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SpellQuizzer Review and Giveaway!

2010-03-16T15:00:00Z

My greatest joy in life are my children. To be blessed with them after years of "no", and now, to watch them grow, learn, and enjoy their childhood is an invaluable treasure! Oh, how much they have taught me!

Before I my children "entered" school, I researched homeschooling methods and supplies. Because of my early research, I felt better about tackling the challenge of educating my children at home. Although, I truly believe every parent educated their child at home, directly or indirectly. And whether we school at home or choose the public or private school route, parents are in charge of their children's education.

However, I'm not naive enough or crazy enough (lol) to think its solely the teacher's responsibility! Even with eager learners, slumps of frustration due to monotony and the urge to do anything--like uncontrollable urge stare out the window--can delay progress. Students need help and so do the teachers! And, that's okay!

Even with all my enthusiasm and my endless search, I know there are products out, that are new to me! Little gems, just waiting to be discovered and shared!

Much to my complete excitement, Dan of SpellQuizzer introduced me to his learning software. After trying it out, I must say, it rocks!

After a few steps; purchase, download, type in the word and record your voice saying the word, all your student needs to do, is choose a word list and begin! SpellQuizzer is that simple!

Pros:

1. The directions are easy to follow; to set and to quiz!

2. It allows the child to be a self-directed learner! (A trait that insures a lifetime of learning)

3. Words are can be deemed as "case sensitive". For example, Monday must be entered with a capital letter.

4. Word lists can be downloaded from the SpellQuizzer site.

5. With its easy export and import abilities, SpellQuizzer users can easily share their word lists with fellow students in person, or through the newly added community area on the site.

6. Spelling words can be from any curriculum, so its very flexible.

7. SpellQuizzer's built-in spellchecker recognizes both US and UK English spellings.

8. This product doesn't have to be just for children! Anyone learning new words, like a medical transcription student, can benefit from the program.

9. The learning software can be used as long as the student wants to learn! It's clear, concise methodology appeals to learners of all ages.

10. I can make dinner (without spilling ingredients on the spelling lists!!) and my children can practice and take pride in their independence!

11. The words can be entered into the program by using a playful character voice, to enhance the fun of learning. As my husband recorded his voice for play back, I realized how wonderful it will be for my children to have Daddy help--even when he's actually at work--his voice being comforting and encouraging--knowing Daddy is a teacher, too. (that's my favorite part!!)

Cons:

You may need to purchase a microphone for your computer. Many new models come with one. Thankfully, purchasing a microphone is easy and inexpensive--they can be found in most 'big box marts'.

Simply put, SpellQuizzer helps children learn their spelling and vocabulary words!

Dan is generously offering a Giveaway of SpellQuizzer! If you are a student or know a student (or you need practice) please, enter the SpellQuizzer Giveaway, by leaving a comment! On Tuesday, March 23, 2010, I will select a winner by using an automated number generator!

For an even closer look:

http://www.SpellQuizzer.com

http://www.spellquizzer.com/Spelling-Software-For-Homeschoolers.htm

http://www.spellquizzer.com/Spelling-Lists.htm

http://www.spellquizzer.com/MicrophoneBoost.htm

Don't forget-- leave a comment, so you have a chance to WIN SpellQuizzer!!! We're using ours daily, 'cause we LOVE it and more importantly my son is learning!

GOOD LUCK and happy learning!

Melinda

P.S. I like the learning tips, too. Very helpful!

My techy hubby loves it, too--The ease of the software is impressive!!

I need to use SpellQuizzer. I need practice, too. honestly, I rocked spelling tests as a kid, because I studied. I'm simply not a natural speller. As an adult, I rather practice on my own, too, than have my hubby call out words to me! lol

Shhhhhh!

2010-03-10T15:02:00Z

I've got a little secret.  Its very, un-school-ly. Very anti-learn. Very uncool, for a homeschooling Mama!

As a kid, I HATED going to the library! HATED!!!

It may be difficult to believe, considering I have books in nearly every room of our home.  Not to mention, how many times have I droned on about "READ! READ! READ" ? lol

I remember tutoring a young boy years ago. His mother wanted to help him, but really didn't feel as if she could. My answer? Read to him, everyday. Let him see the words as you read, whether its from a magazine, a comic book, store sign. Read to him, read with him, and let him read to you!

Wow, another tangent. How, very Melinda of me!

As I was saying, as a child, I hated going to the library. Shhhh! (Don't tell my Mom, I think her heart would break!) Its not the books fault. I like that part. I knew getting books meant we were going to read, and that was cool. It was the quiet part. Typically, it wasn't too difficult for me to honor the "SHHHHH" policy, my parents stressed the respect of others and cause and effect, too. So, I got it.

However, I did get thrown out of libraries twice. (i actually think it may have been three times, but since i don't readily remember why, it must have been so horrible that i had to block it out.) The first time, I was 6. I ran into my friend. He just happened to notice those brightly colored wedge foam blocks resembled a slide, if propped up. I tried to discourage him, after all, we were in a library. So, Shhhhhhh!

Well, he was far too convincing, and I was far too weak, to pass up an opportunity to play on a makeshift jungle gym! It didn't take too long, before I was being ushered out. Yikes. (he didn't! He was Not goofing off the precise moment I got busted!) That was embarrassing. Yeah, I was little, but I also KNEW better. My Mom wasn't too thrilled, either. Which I can't blame her. She was mad, too. In fact, I don't really recall seeing her face that shade of red, until then!

The second time, I was much older. In all fairness, I don't think I deserved that booting. If you put a large number of middle schoolers in a library, meant to work together and do research, noise will happen. I got sent back to my classroom, with classmates shocked that Miss Quiet (aka Goody Two Shoes), got booted. Yaknow, that librarian scared me.

Because of the quiet credo, libraries stressed me out. Sad, I know. The thing is, I'm the gal that knocks over displays and bumps into things that are seemingly nowhere near me. "I can't take you anywhere" phrase was written about me, donchaknow.

I'm not sure when I started to love libraries. But, I do. A building full of thinkers! Plum full of info and inspiration. Homeschooling doesn't have to cost a cent, if one fully utilizes the library. Which, not surprisingly, are the same reasons I love the internet!

In early elementary, my school had the best librarian ever. She was helpful, kind, and respectful. She could read anything and make it sound beautiful. She introduced me to Shel Silverstein, whom I love. (although I must say the poem "Melinda Mae" is gross.  I know I'm stubborn, but I would never eat an entire whale! hmmf!)

Ms.C would usher us IN and read to us. She was everyone's Grandma--old and quiet, with a scent of medicine and cookies radiating from her polyester-coated self. She was Extra old, really. Which probably meant she was 30. (funny, the older I get, the younger she seemed!) Ms. C read like my Mom did, with feeling and proper pauses. Just a bunched up ball of goodness, that made the pressure of silence, rather welcoming.

Dang, I totally lost my point. That happens to me frequently. This time, I'm blaming it on having to stop and go--laundry, lunch, dishes, homeschool direction, email catch-up. Yaknow, the usual. One day, I will video the day and watch it in fast-forward. I imagine its rather funny looking. Or, I could record each step, as I step, but that would add another step.  I dunno, if I'm stepping THAT much, I should be learning a new dance! Right?

So, my library experiences weren't all bad.

Truly, they're really ALL GOOD! I'm not nervous about being Shhh-ed into silence jail. Now, I'm nervous about my kids being Shh-ed! lol. A whole new type of torture! However, the joy I feel bringing my kids to libraries completely outweighs my silly concerns!

My children are eager to read, and be read to, to learn and to be entertained. I love it! They love it! Our librarians rock! Our late fees do not--but what better way to raise money for FREE resources! lol

Have you hugged your librarian, today? Don't know if ya should, really. Although I do recommend a hearty "Thank YOU!!!"

Melinda

P.S. My girl has been very sick, recently. She is showing signs of improvement today, thank God!   Now, I have a lot of catching up to do! ...did ya miss me? i missed you!! ;o)

"Mama said there'll be days like this."

2010-03-04T01:24:00Z

Not pictured: the laptop. Thats right folks, the laptop. (I just bowed. did you see it?)

"There'll be days like this," my mama said.

Melinda

P.S. song by The Shirelles. Eventually, I may reference a song from this decade. Maybe. Right after I focus on "Chicago"

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/?p=982

Kiss MY Boo-Boo

2010-03-02T20:05:00Z

When my girl was younger-- walking, climbing, and just finding her words--she fell off the chair, head first. I was sitting next to her, coffee in my right hand, her near my left. In one swift moment, as her sweet chubby-cheeked face plummeted, I caught her. Me, the bump-into-things-that-are-nowhere-near-me, woman, prevented her from banging her head, by grabbing her ankle and stopping her descent--her little nose two inches from the floor. If my husband hadn't gasped and congratulated me on my "good save", I may not have believed it! Either way, I was relieved to have caught her, mid-air. And, can you believe it, I didn't spill a drop of coffee!

Well, today, things didn't work out quite as nicely. My son and daughter were sitting in the recliner, my boy reading a book to us. Just as I turned from my paper, I saw Sophia leaning over the arm of the chair. Too far over! I said, "SOPHIA!" and reached to grab her. My wheeled office chair slid out from under my booty, and Sophia continued to fall, as I fell out of my chair, too.

My girl landed partially on her noggin'. Thanks to my effort, she didn't suffer a full impact. My toe did. Its kinda blue, now. But, hey, at least I broke her fall!

Here's the bad part. I lost it. A bit. You see, I spend a large portion of every day, telling her to sit down, and properly, in her chair. I realized today, that I've been an awful example! I sit crossed-legged or with one leg tucked under my other, nearly every time I sit. Even when I wear ball gowns. (k, thats not true. I dream of pretty dresses.) However, if she DID sit like me, it would be an improvement. She typically prefers to sit half on-half off.

I suppose, considering her sit habits, she's lucky to not repeat this scenario daily. But, yaknowhowitis, any injury is too much! Hmmff!

The thing is, I got mad. Moreover, its a RULE in my home to NOT get mad over accidents. Because, DUH, they're accidents. I scolded her, as I held her and checked her for bumps. And I teared up, too. I just couldn't help myself--she had scared me sillier and my foot and toe were hurting, too.

I calmed down and regained my Mommy senses. And cuddled her. And asked my daughter, "Do you know why Mommy got upset?"

"Because, I'm your best girl and you don't want me to get hurt." she answered.

Well, she's right. I reaffirmed that I wasn't mad at her accident, but that she MUST listen to safety rules!

She understood. And I understood. But, uggh, daggit, I hate it when My girl gets hurt.

And, now, I have a numbing toe, reminding to be calm, always help, always forgive, and always learn. Mommy makes mistakes, too. Thankfully, snuggles and apologies, help make Boo-boos better!

I love being a Mommy. But, wow, can it hurt!

Melinda

p.s. Oh great, Pretty Poison's "Catch Me, I'm Falling" taken over my Green Day lovin' self. Help!!

I Chipped A Tooth Poppin' A Wheelie

2010-03-01T15:36:00Z

So, I can't say too much, when my kids push their limits. Well, okay, I did try to bubble wrap them, but I kept getting distracted by the intense urge to snap-squish the air out of the plastic. (Come on, admit it, have you passed up an opportunity to Pop those bubbles? I think not!)

My girl said, "Look!" Lucky for her, I was already looking. I have a habit of doing that when I see my daughter take a running leap towards the not-bolted-to-the-ground slide!

Naturally, my boy had to join in the fun.

Kinda makes me wonder, what do they try when I'm NOT looking?

I'm not sure I want to know!

Here's hoping you have a great week, with fun! And, please, pop some bubbles, or wheelies, for me!

Melinda

Pet Store Explore

2010-02-28T15:51:00Z

Yaknow, I love Saturdays. For many reasons, one of which involves extra sleep. Can you believe it, after my husband works all week and more, so I may be a Stay at Home Mommy, he lets ME sleep in on Saturdays?! In all fairness, I let him sleep-in on Sundays, but still. Mommy getting real SLEEP is invaluable, allowing me to refuel for the days to follow. Although, if I didn't stay up past a reasonable person's bed time, I may not need to sleep-in. I dunno. It works, one way or the other.

However, sometimes I wake up to my children telling me all about the cool things they did with Daddy, while I was asleep. Then, I feel pouty, knowing I missed out. Thankfully, that emotion doesn't last long, because its replaced with the giddy excitement of my children's retelling of their morning.

Last weekend, my hubby took the kids to a pet store. It may seem rather blasé, but my children love animals so much, they may as well been in Disney World. Its so cute. I love animals, too. (Exactly, why we can't have a giraffe in the backyard, I don't know. Seems like a perfectly reasonable request to me!) One day, if my children bring home a stray cat without asking first, I can't get too mad, because I did the same thing to my folks! But, I digress, again.

Thankfully, Hubby took some pictures to share. He and I are camera nuts. Or, we're just nuts. Wait, its probably both. anywho.

Miss S giggled a long time over the Kissing Fish, sweet talkin' its reflection.

Is it just me, or do these fish look as though they're trying to make themselves look like a larger fish? And if so, does this mean the Fish were scared of the ooooo-ing excitement of my babies? Or, are they being bullies?

Hey, where's Nemo? (love that movie!!)

Its so ugly, its cute!!! I want a lizard!! uh, just not THAT one. Sorry, Mr. Iguana.

I'm hiring these watery friends to do my windows.

(see the watermark? Hubby just taught me how...I like it. Mostly. Its visually distracting, so I may just brave the open seas of the internet, without copy protection. verdict, out)

Now, I'm not a fan of rats and mice, but his woeful pleading, makes me want to snuggle him. Its wrong. My cat would, uh, decide he's been rewarded. Sorry, buddy, you're safer hanging over the edge.

"Love me, love me, pretend that you love me" lyrics are floating in my noggin, now.

Much like my kids, I do want one of each critter. And a monkey, to keep them all in order, 'cause goodness knows, I don't have time to keep them ALL in line! lol So, why not settle on a puppy, right? Ooo, and a bird. A small bird. Big birds, make me nervous, unless he's buddies with Elmo.

Yeah, I may have missed the magic of my children's thrill, but at least I have the photos to encourage me not to sleep my Saturday morning away..

I hope you're enjoying your day!

Melinda

P.S. Lyrics from the Cardigans' song "Love Fool". It will be in my head all day, no doubt!

On Your Mark, Get Set, ADD!

2010-02-26T16:07:00Z

Out of utter desperation to revive the derailed school day, I searched my memories and google. I remembered one of my amazing, super duper, fantastic, all-educators-should-be-like-her teachers. Yeah, she was THAT good. Although I was in 3rd grade, I knew whether a teacher cared for her students. And in this case, I don't mean, she just cared for the well-being of her students, she actually sincerely, wanted us to learn! Seriously, when students are shown the "can do" spirit, most will rise to the occasion. Right? M'kay, that was a departure from my original point. But, since when does THAT stop me from writing a post? lol.

Any.who.

I heard a rather disappointing amount of sighs and whines and general complaints of school sorrow, yesterday. As I sat, daydreaming of my beloved 3rd Grade Teacher, I remembered her math drills! She created a game of multiplication facts. To progress to the next challenge, each student had to answer all math problems correctly, with only a minute to complete the quiz. I tell ya, the whole class gobbled it up.

So, needing to refresh my son and still review math, I started writing out addition problems. Example: 0 +1 = ____ , up to 0 + 12 = ____. Yup, little e is way past the Zero Plus, but I wanted to use that as a spring board. I made more quiz sheets, 1's, 2's, 3's, etc...Once all addition problems are passed correctly and, at or under a minute, I will introduce Subtraction, followed by Multiplication, and ending with Division.

The important key to this exercise is a stopwatch, for easy time recording. I pouted a bit, because I remembered the one we have, no longer works. (We still have the watch, so it can be taken apart, for curiosity's sake) Not wanting to give up on the idea altogether, I searched online and found a free online stopwatch! How cool is that?

The stopwatch drills were the only highlight of the school day, because Ethan LOVED it!

Hey, look at it this way, if I hadn't been subjected to the painful Ugghs, I wouldn't have recalled Mrs. Duncan (its not libel, when its positive, right? lol) and her snazzy teaching, which led to the start of our own math drills!

There is ALWAYS a bright side. Even if it lasts twenty minutes, its worth it!

Please, have a lovely weekend. Because. I. Said. So. And, I'm feeling bossy.

Melinda

P.S. i still love you, Mrs. Duncan, where ever you are!!!

P.S.S. she was so cool, when she went to Hawaii on vacation, she sent all of her students a postcard! We felt so special!

http://www.online-stopwatch.com/full-screen-stopwatch/

(i may introduce this in another way..."Kids, how fast can you clean up your toys? Wanna find out?" ooo, i'm evil.)

Homeschool Check List, Beep, Beep, Beep

2010-02-25T20:48:00Z

Alert! Alert! System DOWN! Holy moly its been difficult to get BOTH of my kids to focus today! I got up this morning, made breakfast, packed my Hubby's lunch (yes, I do it. because, I like to) and sat down, writing out the day's To-Do's for my son and daughter. I was on hyper-drive.

Notice, I said 'WAS". 'Cause, UGGH, where did my children's motivation go? Phooey! Some days are just out of sync, I suppose. It doesn't mean, however, that I have tossed up my hands (even though I really felt like it) and wrote it off as a "teacher work day". Oh no, buddy. I'm sticking it out. Yup--how disappointing for my kids, huh? lol

Seriously, I did the run laps thing, the recess thing, the deep breathe thing. And, well, they're still plugging reluctantly away, as I am typing this. Huh.

Sure, I do sometimes cut my losses and rearrange a day here and there, but I think its a dangerous habit. For me anyway. I don't want to have school on holidays. yaknow? lol

Anywho. just had to vent a bit. Ever have a day like that?

On a positive note, completely unrelated to homeschool, I have discovered the broken thingyamagig on the coffee maker (that I've been fighting with all week) is completely irrelevant. This morning as I wrote out my goals, I sipped coffee. And for that moment, all was right in the world.

Hope you're day has been a lovely warm-fuzzy one!

Melinda

I need to push pause...

2010-02-25T00:46:00Z

http://www.wordlesswednesday.com/?p=975

Melinda

Panini Shamnini

2010-02-23T15:21:00Z

In my home, we like our sandwiches toasted. Not with lots of butter or olive oil, a smidge on occasion, but mainly dry, high heat. To get a faster, crisp sandwich, similar to a panini press, I layer my cast iron pans. Once the sandwich is prepared, I put it on the stove top, in a large cast iron skillet, place a piece of aluminum foil on top of the sandwiches and then place a small cast iron skillet directly on top of the foil. The weight of the cast iron does the pressing, although pressing down, for a thick sandwich does speed up the process.

This works beautifully with heartier breads, as well as the typical loaf of sliced sandwich bread. Although, with the thinner slices, the sandwich will be quite squished--which is great if you're trying to hide the contents from a picky eater. (sneaky Momma, huh?)

Thanks for swinging by,

Melinda

http://www.tammysrecipes.com/node/3764 for more tips. and some adorable baby pictures!! ))

Old, Old, Old Fish

2010-02-22T17:39:00Z

In our massive collection of library books, little e stumbled across a very unusual picture. "What is that, Mommy?" As I am prone to do, I responded, "Read it and see what it says!"

Ethan is a new reader but his endless need for information naturally encourages his reading! Which I totally love. Seriously, my son wakes up asking questions and goes to sleep asking questions. I love his curiosity, he gets from Mommy and Daddy. However, he certainly has more than a double-dose of "What-How-Why" running through his veins.

Wanting to support his learning efforts can be rather mentally draining and, conversely, spiritually fulfilling. It is impossible to over-look the world's wonders with a little one continually searching for answers, creating theories, and literally jumping up and down over the cool thing he just discovered.

And, being a lover of nature and science, too, I nearly jumped up and down over the picture! I wondered how I managed to miss this information, until now. As I mentioned in a previous post, we are studying fish. It wasn't something I had planned, but I decided to follow his interests and build from there, which is easy (lucky for me) since he wants to learn it! Enthusiasm helps teacher and student, yaknow-- fueling the fire.

After reading about the ancient fish in a book, I dived in on-line and searched for links about the Coelacanth:

Probably the only site you really need, because it covers so much and offers so many links. It even has a print out craft to do!

http://www.dinofish.com/

http://www.conservapedia.com/Coelacanth

online coloring:

http://www.thecolor.com/Coloring/Coelacanth.aspx

print out and color. (you must search within site, it is there. i couldn't get the direct link to the picture to work.)

http://thecoloringspot.com/

Even if you're not a "fish person" this information is interesting, I promise! So, check it out and share it with someone! Or, maybe I'm Robo-Nerd. Anywho.

Have a great week!

Melinda

"Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all."

Aristotle

Here, Fishy, Fishy, Fishy

2010-02-18T17:06:00Z

Apparently, little e isn't the only one dreaming of fish!

Gibson had his paw on the book, but moved it by the time I ran and got the camera. Perhaps, I should wear the camera around my neck, all day? Or, better yet, I'll wait 'til my kids are teenagers, with cool guests coming over for a visit, THEN look like a tourist in my own home? But, I digress.

I sincerely wonder, if a tank full of fish would survive with this family member around! Either Sir Cat would jump in, or scoop them out, or knock it over, just to watch the fish flip a few times before he dined on them. I'm not sure if thats a life lesson I want to introduce to my kids! lol

Isn't it lovely how I'm already thinkin' up ways to embarrass my kids? Its just wrong, huh? Oh, the things I do to amuse myself, seemingly knows no end!

Melinda

P.S. ooo,ooo, ooo! I know, a camera around my neck, blacks socks that go up to my knees, with white shoes and a hot pink moo-moo! yeah, THAT oughta do it!

Fishy Love

2010-02-17T19:17:00Z

For Valentine's Day I made cards for my children. A butterfly for Sophia and a fish for Ethan.

Ethan is all about fish these days. My little guy doesn't do anything half way. So, when I say he is all about fish, he is all fish, all day. He dreams about fishing, cooking fish, owning an aquarium, and on and on.

I am thankful Ethan is such an enthusiastic, eager, learner. He wants to know as much as possible, all day long. It can be difficult to keep up with him! No joke.

He was thrilled with the heart fish I made him and a bit sad that he hadn't thought to make me a Valentine. So, early next morning he surprised me with:

ain't it cute? i wuv it, i do, i do!!

So, as we learn, I will share links I've found so you may get fishy with us

You know, I remember watching my Dad gut a fish when I was little. As gross as it was, I loved it, because I was seeing something I'd never seen before and getting Daddy-Time! It is one of my favorite memories of us together; the warm Carolina sun, the shiny scales of the fish, the weirdness of the cold staring eyes, and the taste of dinner! Yeah, I was a tomboy, but ya probably already figured that one out!

Melinda

ANGLER FISH info:

http://www.thesea.org/TheSea/deep_sea_angler_fish.html

http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/anglerfish.html

http://web.ukonline.co.uk/aquarium/pages/anglerfish.html

http://www.seasky.org/deep-sea/anglerfish.html

angler art:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Anglerfish-mask/

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=19968883d1a2c916a86547e0fb689a3c&topic=59640.0

angler coloring:

http://www.coloring-pictures.net/drawings/fish/anglerfish.php

http://thecoloringspot.com/ocean-life/ocean-coloring-pages-1.html

angler video: (please, screen these first before sharing with little ones, some may be scared of the images.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqJzuc9pE00

(more than just anglers, but some equally odd and amazing fish)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BU7dD-4sbKM&feature=related

forgive me, i think this song is fun! yes, about Anglers!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9t7E4amWDqI

Trash Spill

2010-02-17T01:02:00Z

Ever have a trash bag nearly stuffed to the rim? Ever have a trash bag stuffed to the rim and then leak all over the clean kitchen floor, as its being carried outside to the big, outdoor trashcan? Its sticky. And goodness knows, what that trail of spots on the floor is anyway..all you know for sure is, its got to be cleaned. Immediately, stop whatever else you were doing, and clean, clean, clean. (images of my babies tracking through unknown substances and possibly contaminating themselves with the Ewww, makes me EWWWW.)

Solution? Leave the trash bag inside the garbage container, carry/slide/roll on wheels the can outside to the main trash bin. THEN, remove stuffed trash bag and toss it directly into the bin. Before returning it to the still clean kitchen, take a garden hose and swish the container out. Once inside, sprinkle a bit of baking soda into the bottom of can, then add fresh bag. Voila! No more toxic waste spill trailing through the house.

Or, double-bag your trash. Or, buy super pricey trash bags, so you may not suffer from possible leaks and breaks. But, I'm way too frugal for that! (always wondered, too, doesn't the fancier/stronger plastic, take longer to biodegrade? dunno)

Melinda

p.s. hmmm.... should i admit that my husband refuses to let me take the trash out lol ?

http://www.tammysrecipes.com/node/3757 for a wonderful collection of tips, recipes, and warmth!

What Is Love?

2010-02-14T01:01:00Z

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, the kids and I have made cards and cookies. Little e wanted to know if we had school tomorrow and Sophia answered him, "No, Ethan, 'cause Valentines is special!" Honestly, I rather them NOT be soooo excited about missing school, but I remember the 'brain drain' and the need for a true mental vacation, so my disappointment lasted only a moment.

Curious about their 'take' on love, I asked them about it. And, then promptly said, "WAIT! Don't say anything, yet, I want to write it down!" I can be a confusing parent, huh?

Once seated and secretly hoping my fingers could accurately fly over the keys, I asked, "Sophia, what is love?"

"Love is someone loves you, " she answered.

Next, I asked her, "What does it feel like?"

Without hesitation, 4 year old Sophia said, "Actually feels like being happy! Love means happy!"

"Who do you love, Sophia?" I asked, hoping beyond hope, she wouldn't forget to say Mommy. (yes, I'm just that fragile, sometimes. and silly.)

  Nearly singing, she replied, "Everyone in this house and Malik, too. There's so much people I love, I can't say it!"

Lastly, I asked her, "What is marriage?"

"I don't know what marriage is! Is marriage a place where you get married? And probably get money. Love is about care."

I thanked Sophia for her insights and asked Ethan,  "What is love?"

My son said, "Love is amount of friendship and treatment and no bad stuff."

Trying hard to not correct his wording, the faulty word-nerd educator I am, I continued, "What does love feel like?"

Ethan said, "Its good. And its sweet and its yummy to eat," he giggled, hearing sister gasp.  "And it makes you feel good. And there's a lot of it. And it feels good to be around it."

Lastly, I asked, "What is marriage?"

"Amount of friendship and getting together."

I must say, I am totally loving their answers! I hope to ask them every year and record it, too. Just to see how, and if, their answers change as they grow.  As for me, I ask myself that question often. And all those big mysterious life questions because, apparently, "I think too much."

Seriously, thinking about love's causes and effects intrigues me. And awes me. And bores me. And perplexes me. And amazes me. Its Love. Its complicated to explain, yet simple to feel, right? It is friendship, and good and it certainly feels good to be around it.

I think love is powerful. Love is deceptively perfect and easy, in new love. And, blatantly hard work in old love. Because, never-ending love takes dedication and flexibility.  And, the willingness to view life from a "WE" perspective.

Perhaps, if "things" look stark ,and a bit too real with work, its time to put on those rose-colored glasses--you know the ones, the spectacles that auto-perch on new love's face.

And love for my children, I have no idea how to put it into words. Other than, I hurt, when they hurt; laugh when they laugh; and adore them, even when they're at their worst!

Love. Love. Love. What does it mean to you?

Happy Valentine's Day,

Melinda

1.) "When you are in love you can't fall asleep because reality is better than your dreams." --Dr. Seuss

2.) "First of all, love is a joint experience between two persons — but the fact that it is a joint experience does not mean that it is a similar experience to the two people involved. There are the lover and the beloved, but these two come from different countries. Often the beloved is only a stimulus for all the stored-up love which had lain quiet within the lover for a long time hitherto. And somehow every lover knows this. He feels in his soul that his love is a solitary thing. He comes to know a new, strange loneliness and it is this knowledge which makes him suffer. So there is only one thing for the lover to do. He must house his love within himself as best he can; he must create for himself a whole new inward world — a world intense and strange, complete in himself. Let it be added here that this lover about whom we speak need not necessarily be a young man saving for a wedding ring — this lover can be man, woman, child, or indeed any human creature on this earth.

Now, the beloved can also be of any description. The most outlandish people can be the stimulus for love. A man may be a doddering great-grandfather and still love only a strange girl he saw in the streets of Cheehaw one afternoon two decades past. The preacher may love a fallen woman. The beloved may be treacherous, greasy-headed, and given to evil habits. Yes, and the lover may see this as clearly as anyone else — but that does not affect the evolution of his love one whit. A most mediocre person can be the object of a love which is wild, extravagant, and beautiful as the poison lilies of the swamp. A good man may be the stimulus for a love both violent and debased, or a jabbering madman may bring about in the soul of someone a tender and simple idyll. Therefore, the value and quality of any love is determined solely by the lover himself.

It is for this reason that most of us would rather love than be loved. Almost everyone wants to be the lover. And the curt truth is that, in a deep secret way, the state of being beloved is intolerable to many. The beloved fears and hates the lover, and with the best of reasons. For the lover is forever trying to strip bare his beloved. The lover craves any possible relation with the beloved, even if this experience can cause him only pain." --Carson McCullers

Be A Cheap Date for Valentine's Day

2010-02-12T20:35:00Z

Yaknow what's cool about being sentimental and frugal at the same time? Its always the heart-felt, lovey dovey, thought-driven, gifts that woo me. Woo, woo, woo. Yeah, that's outta place, but the word "woo" is just fun to say, isn't it?

What's even cooler, is the current economy demands frugality with flair! Die hard frugalists are secretly giggling amongst each other, as we quietly observe the masses begin to rejoice in their own savy saving and spend thrift ways. A great amount of pleasure can be derived by stretching one's dollar to equal two, right?

But, here ya go, another Heart Holiday approaches, and we are bombarded with roses and rings and chocolate and promises of never-ending love. Hold up, before you go thinking, I'm against roses and rings and chocolate, please know, THAT would be impossible! Unless, I suddenly become allergic to beauty and pampering. What I AM saying is, the best gifts are FREE! Free hugs, free snuggles, free laughs, free sunshine! yaknowwhatimean?

So, as I ponder the magic of love and the work involved, I came up with a few free love ideas for Valentine's Day. Apply as you wish!

1. Let your sweetheart sleep in on a day off. That means, ignore the clock completely and let your honey-bunny dream. If that means, you had to cover all morning duties until lunch time (or after), do it, with a smile on your face.

2. Stop reminding your Honey how wonderful you are, SHOW them instead! Actions!! Actions!! Actions!! (feel free to interpret that any. way. you. want!)

3. Yaknow that habit that drives you crazy? That quirk that you swear, if you see it just one more time, you're gonna reach over and smack your beloved on the forehead or run away screaming? Perhaps you have more than one thing that perturbs you to no end? Well, let. it. GO!

Chances are, YOU have something that drives your Other crazy, too! So, unless its sincerely harmful to one's health, LET. IT. GO. Letting go means; stop asking for them to stop the behavior, stop wincing when they quirk-it, don't hold your breath, don't look away. Instead just go about your business, secretly chuckle to yourself, and move on. Your sweetie isn't TRYING to drive you nuts, right?

So, let irks go. Because if you do, they will, too. And both of you, will feel lover-dover by the end of the day. yaknow?

4. Confide in a close friend. Let out your gripes, your concerns, and grumps out to a friend you can trust to see you through it, and encourage you to hold on, and remind you of brighter times ahead. Good friends are important to a good relationship.

5. Do you ever feel like your primary method of communicating with your Honey is via email or text? Well, if it is, try a little less shop--bills, errands, and project reminders--and a little more footsies. (I am so guilty of this one! put me in time out, would ya?)

So, you see, it is a rather short cheap list, but frugalists agree, quantity does not speak to quality. Love doesn't cost anything, although it does involve invaluable sacrifice. Love is work, so roll up your sleeves and break some sweat

However, if roses and rings and chocolate and promises of never-ending love, arrive at your doorstep, scoop it up, love it up, and hold it as long as love allows!

Happy Valentine's Day,

Melinda

p.s. woo

Guess--What's Missing Part 2

2010-02-10T17:11:00Z

The kids and I put birdseed out during the first big snow of the season. The birds were so happy. We were happy. Until our cat, Gibson, decided to take out his competition with a 'gift' for us on the doorstep. Knowing our cat is a skilled hunter, I should have known better. But honestly, it had been over a year since he treated us with anything bigger than an insect, so I seriously thought we were in the clear. Ah, yes, but my cat, is a cat, is a cat. My bad. Poor little tweet-tweet, so pretty and yet, so very, very dead!

Well, the second snow soon greeted the old snow, further freezing the tail feathers of nearly every creature. I wanted to fed the birds again, and not my cat, again. So, I opened a second story window and tossed birdseed on top of the porch roof. And, waited. Soon, birds gathered, chomping down on the seed.

My kids and I put seed out there regularly now. Our fine feathered friends, love it. And the kids and I love it too, because although we love Gibson, he IS well-fed. He doesn't need to eat the state bird, now does he?

What's missing? Nope, not a snowman, although that was a might fine guess.

1. Beautiful birds. Fast, beautiful birds that flew off the roof quicker than I could click my camera.

2. Crumbled pieces of stale garlic bread somewhere in between the layers of snow. Apparently, the birds were hungry, but not hungry enough for homemade garlic biscuits.

3. Besides belonging in a Tim Burton film, the tree had sound. Lots of sound. When I opened the windowpane and screen, I heard this LOUD fluttering and flapping. Music. Too far away to catch with my beloved camera, more birdies than I could count, busy with a drumming beat--that I suppose, was meant to generate heat . I wish you could've heard it, it was quite impressive.

So, until my cat figures out how to climb on the roof, we have found a way to help feed Big Bird's cousins. 'Cause its the right thing to do..as long as it ain't garlic flavored!

Thanks for 'flying' by,

Melinda

http://tellmethursday.com/tell-me-thursday-february-11-2010/

Dirty No More

2010-02-09T15:51:00Z

Just once, just ONCE, I'd love to make a meal for my family without completely destroying my kitchen. Every surface is splattered with something, every dish and fork and spoon and knife and appliance is dirty, dirty, dirty. Okay, perhaps, I'm exaggerating. But, seriously, not by much. I've watched those cooking shows, where the chefs are judged by the tidiness of their station. Uh, hullo, I couldn't win those points if my life depended on it. Its sad really. Is it really possible to cook from scratch and not make a mess? How does one clean as one goes anyway? Dontcha just have to re-clean again once the dish is complete? And again, after the folks finish eating? Good grief, how is anyone supposed to step foot outside of the kitchen? huh? huh? huh?

This frustration with myself lead to my favorite new kitchen tip; hide the dishes. Nope, I don't mean, hide the dirty dishes, I mean, hide the CLEAN ones. Lemme explain. For years, I thought having a surplus of plates and bowls and glasses at my fingertips, made prep time, cleaning time and storing time easier. Its difficult to unlearn a habit, but after close inspection and testing a theory, I've discovered having the minimal amount of dish ware readily available, is the far better option.

I moved extra dishes into another rarely used cabinet. This way, if we have company, I have easy access to the supplies needed. (Or, I break, yet ANOTHER glass!) I left a meal and half worth's of plates and bowls in the main go-to cabinet. Before I used the dishwasher twice (sometimes three times) a day, and I do now, too. The primary difference is, the dishes aren't as crowded, leaving more room for the detergent and water to due its duty! Also, I don't have as many dishes waiting to be clean, so visually its more appealing, and thankfully, storing takes half the time!

Perhaps, I will never master the clean-cook, but at least I have a 'hold' of the dishes now!

Swing by http://www.tammysrecipes.com/node/3751
to enjoy more kitchen tips!

I'm hoping to make cinnamon rolls today. My kitchen may never recover! Wish me luck!

Melinda

Let It Snow, Again?!

2010-02-05T03:12:00Z

We are getting another big snow! Sometime tonight, the flakes shall begin their decent and join the leftover, too cold to melt preexisting Snow. Seems many folks are just plain fed up with the 'white stuff' in general. Hearing the irritation, makes me sad, because I'm Snow's number one fan! My adoration of the fluff, overrides the inevitable work and mess of melted flakes in our basement.

I suggested to the Clouds (in an effort to better represent their original appeal), that the delicate, sparkly bits of heaven, try something new; Behave. As sweetly mischievous as it tends to be, the Snow Clouds only winked and grinned, making no commitment to my pleas of reason. In order to be welcomed with open arms in the future, the Snow must comply, if only a little...right?

We'll see.

So, if you wake up tomorrow and the roads are clear, the power is on, and people toss out their shovels--for lack of need, you'll know immediately, the Snow listened! Behaving in spite of itself; coating only the hills, and yards, while simultaneously making speed bumps and ramps for sledders.

Please, my dear Lovelies near and far, if you're in snow, make a snowman for me, it will make you smile-I promise! (as long as your cheeks don't freeze in the process, but we're not going there! lol) Then, defrost yourself with some hot chocolate! See, I've got a head start!

Forgive me, I can't get on board with this whole hatin' the snow, I've got snow bunny in my blood!!

Wishing you fun, regardless of the weather,

Melinda

Loud Math

2010-01-28T20:27:00Z

I love IXL Math. Love, love, LOVE it!! The questions grow increasingly difficult as my little guy answers correctly. When predetermined goals are met, my son delights in the virtual award page! On the teaching side of things, it offers complete feed back on my little guy's progress including hours spent, skills mastered, skills needing improvement.

Initially, the only pitfall, and I hesitate to even label it as such, was lack of audio. All questions, must be read. So, learning to read children, may feel frustrated when needing extra help, particularly if they know the answer. But, I quickly changed my mind, viewing it as a positive chance to practice reading skills, while doing math. See? Wasn't I silly to view it as a weakness?!

Well, recently the reading issue, became a non-issue. IXL announced added audio! And, yaknow, now I love IXL Math even more!! Why? The audio isn't automatic! One must click on a button, in order to hear the sentence! Little e has made some big leaps in his reading skills lately, so I'm not allowing him to rely solely on the audio.

I tell him to read the sentence out loud. If he struggles with a word or it doesn't sound right to him or simply to ensure his accuracy, he may click the audio button AFTER he reads it the first time. Naturally, if he needs extra help, whether it is about the actual math problem or reading, I'm readily available

I love IXL math. But, I said that already, didn't I?

Happy Learning!

Melinda

P.S. I stumbled upon IXL Math through a homeschooling co-op. Deep discounts for learners! What's not to love?!

http://www.ixl.com/

http://www.homeschoolbuyersco-op.org/