tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28051512945179843382024-03-19T00:45:08.075-05:00 keeping ezekielLora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.comBlogger580125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-86285844206606343492019-10-18T09:15:00.001-05:002019-10-18T09:15:22.484-05:00Day 23 - TLT 4h 10mYou have been starting school on time, on your own, everyday. I'm very proud of you for that.<br />
I have been staying away in the mornings so you can get rolling without anyone around you. You prefer that. It's causing me to get out of the loop with the classes you do before I start in with you, but we need to come up with some way to balance that so we both have what we need. We're working it out.<br />
<br />
Today you did:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Writing from 7:50 to 8:30 (40m)</li>
<li>Cultural Geography from 8:30 to 9:10 (40m)</li>
<li>Spanish from 9:10 to 9:40 (30m)</li>
<li>Algebra from 10:00 to 12:00 (120m)</li>
<li>Reading with Dad and me (20m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
You haven't been doing Science or Health because we are planning to do them for the week on the weekends to lighten your daily schedule. You have been reading with Dad and me some evenings. :) </div>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-91565182318140345472019-10-10T20:04:00.001-05:002019-10-10T20:04:33.412-05:00Day 19 - TLT 4h 15mToday you started school AT 8:00 on your own. I am very proud of you for that. I could tell you timed your morning and made a point to meet that goal.<br />
I have finished creating my little corner with a lot more organization and cuteness. :)<br />
I am HERE this morning, but not teaching. You did bring up an issue you had with a question in a Spanish quiz, and we had some words over it. We called your dad to get his input. It was all unfortunate, since you really take it hard when things aren't pleasant and gentle coming from me. These growing pains are necessary, but no more fun for me that you, love. You'll get there.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>You started your own day with Cultural Geography from 8:00 to 8:20 (20m)</li>
<li>Then you did Writing and Grammar from 8:20 to 9:10 (70m)</li>
<li>Next Spanish from from 9:10 to 10:15 (65m)</li>
<li>Science from 10:20 to 11:20 (60m)</li>
<li>Lunch 11:20 to 11:50</li>
<li>Math from 11:50 to 12:30 (40m)</li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-20607045632490460152019-10-10T09:56:00.002-05:002019-10-10T09:56:33.100-05:00Day 18 - TLT 4h 45m Today we attempted to give you more space in the morning to start school on your own. The biggest downfall to this was that you did not get to do Bible time, which is not only important, but generally important to do first in our schedule. Nonetheless, you did work on your classes in succession, on your own for the most part.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Writing 8:30 to 10:15 (135m)<br /></li>
<li>Spanish 10:20 to 11:00 (40m)<br /></li>
<li>Cultural Geography 11:00 to 11:20 (20m)<br /></li>
<li>Lunch break 11:30 to 12:00<br /></li>
<li>Algebra 1:00 to 2:00 (60m)<br /></li>
<li>Science 2:00 to 2:30 (30m) </li>
</ul>
<div>
I didn't like not knowing what was going on for your classes all day. It was good for us to see how that would work. We're going to try less hand's off, from me, but still giving you free reign in the morning to have less teaching or studying together. I'm not sure about any of it. But it's just a good idea to experiment right now because something isn't quite right. We'll get it. </div>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-28236862730304600202019-10-10T09:46:00.002-05:002019-10-10T09:46:44.382-05:00Day 17 - TLT 3h 20mThis morning we started on time again! :) With our new Bible Study in the kitchen over breakfast. So proud of us.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Bible and Writing and Grammar from 8:00 to 9:00 (60m)</li>
<li>Algebra from 9:15 to 10:50 (95m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Algebra led to a great big break down (mine) and we spent about an hour after I yelled at you for arguing with me about everything and overall making school time much harder than it needed to be. Then we had lunch and came back to school. That's all I have to say. I don't know. lol</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Science 1:15 to 2:00 Testing (45m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
This day was hard. We learned that we might need to adjust some things for our mornings. We will be trying some new ideas to promote peace and less arguing. </div>
</div>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-66528944339249257452019-10-07T15:59:00.001-05:002019-10-07T15:59:07.188-05:00Day 16 - TLT 5h 40mWe got up and started on time today!!! Whooo-hoooo! So glad for us. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We started our Jesus time at 8:00. We are beginning a new series together. I'm very excited about it. We finished at 8:15 and you did the assignment until 8:25. (25m)<br /></li>
<li>We did Algebra from 8:30 to 11:15<br />We ended up having a long conversation about attitude, dark walls causing obstacles, bright open hallways with resources and a partner... it took til 11:45. I hope it was fruitful at all. (165m) <br /></li>
<li>You ate from 11:45 to 12:45<br /></li>
<li>Spanish from 12:45 to 1:35 (50m)<br /></li>
<li>Cultural Geography from 1:45 to 2:15 (30m)<br /></li>
<li>Writing and Grammar from 2:25 to 3:15 (40m)<br /></li>
<li>Science from 3:30 to 4:00 (30m) </li>
</ul>
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-32922303249307031562019-10-04T15:23:00.001-05:002019-10-04T15:23:11.342-05:00Day 15 TLT 3h 50mWe started school at 8:30 today. It's better than the last couple days. :) We will be adding an evening reading session, when you, your Dad and I will be reading our own books to ourselves for 30 minutes or so, together after dinner. Your Dad came up with it, and I think it's a great idea!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We started with Bible of course. From 8:30 to 8:50 (20m)</li>
<li>Next we did Algebra from 8:50 to 10:10 (80m) </li>
<li>Then you did Cultural Geography from 10:15 to 10:30 (15m) </li>
<li>Followed by Spanish from 10:30 to 11:10 (40m)</li>
<li>Grammar and Writing from 11:15 to 12:50 (95m)</li>
<li>You had lunch from 1 to 2:00 </li>
<li>We finished with Science from 2:00 to 2:40 (40m) </li>
</ul>
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-84610474987224345832019-10-02T14:35:00.000-05:002019-10-02T14:35:57.059-05:00Day 14 - TLT 5h 15m We started school late again today. We should probably get on track. It's hard to start early having had such a break due to your cold last week. We'll get it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We did <b>Bible</b> from 9:15 to 9:30 (15m)<br /></li>
<li>Followed by <b>Algebra</b>. We did the same thing we did yesterday anew, and again it only took from 9:40 to 11:00 (80m)<br /></li>
<li>Then you did<b> Spanish</b> from 11:10 to 11:40. You are finding this to be a lot of review, that isn't as fun for you as it was at first. You are finding it to be boring. But the truth is, boring as it may be, it's an excellent review for you, mixed with a good Bible based teaching. (30m)<br /></li>
<li>We took a short lunch break from 11:50 to 12:20.<br /></li>
<li><b>Writing and Grammar</b> from 12:20 to 1:30 (70m)<br /></li>
<li><b>Cultural Geography</b> from 1:30 to 2:00 (30m)<br /></li>
<li>Science 2:00 to 2:30 (30m)<br /></li>
<li>We hauled rocks for Phy Ed (60m)</li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-53170638624482386022019-10-01T17:04:00.002-05:002019-10-01T17:04:49.910-05:00Day 13 TLT 5h 50mWe started later than usual today. That's perfectly fine. It's going to be a good day!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We did Bible from 9 to 9:30 (30m)<br /></li>
<li>We did Algebra a different way today and shaved 30 to 45 minutes off our usual time - from 9:30 to 11:00. We did the assignment, for practice, in parts, after each lesson section. Brilliant! And I learned the lesson with you from my own desk, so we got to do the practices together (which is always the most fun - like playing a game) (90m)<br /></li>
<li>You did Spanish next from 11:10 to 12:00 (50m)<br /></li>
<li>You had lunch and a break afterward, from 12:15 to 1:45<br /></li>
<li>We returned to do Cultural Geography from 2:00 to 3:00 (60m)<br /></li>
<li>You did Writing and Grammar from 3:00 to 5:00 (120m)</li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-71403988458208086652019-09-30T13:04:00.000-05:002019-09-30T13:04:33.267-05:00Day 12 TLT 3h 10mCrazy that we're 20 days into school and only on day 12. ?? We did have Thursday and Friday vacation for the Aries concert and Chicago. But also you were sick this past week and only did one full day of school total. I felt so bad for you. It was a rough cold. You spent most of your days in bed and you lost weight from not eating much.<br />
But today we are back in full swing with your cold being much better, and IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY!!! I was planning to have this day off with you, but with the past week, I decided we shouldn't afford another day off. You didn't mind at all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We started with Bible from 8:40 to 9:10 (20m)<br /></li>
<li>Then we worked on Algebra from 9:20 to 11:40 in review and studying for you Chapter Test. Then you took your test. (2h 20m)<br /></li>
<li>You had lunch from 11:45 to 12:50<br /></li>
<li>Next we corrected your Math Test. You got an A on it. :)<br /></li>
<li>Because we are on day 12 and all the rest of your courses say you are to begin day 13, we just called a day to celebrate your Birthday. You and I cleaned up the house quick, and went outside. It's 80 degrees today. Whoot! Homeschool rules.<br /></li>
<li>AND we call that outdoor action in the form of walking Phy Ed. (30m)<br /><br /></li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-65168000798451283442019-09-30T10:55:00.002-05:002019-09-30T10:55:57.617-05:00Day Nine - TLT 6h 40m<ul>
<li>Today we started with <b>Bible</b> reading from 8:10 to 8:50. We read about Moses going up to the Mt. and receiving the commandments, and all the Isrealites giving up on him and God and worshiping the golden calf as an idol. We felt like it was pretty immature of Moses to break the tablets, GOD wrote and gave him after SIX weeks together, when he saw this. Just saying. (40min)<br /></li>
<li>You started your courses with <b>Algebra</b>. From 9:00 to 11:00. You had to take the longest notes ever for the lesson - Three pages! I'm glad you got this class out of the way first today. (120m)<br /></li>
<li>You had lunch from 11:00 to 11:45.<br /></li>
<li>Next you did <b>Cultural Geography</b> from 11:45 to 12:30. Still on Map stuff. (90min)<br /></li>
<li><b>Science</b> was from 12:35 to 1:20. (45min)<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Writing and Grammar </b>from 1:30 to 2:30 (60m)<br /></li>
<li>Spanish was from 2:30 to 3:15 (45m)</li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-22886964417175667602019-09-25T08:31:00.002-05:002019-09-25T08:31:45.609-05:00Day 11 - TLT 4h 35mI was a school slacker today. Didn't get to my desk until 8:30. You were already started! :) Nice job.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>You did <b>Spanish</b> from 8:15 to 9 (45m) There's so much review, so I'm sure it's nice to just sit back and enjoy your entertaining teacher and not work to hard. For some odd reason you're a day ahead in your Spanish than all your other classes. ???<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Writing and Grammar </b>from 9 to 9:45 (45m)<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Cultural Geography</b> from 9:45 to 11:15 (30m)<br /></li>
<li>You ate lunch from 11:15 to 1:30<br /></li>
<li>We did <b>Science Lab</b> from 1:30 to 2:20 (50m)<br /></li>
<li>We did <b>Algebra </b>from 2:30 to 3:45 (75m)<br /></li>
<li>Did <b>Phy Ed</b> - worked out (30m) <span style="background-color: yellow;">Carry over Phy Ed from a 3 hour walk with Zach on Sat </span></li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-16559553064355939002019-09-18T08:04:00.000-05:002019-09-18T08:04:33.284-05:00Day 10 - TLT 5h 45mToday we started school on time. You woke up extra early to mow the lawn, but when you got out there, the grass was too wet with dew. <br />
<ul>
<li>We started <b>Bible </b>reading at 8:10 to 8:30. (20m)<br /></li>
<li>We did independent <b>Algebra</b> review of yesterday's lesson to give more time and practice to the concepts. 8:30 to 11:00. We still aren't completely comfortable with the concepts. We really could use more practice. May focus tomorrow on practicing concepts rather than move ahead in program. (150m)<br /></li>
<li>Then you got to mow the lawn from 11:10 to 11:45. We're counting that for some <b>Phy Ed</b> because it's great movement. :) (35m)<br /></li>
<li> You at lunch from 12:00 to 1:00 then showered.<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Writing and Grammar</b> from 1:30 to 2:15 (45m)<br /></li>
<li>We did <b>Science</b> from 2:15 to 2:40 (25m)<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Cultural Geography</b> from 2:40 to 3:20 (40m)<br /></li>
<li>Finally, you did <b>Spanish</b> 3:30 to 4:00 (30m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
I went to the beach at 3:00 today. You insisted because it's 80 degrees and we won't have such warm days much longer. You finished your CG and Spanish without me. I like that this program guides you if you have to be on your own (so I can go to the beach). Tomorrow I will look over your work and see how you did. Very convenient. :) </div>
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-35714744203121793732019-09-13T14:50:00.001-05:002019-09-13T14:50:33.744-05:00Day 8 - TLT 5h 15mWe woke up and started late today. Your dad has off work, and so we didn't have our human alarm clock. :) I want to say that a flexible start time is our right as homeschoolers, but I know the truth is, the later we start the later we finish. With an 6 to 8 hour schedule in front of us, that will be frustrating to you. We did start at 8:45 tho, so not too late.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We started with Bible, from 8:45 to 9:00. We read a really cool thing Sonny shared about Friday the 13th, and what the Word says about superstitions and the like. (15m)<br /></li>
<li>You jumped right into Cultural Geography from 9:00 to 9:30. You watched your lesson, took notes on the new material (map reading review for you on the Geographic Grid), did your reading and assignment. (30m)<br /></li>
<li>You had a quick breakfast break.<br /></li>
<li>Next you did Writing & Grammar from 9:45 to 10:30 (45m)<br /></li>
<li>After that you did Science from 10:35 to 11:00 WHOOT! I read your chapter to you and you took solid notes. (25m)<br /></li>
<li>Next up! Spanish. From 11:05 to 11:45. (40m)<br /></li>
<li>You ate lunch from 11:45 to 12:30<br /></li>
<li>You did Algebra from 12:30 to 2:10. (100m)<br /></li>
<li>We walked for an hour for Phy Ed. (60m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
I'm not sure what it is that leaves you with shorter, easier days like this once in a while. I'm right here the whole time, so I know it's not you. Somedays, you do take 10-15 mins to yourself between a couple classes rather than 5 mins. But that would only add under and hour or less. I SEE the long and intense requirements of our bigger days. Today was a short and sweet one. And it couldn't have come at a better time for you. We have never appreciated weekends so much in years! Happy Weekend son! :)</div>
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-11721167340623278232019-09-12T22:29:00.001-05:002019-09-13T09:09:16.946-05:00Day Seven - TLT 6h 45mWe were up on time and ready by 8:15 again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Our <b>Bible </b>time 8:15 to 9:30 turned into relationship building, open talk, and life lessons. I know this is one of the most valuable parts of Homeschooling for us. Being able to really talk with you, hear from you, speak into you, and learn from you; who you are, what you're about, how you feel, what you want, where you're heading... I'm grateful to God that He made a way for our family to invest in one another so thoroughly. I love knowing you. (75m)</li>
<li>You did <b>Cultural Geography</b> from 9:40 to 11:00. Class, reading, note taking during and after both, assignment, studying countries of North America and acing the test! Nice job! (80m)</li>
<li><b>Spanish</b> was from 11:10 to 11:40 (30m)</li>
<li>Lunch from 11:45 to 12:45</li>
<li>You did <b>Writing & Grammar</b> from 12:55 to 1:25. It was all a Chapter Test. (30m)</li>
<li>You did Science from 1:35 to 2:15. It too was all a Chapter Test. (40m)</li>
<li>Then you did Algebra from 2:30 to 4:10. It really pleases me to see how hard you work and how resourceful you are at note taking, and looking up help options for areas you'd like more info on, or get stuck with. Today you used the internet to watch a video done by a different teacher concerning one of your section review questions. (100m)</li>
<li>When you finished we went back and read the Science assignment and completed a W&G worksheet in the back of your book that we missed a couple days ago. (30m)</li>
<li>We did health from 4:40 to 5:00 (20m)</li>
<li>We did not do Art today, for time-sake. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think we can safely say we started about and hour later than usual because of our morning conversation. I hear you when you say that this year is hard. It is. And so SO good. I love that it's challenging and stretching you, giving you solid blocks in every subject to build upon day, after day. We are just one week in, and I already feel like we've gained and grown so much as a homeschool, and you as a student. :) </div>
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Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-45340247957108074452019-09-12T11:09:00.004-05:002019-09-12T11:09:54.474-05:00Day Six - TLT 8h 15mThis morning, I made homemade Waffles in our new mini waffle maker that turns out to be the exact size and shape of Eggos. The recipe I used tasted more like waffles or pancake waffles. I will keep experimenting. I'm sure you won't mind being the tester. :)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>We read <b>Bible</b> from 8:15 to 8:45 - about the complaining Israelites on the "trip" to Cannan. Also, we read about manna and the Sabbath. (30m)</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>From 8:50 to 9:30 we reviewed the <b>Physical Science</b> chapter you are in, you watched the review video and took a pre-test. You did really well, only getting one question wrong. As always. (40m)<br /></li>
<li>From 9:40 to 10:00 you did <b>Cultural Geography</b> and a closer look at the North American Countries. (20m)<br /></li>
<li>From 10:00 to 10:55 you did <b>Spanish</b>. I felt like with SEVEN steps today, Spanish was coming for your soul! lol You did it well though. I think Spanish is your fave this year. I know the teacher is your favorite for sure. :) (55m)<br /></li>
<li>We had lunch from 11:00 to 12:00<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Writing & Grammar</b> from 12:10 to 4:30. This time was because we had a lot of catching up and revisions to notes we were not aware of - in MAJOR prep for a test. Sometimes test prep needs to take time and energy. Keeping up on notes and learning the information as it's taught, including doing the provided practices, results in much shorter prep times. (4h 20m)<br /></li>
<li>You did <b>Algebra</b> from 4:40 to 6:10 (1h 30m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Between the added W&G work, my crazy joke swears and the rubber band run we made for your braces, today was a bit of a roller coaster. All in all I'd say it was pretty fun, actually. It's HARD to change course from such a free and fun summer of NOTHING we don't want to do, to even greater demands, standards and time investment expected for this years schooling. Even I am feeling caged and like I want to break free and be wild sometimes. We might need to add a little bit of fun, joking, weird theatrical reading, meme breaks, etc... to help make this season more enjoyable. Either way, I love that I get to be with you, whatever the day looks like. :) You're awesome. </div>
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Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-24131880124809418362019-09-10T13:59:00.002-05:002019-09-10T14:00:18.485-05:00Day 5 - TLT 5h 35mThis morning we started on time!! :) I played video games before school, and got other stuff done just for me, early. That was nice. You got right up at 7:00 and got ready for your day.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>From 8 to 8:20 we did <b>Bible</b>. Reading about the Red Sea parting. (20m)</li>
<li>From 8:25 to 10:00 you did <b>Algebra</b>, diligently. (1h 35m)</li>
<li>From 10:10 to 10:30 you did <b>Cultural Geography</b>. You were SO happy to have completed the work, which was a test and reading assignment, in such a short time today. It does seem that somedays your lessons require less of you than others. That's nice. Like opening a little gift to see what's in store each class, everyday. I'm sure it feels just like Christmas to you. lol :) (20m)</li>
<li>From 10:30 to 10:40 we did some geography work that I prepared for you, reviewing the continents today. Just making sure you DO know where Australia is. :) (10m)</li>
<li>From 10:40 to 11:15 you did <b>Writing and Grammar</b>. (35m)</li>
<li>From 11:20 to 12:00 you did <b>Science </b>Lab and Chapter Test. You are a star at Science. Always have been. Impressed me with your verbal responses and recollection of lessons. (40m)</li>
<li>From 12:05 to 12:50 you did <b>Spanish</b> (45m)</li>
<li>From 1:00 to 1:45 we did <b>Health</b> (45m)</li>
<li>From 1:50 to 2:15 you did <b>Art </b>with a lot of fun art stuff (25m)</li>
</ul>
<div>
You had a great attitude today. You expressed that you felt like I was angry a bit today. I was not at all, but I might have been a little more straight and narrow minded today. Partly because of yesterday, and partly because it's going to be 80 degrees today and I want to finish school on time so we can enjoy it! :) </div>
<div>
<br />
It's 2:15 and I'm going to the beach!!!!! :) :) :) </div>
<div>
Peace out!</div>
<div>
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Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-73476583143768000032019-09-09T17:52:00.001-05:002019-09-10T14:00:37.766-05:00Day Four - TLT 6h 10mWe started school at 8:15 today. That just might be our start time. It happens that way more than not. Or we need 15 minutes longer than our start time whenever it is, and would start closer to 8:30 if we moved it to 8:15. :) Not sure. We'll keep it 8:00 and start at 8:15 for now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>From 8:15 to 8:40 we did <b>Bible</b> reading and talked about the Passover. (20m)</li>
<li>You completed <b>Algebra</b> from 8:45 to 9:20. :) This is not because you did anything faster or better. You've been very proficient all along. The lesson just wasn't as long or demanding. I like that. (35m)</li>
<li><i>(Free time of 40m between classes for shower)</i></li>
<li>You started <b>Cultural Geography</b> at 10:00. We took a lunch break at 11, and resumed CG at 12:00. You finished at 12:30. It was longer than usual today. There was a lot for you to accomplish and you did a little procrastinating on the essay portion. It turned out great though. You have good ideas worth listening to and the way you write them makes it fun to read. (1h 30m)</li>
<li><i>(Free time of 30 minutes between classes)</i></li>
<li>You did <b>Writing and Grammar</b> from 1:00 to 2:00. We corrected, studied and reviewed lesson using the assignment and you took a quiz. (1h)</li>
<li>Next you did <b>Physical Science</b> from 2:10 to 2:40 when you walked away from it. (30m)<br /> </li>
<li>We took a walk for <b>Phy Ed</b> and visited the neighbors for about 20 minutes. (60m)</li>
<li>You did <b>Spanish</b> from 4:15 to 5:00. (45m)</li>
<li>We finished Physical Science between 5:00 and 5:30. (30m)</li>
</ul>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-88812569472771358882019-09-05T17:35:00.000-05:002019-09-05T17:58:45.863-05:00Day Three - TLT 6hr 50minThird day in, and one more to go for the week!<br />
You got up at 7am on the dot today. When I came up to get you at 8:05 you were finishing your breakfast and said you did not want to do school and you were still hungry. I told you to grab some more breakfast and come on down. When you came down you were in a better mood already. :)<br />
<ul>
<li>We did Bible from 8:10 to 8:30. You were not happy to read the second half, but you did read it and very well.</li>
<li>You did Algebra from 8:40 to 10:30 including lesson, assignment, quiz and test. You proved mastery to move forward to the next lesson. (There was a 10 minute phone call that came in about your new job at the dog center that you did stop the course for!) I sent in a help ticket to BJU asking about the intended duration of this class. The way it is set up, you don't have a choice but to take a couple of hours for math when all is going smoothly on our end. That seems extensive. </li>
<li>You did Cultural Geography from 10:35 to 12:00. You noticed that the lessons ARE Geographical in nature, Biblical or not. Yay for you! And we learned some interesting info about the Chinese culture, the trajectory of their population, and the issues that could arise from this. They asked you to respond from a Christian Worldview. You asked me how you should do that (being that you aren't really in that mindset). I told you to respond from a Worldly Worldview. This alleviated all concern.</li>
<li>You reluctantly lunched at 12:00, but then didn't return to school work until 1:35, per some redirection from the Administrator. :)</li>
<li>You did Spanish from 1:35 to 2:15.</li>
<li>We did a Science Lab from 2:30 to 3:30. It was awesomely successful for us like no other science lab in our past. You had to do some MAJOR writing and observations, and you killed it.</li>
<li>We went upstairs to get dinner cooking together (counts as Home Ec - 30 mins). Then we went outside to clean the dog pen, bring in garbage cans and sweep the patio before the rain came.</li>
<li>We resumed with Health from 4:15 to 5:00. You completed a chapter and chapter review. </li>
</ul>
<div>
Today I remembered how much I love being back to school with you. I feel like I barely see you in the summer because of our different activities. During the school year we have always been together so much more often every day. This year I feel like we spend even more time together than we have in the past few years. I love my desk across the room. I love visiting, talking to you, hearing your ideas and learning who you are and why. I love homeschooling. The flexibility and connection. Awesomeness. </div>
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Zeek's proudest moment of Lora today: Mom's not slacking with the rules. It feels so much more scheduled than before. </div>
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Lora's proudest moment of Zeek today: Standing up for himself and his beliefs. </div>
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Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-5255848355052366112019-09-05T07:42:00.004-05:002019-09-05T17:16:49.079-05:00Day Two - TLT 5h 20m<br />
<ul>
<li>We started Bible at 8:10, reading about Joseph's death and the way the Egyptian's Pharaoh enslaved the Israelites to keep them from overthrowing the Egyptians. We read about Moses's birth and rescuing, as well as how he grew to love God, hold on to His promises and stand loyal to God and his own people.</li>
<li>You started a Mr D Math Demo at 8:35. We were testing it out to see if you like it more than Bob Jones Algebra. You did not. We will stick with Bob Jones.</li>
<li>You did Cultural Geography from 9:00-9:40. It was still Bible heavy. I like that, but I don't suspect it will continue all year. I'm sorry you haven't really had that in enough of your classes the past couple of years for it to seem normal, good, or right to be learning. I hope this program helps you see how valuable it can be, as well as how to discern between man made doctrine and God's Truth. You would be learning the cultural and geographical concepts through one form of example or another. Why not God? Or more so, it is best that it is God.</li>
<li>You did Writing and Grammar from 9:45 to 10:40. It was lots of review about sentence punctuation. You got to do some workbook exercises and an online Quiz. The quiz made us aware of a review you needed on the predicate portion of sentence structure. We reviewed and reset the quiz. You retook it and did well. </li>
<li>You did fun, fast Spanish from 10:45 to 11:10. I love that your Spanish pronunciation and dialect is so on point. That was important to me when you started learning Spanish, since Kindergarden. Very glad to hear that you don't speak spanglish, what-so-ever.</li>
<li>You did Physical Science from 11:15 to 12:15 - watched the video. Decided you'd be best to skip videos and write down and study definitions and important info from text for tests on these days. Took test. Did well.</li>
<li>You did your intro to Health from 12:30 to 1:10. You shared some interesting observations about the material. I think it is healthy and solid material so far, but will be reading some of the first Unit before or after you do so I can keep an eye on it. </li>
<li>You finished your day out with a nice Art Lesson sometime in the night. (20mins)</li>
</ul>
<br />
Funny of the day:<br />
"Remember that one time when I was at piano practice and we saw the (C Family) and the boy was like, 'I can play Yankee Doodle really fast.' and he was like, 'lets have a competition of who can play it the fastest.' AND I SHUT HIS ASS DOWN!"<br />
<br />
Yay! Today we used the program more proficiently in way of our goals. As a result it took us much less time to complete. You kept your spirits up, and I even felt you getting happier and more hopeful as the day went on. I'm happy with the big difference we were able to make in just one day. Congrats!<br />
<br />
Lora's favorite part of the day: Experiencing lessons sped up with fast talking teachers.<br />
<br />
Forgot to ask Zeek his favorite part of the day.<br />
<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-88988327786949778482019-09-03T20:25:00.000-05:002019-09-05T10:12:06.261-05:00Day One - TLT (Total Learning Time) 9hFirst full day of school today. We did an intro last Friday to get a hand on what's to come.<br />
<br />
So far, you got up at about 7:10am. Ate. We started a few minutes late because I was adding info to the outside of your binders and hanging some file dividers for them. No biggie.<br />
<ul>
<li>We did Bible first. Read about Joseph reuniting with his family in Egypt. 8:20-8:50<br />We had some technical difficulties with your laptop (prob because I used it all weekend to play Sims)</li>
<li>Then you started Algebra at 9. You finished at 11:30 (it was not because of you). We will make further evaluations as the week goes on. When you were half way through you said, "Father is going to be happy when he asks me what I did in school today. I actually just LEARNED something." You sounded pleased with the lesson - though you later wanted to talk about how long it was. (I feel that those thoughts were planted because the teacher says more than once in the intro that if it takes your student such-and-such time, it might be too hard for them. I don't appreciate those limiting statements and will discard them.<br />I was especially impressed with and proud of your note taking skills! I can see the work paying off from last year. </li>
<li>We had lunch from 11:30 to 12:30. </li>
<li>You did Cultural Geography from 12:30 to 1:30. It was amazing. I learned cool things myself. </li>
<li>You did Writing and Grammar from 1:40 to 2:15. A nice 35 minute class for today. </li>
<li>Science was a trial today. From 2:30 to 4:30 You spent about an hour doing it, but we had about an hour of talk and a verbal retest at the end. The video portion of the lesson was boring and unnecessary and the questions at the end of the reading were more "Biblical based" than "Science". You did not agree with that, and you got a B- for having one of five questions incorrect. I know you were feeling disappointed and tired nearing the end of the day. Hang in there. We are just testing and checking all of this out. You did well in Science. Keep a Growth Mindset as best you can. </li>
<li>Spanish was from 4:30 to 5:10 and it was SO cute and fun. </li>
</ul>
Over all you impressed me today. I loved looking over at you in your pink polo shirt with that hair - OH THAT HAIR! - looking like you have a private stylist who comes in for you, working hard and diligently on your course work. Your highlighting information, rearranging things to suit your needs and preferences, and even putting socks on your cat's back all made me quite full today. Great work on your first day. I know it took longer than we want it to, but we are in control and we can make adjustments as needed. Our goal isn't to "complete the program", but to learn solid, steady, and in progression. I know we can accomplish that in less time. We just need to look at what they program offers in full, and then adjust it as we see fit.<br />
<br />
Zeek's least favorite part of day: Science<br />
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Lora's least favorite part of day: When Zeek felt so disappointed in getting a B- and nothing I could say would make him realize that's a good grade, or feel better.<br />
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Zeek's favorite part of day: Math<br />
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Lora's favorite part of day: Zeek and Cultural Geography<br />
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-35193709776656244322018-10-22T05:05:00.001-05:002018-10-22T05:12:35.194-05:00You Are Kind and Honoring <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This weekend we had a Tween Hangout Event at Nina's. You are always growing, inside and out - Always amazing me with the ways you've grown. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For one, your kindness. The way you treat others, the way you give them a chance, the way your have learned to extend yourself to people so they understand they are important. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As 1 Corinthians 12:10-14 says, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit. Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am grateful that you know this. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am also grateful that you have become more comfortable with yourself. I can tell that the more accepting, comfortable and gracious you have become of your own strengths, weaknesses, rightness and flaws, the more accepting, comfortable and gracious you have become with others. I love watching you more deeply know and stand firm in God's beautiful plan and who we truly are in that plan, as His people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was especially honored to watch your transformation with young children shine at the end of the night. Nina's younger kids returned home when it was just you, Lincoln and Noah left from the Tween Group. You treated her younger kids with so much kindness! I saw and heard as you looked them in the eyes, got down on their level (even sitting on the floor face to face with the youngest at one point), and spoke in a kind, fun-loving, and compassionate way. I watched you pretend that the middle daughter was holding her own when she asked to arm wrestle you. I saw as you dropped your arm to the table in defeat and gave her credit when you could have easily beaten her. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">You GET it!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And Romans 14:19 says, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I saw God's influence all over your face and in your actions, and as a result HE was glorified above all. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourself." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Philippians 2:3</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Philippians 2:4 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honor one another."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Romans 12:10</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love seeing that God's Word is living in you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am proud of the young man you are. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">God Bless you, Ezekiel. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Love, Mom</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-9354433604208864002017-09-01T08:47:00.002-05:002017-09-01T08:47:15.240-05:00BracesYou got braces bro.<br />
<br />And I felt like I took a little Jim Carey (a hilarious actor with a larger-than-life character) to the orthodontist.<br />
I know you better than anyone else, but honestly, this new part of you is a complete mystery to me.<br />
<br />
You were the life of the party. There was so much to it that I don't even know what to write. You made everyone's day. Even the head Orthodontist thanked you and told you that you were the funnest and most entertaining person they've ever put braces on. All the hygienists in the room were nodding their heads and smiling.<br />
<br />WHO ARE YOU?<br />
<br />
The event was as unusual and new as anything else has been this summer with you. You're so different than you used to be. I've said it 100 times - no one knows what did it.<br />
<br />
Was it the move? Nothing changed socially for you here. It's not like we moved and then a new friend or friends were introduced into your life that changed you over.<br />
<br />
Was it skating? Because I know that changes people. But you started to change when we moved, which was the very point we stopped skating for the summer.<br />
<br />
Was it puberty? Hormones? Testosterone? Could that change your personality, character, and ways this drastically, this quickly? Maybe.<br />
<br />
I honestly don't know what happened except that you are completely different.<br />
<br />Before this summer and since you were 3.5 years old, it's was if your whole self was wrapped up, bound behind your arms, hands over your face clamping your lips closed. You were loathsome and brooding. Self deprecating and opposed. When you spoke your words came from a broken, downtrodden heart. Your perspectives were pessimistic at best. You seemed scared and wounded, skeptical and leery, bossy and set in your ways. You expressly hated yourself and often wondered and asked what was your purpose.<br />
We'll call them your "dark days".<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong Ezekiel, you also have amazing qualities. We have always enjoyed who you are and adored watching it all unfold before our eyes. You are wise beyond your years. Solid. No one and nothing can budge you an inch unless you say so. You are safe and sound. Honest and true. I have never worried about you jumping off of things, getting yourself into a spot you'd rather not be in, being taken advantage of, or doing stupid things. I have always known exactly who you are and what you are about. You are a unique and special blend, for sure.<br />
<br />
But since we've moved to Blueberry Lane you have made a huge transformation away from your dark days and into the light.<br />
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You are open. You haven't abandoned the good head on your shoulders. But your arms are wide spread out in front of you and you are ready for life. You are fun and funny - cuddlier than ever. Your self esteem has balanced and you are uninhibited, unapologetic, and unburdened. It's like you woke up one day and realized there is a blank canvas before you, along with every color imaginable, and all the tools to make it into whatever you want, and you are finally painting. Wild and free.<br />
<br />Best of all, you love and appreciate yourself. And this has given me a joy I can't describe. After years of watching my sweet boy bite and hit himself, pull his own hair, and say terrible untrue things in attempts to devalued how precious and valuable God made you... after going down "into the well" with you time and time again, seeing first hand how much of you was being stollen and jailed by the lie that you were not enough... I can't express how it lifts my soul to see you free from all of that.<br />
<br />
You look everyone in the eyes now. You smile and entertain. You talk. Oh how you talk! You are definitely your mother's child. You will talk anyone's ear off. It's like you've been bottled up inside for 11 years and someone just took the lid off. And fed you a thousand quarters.<br />
<br />
I delight in the fact that I will now have to teach you proper conversation etiquette. Something I've NEVER even considered in the past because it was not relevant.<br />
<br />
My Mom warned me to be sure I don't stifle this new part of you by teaching you how. But my sweet Mom lives too far away to have had the privilege of loosing an ear to your lips quite yet.<br />
<br />
I remember how many years I spent and am still spending, unlearning old bad conversational habits.<br />
<br />
Just as a parent should teach their child how to eat at the table, open doors for others, wait their turn in line, dress appropriately for the occasion, and all other manners of socially acceptable behavior, we will teach you how to have conversation.<br />
<br />
Until now you have not had the platform for the experience of the lessons to come. And as awesome and encouraging as it is to watch, at times, your conversations roll as if you are brushing your hair with your dinner fork or butting past everyone in line at the Walmart check out!<br />
<br />It won't be long and you'll be using all this new found interest in others, charm and entertainment value to love on all of God's people in a way I have only dreamed of for you. And there is not anything in this life more wonderful or more fulfilling than that!<br />
<br />
Like I say, I don't know what happened that this change has come about, but I'm so happy for you, love.<br />
<br />
No matter the "likes", subscribers, friendships and popularity this world offers you, no matter how sparkly, enticing, or sought after you become, your value comes <i>only</i> from God - the One who created you, made a Way for you, and loves you unconditionally for always. That is exactly who allowed this change in you, and that is exactly who will see you through it for His perfect purpose.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to watch!<br />
<br />
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<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-5614136132763173232017-09-01T07:39:00.005-05:002017-09-01T07:39:48.710-05:00Seventh Grade<span style="font-family: inherit;">The summer is coming to an end. No leaves have turned yet, but the entire atmosphere is working hard towards it. I can feel it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We're about to roll into full fledged school mode again. After three months of moving and renovating, this is a welcomed norm. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's certainly the first year I've ever been so cool and collected about our start. I'm usually planned beyond reality (and well beyond what is being feasible for any human schedule) with every piece of curriculum purchased, in house, and well absorbed by mid-August. I usually have each day scheduled, a list of hours, supplemental material all picked out, and Pinterest boards overflowing. Some years I've even written my own full syllabus for each class and then some! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But since this move I've become less... me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There's this general <i>go with the flow </i>approach. Less planned and scheduled for - more taking it all in stride. One day at a time. I feel like I spent the last 30 years proving that there is no benefit to taking charge, stumping down or running ahead. This is like my "New Testament". And I'm loving it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So your school is unplanned. NOT unschooled. Unschooling is not for our family. But we will walk forward without urgency, not pretending we're super human and are going to be able to cram ourselves into unrealistic boxes of my own expectations. In fact, I my only expectation is progression and a more well rounded love and enjoyment for learning. That is it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So to Seventh Grade, here we come. Minds willing, eyes open, hearts forward. Let the games begin! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-8756775607776116002017-06-02T05:09:00.001-05:002017-06-02T05:09:37.986-05:00A "Normal" Family HouseHello my little love.<br />
<br />
We're in the new house, three days. It's amazing.<br />
<br />
Of all the fun you have been my favorite part - you're so happy here.<br />
<br />
You love the house. You're brimming with excitement over it. You tell me every time we're together how cute and nice and good it is.<br />
<br />
The first day you talked about how you like that it makes us like a "normal" family - "like the the ones on TV shows".<br />
<br />I never really thought about it before, but you have grown up so far in an unusual, beautiful, gigantic house of glass, with incredible views, so much privacy, all about architecture and a specific style of decor that isn't super common around here... while your new Blueberry Home is very "normal" to what you've seen in other people's houses and on TV - the Goldbergs, the Cosbys, Liv and Maddie, Good Luck Charlie...<br />
<br />
I was in the garage (looking for something in the sea of our belongings piled high) when it dawned on me that we have always given you so much (just because we like to) and yet you are still like we were as kids, enjoying something less. This house is the complete opposite of tidy, organized, or even ready to live in. Yet it's all an adventure to you. It's as if you don't even see the crazy. And trust me, it's <i>crazy</i> right now! Like, boxes full and empty, blocking hallways and entire rooms, furniture strewn, freshly ripped out walls and floors with MANY electrical wires hanging from the ceiling. We don't know where any of our stuff is. We barely have any food. I honestly don't even know how to get to certain places in the house without really thinking it through first. HA!<br />
<br />
I remember going to my neighbors house and loving how simple it was there. Stepping back from technology and up-to-date luxuries. They were grandparents, and they had an old piano in their dining room, a "sitting room" like a parlor, and one of those wash basin bowls with a pitcher. I thought the stark difference from my parent's home was SO cool.<br />
<br />
You really appreciate and love this new house. For you the value comes in something entirely different than the things most grownups believe holds value. It's nice to see that innocent joy and contentment in you.<br />
<br />
You told me that you really like what we've all planned to do to make changes to this house, but at the same time you are a little sad to see this go. Us too! We unexpectedly feel the same exact way.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, you and your Dad were out in the screen room at the dining room table (which is where it is because of all of yesterday's demolition). I could hear the two of you just talking and laughing - looking out at the beautiful back yard together. It made me so happy and proud to be here. I can't wait to see what our "normal" life is like when things come together here. In the meanwhile, I am sure enjoying the ride! :)<br />
<br />
Love you, baby.<br />
<br />Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2805151294517984338.post-65584235116436649852017-05-28T05:01:00.002-05:002017-05-28T05:11:13.477-05:00Detachment <span style="font-family: inherit;">It's crazy to me that we are just a few days away from moving. I feel like I've been packing our house for for a month - because I have been, really. "Slow and steady wins the race". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I'm sorry to say we finished 6th grade rather uneventfully. If you can call giving away and selling half of our belongings while we crammed 7 extra days worth of classes into the past three weeks, uneventful. We did reach our goal to be done early so we can focus on the season at hand... saying good-bye to Partridge Lane. And we did go for our traditional last-day-of-school ice cream. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that our agreements have been scheduled for the moving and cleaning, our orders are placed for a new kitchen, flooring and your new bed and bedding, our existing stuff is mostly boxed, the dogs and cat are all riled up, and we are ready to go, it's time to slow down even a bit more. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's time to take this all in and thank God. It's time to look around a last time or two and get ready to let go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I read this beautiful post about the Moment of Detachment this morning:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"The hour of this new day is clearly defined to the dandelion globe; it is marked by detachment. There is no sense of wrenching; it stands ready, holding up its little life, not knowing when or where or how the wind that blows where it will may carry it away. It holds itself no longer for its own keeping, only as something to be given; a breath does the rest..."</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SMsnKYMobhxP0fHQuA8FY3DC6IzxtqTpNZc0GNg38Qd0ZkAIyUv53FPR-rcJY1vIfGidk76nGTwp6usqUK6QIjSiiqL9Rqd-o-tLLyVPGu_79PD_V81P3qYmF5iq-ZzTCM_PRnFrEGQ/s1600/dandysunset4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="820" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SMsnKYMobhxP0fHQuA8FY3DC6IzxtqTpNZc0GNg38Qd0ZkAIyUv53FPR-rcJY1vIfGidk76nGTwp6usqUK6QIjSiiqL9Rqd-o-tLLyVPGu_79PD_V81P3qYmF5iq-ZzTCM_PRnFrEGQ/s640/dandysunset4.jpg" width="536" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm letting go - detaching - from the owl's and the morning birds' melody on the silence I've learned to rest in. Detaching from the sights and smells I've come to understand and thrive in these past years. From the woods. From the space. From being left alone. From forgetting about all the people and imagining we're it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm letting go and letting God guide us to whatever He desires for us. I'm looking forward to detaching from this place, these years, this story, what lay ahead here for us, and what didn't. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not quite to the readiness of grabbing on to anything else. I'm not sure if or when that will be my position at all. But I am sure we are setting sail on the wind. Making a journey to be planted again, someplace now and different - someplace away. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can. not. wait. </span><br />
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Lora Mariahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11796485753509093032noreply@blogger.com0