wretchedheathen

Favorite Riddle

2012-01-26T08:48:00.001-06:00

You are driving along in your car on a wild, stormy night, it's raining heavily, when suddenly you pass by a bus stop, and you see three people waiting for a bus:

An old lady who looks as if she is about to die.
An old friend who once saved your life.
The perfect partner you have been dreaming about.

Which one would you choose to offer a ride to, knowing very well that there could only be one passenger in your car?

This is a moral/ethical dilemma that was once actually used as part of a job application.

* You could pick up the old lady, because she is going to die, and thus you should save her first; * or you could take the old friend because he once saved your life, and this would be the perfect chance to ! pay him back. *
However, you may never be able to find your perfect mate again...

The candidate who was hired (out of 200 applicants) had no trouble coming up with his answer. Guess what was his answer?

He simply answered:

"I would give the car keys to my Old friend and let him take the lady to the hospital. I would stay behind and wait for the bus with the partner of my dreams."

Sometimes, we gain more if we are able to give up our stubborn thought limitations. Never forget to "Think Outside of the Box."

My crew

2011-12-28T09:15:00.000-06:00

Oh' Rome Moscato d'Asti

2011-11-07T17:16:00.000-06:00

N.V. Oh' Rome Moscato d'Asti (Italy, Piedmont, Asti, Moscato d'Asti)

Vintage Type Producer Variety Designation Vineyard Country Region SubRegion Appellation

N.V. White - Sweet/Dessert Oh' Rome Moscato Blanco n/a n/a Italy Piedmont Asti Moscato d'Asti

light, low alcohol, lightly frizzante, sticky sweet moscato. The lady at HEB said it is perfect mixed with sprite.

Italy

Piedmont

Vignaioli Piemontesi (Italian only)

Moscato d'Asti

Consorzio per la Tutela dell'Asti

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 6

2011-08-06T19:43:00.000-05:00

Week 6

Word Problem Solving Plan 1

Word Problem Solving Strategies

Problem Solving Word Problems 2

Word Problem Solving 3

Word Problem Solving 4

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 5

2011-08-05T19:38:00.000-05:00

Week 5 Linear Coordinates
The Coordinate Plane
Graphing Using Intercepts
Graphs of Linear Equations
Slope and Rate of Change
Graphs Using Slope-Intercept Form
Direct Variation Models
Linear Function Graphs
Linear Equations in Slope Intercept Form
Linear Equations in Point Slope Form
Linear Equations in Standard Form
Equations of Parallel and Perpendicular Lines

Great Commencement Speech:

2011-08-04T20:56:00.001-05:00

Ellen DeGeneres: Define Your Own Success

Tulane, 2009: My idea of success is different today. And as you grow, you’ll realize the definition of success changes. For many of you, today, success is being able to hold down 20 shots of tequila. For me, the most important thing in your life is to live your life with integrity, and not to give in to peer pressure. To try to be something that you’re not. To live your life as an honest and compassionate person. To contribute in some way.

So to conclude my conclusion: Follow your passion, stay true to yourself. Never follow anyone else’s path, unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, and by all means you should follow that. Don’t give advice, it will come back and bite you in the ass. Don’t take anyone’s advice. So my advice to you is to be true to yourself and everything will be fine.

Tom Brokaw: Know That Less Can Be More

University of Montana, 2011: We may not have given you a perfect world, but we have given you dynamic opportunities for leaving a lasting legacy as a generation fearless and imaginative, tireless and selfless in pursuit of solutions to these monumental problems, a generation that emerged from this financial tsunami and rebuilt the landscape of their lives with an underpinning of sound values and an eye for proportion, knowing, in fact, that less can be more. It will not be easy, but I can promise you it will be rewarding in ways that a Wall Street bonus or a shot on American Idol cannot compete.

So where to begin? … It will be the most rewarding if it is rooted in personal passion and carried out with purpose, even when the first steps are small. You have an assortment of nimble and powerful tools that can assist you, and the Internet, with its vast universe of information and a capacity for research and communications playing out on ever-smaller devices across an ever-widening spectrum of choices. But those are tools; they're not oracles. They complement your mind and your heart, but they do not replace them.

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 4

2011-08-04T19:19:00.000-05:00

Week 4 Algebra
Introduction to matrices
Matrix multiplication (part 1)
Matrix multiplication (part 2)
Inverse Matrix (part 1)
Inverting matrices (part 2)
Inverting Matrices (part 3)
Matrices to solve a system of equations
Matrices to solve a vector combination problem
Singular Matrices
3-variable linear equations (part 1)
Solving 3 Equations with 3 Unknowns
Linear Algebra: Introduction to Vectors
Linear Algebra: Vector Examples
LinLinear Algebra: Parametric Representations of Lines
Linear Combinations and Span

Linear Algebra: Introduction to Linear Independence

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 3

2011-08-03T19:25:00.001-05:00

Decimals and Fractions

Converting fractions to decimals

Ordering numeric expressions

Representing a number as a decimal, percent, and fraction

Representing a number as a decimal, percent, and fraction 2

Converting Fractions to Decimals

Ordering Numeric Expressions

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 2

2011-08-02T17:52:00.003-05:00

Week 2

Decimal Place Value
Decimal Place Value 2
Decimals and Fractions
Converting Fractions to Decimals
Comparing Decimals
Rounding Decimals
Decimals on a Number Line
Comparing Decimals
Adding Decimals
Subtracting Decimals
Subtracting Decimals Word Problem
Multiplying Decimals
Multiplying a Decimal by a Power of 10
Dividing Decimals
Dividing a Decimal by a Power of 10
Dividing Decimals 2.1
Mulitplyling Decimals 3
Estimation with Decimals

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 1

2011-08-01T17:46:00.002-05:00

Week 1

Numerator and Denominator of a Fraction
Identifying Fraction Parts
Proper and Improper Fractions
Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
Changing an Improper Fraction to a Mixed Number
Recognizing Divisibility
Finding Factors of a Number
Prime Factorization
Recognizing Prime Numbers
Equivalent Fractions
Fractions in lowest terms
Comparing Fractions
Comparing Fractions 2
Multiplying Fractions

Are you Kidding me?

2011-07-29T14:27:00.000-05:00

okay, the scales are officially broken. they can not be right.

starting to hyperventilate? yes, I do that daily. it is okay, it is just a way your body deals with stress and too much information. Information overload is something that I get weekly. I know how much I learned in school, I went to Elementary, High School, and college for 20 years, and now that I am educating my own children, tutoring two in college with skype and two in elementary / intermediate school is if nothing else OVERWHELMING for me. the first year I was scared that I might fail, that we would try it out, the kids didn't believe in me, because I didn't believe in me, the second year we were frustrated and agitated, it was not going the way I wanted. Quarterly I would have a talk with my husband, and he was always ready to send them back, but I was resolved that this was the path even if I felt like Lewis and Clark and the journey was bound to fail. I finally got to a point 18 months into the journey. FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION, and I informed my family.

Suck it up, Walk it off, this is our path: EVERY DAY, ALL DAY. It is better now, I know that I am not alone. I am not without resources and I am fully in charge to make changes on the fly as I see fit to tweak the program, I share my changes and surprisingly many are implemented throughout not just TXVA but all of K12, so we are truly a grassroots movement that is making a difference every single day not just in our children lives, but in the lives of those children that live down the street, across town, or in the next county. Do not be silent and alone at home, reach out and say what is working, it is not working, what you think would make it work better. k12 is listening, TXVA is listening, your teachers are listening, and most importantly, other parents are learning from you, even if you are Brand Spanking New at this, you have a head on your shoulders and a lifetime of experience to bring to the table. Oh and by the way, do not forget your needed in BOOSTERS at the next meeting.

however, I seem to be glued to this desk and my butt is spreading out to the size of the gulf of mexico, that can not be good. I know that it is hot, but I have decided that I have two flights of stairs in the house, I should go up and down them like 10 times per hour. yep, that should do it.

words to live by

2011-07-20T23:48:00.000-05:00

RESPECT for ourselves, guide our MORALS

RESPECT for others, guide our MANNERS

Mom's Night In

2011-07-15T15:39:00.002-05:00

The 2007 Fratelli Moscato d'Asti is 100% Moscato. Fruit comes from the Asti region in Piedmont. 600 cases of this wine were produced and is available from HEB price is $9.99.

This sparkling Moscato has intense aromas of fruit and honey. Throughout the palate honey, tropical fruit and an undercurrent of almond are present. There is a pleasant, inherent sweetness that glides along the tongue and coats the back of the tongue. Those sweet notes are perfectly balanced by enough acidity to keep this sparkler from every becoming cloying. On its own I would serve with appetizers such as goat cheese puffs or with a fruit tart for dessert.

Wednesday

2011-07-14T00:19:00.000-05:00

I went non stop today, parent support for TXVA, Cub Scout field trip to petco, we had 17 kids under 11 attend. then school supplies (did you know that Office Max has folders for $.01? and then Target for everything under the sun, and then art class at the museum (free) and then chess club at the library and then the boys made dinner (scout requirement) and then one boy had boy scouts and the other piano practice, after showers tonight I was exhausted.

Ducking Responsibility

2011-07-11T08:45:00.003-05:00

WTD 547 Sunday

brilliant scouting ideas

2011-07-10T22:25:00.002-05:00

Scouting Ideas

The magic button — Make Everything OK

2011-07-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

The magic button — Make Everything OK

Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies:

2011-06-28T22:03:00.001-05:00

Recipe adapted from www.comfybelly.com

2 1/2 cups of blanched almond flour
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
8 tablespoons of butter (if you want the cookies a little chewier add 1-2 TBS additional butter)
1 tablespoon of vanilla
1/2 cup of honey (I use sugar-free honey from Nature’s Hollow)
1 cup of chocolate chips (I use sugar-free chocolate chips)

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and blend well.
3. Add the wet ingredients and blend well again.
4. Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper, and drop a spoon full of cookie dough on the parchment paper, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until they start to brown on the edges.

Who's YOUR momma?

2011-06-24T15:52:00.006-05:00

It started with an Amish Friendship Sour Dough in a bag from Cub Scouts.

it Evolved into a day of reckoning

The 10 day to get to this point are an excersize in patience.

Note: Do not Refridgerate starter. It is normal for the batter to rise and ferment. if air gets in the bag, let it out.

Day 1: do Nothing

Day 2, 3, 4, 5: Mash the bag

Day 6: Add to the bag: 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of milk, mash the bag.

Day 7, 8, 9: Mash the bag

Day 10: follow the directions below:

pour the entire bag into a nonmetal bowl

add 1.5 cups four, 1.5 cups sugar, 1 cup milk

measure out 4 separate batters of 1 cup each into 4 1-gallon ziploc bags, label the current date.

keep one for yourself, and give the other bags to 3 friends along with the recipe.

Remember: if you keep a starter for yourself, you will be baking in 10 days.

Baking instructions:

1. preheat oven to 325'F

2. measure out 1 cup of remaining starter in a non metal bowl

3. add 2.5 cups of flour (could be white, wheat, or a blend)

4. add 2 tsp of yeast, fold and toss until flour is incoporated.

5. in a pint jar, add 1.5 cups of water, 3 Tbl sugar, 3 Tbl butter, microwave for 1 minute until butter is nearly melted

6. stir in jar, and add to starter / flour / yeast mixture until mixed well.

7. measure out 2.5 cups of flour (could be white, wheat, or a blend), add 1/2 tsp of baking soda, 1 tsp of sea salt

8. mix gingerly with rubber paddle or fingers until all evenly, kneed to smooth finish, cover and let rise about an hour, kneed again. each batch makes one 2 lb or 2 one lb loaves

bake until golden brown.

one starter can make up to two or three large dough's

time for an update

2011-06-22T14:40:00.002-05:00

Gracious, they are getting big!

Go the F*ck to Sleep - read by Samuel L. Jackson.flv

2011-06-17T16:21:00.000-05:00

Squash Patties

2011-06-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

The recipe for these delicious patties was given to me by my friend Ellen. She’s always been one of my favorites. Written on the recipe is the following blurb, “This is the only way I can get Russ to eat squash.” If you have somebody in your family who thinks they don’t like squash, give this recipe a try.

Ingredients:

* 1 cup cooked, drained and mashed yellow squash
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 c. self-rising flour
* 1/4 c. sauteed chopped onions
* 1/4 c. sauteed peppers (red or green), optional
* freshly ground pepper

Directions:

Combine all ingredients.

Drop by large spoonfuls into hot skillet coated with vegetable oil spray or 2 t. vegetable oil. When browned on one side, flip and cook until brown on reverse side (just like you would make regular pancakes).

on my list to do today

2011-06-16T14:18:00.002-05:00

CHEAP AND YUMMY BROWNIE RECIPE!

6 TBSP cocoa, 1/4 C butter, 1 C sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla, 1/3 C flour, 2 eggs,

Cook 350 - 25 mins.

Science my Favorite

2011-04-17T20:01:00.001-05:00

okay, confirmation, I am not crazy, this is the way to teach now days. whew!
NIH Science Education Nation - Education Today
science.education.nih.gov
People accustomed to a traditional science classroom where the teacher directly communicates factual information will likely be surprised if they find themselves in a science class that’s using inquiry-based learning.
Science.. my favorite
Hands-on Engineering Activities for Grades 6-12
www.nsta.org
technology, my favorite
TCEA - Texas Computer Education Association
www.tcea.org
The Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) is innovate teaching and learning processes to improve classroom learning experiences.

The Plan

2011-04-12T13:14:00.002-05:00

next two weeks: prepare for taks, week after that: take a break

going forward: put joy back into learning

today we are spending 6 hours going through the Texas Pearson's Guides

http://perspective.pearsonaccess.com/perspective/appmanager/tx/family/

Once that is done, we will be wrapping up our Work Samples by Friday.

Study Islands and nearly complete, and then we will have completed our commitment to the school

and will start HAVING FUN with EDUCATION. I am thinking http://www.jason.org/public/whatis/start.aspx for some SERIOUSLY GOOD FUN!!!

We are registered for Swim Team, that is 1 hour a day 6 days a week at the pool.

http://scfsharks.org/

We are registering for Triathlon, that is 2 Saturdays a month all over Houston

http://www.kiwanishoustonsunrise.org/default.aspx/MenuItemID/171/MenuGroup/Kidstriathlon.htm

We are going to California in May for 10 days and learn about Oceans

http://www.ocean-institute.org/

We will be participating in TXVA Houston Field Day to be Location to be Determined

We will be conducting the Arrow of Light Ceremony for Scouts with an group from the Order of Arrow

We will be participating in Soaring Eagle Scout Day Camp for four days

http://www.soaringeagledaycamp.org/

We are going to Glacier National park for 10 days this summer

http://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm

We are going to Lewiston and Clarkston and learn about the Lewis and Clark Trail,

http://www.lewisandclarktrail.com/

We are going to Nez Perce Indian Reservation for a Pow Wow

http://www.powwowtime.com/calendar/powwows-idaho/chief-looking-glass-powwow

We are going to Greenough Montana for a wedding in August

in our spare time, we will be relaxing and having FUN, FUN I tell ya... FUN!

Bawahahaha

2011-04-10T17:59:00.003-05:00

LAND ONLY PRICE (DOES NOT INCLUDE FLIGHT); PARTICIPANTS SHOULD NOT PURCHASE THEIR AIRLINE TICKETS BEFORE RECEIVING CONFIRMATION FROM Professor Mom THAT THE PMOM TRIP IS RUNNING. THIS CONFIRMATION WILL BE SENT TO ALL PARTICIPANTS NO LATER THAN 60 DAYS BEFORE THE DATE OF DEPARTURE.

DATE DESTINATION PRICE TEACHER

May.8.2011 - May.18.2011 San Clemente, California $850.00 Professor Mom

July.1.2011 - July.10.2011 Lewiston Idaho $450.00 Professor Mom

July.11.2011 - July.22.2011 Missoula Montana $675.00 Professor Mom

July.22.2011 - August.1.2011 Clarkston Washington $395.00 Professor Mom

August.2.2011 - August.10.2011 Glacier Park Montana $825.00 Professor Mom

August.11.2011 - August.21.2011 Lewiston Idaho $395.00 Professor Mom

August.22.2011 - August.30.2011 Greenough Montana $825.00 Professor Mom

wrap it up

2011-03-25T20:42:00.001-05:00

When is your favorite time of the day?

Night time, after the kids are in bed asleep and I am 'off duty'

What do you dislike most about people?

one-up-manship, if I have a bad day, theirs is 10 times worse, if I have an accomplishment, theirs is 10 times better

What superhero would you secretly want to be?

Oracle (batgirl) Barbara Gordon developed many technological skills, including vast knowledge of computers and electronics, expert skills as a hacker, and graduate training in library sciences. Gordon is also written as having a genius-level intellect and naturally possessing a photographic memory. Oracle maintains control over the twelve technologically advanced satellites that were created by Lex Luthor during his tenure as President of the United States.

What animal would you not mind being?
A bear - get to hibernate. You do nothing but sleep for Six months. I could deal with that.

Before you hibernate, you’re supposed to eat yourself stupid. I could deal with that too.

When you’re a girl bear, you birth your children (who are the size of walnuts) while you’re sleeping and wake to partially grown, cute cuddly cubs. I could definitely deal with that.

If you’re a mama bear, everyone knows you mean business. You swat anyone who bothers your cubs. If your cubs get out of line, you swat them too. I could deal with that.

If your a bear, your mate EXPECTS you to wake up growling. He EXPECTS that you will have hairy legs and excess body fat.

Yup… I’m gonna be a bear.

If you had no choice but to be famous, what would you do?

Make a difference in our education system, I would gut it and start over and I would definitely in act a foreign exchange system so that our children were more internationally aware.

Sad apple to Glad Apple

2011-02-14T16:09:00.002-06:00

the last soldier in the fruit bowl, always looks so sad. but I can not throw him away. just a little soft. so I cored and diced him up in a bowl, sprinkled and tossed with cinnamon, sugar, and a sprinz of nutmeg, sprinkled 1/2 hand full of carmel bits put in saucer over the top to trap the steam.

microwaved for 2 minutes, and let rest for 10 minutes, on diet, so skipping the ice cream topping, but this is pretty good too.

what if?

2011-02-05T15:13:00.003-06:00

Master of Education (M. Ed.) in Gifted and Talented Education
The Department of Curriculum and Instruction offers this degree program.
Is this program for me?
The Master’s program in Gifted and Talented Education develops awareness, knowledge, and understanding about teaching gifted and talented students. The program is designed to lay instructional foundation, and provide specific knowledge. Program and elective courses will provide graduates with the ability to fulfill the academic, social, emotional, and cultural needs of gifted children, youth, and/or adults.
The practicum experience offers opportunities for students to demonstrate their competence by applying their skills with children and youth.
The program is designed with several courses offered online. They are presented with a live chat room/whiteboard complemented with a web enhanced asynchronous environment on discussion boards. This allows participants to engage at their own convenience.
It will typically take 2 to 3 years to complete the degree if students are enrolled full-time (9 hours per semester).
What will I learn?
Through Gifted and Talented program coursework, specialized electives, and a Comprehensive Exam or Master’s Thesis graduates will obtain the following skills:
Diagnostic Teaching
Curriculum differentiation
Teach TEKS/TAKS in order to support state testing
Evaluate Student Products
Reflective teaching
Graduates will also develop competence in:
Curriculum development
Content development
Delivery and evaluation
Students work closely with faculty and fellow classmates to explore and conduct educational research as they improve their research writing and presentation skills. Students will learn to critically evaluate as well as implement gifted and talented curriculum programs.
Since degree plans change periodically, students will follow the degree plan that is in place at the time in which they complete an official, approved degree plan. Following is the most current sample degree plan for the M.Ed. in Gifted and Talented Education.
What can I do with my degree?
The Gifted and Talented Master’s Program is designed to prepare skilled professionals to serve in diverse educational settings including:
Public and Private Schools
Early Childcare Centers, schools, hospitals and related agencies
Community College Settings
Graduates with a M.Ed. in Gifted and Talented Education may pursue the following careers:
Curriculum Specialist
Educational Director
Community College Instructor
Early Childhood-6th grade General Classroom Teacher
Fourth-8th grade Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies Classroom Teacher

good watch

2011-02-04T12:32:00.000-06:00

I'm Not Finished, Yet.

2011-02-03T12:00:00.006-06:00

I remember the point of exhaustion in my junior year of college at the University of Montana. I was balancing a full class load heavy in mathematics and science without the benefit of self believe that I was gifted or talented with the overwhelming task of raising three small children under 5 years old. A high school guidance counselor prepared me to go a different way with an enlightening 'talk'. “Your grade point average is only 2.5, you can expect your GPA to drop a full grade point in college level courses. Perhaps you might consider other options.” I defied her, and took the ACT but without any idea of what the scoring system was, I thought I failed it with a score of 24. I thought that it was on the 100% scale, that she was correct, and I was not qualified to be in college.

It was with a lot of determination and tenacity that I did finish my degree's. I sacrificed myself. I tried to give at least 80% to every other aspect of my life. My children were already the center focus of my life, my personal health and relationships took a backseat to their needs, yet coursework still consumed hours of each day. However, failure was not an option, so each semester was filled with anxiety about getting to class on time, preparing for exams, and revising each research paper and written report competing with Christmas recitals, birthday parties and Easter egg hunts for my time and attention.

After completing college, I went to work for a brief period but discovered that work continuously conflicted with my natural propensity to put my children first. I just never could seem to master the juggling of school negotiations for my special needs children, the physical, speech and occupational therapy sessions seems to always take the front seat on my life. I always expected that if I could just get through the next crisis, complete the next hurdle, my life would slow down and I could rest and recoup.

First it was just get my daughters through high school. Then it was just get through a wedding, or get this grand baby through the first year in one piece. Get that daughter through her first military deployment while her husband was serving overseas. Get this son through scout rank requirements or through the latest swim team season. Each milestone was never a finish line though, and I never had a moment when all was settled, well, and I was done.

I returned to my High School 20th reunion with some trepidation. High school was never a pleasant memory, a fond experience, mostly it is like a really bad movie cliché. So it was pleasant to see that 90% of the students had done some considerable growing up and were significantly more pleasant than they had been in the halls and cafeteria two decades previously. However, that being said, I did feel a sense of disappointment in my own life to learn that at least one of 1200 students went on to a distinguished military career in Washington, D.C., (why had I not done that?) and at least one had gone on to work and live in London, England (why had I not done that?) and several had explored Ireland, Tibet, and a yet, here I was once proud of my passport with 6 stamps, was not as well traveled as I had previously thought.

What had I done with my life? A brilliant career? No, that was not what I had to show for it all. I had not conquered the world after all. I never seemed to live up to my own expectations. I have had many goals in life, but finishing any project was usually an accident. What could I say about my career? Memories of Little League, Soccer, and providing hospice for my family when my grandfather passed away from cancer highlighted with family trips to Great Smokey Mountains and Mardi Gras in New Orleans flash in my mind. Spending hours teaching my children how to fix a leaky toilet or how to grout a tile floor, mixed with cross country road trips through Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore and visits to the family farm in Wisconsin are interspersed with getting to the parking lot at 5 am for church camp retreats at Utmost or driving to Painted Rocks Reservoir to help the girls pitch a tent when I was 7 month pregnant. Days spent at Silverwood Park, fishing and water skiing are dotted with lunches in the cafeteria, and long walks with talks, and heart to heart interventions in the walk in closet. Signing off community service hours for friends of my kids after they made bad choices, and the laughable joke of Scouting being just one hour a week, honestly, it is more like 10.

My first mission statement 25 years ago, “When you love someone, you help them, whether it is convenient or not” is still true and yet, today "making a difference" has been my consistent mantra. Each difficult choice has been, can I make a difference here? Will volunteering 200 hours in one month, have a far reaching benefit to someone in lieu of the sacrifice to my family and myself. Even if it is not now, but 10 years from now?

Life is Like a Cup of Coffee

Spiritual Story by Unknown

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life.

Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the coffee.

When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said: "If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups have been taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.

Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups... And then you began eyeing each other's cups.

Now consider this: Life is the coffee; the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we have does not define, nor change the quality of life we live.

Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee. Savor the coffee, not the cups! The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.

I do not have the big pretentious house, the two cars, or a comfortable bank account that I expected would give me happiness and a sense of accomplishment. When I have dinner with rich and successful people I feel outclassed, even with a college education, there is always going to be a barrier because of my own perceived self worth. That limitation is most likely why I never achieved anything of noteworthy recognition.

When I enrolled in college, it was to save the environment. Today I teach cub scouts about Leave No Trace and Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Years ago I took an photography elective in college, it was to have fun, today it is how I not only chronology my own family's history, but I provide a service in my community for other families as well. Now as I virtual school my two youngest and virtual tutor my two oldest in college, I think back to my own college education, I am sharing my knowledge with at least 4 of my children. As a scout leader, I am influencing young men, what will the ripple effect be from that? Will there ever be the point of recognition within myself or from those that I have had an impact on, that I achieved greatness if only by 'being there' in a time of need when no one knew that they would need help?

Friday

2011-01-28T09:00:00.001-06:00

okay, so Tuesday was pinewood derby / cub scouts

Wednesday was Math lab, downtown traffic, three cops in my ''bubble'' at discovery green with my two children obviously not in school and erik had boy scouts and a frantic g'ma calling me to go get her grandson scout 11 miles away and get him to scouts on time.

Thursday was court in the morning, civics class, piano in the afternoon, and science after that, got the entire front yard raked last night, leaves and dead grass and then study island and math class connect / achievement series

today is make up day and then at 4 we have scouts community service project for 2 hours and then I think I will ship the kids off to Friday night live at the Cypress Creek Community Center for 4 hours of P.E. and Socialization. also have to have a check ready for venturing girl scout today for mulch for the front yard.

Erik has to be UP and at Scouts Merit Badge Workshop at 6 am (it starts at 7 am but is a 6 mile drive.

we are trying to get Krystal enrolled at SHSU for PreLaw for the fall, financial aid and taxes done by the end of the month.

still no word on the 504.

waiting for my coffee to brew. last time I took time for me? I had me time in November 24th, 3 hours from 6 - 9 pm LOL

no, I never take 'me' time, it is all about my family, it is my downfall. as for the hubby, he is on his own schedule, we did have dinner last night together, that was different. I even cooked, that was really different. giggle

I was feeling productive after cleaning the yard, and whatnot, so cooked a bow tie pasta / marinara / peas and carrot dish with green chilies and mozzarella cheese.

I think our next big project is to put in a fire pit in the back yard, then I could sit out and roast marshmallows for relaxation. oh wait, that would require that I put in about 20 hours to actually PUT IN the pit. hee hee yeah, see, there I go again.

you know, I keep telling myself, I just need to get through just one more hurdle, I just need to get the twins graduated from high school and my job will be done. I just need to get through Krys / Jason's wedding and my job will be done, I just need to get Krys / Jordan through their first year and I can coast. Jasmines first year in college and then Lilly's first year and just through Erik / Magnus cub scouts, and now Erik's boy scouts, and it just never seems to stop, there is always just one more milestone that I need to facilitate, coordinate, navigate, and orchestrate. now it is getting Erik through to Eagle, and Krystal enrolled in pre-law, and erik / magnus through taks, and there never seems to be an end of my worry and stress that I will drop the ball and leave something 1/2 done.

Now we just need to get through Blue and Gold, which means to do volunteer hours to facilitate donations from the store, to pay for the amenities. I remembered to get the track for pinewood derby, but misunderstood that I was responsible for awards as well. I thought the awards was for Blue and Gold, which I am responsible for as well. and I have truly neglected the outdoor hikes, I must get those schedule as well.and we have four months to plan the Arrow of Light ceremony. And I need to complete my Woodbadge ticket this spring. I would take a walk down the nature path, but no car today, scouts this afternoon, the boys are working on earning Friday Night live tonight, scouts tomorrow, and church chili activity tomorrow night that I have not even begun to prepare for yet. so maybe sunday I will have a couple of hours to just commune with nature. highly unlikely though. heehee

I noticed that the Houston Gem and Mineral show is in November, Friday the 11th is good for homeschool kids, Saturday and Sunday is classes for Scouts and Badges, Belt loops, and Pins.

okay, back to school for us. I have to teach science this after noon.

Everyone Loves Flowers

2011-01-18T11:58:00.001-06:00

• Fundraiser Start Date: 02/01/2011

• Fundraiser End Date: 04/15/2011

stress

2011-01-17T16:25:00.000-06:00

I cried today.

I was so overwhelmed last week that I quit every day.

I have an abundant guilt at checking off work that is not completed to my satisfaction.

while I am well aware that there is a 'liberal interpretation' and that you do not have to do everything in every lesson. FOR ME and mine, there comes a point that we can not do ANYTHING in a lesson. If all we did was use the 5 - 7 question assessment as an OPEN BOOK test and have unlimited time to research the internet to find the answer, we STILL do not stay caught up, and yes, we spend up to 12 hours a day struggling through the curriculum.

For instance, in order to GET THROUGH spelling each week, I am happy if he can just get through the spelling test with 100%, http://www.spellingcity.com/view-spelling-list.html?listId=4465749, I check off all the spelling helps for that unit. and move on. it gives him a chance to keep testing the words until he gets / guesses them correctly. I should be doing a better job of teaching him, but I am hoping that spell check will catch his mistakes later. That makes me feel bad because I know that it is wrong.

I send him to http://wordlywise3000.com with his headphones on and he listens to the words and definitions and I trust that the exposure will be enough, because am not really that good at the droning teacher at the front of the class that drags on for hours about crap that I do not care about, and I seriously doubt that my kids want to endure it either. when it comes to knowing this stuff, yes, I know most of it, but I get so overwhelmed when this one is asking about that, and that one is asking about this, they are not doing the same stuff, so I can not combine teaching moments, we have not even really had more than two opportunities to even get to the manipulative. out lives are consumed by moving the % across the dotted line, so we end up skimming the requirements just to keep up, never really getting to the meat of anything because we are paddling so hard to keep our head above water, we never realize that we are swimming at the beach of a Caribbean port, all we can see is the next wave coming in and from this perspective, it looks like a tsunami.

I spent 1 hour driving to the museum yesterday, and 2 hours driving home, 6 hours there and felt guilty that we are not working to get caught up. we took 4 days off for Christmas so that the kids did not completely mutiny. Magnus swears that he is going back to school just as soon as he wakes up early enough to get on the bus.

I must be an ineffectual teacher because it should not be this hard. we should not be putting in 12 - 16 hours a day, and then I still have to go in the last week and check off a bunch of lesson to get up the % goal even though we NEVER wrote that essay or read that passage, or even come close to looking at that art project. I discovered that we sit so long at the computer just trying to catch up that we have put on 10 lbs, the kids included, and we never see the light of day. we do not play with the kids in the neighborhood anymore because we never get close to being done before dark. it is always 5:30 before we stop, and then that only allows 30 minutes of free time before dinner must be served.

magnus: we hate it. because it is boring. takes time out my sleep and free time.

yep, I make a lousy spokes person for virtual schooling.

kat

BRØDRENE MYLIUS "Tele"

2011-01-17T14:48:00.004-06:00

Searching for to purchase:
Manufacturer Brodrene Mylius, Kragero, Norway
830S Mylius Norway NM

(10) Dinner Knives
(10) Dinner Forks
(10) Desert / Soup Spoons

Digital Holiday Card

2010-12-21T11:37:00.000-06:00

We Wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Another Birthday Coming up

2010-12-06T14:16:00.001-06:00

Not sure how that happened, it is a good thing, would hate to see them end.

Grey Hair Sucks!

Menu changes to Holiday

2010-11-24T13:55:00.005-06:00

POMEGRANATE CRANBERRY EGGNOG BREAD PUDDING

Ingredients

non-stick spray

10 large eggs

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup Pomegranate Cranberry Compote or Sauce (see recipe)

1 cup pecan pieces, toasted and rough chopped

1 cup eggnog

1 1/2 cup half-and-half

10 slices Wheat Montana bread dried to smithereens, broken up into 1/2 inch pieces (about 5 cups)

Bourbon Spiced Cream, recipe follows

powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Grease a 6-cup (9 1/4 by 5 1/4 by 2 3/4-inch) loaf pan with butter.

Whisk together eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and cranberry sauce until very smooth. Stir in half-and-half. bread and pecans. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake until the pudding is set in the center, about 55 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes.

To serve, cut the pudding into 1-inch thick slices. Top with the Bourbon Spiced cream. Garnish with confectioners' sugar and mint.

FRESH CRANBERRY COMPOTE:

1/2 pound fresh cranberries

1/2 pound pomegranate

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cups water

3 tablespoons cornstarch

Put the cranberries, orange and lemon zest, orange and lemon juice, sugar, vanilla, and 1 1/2 cups of the water in a medium-size nonreactive saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and cook for 8 minutes. Dissolve the cornstarch in the remaining 1/2 cup of water and add to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium, then stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool completely. Yield: 2 cups

BOURBON SPICED CREAM:

1 quart heavy cream

1/2 cup bourbon

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Beat the cream and bourbon with an electric mixer on high speed in a large mixing bowl for about 2 minutes. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg and beat again until the mixture thickens and forms stiff peaks, another 1 to 2 minutes. Yield: 4 cups

SCALLOPED GREEN TOMATOES

Ingredients

Serves 6 to 8

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 bunch celery, including leaves, coarsely chopped

1 shallot, skin-on, sliced

1/2 small onion, skin-on, sliced

3 peppercorns, crushed with the back of a knife

1 small bay leaf

1 sprig fresh thyme, plus 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 cups fresh cream

3 to 4 pounds green tomatoes

Fresh breadcrumbs from 1 baguette

Directions

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add celery, shallot, onion, peppercorns, bay leaf, and thyme sprigs, and season with salt; cook, stirring, until vegetables are soft and translucent.

Add cream and bring to a simmer; remove from heat and let steep 15 to 20 minutes. Strain cream into a small container with a spout, gently pressing on solids to extract flavor. Discard solids and set cream aside.

Using remaining tablespoon butter, butter a 9-by-7-inch or 2-quart baking dish; set aside. Using a mandolin, very thinly slice tomatoes into 1/16-inch slices, discarding any irregular or unusable pieces. Layer tomatoes close together and slightly overlapping so that they cover bottom of entire dish; season with salt and pepper. Repeat process, making 5 layers of tomatoes and seasoning between each. Let stand 15 minutes.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Using a second baking dish about the same size as the one containing the tomatoes, press down on surface of tomatoes and drain any liquid that has accumulated in the dish; discard liquid and remove second baking dish.

Top tomatoes with breadcrumbs; do not press down. Evenly pour reserved cream over top so that breadcrumbs are moistened. Transfer to oven and bake until breadcrumbs are golden brown and tomatoes are tender, 40 to 50 minutes. Top with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.

DRESSING MUFFINS

Baking this cornbread dressing from Miller Union chef Steven Satterfield in muffin tins gives each serving crispy, savory edges.

Ingredients

Serves 12

3 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter

Cornbread

3/4 cup dried cherries, chopped

3/4 cup chopped pecan pieces

3/4 cup chopped onion

2/3 cup chopped celery

2 tablespoons chopped shallots

2 teaspoons fresh finely chopped sage

1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves

1 3/4 cups homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken stock

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Using 2 tablespoons butter, butter a standard 12-cup muffin tin; set aside.

Break cornbread into medium-fine pieces by hand in the pan it was baked in; add cherries and pecans; set aside.

Heat remaining 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, shallots, sage, and thyme; cook, stirring, until onions are translucent. Add chicken stock and bring to a simmer; let simmer for 5 minutes and remove from heat.

Pour vegetable mixture over cornbread and mix to combine; let cool slightly. Stir in eggs and season with salt and pepper.

Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, fill prepared muffin tin with cornbread mixture. Transfer to oven and bake until set, about 40 minutes. Let cool before removing from muffin tins.

We Love China Gardens

2010-10-19T18:25:00.001-05:00

http://speakupmissoula.com/answer/4062/China_Gardens

Insanely Exhausted

2010-10-12T13:39:00.002-05:00

here are some catch phrases that I learned from my 9 year old his last year in B&M

"I hate my life"

"just kill me now"

"would you like some cheese with your whine"

"did that hurt? I didn't feel a thing"

LOL

everyone has a breaking point. each person will find it, hopefully before the brink of sanity and desperately before they self destruct.

I would love to say that this is fun, IT ISNT

I would love to say this is rewarding, The Jury is Still out on that one

I will not tell you that it gets better and this is why

if you can not handle this, and you hold on until you can handle it, you will take on something else that you can not handle, because you figure that you have mastered this and so you can handle a little bit more. this is a fatal flaw with some personalities (mine included)

I couldnt handle two at home, but then I had two, I couldnt handle two at home and scouts, but then I did, you just keep piling it up on your plate until you can not handle it anymore. I wish I had good news, but I am still desperately trying to clear my plate this week, why? to rush clear across the country to HEAP more on my PLATE. because that is what I do.

I am my college child's study buddy, because she went to B&M and doesnt have a clue of how little she knows

I am teaching my 5th grader and terrified that I will not get all the math and science stuffed into his head

I am teaching my 4th grader that HATES to write and I seriously doubt that he will master it by spring.

so let's revisit:

I hate my life, it will not get any better, just kill me now, I chose this for myself, yes it hurts, so what, there is no plan B, I have to suck it up, walk it off, and drag my kids kicking and screaming into the 21st century and get them to understand that the internet is a research tool, not a animae portal, and will someone POLEZZE tell my 25 year old daughter to GOOGLE before asking me, and NOT tell me that GOOGLE takes TOO long.

This is NOT how I planned my life when I was 17 and KNEW IT ALL.

time demands:

Magnus: 9am - 4 pm

Erik: 11 am - 6 pm

Sverre:8 pm-12 pm

Jasmine: 10 pm to 6 am

Kat: yeah, good luck with that

Re: 3 Nice Things Today

I have been in such a bad mood for days that I must revisit this:

1. my socially challenged child that is the whole catalyst for us being here had a FANTASTIC weekend socially and I am grateful that he did so well.

2. Even though I am worried to distraction that both of my older boys ( both LCpls) are in Afghanistan, they will be ok. and Lili-anne is not here yet, and THAT is a GOOD thing. she will be done cooking by Halloween.

3. we have a curriculum that I can implement as I see fit, a house we can afford, an steady income to provide, and our health is very good. all other challenges are just distractions.

2010-09-29T10:16:00.002-05:00

Frequently I reply to the 'lastest' posts in online discussion groups, not sticking to one particular clique or group. I consider myself pretty liberal, and it is rare that I look up and see anything other than title of the the discussion or topic, rather than which 'group' that topic traditionally belongs to.

so it is very reasonable for any innocent to walk into a 'room', not hunting out any particular group to annoy, aggravate, or irritate. frequently I do manage that objective with very little effort what so ever. LOL

that being said, let me chime in here, because I can. and No I will not apologize for my opinions, they free and worth about that much.

My husband is a devout atheist. actually a humanist, but few know about that point of view. I am a possibly a right wing democrat or a left wing republican (the Left is called "the party of movement" and the Right "the party of order".) depending on the topic. (Traditionally, the Left includes progressives, social liberals, social democrats, socialists, communists and anarchists. The Right includes conservatives, reactionaries, capitalists, monarchists, nationalists and fascists.) I am obviously a progressive and anarchist if I am willing to buck the establishment and home school my children, but I am a a conservative nationalist if I am going with such a restrictive program that demands accountability.

So I do not believe that any one stance is perfect, any religion is perfect, any one curriculum is perfect. or any one discussion room is perfect. as with any buffet, you dish up what you want, take what you like, and leave the rest. that is not a secular decision, a racial decision, or a scientific decision, it is just a COMMON SENSE decision. The fact that this topic was raised, and brought to my attention is a 'blessing' since I didn't know that there was a bible study in the literature program perked my interest. Yes I am considered one of THOSE people since it is obvious that I have been lurking over in THAT mormon discussion group, but that does not pigeon hole me to only one track mind set. I chose k12 because it was non-secular, on purpose.

btw, political correctness tends to really irritate me. I watched a new pilot, and I kid you not, they got in one white, one black, one asian and one female to make the cast Barney Diverse. SERIOUSLY? why? life is not Barney Diverse. my family is not Barney Diverse, my kids education is not Barney Diverse. I think sometimes people try to hard.

I recently read in another book The Educated Child and while I find some of his opinions laced with a tad bit more conservatism than I am, the point that he makes is valid. To few parents establish what they believe with their children, they dance around the subject, they never come right now and force their views on their child and they leave the child to figure it out on their own. To teach or not to teach a topic or subject, to censure or not to censure is entirely up to the parent and at least with k12 we have the choice to do so without interference. The local B&M did not offer that choice. They are militant here in conformity to a set of standards that are not MY set of standards, which is why I am in k12.

My point (and I was getting to it) was that I want to be INFORMED, I want to KNOW what is being offered, in the B&M, in k12, on the TV, and I want to make my own choice and my own decision. not because I am part of this party, or that, because I am part of this mindset or that, because I am in this group or that one.

Not everything we say or do is going to be confrontational, not everything we say or do is going to be embracing diversity, but we should be able to make a rational observation and draw a conclusion without constantly apologizing or getting defensive because someone may or may not share our point of view.

End of family reunion dinner

2010-09-26T21:08:00.001-05:00

Smores

Education.. not school

2010-09-11T15:50:00.003-05:00

this is our second year and with one it was bad, but with two, it is just as bad as last year when I didn't have a clue. but not unforeseen. I knew it was coming. be careful what you wish for.

okay, here is my brainstorming.

A; this is not SCHOOL, this is EDUCATION. so how long is that going to take?

how long does that job take? 40 hours a week? hmm that is 8-5 not 9-330. so if the WORK at hand is to get an education, not just go to SCHOOL. we are looking at 30 hours of instruction and 10 hours of enrichment.

now the k12 program doesn't say MAXIMUM of 30 hours a week, they said MINIMUM. if your family drives the exact precise speed limit on the freeway, then follow the minimum, if your family goes over about 10 mph, then I would say that they would be acceptable to a 10 hour fudge factor on school work as well. SOUNDS reasonable to me.

remember I am in the same boat, my husband says that this is MY project and I am the PROJECT MANAGER if it succeeds or fails, it is all on me.

so we tried following the k12 recommended day for 21 days. THAT was a FAIL. we do not transition well, I found the kids wandering aimlessly around the house when they KNEW what was on the schedule for that time slot, and they were basically avoiding me and working.

we have a stellar home office with three work stations with three computers with a comfy couch, multimedia surround sound and it is really nice DSL. they are extremely well set up with functionality and all the tools. so it is not THAT, it is lack of direction. the map is in thier hands, the GPS in the pocket, and they still get lost going to the kitchen for a drink.

so here is my plan:

we have a strict menu each week:

SUNDAY is Pizza, every Sunday, every week, pizza, cheese pizza, cherry pie pizza, veggie pizza, two kinds of pizza, but always PIZZA
MONDAY, is Mac n Cheese, lasagna, some kind of pasta
TUESDAY is TACOS, if it is Tacos, it is Tuesday and if it is Tuesday, beef tacos, chicken tacos, it is tacos. you can set your watch by it.
WEDNESDAY is Soup and Sandwich, usually tomato and grilled cheese, but always S&S
THURSDAY is spaghetti, every Thursday, every week
FRIDAY is Fish and Veggies, without fail. fish fillet, fish sticks, fish
SATURDAY is Crepes, it just is, always, every Saturday, CREPES, sometimes with jam, sometimes with fresh fruit, sometimes just sugar, but always crepes

so we have embraced the menu, I need to chunk up the lessons

Monday obviously must be MATH, math monday, monday math. no problem, makes sense P.E. is every every day, 2 hours of pe, 5 hours of math, that I can pull off

Tuesday... Silly Science (3)and Social Studies(2)

Wednesday... Health & Music

Thursday.... Music - Composition

Friday... Language Arts (GUM, Spelling, Vocabulary, Literature)<~~I am not sure about this one at all

Saturday... Art and Foreign Language

Sunday... Music

and yes, I think we are going to have to go to 7 a week...

Island Girl Workouts - Tahitian Hip-Hop (Part 1)

2010-09-07T01:22:00.000-05:00

Island Girl Workouts - Tahitian Hip-Hop (Part 2)

2010-09-07T01:21:00.000-05:00

why virtual school

2010-09-04T21:37:00.001-05:00

THE FIRST BOOK OF NEPHI

CHAPTER 3

7 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I ^awill go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no ^bcommandments unto the children of men, save he shall ^cprepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.

8 And it came to pass that when my father had heard these words he was exceedingly glad, for he knew that I had been blessed of the Lord.

here is my take on it, and this is just personal reflection. I spend so many hours doing enrichment activities, that we more than cover the basic expectation of commitment. I have a running tally sheet on an envelope that I have for my own accountability, when I was home sick from the hospital, my son laid down next to me on the bed, and he watched 6 hours of walking with dinosaurs on PBS, you can bet that he is getting credit for that spread out over the school year, I call it bankable hours. he hiked 21 miles through Glacier National park with a Geologist / Park Ranger, he participated for 4 hours a day for 2 days, and each night he sat through 3 one hour lectures and slide shows about geology by the time we were done, he earned a Scout Conservation badge from Washington D.C., you can bet that we banked those for Science and P.E., 21 miles... in 5 days is a lot of hiking.

So what I do, is I push him, not watching the clock, but getting 3% assignments done each week. I give credit on each subject that we do work on, if he works hard, 1 hour, really hard, 2 hours, and really really hard 3 hours, until we have 6 - 8 hours. Our program only reimburses us for internet if we have a minimum of 6 hours a day, 5 days a week, not 30 hours a week over 6 days. I keep the lessons separate from the time. There are days that we work in a subject and do not complete a lesson, the program doesn't care. Lessons are A, B, C, D grades, attendance is 30 hours a week for 38 weeks, one does not have anything to do with the other.

1080 hours over 38 weeks or 180 days...

anyway you divide it, that is what you need.... at least 180 days of attendance and a minimum of 1080 hours.

there is not a lesson / hour police, they do not call you and question you, you do not have to PROVE that it took xx number of hours, it is an HONOR system, so if you work 10 minutes a day on each subject, and are done in 3 hours, fine, whoohoo, come the end of the year, who won? who benefited? what did you accomplish?

the 1080 hours is RECOMMENDED for the child to get the best possible opportunity to have an enriched and positive day. you get out of it what you put in to it. nothing comes without work, sweat, and striving for excellence. I think that we have become a nation of time clock watchers. it was just a while ago that we had apprentices, they were lucky to get a job training with the best, and they didn't clock in or out, they got up, they learned their craft, and they went to bed, that was their job. they were young children, but they learned their craft.

I would rather do it right, or not do it at all. I tell my children, don't disrepect my time and talent, this is truly a sacrifice for me and if you do not respect my time any better than giving me 110% you can go back to school and be happy with mediocre. I know what my education is worth. What I do for them, is a gift, the ultimate gift. I invested 8 years of my life in college to learn what I did, and I can share it with them, in the ultimate hands on learning experience in the world. We are taking the opportunity to change the educational process. I am not looking for a way to get out of school, I am not looking for a way to beat the clock and spend the day on my butt or worse at the mall. I am striving for an opportunity to give them a college level education before they finish high school, so that when they go to college, they build on that to the next level.

I do not have gifted and talented children, but I believe that "geniuses are made, not born".

That is my $.02, and that is why I am here.

why electives

2010-09-03T10:40:00.002-05:00

I just worked through this lesson with my college freshman child

interpersonal communication

there are some people that go to a trade school or get an Associates Art Degree, they learn one thing and they learn it very well, they are probably considered SELECTIVE, they get educated with the minimal details,

there are some other people that go to a college and get an BA or associates degree, they learn a basic trade, get some enrichment courses, and they get a more SYSTEMIC education, they cover the core essentials of advanced learning and can participate in an intelligent conversation about a variety of subjects outside of their major.

then there are a group of the population that go on to get an MA or PhD, they are are UNIQUE, the go beyond the social norm, the have maximized the processual evolution of education and have increased their quality with increased quantity of education, they have been exposed to a higher quantity of ELECTIVES and are more dynamic in thought process.

WHY do we study other languages, learn to play musical instruments? it helps our brain make CONNECTIONS in a variety of patterns. there is more than one way to get to the grocery store. there may be obstacles and you have to be able to re-evaluate your options and the barriers to get from point A to point B and think outside of the box.

The more ELECTIVES that we have in our enrichment the more ways we can explore to find a solution. It is the Right Brain / Left Brain issue, and you have to EXCERSIZE both sides or your will have a disproportionate development.

Everything has to be in balance, not just work, not just play, not just eating, not just spiritual, but all things in proportion.

So music lessons are not for the sake of MUSIC, they are a foreign language that teaches our brain how to communicate on a different plane. That is important when you think about how many foreign speaking people will be in your child's life when they go to work and have to communicate with people of other cultures.

Art appreciation and crafts are not a waste of time, they are the beginnings of Architecture, not just house architecture but database architecture. Teaching your brain to pick out when the white balance is off, how to color calibrate your tv or computer so see the true blacks, the true whites, for interior design to know when florescent lights make a room 'warmer' or “cooler”, how that affects mood. Did you know that if you go outside and are happier that is because the solar light is a different 'temperature' and it is warmer, than say inside and a 'bluer' light that is a different Kelvin temperature?

oh, that is a different way to look at it. yes we all want a good Art / Music program, but WHAT came in the box does not match the quality level of the other subjects offered by K12. I would have to agree wholeheartedly.

I love the other components like math, science, social studies. But the art and music materials that were provided are sadly lacking in quality and development.

Yes, there does not seem to be the same level of appreciation for the extras and it appears that k12 considers it EXTRA. I do not get the sense that they feel it is worth the effort to find a more current and rigorous curriculum and do not give it the respect that it deserves.

I am actually counting on the piano lessons to be our 'music program' replacement.

Fired up

2010-09-02T13:46:00.000-05:00

Recent diatribe on Chron.com

This family home schools and has a free-for-all curriculum, so lets crucify them. http://www.unschooling.com/

That family home schools and follows a strict national common core standards http://www.corestandards.org/ they must be fanatical because they do not have a bible class each morning.

We home school, for our own personal reasons, and we select a secular curriculum that is internationally influenced in preparation for a foreign college education with a college graduate learning coach and a professional teacher in an online environment. Our children participate in international and interstate field trips that would not only not be possible in a brick and mortar setting, but completely prohibited due to funding and supervisory resources.

Do not assume that it is religion that drives parents from the fundamentalist state of the current education in Texas, sometimes it is quite the opposite, parents that do not want their children to blindly accept doctrine that comes from Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh. My parents fought the establishment, only to become entrenched in it to my dismay. I am fighting the establishment to ensure that my children grow up KNOWING they have a choice KNOWING they CAN make a difference and knowing that there is more out there than 50 states and 50 capitals.

21st century education has to encompass that there is more in this world economy than just the stars and stripes. It is knowing the cultural differences on a market that is influenced by geography as well as class distinction. We simply can not afford to wait for the state of Texas to get beyond the heated discussion of which 6 US leaders should be discussed in 3rd grade social studies.

Erik lake summervile

2010-08-28T13:43:00.001-05:00

End of summer

What Teachers Make

2010-08-26T12:18:00.000-05:00

Starving

2010-08-16T10:44:00.004-05:00

the PTA sent out a request for teacher breakfast food volunteer.. the one that piqued my curiosity? french toast casserole.. that just sounds like a one way ticket to hell. so I googled it.

PAULA DEEN'S BAKED FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE WITH PRALINE TOPPING

1 loaf french bread
8 eggs
2 cups half and half
1 cup milk
2 T sugar
1 t vanilla extract
1/4 t cinnamon
1/8 t nutmeg
dash salt

slice bread into 1-inch slices. arrange slices in generously buttered 9x13 in casserole, in 2 rows, overlapping slices. beat together the rest of the ingredients and pour over bread, making sure all bread is covered evenly, spooning in between the slices. cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

praline topping:

2 sticks butter, softened
1 c packed brown sugar
1 c chopped pecans (optional)
2 T light corn syrup
1/2 t cinnamon
1/8 t ground nutmeg

blend together well and spread over top of bread (like frosting). bake casserole for 45-60 minutes at 350 degrees until puffed and lightly golden.

and then I saw the next two words to just drive me over the edge:

BANANA BREAD
I follow this recipe to the letter. While others may mess with perfection, I don't. Some people have said, "Oh, I substituted apple sauce for the oil." Good for you, I say. I made it last week. Just had a hankerin' for it. Accept no substitutes.

This is not about cutting fat, cutting calories, or cutting out flavor. This banana bread is best eaten about an hour after taken out of the oven, when the crust is still crusty. Cold, cold milk is the only drink that is good right then.

The recipe card is old. I laminated it. It is Stacey's from way back before the turn of the century.

This recipe isn't just good, it's Hall of Fame.

Preheat the oven to 325 F.

Mash 3 medium to large bananas in a bowl.
Mix in 3/4 C granulated sugar.
Add 1/2 C vegetable oil and 2 eggs and mix.
Mix in 1 3/4 C sifted flour, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, and 1/2 tsp. salt until you don't see any white from the flour.

Grease and flour a loaf pan.

Pour in the mixture. Bake 1 hour. The toothpick you stick in should come out clean.

Take the pan out and set it on a rack for about twenty minutes to half an hour. Cut in 1" slices while in the pan and serve hot; or wait longer if you can, turn the loaf out, and slice it.

http://nothingbutlove.net/test-blog/archives/000433.html

Easy to keep clean

2010-08-13T21:03:00.001-05:00

We just pass through, keeping upstairs in the family room

All shiney and bright

2010-08-13T18:25:00.001-05:00

Easy to keep clean, just magnus and me this month

Chit chat

2010-08-11T09:15:00.001-05:00

how Chase meet Jazz, funny thing about that. Chase is in the Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton, and hanging out with Jason and Krystal, so when Jazz was there with them, she and he met and hit it off. he is from Washington state and a very patient sweet person that takes way way too much crap off of her. she has had her heart permanently injured from more than one freaking moron so he is a real trooper to put up with her abuse to test his loyalty.

Scouts. let me tell you about scouts. first it was just taking Magnus in to be a Tiger. then it was being the den leader for those 8 little tigers, and then it was den leader for them as wolves, and then Erik had constant falling outs with his leader, so we switched packs, I became the den leader for the Webelos, and lead those boys including my own all to arrow of light (like eagle scouts) for the pack program. now Erik is in the boy scout program, Magnus is in the Webelos program, and I am doubly busy both on a troop level and a pack level. then someone said, hey, you have attended every training that we offer, how about kicking it up a notch, sure, why not. so I went to Woodbadge to be an even better leader. now I am coordinating a hiking program that will benefit the whole church family that sponsors our pack / troop and I motivate them to get out and get more outing in scouting. yesterday we took a boat tour of the Houston ship channel. last week we hiked through the downtown tunnel system and learned about civics, citizenship, and community. the chief of police bumped into us and had a quick chat with the boys. he almost seemed surprised that I didn't jump all over him and blabber away, but I just expect the boys to respect ALL the men in blue, no one more or less. :-)

I am extremely proud of my scouts achievements, my own boys and the boys in our pack, and I am extremely proud that both of my girls are with active duty marines. granted that freaks me out that boy are deploying AGAIN to Afghanistan, but duty to country is a foundation that I believe in strongly. so I help the girls out as best I can, and we just soldier on. I will figure out how to pay off my credit cards one day when this is all over.

as for my July baby, he is so very complicated. I knew something was up before he was a year, but they could not definitively link it to autism, so we just had to work through all the symptoms without any clue. even now, it is difficult to push him to keep going out, if he had his way, he would be a shut in, it is a constant battle but I try to find something for him to do three days a week that requires him to leave the house and interact with other humans.

this summer was INTENSE... for a summary... http://www.erikcameronamundsen.com is complete, http://www.jordanjasonmiles.com is mostly complete, and I am just starting to update http://www.magnusleeamundsen.com on what we did. I guess in my mind, I assume that anyone who is anyone already knows about the boy's blogs. ;-)

as for my tummy, I have never heard of a bezoar and I talk to many gastric bypass people. but I have heard stricture a lot, and that is what the doctor is thinking may be the cause, and a stricture is when the exit hole is too little for the food that was not chewed well enough to pass through and we are warned to cut small and chew chew chew, but frequently many people this far out get lazy and do not follow instructions, so it is a my bad for not doing a better job of taking care of myself.

okay, now I have got to get me some coffee, and find some kind of motivation to do my book keeping today, or the IRS nazi's will come down on my head and beat me to death and take my house for not filing my taxes within my extension. augh augh.

family status...

2010-08-10T16:16:00.001-05:00

okay, so I am shocked that this is a shocker.. I double checked, my last update was JANUARY??? surely I sent out an update since then??? what is up with that?

okay.. so it must be time for AN UPDATE....

from the bottom:
Magnus is beginning Year two of Home school, he is in the 4th grade and begrudgingly doing his work. He is in a charter school system, funded by the state of Texas, with education dollars, he is taking 9 courses and it takes him 6 hours to do get through it each day. the program is called K12 and they are pretty intense, I call it prep-school. Magnus was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder, http://magnusleeamundsen.blogspot.com/2010/04/sensory-processing-disorder.html is where we summarized for those that follow his blog. he is 4ft9in, and 67 lbs, so as far as CDC says for his age, he is normal

Erik is currently in Norway with his dad for three weeks his blog is http://erikcameronamundsen.blogspot.com/ and that is the most up to date of all the blogs covering what we did this summer. He desperately wants to home school this fall as well, I am leaning heavily towards that but his dad is pulling ferociously in the other direction. I think there will be a small war come Sunday Aug 22, with a shot across the bow of the ship once the plane lands from Amsterdam. Erik is a complicated soul. he has a definite preference for female role models, and has beautiful blonde locks that are the envy of the sisters in the family. it brings him in for some serious ridicule from friends and strangers alike. most people are starting to let it go, but there are some die hard conservatives in town that just can not believe that this BEAUTIFUL person wouldn't just be happier if he was more 'boyish'. We are not going to be surprized when and if the day comes for some announcements. We love Erik or Erika (he has several role playing games that he has a female persona and female avatars named Erika)

Naomi, well we visited with Naomi this summer, and she is exactly the same as she was last summer, the summer before, and the summer before that. mentally she is about 6 and for the most part she is happy. she has her good days, and her bad days. she remembers her family, even if she has not seen them for several years. each of her siblings have various levels of connection with her, most are tolerant of her disabilities, Magnus the least, Krystal the most.

Krystal / Jordan are back in California. Jordan came to live with us in February and stayed for 5 months, now his daddy (Jason) is currently deployed to Viper Training in 29 Palms California, for 6 weeks, and then 2 weeks vacation before deployment to Afghanistan. we are terrified, we are getting a flag draped coffin daily here in town, WAY WAY too many casualties. Jordan did have a good visit, and he grew and matured with us, but his momma missed him desperately.

and then there is Jasmine. Jasmine started college in January, she is studying early elementary education, going to teach K-3rd, she lives in Montana, and she and Chase are expecting their first wee one. Chase is in the same Group as Jason, so they will both deploy within days of each other. jasmine is still enrolled, her classes start the end of this month, and baby Lilyanne is due a month to 6 weeks before finals. oh joy. I am planning on going up mid October to help with Lily-anne, taking Magnus with.

as for me, I am still completed dedicated to scouting, went to wood badge training in April (200 hours of community service in the first month) and several hours each month on top of my normal duties as a webelos leader. homeschooling booster member, active in the church, and still struggling to be a professional photographer in an economy that is not conducive to luxuries like portraits.
I do have a outpatient surgery on Friday, so could use some prayers, have to go back in and make some modifications to the gastric bypass, there seems to be some blockage, called a Bezoar are tightly packed collections of partially digested or undigested material stuck in the stomach. lovely.

the husband, augh. the husband. he is still employed with HP, but they RARELY keep anyone past 20 years, and he is already past 17, so we know his days are numbered.

so that is me in a nutshell.

As we draw Near Deployment 2.0

2010-08-10T00:13:00.000-05:00

Moses 7:63 And the Lord said unto Enoch: Then shalt thou and all thy city meet them there, and we will receive them into our bosom, and they shall see us; and we will fall upon their necks, and they shall fall upon our necks, and we will kiss each other;

Taco Tuesday

2010-08-07T10:17:00.000-05:00

Chicken Quesadilla Pie

Serves 4-6 Hands-On Time: 15m Total Time: 45m
Ingredients

* 1 10-ounce can green or red enchilada sauce
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 4 8-inch flour tortillas
* 2 cups (8 ounces) grated Monterey Jack, plus 1/4 cup for the top
* 1 3 1/2- to 4-pound rotisserie chicken, shredded
* 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
* 1 zucchini, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced
* 1 cup salsa
* 1 avocado, diced
* 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

1. Heat oven to 400° F.
2. In a small bowl, combine the enchilada sauce and cream. Spoon 1/4 cup of the sauce mixture into the bottom of a shallow 2-quart casserole or 9-inch springform pan. Top with 1 tortilla and a third each of the cheese, chicken, onion, and zucchini. Repeat twice to form a total of 3 layers. Top with the remaining tortilla, sauce mixture, and cheese.
3. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 minutes more. Slice into wedges and serve with the salsa, avocado, and cilantro.

what is for dinner?

2010-08-05T09:56:00.002-05:00

I am so hungry...

Intense Mother of 5 children: 3 girls (twins) and 2 boys (year apart), three of which are special needs children, Breastfeeding and car-seat nazi, Grandmother of 1 ¾ precocious turbo tykes, Jordan is age 3, Lily-Anne is Expected by Halloween. Clucking Mother(hen)-in-law of two Marines too deploy to Afghanistan for second tour this fall. Passionately involved Boy Scout Leader with fervent expectations of one Webelos and one Tenderfoot and fiercely patriotic. Professional Portrait Photographer of some epic note. Eco-terrorist and proponent of electronic and digital education. College Graduate with Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Minor degrees in Geology and GIS (Computer Cartography). Wife of Sverre (eco-minion) whom is a I.T. Guru at H.P. Deeply committed to community volunteering.

Glacier Day 5

2010-07-21T10:24:00.004-05:00

Many Glacier:
Appekunny Falls
Appekunny Falls Trailhead, 1 mile east of the Many Glacier Hotel. Elevation climbs 700 feet
2 miles round trip hike

Two Medicine:
Running Eagle Falls. This waterfall seems to pour out of the face of the rock, rather than over the top of it.
.5 miles round trip hike.

Aster Park
This is a short, 3.8 round trip hike that is family friendly, with only 750 feet of vertical gain. It takes you past the banks of Two Medicine Lake and leads to a picturesque waterfall.

miles hiked 5.3 miles
animals seen: none

Up Close and Personal

2010-07-20T16:47:00.000-05:00

Upper Grinnell Glacier Lake

Glacier Day 4

2010-07-20T10:25:00.001-05:00

Grinnell Glacier 5.5
Grinnell Glacier Trailhead at the Many Glacier Picnic area or the south end of the Many Glacier Hotel. 3.8 miles via boat & hike. Boats leave from the Many Glacier Hotel boat dock. Elevation climbs 1,600 feet

Glacier Day 3

2010-07-19T10:31:00.003-05:00

The Red Rock Trailhead is located at the end of Many Glacier Road, which is on the east side of Glacier National Park. The most scenic driving route would be from the west entrance and across Logan Pass on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Many Glacier Road is accessible after leaving the east entrance and then returning to the park via Babb, Montana.

miles hiked: 2.6 miles from the trailhead at the Swiftcurrent parking lot next to the Many Glacier Campground.
animals we saw today: Ptarmigan, Moose and twin baby moose, white tail deer and fawn,

Glacier Day 2

2010-07-18T10:20:00.002-05:00

Avalanche Lake and Avalanche Gorge can be reached via a 4 mile round trip from the trailhead at Avalanche Campground. It's pleasant hiking along the creek, but there are no views to speak of until you reach the lake. the park guide walked fast, and it was hard for us city slickers to keep up. Avalanche Lake is pleasant, but not one of the most spectacular destinations in Glacier National Park. Worthwhile.

South of the Avalanche Gorge footbridge on the Trail of the Cedars. Elevation climbs 500 feet

followed by

Trail of the Cedars
Across from the Avalanche Campground Ranger Station. Level boardwalk

miles today: 4.5
animals we saw today: chipmunks

Glacier Day 1

2010-07-17T10:39:00.001-05:00

A free shuttle from avalanche campground to Logan Pass.

The trail to the Hidden Lake Viewpoint is about 3 miles roundtrip. there was a ton of snow to carefully pick our way over, slipping and sliding was scary at times as we were perched on the side of the cliff.

We saw Gophers, Ravens, Mountain Goats, and Big Horn Sheep.

Together for a Limited Time Engagement

2010-07-16T00:46:00.002-05:00

Krystal, Erik, Magnus, Jasmine, Naomi

Magnus, Jasmine, Naomi, Krystal, Erik

woodbadge

2010-07-05T09:36:00.001-05:00

Books from Wood Badge lessons

Key texts used during Wood Badge for the 21st Century

Please note that during the course there will be be presentation handouts for all topics and notetaking will be highly recommended. However, if you're not much of a notetaker, please realize that many parts of the curriculum are licenced and/or copyrighted by Ken Blanchard or others. Therefore, getting hardcopy of some information will require you to purchase a book. The most requested book on the course is The One Minute Manager Builds High Performing Teams .

The One Minute Manager Builds High Performing Teams (revised Edition)

by Ken Blanchard, Eunice Parisi-Carew

The most requested book on the course. In particular there are some highly coveted diagrams that are difficult to recreate in your personal notes.

Click to View on Amazon
Who Moved My Cheese? An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life

by Spencer Johnson, Kenneth H. Blanchard

The second most popular book on the course.

Click to View on Amazon
Leadership and the One Minute Manager : Increasing Effectiveness Through Situational Leadership

by Ken Blanchard, Patricia Zigarmi

Click to View on Amazon
Gung Ho! Turn On the People in Any Organization

by Ken Blanchard

Click to View on Amazon
October Sky: A Memoir

by Homer Hickam

The book that became a movie.

Click to View on Amazon
Rocket Boys

by Homer Hickam

The original book that later became the movie October Sky.

Click to View on Amazon
Rocket Boys

by Homer Hickam, Beau Bridges

Audio Cassette

Click to View on Amazon
Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People

by Stephen R. Covey

Click to View on Amazon
The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective Teens

by Sean Covey

Same sound principles beautifully illustrated. Easy to read and share with your teenagers or boys in your troop.

Click to View on Amazon
Leadership is an Art

by MAX DEPREE

Click to View on Amazon
On Becoming A Leader: The Leadership Classic--Updated And Expanded

by Warren Bennis, Warren G. Bennis

Click to View on Amazon
The Leadership Challenge, Third Edition

by James M. Kouzes, Barry Z. Posner

Click to View on Amazon
The POWER PRINCIPLE: INFLUENCE WITH HONOR

by Blaine Lee

Click to View on Amazon
It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy

by Michael Abrashoff

Click to View on Amazon

awe..

2010-06-28T01:35:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Magnus

2010-06-27T16:23:00.000-05:00

Idic 15

2010-06-24T22:55:00.000-05:00

funny joke!

2010-06-19T12:03:00.001-05:00

Two snakes are talking One of them turns to the other and asks,"Are we venomous?" The other replays, "Yes,why?..."
"I just bit ma lip."

Hurricane Slacker Mom strikes Southeast Texas Coast town

2010-06-11T22:50:00.002-05:00

One home Destroyed in wake of Scout Camp, Swim Team, 4th grade Home school, Small Business Taxes, and invasion of Grandchild, double son-in-law deployment, 1: college, 1: high school, 1: 5th grade

Oh holy hell. House looks like tornado hit. Camp over today. swim season over tomorrow. Life over now. Should take photo of house and save for next year in case I think about volunteering for a 4th year.

End of school year activities at both schools have wiped me out, still have to finish up Magnus's year.

My Magnus fell in love yesterday. Pro Stock Drag Racing - Buddy Nickens Camaro that visited our Cub Scout Day Camp. Magnus sat in the seat of a $300,000 car unsupervised. There is just no way this kid is going to go into racing cars as a hobby!

2009 - Category: PM-OUTLAW, Type: ZN, Class: TPSA, Div: 4 Chevrolet Camaro 1/8 Mile ET: 4.758 at North Star Dragway/Denton TPSA 03/09 | 1/8 Mile MPH: 144.28 at North Star Dragway/Denton TPSA 03/09

Woke up

2010-06-11T18:15:00.001-05:00

And wondered what the hell happened to my house.

End of the year at school, scout camp, swim team practices, and portrait sessions.

Looks like a bomb went off here.

Cub Scout Day Camp

2010-06-09T22:39:00.002-05:00

camp is brilliant

we had a couple of bulls'eyes

forester pin, tool box done, bird feeder done

patrol assignments, patrol animal (bald Eagle) and patrol flag made

buckets and frame holding up nicely

BTW

I have a FANTASTIC 11 year old Den Chief

and I have no idea how a patrol would be successful without one he is fantastic

I still walked 14,618 steps today

Wow

2010-06-09T06:14:00.001-05:00

I didn't know that http://www.coolquiz.com/trivia/explain/docs/mile.asp

Can Not Call Surgeon Back

2010-06-03T13:43:00.004-05:00

I feel like a failure. I get on the scale and I want to cry. I pull on the clothes that I could pull off without unbuttoning last year and I want to cry.

what happened? first off, people do not change. if they were worriers before, they will be worriers again. if they were stress-o-phobics before, they will be again. what do I do? I put everyone else before me. I am so afraid of being selfish that I sabotage my own health. why? I do not know, because it is easier?

It is easier to empty the dishwasher than to argue with the kids to do it. I hire people to mow the lawn, because it is easier than fighting with the kids to do it and I know that I would juts mow it myself if I didn't hire it out.

so about my health, getting down to the crux of the situation: stress and oxytocin, definitely part of it. Kirkland Trail Mix definitely part of it. diabetes and hypoglycemia most definitely part of it. homeschooling with Magnus and Jordan not helping matters, I rarely "get out of the house" or away from my desk, but that could be an excuse and I am just not in the mood to get away from my desk.

Moving, I put on a Pedometer and I walk 11475 steps a day...
I keep track of what I eat at MyPyramid:

I just need about 4 more hours in a day

2010-05-14T00:38:00.003-05:00

I swear I am losing my mind these days. it has just been crazy here, it was much more so when your grandma and grandpa Sherman were here, but even now with Erik, Magnus and Jordan it is still busy.

Today, I woke up, made Erik a turkey, cheese and lettuce sandwich for lunch. he likes to have a chocolate chip protein bar and a chocolate milk for lunch. He eats toast for breakfast. I fill his water bottle up each morning so that he doesn't get thirsty all day. I brushed his hair, and he made it to the bus on time. The bus comes at 7:32 am

I made Jordan a breakfast of milk and sliced apples. I have a slicer that takes the core out at the time, it doesn't waste much using that tool. Sometimes, I put peanut butter on the plate for Jordan to dip his apples into. Magnus doesn't eat breakfast until closer to 10 am.

Then I have to make papa and me some coffee, I like a scoop of chocolate in mine with some cream and sugar. I usually have a cheese stick for breakfast.

I print out some coloring sheets for Jordan to work on, and then it is time for Magnus and I to start on his Math. He is learning how to multiply, divide and about fact families. Science is his very favorite subject, writing is the one that he dreads.

I had to turn on the soaker hoses since it has been so hot and the grass is starting to dry up, it is starting to turn all brown from the heat and sunshine. Today we played putt putt golf, and had pizza with our local congressman. We played with a bunch of other home schooled children today, Magnus was nervous at first, but after a couple of hours, he was running and playing and didn't want to leave. but we had to.

we had to get the car alarm fixed at the mechanic shop. and then we had to drop off a package for photos for a customer. and then we had to drop off a case of pop at Erik's school for the Parent Teacher Organization fund raiser tomorrow night. we had to stop at the store and pick up some chocolate chips because Papa ATE all of the ones that I had set aside to make cookies tomorrow. he is just crazy.

We picked Erik up early so that he could get changed into his scout clothes before we met up with his den go to on a long hike along the creek. it was just like when you go on walks with us down by the river. And guess what? Magnus, Erik and Jordan picked blackberries and ate them while we were out hiking. how crazy is that? you do not get blackberries until the first week of august and we have them here the second week of May. Thank goodness we took water bottles because it was crazy hot here, it was pretty close to 90'F today and I was melting.

We had to hurry back so that we could stop at the library to get Erik some books that he has reserved, he is reading Japanese animae and learning how to draw the characters. we had to really really rush so that Erik could make it to swim practice by 5 pm, he has to swim and swim and swim, a whole bunch of laps. it makes him really really tired but he is getting much faster each time he works on it. he can swim butterfly, backstroke, breast stroke and freestyle.

after swim practice, we went to the park so that Magnus and Jordan could swing and play on the toys. they got to play with the two boys that live across the street from our house, Nicholas is one year younger than Magnus and Sean is one year older than Jordan. Finally we had to go home and do you know what Sverre had done? he had made spaghetti and it was really really good. everyone had some and Erik had two plates full.

Today everyone got a shower. Magnus and Erik took REALLY REALLY long ones. I think that they ran all the water out taking such long showers. I had to snuggle with Jordan in my lap for 10 minutes before he went to bed and Magnus was so upset over something that I had to snuggle him to sleep, and that took forever.

I was able to get on the computer and edit some images for my clients, and get some orders printed and shipped. That is pretty much how every day goes, busy busy busy.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T19:45:00.003-05:00

Things My Mother Taught Me
1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."

2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
"Because I said so, that's why."

5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
'If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."

6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

7. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

8. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

9. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

16. My mother ! taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, They are going to freeze that way."

19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"

20. My mother taught me HUMOUR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

25. My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"

26. And my favorite: My mother taught me about INTEREST.
"everything that you go away with, you will pay for with interest with those kids that are now running around YOU.

Woodbadge SR1024

2010-05-02T20:13:00.004-05:00

yes, I have crossed over to the dark side. I am now in the final stages of my woodbadge.

vision statement is written.
training is over.
campfire skit is sung
project is complete and presented
tents are folded and chuck box inventory is complete
ticket is written

I am EXHAUSTED.

BTW:
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
When I was just a wee wee tot,
My mama took me from my wee wee cot,
She put me on my wee wee pot,
To see if I would wee or not.
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
But when she found that I would not,
She took me from my wee wee pot,
She put me back in my wee wee cot,
And I gave her all I'd got.
Wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee
wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee wee

LOL

2010-04-22T22:20:00.000-05:00

George Carlin on Global Warming

Hungry

2010-04-19T10:32:00.002-05:00

Sverre made me a wrap yesterday, Green Leaf Lettuce, Grilled Chicken sprinkled with Carroll Shelby spice (Cumin, onion, garlic) I tried to get him to consider cheese and ranch dressing.

Now I am hungry for some

Homemade beef noodle soup

beef stew with carrots, onions, bean sprouts and flat rice noodles

Ingredients

For the Broth:

5 lbs beef marrow bones
3 lbs. of Beef Shank
1 large Yellow Onion
1 piece of ginger root
8 whole cloves
1 1 2 4 inch cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon of coriander seeds
4 peppercorns
1 inch chunk of yellow rock sugar
6 star anise
4 tablespoons of fish sauce

For The Bowls:

1 -Pkg of Bean Sprouts
1 -Bunch Cilantro
1 -Bunch Culantro
1 -Bunch Thai Basil
2 -Serrano or Jalapeño Pepper sliced
2 -Limes quartered
1 -Large white Onion halved and sliced thin
4 -Scallions sliced thin
1 -Pkg of Beef or Beef Tendon Meatballs quartered
2 -Reserved Beef Shanks from making soup sliced at room temp.
1 ¾ lb. Flank Steak or London Broil sliced very thi
1 (Freeze steak slightly to make thin cutting easy)
1 pkg Rice Noodles Ban Pho vermicelli rice sticks
1 Rice Wine Vinegar
1 Fish Sauce
1 Hoisin Sauce
1 Sriracha Sauce

Preparation

Start by sticking the whole cloves into the onion. Place onion and ginger root on grill and lightly char. We are not trying to burn here, more like grilling the pieces so don't rush this part. You can also do this over a burner or under a low broil setting in the oven. Just keep watch over them so they don't burn. When charred, set aside.

Combine the coriander seeds, star anise, and cinnamon stick in a small skillet. Toast the spices over medium heat tossing and stirring gently ever so often so they do not burn. Do this until slightly browned and fragrant. Set aside.

In a large pot (I use an 8 qt stock pot which is just barely big enough) place the bones and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil and boil vigorously for about 4 minutes. Turn heat off and pour bones, beef shank and water into a colander and drain bones. Wash pot out completely and dry. Carefully rinse off bones and shank of any scum or impurities with cool water and place back in pot. Fill again with cool water and add the ginger, onion, yellow rock sugar, fish sauce and spices and bring back to a boil. Turn heat down immediately and simmer for an hour. Remove beef shank after one hour and submerse in a bowl of cold water (I add ice to make it really cold). This will congeal the fat and juices in the beef. Let cool for about 15 minutes and drain, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Keep simmering the rest of the broth for about 3 hours more. the actual simmer time depends on patience. There are stories told of traditional Vietnamese cooking methods that let this broth simmer for 24 hours over charcoal fires. I would do this as well, if I had a decent charcoal fire and 24 hours to watch it. When the simmering is complete, turn off your heat and using a slotted spoon, remove bones, spices, onion and garlic and discard them. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer (use cheese cloth if your strainer isn't fine enough) and after the pot has cooled a bit, place pot of strained broth into the refrigerator. The next day, you will notice some of the fat has congealed on the top of the broth. Skim the fat off with spoon and discard. Your broth is now ready to be used. It can be frozen for a later use, or used right away.

Okay, at this point you should have what amounts to a stockpot of broth that has been skimmed of it's fat. Sometimes the broth will take on the characteristic of Jello when it's chilled, which is a good thing. It means that you were able to extract all of the good stuff from the bones which directly relates to flavor.

Begin by heating the broth. Meanwhile, assemble a garnish plate of the sprouts, cilantro, basil, peppers, and limes. I use a standard size dinner plate but you can do this on smaller plates for each person if you choose. On another plate I usually squeeze off enough Sriracha and Hoisin Sauce to cover each half of a small plate for each guest. This way the can dip whatever they want without fear! You may also leave the bottles on the table for refilling. Place the sliced onion in a small shallow bowl and cover with the vinegar. Place a pinch of salt and stir gently. You can do this ahead of time by as much as an hour or so and let sit at room temp.

Cook the noodles as per the instructions. Rice noodles cook slightly different than Americanized pasta so if it's your first time, you need to pay attention to cooking times and doneness. I usually cook them by boiling water and the pouring the water over the noodles in a bowl and then letting them sit for about ten to fifteen minutes. Then I rinse them under cold water and drain keeping them close at hand for serving. If you use this method, you want to make sure you have pot of boiling water at hand to quickly re-heat the noodles prior to plating (or bowling as the case may be). You can also use this boiling water to pre-heat your bowls because no one likes a cold bowl of pho.

Before you assemble the bowls, drain the onions. Add to the bowl some of the re-heated noodles on the bottom, some of the now pickled white onions, sliced cooked beef, sliced raw beef, and some of the scallions. Add the very hot broth to the bowl. This will cook the beef giving it a slight gray appearance.

Eating pho is a personal process. Some add sauces such as fish, Sriracha, or Hoisin directly to the broth. Add a few leaves of basil and cilantro at a time. Adding to many cool things will cool the broth so use your herbs wisely.

Cuisine: Vietnamese Main Ingredient: Beef

Meat Loaf "Muffins"

2010-04-16T22:22:00.000-05:00

1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely-chopped carrot
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, extra lean
1 cup ketchup, divided
1 cup finely crushed fat-free saltine crackers (about 20) or fine bread crumbs
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
Salt to taste
2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 12 muffin cups with non-fat cooking spray.

Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, oregano, and garlic, and sauté 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let onion mixture cool.

In a large bowl, combine onion mixture, ground beef, 1/2 cup ketchup, crushed crackers or bread crumbs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, and eggs. NOTE: I like to use my hands for mixing meatloaf.

Spoon meat mixture into prepared muffin cups. Top each with 2 teaspoons ketchup. Bake at 350° for 25 minutes or until a meat thermometer registers 160°F. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes.

Sensory Processing Disorder

2010-04-06T01:19:00.003-05:00

Good news... Your frustration and confusion about your child - who may have Sensory Processing Disorder - is almost over!

Finally!... A thorough explanation and a name for the behaviors and developmental concerns that exist - which seemed almost impossible to understand or cope with.

When parents first find out about sensory processing disorders, their reaction usually comes as: a "flash", a "light bulb moment", the "Aha!", "So that explains it!", "Oh, so now I understand!", "Why didn't someone tell me about this years ago?"

1. Hypersensitivity To Touch (Tactile Defensiveness)

__ resists friendly or affectionate touch from anyone besides parents or siblings (and sometimes them too!)

__ dislikes kisses, will "wipe off" place where kissed

__ prefers hugs

__ a raindrop, water from the shower, or wind blowing on the skin may feel like torture and produce adverse and avoidance reactions

__ may overreact to minor cuts, scrapes, and or bug bites

__ resists brushing teeth and is extremely fearful of the dentist

__ avoids touching certain textures of material (blankets, rugs, stuffed animals)

__ refuses to wear new or stiff clothes, clothes with rough textures, turtlenecks, jeans, hats, or belts, etc.

__ is a picky eater, only eating certain tastes and textures; mixed textures tend to be avoided as well as hot or cold foods; resists trying new foods

__ complains about having hair brushed; may be very picky about using a particular brush

__ excessively ticklish

__ distressed about having face washed

__ distressed about having hair, toenails, or fingernails cut

3. Poor Tactile Perception And Discrimination:

__ may be afraid of the dark

__ continues to mouth objects to explore them even after age two

1. Hypersensitivity To Movement (Over-Responsive):

__ may physically cling to an adult they trust

__ may have disliked being placed on stomach as an infant

__ bites or sucks on fingers

1. Hypersensitivity To Sounds (Auditory Defensiveness):

__ fearful of the sound of a car wash, cafeteria noise, classroom noise, car radio too loud

__ frequently asks people to be quiet; i.e., stop making noise, talking, or singing

__ runs away, cries, and/or covers ears with loud or unexpected sounds

Social, Emotional, Play, And Self-Regulation Dysfunction:

Social:

__ prefers playing by self with objects or toys rather than with people

__ does not seek out connections with familiar people

Emotional:

__ difficulty accepting changes in routine (to the point of tantrums)

__ gets easily frustrated

__ functions best in small group or individually

__ variable and quickly changing moods; prone to outbursts and tears

__ prefers to play on the outside, away from groups, or just be an observer

__ difficulty appropriately making needs known

Play:

__ difficulty with imitative play (over 10 months)

__ wanders aimlessly without purposeful play or exploration (over 15 months)

Project

2010-03-27T17:44:00.001-05:00

Wanna help??

Back to Basics

2010-03-09T10:58:00.000-06:00

I got my wake up call about two years ago, the weight was going up, but only a pound a month, no big deal right. I hit the snooze button

I got another wake up call when I couldn't comfortably get into my sexy jeans, no big deal right. I hit the snooze button

I went on vacation and got blisters and open sores where my waist band rubbed my tummy over Christmas break. I started skipping desert, but no big deal right. I hit the snooze button.

For me, it seems that March is my magical month that I need to DO SOMETHING. it was in 2006 when I made a choice, and it was in 2010 when I had to REALLY make a choice.

for some reason I was thinking that if I never stretched my pouch, I would never have to DIET again right? grrr

so naturally, I like to used my hypoglycemia as an excuse to graze, after all, I have issues, right? well, the more I cut back on SIMPLE carbs, and incorporate more Proteins, I am seeing less peaks and valley's and while I am still eating about 3 snacks and 3 meals a day, I am still keeping under my daily calorie goal.

Now I didnt move that much when I was first post op, but I did move, it was so much easier to just think that I could coast, but I rode a bike once in a while, I did walk, once in a while, I did go out and hang up laundry, once in a while, and all that did add up, whereas in the last year, I have been hiding behind my computer, holed up in the school room, and avoiding people.

Excuses? I do not have a car, I can not leave. I am going through menopause and I do not want to go out and talk to people. I do not have money, I can not buy anything. i am homeschooling my child, he needs to be home studying. I have my grand child and he can not ride a bike with me. all EXCUSES.

I could ride when the dad comes home. I could do something about the mess that is climbing up around my ears. so now I have shared my spiel and it is time for me to leave you and go declutter this house.

by the way, cutting back and making small changes this week, I had an unusually good week. -5 lbs. this week. I will most likely plateau, but eventually it will go down as we all know.

move to lose

2010-03-07T21:26:00.000-06:00

move to lose

THIS IS SO STINKING HARD!

2010-03-06T06:28:00.000-06:00

you know, I would never have even concieved that I was a food a holic but the stress over the last 2 years had completely done me in.

I have regained 30 lbs past my goal weight, not the lowest weight, we will not even GO THERE.

I have restarted fit day and I brought out the scales and the itty bitty bowls and am recording and evaluating my life style down to the gram.

Calories
975

Fat 58.9 523 55 %
Carbohydrate 81.3 310 32 %
Protein 30.8 121 13 %

I struggled all day with snacking and portions and desperately hated every moment of it.

there is no excuse, not the 3 year old that can not walk as fast or as far, not the bike that doesn't have a trailer hitch, not the hypoglycemia that spins my world without notice, it was SUCH a HARD day. I was tired and angry and frustrated with myself all day. and let me be the first to say that menopause sucks, I am swathed in wool and freezing to death and it is a balmy 49F outside. I am miserable.

I already paid for this tool, the first year could have killed me, and the tool works I just do not seem to be able to completely break away from the cycle of stress eat gain stress eat gain. part of me hates that I have to revisit portions and wow did I have a moment when I had to start measuring yesterday. I had been okay with most of my portions but I was able to sneak in extras. Now with fitday I am tracking and keeping the portions down and of course this site has back to basics since we are not alone and that is free. I like free.

4 years ago I had surgery and beat my goal.

today I am not not able to get into the fat pants that I had for after goal. it has been a crushing realization for me. I am headed back up and find it all to easy to excuse each pound that I pack on.

yesterday, I made a choice, and going back to the basics and using fitday and finding things to do outside of the house and away from the computer so that I am not watching the clock all the time waiting for my next snack.

I have regained 30 lbs over my goal weight. fortunately, I never abused my pouch, so I am good there, I just have to watch my portions, dodge my snacks, and cut out all the fluffy carbs. I know the drill, but I do not want to go it alone

vitamins.. fluids.. and distractions.. I just need to counteract all the stress of an extra large family and the tendency to put out each fire before seeing to my own needs and that was right where I was this time four years ago. letting the kids dictate the emergency instead of my putting my own oxygen mask on first.

happy to say that my house is now freshly painted and looks great. and I was able to stay under my target goal of calories today, on top of that the calories burned exceeded the calories consumed. 2 days down, and a million to go. I have given myself 15 weeks to lose the 30 lbs.

it is hard to say no, but when you see so many giving so much, you feel awful if you do not give yourself.

I have a son in law that is preparing for his second tour in Afghanistan, I volunteered to take care of the three year old since my daughter is working two jobs. little did I know that the little pill is THREE and an ONLY child and has been around the Platoon of MARINES for so long that he is now very aggressive, has a little potty mouth on him, and needs to learn the word NO and to be much more civilized before he can be accepted into polite company. he seems to have learned every bad trait of an enlisted person and none of the ones that would have come from his great grandfather that was an officer. it will take me quite some time to bring about a positive change in him. But a change is needed.

I have a special needs daughter, she is screamingly bipolar, she is doing her very best, she is living on her own in another state, going to college full time, coping with a lot of challenges that she can face for the most part 80% of the time in her TIGGER state, and the other 20%, sends her spiraling into a depressed EEYORE state. when she has money, she is the hostess with the mostess, and when she is flat broke, she is desperately depressed. I am helping out with expenses like books but she is responsible for everything else and it is hard to be so tough on her, but if I were to cover ALL of her expenses, she would take advantage of that and take more. But I feel that she will appreciate it more if she has of the hardship of going to college, not just the showing up when she feels like it.

And then there are the boys that are still at home, we are still struggling with all the life lessons that we have to teach. Economy and responsibility, empathy and sympathy, manners and civility. it seems like a never ending battle, but I do not have time to let up and let issues slide. Being active in swimteam, tri-athalon-ing, scouting, and homeschooling, and running a house is a full time job. Even so, I had to let go of a lot of 'volunteering' requests, from church and community was extremely hard, but I had to do it. many assume that a stay-a-home has unlimited time to give, but sadly, that is not the case.

Even today, as I have 1 week to prepare my house for my parents to come for an extended stay ( a couple of months) I have already been up for 2 hours, cleaned two rooms of the house, (kitchen is like a never ending battle) and finally got some me time. I have to constantly evaluate my priorities, what is most important to me, that I am freezing to death, and need some more carbs in my body, or that I need to lose some of the extra pounds? I should just give up and go down stairs and make some oatmeal, accept that this is my life, and eat, even though I have been putting it off for two hours, and I SHOULD be able to go another.

having to choose between being a healthy weight and surviving hypoglycemia and all that entails, being lactose intolerant and the diet restrictions that leaves me with, THIS IS SO STINKING HARD!

UPWARD spiral

2010-03-05T08:01:00.004-06:00

My Starting Weight

Start Weight:

Start Date:

My Goal

Goal Weight:

Goal Date:

Your BMI:

28.19

A BMI between 25 and 30 is considered overweight.

The healthy weight range for your height is between

118.1

lbs and

159.6

lbs.
Your weight is 20.4 lbs above the healthy range.

My Goal BMI

23.49

A BMI between 18.5 and 25 is considered healthy.

FOOD INTAKE:
3/4 oz Monterrey Jack cheese
1 oz half & half
20 oz coffee
3 vitamins
1 b12 sublingual
salmon patty
slice of cheese
two leaves of lettuce
22 oz of propel
one half brautworst, no bun
2 oz thuringer
2 calcium chews

total calories intake (consumed): 994
total calories spent (moving): 1594

declutter

2010-03-04T15:17:00.001-06:00

Provident living:
I am married to a European that does not believe in shopping beyond tomorrow, let alone next week or next month or next year, if he had his way, he would buy only for the next two days, drives me absolutely insane. I know what our menu is, I know that we will need XX by Monday Night, why wait to buy it? but he insists. that really does help. know your weekly menu, and while boring, it helps to take the anxiety away.
[Sunday]----[Monday]-----[Tuesday]-----------[Wednesday]---------------[Thursday]--------[Friday]--------[Saturday]
-[Pizza]----[Mac-n-chez]--[Tacos]----[grilled-Chez-n-Tomato-soup]--[Spaghetti]--[fish-n-veggies]--[crepes]
breakfast and lunch are the same, oatmeal and pbj, knowing that this is every single week, cuts down on the grocery bill.

declutter:
I can not stress how much easier my life became when I let go, and gave it all away. I was a stash and hoarder as well, I had the next three sizes for the kids, and yes, I saved a lot of money by recycling clothes and toys, but I put my health in jeapardy with stress of living in rooms with stuff stuffed and piled and stashed, and it was not healthy for me. my children have spotless rooms because they simply do not have a lot of material possessions and it is so much easier for all of us when I can walk in, and in 5 minutes have it picked up and company ready.

Flylady:
this program took me about 5 years to master, but it was well worth it, I still have hot spots around the house, but not like I had. take a moment and look at your house in the background in family photos, you would be surprised how messy mine was. I am ashamed that I let it get that way, but I didn't understand my mom when she was constantly harping on me to clean my room, exactly what she meant. it was not that things were out, they were, it was not that things were unorganized, they were not organized, but it was that I was storing things that didn't have value to me and had no room for the things that did. I went through and if it didn't have a story, it went and if hadn't been used in the last 18 months, it went. the only things that I have not purged is the books, but even those, I have filtered and donated a lot of the ones that are just not relevant and kept the classics in our library.

age appropriate homeschooling:
It seems to me, and this is just an opinion, worth about $.02, your children are still very young, and are not into the hard core academics yet, so I would work on just the basic basic basics.. reading, writing, and rithmatic. when all else fails, take them to the park. today's Pre-K lesson was a puzzle, and we were done for the day. ;-) our goal today is that I get through it without yelling anymore, and they learn not to scratch, whine, or steal my crackers.

My own battles:
my first kids, the twins, were LIVE WIRES and nearly drove me nuts with their precocious behavior, they were so bored. they needed to run and be free and I needed to take a nap, it is a wonder that we all survived those first 10 years. they were a lot more than I could handle and I still am not sure I was a good mom. but looking back, I was way too involved in their happiness. and too little involved in my own. and seriously, hats off to those moms that are 'dedicated' to their children's happiness, but I think (and this is my own irreverent interpretation) too many kids today have been led to believe that everyone will constantly and consistently put thier needs first because their parents made it a life long goal and seriously. That may be doing them a disservice. my husband's boss couldnt care less if he is happy and fulfilled at work. and in all seriously, when he looks at me that he is not happy at work, I tell him to suck it up and walk it off, we need the paycheck and until he force him out the door with his last check in his hand, he is going to go t work and keep money coming in to pay for luxuries like toilet paper and soap. I will do without a dryer, a car, and meat each week, but I strongly believe that it is not just my entitlement to stay home with my kids, but my duty. he may think that he wants me to go to work, but he truly doesn't want my job. to his credit, he does cook 5 nights a week, he does do laundry every weekend, and he will go to the store twice a week, but when it comes to homework, public or home schooled, activities, and play dates, parties and scouts, he is uninvolved and that will not cut it.

So frequently I forget to put myself first, to make sure that I am getting enough rest, that I am getting the right nutrition. and the right amount of mental health days. my work is not my hobby ad my kids are not my work. I need to get out and get away. sadly, I lost all my girls night out buddies and I seriously need to get a new group before I loose my mind and my fragile grip on reality. today I took some time, took a shower, didnt care if the house burnt down just so long as they left me alone to wash. it was a shock how much better I felt after I plucked out the greys, and washed what was left. I am not nearly as angry and I made it another hour.

2010-03-03T15:12:00.001-06:00

Sunny lunch outside

Think before I eat

2010-03-02T11:39:00.000-06:00

PBS

2010-02-10T19:13:00.002-06:00

two stations for Houston:
8.1 more kid friendly
8.2 more craft friendly
I swear, you could get a college degree just watching PBS... it is amazing how much stuff is in there...

stinking menapause

2010-02-01T21:07:00.001-06:00

Magnus: had art today, he used clay and made a pokemon ball, painted it with acrylic paint, he and I pedals our bikes 6 miles total. He is ANXIOUS for Jordan to come and stay. we got a full size bed today for them to share.

Erik: had school today, he brought home math, social studies, and spelling for homework. his little buddy Nick is over, but I had to tear him away so that he could get his homework done. he is getting private writing help from the vice principal so that he passes his state exams in April.

Naomi, I have no idea, I have barely been able to get them to answer the phone since her birthday. do not know what thier deal is other than I have not been up there since February so they must be getting peeved at me. but that was thier own fault they said they were sending her here for the summer last year, and then they didn't follow through.

Krystal is working two full time management jobs, taco bell and commissary. she is extremely stressed and cranky. Jason is working extra hours to prepare for Afghanistan, they are putting a lot of stress and pressure on him so that he gets used to it and if he breaks it will not be under combat conditions. Jordan is getting caught in the middle and cries a lot. Krys will leave California at 5 am, arrive here at 2 pm, and fly back out at 3 pm, she will not even leave the gate, just walk off the plane, hand me Jordan and his bag, and get back on and leave. we are starting taxes tonight.

Jasmine is doing really well. she has only missed one lecture due to expecting her room mate to drive her. she now has an unlimited bus pass so that she can come and go and it is all paid for. I do have an alarm that goes to her phone 15 minutes before each class to remind her to stop gabbing and get to class. she was up really late the other night working on math, it was so cute. she has no running vehicle but since she is in town, she can get anywhere now with her pass. it is good for the whole semester for the mountain lion. the neighbors freaked out about her dog, the landlord told her she had 24 hours to get out, she has calmed them all down and is working through it. we are starting taxes tonight.

sverre is in a good mood considering that his boss is no longer with his group and he has a new boss. He adopted / ordered me a new desktop computer and it will be born this week in China and we will finalize the adoption this week. ;)

as for the house, we have acquired a 'full' sized mattress and boxsprings, I thought it would be a FUN project for dad and me to make a LOFT with it so that the dresser could go under it and the mattress ontop, but I will need someone to help hold the boards while I cut them on my fancy smancy table saw.

as for me, flipping menopause.. I was in a MOOD last week, fortunately, it only lasted 5 days. whew. I think I need some iron tablets or liver and onions.

Zodiac because I don't want to work today

2010-01-27T08:50:00.000-06:00

The Archer
November 23 to December 21

Traditional
Sagittarius Traits

Optimistic and freedom-loving
Jovial and good-humored
Honest and straightforward
Intellectual and philosophical

On the dark side....

Blindly optimistic and careless
Irresponsible and superficial
Tactless and restless

Sagittarius About Your Sign...

Sagittarians have a positive outlook on life, are full of enterprise, energy, versatility, adventurousness and eagerness to extend experience beyond the physically familiar. They enjoy travelling and exploration, the more so because their minds are constantly open to new dimensions of thought. They are basically ambitious and optimistic, and continue to be so even when their hopes are dashed. Their strongly idealistic natures can also suffer many disappointments without being affected. They are honorable, honest, trustworthy, truthful, generous and sincere, with a passion for justice. They are usually on the side of the underdog in society they will fight for any cause they believe to be just, and are prepared to be rebellious. They balance loyalty with independence.

Sagittarians are usually modest and are often religious, with a strong sense of morality, though they tend to overemphasize the ethical codes they follow and worship beliefs about God rather than God Himself. This means that, negatively, they regard rigid, unloving, intolerant adherence to ritual and conventional codes as more important than the truths they symbolize or embody. They sometimes pay lip service to religions and political parties in which they have ceased to believe because the outward forms satisfy them, yet they may not hesitate to switch allegiance in politics or change their system of belief if they see personal advantage to themselves in doing so.

They have both profound and widely ranging minds, equipped with foresight and good judgement, and they can be witty conversationalists. They love to initiate new projects (they make excellent researchers) and have an urge to understand conceptions that are new to them. they think rapidly, are intuitive and often original, but are better at adapting than inventing and are at their best when working with colleagues of other types of character that compliment their own. They are strong-willed and good at organizing, a combination that gives them the ability to bring any project they undertake to a successful conclusion. Their generosity can be balanced by their extreme care at handling their resources.

Sagittarians are ardent, sincere and straightforward in love, normally conventional and in control of their sexual natures. Yet if thwarted, they may easily allow their failure to embitter their whole lives or they may revenge themselves upon the opposite sex by becoming cynically promiscuous. They are more apt then the average to make an uncongenial alliance.
If their marriages are successful, they will be faithful spouses and indulgent parents; but their innate restlessness will inspire them to use even the most satisfying ménage as a base from which to set out on their travels. They need to fell free and are often faced with the choice of allowing their careers to take over their lives at the expense of the love of their spouse and family. Sagittarian women are the counterparts of their men; even if they have no career to rival their love, they find it difficult to express affection and may run the risk of being thought frigid.

In other personal relationships they are reliable, seldom betraying any trust given to them. They can, however, be impulsively angry and both male and female Sagittarians know how to be outspoken and exactly what expressions will hurt their adversaries most. On the other hand they are magnanimous in forgiving offenses and are responsible when looking after the elderly in the family.

Their gifts fit Sagittarians for a number of widely differing professions. They are natural teachers and philosophers with a talent for expounding the moral principles and laws which seem to explain the universe. This gift enables them to be successful churchmen on the one hand and scientists on the other. The law and politics also suit them, as does public service, social administration, public relations and advertising. Travel and exploration naturally appeal to such restless souls and, if their opportunities are limited, they may find something of travel and change of scene in the armed forces or through working as a travelling salesman. Others may make fine musicians and, in the days before automobiles, they were said to be successful at horse trading and all activities, including sporting ones, concerning horses. This has been translated in modern terms into an interest in cars and aircraft - and again with emphasis on the sporting side racing, rallying etc. They are said to make good sports coaches, but their tastes in this direction may lead them into imprudent gambling, though the gambling instinct may be sublimated by carrying it out professionally as a bookmaker.

The vices to which Sagittarians are prone are anger they tend to flare up over trifles; impatience - they want to rush every new project through immediately and demand too much of colleagues who cannot work at the pace they require; and scorn of the inadequacies of others while expecting fulsome recognition of their own efforts. They may in one sense deserve recognition, because in completing a major project they will sacrifice their health and family relationships; in their family's eyes they may merit condemnation.

They can be exacting, domineering and inconsiderate in the work place; and boastful, vulgar and extravagant in their private lives. Their restlessness, if excessive, can jeopardize more than their own stability. some Sagittarians risk becoming playboys, wasting their lives away in frivolous pursuits. Others can develop a moralizing, religious fanaticism or else turn into hypocrites, their inner prudishness disguised by an outward appearance of joviality. Another side of the religiosity which is a danger in Sagittarians is superstition.
Possible Health Concerns...

Sagittarius governs the hips, thighs and sacral area; subjects suffer from ailments of the hips and thighs and are liable to sciatica and rheumatism. An alleged deficiency of silicon in their physiques can give them poor skin, nails and hair.

As they are often sportsmen indulging in dangerous pursuits, they are prone to accidents which arise from these. The ancient astrologers mention falls from horses and hurts from them and other four-footed beasts. The taking of risks in other sports is a danger to the modern Sagittarian, and he is also liable to accidents with fire and heat.

horoscopes

* LIKES Traveling
* getting to the heart of the matter
* Freedom
* Laws and meanings
* the general 'feel' of things

* DISLIKES Off the wall theories
* being tied down domestically
* Being constrained
* cooling your heels
* bothered with details

who am I

2010-01-20T11:18:00.003-06:00

my husband would say that I am a slacker mom

my adult children would say that I am a helicopter mom

my preteen children would say that I am a photographer mom

on a different blog, someone just wrote:
As you go through your day and week at your job, think about the good things that your it provides you – whether it be a sense of accomplishment when you complete a project, the laughs that you share with your co-workers or just the money you take home. Going through life with an appreciative frame of mind can make a world of difference – especially at work! (Note: I do realize that not everyone has a job in the sense I’m referring to. But the same principles apply for those looking for work, going to school or staying home with your kids. Your job is whatever you consider it to be.)

and I had to think about that a minute. What am I and where am I.

what is a slacker mom? I prefer

Zen Mom

How do you do it? Even when explosions are all around, you are able to take a deep cleansing breath and chant your mantra "this too shall pass." You are a calming influence on your kids in a hectic world.

He really just wishes that I had a crappy job that I hated as well and that I made my own spending money and some for him too. heehee good luck with that. I LOVE my job. and it happens to be:

unregistered teacher and learning coach
undocumented chauffeur and navigational expert
unpaid childhood therapist and unorthodox priest
unprofessional nutritionist and physical therapy motivational instructor
plump and not so starving artist and family historian
overzealous activity and travel logistics director
unregistered nurse & medical professional
unmitigated family dispute judge and jury
unlicensed youth guidance counselor and Scout Advancement chairperson
enthusiastic but ineffective family economist
dreaded life skills youth trainer
reluctant hygiene policy maker and enforcer
master nuclear family unit time management coordinator
kitchen and lavatory faerie
outside labor supervisor

and what am a I doing right now? typing this rather than do my job for the day: uncertified public accountant and tax preparer. okay, I have avoided this long enough. back to the books.

Very Pleasant Zen

2010-01-19T12:06:00.000-06:00

Cod Soufflé

2010-01-04T03:11:00.000-06:00

Ingredients

For the Roux
30g/1oz butter
30g/1oz flour
400ml/14fl oz milk

For the soufflé
6 egg yolks, beaten
salt and freshly ground black pepper
40g/1½oz butter, softened
110g/4oz White cheese, finely grated
125g/4½oz cod fillet
300ml/11fl oz double cream
8 egg whites (frozen and then thawed)
1 tbsp fresh dill, roughly chopped

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190C/380F/Gas 5.
2. To make the Roux, melt the butter in a small heavy-based pan over a medium heat.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the flour. Return the pan to a low heat and cook for two minutes, whisking continuously.
4. Remove from the heat again and add the milk, stirring constantly.
5. Place over a medium heat and bring to the boil, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously. Allow to cool slightly.
6. For the soufflé, beat the egg yolks into the cheese and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover with cling film and set aside at room temperature.
7. Meanwhile, line pan with baking paper and spray with cooking spray.
8. Sprinkle a handful of the grated gruyère into the dish, rotating it to coat the insides.
9. Place the cod into a small pan. Add the cream and place over a low heat. When the cream starts to just come to the boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for two minutes.
10. Turn off the heat and leave to rest until cool enough to handle, then remove the cod and flake the fish into a bowl with your fingertips, removing any bones you may find. Return the fish to the heated cream.
11. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt, until soft peaks form when the whisk is removed.
12. Place one third of the egg whites into the roux mixture and stir well.
13. Add the roux and egg white mixture to the bowl of remaining egg whites and fold in very gently, adding the white cheese and dill as you fold.
14. Half-fill prepared soufflé dish with the soufflé mixture, then spoon in equal amounts of the cod and cream mixture.
15. Fill the dish with the remaining soufflé.
16. Place into the oven to cook for 7-8 minutes, or until risen and golden.

Ongeltveitsjøen, Fjell, Hordaland, Norway

2009-12-22T08:24:00.004-06:00

The cultural landscape and society through the ages The trail goes from hamlet to hamlet through an impressive cultural landscape.
The scenery alternates between infelds with farm buildings and small fshing communities, and outlying heathlands.
At Vindenesstraumen, settlements have been found that may be more than 9,000 years old. Finds from the Neolithic Age have been made at both Ågotnes and Vindenes. The remains of house foundations in outlying
land at Angeltveit and the cairn on the summit of Spjeldsfjellet probably date from the Viking Era.

Things to do In Klein

2009-12-09T18:39:00.000-06:00

LOWES KIDS CRAFT
Christmas Ornaments Saturday December 12, 2009 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Pet Treat Keeper Saturday December 19, 2009 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

HOME DEPOT KIDS CRAFT
Wooden Perennial Box Calendar Saturday January 2, 2010 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

PEARL MUSEUME OF FINE ARTS
Saturday, December 12th
10am-5pm Winter Fun Scene Art Project in the Northgate Conference Room
11:30am Holiday Performance with the Texas Medical Center Orchestra Chamber Players in the Main Gallery. The Chamber Players will play a variety of string and wind ensembles that will perform festive music for the season, both classical pieces and arrangements of popular Christmas carols.
12:30pm Look and Listen Tour with a museum docent in the Main Gallery
1:30pm Winter Scene Art Project
Holiday Performance with the Texas Medical Center Orchestra Chamber Players in the Main Gallery. The Chamber Players will play a variety of string and wind ensembles that will perform festive music for the season, both classical pieces and arrangements of popular Christmas carols.
Immediately Following the Performance: Hot Chocolate and Holiday Goodies in the Museum Lobby

NEXT MUSEUM FAMILY DAYS
Saturday, January 9
Saturday, February 13
Saturday, March 13

BARBARA BUSH LIBRARY
https://host4.evanced.info/harris/evanced/eventcalendar.asp?libnum=3
3rd Mondays: Elementary Book Club
Tuesdays: 4:30 - 5:30 Elementary Science & Games
Wednesdays: 5:30-6:30 Chess Club

JESSE JONES PARK
Saturday, December 12, 10 a.m.-noon. NATURE RANGERS. Kids ages 5-8
Saturday, December 12, 1-3 p.m SECOND SATURDAY SETTLERS: CHRISTMAS CHEER.

Saturday, January 9, 5:30 p.m. PIONEER CAMPFIRE: PEEL AND SQUEAL. campfire-baked potatoes, fixings, & bagpipe
Reservations required beginning Wed., Dec. 30.
Sunday, January 10, 2-4 p.m. SECOND SUNDAY PICKERS. Free folk concert
January 16 and 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION. Saturday and Sunday,
Saturday, January 16, 10 a.m PULP TO PAPER. Learn how to make your own paper creation. Reservations required beginning Wed., Jan. 6.
Saturday, January 23, 10 a.m. WOODPECKERS. Learn about the various species of woodpeckers 6+

Saturday, February 6, 7 p.m. STARGAZING. Learn about the planets, stars, and other celestial bodies with the help of the North Houston Astronomy Club. All ages. Reservations required beginning Wed., Jan. 27.
Saturday, February 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Homestead Heritage Day (PDF)

F.A.C.E.
A.D. Players presents The Secret Garden
10 a.m., Saturday, January 30, 2010 - Free Children's Concert
ArtsPower presents Jigsaw Jones: The Case of the Class Clown
10 a.m., Saturday, March 27, 2010 - Free Children's Series

MERCER ARBORETUM & BOTANICA GARDENS
Beginner Gardening - Taxonomy, Jan. 13 from noon a.m. to 2 p.m
Gardening CEU: Wildflowers for the Garden. Tue., Jan. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon
Gardening 101. Wed., Feb. 10 from noon to 2 p.m.
Japanese Maples. Sat., Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Continuing Education: Vegetable Gardening. Tue., Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Happy Birthday G'ma

2009-11-28T09:45:00.004-06:00

Movie night

2009-11-23T19:09:00.003-06:00

EUReKA...

The 'kids' are in the first season of eureka with collin ferguson./oh joy.

wretchedheathen

Favorite Riddle

My crew

Oh' Rome Moscato d'Asti

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 6

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 5

Great Commencement Speech:

Ellen DeGeneres: Define Your Own Success

Tom Brokaw: Know That Less Can Be More

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 4

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 3

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 2

5th Grade Supplemental Math - Week 1

Are you Kidding me?

words to live by

Mom's Night In

Wednesday

Ducking Responsibility

brilliant scouting ideas

The magic button — Make Everything OK

Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Who's YOUR momma?

time for an update

Go the F*ck to Sleep - read by Samuel L. Jackson.flv

Squash Patties

Ingredients:

Directions:

on my list to do today

Science my Favorite

okay, confirmation, I am not crazy, this is the way to teach now days. whew!

NIH Science Education Nation - Education Todayscience.education.nih.govPeople accustomed to a traditional science classroom where the teacher directly communicates factual information will likely be surprised if they find themselves in a science class that’s using inquiry-based learning.

Science.. my favorite

technology, my favorite

The Plan

Bawahahaha

wrap it up

Sad apple to Glad Apple

what if?

Master of Education (M. Ed.) in Gifted and Talented Education

The Department of Curriculum and Instruction offers this degree program.

Is this program for me?

What will I learn?

What can I do with my degree?

good watch

I'm Not Finished, Yet.

Friday

Everyone Loves Flowers

stress

BRØDRENE MYLIUS "Tele"

Digital Holiday Card

Another Birthday Coming up

Menu changes to Holiday

We Love China Gardens

Insanely Exhausted

End of family reunion dinner

Education.. not school

Island Girl Workouts - Tahitian Hip-Hop (Part 1)

Island Girl Workouts - Tahitian Hip-Hop (Part 2)

why virtual school

why electives

Fired up

Erik lake summervile

What Teachers Make

Starving

Easy to keep clean

All shiney and bright

Chit chat

family status...

As we draw Near Deployment 2.0

Taco Tuesday

what is for dinner?

Glacier Day 5

Up Close and Personal

Glacier Day 4

Glacier Day 3

Glacier Day 2

Glacier Day 1

Together for a Limited Time Engagement

woodbadge

Books from Wood Badge lessons

NIH Science Education Nation - Education Today
science.education.nih.gov
People accustomed to a traditional science classroom where the teacher directly communicates factual information will likely be surprised if they find themselves in a science class that’s using inquiry-based learning.