I started using AVKO Sequential Spelling for my oldest last year. She has made HUGE strides. This is completely different from most spelling curriculum in the sense that it incorporates several senses to make it a total learning experience. It is based on word families. Here is a link to their website if you want to check it out. http://www.avko.org/sequentialspelling.html Good luck.

Thanks for the input ladies. I may unsubscribe later but free is free!

I would go. I agree that it models a good marriage for your children. Now that's an incredible legacy. (I might still feel guilty though.) :blushing: I mean after all I love my kids!

Nice blog post. I agree - Kids can do more than we allow ourselves to think is possible sometimes.

I have a book "Haley's Cleaning Hints" that has saved my carpets several times. Now first a disclaimer....our pet accident involved our dog. I know it's different from a cat but the recipe is titled: Pet Accident Recipe 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide to 1 tbsp of baking soda. Add 1tsp of dish soap and stir well. Apply the solution to the area with a sponge. Let it dry and vacuum. Because of it's volatility it loses it's effectiveness within a short time. I was nervous about using this on my dark green carpet because of the peroxide. I thought it might bleach it out. So I would suggest testing it someplace inconspicuous. It worked find on 2 different types of carpet in my house without bleaching it out. I finally went ahead and used it because after repeated cleaning and shampooing it still smelled horrible and my mind set was "the carpet is ruined anyway". Good luck.

I was put on it for fibromyalgia pain too. I ended up in the ER thinking I was having a stroke and as I was titrating off I had what I call an episode ?possible seizure?. Scary stuff to me. My body doesn't like foreign substances apparently. I went the natural route and started using AIM products. BarleyLife and Fiberblend. It took a while but I am off all prescription pain meds now. If you want info on those products let me know and I'll get it for you. Good luck.

So has anyone heard of this??

I was just thinking about this the other day. Thanks from me too!

:iagree: definitely the most healthy option. But butter sounds way yummier!

I'm so sorry to hear this Brenda. :grouphug: You serve an awesome God though. I'll be praying.

My dd self taught herself by watching Youtube videos. She has the basics down. I'll have to show her some of the resources in this thread though. She'll be in heaven!:hurray:

:iagree: Another thought would be to start learning cursive. Totally different so there is no muscle memory. My DD's learned cursive first and did very well. The curves seemed easier than the ball and stick type manuscript.

I too have the less is more attitude. My husband and I have been trying to simplify for about 2 years. It makes things like cleaning the house easier too. I will be thrilled when my kids jump on that band wagon someday too:D.

My sympathies to you. Migraines suck. I'm right there with you in the denial phase though right up until it hits. Why?

:lol::lol::lol::lol::iagree:

Very touching and beautiful. Love it.

In our locale, presently, houses must be pristine like a model home, to command full market value. It must either be staged or completely empty. Before having children I sold real estate. I have seen many homes and can tell you that all spots, stains and imperfections stick out like a sore thumb on carpets, walls etc. in an empty house. The price range can also influence this decision. The certain price ranges are very desirable (your realtor can tell you this range for your area) and these houses can get away with a bit more imperfections. Good luck.

7 year olds can come up with some pretty cute sayings!

Disturbing....

My kids have ICB. It was recommended by our Children's Minister. My children both wanted a "real" Bible with all of the words. They both seem to understand it pretty well too. Here's a link to one like it: http://www.christianbook.com/icb-glitter-wings-compact-bible-girls/9781400311194/pd/311194?item_code=WW&netp_id=504201&event=HPT&view=details You will notice I obviously have girls after looking at this but there are other covers too:001_smile:.

How about their very own venus fly trap or butterfly kit? Both are readily available on shopping sites such as Amazon.

I agree with the exercise. Mine DD ran laps around the house or when it was colder did jumping jacks or some other weird body bending routine I could think of at the moment. I'm also laughing because of the gum suggestion from SailorMom. It really does help us too. When that doesn't work I sequester her away (she is very social and this true torture for her - thus giving her incentive to finish the given task) until she finishes "x". Hang in there. I know it is frustrating. You are right about remaining calm though.

I thought you hijacked my house for a minute.:lol: Maybe I'm a bit fanatical but I make them do most of their work in the school room and they MUST clean up after themselves each day before dinner. These are great suggestions too. Good luck!

We use our kitchen table. However, I use an adjustable "student" chair I found on sale for $20. It has worked wonderfully.

Hi all, Here's a neat way to start your school year.....with encouragement. A friend forwarded this to me and it looks like there's some pretty interesting interviews. Has anyone heard of this before? http://tinyurl.com/Superheroeslink