Raising a reader

Teaching my first born how to read at four started out to be exciting. And for the most part it was. He wanted to learn to read, and on most days it was easy going. There were those times however, when I actually had to remind myself why I was homeschooling, and wasn't I crazy to teach a four year old how to read? But with each passing lesson, and day, and month, it got a little easier, and more fun. I must admit, I am still a little prideful to say "I taught my boy how to read!" How exciting that I got to be the one to see his eyes light up when he could read those signs at the restaurant, or see a picture on a book at the library and be able to read the title! At first, I started checking out those beginning readers. After a couple of weeks he got bored with the level 4s, so we had to find something more exciting. He already has a couple favorite series books.. Hardy Boys, Cam Jansen (thanks to cousins for introducing us to Cam!) and Beverly Lewis' Cul de Sac Kids. Well yesterday was probably the highlight of his reading career for me. He and Daddy came back from a day of big boy errands, one being the library. He had discovered "Choose your own adventure" books. (btw, Daddy & Mommy loved them when we were young!) Keep in mind that here in KY there is an inch of snow and ice on the ground and it was probably 18 degrees. But there stood my little 7 yr old reader on the porch. Mommy, standing at the door beckoning him to come in and get warm, and him, oblivious. There he was wrapped up in his coat and toboggan, and fingerless camo gloves, reading. What a pure mommy moment for me!!

New Life Voices at the coffee shop...

Will perform again there on February 6th!

Since Daddy went camping, Boys wanted to also!

Meeting their cousin for the first time...

Listening to Auntie Carrie

I am still trying to figure out how to post a video. Actually, I am still trying to get it onto my computer! My singing group performed at a coffee house over the weekend. Although, they double booked, so we "took turns" with another group. The other band was a rock group, so it was really interesting! Their lead singer had a blast filling in for my friend Michelle with his tambourine.

On a homeschooling note, I am really trying to learn how to pare down my plans. Over the years of teaching preschool, I have become really quite good at writing lesson plans. I have such high hopes and expectations for my little guys, that I rarely fit it all in! Don't know how other homeschoolers do it, but I am shooting for math and reading every day. Then I add in the other subjects one or two days each. We are so desperate to get outside. Although, my almost four year old's exercise trampoline sure does come in handy (for all of us)!

We started back with our Five in a Row literature unit studies. We are currently reading Katy and the Big Snow. Also, we are starting to work on a Fruits of the Spirit lapbook, which I am really excited about! As usual, I hope to post photos!

Informal Christmas photo
New Life Voices
(Tracy, Josh, Karen, Carrie, Michelle)

My beautiful niece was born this morning at 8:39. What a privilege to hold her when she was just three hours old!

diaper wreath I made for my new niece's hospital room

first family photo





my precious new niece!


proud Daddy & Sweet Baby Girl

Ahhhh.... Mama love!

Gingerbread Baby Shower

Happy New Year

Eventually I'll get the hang of this whole blogging thing and think of something wildly creative and poignant to say. Like, for example, my dear sweet sister. Check out her blog... dancingwithmyFather.blogspot.com

My Prayers for the New Year

Simplify
Declutter
Have a Closer Walk with Thee
Sing sing sing
Strive to be the best Mama/Teacher He would have me to be

ObiWan & Mommy, The Firefighters, My Boys