Yard Work

Well, since I had procrastinated the yard work, I finally went out and did some. I worked hard today. The front yard was overgrown. I've hedged, raked, pulled lots of weeds. I am exhausted! Yet, I am happy that the much needed work got done.

Homeschool thoughts

As the next semester approaches, I have used the amblesideonline.org to guide my literature for the children. I have used an eclectic style with the kids for years, but I believe that the philosophy of Charlotte Mason has been my outlook regarding most education. My eldest daughter loves to read so much, and I hope to go to the library this week. I've written her an index card of the books I would like her to read before summer. I've done the same for my son. I'm considering moving my son up to a higher science, to challenge him more, and give his brain more to think about.

I'm trying to consider that I may not necessarily need more organized things, but more priorities to accomplish. We will be printing out our charts to keep us on a good schedule, and it helps to see some progress on them.

I really like the Abeka books for science. They are so interesting and all my children like them. I would like to incorporate some character based learning into our day. Since the town near us has a big Medieval Fair in February, I would love to do some unit studies on that this year too.

Vasilopeta

Ok! Success! I made my first Vasilopeta bread! It looks great. but, it has a hole in it! LOL ;) That's because I didn't have a regular round pan, so I used a bundt pan. I think it will be delicious. I can't wait to see who will get the piece with the coin!

Our oaks are falling leaves like there is no tomorrow. They don't just fall in autumn, but many times through the year. It's alittle annoying, but in the summer the shade they give is important.

Dear daughter and I were just looking at photos yesterday, and I was thinking...gee we need to start to scrapbook these. I don't really know when we will make the time!

A brisk morning in December

What a beautiful morning! Brisk weather for us here in Florida! I met a fellow crafter...she makes wonderful quilts and table runners! She's designed a fantasic primitive runner with black crows, all hand-made. Here is her shop- http://www.etsy.com/shop/CypressHollowGifts. Her items would make lovely gifts for any time of the year.


Also, I have been thinking alot about music, since I love to sing, play, and hear it! We love to hear lots of different types, and lately I just love Orla Fallon, who plays the harp as she sings. It is unique, to hear a type of music that is so much from the heart, a folk style, yet elegant! She with the other Celtic Women inspire my soul, and I appreciate their work greatly!

I hope to get started on some new projects soon! Have a blessed and Safe Happy New Years!

A Time to enjoy

We've been enjoying Christmas with making crafts, baking, and reading wonderful stories. Tonight we read The Wooden Doll by Susan Bonners. It was a good book. Also, our family always reads a book called "Babouska" retold by Arthur Scholey. This is a family tradition for us, which we love. I've enjoying caroling lots. My son & I have been trying to practice piano more. So, we have been busy, with at home activites for the family. I am looking forward to baking the Vasilopeta for St. Basil's Day.
Here's an explanation of this celebration at Highlights-
http://www.highlightskids.com/Stories/NonFiction/NF1205_santainCyprus.asp

Have a blessed, safe, and Happy New Year!

Welcome Christmas!
We are in the christmas spirit! We've decked our halls, and enjoyed lots of time together preparing gifts and crafts. The weather has been warm and nice to get out and play. I hope to hear from some friends soon. I'm excited about my new store online, at www.etsy.com/shop/genevieve1642

Have a blessed holiday season!

December

I'm trying to get into a "Christmas Spirit", but it hasn't happened yet. We are involved in choir, ballet for little one, art projects at home, crafts, and then there is just trying to keep up the house. Right at this time, everything in my life seems strange, and different, and difficult. We have so many nice things, and I usually thank God for even my hot water in the shower. Yet, I have a struggle with a few problems, and they are like bricks on my back. I will get up tomorrow, and try to find a way to be calm, and still get some things done.

I have been alittle more happy, with my craft projects that I plan to work on. They seem to give me something else to do, besides chores. Also, I found a really great movie on Netflix about Greece, and it's history & archeology. My oldest daughter and I plan to watch it together!

This week one of the reverends at our church reposed. So, we are all alittle sad, and yet, thankful that his suffering is over. So, maybe after a little time of reflection and mourning, we will all be able to have a joyful Holy Season.