Rote memory of anything is unpopular these days. Why memorize anything when it can be at the fingertips of your smartphone in seconds? There was a time, into the early decades of the 20th century, when the memorization of poetry in school was mandatory. Educators knew that this not only helped children develop language skills and strengthen their brains, but even helped them internalize the themes of poetry. Teachers understood that when we learn something by heart, it becomes a part of who we are. “If we do not learn by heart, the heart does not feel the rhythms of poetry as echoes or variations of its own insistent ...Read More
What’s in Your Water? Heavy Metals and Fluoride (Part 2)
Heavy Metals Heavy metals include things like mercury, lead, copper, arsenic, and cadmium. The list of problems developed by heavy metals in your systems is almost too long to list, but includes things like autoimmune diseases, developmental problems, cancer, organ damage, and more. Children are particularly susceptible to disease formation from heavy metals in their system. Fluoride Fluoride is a a substance that many cities actually add to our water. We've heard most of our life that it's added because we need it for good dental health. Most people don't realize, it is fairly well documented that the ...Read More
Homeschooling 5th Grade Literature Book List
Bradley is 9 years old and age-wise, he's going into 4th grade, but he's been working a year ahead in literature since he began reading at an early age. My 5th grade literature book list is based off of the Veritas Press literature recommendations. 5th Grade Literature Book List Veritas Press has a huge list of recommended books. It's my understanding that they don't expect all students to read their entire list of books but offer a nice assortment for parents and students to choose from. These are my picks for Bradley this year. ...Read More
New Family Bible Study: The Heart of Humility
Last school year my family memorized Philippians 2:1-18. While we had our fair share of discussions about the passage as we memorized it, I kept thinking, "It would be great if I could explain all the richness of this passage to my kids. I would love to walk them through this, line by line." So, last month I spent time creating 30 family devotionals for parents to read aloud to their kids, explaining Philippians 2 in depth. The book is called The Heart of Humility: Teaching Your Kids to Put Others First. . How This Bible Study is Different Many family devotionals help children get a broad understanding of ...Read More
Foods Easy Refrigerator Blueberry Cheesecake (Sugar-Free and Gluten-Free)
It's blueberry season! So naturally, it's time to create a Blueberry Cheesecake that is sugar-free and gluten-free. Looking for gluten-free recipes and resources? This Everything Gluten Free page is a library of everything gluten free we’ve worked on. I had 5 marvelous pounds of those beautiful berries of deliciousness sitting in my refrigerator waiting for me to use them in something delicious. Who am I kidding? My 4 boys can devour 5 pounds of blueberries in one sitting. My blueberries weren't really waiting. It's more like I was guarding the blueberries (much to the chagrin of my boys) so I could use some of them ...Read More
What’s in Your Water? 5 Gross Things Always On Tap
What's in your water? I hadn't even considered that question until recently. Quite honestly, despite the fact that I am concerned about health and what I am putting in my body, I never stopped to question what was in my water. I mean, c'mon...it's water. Everyone knows water is healthy. But then a local doctor told me the one thing I could do to improve my health, more than anything else, was to stop drinking the water in our area. More than what we eat, he was convinced the water in this area was not healthy and was causing health problems for a multitude of people. Seriously? Alright, time to ...Read More
Harmonia Botanica Natural Skin Care (Review)
Harmonia Botanica is a relatively new skin care brand which utilizes the potency of organically grown plants and essential oils to treat skin of all types! I was given a chance to try out several of their amazing all-natural products and am pleased to share my insights with you. Special thanks to Harmonia Botanica for sponsoring this post. In Harmonia Botanica skin care products at least 95% of the components are of natural origin and most products are 100% natural - without any synthetic additives. Synthetic fragrances, synthetic colors, parabens, silicones, and mineral oils are not used in their skin care ...Read More
Share Your Tips & Tricks for Getting Through Homeschool Days
All too quickly the school year will be upon us. My, how I have enjoyed the summer. Staying up late with the kids to play outside. Lazy mornings where the kids (and mom) sleeps in. As the busyness of the school year approaches, I know you have some tips and tricks to make the days go more smoothly, and I have a few myself! I'm inviting you to share your tips and tricks. We can help each other make this the best year! So, what types of tricks am I looking for? How do you get all of the school work done, especially if you have multiple children? How do you get healthy dinners on the table? What are your tips ...Read More
