Homeschooling Helps: weekly planner pages

well, I wanted to have my new apron up for linking to WFMW clothing themed week, but I haven't finished yet! so, instead...

Homeschooling Helps

For the first ever edition of the new series, I would like to share a weekly planner that can be printed out. It has: space for planning a homeschool schedule for two children, full meal planning spots, and includes a weekly bible verse. Page 1 Page 2

I hope to include more pages as I get them up, and by mid August I plan to have the full year planner available as an e-book or printed planner for sale. Subscribe to our all-new newsletter and be notified when new downloads come out. Plus, all newsletter subscribers will recieve a discount off our planner!


I am happy to share this at We Are That Family- WFMW.

Homeschooling 2011 Curriculum

Well, I am super excited to begin my first year of "official" homeschooling, even though Big Boy is only 4 years old! I realized I wasn't doing enough activities with them, and he loves to work on different things. After much back and forth, I have come to a plan that mixes 1/2 Charlotte Mason, 1/4 classical, 1/8 Montessori, and 1/8 us!
I have tried to pull together different curricula that will allow me to keep the boys together for the most part, and many of the items we will be continuing with for the next year or two after this one. So for Year 1, we have:

Winter Promise Ready To Learn; Shiller Math 1 (Montessori based program); Mudpies to Magnets; various other science books including Science in the Creation Week; Phonics Road 1 (just the first few lessons); Story Of The World 2 (just as a family reading book, and including some very simple recommended readers from TruthQuest); probably TruthQuest too!; and Song School Latin.

I know it looks like too much, but rest assured, it will be handed out in tiny doses, and mixed with a large amount of homemade playdough (recipe coming soon!) outside dirt piles, and even some Beatrix Potter "Peter Rabbit and Friends" dvd's (gasp! TV! yes, I still succumb to it...)
We are also working on a heaping amount of character training (for them and for me) using Charlotte Mason techniques. One of my favorite resources this year has been Laying Down the Rails, although I found it used, after reading through a small bit I completely think it is worth the brand-new price (and I rarely say that about anything.) Truly, it has opened my eyes for my own training, which is even more helpful than the knowledge on training for my boys. Because you have to know where to go before you can lead anyone else there.

On the subject of used books, check out my favorite spots: homeschoolclassifieds, well-trained mind forums, vegsource homeschool. I have also found great deals at Ebay, and on the forums for various currciculum providers. Another top resource is The Old Schoolhouse, and they are having an awesome deal right now on packages which include copies of back issues, worth over $100 for only $25!*

I wish you all the best with your homeschooling plans, and would love to hear what you are doing too!
I am happy to share this at Classic Housewife, check out all the great posts!

Please help with an adoption!

A friend on Etsy is planning an adoption, and has created a fun auction to help defray some of the costs. There are lots of great handcrafted items to choose from (including a gift certificate to my eco-friendly shop) so head on over to check them out and place your bids!

Simply Simon Sisters

Later this week, the first in the Spring Cleaning series.

Shelley

Faith and Prayers for Japan

Well, going through my blog stats last night, I have discovered that I have some readers from Japan and other Asian countries. It is odd for me to think that someone on the other side of the world is listening to me, and I wanted to take this time to try to offer a little comfort for those of you affected by the recent tsunami and earthquake.
I had hesitated to write on this topic, as I don't know anyone personally who is there.
However, I would like everyone to know that I, along with everyone else, is truly concerned for all those who live or have family in Japan. You and your families are in our prayers and thoughts.

For anyone who can help, please visit World Vision to donate.

Shelley

Relevant 2011!

I am so excited! I am going to Relevant! I really think that this will impact me in my walk, and I can't wait to hear all of the lovely ladies speaking! Being on a tight budget, I am hoping and praying for sponsors to help with my costs.
I am also trying to offset the admission and hotel costs with my Etsy shop. I am having a sale starting tomorrow, thru the 19th. Use coupon code WBDAY for 15% off. And remember, I donate 40-50% of all proceeds to charity. This month is Gospel for Asia, see my Green Handcrafts store blog for more information.

Up soon: an update of my Spring and Summer seasonal menu planning, and two new series: Spring Cleaning and a Spring 'Greening' series!

P.S. I also would really like to share a room with someone else to defray costs, so if anyone reading is going and would be willing to share a room, just leave a comment or email me! Bonus if you're also a Real Foodie, 'cause I'll be bringing lots of sourdough bread and pastured butter and we could share!

Cultivating Patience

Although I can't say much, I can say this: I try to acknowledge my weaknesses. And this is my worst: I am impatient and quick-tempered, even (and sometimes especially) with those I love the most. I have been struggling with learning to develop patience for years now, but have finally found myself making some headway. I will first, of course attribute this to God working in my heart. I am so blessed to be forgiven for my many failings and mistakes by a loving God, who actually helps me when I ask!

For those of us who are just beginning, though, sometimes it helps to see a wiser, more experienced woman to model behavior. And for that I am happy that we have.. TV. Yes, TV! I am talking about one of my favorite shows, 19 Kids and Counting. Michelle Duggar is always an inspiration, and one of the last episodes featured her handling a child tantrum with her well-known grace. I was so amazed by how gently and softly she spoke, and yet still managed to get (and keep) her children's attention. Plus, she actually trained them in this time, when I probably would have blown up.

I was so moved, I determined to harness this for myself, and for once it actually worked! I found myself for an entire week speaking softly to my kids, and gently guiding them. I am so surprised that I can actually do this, as speaking softly is certainly not characteristic for me.  My goal now is to keep up with this as best I can, and stay focused on not losing my temper so easily. Though I have not been as strong on this as I would like, I have still come closer than I would have ever thought was possible.

How do you keep your cool with your family, and is this something you were taught or had to "learn on the job?" I would love for you to share...

Next week: organizing your craft/ project/ work area!

Shelley

Resolutions to Reality

Well, it's almost the end of January, so it's time to review the resolutions I have made. I have said that I really think it helps to look over our resolutions regularly, to make sure we are still on track. This year I made my resolutions, and just a few days ago I stumbled upon this post at Passionate Homemaking, about mission statements. She links to Kat's ebook on creating mission statements. Also, in a similar post Lindsay linked to Ann's (at Harvest Ministry) 2011 Mission Plan. Now, some background- I have read various books on mission statements (I almost went into a business major) and have even incorporated similar ideas into my New Year's resolutions in the past. Still, these resources (which I am not even completely through yet!) has proven to be invaluable to me.

I set my resolutions according to the "SMART" principle, that is that goals should be: specific, measureable, attainable, realistic, and timed. This is meant to ensure that instead of vague, wishy-washy ideas, we make actual resolves (a root of resolutions) that we can achieve. So, here I am thinking I have a good practice set up, all proud of myself. (And this should have been the first sign that something was wrong, since pride is not something I should be taking lightly.) Unfortunately, when reviewing my goals from last year while making this year's, I had to rewrite some of them since they had not been achieved (and that should have been the second sign!) Going through Ann's workbook, however, I have made a large shift in my thinking.

I have rearranged my goals to really focus on what is important to me to do for this year, and to really work on what is important for me to accomplish, to fortify my weaknesses. I have a strong plan for my family, and for the mission work I want to do. If you feel that your resolutions aren't actually pushing and guiding you, or that your life is 'unbalanced' I highly recommend you check Ann's book out for yourself.

One of my favorite parts is the 'Alignment'- this helped me rather painfully become aware of how little progress I was making in some parts of my life. The things I was focusing on, which I felt were the weakest areas, are actually in better shape than other aspects. I feel much more equipped to create a plan that I can use to achieve my goals. I hope you are aiming true on your resolutions this year. Everyone needs help sometimes, so if you feel like these books could assist you, have a look at them. And, I always love to hear from you, so any tips you have for creating or implementing your resolutions please comment!

Shelley

Giving Back

I am so happy to share that I have gotten my Etsy shop fully up and running, and that I have sold my first item (a custom project.) I have had so much fun getting everything set up, and have decided to rework the charity process for my shop. Instead of the ten percent of sales price, I will be giving 40% - 50% of profits, on all items. I hope to incorporate an actual number into the individual listings by next month, so a customer can tell exactly how much money is going to charity.

I will still be choosing a monthly charity, for next month it will be Compassion. I really am being drawn to sponsoring a child, and I hope that this will allow me to do this. Also, since next month is my birthday, there will be some sales and giveaways! Please see Green Handcrafts for more information.

Thanks for sharing this new journey with me. Next up: making your "resolutions" a reality.

Shelley

Etsy shop sale!

I am offering a 10% discount in my etsy shop, from December 30th, until January 9th. Use coupon code newyear2011.

Back up!

Well, I was lucky enough to get an early present of a new computer from my mom. So even though both of my old computers are still gone, I am now back up and blogging! I am quite happy, and hope to share lots with you this week. For now, some links...

Help Others This Holiday

Compassion Child Survival Program

Unicef Gifts to Save Lives

Simplify this Season

Jill Savage at K-Love

Frugal Christmas Decorations at Passionate Homemaking

I hope that this ideas can bless your holiday season.

Shelley

It's been awhile...

I cannot believe I haven't posted in almost a month! I have been offline for a few weeks now, as my computer crashed! I have had to bounce around on family's computers to finish my school work, which is now finally done! I still have no access at home, though, so I expect to be scarce here for the next week or so :( 

For the holiday season, I would like to focus on some of the charities that I am supporting here. Please go thru the links to learn more. I hope to share some information on them myself once I am back up and running.

Hoping your season is merry,
Shelley

On My New Path

As I have shared, I feel moved to take this blog on a different path than the one it has been geared towards. I hope to share more about my journey through my faith, and some information I hope can bless you in your life. I have said that this decision has been difficult for me. By nature, I do not like to share very personal things, and talking about my faith especially is hard since I am so new to it. I do not feel completely capable in giving advice. When I read Titus 2, I wish to be like the younger woman who is able to have mentors! However, I feel that I have grown ever so slightly, and am working towards the future. One of my favorite scriptures is Philippians 3:16-

"Only let us live up to what we have already attained."

So, I plan on talking more about my faith (though I will not ignore the posting on homeschooling, organizing, and homemaking!) I will try to post with a minimum of apologies for my possible ignorance on a topic, and use as much scripture as I can. This way, where I am wrong you will have the benefit of God's infallible Word.

Thank you for walking this new path with me.

I am happy to share this at WFMW.

Shelley

a change again...

...away from the previous path. I decided to not continue the re-posting of my 30 days series. I did not feel that it was flowing with the new direction I am trying to take this blog. I will still post the new holiday ideas, in a "Holiday Help" mini-series to premiere after Thanksgiving. Also, still look foward to new recipes, which I will be sharing at Authentic Homemade starting this week.

I do apologize for not following through, I hope that you can understand. There are not many new ideas to share for the series, but I feel like I have many plans in the spirit of the new path I hope to take MAHM to. In this line, I will be introducing some new things through December, leading up to what I hope is an exicitng new year here.

Thank you for sharing this time with me.

Shelley

Making a gift-giving plan

originally posted November 2009

I have posted this early for those of you who do your gift preparations sooner rather than later. Although not the reason for the season, gift-giving is an integral part of our society's holiday celebrations. This can cause a major amount of stress if you're not careful. Especially considering the economy, which has probably reduced your holiday budget considerably, now it is more important than ever to

Make a Gift-Giving Plan

This one tip will make the season more enjoyable and relaxing. There are three easy points I recommend following:

• Start with a budget- allotting a certain amount for each person and commit to not going over this amount. This alone helped my stress levels so much, knowing that I could work harder to find a simple gift that would actually have meaning; rather than just buying what seemed like a great gift but was actually just plain pricey.

• Start writing down ideas now- whether you're planning homemade gifts or store-bought. This way, if you find a great deal at the store on something that would make a good gift, you can buy it. Likewise, for homemade gifts you'll have a way to make a timeline so you won't be making everything last minute.

• Start getting a gift area prepared- a place to keep everything organized. I just started this last year, in a desperate attempt to save myself from Christmas Eve-itis. You know, the thing only men are supposed to have- the syndrome where on Christmas Eve (or at 5:30 am on Christmas Day) you're still wrapping gifts. Avoid this at all costs- store/hide all gifts in the same area, and get out all your gift-wrapping paraphernalia and put it there too. Paper, boxes, tape, scissors, ribbons- all in one place, all with your gifts. Doesn't that sound nice?

I am happy to share this at Homemaker Monday, come back tomorrow for more great holidays tips!

Holiday System Day 6 - menu planning

This originally posted November 2009.

For me, the holidays are about one main thing... besides the family, friends and faith I've already talked about here... FOOD. If you follow along here, you'll have noticed that food is a major part of my life. The holidays are all about dinners, special family recipes, and cookies (yum!) The importance of these meals can be overwhelming, but this only means you have a great opportunity to

De-stress with Meal Planning

Holiday menus are often traditional, and troublesome. Family members who insist on certain dishes, friends with special dietary needs, and finally your own tight budget... What can be done to bring these different points together and allow you to have an easy, stress free season? Plan it out!

The meal on the holiday (either Thanksgiving or Christmas) is something that most families have a set way of doing. This doesn't mean that you can never change anything, though. Plan on what dishes you all like, allowing for any dietary needs that anyone has. Figure out how much can reasonably be made. Take into account how many stove burners you have, how big your oven is, and how long each dish will take to prep and cook. Is there any sides that can be made mostly ahead of time? These will save you a lot of sanity when it's only 5 hours to Christmas dinner with your large extended family. Trust me.

If you will be entertaining guests for other dinners, plan ahead some easy meals. I love dishes that are either crockpot, one-pot, or completely make-ahead. I'll be sharing some of my favorite meals that fall into these categories over the next few weeks.

Holidays are meant to be enjoyable, and reflective- how can you focus on joy and faith when you're up to your neck in side-dish stress? Don't do this to yourself- plan ahead!

I am happy to share this post at Homemaker Monday, visit for lots of great ideas.

Holiday System Day 5 - scheduling tasks

Yesterday I posted on the importance of having a plan for both little details and big projects for the holidays. This will keep you on track. For instance, to keep a tight budget I make almost all of my holiday gifts. Some of these need time to develop, such as my flavored vinegars, pickles or mustard. It's important that I schedule these, I have to start them early so that they are finished in time to give as presents. Knowing when everything needs to be done is critical, so for today we will be

Putting A Schedule Together

I have told you how disorganized I am by nature- if I didn't write all my holiday tasks done I would be making sandwiches for Thanksgiving dinner! 

The simplest way to fit your tasks into a schedule is the same way you would with any other to-do list.

1. First step- write in a due-date for each task: knowing the time when it needs to be accomplished will help you see which order things should be done in.
2. Second- allot a certain amount of time for each task. If something is a multiple-day task, make sure to account for this. Examples might include decorating, visiting family or friends, and preparing dinner.
3. Third step- put all the tasks into a schedule. I like using a monthly calendar for this, it allows you to see what is coming up for the next few weeks. Keeping one eye on the upcoming future is so important for sanity in the holiday season.

I hope these steps can help you simplify your planning (or just encourage you to plan if you're like me a few years ago!) Please share if you have any comments, questions or any advice of your own on holiday planning.

Holiday System Day 4 - plans...expanded

Today is a simple task- start filling out your holiday plan. Since this month we will cover Thanksgiving, we will focus on these tasks. Basically, you will be

Planning a Master To-do List

Think of all your tasks the way you would if you were writing a regular to-do list. I have heard this called "brain dumping" and I think the term applies well. Just grab a fresh paper (or word document) and start listing. Don't worry about editing- just get it all out. Big, time-consuming tasks (decorate, buy/ make all presents) and the small stuff (get stamps to mail cards, clean out guest rooms), it doesn't matter -put it all down.
Once you've written all your tasks down- relax! That's it- fitting these all into a schedule is a task for another day (namely, tomorrow.)

Holiday System Day 3- a plan

You'll see a recurring theme in today's post. I firmly believe in having a system for everything- and the more difficult or stressful a task is likely to be, the more I want my system. Put the holiday work on autopilot with

Your Holiday Season Plan

and this system will allow you to relax and enjoy the best parts of the season- family, friends, food and faith. oh yeah, and fun.

1. I already talked about household binders, so again, it's no surprise that I make my plan right in my binder. That way I can just flip the pages and add every task in my plan to my weekly schedule. But no matter where you write it (or even type it) the most important thing is to just
2. Start already! Stress around the holidays has one main cause: trying to fit 3 months worth of work into 1 or 2 weeks. This is just silly and unnecessary! Make a plan, even if at first it only includes where you'll be for the actual holiday. Slowly start writing in tasks you'll need to accomplish. I'll be covering this in more detail this week.
3. Don't forget the extra details- a menu for holiday dinners, a timeline for gift-giving and all important in today's time: a budget. Do not let this fall through the crack or you will be kicking yourself come January. Trust me.

Your task- just write down the most basic of plans- even just one or two sentences. You can go back and flesh in the details over the next week or so. Remember yesterday's post- this is supposed to make the season more enjoyable, not less. And if you use it properly, and keep breathing, a system really will help- I promise.

This week will be filled with ideas on helping make a holiday season plan, so check back in.

Holiday System Day 2 - a focus

(This was originally posted in October 2009)

Thanks for joining us on our way to a happier holiday season. Stress is the opposite of the spirit of joy that should shine through this season. Unfortunately, it seems stress is unavoidable at the holidays- or is it? I always felt like it was just part of the whole package to be worried, anxious, and an all-around mess. Having my kids made me want the best holiday ever- the first year with Big Boy we went to three Christmas Eve parties, and three family houses on Christmas. Ahhh!

It was crazy- obviously- and made what should have been pleasant just overwhelming. The next two years I slowly moved away from the old way of doing things, and plan to continue in this path. My first tip for you is the simplest, and yet might be the most difficult to add into your life. Not a specific task, but a goal of focusing on what the holidays are meant to be about:

remember the meaning of the season

This time should be about family, friends, and faith- whatever your faith is personally. All traditions have a holiday (remember it means Holy Day) in this season. Thanksgiving is more secular but can be very close to your own faith, as it is a time for giving thanks. Gratitude is the way to happiness.

For this point I recommend writing down a Holiday Focus paper. Include what in your life is important in this season, what you have to be thankful for. If you follow a faith, what does it say about this holiday time? Maybe add a specific meditation or focus statement that will sum up the true meaning of the season for you.

I'd like to invite anyone who wants to include a comment on their holiday season focus. If you have a blog and want to write a post on this, feel free to include a link in the comments below. Sometimes sharing ideas with others can add an influence and strengthen your own focus.

Be sure to come back tomorrow for more.

re-introducing... 30 days 'til the holidays... a system

I'm reposting my series from last year...

30 days 'til the holidays

This year there will be many brand-new tips on organizing, planning, and even more new recipes designed to get you ready for the holiday season. Just like last year, I will post once a day, Monday- Friday, for a month until Thanksgiving. I will share it again for the month from Thanksgiving- Christmas, and will include different recipes and tips each time!

I had so much fun with this last year, and the goal this year is the same... Having the holidays be stressful is upsetting, "but until the last two years when I had children, I thought it was inevitable. Well, it's not- even if you're a flaky disorganized mess by nature (like me!) The clue is to take it one step at a time, relax, and try to remember this time is supposed to by about enjoyment (and sharing joy, which grumpy, anxiety-ridden people don't do too well.)"

I hope you'll join me for this series. Tomorrow's post will be on how to remain focused on the true spirit of the holidays, even with all the responsibilities (ahem, stress). Here's to a great (and calm) holiday season!