Excelsior Academy

~ Happy New Year ~

2011-01-01T06:40:00.002-06:00

May you fulfill all your dreams, goals and purpose this coming year and that it is filled w/the love, joy, peace and happiness you so richly deserve.

Be blessed!

Progress is exceedingly slow

2009-06-22T12:13:00.001-05:00

Due to much stress and everyone working, my lovely school plan has not yet manifested. We did start the work but have failed to finish. I'm not sure exactly what I will be doing about this especially since it affects everything and everybody. I'm praying about how to proceed so that all things are covered.

Riley didn't graduate and we didn't go to the homeschool convention in Va. We did get to go to the Charlotte Mason Conference in NC, that was very good for us. I'm recharged and energized which is definitely needed right now. I'm hoping to get her all finished up before Christmas and have her take the ACT & SAT so if she decides to go to school in January she'll be ready but I'm thinking she'll have to wait til next fall.

We all work in retail and have been hit hard financially. There have been little to no hours which is hard when you are trying to payoff some bills and maintain. I've recently taken on another part-time job and am considering leaving the retail job but will probably stay through the holidays. My new job is at the library and will allow me to homeschool in peace and completeness. Something that I believe we desperately need at the moment. I start today and I'm looking forward to it.

I'm going to go and complete the 3 things on my to do list. More later ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!

Progress for today

2009-03-27T23:37:00.001-05:00

Today was quiet ~ no school. Da Boy decided we needed to start on Monday so we will. I'm not sure who made him the boss but whatever works. I did manage go to the library and print off math sheets and order our books. Yeah me! We will be able to get started on Sunday actually with our devotional. Still prayerfully considering which book to use though I'm leaning toward finishing up Mere Christianity.

Thats all for now ~ more when we get started next week and the books come in.

Spring is here

2009-03-25T21:39:00.003-05:00

I've finally got my groove back and am excited about getting back to the books. I spent yesterday and most of this morning getting our schedule and booklist locked down. I'm pleased to say ~ its done. I'm looking forward to learning alongside the kiddos and to spend time reading/researching CM more since I've let it fall by the wayside. I've tried to be more diligent and now I've actually put it in my weekly schedule to make sure I do it. ;)

Here is our schedule ~ its simple yet very effective for us especially with me working full-time. I've also listed the daily plan below it and the booklist.

Sun – Bible Devotions
Mon – Home Eco, Health, Computer & English
Tue – History & Math
Wed – Arts: Art, Music, Poetry, Bible, Shakespeare & Plutarch
Thu – Science & Math
Fri – English & Math

Lessons and review in the mornings (7:30a-10:30a); Composition, free reading, drill, copywork and recitation in the afternoons (12:30p-2:30p).

Current Booklist
Math ~ MEP Yr 5 & 6
Grammar ~ Grammar Smart Junior & Grammar Smart Perfect
Literature ~ Ivanhoe, Scarlet Pimpernel, The Good Earth, The Great Divorce
History ~ Romans & Birth of Britain
Science ~ Earth Science
Poetry ~ Alfred Lord Tennyson & Keats
Bible ~ Strong's Concordance, Ephesians, Proverbs & Psalms
Art ~ Botticelli & Friedrich
Music ~ Liszt & Mahler
Shakespeare ~ Love's Labor Lost
Plutarch ~ Titus Flamininus
Computer ~ Mavis Beacon 9

Extras
Health ~ weight training, walking, skating
Life Skills ~ CPR, cooking, gardening
Hobbies ~ knitting, woodworking
Videos ~ Standard Deviants
Skill Bldg ~ Where in the World Carmen Sandiego, Crossword puzzles

'09 Schedule
Sun
8:30a ~ Devotions
~ write journal entry

Mon
7:30a ~ Bible Reading
8a ~ Home Eco
9:30a ~ Health - Computer
10a ~ Computer - Health
10:30a – 12:30p ~ free time/lunch/rest
12:30p ~ Recitation
1p ~ Copywork
1:15p ~ Literature
2p ~ Home Eco

Tue
7:30a ~ Bible Reading
8a ~ Bible Study
8:45a ~ break
9a ~ Bible Study cont'd
9:45a ~ break
10a ~ Shakespeare
10:30a – 12:30p ~ free time/lunch/rest
12:30p ~ Plutarch
1p ~ Art & Music

Wed
7:30a ~ Bible Reading
8a ~ Math – History
8:45a ~ break
9a ~ History – Math
9:45a ~ break
10a ~ Narrations
10:30a – 12:30p ~ free time/lunch/rest
12:30p ~ Recitation
1p ~ Math Assignment
1:45p ~ Reading/Narrations

Thu
7:30a ~ Bible Reading
8a ~ Math – Science
8:45a ~ break
9a ~ Science – Math
9:45a ~ break
10a ~ Narrations
10:30a – 12:30p ~ free time/lunch/rest
12:30p ~ Recitation
1p ~ Math Assignment
1:45p ~ Reading/Narrations

Fri
7:30a ~ Bible Reading
8a ~ Math - Grammar
8:45a ~ break
9a ~ Grammar - Math
9:45a ~ break
10a ~ Narrations
10:30a – 12:30p ~ free time/lunch/rest
12:30p ~ Recitation
1p ~ Math Assignment
1:45p ~ Reading/Narrations

~ Merry Christmas ~

2008-12-25T00:08:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Progress Day #3

2008-12-08T20:11:00.001-06:00

Wow three days of doing school ~ yipee! It did feel good to get organized today and find my balance. I also enjoyed teaching the lessons and getting the results expected. Still tweaking the schedule and must find all our books but for now its good. I think Riley & Da Boy enjoyed their lessons too.

Tomorrow they will work on their assignments based on today's lessons. I'm working out how often I'll be able to do lessons so we covered 3 today and I assigned reinforcement work. Their reading is challenging and I hope they enjoy it. I've added recitation to their schedule and plan to do art/music/history on friday most via the musuem. Yeah looking forward to a field trip this week. Gotta go now, more later.

Til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Teaching v Assigning *updated

2008-12-06T22:34:00.001-06:00

This an interesting topic and one I've been studying for sometime. I find that I've fallen into the assigning side of homeschooling and it isn't what I want or helpful to our goals. It isn't CM either. I received my Winter issue of the OCHEC Informer and this is the title of one of the articles. It was a confirmation and eye-opener to what I've been sensing in my heart. I'm not done reading and ponding but I'm ready to make the change back to teaching ~ it is more fulfilling and rewarding. I'll share more when I'm done.

*So I've now finished the article but it didn't reveal anything on the subject directly. I did enjoy the last part which the definition of teaches & understanding from the Strong's Concordance. Outside of that the article made no sense to me. Hmm...I'm not sure what the main point is but I'll read it again tomorrow and see if I can decifer it and if not will prolly email the writer for clarity or write my own article. More on this topic later.

Progress Day #1

2008-12-04T22:38:00.001-06:00

We managed to get some subjects in today ~ woohoo! The plan was to do the bare minimal and we succeeded. We completed the following:
English
~ reading & writing
History
~ Old Testament (Ps/Prov)
Bible
~ same as history & copywork
Math
~ 2 lessons

The plan is to consistently accomplish something then gradually add in the rest. This past Mon we went to the OK History Center, I'd been trying to go for 2yrs since they re-opened. We had a great time and the weather was wonderful. We have even planned our next field trip and return visit ;).

Well, off to enjoy my quiet evening of reading.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!

Schools in session

2008-10-28T12:43:00.001-05:00

Well I'm working on it. Wow we've been off for awhile and its been a long time since I've blogged. Still no progress on school though its on my mind. I've been working on grad requirements, booklists and finding books. We moved at the end of September while working the fair and everything is in boxes. I have boxes labeled but what I need was packed by dh and I can't find it. LOL

I'm spending time in prayer about this school year so I focus on what's important. I feel like I've been going in circles and there is no progress. We need peace and progress, living outta boxes doesn't help. We'll manage, its been worse. ;)

Well better get back to work. Have an awesome day!

~ Week 4: Summer School ~

2008-07-06T13:36:00.002-05:00

its suppose to be Wk4 of summer school but I must confess ~ "we haven't started." The kiddos have been getting out more, I've been working more and its just not happened. I don't really have an explanation for it, its just not the right time for us I guess. I do plan to pick up soon though b/c I want the Da Boy to finish up his Pre-Yr 7 stuff and move on. Riley, along with some friends, has started a Jane Austen Book Club, and she's reading everyday now ~ so not too worried about her. Summer school was to focus on reading and math along with getting better at some of the basic methods of CM (narration, dictation, recitation) but I'm confident it will happen.

August is looming around the corner which means we all will be getting back to work for the fair and that will put our school plans off too; one of the reasons I was doing a 6wk summer plan. I'm thinking God has a better plan and I will just enjoy the moment. I will implement a simple plan of reading with lots of narration and great discussions on the side.

Here is our pending booklist:
~ Group ~
Mere Christianity
Plutarch ~ AO 07-08 Term 3 selection
Poetry
Shakespeare ~ AO 07-08 Term 3 selection

~ Da Boy ~
Story of the Greeks
Story of the Romans *to be finished
It Couldn't Just Happen
Kon Tiki
Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea
The Bronze Bow
The Cricket on the Hearth
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

~ Riley ~
Story of the Greeks *to be finished
Never Give In
The Sea Around Us
The Cricket on the Hearth
Jack and Jill *to be finished
More than a Carpenter
Little Men

This should be doable over the next few weeks or so. I'll update as we finish them.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

~ Vol 1 Study Questions ~

2008-06-30T15:17:00.001-05:00

This week's study is on Part 1 p1-10 and the following are the questions we are ponding. ;)

1. What questions does Pestalozzi put to mothers?
2. What is Mr Herbert Spencer's argument for the study of education?
3. What is the strenuous part of a parent's work?

~ Vol 6 Study ~ Education is a life!

2008-06-30T15:12:00.004-05:00

This week we are reading p104 - 111 which discusses Education is a life. I've put the following questions up for pondering and will work on my own answers later this evening. Enjoy!

1. Tell what education is a life means to you

2. Explain how ideas are different from facts

3. In discussing the needs of education is a life, explain how you would provide for these needs

4. What is meant by "The mind feeds on ideas and therefore, children should have a generous curriculum?"

The Patient Gardener

2008-06-30T06:08:00.005-05:00

Children, too, are living organisms who will grow on their own time table. Yes, there are things you can do as a teacher to speed things along, but meddle too much and the harvest will not be as sweet. As Mason said, let us allow our students to take from a reading what they are ready to digest. Let them explore their world freely. Let them make connections on their own. Prepare the ground with a loving environment, carefully pull out the weeds by helping with habit formation, let them drink deeply from God’s word, and then leave the rest to the fullness of time. (Jennifer Spencer)

This part of Jennifer's article caught my attention, it speaks to the heart of why I homeschool. I want my children to make connections on their own and to be prepared to enjoy and experience life but some days I miss the mark and I forget the most important part of their education. So often we are trying to get them to tell us everything they know, complete every problem, correct every mistake and the environment is so negatively charged you can't even stand it. The most important part is, CM says it well, "let them drink deeply from God's word." That is the source that will fulfill all their needs, develop their characters, provide enrichment for their mind, body and soul, and give them strength and confidence to pursue His plans for their lives. As they drink deeply, so must we so that we are able to assist in this endeavor.

I encourage you to read the entire article because it is truly an eye-opener to what type of gardener (teacher) you are. I desire to be like the 2nd one ~ the patient gardener, don't you?!

Studying CMSeries

2008-06-28T23:31:00.004-05:00

I'm in 3 different studies for Charlotte Mason's (CMs) writings. ;) I'm enjoying them all and really need to start writing my thoughts down. I'm posting here the schedules for these readings and will start writing my thoughts here ~ it will help me to be accountable as long as I don't forget. LOL

Vol 1
~ this is being studied weekly on the CMSeries yahoo group
Jun 28th ~ Part 1 p1-10 (10)
July 4th ~ Part 1 p11-19 (9)
July 11th ~ Part 1 p20-27 (8)
July 18th ~ Part 1 p28-34 (7)
July 25th ~ Part 1 p35-41 (7)

Aug 1st ~ Part 2 p42-50 (8)
Aug 8th ~ Part 2 p51-61 (11)
Aug 15th ~ Part 2 p62-71 (10)
Aug 22nd~ Part 2 p72-79 (8)
Aug 29th ~ Part 2 p80-87 (8)
Sept 5th ~ Part 2 p88-95 (8)

Sept 12th ~ Part 3 p96-104 (9)
Sept 19th ~ Part 3 p105-114 (10)
Sept 26th ~ Part 3 p115-123 (9)
Oct 3rd ~ Part 3 p124-134 (11)

Oct 10th ~ Part 4 p135-141 (7)
Oct 17th ~ Part 4 p 142 - 148 (10)
Oct 24th ~ Part 4 p149-158 (10)
Oct 31st ~ Part 4 p159-168 (10)

TBD ~ Part 5 & 6

Vol 5
~ local CM group reading on a monthly basis
July ~ Under a Cloud p33
Aug ~ Dorothy Elmore's Achievement p41
Sept ~ Consequences p68

Vol 6
~ this is studied every 2 weeks on the CMSeries yahoo group
Jun 15th - Jun 28th ~ Three Instruments of Education p99-104
Jun 29th - Jul 12th ~ Three Instruments of Education p104-111
Jul 13th - Jul 26th ~ How We Make Use of Mind p112-118
Jul 27th - Aug 9th ~ How We Make Use of Mind p118-127
Aug 10th - Aug 23rd ~ The Way of the Will p128-132
Aug 24th - Sept 6th ~ The Way of the Will p132-138
Sept 7th - Sept 20th ~ The Way of the Reason p139-144
Sept 21st - Oct 4th ~ The Way of the Reason p144-153
Oct - Dec ~ The Curriculum

Feel free to join us and you can read CMs writings here for free. ;)

Refreshed

2008-06-25T06:50:00.005-05:00

I'm back from the CM conference in NC and I'm refreshed. My passion for homeschooling has been restored and I've renewed my commitment to finish. It has been difficult at times and I'm glad I've not given up. I've also decided I still need a place for my homeschool thoughts so they don't get buried in my everyday stuff. So, welcome back to our homeschool blog ~ grab a cup of coffee and sit for a spell ~ not long though you've got your own stuff to do. ;) I've given this blog a new look and will be adding my links back soon along with moving the homeschoolblogger entries over too, I think my season for blogging there is over but I will keep my account to visit my fellow hs'rs.

I've posted several thoughts on the conference already and I won't re-type those but you are welcome to read them at the links below:

~ '08 CM Conference ~

~ '08 CM Conference ~ Pt 2

As I finalize my booklist, schedules and plans I'll post ~ right now I'm still in the planning stage. What has been decided is ~ we will school for 6wks then take a 1 week off then I'll decide whether to go 9 wks on and 1 wk off ~ I believe I need to start planning an off week so that I can re-group and not burnout. I've also decided that Riley will use Yr 7 lite and Da Boy will finish Yr 6 during this 6 week period.

Change is good!

2007-12-23T00:26:00.000-06:00

I'm working on changing the blog's look. I think its time for something new and some cleaning up around here. There won't be much going on til the first week of January since its holiday break but sprucing up will be taking place.

Have a very "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"

~ Something to think about ~

2007-09-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

Charlotte Mason says that we are to give our children "something to do, something to love and something to think about." As I prepare to begin this school year, I want us to have these 3 elements in our homeschool. I know in the past I have failed but I tried. I think the following quote needs to be lived with in order to grasp the fullness of its meaning. Enjoy!

"Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing yet had been done."

~ C.S. Lewis ~

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Summer's ending....

2007-08-26T15:10:00.000-05:00

Wow! Summer is over and its time to hit the books. Well, not necessarily hit them but its time to crack them open. For some, they have already started or haven't stopped. ;D Around here, we will begin the day after Labor day. I decided to change things abit this year and we will mimic the public school schedule a little bit since our school year begins with work at our state fair. We will be spending lots of time there and so school needs to start differently. I plan to ease us into our studies to allow us time to really enjoy both. I don't want us to burn out and then nothing gets done. That would be too much after working so hard to get us back on track. This week is my first week back to school ~ lots of planning, scheduling and organizing. I am hoping to get the schedules done today, at least my own so that I can be more organized. I find that if I'm organized and confident than the rest falls into place no matter what. I'm planning out my entire quarter like I did when I taught computer classes. This way, I am able to tweak the plans and fill in the gaps as needed instead of being ready for a few days or a couple weeks then nothing.... which we all knows leads to nothing getting done after such a great start. I'm creating lesson planning times for myself, schedule quarterly planning too so that I can have the next ones ready. I'm enjoying the planning process and I look forward to moving into the learning process.

Changes will be made this year too. I will be separating them this year. They will both work on the same AO/HEO year but we will only do the electives together and projects. This means they will each have the same courses but at different times of the day. I've decided to do more of a tutor/class style this year. I was reading the new TOS and got some ideas on de-stressing and I'm finding that we work well together on certain subjects but not all. Yes, this will mean that I will have to do lessons 2x but they are worth it and my peace of mind is too. As I think more about this, I am more at peace and confident that this will work well for them. They are 13 mos apart and quite different in a lot of ways but academically have always been about the same. However, I will create the difference needed for each to see what they strengths and weaknesses are without the pressure to compete. Now there are times when I will need to have that pressure and its healthy but my nervous system doesn't need that kind of stimulation daily. LOL

Today, I will continue to rest and read. I'm also getting ready for our Volume 1 Study at CMSeries, our book study at CMasonStudy and helping with our local CM support group. I'm looking forward to the stimulation that comes from sharing, pondering and listening to others discuss something you are passionate about. It should help me stay focused and connected to others as we move along this wonderful learning journey. I admit I had gotten a little discouraged and was wondering why I was doing this. After the CM conference, I regained my focus and took much needed time off. We never did get to our summer studies but you know what, its ok and they are so much happier for it. I believe they just needed to hang out with me. It will all work out for our good and thats that.

You all have a wonderful sunday afternoon.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Who knew....

2007-08-15T18:55:00.000-05:00

I sure didn't ~ I have been out of high school for over 20yrs ~ all the paperwork and blah, blah, blah you must provide to go to college. Well, at least its for a good cause ~ my dc. ;D They are worth all the paperwork, hoops and blah, blah, blah I must do to get them in.

I've spent a good portion of my day w/Riley applying for culinary schools and requesting info. I will work on Da Boy's stuff tomorrow. We need to get ready with some prep tests and such but one thing at a time. I will be re-evaluating our current school plans to include all these wonderful additions. They must take the ACT here in OK but I will have them take the SAT too and Riley will have to take a few AP courses/tests for one of selected schools. I believe that they will do marvelous wherever they go and I will do my part to get them there.

I will update on our progress more now that school will begin soon. We thought it best to get some basics lined up and then after the fair we will have full course load. I'm excited because they are really wanting to do this. Sk8Chick got a full-time job and is planning to go to school now with the help of her employer. I will be helping her get her paperwork done too and that will be fun. Well, off to listen to a book on cd and sip some lovely tea.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Plans of Mice & Men

2007-08-01T23:32:00.000-05:00

As you can tell we have not done summer school. Oh well, life happened and I am not concerned. We will resume in a few weeks but then the fair will begin so I’m prayerfully concerning our next steps. I’m not concerned anymore because I’ve been thinking about this for a bit and realized that I was stressing myself out. This will not help us in anyway so I’ve let go and will let God help put the pieces together. I was reading a friend’s blog this week and she was talking about the same thing. I took away a lot from her posts and realize that I too will need to trust the Lord for His guidance and direction especially since He called me to this vocation. He knows better than I what will need to be done and when.

I hope you all are enjoying your summer. I’ll be back soon.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

1st Day of Summer School

2007-07-01T14:04:00.000-05:00

We did it ~ we had our first day. My first day's plans was to introduce the order of our days, subjects to be covered and to review our reading goals. I gave them a mental math test which helped me to know which areas need more attention for better planning. I gave each of them a copy of the MEP Summer School homework book, a list of the literature read during AO Yrs 1-6 and plan to give them each a book log to record books read during the summer. I had them check the books read on the literature list, mark the ones they didn't finish or are currently reading. I think this will help us stay focus and we can get ready to move forward. Sk8Chick has agreed to do some of our lessons with us and had fun taking the mental test too. I will try to update weekly and it will probably be on Sundays since that is my most relaxed day on the net and when the computer seems to cooperate.

Weekly schedule:
We will meet 3 days a week for 2 hrs ~ tues/wed/fri
Tues/Wed ~ review work, complete independent assignments, group work in reading/art/music/poetry
Fri ~ introduce new lessons and assign next week's work
Mon/Thu ~ are volunteer days for 4hrs ea
Weekends will be reserved for rest/chores/trips

Off to write my lesson plans. Have a wonderful week & Happy 4th.

Summer Term

2007-06-27T10:03:00.000-05:00

Here is our planned school work for the next 12 wks:

Bible
~ Proverbs
~ Galatians & Ephesians

English
Group Reading
~ Penrod
~ Rob Roy
~ Selected Poetry from Yr 6 list

Individual Reading
~ Pre Yr 7 list (books not read)

Math
~ MEP Summer School

Art/Music
~ Richard Wagner & Jacques Offenbach (6 compositions each)
~ Titian (6 prints)
* AO selections for Term 3

Break Time

2007-06-27T10:01:00.000-05:00

We've been taking a bit of a break and its been wonderful. Though its been very rainy here, we still managed to relax a bit. Back to work soon plus getting ready for the new term which is just around the corner.

I've been working and planning but I managed to get to the Charlotte Mason Education Conference hosted by ChildLight USA. It was absolutely wonderful. I enjoyed the sessions, meeting wonderful people and spending time alone, with my oldest dd and those whom I've met online. The conference takes place on a beautiful university campus tucked away in a mountain of NC. I was able to meet and talk w/leaders in the CM community like Jack Beckman, Bobby Scott and listen by telephone conference to John Thorley and Ranald Macauley. It was truly a wonderful opportunity that I look forward to doing again. I'm writing narrations of my sessions but haven't gotten them typed up yet to post but soon.

We will start our summer session this Friday. I'm working today to get all books printed including the MEP summer school math. It reviews the work covered in 1-6 and will give us the footing to move forward. I'll post our reading list as soon as I finish that up. We will also catchup with the AO groups and do the artist and composer studies we missed. I'm excited because we are progressing. They passed the end of term exams and are getting back into the swing of things. Not a bed of roses, but at least we are on the same page again and thats very nice.

More updates later, I hope everyone is enjoying the start of summer.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

~ Term Ending ~

2007-05-23T11:59:00.000-05:00

As our school term comes to a close, I realize that I will need to work on finalizing our school year. I will have to start working on transcripts and such so that I am ready. Its been a very interesting term, which didn't go as I thought it would. Not only did I not blog as I'd like nor did we do all the things I'd hope we'd do. The field trips were none existent, the art projects ~ none after the first one, the books read ~ not many at all, however, I believe we had a very productive term because we focused on what was important.

Well, I must go now and I will post a full update of our term plus the plans for our summer school. Yes, we will be doing summer school because we have missed so much time during the 17mos I worked. LOL However, the work will not be strenous nor will it take all day and everyday to accomplish. The kiddos are pleased with the suggestions I have made and I think we will have a wonderful time especially since they will be working, I will be working and then we will get to go on mini-vacations. Woohoo! thats the part I'm looking forward to.

Til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

2007-05-12T23:08:00.000-05:00

~ Happy Mother's Day ~

May each of you have an awesome day. I'll be off line today, enjoying my family, some knitting time and then off to work for a few hours.

Be blessed

Nothing New ;D

2007-05-08T21:13:00.000-05:00

Well, its been quiet around here and we have been out of school for the past week. Back to the books tomorrow though. Maybe I'll get an update for ya, especially since we have been doing something worth writing about.

Have a great evening!

~ School Out ~

2007-04-14T03:57:00.000-05:00

Well, our term will be ending in about 2 weeks. We are suppose to be on break this week but due to the upcoming volunteer opportunity at the end of the month, we move things around. Overall, everything is going well though we are still moving slowly thru math. No big deal, its all a process and we take it one day at a time. I'm thinking about starting my week in review again so that I can see our progess. I do it for my own teacherly purposes, you know so I know that I know what we are doing. ;D So stay tuned, I will be posting our weekly updates on Weds again but am considering switching to Mons.

Have a great weekend!

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

No School....Well kinda ;D

2007-03-30T01:27:00.000-05:00

Today, we had school at a local convention center. Woohoo! We had praise & worship, awesome prayer and a dynamite, much need message on "The Blessing." I am so glad I choose to do this. Now to get back to those books. LOL

Hope you all had an awesome day too!

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Nothing Much....

2007-03-27T22:53:00.000-05:00

Yelp, nothing much has been happening around this place. We've managed to get the basics done ~ Bible, Reading, Penmanship and little Math ~ but for the most part our days were spent out in the sun. I think we had spring fever but not sure and the neighborhood children were on spring break. It has been fairly peaceful and the kiddos are actually getting up in the morning to do school. Yeah! We still don't have a consistent time table but we follow my loose schedule to get things done. They've started a little knitting group, going to the park, walking and riding their bikes so I don't have any compliments because they usually laid around all day doing nothing. I've had my prayers answered ~ I wanted them to have more acquainces their age and they have started meeting more teens. This is neat because they feel a sense of belonging that is definitely needed.

Overall, we are doing well. Progress is definitely being made. I just need to update my blog more regularly. Not sure why I'm not motivated but I'll get it together soon. Hope you all are doing well and enjoying the spring weather.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Reflections....

2007-03-16T00:22:00.000-05:00

I've not been blogging much for our hs but thats okay. I've got most of it written in my journal and when I make time, I'll do a proper update. I have been thinking about what I want us to do next and what direction to proceed in. We've experienced several setbacks, nothing major, just little things that have sidetracked me a bit. More than anything, I have figured out that I am very tired and it was due to never resting while working. I don't know what I thought would happen once I stopped working but I was tired when I worked and I'm still tired because I don't rest. I was listening to a ministry cd tonight and the speaker talked about just that, resting. He discussed how God had dealt with him on resting and he didn't get it. I am like that too. Just too stubborn, pig headed or something until it hits me upside the head.

Well, life hit me upside the head last week. I have been dragging myself around, not able to get up before 9a and the worse, didn't bother to do lessons. I'd just sit, knit or do absolutely nothing. Then the car broke down and started to put some things into perspective. We've been w/o a car for 2wks now and my home has been more peaceful until this afternoon when I began to worry about how I was going to get to work. Well, enough of that, I realize that I need to rest more than I need extra spending $. I need to be more discipline with the finances I have and simply rest. My dc need me to be the best teacher I can be and that begins with me taking care of me.

Now don't misunderstand, we have been working but no formal lessons have been done. No big either, we have done Bible, we read together or alone, and we do lots of math even if its just working in the kitchen. I've managed to make lots of things by hand, you can read more here. My dc are starting to do more with their hands and we've taken 3 walks this week. Yeah! Its been a very long time since we actually did any physical activity. It has been good for us and we have been reflecting on why we are here, what we have learned and where we will go next not forgetting what we've been through. Oh, we really would like to have transportation but it has given us time to consider our ways and what is best for our family. Plus the dc have been able to spend time w/their dad too.

So as far as academics go, I think I am now finally doing what I had been praying and planning about in this post. I am finally teaching, and living, so that my dc know life isn't all about academics. It is about living a life that is full, content and in service to the Most High. This is a full life and I'm going to enjoy every single minute of it.

Have a great weekend!

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

~January Update~

2007-03-02T11:35:00.000-06:00

Whew it has been a very long time since I last posted about our progress. It has really been slow and steady. Part of the re-adjustment to me being at home. I’ve taken up a new hobby ~ knitting and I’ve been spending more time reading, listening and being. This has allowed me to be active in other areas than hsg. But I’m returning because I really enjoy recording our progress and sharing w/others on their journey. It keeps us all connected.

So w/o further ado, here is a summary of what’s happening with the Warriors:
Jan. 10th ~ marks the first day of our new term. We began slowly with me focusing on what is most important and what schedule will work best. I used our time to have discussions with Da Boy and Riley about what they’d like to accomplish this year and what they thought needed to be improved. After this discussion, I decided that things needed to be kept short and sweet ~ very simple for my sake. We would officially begin on the 31st, my last day at the library.

Week of 1/15 ~ 1/19
I began planning our term, working to determine where was the best place for us to start. I decided on our art and picture study, it would be the same as AO. I selected the pictures to be used and then I selected our group reading material. I created a separate entry to keep up with these are listed in the sidebar.

Week of 1/22 ~ 1/26
My plan was to move them both up to Yr 7 in AO, however, I found out neither is ready for this jump. I worked out a school calendar to help me stay focused and to include breaks, exams and such info. However, it is a very flexible calendar so that when life happens we are able to roll with it. I created our daily schedule to be about a 3 1/2 - 4 hour day which will include 1/2 of drill/exercise. This week was a no lesson week due to ice storm and the necessity of prayer and planning. We spent time reading, enjoying the comfort of our cozy home and the snow. ;D

I have decided to move slowly back into the flow of learning. I will work on habits and take my time with what is to be covered and when. I will be transitioning into a full schedule by using CMs school schedule to help. We will begin with the Form 1 schedule to allow us time to develop and reinforce needed skills and habits. Our schedule will rotate on a 6 day cycle and will be done by order of day. So, if we miss a day, we begin on the next day )i.e Day 1 last worked day begin with Day 2 assignments).

Jan. 26th ~ was our first day of lessons. This was done to determine where really stood. I wanted to see how each would work on the new schedule, where they were in math and what I needed to address as I created my lesson plans. I have begun using lesson plans again and they have been a life savior.

Our schedule looked like this:

20m ~ OT Bible - Gen 5

20m ~ Penmanship - Frost poem (actually 10m)

10m ~ Recitation - Bible Ps 37:5

10m ~ French - Lesson 1 (actually covered Spanish-tape player wouldn't work)

20m ~ Math - Lesson 1 MEP Yr 5 (actually 25m)

15m ~ Break - outside

15m ~ Drill - outside

30m ~ Reading - audio Da Boy- Trumpet of the Swan, Riley - Treasure Island

10m ~ Natural History - organized books

Music appreciation ~ Schumann cd1 hour home blessing ~ living and dining rooms, bathroom and kitchen

*overall a very productive day. 30m was cut from schedule due to starting late and I wanted to be done by 12:30p.

Week of 1/29 - 2/2

Mon & Tues - reading and copywork. Da Boy began Black Beauty. I spent both days fine tuning lesson plans and working out math strategies, reading CM and printing materials.

Wed ~ snow day. No formal lessons today and my last day at work. Developed my lesson plan outline to be able to keep track of where we are and where I want to go over a 6 day period. Though there were no formal lessons, the following was done: Bible NT ~ John 2; Copywork ~ John 2:23-25; Math ~ p2 #1 & 4; and Reading.

Thurs ~ we began lessons again which was Day 2 on my lesson plan that included art study. Art study was amazing. I read over CMs notes as well as WCL2L’s section, and had tremendous results. They both really surprised me with the work. The oral narrations were very good as were their illustrations for Bible. We worked through Week #1 of math and I am finding that we need to add in more mental math and basic arithmetic for reinforcement. We began Ps 91 for recitation and I believe this will be ready in 4wks for a formal recite. I am spending time actually lesson planning like I did when I taught computers, this has been very helpful in keeping me on track, flexible and confident. Definitely a plus around here.

Fri ~ another eventful day and we managed to complete all but 1 lesson ~ crafts. We did drill, mental math and had a read aloud. I’m exhausted but I was before we started, its the second day home and I’m finding I was very tired. We did the first lesson in the “Italics” book.

At the end of this week I discovered that there was a lot that needed to be done in order for us to have a successful hs. The following is a brief list of things I am working on:

1. attitude ~ too much time spent alone has developed some tudes that aren’t appropriate

2. communication ~ nothing is said w/o it being ugly or degrading

3. responsibility ~ too much time alone has created an air that they are in charge and need to tell the other what to do

4. habits ~ they appear non-existent at this point but I am sure they just have become dormant

5. character ~ also appears non-existent though it too was new before them being left alone

6. organization ~ its a mess, enough said. need a plan

I am confident that things will improve. I will work slow and steady, individually and at their level of understanding. I will endeavor to develop confidence, trust and cooperation in them and allow them the time necessary to adjust to this again. It is an adjustment for me and them, however, I am hopeful and the Lord has not given me this assignment to fail nor left me w/o the proper resources to get it done. My main resource ~ prayer. We will work more on their level, not mine and there will be some weeks we do less and some we will do more. I am not discouraged and I am at peace with this plan.

Well that’s all for now. I’ll update soon on February and then start fresh with March. I am journaling all our progress, including the little details of what is working, why and what I do when it doesn’t. I may share some of my notes on this but for now I’ll “keep it simple ~ just the facts.”

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

*Take advantage of the awesome deal at The Old Schoolhouse ~ click the banner for details.

Wow ~ what a slacker ;D

2007-02-19T23:42:00.000-06:00

Did you miss me? I hope so but I must apologize for being MIA and when there is so much to tell too. I'll have to take time to update on wed, not much energy left now. I want a long hot bath, some chocolate then a good nights sleep. Thats been lacking of late, too much staying up, working ~ subbing @ library and filling in at bbw and then the awesome concert that I was at from 8a-1a on friday. Whew! I'm a bit whipped.

The kiddos are doing wonderful especially with the art study and I've got lots to share which I've been keeping in my journal. Yes, I started a new one and have been faithful to write in it so updating will be smooth.

Have a great evening. ;D

TOS Valentine Sale ~ Hurry

2007-02-05T10:20:00.000-06:00

The Old Schoolhouse is doing it again ~ a spectacular sale

on great books and resources.

If you missed the last one, go over now and stock up.

You won't be disappointed.

TOS Valentine Sale

ends Feb. 6, 2007

Progress Report

2007-01-22T00:33:00.000-06:00

It's been quiet here. Not much happening thanks to the ice storm and cold temperatures. We were even expecting lots of snow but that didn't happen, just rain and sleet. Too bad ~ I wanted to stay home and snuggle, drink hot chocolate sitting by a fire. Maybe another day but I did resign from the library and look forward to spending much more time at home w/my family. I am also finished with working at BBW for the season though I will am on-call for them. I was thinking about applying for another pt job, about 10 hrs a week but decided that I am going to rest and let God do what He promised for our family and spend my time w/Him. Between teaching, volunteering, working w/my support groups, drawing, writing and subbing sometimes ~ I believe I have plenty to do w/o having to take on a new job. Besides, dh decided it was time to start selling books, so that will keep me busy too ~ a home business.

To recap, we have been just reading and resting. I am planning our course for the year. Taking my time to decide what would be best and to allow myself transition from work back to home. I am finding that my full attention is required to move us forward in our studies, therefore I am using these weeks to prepare for the move up in our course work. I am hoping to begin Year 7 in February but I want to be here to be apart of the lessons and studies. I have never read most of the books they will be working through and want to do so. I so look forward to working with them instead of trying to get them to work. Thats a hard job and hasn't been the easiest thing for me to accept.

Our book list is not complete. I'll try to get it posted before Feb but it may not happen before the 31st, which is my last day at the library. Riley and Da Boy are reading the last of the books they haven't read on the Pre-Year 7 list in preparation for Year 7. I'll update more later in the week. Have a great week!

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Our New Look

2007-01-15T20:38:00.000-06:00

Its done! Whew, glad thats over. The kiddos decided that we needed a total overhaul, so here it is. I will continue to update it and transfer our files from HSB so they are here too. For now, you can access them in the sidebar. I'll add my most visited hs blogs too and maybe a few extras too. ;D

Anyway, hope you enjoy our new place in cyberspace. Just one step away from the website ~ on the horizon though, now that I have capable students to manage it.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

Planning Progress

2007-01-14T22:50:00.000-06:00

I have spent my time wisely this weekend, shutup inside during the ice storm. I've managed to get the following done:

1. school calendar for 07

2. draft of our programme of study

3. drafts of lesson plans

4. organizing my lesson book

5. determine which books we still needed

6. create a to do list for etext printing and other docs

I've returned to my Jan - Dec school planning and I'm very pleased with that. I will be posting my programme of study this week, which includes our book list, but only for the 1st term. I'll post each term separately just in case there is a change in direction, I won't have to delete a bunch of entries.

I'll update later in the week, I'm not sure if I'll start blogging daily or just once a week as before. I will also be working on updating the sidebar and transferring my archives from HSB ~ very slow process. ;D

Have a great week.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

~ 1st Term 2007 ~

2007-01-13T00:41:00.000-06:00

Its almost completed though we have been back to our studies since wed. I am finalizing our plans for the term taking into consideration my absence and other various items. I have posted them under my categories ~ group reading, art/music study, etc. These two are done and I'll work on our main book list this weekend since I don't have to go to work tomorrow. Yeah me!

Anyway, just using my time to update, arrange and make our blog current. Have a great evening ~ still icy around here but oh so warm inside. :D

Cold, cozy kind of weather

2007-01-12T15:03:00.000-06:00

We are in the middle of an ice storm and the governor has declared a state of emergency preparation for us. I'm happy, its cold outside but very warm inside ~ hearts and lovely fire. We skipped school today and went grocery shopping. We won't be doing that again when there is a storm warning. I wasn't aware of the governor's declaration and found myself in lots of traffic. We managed to get all our necessities along w/some extras and are safely back at home where dh has started a fire. I am cooking dinner in the crockpot ~ creamy turkey with egg noodles, will make a very rich pound cake later and homemade hot chocolate. The kiddos are coloring and we will be listening to a book on cd soon. Not sure if we are listening to my book, Sense & Sensibility or the Tales of Two Cities. Either way it should be a lovely afternoon though dh had to return to work to complete payroll in case our weather does get bad thru the weekend.

I'll go now, must check in at some other sites quickly before logging off. Have an excellent week.

til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!

Books ~ free ones

2007-01-11T20:29:00.000-06:00

As you know, I love books and especially the ones that are "free." Since joining a wonderful yahoo group ~ Best of All Books ~ I've found a new free online library for books. No bookcases needed, no stacks, no clutter ~ yippee! I wanted to pass this on to my hsg/blogging buddies so that you too, if you already hadn't, can take advantage of this wonderful resource. Its called "The Free Library" and you can access the site here.

Enjoy!

~ We're Back ~

2007-01-10T20:57:00.000-06:00

Well actually, I'm back. I've been refreshed, rejuvenated and energized. I'm now ready to take back what I've laid down and begin again. Its been a long time since I looked forward to working in my home and accomplish school. Oh yes, I mean with a whole heart attitude. I realized that I had become discontent, uninspired and simply lacked the motivation to have a truly wonderful home atmosphere.

We began school today. I planned a very simple list of things to cover and we did them all. ;D For the next few weeks, we will not be doing formal lessons so that I may transition home and plan our move. We will be covering basics things though, Bible, Music, Home Ec, Mental Math, Crafts and Art. It will be all low key so that we may be able to focus on sorting, cleaning, minimizing and packing our home. Oh, and building our relationships again. The most important objective for us.

I'll update our school schedules and plans as soon as I have them solidified. I'm planning to change some of my sidebar features and add a Q&A section, some of my notes from book studies, etc. It will be a wonderful resource section, I hope. ;D

Well, off to do more cleaning. Talk w/you all soon.

~ til next time in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

~Happy New Year~

2007-01-01T00:46:00.000-06:00

May you all celebrate this new beginning with joy and thanksgiving to our Lord and Saviour. May He continue to richly bless you and yours and fill your hearts and homes with His presence, love, grace, mercy and abundance.
"Happy New Year!"

Habits

2006-12-29T19:50:00.000-06:00

"Bad habits are really nothing more than

the wrong decision made over and over."

~ Diana DeLonzor

Now why didn't I think of that. ;D

True Excellence

2006-12-26T18:59:00.000-06:00

We are what we repeatedly do.

Excellence, then,

is not an act,

but a habit.

~ Aristotle

Hmm, interesting isn't it. So like CM too.

Enjoy!

~ Merry Christmas ~

2006-12-25T15:08:00.000-06:00

May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, be shed in and through your homes this wonderful time of year. May you know and abide in His love continually everyday of the New Year.

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior,

which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11

Plans for the New Year

2006-12-17T00:43:00.000-06:00

As I prepare for our upcoming new year and term, I am reflecting on what I want to accomplish and what we have done. I realize that I really need to focus more of my attention on developing my students, not just academics but character as well.

Our CMason Study group is reading "When a Child Loves to Learn" and I must admit that it has given me a whole new perspective of a Charlotte Mason Education. I am finding that it is more than the snippets you can glean here and there, it truly encompass more of the life of the learner and not just the academics. I've been able to relax in my thinking but I do realize that more could be done on my part, as the home educator, but I am too stretched in different directions to be truly effective. I'm glad we are reading this book slowly and I look forward to reading the rest of the book, though I think it will definitely be a re-read in the future.

The following quote has sparked my interest in simplifying so that I can be more effective:

"Education is not a life later; it is a life now." p112

As I reflect on this statement, I realize that I have been planning for the future but not truly taking stock of the now. This is their educational (mine too) life now and we need to focus on the now and not what is to become. I've been struggling with not being prepared enough for the future, for not planning the proper course for college bound students, for not being able to teach something, when in reality the only concern I need is the now. What can I do now to improve their education life and draw them toward the life they are to lead later? Am I fulfilling the requirements of an effective home educator, or am I simply doing whatever necessary to get it done and over with. I really don't want to be the latter but I think I have not been taking myself or what I need to do seriously enough to be more than that. I want more out of our homeschool and therefore, it will require more of me. Ooch! thats the part that I've been negligent of mainly. I am grateful that the Lord is patient, kind, longsuffering and has a way of turning everything around for our good.

As I prayerfully plan our next steps, taking in to account the things that are important and some long range goals, I'll be able to balance homeschooling better. It is my prayer that we grow, learn and share together. I am purposing to make changes in me first, then I am certain the changes in the dc will come. CMs style is very gentle and peaceful, which is what our lives need at this time, and I do miss our teachable and impromptu moments that are breed in this type of atmosphere.

My first lesson plan assignment will be: Creating an atmosphere to grow in. Hmm, I like the sounds of that. I'll share more as I develop my thoughts, read more CM and rest in the Lord's care, letting Him lead and direct our progress (He does such a better job at it than I).

May you all have a blessed day!

~ Our New Home ~

2006-12-16T02:34:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our new home. Come on in, and please excuse the dust as we settle in. Things are a bit out of place at the moment but I'll be sure to get that cleaned up soon.

As you can see, I've moved our homeschool blog over to blogger. I made the decision to simplify my life and the time I spend logging in and out of blog sites. I will not be closing my homeschoolblogger account ~ just posting here and sending the feed over there so that I may keep in touch w/my HSB friends and visit them when I can.

Thanks for stopping by. Have an awesome weekend!

~ Schools Out ~

2006-12-14T01:50:00.000-06:00

Woohoo! We made it and now its time for a much needed break.

We began our winter break today and it will probably last until Jan 10th, being that it was suppose to be a month long. I am looking forward to resting and relaxing though it may not really happen since it is the last days before Christmas and everyone is starting to shop. BBW hasn't been as busy as I thought it would be but it was very busy today. I can only imagine how it will p/u in the days ahead. The library will be going to shorten hours on Mon ~ yeah! and I will get a mini-vacation starting the 22nd. I don't return to the library until the 30th, which will be very nice.

Dh's b-day is on the 23rd and we've planned a lovely surprise for him just among the family. Oh, did I mention, I've done all my shopping, there is only wrapping the gifts, cleaning the homefront and putting up the decorations which we plan to start on tomorrow. I am so happy because I really wanted this to be a stress-free holiday and was working to simplify everything. Yes, I did purchase most of my gifts from BBW and online, which made my life easier. The sales at BBW were spectacular to say the least and I've only used my discount maybe 3x since I've been there because of the great sales. Dh and I have been enjoying the Christmas Blend from Starbucks and I look forward to stashing some in the freezer for the days when it isn't available.

Da Boy is ready for his break and Riley is looking forward to doing some personal projects. Sk8rchick has been knitting and recently started a crocheted purse, which is very lovely. I expect that she will be doing many more projects since I found a great deal on yarn at Hobby Lobby a while back - skeins for $.50 - $1.00 each, not bad if I say so myself. I'll see about posting pics of finished projects. I'm even working on crocheted socks, something I hadn't attempted before. I plan to listen to some audio classics while I crochet which help me to concentrate on my work and allow me the opportunity to read/hear favorites and books never read.

Here is my list:

Emma
Sense and Sensibilty
Wuthering Heights (2nd x around)
Jane Erye (2nd x around)
A Tale of Two Cities

The kiddos will probably listen w/me and I'll watch anime videos w/them while we make cookies or something. I plan to work on lesson plans the first of the year instead of the last week. I've decided I needed to focus on home life for now and let the rest take care of itself. I will be trimming a lot of clutter from my life in the new year as well so that I can be efficient at what means most to me. I really love being home and I must make the decision to protect my ability to be there and stick w/it no matter what.

I hope each of you enjoy your holiday breaks from school and that you will get to know the hearts of your children more. I know this can be a very busy, stressful and even lonely time for some, however, I pray that each of you are blessed beyond measure and draw closer to God as He draws closer to you.

Off to plan our crafts and homey things. I think we shall read "Oxcart Man" again. Its such a lovely book, who knows maybe this year we will be able to do more of the things this family does so mom can stay home full-time.

~ Be Blessed ~
til next time ~ in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!!

We're Back!!

2005-10-15T17:49:00.000-05:00

Well, the fair is over and it has been a blast. We have been out of the loop for about three weeks and now its time to catchup. We began week 6 on wed and all is going slow w/hs. I'm not worried since we accomplished so much the previous weeks.

Now for the update.

Week 4 - Sept 28th

We began gearing up for our volunteer work at the fair and worked on lots of handicraft projects and ideas. we managed to read Shakespeare, Plutarch and Mere Christianity along w/our group Bible reading. It was fun. We are reading "Twelfth Night" from Lambs' Tales and I am enjoying it. The fair opened the 29th and we started volunteering on Oct. 1st working 4hrs (12p-4p). Each time we worked they gave us 2 gate passes and a meal ticket. It was really nice. By Mon the 3rd, we had over 21 tickets we were able to give away. I really enjoyed doing that. We only managed to keep up with personal Bible time and some chores of our regular routine.

Week 5 - Oct 5th

Since wed is our group day, I took our books with us on our drive to the fair. We read Prov 5, Mere Christianity and Shakespeare. Dad was driving and he commented on how much he enjoyed listening to our read aloud. It was very peaceful and a much needed refreshment during the fair work. We managed to work more than we had intended for the fair. We originally were scheduled for only 4 - 4hr days and then we ended up helping as needed for an additional 4-5 days. Dad even helped out twice. School has not suffered, but the house and poor "Poochie" (our 9mo old German Shepherd mix puppy), he didn't think we loved him anymore.

Week 6 - Oct 12th

We began this week with regrouping efforts to get some semblance of order to our home and lives. We have been on the go for so long that we don't know if we are coming or going. We have lots to do, but it is okay. We don't feel pressured like we have in the past when we missed a couple of days on our schedule. It is very nice to know we just pick up where we left off and all is well. On thurs, we attended the appreciation dinner for the fair volunteers and found out we managed to work approx. 182 hours between the five of us in 9 days. That was incredible to us. We have been asked to come again next year and have made some new friends, too. We are planning to get together for a youth night and we were even invited over for Thanksgiving.

Whew! Alot has happened for us in the last three weeks. Oldest dd and I even had to go to a staff training day during this time too. We learned some new things, but mainly we wished we had slept in. (a little sleep deprived)

I believe we are all thriving and growing and this journey of life is awesome. The detours are proving to be marvelous and are allowing us to look for the silver lining in every opportunity and situation.

Well, till next week - in the Life & Times of the Excelsior Warriors.

Bye ~ Dawn ; )

New Things

2005-09-24T00:30:00.001-05:00

Today, we started a Yahoo! group for homeschool teens in OK. It is called "AmblinOkiesTeens" and the children are glad to finally have a place to meet others and share, chat and whatever they do. We invited a couple of people to join and we'll see how that goes.

Today, we spent most of our time on the computer creating, editing and setting up the group. I also did some research for images to be added to their group page as well as finding images for my blog page. I uploaded my first image - its of Nags Head Beach, N.C. We so miss the beach, but we are glad for the images available on the net to keep us happy for now.

Everything else kinda didn't get done, I was off and we worked on the group project. I think overall it was a good day.

Tell next time - in the Life & Times of the Excelsior Warriors.

Dawn ; )

Week 3 Begins ;)

2005-09-22T00:35:00.000-05:00

Today is the beginning of week 3 and it was a fun filled day. I am writing today, because my oldest wants our blog to be kept current. So, here is today's adventures.

We began with review and discussion about our schedules and work required. I explained how dictation and recitation works and why we will be doing it. We discussed the methods of narration and their purpose. It appears everyone has a clearer understanding of their responsibilities, so we will hope for the best.

Wed. is our humanities day - we are scheduled to do Bible-Old Testament Study, Bible History, Shakespeare, Plutarch Lives, Nature Study/Walk, Singing and Recitations/Dictations. However, this is our third Wed and we still haven't been able to fully complete our scheduled items. Well, its okay, because we did cover a lot of review material in Bible-OT. That was very encouraging. I think they realize that they did learn something and that sometimes they need a refresher from time to time. We reviewed Genesis and the various stories outlined in the first book of the Torah. We discussed the Hebrew and Greek name of the first five books of the Bible. They did remember the names and what they mean. Very impressive. We then covered singing. Oh, what fun this was. LOL We worked on our scales and then we practiced singing in harmony, unison and singing without passing out. We finally ended our session working on the selection of two songs for a presentation, which would also earn them 4-H points when completed. We typed out the words to various songs and we will continue with our music lessons just like we would do if we were in a choir. We will learn rhythm, notes and breathing techniques as well as stage presence. I look forward to the outcome of this wonderful adventure.

Well, I gotta go. Til tomorrow - with more in the life & times of the Excelsior Warriors!

Dawn ; )

Week 1 & 2

2005-09-20T00:23:00.000-05:00

We have successfully completed week 1 of our new school year. We have begun week 2 and things are in full swing and running very smoothly. We have tweaked our schedules and have found our rhythm and it feels good. Though I do regret, from time to time, working outside the home, the children having done a marvelous job with keeping up. We have shared our simplified schedule with a couple of people and hope that they can find a balance as we have.

This week #2:

Wed - 9/14: was our first official group day that got off to a late start (Mom had sinus issues from allergies - ugh!). We discussed the first week of school and any changes or needs for the upcoming weeks. I discovered that some books were missing and made a note to pick up from the library. We reviewed our Bible lessons from last semester and ds narrated beautifully. He was able to answer 98% of the review questions with accurancy and the older sibs were amazed. They thought he didn't pay attention. CM is working. We talked and just enjoyed each other and I really did enjoy this time with them.

Thurs - 9/15: we attended our first 4-H meeting with Impact 4-H. They joined and found it very exciting and a way to make new friends while doing things they loved. The group leader took them home, fed them dinner and returned them to the library (where the meetings are held) so they could be guests at the Public Speaking 4-H meeting. They decided to join this group as well and ds has even decided to participate in the Communications Rally in November. This is really exciting for he hasn't really wanted to do much and I am seeing a side of my dear son I haven't seen in years. Today also marked the first meeting for our Charlotte Mason Discussion Group/Tulsa. We met at Mardel's and five of us moms got together to discuss CMs methods and to share with one another on this journey of learning. I left feeling much needed encouragement and looking forward to us meeting again.

Fri - 9/16: we discussed options for things to do over the weekend, oldest dd and I went to work. It was a pretty uneventful day.

Sat - 9/17: we attended a garage sale at the home of the Public Speaking 4-H president. We got to meet other members and their families and got a few cool items from the sale. This counted as a 4-H event for them as well, however, I don't have all the details but I think because they helped with cleanup it was community service points. I'll find out more later.

We also went to pick up our schedules and t-shirts for the State Fair. That was fun, we got to meet the volunteer coordinator and her homeschool assistant. We received 8 passes to the fair along with our package and we will be able to count all the volunteer activities for 4-H in several catagories. The dc's really liked this since they will miss one of their 4-H events during this time.

Mon - 9/19: was a routine day for the younger two - however, oldest dd worked at my library today and earned $, community service points and an applause award (she doesn't about this one yet). I was very proud of her for she didn't have to offer to help and she gave up her free time and day off to work. Very awesome in my book.

Tues - tomorrow is the last day of week 2. Our week runs Wed - Tues. Makes life simpler for us, we begin with group and one-on-one then progress to independent days. This week we will be able to do more group, one-on-one and make a library trip for I am off Thurs & Fri. Yeah! Thats all for now.

Tune in again for more in the Life & Times of Excelsior Warriors.

Dawn ; )

New Beginnings

2005-09-10T00:13:00.001-05:00

Welcome, this is my first entry. A lot has transpired since I first created this blog and I am not sure where to begin. However, since it is titled "New Beginnings," I'll keep it to what has happened recently.

We have finished our first week of school and it has been more than I could have ever hoped for. I was very anxious about this year for in it I had high hopes of achieving greatness where I have lacked before. I believe I truly put too much pressure on myself and now I can see that the worry was for naught. The children are happy, content, joyful and have taken to this new school year wonderfully.

We began implementing more Charlotte Mason this year using the wonderful curriculum provided by Ambleside Online. It has been most helpful and freeing to be able to turn to such a resource. I remarked to my husband today, that today was the first day I didn't think, worry or needed to complete something for school and it felt marvelous. The children had few questions and it was a very smooth day.

I was anxious about this year because so many new things were happening to include jumping full tilt into using AO/HEO along with starting a part-time job and all the other marvelous opportunities that were beginning to come our way. Suffice to say, it has been a wonderful day and week. We even met fellow hs'ers today at Chess Club (one of the new opportunities).

The children all have their own schedules and work independently. We have group times set aside for every Wednesday, every other Thursday/Friday and weekly tea-times that my son is so looking forward to. I must admit, I was not expecting such a response or such diligence or willingness to learn since prior years have been somewhat of a struggle. I am truly thankful they are maturing and taking it upon themselves to be more responsible and to truly want to learn. This past school year, I believe, was very helpful in establishing this in them, however, I was unaware of it until recently. I guess, all those long nights and days of praying and trying to make it work have truly paid off.

I look forward to a marvelous year of learning, growing and being all that we are created to be in Him. May the Lord continue to bless our home for His Glory.

Dawn ; )