Dd started a phonics program at 5 years old. She was not ready before 5. Ds started reading and writing three-letter words at 3 years old. He learned from refrigerator magnets.

hpymomof3, I understand how you feel. My 14-year-old dd has been training in classical ballet about 8 years. Five days a week, three hours a day, and going away to train in the summer. Over a year ago she came down with a virus that left her with chronic fatigue and she had to completely stop dancing. She could barely lift her arms. It was completely devastating for her and for me. Ballet was her life and my heart was broken for her. Long story short: even though her body was weak, her faith and trust in God grew in amazing leaps and bounds. She says she is thankful for having to go through this difficult trial in her life because it changed her for the better and her priorities are in the right place now. I'm so proud of who she is. It's amazing to see how her ballet training has prepared her for other things. She can get up and speak in church with no problem. After all, she has performed in front of a couple thousand. Right now she is helping to choreograph for our church's upcoming drama production. So even if she never went back to ballet, I know it was still worth all the hard work and investment. It will always be part of who she is and what she does. I'm rambling on and on, but I just wanted you to know that I know how you feel and I know how difficult it is right now. A nice break and a good rest might be all your dd needs. And I believe that all your dd's hard work over the years has not been in vain, but will be beneficial to her in all her endeavors. Best Wishes

My ds is in first grade and I've slacked on science this year (his book was back ordered, then out of print, and I've been just dabbling here and there in some Usborne books). I'm looking to start next year (or maybe now) in a more solid and consistent approach to science. I'm looking online at Apologia's Elementary Science (Astronomy, Botany, Zoology). It doesn't state the grades for these courses. Can any of these be used in first or second grade? Is there an order for these books?? Thanks!

This is me taken last summer. The cropped picture in my profile is also me. Both pics are a bit blurry.

We used R&S 8 a few days a week last year. For my next child, I'll probably use it again but only for Grammar and not the writing. This year (9th) dd is using another writing program and is really enjoying it and learning so much that she wishes that she had started it much earlier.

I don't know anyone famous, but I met Adam West (1960's Batman) when I was 15 years old. I was at some kind of fair and Adam West was there. I stood in line with a young neighborhood boy so he could get his autograph. When we got to the table, Adam West stood up and kissed me! Boy was I surprised!

Family of 4 (2 adults, 1 teen, 1 child). We spend about $700-800 per month shopping at Whole Foods. I buy nearly 100% organic.

The photography is stunning. Your dd does a great job.

My kids loved Dazzle's YouTube video. What a great dog! We have an Alaskan Malamute. If I ask her to do something, she'll just sigh, yawn, and look away and pretend she can't hear me...lol. She may or may not come to me; it depends on what kind of treat I'm offering. She'll snub her nose at a lowly cracker, but chicken or a good piece of cheese usually works...lol. I actually love the stubbornness of the breed. My goodness, Dazzle could cut my housework in half with that clean up trick!! :D Does Dazzle have a Dogster page? I created one for my dog. If you'd like to visit : http://www.dogster.com/dogs/691535

Dazzle RULES! What an awesome dog!!!

Star Trek fan here. I think what I enjoy most in the original series, Next Generation and even Star Trek Voyager, is watching how the characters develop and seeing the strong bonds of friendship and loyalty grow between them. Throw in a little exciting science fiction without being too scary, evil or violent...perfect for me.:p I don't know if I would say it's educational though. :)

Salty, then sweet, then salty, then sweet..... :p Love trail mix because I can get salty & sweet all in one snack!

Fears: bridges and heights. Actually I'm afraid of falling from heights, like off a bridge or a tall building. I would never be able to walk on a bridge or go to the top of a skyscraper. I can just barely drive over a bridge.

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Flax oil may be a good option for you. Whole Foods Market carries a good brand (I forgot the name and I just threw out the bottle) and it comes stamped with the date it was pressed so you know it's fresh. I put it in our smoothies each morning, about a tablespoon per person (less for my little one).

Okay, here's my first post in the new forum. :)