This sweet country song touches my heart every time I hear it.
Category: Home School Ruminations
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Hip, Hip, Hurray-The Romeikes Can Stay!!!
I received this good news from HSLDA. Thank You Lord for answering our prayers!
The Department of Homeland Security verbally informed Home School Legal Defense Association that the Romeike family is being granted indefinite deferred action status. The Department told HSLDA that this meant the order of removal would not be acted on and that the Romeikes could stay.
HSLDA Chairman Michael Farris was thrilled.
“This is an incredible victory that I can only credit to Almighty God. I also want to thank those who spoke up on this issue—including that long ago White House petition. We believe that the public outcry made a huge impact. What an amazing turnaround—in just 24 hours,” he said.
Yesterday, the Supreme Court issued a denial of the Romeike family’s petition for certiorari, sparking an immediate and unprecedented reaction. Fox News told HSLDA that they recorded 1 million page views of the Romeikes’ story in 24 hours—an all-time high. Although many were not surprised by the Supreme Court’s decision, it seemed that this was the last hope for the family to avoid being sent back to Germany where they would undoubtedly be persecuted for homeschooling their children.
Homeschool Family Gets Real
Sometimes I wish I could be a fly on the wall and observe other homeschool families going about their daily activities. How do they handle disputes, algebra lessons, meal times…how do they keep stuff in order! Maybe they do not have these perfect situations after all. The Wilson Family discusses being transparent or as they say “real.” Although they are often allowing themselves to be more vulnerable, their honesty helps us all to feel better especially when we struggle in some areas. I hope you enjoy this clip.
The Giant Killer
If you are looking for a worthwhile, uplifting, and character building book for your next read-aloud session with your children, consider reading The Giant Killer from Lamplighter publishing. This story is a quick read that almost feels like a devotional because there so many opportunities to discuss matters of faith and obedience with your children…and examine your heart as well.
- This story centers around a Victorian Christian family who have outwardly obedient yet prideful children . The Roby family is asked to care and tutor the rowdy and headstrong twin brothers: Adolphus and Constantine who are their cousins. Hoping to instill good behavior and humble hearts in all of the children, Mrs. Roby faithfully shares with them the tales and adventures of The Giant Killer. Through this allegorical tale about a knight facing the “giants,” the children learn of the giants they must destroy through their own Christian warfare, which may include: sloth, hate, pride, selfishness, and untruth. They learn about overcoming these “giants” with the help of “Conscience,” “Experience” and “The Chord of Love.” Absolutely the best thing about this book may be that it offers one more tool to use when we face our own giants by remembering the lessons learned by the faithful knight as well as the Roby children. Indeed as Christians, we are all in a battle with our very own flesh…our old man. This war will not end until we meet our Savior face to face. ~Anne
Considering Homeschooling?
1. Read as much as you can about homeschooling before you begin. Subscribe to a homeschool magazine.
2. As you read, keep a notebook of the ideas you like. Try to form your own homeschool philosophy.
3. Avoid imitating the public school system.
4 Relax and enjoy. Work on making happy memories together.
5. Keep it simple at first. Add more subjects as the year progresses.
6. Talk to a few “seasoned” homeschool families about what curriculum they use before ordering. Resist the urge to over-buy. So much learning takes place just through reading good books together.
7. When your children are little simply focus on reading & writing. Your children can learn science and history through read-alouds.
8. When teaching reading don’t be afraid to combine curriculum ideas. Read picture books together every day.
9. Find out when you legally have to begin formal schooling according to your state. Rather than formal schooling create a lifestyle of learning.
10. Don’t compare your program with any other.
11. Try journaling instead of a typical lesson plan book.
12. Most importantly, remember that on some days learning will be all about character development. It is very difficult to homeschool a child who will not obey or listen.
13. Find a homeschool mentor who you can talk to on a regular basis.
14. Find one or two like-minded families to meet with on a regular basis.
15. Pray and read the Scriptures. Look up all the Bible verses regarding teaching and training your children.
16. Don’t forget to join HSLDA. For a fee ($100) per year, you will have peace of mind knowing that you have access to legal advice.
17. Have Fun everyday! 🙂
~Anne
Twice Freed
My boys and I recently finished reading a historical fiction novel by my favorite author Patricia St. John. Although historical fiction has many benefits, reading Biblical fiction allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the historical figures in scripture and this often leads to a richer experience while reading the Bible. After reading Twice Freed we thought differently about Paul, Philemon and Onesimus because they became more real to us. Because Patricia St. John includes historically accurate descriptions of the many regions spoken of in St. Paul’s Epistles, we felt compelled to read a few chapters written by Paul as well. Twice Freed helped us to gain an appreciation for the difficulties and struggles of Paul, Philemon, and the early Christian church. Getting to know the Roman slave boy Onesimus, and following his search for freedom and love was moving and inspirational and as we learned more about his character we could not help caring about him….and hoping he would find what he was looking for. Understanding the pagan lifestyles of this period was also important for us because we really had no idea that the early believers had to struggle against such strongholds and deeply held beliefs and customs. We are grateful to Patricia St. John for another wonderful book and because of her we will never read a Pauline epistle the same way again!
Homeschooling Highschool~From my Heart
Although homeschooling highschoolers causes me to doubt myself more than I used to in the past, I would not trade this season with my teens for anything in the world. Watching boys grow into young men and being able to spend quality time with them during these years is so precious. In spite of the fact that it is rewarding, worthwhile, and even hilarious at times, homeschooling highschool is challenging. The difficulty comes with the realization that the time is running short and there are still 100 books to read, 1000 conversations to have, and many family activities that have been put on the back burner for another day. There are subjects we have not covered and world view lessons that are still on the schedule. I remind my husband of field trips that did not occur and life skill coaching that has not happened yet. I plead with him, “Honey, will you please teach the boys how to change a tire.” I could go on and on. My thoughts wander….we never really tackled the Old Testament and did not memorize enough….never took a CPR course…did not volunteer enough…need more geography and map work. It’s shocking to a homeschool mom’s psyche when high hopes and dreams are looking dimmer each year into highschool. I want to stop the clock and put a freeze on these years and because I know what’s coming up next…a wave of melancholy flows over me when I realize that I’m nearly done with this homescholing adventure. My heart aches. I’m trusting in God to fill in the gaps for me…I’m praying He will multiply my efforts and continue to work in the lives of these young men. I count my blessings…I’m grateful for these days and years. Watching old movies together and reading great books as a family…sharing oodles of meals and realizing my boys are great little chefs. Fellowship with like-minded families and watching teens interact…now that is often very entertaining! Staying up late with dad and playing grown-up sports like tennis…another blessing. Watching them perform in concerts or playing the piano at home fills my heart with joy. In spite of my fears and insecurities, my cup runneth over! His grace is sufficient for our family! I am blessed to have this opportunity to enjoy these very rich years of homeschooling highschool….I would not have it any other way or change a single thing.
~Anne
Evolution vs. God
I just recently had the opportunity to view this excellent video “Evolution vs. God” and found Mr. Comfort’s line of questioning one that revealed so much about the heart of the atheist and evolutionist. What a thought-provoking presentation that is so worth the 30 minutes. Rev. Bresciani wrote this excellent review of the presentation.
“Modern secular education and propaganda and indoctrination are birds of a feather” Anon
The Evolution V. God video is only a bit over thirty minutes in length, but it is one of the most power packed blows to the evolutionary model produced in this decade.
Having seen the video several times wasn’t enough for this writer, I began combing the tweets, and blogs to see the people’s reaction. While many believers were delighted with it, the indoctrinated and dyed in the wool evolutionists, in large part, resorted to degrading and nasty remarks often aimed at Ray Comfort.
Arguments against Comfort’s conclusions were almost non-existent because Comfort questioned only those who are Darwinists. They did not fare well, although they remained dignified they were unable to give a defense of something they had swallowed hook, line and sinker, with no serious thought to the other side of the argument.
One blogger thought he had clinched the argument by declaring that the next time Ray Comfort gets sick he should take a ‘creationist penicillin pill.’ That science has produced some amazing benefits for mankind was never Comfort’s argument.
Does God Exist?
This short piece from Prager University features the late Frank Pastore (1957-2012) who played baseball for the Cincinnati Reds. He was also an author, theologian and radio talk show host. Listening to him on the radio and was a pleasure and his passion and plain talk was impressive and refreshing. Although he was an atheist for 27 years, he eventually came to Christ. I was shocked and saddened upon hearing the news that he was in a motor cycle accident and passed away. I rejoice in the knowledge that he took the time to examine his own heart, the universe around him and God’s holy word. Today he is rejoicing and in the arms of his Savior because he said “YES” to the Lord Jesus Christ.
President’s Day
I thought this was interesting. 🙂
Doubting Capitalism?
It seems that folks everywhere….in our colleges, our schools, our media and even our government are subtly or overtly criticizing our capitalistic system. They may not use the word capitalism but use code phrases which communicate the message that it has failed. Our leaders stress income inequality and social justice which are really just ways to express the idea that our current system which has actually rescued more people out of poverty than any other, is inadequate. Even our beloved Pilgrims found out that socialism did not work when they first experimented with this nearly four centuries ago. Their communal sharing revealed that some folks who are not willing to work will feed off of those who have a good work ethic. It revealed that allowing people to have their own land was good for everyone and encouraged hard work. God’s command to us in the Old Testament not to steal or covet our neighbor’s property reflects this view that property ownership is a blessing from Him. Listen to this clip of Milton Friedman from an old talk show. Better yet, have your older children listen along with you!
Choir of Hexham Abbey
This congregation from across the sea blessed me so much today as I listened to the words of this lovely hymn. A whole group of happy folks singing enthusiastically together…there’s nothing better than this! Enjoy!
My Lord and I
I have a friend so precious,
So very dear to me,
He loves me with a tender love,
He loves me faithfully;
I could not live apart from Him,
I love to feel Him nigh;
And so we dwell together,
My Lord and I.
Sometimes I’m faint and weary,
He knows that I am weak;
And as He bids me lean on Him,
His help I’ll gladly seek;
He leads me in the path of light, 
Beneath a sunny sky;
And so we dwell together,
My Lord and I.
He knows how much I love Him,
He knows I love Him well;
But with what love He loveth me,
My tongue can never tell;
It is an everlasting love
In ever rich supply;
And so we dwell together,
My Lord and I.
I tell Him all my sorrows,
I tell Him all my joys,
I tell Him all that pleases me, 
I tell Him what annoys;
He tells me what I ought to do,
Hs tells me what to try;
And so we dwell together,
My Lord and I.
He knows how I am longing
Some weary soul to win,
And so He bids me go and speak
A loving word for Him;
He bids me tell His wondrous love,
And why He came to die;
And so we dwell together,
My Lord and I.
Congratulations!
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL BORN IN 1930’s, 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and Early 80’s !!! First, you survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they carried us. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a tin, and didn’t get tested for diabetes. Then after that trauma, your baby cots were covered with bright colored lead-based paints. You had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when you rode your bikes, you had no helmets, not… to mention, the risks you took hitchhiking .. As children, you would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Riding in the back of a van – loose – was always great fun. You drank water from the garden hosepipe and NOT from a bottle. You shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. You ate cakes, white bread and real butter and drank pop with sugar in it, but you weren’t overweight because…… YOU WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!! You would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach you all day. And you were OK. You would spend hours building your go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out you forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, you learned to solve the problem . You did not have Playstations, Nintendo’s, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, no video tape movies, no surround sound, no mobile phones, no text messaging, no personal computers, no Internet or Internet chat rooms……….YOU HAD FRIENDS and you went outside and found them! You fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents you played with worms(well most boys did) and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. You made up games with sticks and tennis balls and although you were told it would happen, you did not poke out any eyes. You rode bikes or walked to a friend’s house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just yelled for them! Local teams had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn’t had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing you out if you broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law! This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. You had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and you learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL! And YOU are one of them! CONGRATULATIONS! You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated our lives for our own good. And while you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave their parents were.
O Holy Night
12 Days of Christmas
Enjoying the Piano Guys
My boys really enjoy listening to the Piano guys and are inspired to play the piano more themselves. Enjoy!
