Back to School Blast!

Thursday, August 26th at 1:00 EST

Where? Online Webinar. Click Here for more information!

Come be Energized!

I always start the new year with a bang! I'm excited, the kids are excited. We buy new school supplies, and they get some new books. (Come on, do your really think after homeschooling since, gulp...1986 I need to buy many books?!!)

But then things settle down, the newness wears off and we begin to lose things...

"Mom, where is my math book?"

"Has anyone seen my pencil"

"Do I really have to read the whole page?!"

The answer to the questions are as follows:

1. That math book better be found quickly, or you will have dishes for a week.

2. Are there really no other pencils in the entire house you want to use?

3. Would you rather read the entire chapter? How wonderful!

Some days I can be more loving, I assure you, but most days the questions appeal to the "smart-alek-response" part of my brain, if there is such a thing. No matter what our trials I am still here and homeschooling strong. I have graduated two children K-12 and I am currently schooling

Nick: 15 and in 10th grade

Anne: 12 and in 7th grade

Mike: 10 and in 7th grade

My children each learn according to their own styles and any given day can find us up to our arms in a happy mish-mash of techinques, books and activities. Some years we co-op, some years we don't .... some years we are heavy in science and others we are heavy in history. Some years I wonder where the year went and if we really covered as much as the pages in their portofolios of work samples show!

No matter what your circumstance if you are homeschooling one or a mulitple group of children, I ask that you join us this Thursday, August 26th at 1:00 EST and listen to my interview with Cindy Rushton as she shares her heart and how she managed to homeschool through her life trama, travel and the hope that she inspires in many!

I am still homeschooling my children, Cindy has completed her journey and we invite you to join us as you proceed in yours!

For more information:

http://www.ultimatehomeschoolexpo.com/backtoschoolblast.html

Exciting news! Back to School Blast with my friend Cindy Rushton. Join us for a day of inspiration and excitement. Details coming soon, in the mean time save the date!

August 26, 2010.

Exciting news! Back to School Blast with my friend Cindy Rushton. Join us for a day of inspiration and excitement. Details coming soon, in the mean time save the date!

August 26, 2010.

I have neglected my blog.

I have neglected my email group.

I have neglected the laundry. . . the cleaning . . . the cooking . . .

Yet, I have eaten, worn clean clothes and lived in a fairly clean home. My family is to be commended for coming along side me as I ventured into the world of working at home in full force. There are some big changes around the corner for Media Angels, Inc. This little company I began in a room in my home grew and grew until we needed warehouse space to store our books.

Our company has weathered many storms and since this business was never my own but a ministry and something I felt passionately about it didn't begin as work. In fact, I termed the book business the "hobby" that ate my house. I enjoyed working from home, writing when the mood and time was available and waiting until the little ones napped or went to bed before I ventured into the world of research and compiling or fiction.

I've slowly moved into a new season several years ago, I'm not even sure when. Perhaps it was the day we purchased warehouse space, maybe it was the time my co-author Jill traveled from city to city to teach hands-on science classes. Or it was the time we both laughed when a customer looked at our nametags and at our books and realized she was talking to the authors. While common place in homeschool circles, for the most part the vendor booths today are manned by sales people while the owners are at home.

I'm again moving and changing. Soon our website will refelct more of a publishing flavor. You will easily be able to find and navigate the many parts of this website in a more organized fashion. I've updated the shopping cart and may do this yet again.

Part of the change comes as I'm asked to content edit more books for various authors and publicists who want their work read by a "seasoned" (I use that word carefully!) professional. Another change is with author-consultations. I receive calls that target the particular need of a client wanting to break into the ever growing field of published authors. And, I host a weekly radio show for authors in every stage of their writing and publishing careers. This show is informative and fun for me to produce.

So, as I turn the corner more fully into the writing and publishing aspect of this business I am here to ask for help. If there is anyone reading this, or someone you know who would like to write occassional articles for my Homeschool eZine I'd love to know. My heart and passion is to empower parents to homeschool and teach a good foundation in Creation Science. I'd love to introduce our readers to some of you who also have the passion as well and who would like to write for publication.

Let me know and if you are interested write me felice (at) mediaangels.com

And be watching... the changes are coming!

Today my guest blogger is Cindy Rushton who graciously is sharing one of her articles on getting organized. This is something I struggle with as many of you know, and I have every book on the topic! Cindy is hosting her series for homeschool parents this week, live. If you miss the live event you can still join by listening to the archives and downloading all of the "goodies" that are priceless. Links are below to the event.

Quick Tips For the Perpetually Late, Disorganized, Stressed Out Mom!
By Cindy Rushton

Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2010

Does this SPEAK to you?  Nothing is more frustrating than great intentions but failure with the time management, organization, and gentle spirit thing!  So, what can REALLY help? Need a bit of hope?  Practical ideas? Well, beloved, here are a few tips that have made a world of difference for me:


-->    Be sure to slow down and have a quiet time EACH DAY! Take time for God to fill YOUR cup each day. Let Him give you HIS peace, order, and best of all, schedule!  Take time to hear HIS plans for your day.  Throughout the day, listen to His gentle direction.  Be sure that you are willing to let go of the things that God wants to prune away. Without this, all else is only a band-aid!  


-->    Invest in a Planner! I am the world’s worst at trying to do it all while trying desperately to remember those incredible details that are doomed to slip my brain! I decided to take a long, honest look at the things that were creating chaos. Most often, the biggest culprit was overcommitment or an underestimate of time involved with commitments. Writing down ALL commitments, along with an honest look at the time commitment involved (even going and coming OR planning the details around that commitment!), has made an indescribable impact on my life! Not to mention, another breeder of chaos in my life was constantly looking for information that needed to be in a dependable place like phone numbers, ordering information, etc. Keeping ONE binder with my information included eliminates the chaos, but it does even more! It gives my brain a rest!


-->    Evaluate to find the BEST that God has designed for YOU to do!  Sure, there are many “little things” that must be done to manage our homes, but if you are really struggling with balance, discipline yourself to write down everything that you are doing for a little while.  Pray over the importance of each and every thing. Time is so very precious. God gives us everything that we need to do all that He has designed for us to do, but He will not anoint those things that will choke out His best for our lives. So, really pray through…think through…weigh out everything. Listen to God for HIS goals for you.  Prune those things that are not in line with His goals for you. Get rid of any time wasters. Prioritize every activity, every day! Combine activities that can be done together to make the most of time. Delegate those things that others can do to help you be a good steward of your time. Then, make the most of your time doing the very best things that God has designed for you to do!


-->    Write IT down! Yep! Give your brain a break!  This may seem to compound your problem, but trust me this will help more than you know! It is NOT another thing to do! Rather, once things are written down, the work is done FOR you! For example, keeping a calendar of events in your planner will help to alleviate conflicts in your schedule. Blocking off plenty of time for each entry will help you to give yourself enough margin left over for LIFE! I may live less than five miles from downtown, but if there is an appointment there, I KNOW to give myself 30 minutes to get there! Also, I cannot tell you how much my lists from years ago are beginning to really help me! I have lists for school lessons, shopping, traveling, producing the magazines, speaking, etc. I may have to add to my generic list, but I cannot tell you how many times my lists have helped me to be sure that NOTHING was left out or forgotten. Plus, now the planning process is simplified.  I just pull out my list, go over the list, add anything that is missing, and get busy! Several of my lists are typed into my computer, ready to print. Talk about EASY planning! Find ways that you can simplify what you are doing—writing it down will probably be one of your first steps too!


-->    Keep your STUFF ready to use! Whether your planner or your purse or even your Bible/journal for church, get things together and in their special spot, ready to go.  I have a tote that includes all of the things that I need for Church. I keep it together, ready to go. Our school books stay in a milk crate (one for each child), ready to use at the table or to grab for our trips with the business. Everything that we need is ready at all times. My planner stays at my chair, ready to grab to leave the house. So on. Decide on what you need for planning, church, homeschooling, or your business. Get everything together. Find its very best spot for it to be easy to use, but not in the way or forgotten.  You will be surprised at how much stress this will alleviate!


-->    Put limits on your day! For years, I battled the different aspects of my day that tend to become monsters! Funny thing, I have never seen my family life ever become one of those monsters. My sweetheart and my children are so much more patient than my nasty kitchen! Memories will always wait for schoolwork to be completed. Laughter will always let the business monster rant and rage! The best (but most difficult) lesson of my life to date was that if I wanted the legacy that God had planned for me, then I had to diligently guard the different aspects of life. I had to consciously purpose to make memories and build relationships with those I love much, much more than a clean house or thriving business or successful homeschool. A whole day can zoom by just on the internet with the business…or working through our lessons…or even re-organizing a closet. Plus, those things wear me down till I am completely zapped! Oh, and then, I am not the nicest person on earth! (ouch—confessions hurt!)  While these things are precious and wonderful in their boundaries, I have to CONSTANTLY place limits to insure that we have a balanced life that makes the most of each day AND builds a legacy.

*******************************
Need MORE Help?
 
How about the ULTIMATE mom-time? Yep! Check out our Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2010! Cindy Rushton is the hostess of the Ultimate Homeschool Expo, the very first online homeschool convention. She is recording Preview Chats for the 2010 Ultimate Homeschool Convention RIGHT NOW! Join her wonderful guests FREE as they count down to the Ultimate Homeschool Expo (May 3-7, 2010--BUT! NEVER ENDING because it is an ONLINE Convention!). Check out all of the details here:

Ultimate Homeschool Expo 2010

Maybe you don't have a traditional school year, or maybe you do. When my two oldest were little we attempted to school all year, in that way there was no relearning information each August. As I get older and still find myself in the middle of schooling three, our summers tend to be times to kick back from some of the traditional subjects and delve into the subjects that lend themselves to projects.

I want to make memories. My oldest two dissolve into laughter as they recount dragging their red wagon around the yard in order to gather their latest treasure. They laugh when they remember the horror on my face when they asked if they could keep their treasures. I encouraged "Catch and Release"...with an emphasis on "Release"...

The youngest three are industrious. They like to build and create. Whether it is building blocks for the youngest or a slide-across tied from one tree to another in our yard with a platform for the oldest... or a craft project for my middle child, they are constantly on the go. When we discuss science it is always with an eye for the experiment or accompanying activity.

Truthfully? Many times I'd rather just read the information. Much easier that way! But, no! My children learn best by doing. The other day they launched a massive nature scavenger hunt complete with binoculars and cameras. Within the hour three children came in with their lists, comparing notes and then returning outdoors to show each other something missed.

It isn't often that I find myself with time to think. But, this day afforded me a few minutes of solitude as the children embarked on their hunt. How was I doing this year? What did I hope to change in the next? What curriculum would I need to replenish and which did I hope to continue to use. As I made my list I noticed a trend. Certain books were collecting dust.

Whenever we attempted to read them, there often were many filler words as if the author needed to add text to give the work more of a word count. We like “real” books, living books, books we can sink our teeth into…books that have a good basis, world-view or are based upon Christian virtues. Our family life is filled and busy, we do not have time for fluff. Even if it is good fluff. Does this mean we rarely enjoy pleasurable pastimes? Of course not.

Through the years I have changed the way I school. This year I’ve attempted an immersion of topic. For example, there are days when we delve into a specific copy and continue on as long as it holds our interest. If I am reading the children are permitted to take notes, illustrate what I am discussing or for younger ones build with blocks or other construction set. This is not a time to run around and play, but to listen attentively with many breaks for discussion and a retelling of the facts in the child’s own words. We break for games, such as the stepping game. (Directions for this game can be found on the “downloads” page of this website.) This game is handy to test any type of facts in a fun game that the children will ask for again and again no matter what the age.

Whatever method you use make sure it is not full of filler text, useless activities or busy-work that does not further your child’s studies. My children enjoy word search but I do not think there is a more useless activity! That is unless your child is making up the word search and they do this for each other.

I recently discussed the concept of “unschooling” with my twelve-year-old and she loved the idea. I asked her what she would study if she could entirely direct her day and I was surprised at the list of activities she rattled off, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. Ah, but the ex-public school teacher in me balked! What! Child directed? In reality, my children suggest many activities, many which we incorporate into our learning. Overall, there are many additions I’ll include before I consider the 2009-2010 school year complete in the Gerwitz household, yet we are on our way for one bag-up year end! How is your year going? Share with us!





















 

I spent Saturday at a Medical Ethics seminar designed for health care professionals. The idea that this conference was for doctors, nurses and the like did not deter me in the least even though I am neither. Why? Because one of the seminars that I was most interested in was by Professor Robert P. George, a Princeton professor, and a staunch Catholic.

The topic? “The Embryo: A Defense of Human Life”. I took two pages of copious notes as I listened to the voice of reason discuss this topic without the use of religious overtones. George's ideology and reasoning is flawless and his contemporaries those of faith and without faith give him due credit. He explained that Peter Singer, a bioethics expert believes the moral significance of a baby up to 28 days is in question. These ideas are significant for all thinking people and our culture is doomed if citizens believe this does not apply to them. This conference takes place in my home town yearly, due to the dedication of two Christian medical doctors who I am blessed to call my friends. I am urging all of you to look at your local calendar of events and see if this type of conference is happening in your own towns. If so, I urge all of you to attend.

I am changed after listening to what reasonable men consider the definition of worth, dignity and personhood. We are either the human kind or not. This direct discussion fits in perfectly with the creation vs. evoltuion debate. No animal kind has ever been found in an macro-evolution transition state. Yet, evolution is taught as fact.

Everyone agrees an embryo is a homo sapien, the question is deciding when it can live. And, my friends this has been left to reasonable men in politics. One doctor stood up and explained she is busy being a doctor, and commented on Professor George's recommendation that we become political. He urged us to vote in wise leaders. This lady right pointed out this battle is good against evil. George agreed, then went on to explain how politics have shaped public opinion and thought historically.

Men are deciding when life is worth living and should be protected, and when it is not. What has our world become?   

Here is the website for Raising Real Men

http://www.RaisingRealMen.com

and their facebook fan page: http://www.Facebook.com/raisingrealmen

You can download a free chapter of their book via their website.

Enjoy!

What happens when you are a homeschool family, with parents who are both editors and writers, and they have a passel of boys, 6 to be exact, and 2 girls? You write a book, of course! Hal land Melanie Young spoke on the topic of raising boys to a conference that was packed and found there was a need for this topic. When Hal broached the topic of writing a book to Melanie, she thought he was crazy.

Melanie began writing the next day, Hal went through it and added to the pages and soon they had chapter after chapter. I was blessed to receive a review copy which I enjoyed immensely. Having my own boys, three out of five children, has taught me a thing or two about raising boys. 

In fact I was further blessed to interview both of them on the radio show, today http://www.WritingandPublishingRadio.com. It was a delightful interview and you can listen to it by clicking on the link to visit the webpage. Best of all, the Youngs are offering Media Angels listeners a promotion, a 15% discount on their new book, "Raising Real Men". The promotion code is "Felice" ... :D

I'm ordering a few copies as gifts for the young families in my life who are raising boys. What are your challenges in raising boys? Share them with us. The promo expires April 5th.

I had the pleasure of interviewing author, Twila Bellk on my Blog Talk radio show today and she was a wealth of information for aspiring authors. If you want to listen to the interview the information is here:

http://www.writingandpubishingradio.com

Thinking About God

By Twila Belk
Author: "Gotta Get 'Em Fixed"
 
A few things about me -

I am head-over-heels in love with my wonderful, amazing, incredible Lord.
I get excited when I think about Him.

I get excited when I think about His love for me.

I get excited when I think about how big He is.

I get excited when I think about what He is able to do.

I get excited when I think about what He would like to do in and through every one of us.

Did you know that what we think about God is the most important thing in the world?

Why? Because it drives our life.

What we think about God affects the way we live.

What we think about God affects the way we love.

What we think about God affects the way we pray.

What we think about God affects our relationships and our ministries.

If we believe in the truth of God's Word, we know there is nothing God cannot do. He is a great big God who is the One, True, Living God. Apart from Him there is no other. The Scriptures prove again and again that God is very creative. He is far from logical in our way of thinking. The things God does and the way God does them most of the time just flat-out don't make any sense to us. A great example of that is the cross.

With that said, I want to encourage us all to line up our thinking with the truth of who God is and how big God is. I want to encourage us all to immerse ourselves in the immensity of God. To bask in His bigness. We gotta let God outside the box of our limited thinking and allow Him to work in His way without our conditions placed on Him. Amazing things can happen when we stop putting conditions on God and start expecting big things of Him. As our eyes and hearts are opened, we will see what He is able to do.

 
Felice asks: How do you get excited about God? Share your stories with us!

Today was Anne's twelfth birthday. Birthdays are a joyful event in our household. Not only are we celebrating a young life, we are rejoicing in our calling to be parents and in raising up our children to love and honor the Lord. Birthday banners proudly wish the child a Happy Day...but, they also include a tag line... "And may the Lord Bless You Today and Always."

So, it shouldn't surprise you that I share that expectations run pretty high around here that the day will be a wonderful event. We don't go overboard with presents (been there done that). What I've found is less is more if they are well chosen and heart felt. We do have special traditions, which the children enjoy. Cinnamon rolls, and bacon top the list of the birthday breakfast fare. Dad was even home to celebrate, and Christina (oldest daughter) and her little ones joined us soon after.

The plan was to open presents and then head to a local arcade style place compete with bumper cars, racing cars, bounce house and games. These places are among my top ten least favorite. In fact, the first choice was the science museum in Tampa, Florida. This two hour trek (one way) is well worth the trip, but today happened to be a baseball-game night for one of the boys, so the museum was out.

Since it was an official school day I was sure we'd have the place to ourselves and we did. This two week old game haven sported everything a 12 and under crew would adore. And therein lies the problem. My fourteen  year old was equally excited about a day off of school and this place was not his idea of fun.

He refused to have me purchase him an armband to participate in the games. He was visibly upset, but tried not to show it. I was upset as well wanting this to be a wonderful day of fun and connection with my family. My son decided he'd help to his older sister and her little girls. It was worthwhile for me to see his face as he helped the girls drive their battery powered cars into each other. My other two children had a blast. An entire race car track to drive on their own. Michael just reached the magic number 48" so he was finally old enough to drive. They equally enjoyed jumping in the bounce house with the little girls and running around carefree.

On one hand, my heart aches for my fourteen year old son. He is a serious soul and growing way to fast. He is the tallest in our family, now. However, despite his physical growth, I see a maturity beyond his years. Part of him wants to be a kid, but the other part struggles at being grown up. We discussed making the best of things and today he did. Lessons in action.

I cherish these days in my heart and I'm sure I will think about them as I have time to savor the moments. As parents we so want our children to be happy, defining this happiness is the key to all of our parental woes. I recently read a PowerPoint presentation from one of my author-clients. He too shared how his parents wanted him to have happiness and until he defined what that meant, he didn't know how.

This really made me think that what we want is not possible without Christ as the focus. All of the traits that make us wonderful to be around and virtuous have a place in Christian love. Today my older son gave of himself for his younger sister's birthday. He has touched me today and I had to share his kindness with all of you.

Has there been a time when your children have touched your heart and you've seen the fruit of your training?

Just the other day an upcoming Media Angels author sent me an email asking me how she could pray for me. What a blessing! I was at a low point in my day and I could use all the help I could get, and here it was in the form of the Lord working through a friend.

If I had to handle all of my daily trials on my own I would never make it! I rely on the Lord daily and most of the time I feel like it is "cries" to the Lord rather than "Praise" to the Lord. I am thankful that the Lord has blessed me with a very helpful (and large) family. Everyone pitches in especially when I am overwhelmed.

I have more ideas than time and right now my cup runneth over. I won't give you the laundry list of what is happening around here. I'm sure your list could equal or surpass mine. Let's purpose to pray for each other. I for your family and yours for mine.

This post is a way to apologize as well for a very, very late newletter. It has been ready to go for at least a month, but my shopping cart was not accepting payment so I did not want to post the newletter until it was working again! We now have a new shopping cart, and I have planned some great sales for you and I wanted everyone to take advantage of them.

So, in case you are not a newsletter member, please join. The link is on the right. And, if you are a newsletter member, be looking in your inbox it is coming soon!

Thanks for your prayers!!

Lively Trio: Valerie Bendt, Debbie Stayer and Felice Gerwitz

Conferences are fun times not only for the participants but for the vendors as well. I was able to enjoy meeting up with old friends (we're not OLD we still think we are in our twenties!).

In case you do not recognize these amazing women...they are in order from left-to-right... Valerie Bendt, Debbie Strayer, and me! (I'm normal they are amazing.) We attended the Tampa conference this past weekend and I reminded both women how they were my mentors.

For example, I attended a packed room to watch Valerie tell us how easy it was to create unit studies for our families. That instead of giving each child a different book and workbook we could enjoy family life (and not over stress grading so many different levels) and teach them together with  a "theme" or "topic" uniting us. Wow! I had never heard of the concept and bought every single book she had at her table! I was hooked, so much so that a few years later, about four, I was writing my own Unit Studies based upon Science, and joined the ranks of published author. I did tease Valerie that her daughters, dressed in period costumes depicting historical times, were a bit of an intimidation for me! (I hot glue, my mother sewed!). No matter, she was an inspiration to me then and continues to be today.

As for Debbie, what can I say. I learned by sitting at her feet … literally. Another convention, another packed-sold out room…and there I was on the floor by the front with my notebook not wanting to miss a word. This lady was telling me all about teaching Language Arts and the ways to do it using real books. Really? I didn’t need a text book and workbook with a teacher’s guide? Wow! (Of course I purchased all of her books as well.) As she spoke a man entered the room to set up a projector and screen (pre-power-point and computer days, people!). The screen almost toppled on her head and while all this was going on, Debbie kept right on talking and making us laugh. She quipped something about reminding her about teaching the kids at home while juggling household duties. My friend sitting next to me on the floor leaned over and said, “Felice, she sounds like you!”

Who me? There was no way I was getting up in front of a gazillion people and teaching on any educational topic. After all, I had left the hallowed halls of academia behind and I had joined the ranks of homeschool mom, wearing it proudly on my shoulder. The only time I brought out the “I was a teacher” line was when someone questioned my ability to teach my children at home. When you shared the teacher-bit with other home-educators the awe was definitely missing. It was a you versus them mentality for some.

So, where are we now? Ah, the new ages of homeschooling where vendor halls such as the one I attended this week end are sparsely populated by moms and dads. Why? Because, in my humble opinion the internet is the new information highway where parents can jump on, connect, learn and can buy books at a click of a button. Just let me say this, there is no substitution for talking to the author and gleaning the knowledge, they have to impart. These authors love teaching, know their stuff and want to share this knowledge with you. I hold both of these women in the highest regard. I learned from them, and while a late-bloomer compared to their accomplishments they inspired me to share my knowledge as well.

Check them out!
Valerie Bendt: http://valeriebendt.com/
Debbie Strayer: http://debbiestrayer.com/products/default.asp

If you hear of a convention in your town, take a few hours and head over to say, “Hi.” You will be so pleasantly surprised that you did. Many of us think, “Oh, I’ve been doing this so long I don’t need to go.” I loved going just to meet up with these and other friends attending, as well. We all need inspiration and these ladies inspired me, once again. This time by their friendship, their dedication to the business of education, and continuing on by attending conferences such as this one, because they care about you!

What is your favorite conference experience? Please share it with me.

Today was a teacher duty day and the school kids were home, and will be home for two days. In case you were wondering, my children were in school at home. Think about it. We don't need mid-term exams to determine how our children are progressing.

I know their strengths and their weaknesses from working with them each day. I realize the more time we spend together the better I know not only their interests but also the topics they'd rather avoid. The other day I listed every subject on the board and asked the kids to rank them. There were two categories...one labeled favorite and the other most important. They ranked religion/faith as the most important and favorites ranged from math, history and art! (At least lunch or recess was not an option.)

Having a handle on our children's progress is important but obtaining that informaiton via artificial means really doesn't help anyone. I wonder how many parents are really surprised by the results of their children's test scores. I can tell you that learning the information by cramming and then proceeding to forget really does not help a student in the long run. That is why shows such as "Are you as Smart as a Fifth Grader" are so popular. The answer is, "Yes, I am." I should be. I have completed 5th grade many times...as a student, an educator and a home educator...I'm finishing my 7th season!

Look at progress as stepping stones. Take one at a time, don't look down, stay your course, and remember the big picture. The rainbow IS at the end of the path. It reaches upward, where our treasures are being stored.

Note: for those of you following my posts of Ten Ways to Jazz Your Science ... the rest are coming soon. Thanks for your kind emails and patience as you wait for me to prioritize this blog!

I had a great impact on my life and this lady was not "really" my teacher in the true sense of the word. Her name was Mrs. Hughes and she was my 7th grade homeroom teacher. She and Mr. Hughes (a college professor) never had any children. Their children were those who entered their classroom doors.

Mrs. Hughes wore sunglasses when she worked the overhead projector, wore her graying hair in a classic bun, and was very nice to me...always. She and Mr. Hughes were frequent vistors at my parent's Italian restaurant, "Tony's" in Winter Haven, Florida. Over meals they would visit with my mother and my siblings and I as time permitted. They were always excited to see me and interested in my schooling in highschool and college. When I married, I received a card from the Hughes and as a newlywed, sent a thank-you note and subsequent once-a-year, Christmas greetings. In fact over the years we never missed sending each other cards. The Hughes' learned of the births of each of my five children and would send birthday wishes on the appropriate days with cards containing one or two dollars.  My children never met the Hughes as we lived miles apart. It was through the mail that I learned of the death of Mrs. Hughes many years ago, and the education fund Mr. Hughes set up for students in her name.

He wrote a long letter detailing thier wish to help other students at her alma mater. I wrote Mr. Hughes back thanking him for sharing his private thoughts, and he sent me another letter back. This was before the days of email and the internet, or I am sure Mr. Hughes would have been on board.

It was with sadness that several years ago, Mr. Hughes informed me that he would no longer be sending a Christmas card as he was entering a nursing home. I prayed for him and the changes that adavanced age was having on his life. This past Christmas I received a card and I could swear it was his (Mr. Hughes) writing on the front of the envelope, yet the return address was someone else's. It was a typed letter informing me that Mr. Hughes had died.

We were one of the families he had asked his friends to notify at the time of his death. The letter bluntly stated that he would have no funeral as he had no family and no children to survive him. Yet, he wanted us to know of his passing! He died on Christmas eve, 2009. What a wonderful and blessed time for him to retun to his heavenly Father and family in heaven!

What wonderful memories I am reminded of when I think of these two dear elderly people. They may not have had true children in the sense of the word, but they had a world of children whose lives they impacted through their generosity and kindness. As parents we can impact our child's lives in such a positive (or negative) way. We are to be reminded that life has many choices and we should strive to pray daily for the strength and guidance that only the Lord can bring.

I urge you to instill in your children a love of learning exploring and digging deeper into the facts. Lately, my children have been full of life, laughter and mischief and I have been rather harsh at times trying to get them back-to-the-books... I need to remind myself that true learning comes from experiences and interest in the topic at hand. Not all of learning can be fun, but with the right encouragement and direction, my children and yours, can be the light to others!

We are well into the holiday season; it is the second week of Advent, the four weeks before Christmas day. In this busy time, it is nice to take a break, and savor the festivities. Often in our harried lives, this is impossible, unless... you get the flu.

The Gerwitz clan has been struck with the flu. Perhaps with the dreaded H1N1. I don't know as we didn't seek medical help not feeling we were deathly ill ... well, there was one day... :)

I researched the symptoms online, talked to my friend's husband, an MD and decided we are all doing much better now, to worry about the specific type of flu. Dr. Bob said 90% of the people currently with the flu have H1N1.

What does it matter...we are on the mend (thank-you, Lord) and it takes me back to my original point, I've been able to enjoy the holiday season. I've been too tired for my normal high energy trips. I've sipped many cups of hot tea with my feet up. I've read (when my throat didn't hurt) aloud to the children, and eaten Vitamin C drops. We’ve watched Christmas movies, baked cookies and prepared the home by decorating a little at a time instead of the Saturday marathon in years past.

Everyone was affected in our family, except my elderly father who lives with us. He looked startled when I mentioned we might have the “dreaded” flu. The vaccine wasn't available to us and even if it had been, I'm not sure I would have wanted it. We now have very good antibodies in our system. Was it fun? No, not at all. It seemed to drag on forever. Our lives are built on these moments and our choices in regard to dealing with the issues that arise.

My children know about teachable moments. Our entire homeschool foundation is built upon them. This was another time to explain how blessed we are to reside in a state that has temperate climate. Today we were able to go outdoors and enjoy the sunshine while many states were hard hit with storms.

No matter what life brings we should always look at the bright moments. If not we will spend our time with would-of, should-of and feel discontent. For our family the results of the flu is a much slower life style and time to reflect and enjoy each other.

How wonderful to have this season to reflect on our dear Lord whose sacrifice makes all of ours seem weak by comparison. In this holiday season, I pray you find the true joy in knowing Christ and find that silver lining daily. This will be another Christmas memory to add to the pages of our lives. What are your favorite memories or traditions?

The winner of the November blog post contest is... Rodna James.

Rodna wins a $20.00 gift certificate to the Media Angels store. Thanks to all of your for participating and I pray you will continue to post comments! 

Blessings in Christ,

Felice

Oops... the sale should read five day sale not one day sale!

See deals up to 60% off on selected titles while supplies last. Friday is the last day of the sale!

Merry Christmas!

The BIG MEDIA ANGELS BOOK SALE BEGIN

Monday November 30, 2009 and ends November 30, 2009 at midnight.

This is a ONE day sale.

Will the holidays fast approching Media Angels is planning to hold HUGE one time event.

Every book will be on sale...everything!

How do you find out about this sale? Well, thats the catch. It is available to our newsletter subscribers. Are you one?

Click Here: form more information and to sign-up

http://www.mediaangels.com/newsletter

There are times when life gets in the way of schooling. Has this happened to you? Perhaps someone is ill, there is a new baby in the family, or it is the holiday season. There are times that video, computer and internet resources can be a wonderful supplement to your curriculum.

When we studied astronomy we downloaded free software that made looking at the night sky so much easier. We were able to maneuver around the night sky, look at planets close up and figure out what the night sky would look like when we went out in the evening to view the stars on a clear night. What a wonderful supplement to our curriculum (For software links look at our past newsletters in 2009)

Last year we studied world history and the children and I watched the series "Planet Earth". It was a spectacular cinematographic feat. I enjoyed it more than the children. We took notes, mapped the geographic locations of the varied DVD’s and kept track of the animals listed with drawings and additional research. This can be a stand-alone assignment for older children, with you keeping a watchful “ear” as you view the show, nearby.

Of course, since your children are grounded in the evolution vs. creation debate, hint, hint, wink ;) they can view these programs with an ear out for anti-creation thought. If not, you may want to look at our curriculum.

Television Programs: the most common are on the Discovery station and PBS Science. Noted shows include, "Bill Neye the Science Guy, Newton's Apple, Weird Science.


Here are a few Internet websites.

Creation

http://www.creationism.org/
http://www.answersingenesis.org
Secular
http://www.nasa.gov/
http://www.newtonsapple.tv/
http://www.pbs.org/science/
Discovery Channel
Alaska: http://dsc.discovery.com/tv/alaska/alaska-week.html
http://www.sciencestoreforthestars.com/science-tv-shows.html


What are your favorite science internet websites or television programs? Share your favorites with us!

And the winner is... Penny Douglas. If you would email me at felice (at) mediaangels.com I will send you the details. You won $20.00 of free product shipped to your door. Check out the website store, make your selection and email me your choics, and your address: http://store.mediaangels.com

One more month to win free Media Angels book! I'm extending the contest and will be posting much more in November, so stay tuned. The person who posts the most will win. There will be up to three winners chosen! Please enter even if you have won in the past. (Winners are chosen randomly)

Also, tell your friends about this contest as well as the Media Angels fan page here:  http://bit.ly/MediaAngelsFanPage

If you are not a newsletter subscriber, please click the newsletter link and download the fall edition of the Media Angels newsletter for more discounts.

Thanks for your particpation, friendship and best of all, useful comments!

Just in case you are not aware of it...for those interested in becoming an author, I have a blog for you! Several years ago I wrote a book on the topic of writing. Information in a Nutshell: Writing and Publishing.

If you would like additional information about being an author go to

Information in a Nutshell: Writing and Publishing Tips

Have you been to a hands-on nature center or visited a Planetarium lately? My children always enjoy a visit to our local center. There are so many great exhibits and this is one time when the children are encouraged to touch the displays! If your children are young, you may want to set some parameters, or limit your first trip. Our nature center changes exhibits from time to time and it is wise to ask the director or docent for information about upcoming themes. If there is a membership or newsletter you will want to join or subscribe.

Nature centers often include designated walks, museum, guides, gift shop, and group discounts. If you do not have a Nature Center in your town, perhaps you could find the closest one to you and plan a visit. Our children attended many of the science workshops they offered during winter, spring and summer breaks.

We are blessed that our nature center includes a planetarium. If you want a guide to teach your family the fine art of star gazing, then a Planetarium is for you. Most have shows (some that are pre-taped) and are very enjoyable and informative. (Well, if you can side-step the part that starts with, “Billions of years ago…”)

Most centers feature high-powered telescopes and many of the nature guides we have met have been very enthusiastic, some offering to stay as long as we wanted! I took an Astronomy class in college (I wanted an "easy" science credit (wrong!). Still, the experience opened up an entirely new world to me and to this day I enjoy the topic as do my children.

If there isn't a planetarium nearby, don't miss this great time of the year to explore the stars.  I recommend that anyone can attempt star gazing at home or in a dimly lit area. It’s exciting to take a car ride in the evening to view stars. Get acclimated to the dark first. Put out a big blanket or get out the lawn chairs use a glow in the dark star finder and a good pair of binoculars and enjoy. (If you want more information on astronomy, I have an e-course of a recorded class I taught on mp3 with handouts here: http://www.talk-a-latte.com/astronomy.html)

One of my favorite books is Classical Astronomy. The author also has a newsletter with great tips and updates about celestial events. http://www.classicalastronomy.com/

What are your experiences with nature centers or star gazing?

Johnsonhomeschool... please email me your contact information at felice at mediaangels.com

Congratulations! You win $20 worth of Media Angels products. Please continue to post... the person who posts the most this next month...in October will be placed in the random drawing, twice!

Thanks again to all of you who have posted a comment. I love hearing from you!

If you are teaching by reading science textbooks or having your child read the information in a workbook and skipping the experiments then your child may find science very boring.

This year my son requested a textbook for his 9th grade Biology class. This is a child who is a hands-on, roll up your sleeves and let’s gets into it kind of person. We have always used a hands-on method for science, keeping a lab notebook that was illustrated and scientific method sheets rounded off our curriculum. Use your imagination and you will understand what I’m up against this year.

The reason I didn’t like science as a child was the lack of activity in our science classes. I don’t recall doing any experiments until I reached high school. I felt a lot like my son, vocabulary that was extensive and concepts over my head. The amazing thing? When I read his text book I understand the lessons, the illustrations are beautiful and well explained and the questions are not extremely difficult. But, to him it is torture. We are a part of a co-op and so, the activities and the hands-on activities are demonstrated there. Yet, looking in a microscope is definitely not his idea of interesting.

I am supplementing his curriculum with television documentaries, old videos left over from my older children’s homeschool days, and online websites. Still, I don’t think Biology class will be listed among his favorites.

With hands on experiment or activity come a better understanding and a greater chance for the retention of knowledge. Just observing has its limitations, just experimentation has its limits and the scientific method in and of itself has its limits.  Yet, I usually use a scientific method sheet when conducting experiments. These are easy to use and the child at least has an idea of the concept learned. (Click on the homeschool link on this website and find the downloadable scientific method sheets.)

Not everything is observable but with a mixture of reading about the topic and doing an activity or experiment, you will have a wonderful combination. There are too many great experiment books to mention. I have many reviews in my book, Teaching Science and Having Fun!

Have you had a year when nothing seems to go right? Or a method that does not work for you? Please share your comments with me!

Nature Walks:

There is something so refreshing about the thought of being outdoors. I know it all depends on the weather, time of the year, and a few other important facts, like did you a get a good nights sleep. Each of my children loves being outdoors. When they were infants, taking them outdoors was one of the ways to quiet down a fussing infant.

Here a few things to consider when planning a walk or hike:

Senses: Use your eyes, ears and nose to capture the sights, sounds, and scents ... and don't forget touch!

Obedience: With a few instructions, such as: staying on the path; not touching leaves of three (might be poison ivy or oak); beware of poisonous critters, your adventure should be fun. (Don't scare the children, just make them aware they are going into an animal's habitat and this is not ours!)

Possible supplies: A magnifying glass, binoculars, sunscreen/ bug screen, camera, pad and paper, flashlight, zipper baggie, tweezers, wet wipes, bug catcher container (for catch and release), backpack to carry supplies.  Proper clothing, light colors in the summer and a hat, warm clothes in the winter!

Try to take walks in different ecosystems during the course of your school years. One year we hit several, took a break for a year and then went on many hikes the next. Begin simply in your own neighborhood then branch out. If you have never camped maybe this is a time to get started. If the thought of buying everything you need to “rough” it puts you off you may want to consider going to a “retreat” campground. Look around and see what is available nearby or take a trip!  Another idea is to rent a neighbor's equipment or look on Craig's list or similiar types of local listings for good deals.

Mountainous area: Look at rock formations. In Florida, there is an abundance of porous rock called limestone. Many times the kids can use a sharp object and scrape away at it and find fossil formations. I have the children look at the rock formations and categorize them. You can have them collect rocks from different locations they visit or enlist family and friends to bring rocks back for them. One year my mother returned from Italy with lava rock. We still have it! Remember use your resources

Beach area: Study or collect shells, coquinas are great fun to watch (Take a clear cup and fill bottom with sand some water and these tiny creatures. Then watch them bury down into the sand. It’s neat. Make a shell collection/ organize and classify your finds at the beach. Rules: don't take any living critter that is in a shell. Empty shells are fine. We can no longer take sand dollars or starfish if they are living.

Swamp area: There is an abundance of swamps in the Southern area of Florida. I have first hand knowledge of this because we happen to live in the middle of an area known as the 6-mile cypress slough. Some of our land is underwater for a good part of the summer. While it may not make me very happy at times, it supplies an abundance of wildlife for the children to observe and learn about. Just this week we observed: white ibis, blue heron, marsh hawks, egrets and more.  

Did I leave anything out? I am sure I did. Please share memories of nature hikes taken with your children.

Plant a Garden

With fall, fast approaching a garden may be out of the questions, but for those of us who live in the south now is the best time. The benefits of growing a garden are innumerable such as teaching children the art of: giving, responsibility, nurturing, productivity, and accomplishment.  I am always astonished when I see the prices on the curriculum that "teaches" these things in a workbook format. Home education lends itself beautifully to incorporating all types of character formation, naturally in the form of life skills.

From a scientific point of view, the children could learn several specifics such as: soil analysis, seed germination, weather, seasons, calendar, insect control with and without pesticides, composting and fertilizers and best of all fruits of labor! You could study the body: eating, digestion, health, and nutrition.

My children have enjoyed planting gardens, especially my son, Nicholas. He is not one to sit still long enough to have his picture taken, but when his third garden was successful, he was excited to pose happily next to plates and baskets full of freshly picked produce.

Even if you can't physically plant a garden you can visit one. Even city dwellers are often found using window sill planters to grow herbs. There is nothing like fresh basil in tomato sauce, something we are able to successfuly grow!

If you have never tried srouting a bean you can do this easily with little ones. Take a dry bean (fava or something similar), wet a cotton ball with water and place both in a zippered sandwich bag. Keep the cotton ball moist but not wet, and watch your bean sprout! You can plant this or discard after your children draw or take pictures of it to record in their nature journals.

Do you have any garden memories? Please share them with me.

Congratulations to all of you who have posted a comment to my blog for the month of August! I appreciate your insight.

The winner for August 2009 is Heather.

Thanks Heather, for posting a comment to my blog...please contact me at felice at mediaangels.com for instructions on how to redeem your prize.

And...what is her prize?

Free books and free shipping. Heather you may select up to twenty dollars worth of Media Angels product from the catalog here: http://store.mediaangels.com

Email me your choices and your snail mail address.

Readers....would you like a chance to win? All you need to do is comment to a blog post in the month of September and you may be the winner that is blessed this month!

In answer to a question I received, yes, you can win again. Names are drawn in random.

Blessings!

Felice