny I love you sooooo much and I thank God for you and the opportunity to allow my girls to know and love you as much as I do! See ya at 88!

My husband rocks Friday

2008-12-05T15:17:00.000-05:00

My husband rocks because he completes my sentences, and most of the time he gets it right! LOL! Love you Bay, and stop calling me weenie (I'm goonna kill you mom for letting that one out:)

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T16:14:00.000-05:00

The girls had alot of fun helping mommy prepare thanksgiving dinner. Trinity and Kennedy picked and cleaned the greens, made the apple sage stuffing, added the finishing touches to the mac and cheese, and topped off the candied yams. I reminded the girls of all the things we have to be thankful for, not just today but everyday. God is good!

Ken's first soccer practice

2008-11-22T15:26:00.001-05:00

Today was Kennedy's first soccer practice so I put her on about four layers of clothes, grabbed dad and sissy and headed out to the field. I worked last night but I knew I couldn't miss my baby's first practice. It was freezing, well freezing for Florida, about 30 degrees with a wind chill factor of about 20! Practice went well, Kennedy has a very nice and patient coach. All of the children on the team were friendly. Ken had a blast and I think it's going to be a great season. Go Sharks!

My Husband Rocks Friday

2008-11-21T14:49:00.000-05:00

There are many adjectives that I could use to describe my husband, but reliable quickly comes to mind. No matter what, if he says it, he does it. Now I can be woman enough to say that I don't always reciprocate this trait, but don't worry, God ain't through with me yet!

Movies, Park, and Dinner

2008-11-20T19:54:00.006-05:00

Today the girls were promised a fun day out if they finished all of their chores and school work. Kennedy did a great job with counting by 2's, 5's, and tens, reading Go, Go, Go with no mistakes, and conquering 3 digit regrouping addition. Trinity got an early start on compound words,and the property of water. Once the work was out of the way we headed to the movies to meet the Huffs.
We saw Madagascar escape to Africa, it was so funny. After the movie the girls and I said goodbye to the Huffs and headed to the park to feed the ducks. The park is beautiful this time of year and the girls had alot of fun.
Our next stop was IHOP, there's nothing like breakfast for dinner. The girls caught daddy up on all the days events and of course Kennedy had something funny to say. Kennedy looks at her dad after he finished eating and says "daddy, how were your mashed downs?" that's Kennedy for hash browns!

Fall days

2008-11-18T09:05:00.000-05:00

Today the girls headed to their weekly activities. Kennedy went to gymnastics and found out that for the next session she has been moved up two classes. Kennedy is really excited about doing more on the big floor. In ballet/tap, Kennedy is doing well and preparing for the annual summer receital. Trinity is doing very well with her guitar lessons. Today she learned Happy Birthday and A little Jazz. Trin is getting better and better with reading the music.So volleyball season is over and the girls will start soccer later this week. Stay tuned for more pics and funny stories

My husband rocks Friday

2008-11-14T20:01:00.000-05:00

There's something to be said about a thoughtful man. After working all night I really appreciate my husband keeping the girls busy as to not disturb me while I sleep. As if that is not enough, Vince cooks breakfast for me and has the house smelling good with Sunday dinner. Just when I thought it couldn't get better, Vince surprised me with purchasing the ring I wanted for our anniversary. The ring is gorgeous, but the man is priceless! I love you Bay!

Kennedy's cheer dance receital

2008-11-14T19:44:00.001-05:00

Today was Kennedy's cheer dance receital. Kennedy really loves this class and was looking forward to this day. The girls did an awesome job. Kennedy's highlight of the night was receiving her first medal. Way to go Kennedy, mommy loves you!

Tooth # 6

2008-11-14T19:33:00.000-05:00

Today Kennedy lost tooth #6 and now affectionately refers to herself as "toothless wonder." Kennedy quickly informed me to call the tooth fairy and tell her not to come to our house, but grandma's instead. When I asked why she said "grandma's tooth fairy leaves more money!" What am I going to do with this girl!

It's fair time again!

2008-11-12T18:59:00.000-05:00

Volleyball banquet 08

2008-11-10T11:37:00.000-05:00

Baby Genesis

2008-11-09T10:43:00.000-05:00

It's so nice to see patients again after assisting with the delivery of one or several of their babies. On today I had the privelidge of assisting with the delivery of a patient that I took care of almost 6 years ago when she was having her first son. This was a very special delivery with a very special end product, Baby Genesis.

My husband rocks Friday

2008-11-07T12:31:00.000-05:00

My husband loves me and our children unconditionally. Whenever I spring something up at him he may gripe, but he always comes through. Trinity loved having her dad practice with her for volleyball and all of his hardknocks coaching from the side line. Even though Trinity's team didn't make the championship game, her dad let her know that "there's always next year." Kennedy had a blast at her party and daddy was right there, acting a fool with her. It is so wonderful to have such a supportive and caring family man. God is good!

Oh what a night!

2008-11-06T14:10:00.004-05:00

Where was this thing when we needed it? Last night Trinity ran her sister's bath water while Kennedy used the bathroom. Well 20 minutes later after walking in a pool of water on the dining room floor Vince discovers that Kennedy fell asleep on the toilet with the bath water running. What a mess! There is never a dull moment in this house!

Defeat and the after party (11/4/08)

2008-11-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

The girls lost in the semi-finals game, erasing their chance to play for the championship. Trinity was pretty bummed, but we made up for it with dinner with the Huffs. The kids had a great time laughing, playing and getting their faces painted by Sparkles the clown. The adults enjoyed watching the election results come in. We all had a great time, some of us more than others (what's up Whitney?:)
Smile Trin!
"I'm so sweet!"
Sarah, Trinity, and Kennedy. Hey where's Hannah?

Kennedy's 6th Birthday

2008-11-05T16:29:00.000-05:00

America the Beautiful

2008-11-05T09:02:00.006-05:00

Last night as my family and I sat around around the television we witnessed history, Barack Obama was elected the 44th president of The United States of America. When the words were spoken, my eyes began to well. My heart is so happy in this moment. I am so blessed that I could experience this history making event with my children and my husband. I don't think that I ever imagined that I would see this in my lifetime. I feel a new sense of love and devotion to this great nation. Today I can look my children in the eyes and tell them "you can be anything you want to be", and mean it.
This great man that is to be the next president has such a quiet strength. What I am most impressed by Barack is that he vowed to not change, and he has not. One thing in his speech last night that truly struck a cord was "At this defining moment, change has come to America." That was such a strong, powerful, and purposeful statement. Not too many years ago, African-American people were still segregated and suffering in this country. One of the most prolific speakers of our time, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said "Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom . A man can't ride you unless your back is bent."

Above all , Obama has a positive way of making you feel like not only is this his victory but also America's victory. Never has America seen such support and volunteerism as with this campaign. Obama did not overlook any one group of people. While this election was smeared with harsh words, lies and gossip I was amazed how Obama did not retaliate with the same. Again in the words of Dr. King " The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." Obama loves his family. Michelle Obama is a true inspiration of a phenomenal woman. Michelle has a presence that demands attention but is approachable. I am so glad that my daughters can see what kind of woman you can be when you put God first, embrace education, and remain true to who you are, as Michelle Obama has.

Last but certainly not least, I know that Barack Obama is not our savior. I know and believe in my heart that this country still needs prayer and guidance from my lord and savior Jesus Christ. I will continue to pray for Barack Obama and the people that make decisions for this great nation that they do things that are moral, good, and for the advancement of all people. In closing I leave you with an exert from the poem Still I rise by Maya Angelou:

Out of the hurts of history's shame, I rise. Up from a past that's rooted in pain, I rise. I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide welling and swelling, I bear in the tide leaving behind nights of terror and fear, I rise. Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear, I rise. Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise, I rise, I rise.

Wednesday morning!

2008-11-04T12:35:00.001-05:00

Election day!

2008-11-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

Today the girls and I got in the car early and headed to our precinct to cast our vote. This election is historic in many ways and I am so blessed that I had my girls at my side the whole time. The children have learned many things about politics over the last several months. The most important thing that I have told them is that you have to vote or you don't have a say!

Victory!

2008-11-04T12:14:00.000-05:00

Trinity and her team "the Mustangs" had a nail biting victory in the beginning of a two night semi-final. The girls will play again on 11/4 to determine whether or not they will be in the championship match on 11/5/08. Trinity was the MVP serving out once and returning for 4 points. You go girl!

Fun at the museum

2008-11-04T12:02:00.000-05:00

Kennedy has a blast playing after her morning class" On the farm."
Kennedy and Trinity being nice, for a minute anyway!
Kennedy loves playing on this old train at the museum.
The girls playing on the tire swing. Hannah was covering her face, she was over all the camera time.

On the farm

2008-11-04T11:53:00.000-05:00

Today the girls went to the Jr. Museum for their monthly homeschool class where today's class was titled "on the farm." The girls got to see how houses look back in the 1800 and early 1900's. The girls saw how people dressed, what they ate, and how they live. Here are a few thoughts from the girls:
Trinity: I saw a cotton plant for the first time and learned that slaves had to pick many bags of cotton from prickly plants. I also learned that people back in this day usually split their homes. They had one section of the house where they slept and another where they cooked. Many houses back then were burned down due to lantern fires, so seperating the houses was a smart idea.
Kennedy: I learned that people used to have many animals that that had for food. We saw a cow that helped make the butter we ate today.

Trinity churning homemade butter made out of heavy whipping cream. The girls got to sample some on a cracker, yummy!
Kennedy using an old plower.
Trinity touching a cotton plant for the first time.

Happy Halloween (October 31, 2008

2008-11-02T09:06:00.003-05:00

The girls had a blast trick or treating with our family and friends. Kennedy was Daphne from "Scooby Doo" and Trinity was Morticia. By the end of the night the girls were so over me and my camera!

My husband rocks Friday

2008-10-31T08:51:00.004-04:00

Yes, it's that time again. Now I had to really think hard on this Friday's reasons why my husband rocks, he's had a less than stellar week (JK). My husband rocks moment this week would have to be when my husband surprised me on Wed. after Trinity's volleyball game and took me ring shopping. I've been hassling Vince for sometime now about how I wanted an upgrade, but with the current state of our economy I retracted my request. One thing I've learned in this past ten years of marriage is that his debt is my debt! He let me pick out the ring of my choice, but once we got the overwhelming total that was another story. Vince was still willing to buy it, but I said " I appreciate the thought, but having you is enough!" This man never ceases to amaze me!

Weeee!

2008-10-28T22:17:00.000-04:00

This was the cutest picture, I had to blog about it. Ok, that's Kennedy showing off some of her new moves from gymnastics and that adorable little appendage is Kennedy's little cousin, Anaya. Anaya is soooo cute. She loves trying to do whatever her big cousins are doing. Anaya attempted to do a back bend herself, but decided hanging on to Kennedy's hips was way more exciting! You rock Anaya!

It's our anniversary! (10/24/08)

2008-10-28T22:05:00.000-04:00

Today we celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary. I can't believe it's been ten years already. I can remember the day I walked down the aisle holding my daddy's arm, crying and thinking " I'm about to get married!" That day I made a commitment for the rest of my life. My mother once told me that marriage is the hardest job you will ever have, and boy was she right. Marriage comes with many ups and many downs. You find out many things you thought you knew about yourself and your partner. It can be very hard to put so much trust, love, and dedication into one person. Vince and I have been blessed with many things through this union such as our children and our home. I truly know that God gives us who and what we need, always. Happy anniversary honey, I look forward to many more!

The King Center (10/23/08)

2008-10-28T21:34:00.003-04:00

Today the family packed our things and headed to Atlanta, Georgia. For our first organized field trip, we visited the The King Center. The girls learned a lot about the civil rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Trinity- I did not know that not too long ago black people and white people were segregated. I also learned that Dr. Martin Luther King used some things he learned from Gandhi in India to help him in his fight for equal rights using non-violence.

Kennedy- I learned that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was married, had four kids, and used to bring his wife carnations. Dr. King was brave and died so I can live the way I do now.

This was an awesome experience to share with my entire family.

Kennedy's week in review (10/20- 10/24)

2008-10-28T20:15:00.001-04:00

Kennedy had a good week as well. Kennedy is doing really well with her school work. This week she worked on counting by tens, telling time, sight words, and reading words that end in at, ad, an, and ag. Mommy is very proud of her.

This week in review

2008-10-26T18:04:00.000-04:00

Trinity's week went fairly well. All of the course work was done on time in preparation for our trip to Atlanta. Trinity is learning many new and exciting subjects, here is a break down:

1) In english I am learning about plural and singular nouns like flag and flags.
2) In science I am learning about gravity. Did you know that gravity causes you to be almost weightless in a swimming pool?
3) In Florida history I learned that Father Lewis Cancer was a missionary not an explorer.
4) In bible I read about how Jesus healed that blind man who had a problem with his speech.
5)In literature and creative writing I am reading the book Saved at Sea. In chapter two I read about how lighthouses are made with rocks and sand. Lighthouses warn people when a storm or bad weather is coming.
6) In word building I am perfecting my cursive writing.
7) In social studies I am learning about absolute Paul.
8) In math I am working on simple algebra and division.

Volleyball days Oct. 22, 2008

2008-10-26T17:47:00.000-04:00

Here is a picture of a birthday card that Kennedy made for her volleyball friend Kyia. Kennedy put a lot of love and hard work into this.

Of course, as soon as we got to the court Kennedy had to present Kyia with her creation. Kyia was so surprised and loved the card.

Trinity was up for the big serve. Trin is getting better with getting every serve over the net. Now we are working on digging for the returns! Go Trin!

Here is Kennedy smiling for the camera. Kennedy enjoys smiling even more now that she is missing so many teeth!

My husband rocks friday

2008-10-10T12:13:00.001-04:00

I can think of many reasons why husband rocked this pass week, but I'll only list a couple for the sake of making this a really long posting. Twice this past week my husband had dinner on the table and waiting after a long 12hr shift at work. On one of those days I was also greeted with flowers, just cause! My husband also made sure that the girls got their weekend homework done and he even helped Trinity with her serves and returns outside on the volleyball court. I can't express enough how much I love and appreciate this man. God is definitely in the blessing business and he is a prime example! I love you sweetie!

Another tooth!

2008-10-10T12:01:00.000-04:00

First, let me say that I am not a fan of looking at or pulling teeth. I know that I am a nurse and I see a lot of things that would gross out the average person, but I don't do teeth! Thankfully kennedy's last tooth came out in a sandwich and this one was pulled by her pal Hannah. I know what you guys are thinking, that I'm going to pull another tooth scandal, but I'm not. I've got a couple of dollars and I'm ready to deliver!

Bear days

2008-10-09T18:18:00.000-04:00

Yesterday the girls took part in the National bring your bear to school/work day

My Husband Rocks Friday

2008-10-03T09:13:00.005-04:00

So I was on a fellow homeschooler and blogger's page and something caught my eye...

This is a group of women that celebrate having wonderful husbands. I thought this was a great idea. Now I know it must be love that I am entertaining dedicating a dayof posting about how my husband rocks, especially in those times when I'm fighting back the negative things I want to say! God is good and I'm glad he is teaching me how to "control my flow (my mouth)."
My husband rocks because despite our difference of opinion last night he still made sure that he kissed me goodbye on the forehead before he left for work this morning. Sometimes it's the little things that make such a big impact. I love you "Bakilow."

Say cheese

2008-10-02T19:13:00.000-04:00

The official "Top Models"

2008-10-02T18:26:00.000-04:00

Kennedy and her friend Kiyah

I know, shame on me!

2008-10-02T17:15:00.008-04:00

Ok ,so let me start by saying I know what I did was wrong and I will try hard not to ever do it again. Let's see here where should I start. Yesterday Kennedy lost her third tooth...

She was so excited that the tooth fairy was going to come visit her, that she prepared a special snack for her all by herself....

Kennedy couldn't get in the bed fast enough, so that she could fall asleep before the tooth fairy came. I read Kennedy a story then she handed me the phone to make sure I called the tooth fairy. Well I was really tired you see, so I too fell asleep shortly thereafter. I woke up again at 11:30 p.m. to snatch the tooth and leave a couple of bucks. To my surprise I was fresh out of cash (I have a bad habit of never keeping cash on me, God bless the folks that invented debit cards)! So in my sleepy haze I came up with a grand scheme. I would write a note from the tooth fairy (you know, an IOU) and slip some cash under her pillow on the next night...

And yes that is a crinkled receipt from the kitchen counter!

Anyways, Kennedy woke up this morning and ran straight to me holding the receipt "mama what does this say?" So I read the note to her and she said "oh, ok!" I know, I know. I really should not play on the innocence of a child, but what would you have done in my position?

The funniest part happened later in the afternoon. We were on our way home from guitar practice when Kennedy out of no where says "mama, Trinity has visions!" So I said "What?" Then she said "Last night before I went to sleep Trinity told me the tooth fairy was broke, and she was!"

I wouldn't trade my kids in for anything in the world. And Trinity you better not tell!

Trinity's favorite book series

2008-10-01T11:38:00.002-04:00

Kennedy's favorite book

2008-10-01T11:36:00.001-04:00

Kids are so funny!

2008-09-30T18:04:00.002-04:00

So we were in borders the other day and Kennedy sees a book and says "Martin Luther Kings!" I look at the book and say " baby that's not Martin Luther King, that's Obama." Kennedy's eyes lit up and she starts chanting loudly "Orocka Obama, Orocka Obama!" Kids say the darndest things!

Lunch and play at Tom Brown

2008-09-25T19:09:00.000-04:00

Pics from the past week

2008-09-25T18:54:00.000-04:00

And the blog goes on .......

2008-09-25T18:08:00.000-04:00

OK, so the blog or shall I say the blogger has been out of commission. As most of you know I had a bad case of vertigo last week. It was horrible, but thank God I am much better. I did continue to school the girls (in a supine position in bed) despite my temporary condition. Trinity had her first test in Bible, English, word building, Florida state history, science, math, literature and creative writing, and social studies. Trinity did very well, she got six A's and two B's. Kennedy has had a stellar week as well. Kennedy finished her first addition and subtraction unit, and has read two new HOP books. I love the way her eyes light up when she realizes that she can read words on her own.
Trinity had her first volleyball scrimmage on 9/22/08. She was nervous but excited. The team lost pretty badly, but the girls had a blast. Their second game was on 9/24/08, and they won. I think all the girls wanted to win and it showed. Trinity hasn't quite mastered her serve yet, but she's working on it.
Kennedy had her first day of cheer dance. When she came out of the studio she was grinning from ear to ear. She also had her first day of gymnastics on 9/23/08, of course she is the tallest girl in the class. The other girls look like toddlers compared to her. Despite the size difference Kennedy had a good time in class and really enjoyed the rings and the uneven bars.

On 9/24/08 Tanashia and her girls Hannah and Sarah came by for arts and crafts day. The girls took on decorating their savings, charity and tithes jars. The jars turned out pretty nice. It was a good day and the girls enjoyed the fellowship.

So to end this really long blog, today we ate and played at the park, went to guitar lessons ( Trinity is getting really good) and went to get new books at Borders. We got our school work in and had lots of fun along the way!

Cheer dance and first Volleyball game

2008-09-23T11:44:00.000-04:00

2008-09-12T20:57:00.000-04:00

Let me just say, I love the freedom of homeschooling. For instance, today we did our lessons at home, in the car, and at daddy's job. The girls and I got a little burnt out being in the house today, so we decided to take our lessons with us. First we made a stop to the bank. One of the pics shows the girls and our good family friend Prudence. The girls always like to go in her office and give her the latest scoop. Their nickname for her is Mrs. Prudy Bean! So then we were off, well so we thought. Apparently someone started a rumor in Tallahassee that the gasoline trucks were not going to be able to bring any gas for the next few days, so you better get your gas now. Of course this rumor spread like a wild fire. Everybody and their mama were out trying to get gas. Over half of the stations in town were out of gas and the traffic was a mess! So we finally made it to Vince's job. Stayed there and chatted for a while then off to the post office. The girls got a quick lesson on addressing a letter, where to place the stamp, and where to mail it. After the post office we headed back to dad's job to meet for dinner. Today was a good day all in all. The girls completed their goals and I still have half my sanity. God is good!

2008-09-11T23:39:00.000-04:00

What a long day! The morning went by pretty quickly. The girls and I stuck to our usual morning routine, except I think Kennedy got a hold of my morning Java and was "off the chain!" I couldn't get the little child to sit still for nothing in the world. I finally tied her down( just kidding:) and got her to complete her lesson. Today she took on subtraction. She got the hang of it pretty quickly. Trinity was having a slow poke of a day. She kept getting distracted by the phone, the dog, and the pencil shavings. Once I told her she was not going to make it to guitar lessons at 3pm, she got on the ball. Mr. Hoge says that Trinity is catching on fast with the guitar. She has already mastered two songs. Trinity adores Mr. Hoge and brought him a piece of nana's banana spice cake! He loved it. After lessons we went out to eat. I know it's our second time this week but I haven't managed cooking in my schedule yet. Work with a sister! Well I'm off to retire for the evening. Good night!

Start of week 2

2008-09-09T22:38:00.000-04:00

Today was a decent day. We all started off the day well, ate breakfast, morning prayer and set goals for the day. Kennedy is doing really well with her math and reading. Today she read "Pig wig" with only one mistake. Kennedy likes to speed through her reading so that she can get straight to math. Her favorite is double digit addition so far. After Kennedy finished her math, writing and reading she loves getting on the computer and doing kindergarten computer games. Trinity is really starting to get the hang of staying focused and completing her days goals in a timely manner. Today it took her from 0930 to 1330 ( sorry about the military time, it's the nurse in me:) During that time she had two 15 minute breaks and a 20min lunch. After everyone's work was completed we went to Kennedy's ballet and tap class. Kennedy loves her teacher Miss Robyn, although she was a little disappointed when she didn't get a stamp for the second week in a row. Miss Robyn was out of stamps but promises the girls triple stamps on next week. From dance we went to see daddy at work and out for family dinner. Trinity ate without chewing so that we could hurry and head to her first volleyball practice. Now you must understand that Trinity has become quite the couch potato, so when she told me she wanted to play volleyball I rushed to register her. Vince and I met her coach, Coach Henry. He was nice, but serious about the game of "V ball.". Trin was a little shy and got off to a rough start, but recovered nicely. By the end of practice she was grinning from ear to ear talking about how she couldn't wait for Saturday's practice. Upon leaving practice we got word that my father in-law is in kidney failure and will need immediate dialysis. Please keep him in your prayers. Well let me go, we've got a full day ahead of us!

Pics from our first week

2008-09-07T23:06:00.001-04:00

First week of homeschool

2008-09-07T22:31:00.000-04:00

I finally listened to my calling from God to educate my children at home. I knew I wanted to do it,but I was afraid of failing my children. I now know that I am able and competent to give my children a proper education and rearing.
This week was our first week. I guess in my mind I had this great idea of how I thought the day's schedule would go. I figured we would wake up at 0800 (sorry that's the nurse in me:) eat breakfast, have morning devotional reading, pray, and start our days curriculum at 0900. Well tuesday went okay except the school work took a little more time than I had planned. Trinity's curriculum is primarliy self directed, which helps alot. I basically assist her in establishing her goals for the day then make sure that she has achieved them at the end of the day. Kennedy is doing the complete kindergarten hooked on phonics set. In this curriculum they suggest that the lessons be split in 20 minute mini lessons, now I know why. It is very hard getting a five year old to sit at a table for hours at a time. As the week progressed, Kennedy's lessons went from 2.5hrs to three 20min lessons. Yes I did achieve success this week. By the end of the week Trinity was finally getting used to the idea that she is responsible for how long it takes her to complete her assignments. She know that if she gets off task and works slowly, she will be at the table doing school work all day ( I'm talking 8hrs, wednesday...urgh!). Overall I don't feel defeated and I know that this is God's will. He hasn't failed me yet, so I'm not going to fail him with this! I continue to pray daily and thank God for this awesome opportunity.