I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one that notices these things. I thought I was just strange like that. :laugh: I was having my blood drawn once and the phlebotomist was having some difficulty finding a good vein. She had not actually stuck me yet, and she laid the needle down (with the cap off) on the counter ledge of the sink while she continued to find a vein. I don't think the needle actually touched the counter, but the very thought of the bacteria in that sink area grossed me out. Needless to say, she wasn't sticking me with that needle, and I asked for a new one. If you're uncomfortable with the practices of a healthcare worker, ask them to wash, change gloves, etc. If they're offended, I'd go elsewhere.

As others have said, R&S is very solid. We changed to Shurley last year because DD hated the diagramming. If your kids doesn't mind diagramming, it is a great program.

I think I have decided on curriculum for every subject except English/writing. DD will be in 7th grade and does very well with grammar and writing. I feel like she may be advanced in this area, but I really don't know for sure. The problem is she is bored with the same ol' English drill. She has a good grasp on grammar, including punctuation and parts of speech. I'm considering slacking off of the grammar some and concentrating more on writing - perhaps some creative writing. Do you think this would be a good idea? Also, I know many of you have a lot of experience with different programs. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Do you have an arts center where you live? I don't know if they would offer contests, but they may be able to point you in the right direction.

I can see why it may be easier for you to use manuscript. My step-dad was an civil engineer, and he almost never wrote in cursive. This was due to his engineering background as so much manuscript was required. I think it just became second nature to him to print although he could write in cursive. He had some of the most beautiful and perfectly formed letters that I have ever seen. I, on the other hand, would be lost without cursive. I write everything...well, almost everything in cursive. I will only print when absolutely necessary, and even then, it ends up a mixture of manuscript and cursive. :lol:

I like both the black and yellow Ticonderoga, but the black is my favorite. They hold up better than any other brand we've tried. I've never seen the silver ones, but now I'm curious and going to have to try them out.

We switched to Saxon last year for 6th grade. I have been happy with Saxon, but there is a lot of review. Although my daughter is not thrilled with all the review, I have noticed that she is retaining the concepts much better than before - which, to me, is a huge plus. I also like that the book has good explanations with each section. I usually go over it with her, but sometimes she just likes to read the examples herself and complete the work. All in all, it has worked out well for us.

Thank you! It is so nice to meet another single homeschooling mom.

Thank you for the microscope suggestions and the links to the threads. It looks like I have some more research to do! JanetC, thanks for the great ideas. We do have a telescope, and we did some chemistry last year. I honestly think she could go in any direction as far as her interest in the sciences. She has shown some interest in chemistry, marine biology, space, forensic and life science. We live near the ocean, so there is some real opportunity for exposure to marine biology. She has even talked to some interns studying marine biology at a local place that cares for dolphins, sea lions, etc. However, this past year she has really become more interested in forensic science, so I decided to go with life science since we did some chemistry last year. I am very comfortable in the life sciences as I am a Medical Laboratory Scientist and also have a degree in microbiology. Realizing that this may not be her passion, I definitely want her exposed to all areas of science and to find her niche so that she develops a love for whatever area she chooses. And, who knows, she may steer away from science and do something completely different. :001_unsure: I really just wanted some of those features on a microscope to make life a little easier while using it. I love your idea about the dissecting microscope! I think that would be great addition as well.

Thank you so much! I had looked at Amscope but was concerned about quality as their prices were so reasonable compared to other places. I'm glad to know that you have been pleased with yours.

I am looking to purchase a microscope that will last through high school. My daughter is 12 now and enjoys science. I plan on us using it a lot, so I know I want a binocular scope, mechanical stage, iris diaphragm, and possibly even an oil immersion lens. I've looked at quite a few, but I can't make up my mind. I would like a good quality and solid microscope that my daughter will enjoy using and will last for a while, but I don't want to spend a fortune. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I just wanted to introduce myself. I am a single mom, and this will be the third year homeschooling my 12 year old daughter. While it a little harder to homeschool as a single parent, it is well worth the effort. I look forward to getting to know you all.