The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In Our Homeschool This Week:  Still plugging along with our 8th grade Switched On Schoolhouse program.  We are behind but I'm not too worried except for the pre-algebra.  Dd takes her SAT's the last week of March and it seems we are always behind in that and her scores always reflect that.  Hubby is going to do some pre-algebra work with dd this weekend.

Places We're Going and People We're Seeing:  We've been homebodies the last few weeks and haven't done anything exciting.  Just the usual errand and shopping trips and the like.

My Favorite Thing This Week:  My nephew is living with us and is getting to items on our To-Do List.  We went yesterday and bought a new ceiling fan for the Master Bedroom with a remote!  I think he is going to install that today or tomorrow.  Also, he was able to figure out why our Beam vacuum system hasn't been working well.  Woot Woot!  That and a new belt will have my house cat hair free before we know it!  Seeing items checked off my To-Do List makes me very happy!

Things I'm Working On:  I have been cleaning and organzing my pantry this week.  It is fairly large and very deep.  I was able to purchase four large utility totes from the Thirty-One Outlet and so far have three of them filled.  Two with insulated totes, thermoses, lunch boxes and lunch packing containers and one with nothing by breakfast foods such as cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix and pancake syrup.  Not sure what I am going to use the fourth tote for. 

I'm Cooking:  Tonight I am making Cavatini and a Salad.  I'll probably make some sort of bread as well.  I am going to freeze a pan for a later meal.  I love having meals in my freezer!

I'm Praying For:  Safe travels for everyone in our area that are out and about today.  We are experiencing freezing rain as I type this and this could go on all day.  Hubby stayed home from work.  I am praying that our power stays on.

Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come back again!

Pam

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

In my life this week...well, it seems like forever since I've participated in this blog hop.  Holidays get very busy and enjoying your family time seems more important, right?  Hubby was sick for what seemed forever during December and this week my daughter is sick and coughing.  I still haven't taken down my Christmas tree in the kitchen and I've pretty much not done a whole lot of anything!  Yay me.  But the house looks horrible.  Time to get to those New Year's Resolutions!

In our homeschool this week... not much going on here with daughter being sick but I am going to have her do some assignments today.  Since we use SOS on our laptops I believe she will feel up to doing that today, even if it is in her bed!  During the holidays, hubby did get to do some algebra lessons with her.  I am so thankful for his math mind!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...we haven't been anywhere special of late.  Spent time with our parents during the holidays, shopping, church, etc.  Nothing on the horizon either.

Things I'm working on...well, today, it is laundry and KP duty!  Also, hubby has to pick up his car from the shop, so I will need to take him to get the car, and make a run to the grocery store.  Other than that, I do have some resolutions to work on.  Baby steps...

I'm cooking...I do love to cook, I hate doing dishes.  Oh vey!   Check out my menu that I post every Monday to see what's cooking at my house.  Sometimes I even post a recipe or two.

I'm grateful for... the love of my family, my cats, and my health, and lately YouTube and Pinterest :D.

Thank you for stopping by my humble abode.  I always love getting visitors.  Stay and look around if you have the time and leave a comment if you feel so led. 

Blessings,

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week...hubby is sick and is home for the third day.  He has a bad cough.  I don't think it is the flu.  Don'tcha just hate it when your husband is sick?

In our homeschool this week...daughter is just plugging along.  We are way behind in pre-algebra.  Ugh...

Places we're going and people we're seeing...we went to Dollywood Sunday afternoon and stayed until dark.  It was fun to ride the train around the property after dark and see all the Christmas lights.  I think this was probably our last trip of the year.

My favorite thing this week...our date night on Friday night.  We had a nice dinner at a favorite restaurant and got to see the new James Bond film, Skyfall.  Did I mention it was a double date with our favorite couple?  I haven't been on a date in so long.

Things I'm working on...I've been doubling quite a few meals and filling our basement freezer.  It feels good to have meals already prepared for those days when I don't feel up to cooking.

I'm grateful for...Christmas and the fact that we can still celebrate it in this country and share the true meaning of the season.

I'm praying for...friends with sick and/or dying loved ones.  My heart goes out to them.

Thanks for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come back again!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week...I was home bound this week.  Hubby had to take his car in for repair and they had to order a part and we get to pick the car up today.  He used mine all week for work and I was stuck at home.  But guess what?  I loved it.

In our homeschool this week...since we were studying about the American Revolution Tuesday afternoon, daughter and I decided to break out our DVD, The Patriot.  I hadn't seen it in awhile, forgot about how graphic it was, but enjoyed it all the same. 

I am inspired by...all the volunteers who are helping everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy.  What devastation!  I cannot imagine.

Places we're going and people we're seeing...it was just too cold and damp last weekend to attempt to go to Dollywood.  It is going to be warmer this weekend so we may try again tomorrow or Sunday after church.

I'm reading...Wikipedia.  I know!  It's just that I'll hear about a person in history or something, and I want to know more about that person and viola!  I read about him or her on Wiki.  Lately, due to the History channel's show on The Men Who Built America, I have been reading about Robber Barons.  Very interesting.  Really.

I'm grateful for...health insurance.  We basically went without for three years during hubby's unemployment and I am so so grateful to have it back.  This month I get to have my boobies squished and a gyno visit.  Yay me!

Thanks for stopping by.  Please come and visit me again.

Pam

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

It's been a few weeks since I have posted here.  Here is what's going on in my (our) life.

In my life this week:  We returned last night from a week in Williamsburg, VA. Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderful place for families, especially homeschooling families.  It is such an educational place.  We didn't do a whole lot as daughter has seen all that twice, and this was her third time there.  But we had a timeshare week to use up and we always enjoy Virginia.  The trees were so colorful and the weather was wonderful!

In our homeschool this week:  We did not homeschool this week except for daughter taking two quizzes today and doing 3 algebra lessons with her daddy.  She likes him as a math teacher.  What's that say about me?  But guess what?  She read three whole books while on vacation!  I'm so proud of her.

I am inspired by:  We met some of the nicest folks on our trip this week.  One older couple drove all the way from Montana to Williamsburg, VA.  He was in a scooter and she used a cane.  What an inspiration!

Places we're going and people we're seeing:  We aren't leaving the state this week!  I am taking the van back to my folks on Monday and we may go to Dollywood next weekend while the weather is so mild.

My favorite thing this week:  Vacation time with the family and having my hubby with us as he had seven days off from work.  He's working this weekend (two nights) and back to his training on Monday and a more normal schedule.

I'm grateful for family and friends this week. I'm afraid I take them all for granted way too often.  I need to be more intentional in my relationships.  I'm going to work on that.  How about you?

I'm praying for:  A dear friend of mine just found out her mother has six months to live.  She will be going to hospice care.  Her mom has been battling cancer for a while and I was so sad to hear this.  I am so grateful for my mother, who is a cancer survivor. 

Please some back and visit Second Star Academy at Chaos Cottage.   You're always welcome here!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week:   We left home on Thursday morning to drive to Florida with an overnight stop in Georgia Thursday night.  We stayed at a very nice Hampton Inn.  I don't think I have stayed at one  before.  Their free breakfast in the morning was fabulous.  They offered all sorts of healthy choices along with smoked sausage, scrambled eggs and potatoes, danish, English muffins and bagels, homemade waffles complete with waffle maker, boiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, milk, cereal, juice, coffee, teas, and I'm sure I'm leaving somethings off this list, but it was wonderful.  I would definitely pay the extra cost for a stay at a Hampton because of the breakfast.  It saves you time and money when you are heading on down the road.  Also, their check out time is noon!   Just the thing for us night owls :D

In our homeschool this week:  Daughter did some American history this week and studying for a quiz and test which we will do when we get home.  I love having the flexibility of homeschooling and that it allows for impromptu vacations!

Places we're going and people we're seeing:  Tomorrow we are going to drive up to Saint Augustine and look at some of the history of the town and the lighthouse.  But daughter is looking forward to visiting their outlet mall.  It is huge.  We drove by it on our way to Daytona and it is on both sides of the highway.  There is a Cosmetic Company Outlet there. We have heard about this on YouTube but don't have any in our area that I am aware of.  I am sure she or I will make a post about it for our Glamouriffic blog. Next week we are going to drive to Orlando and visit some favorite amusement parks.  One day I want to drive south of Daytona to the Ponce Inlet to see the lighthouse there.  Did I tell you I like lighthouses?  We were there when Robyn was a baby but now I want her to see it.

I'm reading:  I brought about 50 pounds of magazines with me.  No kidding.  I started getting a slew of magazines for free and I began saving them up for this trip.  I don't really take the time to read magazines at home often anyway.  After I read them and clip a coupon or two, my plan is to leave them for the maids.  That way I don't have to tow them home and they can enjoy them too.  Another good thing to do with old magazines is to take them to hospital waiting rooms.  I've done that before as well.  :D  I also brought my Kindle which is full of lots of good books to read.

I'm grateful for:  Aunt Pat invited us on this impromptu trip to Daytona.  She is so sweet!  We are having a fun time.  We had excellent weather driving down and I only got a bit anxious driving through Atlanta.  We timed it so we could miss rush hour, but oh my goodness it was still quite congested.

I'm praying for:  a friend whose husband is about to undergo very serious surgery soon.  She is stressed and I am praying for peace for her and guidance for the doctors in doing this surgery.  Also, praying for my Mother-In-Love who wanted to come with us on this trip, she loves the beach so much, but is under some pain and discomfort and is trying new meds to alleviate that and didn't feel she was up to the trip.  Get well Mama!

So sorry to be a day late getting this post up but we were on the road all day and then had to make a run to Wally World to get some vittles for the condo and I was absolutely too wiped out to post.  Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy at Chaos Cottage.

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week...I'm telling you, this week flew by for me.  It was so nice having hubby home for several days.  He goes back to work tonight for the next four nights.  It's a tough schedule but we are so grateful to God for giving him this job.  In my home we accomplished more work in the master bath and bedroom.  I'm really loving the new paint on the walls.  I love having a clean room to sleep in.  I need to work harder to make my bedroom a haven.  We didn't get to the garage project this time but we will get to it when we can.

In our homeschool this week...daughter is trying to work ahead in anticipation of our trip to Florida.  She gets easily distracted by other things she would rather be doing :/

I am inspired by...fall, my most favorite time of the year!  I have the windows open in our bedroom all day and night and am enjoying the cooler temperatures!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...leaving on Thursday next week to drive to Florida with my MIL and Aunt.  We are going to stop about halfway to spend the night somewhere.  It's too long of a drive on my old back.  My doctor suggests we stop every two hours to stretch and walk a bit.  I think that will be good advice.

My favorite thing this week was...the beautiful weather we are having :)

Things I'm working on...I'm always working on being more organized, having less clutter and a more simple life.  (easier said than done)  Enjoying each day that the Lord has given us.

I'm cooking...made delicious taco soup last night.  I love it.  It is especially good in the fall and winter.

I'm thankful for...God's blessings on my life :)

I'm praying for...friends of ours in Ethiopia who are adopting the cutest little boy ever.  They have hoops to jump through before bringing him home and praying all goes as God plans.

Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  I hope you have a fantastic weekend and week with your loved ones.

Pam

Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week...enjoying having my nephew here again.  He is a very good painter and I am enjoying my newly painted bedroom and bath.  Oh, and did I mention the closet?  He emptied it and painted it too.  It all looks so nice.  This week he is also working next door removing stucco off a neighbor's house and putting up siding.  He's a talented guy!

In our homeschool this week...we did school a few days and then Robyn went to her grandmother's for a visit.  That's the nice thing about homeschooling.  We couldn't do this when we feel like it in regular school.  Since she is going back to her Christian school for high school next year, she is taking advantage of this perk while she can :)

I am inspired by...love.  "...but the greatest of these is love."  (I Cor. 13:13)

Places we're going and people we're seeing...just visiting our parents and sticking around home.  Hubby is off for seven days starting today (crazy work schedule) and we are going to do some work in the garage.  It's so piled up we can't get our cars in there.  :(

My favorite thing this week was...starting a beauty blog with my 13 year old.  It's so much fun sharing our love of makeup and all things girly  :)

Things I'm working on...getting my bedroom and bathroom all clean and decorated now that the painting is done.  Going through clothes, shoes, handbags, and donating unwanted things, decluttering and just making the master bedroom look pretty :)

I'm cooking...with my nephew here there's another man to feed, so I am making more filling, manly meals.  He is working so hard I feel like I have to feed him well enough to keep his strength up.  lol

I am thankful for...family.

I'm praying for...family.

Thank you so much for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come and visit again and leave a comment telling me you were here.

Pam

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

Happy Friday everyone.  I haven't participated in this blog hop for awhile and thought I would today.

In my life this week...my nephew is visiting with us and doing some odd jobs around the house.  I am most excited about my master bathroom and bedroom.  They are getting painted the nicest light blue you ever did see.  With my tannish tile my bathroom looks like the beach!

In our homeschool this week...just plugging along with our Switched on Schoolhouse curriculum.  It's 8th grade and starting to get more difficult. So glad I married a smart man!

Places we're going and people we're seeing...went to my mother-in-love's on Labor day for delicious hotdogs.  Robyn and I did some shopping this week but mainly we are working on projects here at home.

Things I'm working on...my daughter and I are starting a mother and daughter blog where we talk about makeup, nail polish, fashion and mainly girly stuff.  I thought it would be neat to have a younger and um, err, older perspective on these.  What do you think?

I'm cooking...see my menu posted every Monday and my occasional new recipe.

I'm grateful for...God's blessings on me and my family and the gorgeous weather we are experiencing.  I can't wait for the changing of the leaves, my favorite time of year.

I'm praying for...my husband to stay safe at work and driving to and from.  For our homeschool year (our last, as daughter will be returning to her Christian school for high school) to be successful.  

Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come and visit again soon.

Pam

A little update.

I know I haven't been posting much.  Seems like my days are so busy with schooling my daughter and chores, and an occasional nap, that I don't take time to tend to my blog as much as I should or want to.  I do well to get my weekly menu on here.  It is more a reminder for me than anything.  I have some ideas I'd like to blog about in the future if I could just get around to it :/

I am still dealing with insomnia.  I have a hard time falling asleep.  I use Melatonin on most nights and it usually helps me nod off but I find myself waking up two to three hours later and I go downstairs for a few more hours and then feel sleepy enough to get back into bed.  Then I wake up later in the morning than I would like and that seems to throw my whole schedule/plan for the day off.  Seems like I just get through school with my daughter and then it is time to fix dinner and then it is dinner clean-up, some family time, and then time to prepare for bed and then the whole thing starts all over again.  I do well to keep groceries in the house and the laundry done.  Those are both important and I am normally able to keep those up.  Unfortunately, my housework and projects have fallen to the wayside. 

So, I am going to make myself work a certain amount of time a day on my household chores and projects, even if it is only 15 to 30 minutes a day, because it will add up, and I will see progress.  Slow and steady...

Tomorrow (actually today, as it is 3:55 a.m. EST) I am going to do laundry while schooling and then my plan is to give the kitchen a good going over.  Then I am going to get my daughter's help in picking up the house and helping me do the vacuuming.  She is very good at vacuuming the stairs!  Then it will be time to begin dinner prep, but I figure it is a good start and then Friday we will plan on no school and giving the house much more needed attention, especially her bedroom and bathroom as she has a friend coming over to stay the night.  Nothing like company coming to get your house clean!  LOL

So, I think I'll head back upstairs and see if I can go to the land of Nod once again.  Funny thing is that my hubby will be getting up in 30 minutes to get ready to leave for work.  We're like two ships passing in the night! 

Pam

The Homeschool Mother's Journal

In my life this week:  I've been lazy.  :(  Yep.  I'm guilty.  We went to see the movie, Brave, Sunday evening and I haven't been anywhere since.  I'm a bit of a house cat!  It's really been so hot out I didn't want and don't want to go anywhere!

Places we're going, people we're seeing:  My husband, daughter, and mother-in-law are leaving tomorrow for Ireland.  Yes, you read that right.  Ireland.  I'm not going.  I'm staying home to take care of the house and cats.  I'm not in the best of health for a trip like that.  Maybe one day when my old knees and back are better :)  I'll enjoy the photos and putting together their scrapbook afterwards.

My favorite thing this week was:  Finishing school!  Better late than never!  Whew.  We saved math for last and it was good to be done. 

Things I'm working on:  My family will be gone Saturday night through Thursday night.  I plan on getting some chores done around the house while they are gone.  No excuses.  Hopefully next week I can report the things I actually got done.

I'm praying for:  A safe trip for my family.  A fun time for them and many wonderful memories to last a lifetime.

I'm grateful for:  My MIL graciously taking my family to Ireland.  What a gift!

Have a great week and thanks for stopping by Second Star Academy!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week:  I have had another busy week of trying to finish up our homeschooling year.  All that is left is a Language Arts Review and daughter is about a third of the way through that, Bible and she should be finishing that up today or this weekend, and the dreaded Mathematics.  Ugh.  Hoping it will all be finished next week. I can't seem to get much of anything else done while I'm trying to race to the homeschool finish line.  I did get some makeup organization done in my bathroom and tossed some old products.  I'm in the process of giving the fridge a thorough cleaning.  I have two more shelves to go and the shelves on the door.  I am covering the shelves in Press and Seal to make cleaning them in the future much easier.  I got this idea from Pinterest.  Robyn and I went to the dollar theater (we call it that because Tuesday nights used to be $1) on Tuesday night and saw Journey 2 The Mysterious Island.  It was good.

In our homeschool this week:  See above.

Places we're going:  We are going up to my mom and dad's Saturday and celebrate Father's Day.  On Sunday we are going to a restaurant to celebrate Father's Day with my hubby! 

I'm cooking:  I'm making a banana pudding tonight to take to my dad tomorrow.

I'm reading:  I read book two of the Hunger Games and am now into book three.

Things I'm working on:  In my mind, I am making plans to declutter and organize some things while my family is gone to Ireland.  Until school is finished, it is very hard for me to begin any projects around the house.  But I can dream.

I'm grateful for:  my husband.  He is a wonderful man.  He loves me unconditionally.  God blessed me when he gave me Robert.

I'm praying for:  continued good test results for my husband at work, uninterrupted sleep for me, the strength to get through this school year, and the motivation to do some projects around the house.

Thanks for stopping by.  Come visit again!

Pam at Second Star Academy

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week:  I'm having a hard time doing anything but racing to the homeschool year finish line.  I just want to get finished and have a nice long summer break.  Does that sound bad?  We always start out the school year lazily and then with vacations and breaks here and there, we find ourselves too far behind and the last few months of our school year are always a mad dash.  Next year I want to do it right.  It may be my last year homeschooling, as Robyn may be returning to the Christian school she attended through fifth grade for high school.  We'll see.  Anyway, I have lots of ideas and plans for when school is over but I don't want to start anything until we are finished with school.  That's just me.  So, stay tuned to see what I get into this summer.

In our homeschool this week:  Ditto above.  Working our butts off trying to finish.  As a reward, today, it is 12:30 and we still have yet to start school, but we are going to go to our local bookstore, for a change of scenery, and do our lessons there.  I have already printed off the lessons from our SOS and we are going to spend the afternoon in the cafe and enjoy a nice refreshing beverage.  I can peruse the bookshelves while daughter does her work!  Sounds like fun.  We are done with Science and will be finishing up History tomorrow.  The end is in sight!

Places we're going and people we're seeing:  After being gone two weeks in May, it is nice to be back home.  I don't plan on anymore trips until November, but daughter and hubby are going to Ireland in July.  When we finish our school year, I may do some nice one day excursions with daughter.  When it gets too hot, we don't go to Dollywood, so we may not be there for a while.

My favorite thing this week:  On Monday, Memorial Day, we ate dinner at Calhoun's on the river and it was so nice to eat out at a nice restaurant and visit with family.  Afterwards, we walked down to the river bank and watched the geese and fish fighting over food being tossed to them.  It was fun.

I'm reading:  Did I tell you I read the first book in the Hunger Games series?  I was on the fence about this one, as the subject matter seemed kinda icky to me, but decided to read the first one to make up my mind.  Hubby put it on my Kindle and I have to say I really liked it.  I read it very quickly.  But it is a quick read.  Daughter took my Kindle from me on our last week out of town and she read it very quickly as well and we are both looking forward to the next two installments.  So yay me and daughter for finishing a book.

I'm cooking:  Well, last night, I made a lovely dinner of Chicken Enchiladas and Refried Beans, and I think they were just as good as any we would get in a restaurant.  I just love Mexican food.  Tonight it is Italian as I am making Lasagna Rolls and making a pan for the freezer as well.  I enjoy cooking, just not the cleaning up.  LOL

I'm grateful for:  Yesterday my hubby went whitewater rafting as a team building exercise for work, and he fell out of the boat and was pulled back in.  Well, actually, the boat was filled with so much water, that he floated out, but anyway, I am grateful he wasn't hurt and he got home safe.

I'm praying for:  A friend who's father just received a very bad cancer diagnosis, but his continued good mood and improved health, enough so that he is leaving on vacation with them to Florida.  It will be good for them all and a nice memory.  I'm praying for my family members as we lost my Aunt Dot this week.  She has been in bad health and in a nursing home for some time.  She has gone on to glory and for this we can rejoice.

A photo:

Thank you for stopping by Second Star Academy.  Please come back again!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

Okay another week has flown by.  Here's what's happening in my life:

In my life this week:  Got home Saturday from a week in Gatlinburg.  My 13 year old wore me out.  Must remember to take vitamins EVERY day!  We had a lot of fun.  Came home to unpack bags and do laundry a few times and guess what?  Leaving again this evening for another week in another resort.  Not Gatlinburg this time, but maybe we'll have a more restful week this time.

In our homeschool this week:  Still trying to run for that finish line.  Seems we get ahead one day and behind the next.  We'll get there slowly but surely.

I am inspired by:  My parents recently celebrated an anniversary of 60 years together!  What an amazing feat.  Those two have fought like I don't know what their married life.  I guess you fight for what you believe in!  LOL  Loving my folks more and more every day and how my dad takes care of my mom.  Love you guys!  You are amazing!

Places we're going and people we are seeing:  Been to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Seiverville area.  Heading out again in a westwardly direction.  Hoping to drive to the Mennonite community and do a little eating and shopping while out that way.  Mainly just going to relax and do more schooling.

My favorite things this week:  Celebrating Mother's Day with my mom and my mil.  It's always good to spend time with family and I have truly been blessed with the best!

I'm reading:  Still reading A Confident Heart by Renee Swope on my Kindle (a Mother's Day gift from hubby) and last night he put the first book in the Hunger Games series on there for me.  I started on the first chapter.  It's simply written and easy to read.  Thought I would read it and decide if I want to read the series. I hear good and bad about them.  I felt the same way about Harry Potter (which so far, I believe were better written), and I started the HP books and just haven't had a chance to get back to them. Oh, when this school year is over I have BIG plans.  I want to read!  I want to set a better example for my daughter.

I'm cooking:  I veered from my plan today and have Ranch Chicken baking in the oven.  Just boneless chicken breasts, bottled Ranch dressing and plain bread crumbs.  It is smelling delicious!

I'm grateful for:  better health.  I'm feeling more energized and less lethargic.  Maybe it's keeping up with my 13 year old that helps.  I don't know.  I have become better at taking my vitamins and I know they are essential to my good health.  Now, if I could only fit in some exercise.  I do believe I have arthritis and until I go to the doctor for a check-up I won't know for sure but at my last visit he said I probably did.  I told the doc that when our insurance kicked in I'd come in for a thorough check-up.  I've been putting it off and trying to take off a few pounds first.  Otherwise, besides Old Arthur, I'd say I'm doing much better.  Sleeping much better too.  So I guess I would say I'm grateful for my returning health.

I'm praying for:  continued good grades for husband (94 today!), and his safety to, at, and from work.  A timely finish to our school year, and friends who are leaving very soon to Asia for a mission trip.

Thanks for visiting Second Star Academy.  Please come back again!

Pam

Homeschooling Mother's Journal

• In my life this week…has been spent in our time-share condo in Gatlinburg.  Hubby came with us and spent one night and then returned home because he has to work.  Daughter and I have been having a fun week together with a little school thrown in for good measure!
• In our homeschool this week…we did quite a bit of school in-between having fun in Pigeon Forge and vacationing in Gatlinburg. 
• Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…it's awesome to be able to take school on the road.  We use SOS and it is on our laptops and it makes homeschooling very easy at home or away from home.
• I am inspired by…the beautiful mild weather we have been having.  Made our day at Dollywood wonderful.
• Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…we've been shopping, visited our favorite bookstore in Pigeon Forge, saw the Avengers on Tuesday, have gone to Dollywood, and are going to see the new Dark Shadows movie today and eat dinner out on our last night here.  We were joined at Dollywood by my MIL and her friend and we all had a blast together.
• My favorite thing this week was…probably Dollywood followed by playing with our new nail polishes and make-up.
• I’m reading…hubby bought me a Kindle for Mother's Day.  I got it early and haven't tried it yet.  I can't wait.  I'm hoping I will read more now.  I know I can get books from the library for free to put on it.
• I’m cooking…at our condo we have eaten quite a lot of meals, because I don't like eating out that much, except we did get some yummy chicken from Chick-Fila one day after a tiring day of shopping.  And the food at Dollywood is out of this world!
• I’m grateful for…my week with my daughter.  We've had a lot of fun together.
• I’m praying for…continuing good grades for my husband on his tests at work, daughter and I to eat healthier and to exercise and the ability to finish school in a timely manner so we can enjoy the summer off.  And friends who are leaving in a few weeks for a mission trip to Asia.
• A photo, video, link, or quote to share…

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week…I haven't left the house since Saturday.  Went to my MIL's on Saturday for a birthday bash for my daughter who turned 13!  Yikes, a teenager in the house.  We brought home some lovely leftovers from that party to eat all week. 

In our homeschool this week…we accomplished quite a bit of work this week, enough to give Robyn the day off today to go to her Grand Mama's.  Mama is going to teach her how to plant flowers. They are at the nursery right now buying lots of plants.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…like I said, my MIL's last Saturday but otherwise I haven't left the house. Robyn did her usual "Robyn day" on Monday with her Grand Mama and Great Aunt and she is with her Grand Mama today and tomorrow.  "Robyn day" is a day out that includes a meal among other things with her Grand Mama and Aunt. Last night was our last Thursday watching a young boy while his father is in class.  It's always  a fun time for Robyn when he is here as they like to play the Wii together.

My favorite thing this week was…Rockin' Robyn's birthday party and seeing some family members I haven't seen in a while.  The food and fellowship were great.

Things I’m working on…I must remember to remind daughter to write some thank you cards for her birthday gifts.  I must get to the grocery store.  I hate going to the grocery store.  Ugh...I have my list and coupons all ready.  I just need to get up the motivation to go.  Hmm...maybe a cup of ambition would help.

I’m reading…same stuff.

I’m cooking…check out my menu every Monday to see what I'm feeding my family and occasional recipes.

I’m grateful for…God's blessings on my family.

I’m praying for…my husband to continue to get good scores on his tests at work, a good week of homeschooling next week so we can have a lighter following week while in Gatlinburg and for my insomnia to just go away!  Any helpful hints for nights when you can't sleep would be appreciated.

Thank you for visiting Second Star Academy at Chaos Cottage.  Please come back again and leave a message letting me know you were here.  Have a terrific weekend!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week…I have been making plans and not following through. Well, what else is new? Hey, that's just life. I have enjoyed my week teaching my daughter and spending time with her. I just haven't done too much on my To Do List.

In our homeschool this week…we are nearing the end of our school year. I think we will finish up pretty much on time except for possibly math. We both are looking forward to our summer break :)

I am inspired by…my daughter's maturity and ability to help me with things I need her help with. Ninety percent of the time she helps me with no complaints. That is a blessing to me.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…Robyn left yesterday to spend a few days with her Grand Mama. Today is Robyn's 13th birthday! Oh my! Tomorrow we are picking up her bestie and going to Mama's to celebrate with a Rockin' Robyn birthday party. It will be a fun day.

My favorite thing this week was…spending time with my bestie, my hubby!

Things I’m working on…same stuff-different week :)

I’m reading…I have several books in progress but haven't done any reading this week.

I’m cooking…check back on Mondays to see my menu for the week.

I’m grateful for…the daughter the Lord gave me at 12:21 P.M exactly 13 years ago today! She is a joy and a loving daughter.

I’m praying for…my husband's continuing good grades at work in his training program, continued employment there, safe travels to and from work for him and for him to continue to adapt to this new vocation the Lord has given him.

Thank you for stopping by Chaos Cottage and Second Star Academy. Leave me a note saying you were here and stop by again!

Pam

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week…late getting this posted this week. Couldn't find time on Friday to post this.

In our homeschool this week…enjoying homeschooling my daughter and relearning things I had forgotten.

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…relax.

I am inspired by…gorgeous weather we are having. A couple of nights it got really cold though and am glad I haven't bought my annuals yet.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…Friday daughter and I went to Hobby Lobby, which has now become her favorite store. Also, Friday night, we all went to see Tim Hawkins perform. He was fabulous. If you aren't familiar with him, check him out of Youtube. He is hilarious!

My favorite thing this week was…Tim Hawkins. What can I say? I think I split my side!

What’s working/not working for us…sticking to a schedule. But everyday is a do-over! LOL

Things I’m working on…thinking about starting a sourdough starter for bread and maybe even Amish Friendship bread. It's been years since I've done this and I'm thinking of doing it again.

I’m reading…same stuff.

I’m cooking…check out my Monday menus.

I’m grateful for…my Lord and Savior, my family, my pets. I'm blessed.

I’m praying for…my hubby to continue to do well on his tests at work, for energy to do the things I need to do, and for some friends who just sold their home and need to get everything approved for moving into their new dream home.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share… my daughter's rough draft of her sketch of Rapunzel from Tangled.

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week: Robyn and I volunteered to serve the seniors lunch at church on Monday. We always enjoy that and eating a lovely lunch with them too. I want Robyn to want to serve others and build a strong work ethic. Many of the seniors comment on how pleased they are to see children working there. Sometimes, there are other homeschool children there volunteering.

In our homeschool this week: This week we didn't get any schooling as we volunteered at church on Monday morning and Robyn had the afternoon with her Grandmama and Great Aunt. On Tuesday I took her to her other grandparents to spend time through Friday. Today, I go and get her and we do plan on doing some schooling tonight and through the weekend. We are a little behind but I'm not worried. I know we will get it done. I don't stress about it. Robyn and I really enjoy homeschooling and that makes my heart glad.

I am inspired by: my daughter's personality and sense of humor. She is so much fun to be around and is the joy of my life. She has also shown quite the talent for drawing and for photography lately. My little one is growing up :)

Places we are going and people we are seeing: Last Saturday, Robyn went to Dollywood again, this time with her dad. They had a good time. I don't know if we will get back over there this month, we might try at least once. But the first week of May we plan on going several times, as we will be staying at our condo in Gatlinburg that week. I enjoy Dollywood in the spring. It gets terribly hot in the summer, and I just can't handle it then. Monday, after volunteering at church, we went to our favorite bookstore to hang out for a while. Robyn's grandmama and great aunt came there to get her and take her to dinner. Robyn spent three nights at my folks this week getting in a good visit with them.

My favorite thing this week: Getting several nights of good sleep were the highlight of my week. How sad is that? But really, being able to sleep through the night is a God send for me. Insomnia is nothing to joke about. It's harder when you get older. We need our sleep. It is so important for us physically as well as emotionally.

Things I'm working on: Still getting the house in order and staying on top of things. Tuesday we had some lawn guys come and they trimmed hedges, cleaned up and mulched beds, got all the leaves out of the backyard and it looks so good now. I hope to get some flowers bought and planted tomorrow. It's springtime and our yard was really looking scruffy. It looks so much more manicured now. That makes me happy :) I've also been doing a little planning ahead. I have been perusing menus and planning ahead meals and planning ahead our homeschooling work so I don't have to think about that for a while. I am hoping to tackle my craft room soon. It is a disaster and has become quite the catch-all room for a while. I may not get to that until next week.

I'm reading: I downloaded a free book called A Confident Heart by Renee Swope and have begun reading that. I met Renee at a women's retreat and am familiar with her as well as her blog. I was happy to see I could get it from Amazon for free. I read my Bible at night before retiring, and have gotten a little behind in my plan and am trying to catch up. I also got a free book in the mail this week called No Longer a Slumdog (Bringing hope to children in crisis) by K.P. Yohannan and I'm looking forward to reading it. The foreword is by Francis Chan and I enjoy his writings and find him very challenging. I hope it is good and inspiring.

I'm cooking: I made a good blueberry bread this week. I had and still have frozen blueberries in the freezer and the bread turned out pretty good if I do say so myself. You can always check my menu post on Mondays to see what I am feeding my family.

I'm grateful for: so much that I have been given. God has blessed us more than we deserve. I am thankful for our church and look forward to worshiping our Lord this Easter Sunday.

I'm praying for: some contractors where my husband works who may be losing their jobs. There seems to be some cutting back going on already where my husband went to work in January. So, I am keeping his position in prayer as well. I'm praying my my Mother-In-Love to find some answers to some things that she has on her mind lately and to get closure in that area, and for her to have improved health. She is taking my husband and daughter to Ireland in July and I want her to be at her best so that she can enjoy that trip to the fullest!

Thank so much for stopping by my little humble blog. Please come back again.

The Homeschooling Mother's Journal

In my life this week…Today we are at Dollywood. I wrote this post yesterday. This week, we were up early three mornings due to SAT testing. Had to go to bed early as well. Fortunately, I slept pretty well and even got a nap in here and there. I would love to do this every day. I get so much more accomplished when I get my day started early. I think I even sleep better if I can get to sleep at a decent hour. My knees and back have been giving me grief and I may very well be in one of those motorized scooters at Dollywood today. Yep, I'm getting old.

In our homeschool this week…we had SAT's three morning this week at our umbrella school. So I gave daughter those days off from her homeschooling. It is Thursday as I write this and we are doing quizzes and a couple lessons in Language Arts. Friday (today) we have off because we are going to the sneak peek at Dollywood. We will probably do school on Saturday though. I love the flexibility of homeschooling.

I am inspired by…warm temps. It was almost 85 on the last day of winter here. Very strange but nice.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…Dollywood!

My favorite thing this week was…spending time with family on Saturday and celebrating St. Pat's day. It was a memory in the making.

Things I’m working on…same ole same ole.

I’m reading…nothing. Boring, I know.

I’m cooking…yummy stuff. Trying a new recipe with Potatoes O'Brien in it. That would have been good on St. Pat's day too.

I’m grateful for…my husband's job and his gifted brain that the Lord has given him. He has really stepped out of his comfort zone into this new job and is learning new things every day! Also, I am amazed at my daughter's computer and photography skills which she obviously got from her daddy. She amazes me!

I’m praying for…a cousin who has desperately been trying to get disability for years and keeps getting turned down, friends who are have problems in their marriage, that my husband has the energy to not only spend long days at work but energy to get the things done around here to get our house market ready. Yes, we still want to sell the house.

Thank you for visiting my blog. Please come back again. Have a terrific weekend.