JUST BECAUSE IT'S RECOMMENDED...

"I will walk with integrity of heart within my house;
I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless."

Psalm 101:2-3

Over the years, our family has become more and more scrutinizing when it comes to what we read and watch, both in terms of entertainment and also education (a blurred distinction at this point). We do this because the Bible tells us to. Jesus lived a blameless, holy life and He calls us to the same as imitators of Him. His Word calls us to guard our hearts. It is a high calling.

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Proverbs 4:23

As homeschooling parents, seeking to make wise decisions, we tend to look left and right in hopes of inspiration or even at a much more organic level, guidance. After all, we all need teachers. But ultimately the Word of God should be our constant source of inspiration as well as the litmus test for whether or not a recommended resource is worthy of our time and attention. Daily I'm grateful for the best Teacher we could ever have, the One who never makes mistakes and I'm grateful for His Word and Holy Spirit to guide. Eyes and ears open, homeschooling parents must be cautious of what we place before our children's eyes, hearts, minds. For that matter, we must guard our own hearts carefully, lest we miss the opportunity to protect our children.

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,

making the best use of the time, because the days are evil."

Ephesians 5:15-16

When it comes to recommended homeschool resources and in particular book lists and DVDs for the use of education, we need to remember a key component in every decision. We need to ask ourselves, "Does this glorify God?" "Does this line up with Scripture?" And, if it doesn't, if it contradicts biblical truths or exposes our children to that which the Bible says is sin, evil, abominable...then it doesn't matter how highly recommended it may be, the reality is we should NOT read/watch it.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,

that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Romans 12:2

One way in our family that we strive to be sure we are ingesting good content is to periodically browse our collections of books and DVDs, scouring with a fine-toothed comb to ask ourselves the important questions above. Is this resource acceptable in our home? To do this well, we must have on biblical lenses. We must desire to do all things according to Scripture. I will admit there have been times where it was hard for me to let something go that I've enjoyed over the years and often this has mostly to do with nostalgia. But, as the Lord has grown our hearts and as we continue to mature in Him, it's clear He is gradually removing scales, near blinders if we're honest, and prompting us to weigh our every decision before His Word of Truth. This means, our collections of books and DVDs grow smaller in some ways, but richer in what we do keep and purchase to enjoy. It feels right.

"But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth."

2 Timothy 3:2-7

Book lists.

This one comes up a lot. Every "good" homeschooler wants to read every recommended book list under the sun of course, but as I contemplate what we will read in our home, I'm pressed to remember that there are many things in our lives that are broadly "recommended" by someone else's standards (mainly the world, but surprisingly even other homeschooling Christians) which we do not adopt in our family. The same goes for reading lists, curriculum, and other recommended or widely accepted homeschooling resources. Some things just might not be right for us, even if others are loving it!

We're ok with going against the grain as Jesus did, as He calls us to be set apart. We're ok with thinking hard about our choices and not just blindly doing what the rest are doing without really prayerfully considering the content. I believe this is what God would have us do...and challenge others to consider as well.

"But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 

since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"

1 Peter 1:15-16

As we meditate upon the truths of Scripture it becomes clear in regard to book lists that just because it's recommended...doesn't mean we should be reading it. There are MANY books recommended even by Christian homeschoolers that suggest our children read content including witchcraft, sorcery, lying, stealing, cursing, romantic themes well beyond our children's maturity level, atheism, evolutionary themes, rebelliousness, disobedience or disrespect to parents, siblings, authority, friends, and no doubt I could go on....but the point is that if we really look deeply into the content of the recommended lists and even "classics" we will find that many of them have no place in our God-fearing homes...that is IF we fear Him.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;

all those who practice it have a good understanding."

Psalm 111:10

So, where do we go from here?

"I will ponder the way that is blameless."

Psalm 101:2

The Bible says we need to think. We ought to ponder these things and search the Scriptures for Truth.

We shouldn't just go with the flow and unknowingly wander down paths of unrighteousness.

We need to read the Bible, day and night, and dwell upon it intently. This will enable us to make wise choices.

"Blessed is the man

 who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
    nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree
    planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
    and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers."

Psalm 1:1-3

As we set about a new school year (though it's safe to say we've officially become year-rounders over here, always learning), it is our hope to grow more and more in the grace of God which enlightens our hearts and illuminates that which lurks in the darkness, that which the enemy of our souls would rather keep hidden. It is our desire that every single thing we place before our eyes and allow access to our minds would glorify God and encourage us to grow in the fruit of His Spirit. This requires intentionality and sometimes hard things, like throwing away an old favorite or even something WE used to recommend. It's so important to remember that it's a GOOD THING to grow! This shouldn't be embarrassing. This should be encouraging as we see that we are blooming while we draw nearer to the Lord Jesus Christ! It's also important to remember that choosing to hold tight to our convictions according to the Word of God may come with criticism or even persecution. The Bible says it will.

"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

2 Timothy 3:12

So, when that persecution comes, we'll need to stand strong. But, truly, it is a blessed and peaceful place to be, in the shelter of the Almighty! Every Christian should desire that. Every Christian parent should want to please God with even small decisions. Every Christian should look to the Bible, the breath of God as our primary source of ALL things! And, we need to teach our children to do the same on their own accord. We parents don't just scratch off things we've allowed to enter our homes that shouldn't be there without letting our children in on the process. In fact, I've seen that at times our kids have been the ones to urge us, the parents, to remove something from our library or DVD collection because of THEIR conviction! When this happens, we always go with it to validate our children's hearts! Fortunately, this discarding and filtering process gets easier and easier as time goes on and we regrow sensitivity to subject matter that God does not want for us. Desensitization is a slippery slope. We'd like to keep the things that do not please God and reflect His character at a distance...hot potato as we like to say.

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever."
1 John 2:15-17

Oh, that we might run the race well and see progress as we do. May we (and our book/DVD collections) look DIFFERENT from the average, go-with-the-flow home. May we be SET APART for God's glory as homeschooling Christians, and may we remember with boldness that just because it's recommended...doesn't mean it's for us.

"But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

2 Timothy 3:14-17

PLAYROOM/SCHOOLROOM

It's a place where creativity flows...

...and flows and sometimes volcanically explodes!

It's a place where children play and books are stored, read, made.

(another wonderful book by the ever-creative Nova)

There's always something exciting going on in the playroom/schoolroom!

"Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy."

Psalm 33:3

CATCH OF THE DAY - TARANTULA

As much as I would have thought snakes and tarantulas would be where I'd draw the line, the truth is, I'm not nearly as worried about the creepy crawly things around our new home as I thought I would be. For many years as we prayed about our next move, we always considered we may end up in a foreign country where things like heat and wildlife would be part of the deal. Being right here in California still with so many creature comforts, including air conditioning and FedEx, not to mention familiarity, friends, the beach, etc...I have to say our rural move has been more than a blessing, wildlife included.

That said, there is still a learning curve when it comes to the critters around here and what I've noticed is that the more we learn, the less we fear. Knowledge is powerful. Wisdom affects how we view the world around us. So, it's our job to understand our habitat and those we share it with in order to respect God's creatures and also protect ourselves and our children.

Our most recent catch of the day was a bit easier to not fear because our new neighbors were over at our house when we found it and they have lots of experience with TARANTULAS! They even let them walk up their arms when they find them (which apparently isn't too often). But, eeek. I'm still not a fan of these hairy, crawly creatures and knowing they don't come around often is just fine by me. However, we did get to inspect this one and even take a couple pics before releasing him....over there!

Later that evening, the kids came in with a book we have about spiders and it turns out these guys aren't nearly as intimidating as their appearance and reputation...especially compared to much smaller spiders we had right in our house back in town. We have so much more to learn and thankfully science is all around us in our new environment, covered with the fingerprints of God.

WIKIPEDIA TARANTULA

"In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures."

Psalm 104:24

CRAFTING WITH MRS. REYES

When Mrs. Reyes comes over to play, guaranteed it's going to be FUN!

...and MESSY!

(leaf craft)

One word...FLUBBER.

Mrs. Reyes, one of my most cherished and dear sister-friends, is truly unique and special. She was Aida's 1st and 2nd grade teacher back in our early co-op homeschooling days. Always the teacher, Mrs. Reyes loves to come craft with the kids!

(making sand candles at the beach house)

She loves exploring nature!

She loves children!

And mostly she loves the Lord!

(We laughed and laughed as it got dark before our sand candles hardened and some even were

swooped away by the rising tide. What an adventure to go searching in the DARK for lost candles with Mrs. Reyes!)

Mrs. Reyes, our whole family loves you so very much!

Thanks for the many fun (and gluey) memories! We hope there are many more!!

"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them,
for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'"
Matthew 19:14

PAINTING CLASS

We tend to go with the flow for homeschooling (and creativity is always flowing around here), but every now and then enrichment opportunities come along and this week the older girls got to attend a painting class with our wonderful neighbors.

As the class began, Elka whispered to me that this was her first official "class" ...ever. And, it dawned on me how very much we've changed over the years in our homeschooling approach. In the early days with our 2 oldest we chose the co-op road and I'm so glad we did, because otherwise I don't know that we would have experimented with homeschooling at all! But to think of such weekly classes being part of our rhythm (read: off beat drum) at this point in our homeschooling journey feels completely foreign.

Off beat works best for us.

Yet, it was a treat for the girls to join into a sweet community event this week here in our new place in this world.

Their paintings remind us of the experience and Elka is asking me to get out my oil paints for her now. She will love oils!

And I love these girls.

"He has filled them with skill to do every sort of work."
Exodus 35:35

CATCH OF THE DAY - KINGSNAKE

I'll admit, I wasn't thrilled about this catch of the day at first...but after doing our homework,

I see that this kingsnake who has made his home in our yard is actually our friend, even protector.

He stays.

It was a rough lesson this past week to see a large snake prey upon our beloved bird's nest up in our tree. We grieved as a family while he enjoyed a meal. It was like National Geographic right in our own backyard! It's taken me some time to digest the whole thing because really, it was traumatic, especially for sweet Nova. All of the children were distraught! I was nauseous. Brodie, of course, remained calm and even found a lesson for us all through the distressing situation. We all felt for the mama and daddy birds as they tried their best to peck at the snake that took from them. And we, mama and daddy to our little ones had to explain the circle of life and even find and teach respect for this creature (and his Creator) in our garden.

We prayed and thanked the Lord for the compassion we saw in our children for the vulnerable little birds. We asked Him to use that compassion to fuel their love for His people, also in need. We thanked God for how He cares for even the birds and asked that He would comfort them and help them build a new nest and have more baby birds soon. He cares and so do we.

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows."

Matthew 10:29-31

After that episode, we nudged the snake over to the field by our house, only to find him back again yesterday. So, we did some research. (Insert science lesson here.) What to do with this determined snake who obviously likes our garden???

As it turns out, this kingsnake is, in fact, our friend. He will eat rattlesnakes and other snakes. He will also eat rodents and he is not venomous himself. The kingsnake is on our team. So, we will respect him and we will not touch him. We will not kill him or even try to remove him because we see that he will help protect our property ultimately. So, this catch of the day stays....and another country lesson tucks under our belts. We need not be afraid and we're growing day by day.

WIKIPEDIA CALIFORNIA KINGSNAKE

"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.

And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens

and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.'"

Genesis 1:26

"SCHOOL" TABLE

I can't take ANY credit for this grand idea. However, I like it! Yesterday, I walked outdoors to find the children like this:

Apparently this is the perfect "school" table, I've been informed. Well, OK!

Since we moved, we haven't totally found our stride for how or where our schoolwork will take place. I'm totally fine with that as our relaxed approach welcomes variety and freedom, not to mention a million life and heart lessons along the way as we have transitioned into our new world. However, it is also nice to have a spot (or a few) where the children can gather for more official group lessons and seatwork. I especially enjoy having them all together sometimes with older ones helping little ones, though for obvious reasons there is also a lot of individual learning going on (up in trees, on the floor, perched on a rock...wherever).

That said, when I came out to find that all of the kids had packed their backpacks up with things to learn and do all on their own accord yesterday, my heart was happy to see them not only settling into our new home, but desiring to learn all on their own.

Isn't that just the natural flow of childhood? Curious, naturally inclined to learn little people...

Yes, that's who and what they are and all the better when it's happening in nature! I love it!

"An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge."

Proverbs 18:15

TIMES TABLE FLOWERS

When it comes to math, one of the most important concepts to grasp for practical life application is multiplication.
I still remember learning them the standard way in 3rd grade. I remember the manila folder, the tests, drills, quizzes.
Having multiple learners with a creative bent, I was really excited when I stumbled upon these Times Table Flowers online.

 

They're a perfect way for us to practice our multiplication while adding a bit of art in the mix.

Thanks to the laminator, they are hardy and usable for drills.

We are careful to keep the corners slightly rounded since they can be sharp.

I love how these flowers leave plenty of room for interpretation and individuality.

The metal ring seems to be the best option for easy keeping.

 

I'm thinking these will become a new staple over the years.

"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."
Psalm 90:12

BRODIE'S BOOKS

There once was a little boy who didn't like to spell. Anything that involved non-graph paper and pencil made him squirm...

except for drawing that is. He much preferred art supplies, outdoor activities, or reading. But writing was just not his "thing"...yet.

 

 

It turns out this boy was an artist, the type that expresses differently than average folk, and his artistry was anything but...average. In fact, the little boy had a gift, a gift of creativity bestowed upon him from heaven.

Surely, God's intentions were to use the boy's art to tell His type of stories.

 

And so it goes, the boy was given another gift from home...the gift of TIME, he was given. Time produces wonderful, surprising things like maturity, development, and seasoning. The boy was also given books, good books of the most inspiring kind. He'd read his Bible and his novels. He'd also play his piano hours on end, creating, composing. For, he was allowed to BE.

 

 

The boy loved to create and one day he discovered something new. He had, over time, realized he'd learned to spell.

So he spelled and spelled and spelled some more until he had written a chapter. One chapter gushed into two and before he knew what he'd done, the boy had written a book. It wasn't just any book. It was a book that glorified the Lord, a masterfully written allegory in similar fashion to the ones he'd been reading, the one's he'd been inspired by. It was beautiful.

 

 

One book turned into two. And just like that, we see that this boy who didn't like to spell now suddenly did. TIME had been a friend and the Creator the boy had grown to know was Director of the storyline...the one that He writes so well when we offer ourselves to Him. So the boy wrote and played and wrote some more and who knows how the rest of the story goes. But, right here in the middle it resembles natural overflow of the most creative kind and it's a blessing that warms the boy's mother's heart.

 

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights

with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
James 1:17

THE HURRIED LADYBUG - A LESSON IN PATIENCE...AND WRITING

It's that time of year again when the house smells like cinnamon and little hands make cookies.

 

 

 

All in favor?

 

 

(the masterminds behind the scenes)

 

It's a time to make and bake and we've been doing plenty of both,
embracing the season in spite of being packed up in boxes, ready to move...or not?

 

One of my favorite little blessings this week came in the form of a language arts lesson turned gift as Olia began writing a story.

 

This is how we homeschool...

 

Yesterday morning I stumbled upon the start of a story about a ladybug. Without my knowing, it was half written by Olia the day before and there it was on the table all on her own accord. She just wanted to write it...so she did! It hadn't been an assignment. It wasn't my agenda. But, when I saw what could easily go unfinished or slip through the cracks, I knew it was worth capitalizing upon. So, before Olia woke and before the sun had come up, I corrected her spelling and added a few who/which words here and there. I constructed paragraph format and a few tidbits about story writing that I thought would interest her and make her story all the better. I was excited to teach her when she woke up!

 

As we began to engage about her story after breakfast, full writing mode emerged along with
the idea that Olia's adorable story would be a perfect Christmas gift for Bea who loves ladybugs!

(our favorite little ladybug)

We have a ladybug printable the kids enjoy coloring, so I made some copies and also looked up ladybugs on the children's National Geographic website (insert science lesson here). The little ones colored, Olia too, and we discussed the letter L among other things. As we finished up the ladybug story, Olia and I came up with a creative way to package Bea's special book.

 

 

We traced, cut, and went digging for the laminator in the abyss of boxes in the garage
that have been packed since mid-November. After 20 insistent minutes, we found it! Hooray!
And the stack of other "laminate please" items all filed in line on the counter...right next to Olia's story.

 

 

We discussed through the writing how it's nice to include a moral to a story, a life lesson worth learning and patience became the focus. By the end of her writing, Olia had renamed her story and even went looking for a Bible verse to finish it off. This led to Daddy stepping in to have a talk with her about the concordance in the back of her pink Bible. She looked up the word "patience", found the verse she wanted, and copied it on the last page.

 

 

She dedicated the book to Bea on the back,

 

 

and wrapped it in a box.

 

 

This is officially the first wrapped gift of the season and of course that is very exciting! I know that Bea will love her gift.
It was a multifaceted experience for us to write it, flowing organically from something Olia was naturally inclined to do.
T's were crossed and i's were dotted...but it happened in our own uniquely motivated way.

 

This is how we homeschool. It works wonderfully for us and is such a privilege! The freedom and creativity that exudes from the children and the accountability we feel toward God incline our hearts to honor Him with our lessons and life, both going hand in hand. I could go on about the many character lessons we learned throughout this day as well, those being some of my favorites.
But for now, I'll tuck those in my heart and document here the story of Olia writing The Hurried Ladybug for her sister.

 

 

"May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might,
for all endurance and patience with joy."
Colossians 1:11