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Friday, January 29, 2010

Fit Mommy Friday: Week 4

STOP!!! I'd really like it if you'd take the poll in my sidebar, if you haven't already. (Scroll down.) Also, from my sidebar, you can follow me on Twitter and become a Facebook Fan.


NEW!!! You can now subscribe to my blog via e-mail!!! Yes, that's right, just type in your e-mail address in the sidebar and get my posts delivered right to your inbox! I know it's what you always dreamed of, right??? LOL




Okay, so I skipped out on week three.  I admit it, I failed.  Miserably. 

So here we are again.  I do have to mention that I did actually take Annie Kate up on the challenge to do eight minutes.  Right after she challenged me I set my microwave timer for eight minutes and began to exercise.  Funny thing, I didn't hear it go off, and it was probably at least ten minutes before I realized it seemed like it had been a while.  I went to the kitchen to find it flashing "end."  Way to go, me!  Too bad it was an isolated incident.

That was the last of my exercise with the exception of one evening when I remembered my goals and did a whopping ten jumping jacks.  I'm a real exercise junkie, ain't I?

Okay, something must change here.  I promised to "try" last time.  This time I think I need to promise to actually DO something.  The problem is, I am always just so focused on everything else I do around here.  I do have eight children, a husband, a house, etc.  Yeah, yeah, I know, all the more reason to get and stay in shape.
 
So, this is what I'm going to do.  I am going to add exercise to my list of things to do each day.  I give the kids a list each day, and I used to make myself one.  I need to do that again.  I'm sick right now, but I'll start Monday.  KEEP ON ME ABOUT THIS!!! 
Now, it probably won't be much.  Maybe a few jumping jacks or lifting some light weights.  Whatever it is, it has to be better than nothing, which is pretty much what I do now.  I just keep getting fatter and out of shape, and if I don't do something soon, I'll be too fat and out of shape to do anything!

So, here it is:  I PROMISE to do more this week.  Do you hear me.  I PROMISE!!!  So, keep on me.  Bug me.  Threaten me.  Bribe me with chocolate.  Well, maybe not, that would work, but it would be a bit counter-productive!  LOL

Anyway, I'll see you all next Friday.  I WILL be reporting some progress!

Click HERE to see how everyone else did this week!!!

Five Question Friday ~ January 29, 2010

STOP!!!  I'd really like it if you'd take the poll in my sidebar, if you haven't already.  (Scroll down.)  Also, from my sidebar, you can follow me on Twitter and become a Facebook Fan. 

NEW!!!  You can now subscribe to my blog via e-mail!!!  Yes, that's right, just type in your e-mail address in the sidebar and get my posts delivered right to your inbox!  I know it's what you always dreamed of, right???  LOL 

Now, back to my regularly scheduled blog...

Here's another edition of Five Question Friday.  To participate or read more Five Question Friday entries, check out
My Little Life

Things went strange on me as I posted my 5QF on my other blog, so I didn't dare try to transfer it over here.  Instead, I'll just give you the link and ask you to forgive some formatting weirdness. 

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse/752870/

Thanks!!!

Thursday, January 28, 2010

New Review!!! Keyboarding for the Christian School

STOP!!!  Before you read this post, would you please take the poll in my sidebar?  (Scroll down.)  Also, I'd love it if you'd follow me on Twitter or become a Facebook Fan!  Thanks!




"Filling Your Student's Mind with God's Word Using Typing Skills"


Keyboarding for the Christian School e-bookAbout the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received a free download of Keyboarding for the Christian School so that I could use it in my home and let you know what I think!  :)

This is a basic typing program developed for Christian schools, but it can easily be used in your homeschool.  The program is designed for grades 6 and up, and also includes instruction for things like: MLA reports, APA reports, cover pages, personal and business letters, envelopes, and more.  Instructions on how to set up your page in Word are also included.

Elementary Version E-Book
There is also a version of this book for younger kids, called Keyboarding for Christian Schools: Elementary Version.  Miss Mable, that cute little lady bug, helps kids from K-5 learn the basics of keyboarding.  (The information on MLA reports, letters, etc. is not included in the elementary version. 

Both versions use the same touch typing/drill method that most of us learned way back in the day.  At least that's the way I learned.
 
These books comes in e-book format.  View sample pages here.

What are the pros of this product?   Obviously, for the Christian, the fact that there are Biblical references is a plus.  Since the word of God never comes back void, this is a great way to fill your child's mind with the things of God.
 
Also, your child will learn to type off a paper on the desk, instead of off the screen.  (This might also be a great time to pull out your StudyPod.)  I know that I can type very quickly when I am typing "out of my head," but when I am trying to type off a paper, I slow down considerably because I'm just not used to it.  I think it is an advantage to learn this way so that you child will be used to looking away from the keyboard as he or she types. 

The e-book format is also good because you can simply print out the page you are using.  No need to print out the whole book.  It also makes it more economical.  Normally, I'm not thrilled with the whole e-book thing, but this is one exception. 

What's not to like?  The program is not nearly as fun as the software programs made for kids.  There are advantages to learning both ways, but I don't see why you couldn't start out with this program, and then let your child use a more "fun" program to practice with once he or she has mastered the basics.  You might even consider buying a software program as a "reward" for finishing this program.  Why not?  :)

The Crazy Mom take:  I actually got a copy of both programs, but I had trouble opening the elementary version. (I don't think it was a problem with the program, I think it was my computer.)  Anyway, I decided to just go ahead and review the program for grades 6 and up.  Since Princess is usually a good sport about being my guinea pig, I decided she could do a few of the lessons to see what she though about it.
 
Most of my kids, Princess included, have used the software programs to learn to type.  However, I have to confess, I have not been consistent in making them use the programs, and, other than my three oldest, none of my children are great typists.  Still, Princess, having used the software in the past, was not really thrilled to use this program.  I have to say, I was a bit disappointed by this.  As I said above, I think it is important to learn to type off of a paper.  Also, sometimes I think it's just good for kids to know that not everything is fun and games.  Plus, the games do not have them typing out scripture.

Since I was only having Princess use the program for review purposes, I had her do several lessons, but am not requiring her to continue at this time.  I will be keeping the program, however, to use with the younger kids.  Also, I think I will have Princess skip ahead to the parts of the book that show how to do things like business letters, and cover pages.  Those fun typing programs might teach kids to type, but they don't teach them how to use Word (or use the Word!)

So, all in all, I like the program.  I think it has great value.  For those of you who haven't had your kids using a software program, I would highly recommend using this program first.  I can't say I regret using the other programs with my older kids, as they did learn to type, but there is just a little part of me that has realized that sometimes you just need to let your kids learn that sometimes things are more "work" than "fun."  While I think school needs to be fun a lot of the time, our kids have to learn that life isn't always just fun and games.  Sometimes it's good for them to get a little taste of "old school."  This would be a great way for them to get used to a little of that old-fashioned hard work and discipline.  We could all use a little more of that!  (Or in my case a LOT!)
Anyway, I like it.  You'll just have to check it out for yourself! :)


What's the bottom line? $15.95 for the upper level/  $12.95 for the elementary version

I am adding this info directly from the website:

Need a Coupon to start the year right?  Type NewYear5 in the Discount Code section for $5 off of your purchase of $12.95 or more available until February 28, 2010!



2010 NEW YEAR SPECIAL:  Purchase both the Keyboarding for the Christian School, Revised Edition and the Elementary Edition for only $22!  Yes, this is a big savings!  So, purchase your e-books now for only $22 for both typing books!



I am going to give Keyboarding for the Christian School 3 out of 5 smileys!!!*

Check it out! https://www.christiankeyboarding.com/


See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/758784/   



*The Smiley System:
 
I can't really recommend this product.
 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.
 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.
 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.
 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!
Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Wow! Earn Bonus Box Tops for Education and enter to win a $25 Kroger Gift Card!!!

STOP!!!  Please take a minute to take the poll in my sidebar.  (You'll need to scroll down.)  Also, if you don't want to miss any of my posts or contests, why not become a Facebook Fan?  (You can do that from the sidebar too.)  You'll be alerted every time I post!  Thanks!!!




Do you clip and save the Box Tops for Education coupons?  I do.  I collect them for our co-op.  Yes, even homeschool co-ops can take advantage of this excellent program.  We recently got a rather nice check from this program, and it was as simple as clipping those little labels and turning them in.  What could be simpler?




Actually, if you shop at Kroger, there is an even simpler way to earn Bonus Box Tops!  I just registered  at


chose my co-op, and 5 Bonus Boxtops were added to our account.  Easy peasy! Then I was given a chance to select three personalized offers I would like to receive.*  The really cool part is that when I chose the offers, I just entered my Kroger card number, and they were automatically uploaded to my card.  How cool is that?  Now, when I go to the store and make my purchases, the Bonus Box Tops will be automatically added to my co-op's account!  Of course, I can still cut out the Box Tops from the products and turn them in the way I always do.  General Mills even gave me a $25 gift card to help me out a bit with my grocery bill. 





So, are you jealous?  LOL  Don't be.  You can get your school or co-op 5 Bonus Box Tops just for signing up too.  


Then you can choose the offers you want and have them uploaded to your card, just like I did.  But, I know what you'd really like is a $25 Kroger gift card.  Okay, I'll make a deal with you.  If you'll just leave a comment below telling me whether or not you clip and save Box Tops, and if so, what for, I'll enter you to win your very own $25 gift card.  Isn't that cool?  General Mills, through MyBlogSpark, is letting me give away one gift card to one of my readers.  Just make sure you leave a way for me to contact you.  I'll need either a blog address or an e-mail address.  This contest will end at 11:59 Eastern time on February 5, 2010.  You must be 18 or older to enter. 

******************************************** 

 * Here are the offers I chose from:

Get 3, 4, or 5 Bonus Box Tops when you buy the corresponding amount of participating General Mills Cereals


Participating cereals include Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs, Cookie Crisp Sprinkles, Trix, Reese´s Puffs, Cookie Crisp, Golden Grahams, Kix, Fruity Cheerios, Dora the Explorer, Honey Kix, and all varieties of Cascadian Farm

Get 3, 4, or 5 Bonus Box Tops when you buy the corresponding amount of participating Yoplait Kid products

Participating products include Yoplait Kids Yogurt Drink, Yoplait Go-GURT, Yoplait Kids Lowfat Yogurt, and Yoplait Trix Lowfat Yogurt

Get 3, 4, or 5 Bonus Box Tops when you buy the corresponding amount of participating Pillsbury products

Participating products include 8 ct. packages of all varieties of Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits, Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, Pillsbury Flaky Twists, and Pillsbury Sweet Rolls

Note: General Mills provided me with the gift card, information, and giveaway through MyBlogSpark.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

The "S" Word: Socialization

What are people really asking when they ask you, "What about socialization?" My theory is that that are just concerned that your kids are holed up in your house all day, hitting the books, pale from lack of sun, friendless, and out of shape from their lack of recess and gym class.

OK, that might be true...

I mean, school is where you find friends, and have access to clubs, band, organized sports, and all kinds of things. Right? The reality is, back in the day, it might have been very much like that. My brother's kids were homeschooled in the 80's. They still talk about the time a neighbor called the police on them and a truant officer came to the house and all the girls ran and hid in the shower. They really were a bit isolated; they had to be. You couldn't just tell the cashier at Wally World that you homeschooled. She might just call the cops. And you sure didn't take them out with you!

All these years later, it's a whole new world. Now when I mention that I homeschool to the cashier, she always seems to have a sister, friend, or neighbor that also homeschools. Most often they tell me they think it's great, and they seldom pop the socialization question. I think the whole attitude towards homeschooling has changed.

First of all, few homeschoolers are holed up all day. It seems that lots of folks have realized what a gold mine we homeschoolers are. At least where I live, lots of places now have homeschool classes, homeschool hours, etc. My kids can go bowling for a dollar a game, go iceskating, hit the batter's cages, or play soccer, all during school hours and often at reduced or group rates. These places are thrilled to accommodate us during hours which used to be very unprofitable to them. Call the cops? No. Market to us? Yes! My kids have all participated in several homeschool gym classes and other sports programs. They've also done community sports. They're still pale, but that's just genetics. LOL

The most music I ever had in school was sitting around at my desk singing old songs out of a book. Not that thrilling. It sure didn't help teach me to carry a tune, though I still know all the words to "Sixteen Miles on the Erie Canal." Music lessons have always been readily available to kids outside of school, so I don't think anyone ever worried about homeschooling kids missing out on music. Once a kid can play, what's to stop them from playing with a band or orchestra? What do you know? That would be socialization. As a matter-of-fact, my son is going to be playing for the youth band this week at church for the first time. (Go Ren!)

So what about clubs? No, you don't need school to have clubs. I mean, there have always been Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. We've never done those, but my girls were in an American Girls club, and my boys in a boys club. A couple of my kids also are in the Teen Book Club at the library. They also go to movies there, paint the windows, do crafts, and even get books out. Two of my kids also volunteer on the Teen Advisory Board. Oh, you can take on leadership roles as a homeschooler, too? You don't need student government? I guess so. My son was the Advisory Board president, and my daughter is currently vice president. Many of the kids who volunteer at the library are homeschoolers.

But what about plain old "classroom" etiquette, learning to keep deadlines, or working in groups. That's where co-ops come in. Our co-op is great and my kids really enjoy it. They are all familiar with the classroom experience. They can raise their hands and take tests with the best of them. They even make friends. (Not that they haven't done this in Sunday school all along.)

I think the real problem nowadays is way too much socialization. I mean, I am running these kids all over town. Sundays we're at church in the morning, and a couple of kids are in a discipleship class there in the evening. Tuesday morning is co-op, and Tuesday afternoon is Grandma's. Tuesday evening my son is at band practice. On Wednesday we are all at church again, and once a month on Thursday is the book club. Friday the girls take a sewing class in the afternoon, and the boys and I visit a friend and her boys, while our girls sew. Saturday is often a board meeting or some other event. In between are other library programs, other church events, other just hanging out times, and on and on it goes. Oh, I forgot Monday night bowling. Oh, and Saturday night Bible study and skateboarding. And never, never forget about Facebook! LOL

I'm getting tired just thinking about it!

But like I said, not too many people really ask me much about socialization anymore, but if they do, I think I have an answer and here it is:

What about socialization? It is a problem, I admit. We are really going to have to think about cutting back. It's starting to really cut into our school time! :)
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This post was written as part of a "Blog Cruise" from our TOS Homeschool Crew.  Several of us "crew mates" wrote on the same topic.  If you would like to read the other posts, click here.  While you're there, you might just want to become a fan of the TOS Homeschool Crew's page.  You'll find lots of good stuff there!  :)


Friday, January 22, 2010

Book Review!!! Cherry the Cello

Won't you please take the poll in my sidebar?  (Scroll down.)




Cherry the Cello

by:  Jane Vos

$8.00 (includes shipping)
Published by:  IX Publishing

Cherry the Cello is a short and sweet little book for young children about a little six-year-old girl who learns to play the cello.  It's based on the true story of Jane's daughter, Promise, and of, course, her cello Cherry.

Though short, this book might just inspire your young child to want to play an instrument.  In the back of the book you can read a little from Promise, who is now (almost) all grown up, and from her mom, Jane, the author.  It seems Promise grew up in a very musical family.
I like Cherry the Cello.  You might too!  :)

To check it out, just visit here or e-mail jane.vos@gmail.com.

Happy Reading!

~Crazy Mom
Here's another edition of Five Question Friday.  To participate or read more Five Question Friday entries, check out


My Little Life

1. What is better, growing old with out money or dying young and wealthy?

Money.  What is money?  Of course, I'd rather live a long life.

 

2. Who takes out the garbage at your house?

Ren and Mr. Personality take it out, though we actually forgot all about this past week.  Not a problem for most families, but by the end of the week all six or seven cans are full and there are bags piled on top.  Add a second week's trash to that and my yard looks like a landfill.  Then we have a dog... 

Why did you have to ask that THIS week???

(Oh, and Dode Man wants you to know that he is the one who takes the trash out of the house, the older boys take it out to the curb.)


3. Have you ever had the same dream many times?


Oh, I was just telling someone this.  When I'm sleeping and really, really have to go pee, I always dream of having to pee in my dream and then having to search out a bathroom.  Usually I'm in a large building with lots of halls and doors.  I search and search.  When I finally find a bathroom, all the toilets are filthy and overflowing.  I search some more, finding nothing but nasty toilets.  Sometimes I actually break down and try to use one of the nasty bathrooms.  In my dream, I pee and pee, but am never relieved.  I guess that's good, or I'd wet the bed!  LOL


 
4. Can you play a musical instrument?

I have  very basic knowledge of both piano and guitar.  I took organ lessons as a child and taught myself the little guitar I know.  I hope to keep using the Jean Welles Worship Guitar program I got to review to help me learn to play the better.  I also might take a keyboard class at church.


5. If you owned your own store, what would you sell?

I have no desire to own a store, though my parents did own a party store at one time. Actually, if it weren't for me, they still might. As the story goes, they sold it when my mom got pregnant with me.

But, if I did own a store it would probably have to be either books or techie stuff.  If I went the techie route, my kids could work for me.  I guess by techie stuff I mean phones, computer stuff, and the like.  Boring, huh?



New Book Review!!! Wright on Time: Arizona

It would so totally rock if you'd check out my poll in the sidebar (scroll down) and then vote!  :)


wot1_cover
ISBN: 0-9824829-0-6

ISBN-13: 978-0-9824829-0-2

LCCN: 2009928001

100 pages, 5.25" x 8", paperback

Children's Chapter Book, Ages 5-12+


Hmm...  A homeschooling family that travels around the country in an RV?  Interesting!  Well, I should know, I've traveled around the country with my family in an RV many times.  And, yes, most of the time we make it educational.  Let's see, we've been to New York City, Los Angeles, Mt. Rushmore, The Grand Canyon,Washington D.C., and, oh, this post is supposed to be a book review.  Sorry!  LOL

The Wright on Time books follow the adventures of Aidan, 7, his sister Nadia, 11, as they and their parents travel from state to state, homeschooling as they go.  Each book takes place in a different state, so the entire series consist of 50 books!  Well, it will anyway.  As of this writing only two books have been published.  I was sent the first book, Wright on Time: Arizona, so that I could read it and give you my opinion.  The second book, Wright on Time: Utah, has also been published.  Several more are in the works.

The family explores a cave in Wright on Time: Arizona.  Aidan is fascinated by the bats, while Nadia hopes to find some unique gemstones.   As you read along, you are not just enjoying a story, you are learning right along with the family.  I think it's a great idea, and I think it's great that the books show homeschoolers in such a positive light.

There were a few things that I would have liked to have seen different.  First, the parents in the book are referred to by their first names.  Call me old-fashioned, but I still prefer that my kids call adults by Mr. and Mrs. 

Second, and here I go sounding like an old lady again, but I do not like the phrases Aidan uses throughout book.  He was always saying, "Freaky cool!" and "Freaky awesome!"  I know, I know, it's like saying "freaky" and "awesome" only together, but every time I read it, I thought of the way people always use the word "freakin'", which I hate, and, well, it just bugged me!  LOL  (Just a heads up in case you are an old fogey like me!")

Third, they left me hanging!  I mean, really!  They found this mysterious thing in the cave and I wanted to know what it was, and now I have to read the second book!  Tricky, I tell, you, tricky!   (The author says you can read the books out of order, but if they do this in all the books, I'd suggest reading them in the order they are written.)

So, what is my final take?  Well, first names and freaky aside, I still liked the book.  I mean, it was a fun, quick, read, and a great way to sneak in some learnin'. :)
 
Or you could just go across the country in an RV! 

~Crazy Mom

PS.  Did you notice anything about the kids' names?  I didn't until a few chapters in.  :)




Thursday, January 21, 2010

It's Not Just Me!!!

I'd be totally thrilled if you'd take a minute and take the poll in my sidebar.  (Scroll down.)

So, I'm at co-op Tuesday, and I notice one of the kids has this really nice, organized binder.  It's one of those "clear view" types and it was so nicely labeled, with clip art to boot, so I asked my friend, who shall remain nameless, if that was her son's binder.  When she answered in the affirmative, I complimented her on how impressive it was, and, of course, found myself feeling inferior.

Until...

I noticed something white poking out of it.  It looked sorta soft and worn.

So, with much fear and trepidation I slowly opened the nice, organized binder.  And found a dirty sock!  LOL

I couldn't help cracking up.  Is was so me!  Or, should I say my kids?  I mean, I once found a pair of dirty socks in the waffle iron.  (Now I can't even find the waffle iron!) 

So it was with great glee that I pointed out this dirty sock to my friend.  It really was too funny.  So, of course, my first question was, "Can I blog about this?"

So, yes, she gave me permission, and so here it is.
 
I suppose I don't have to be the ONLY one to have these moments, do I?
 
So the moral of this story is:  If you are in my co-op, be afraid, be very afraid, I might be watching you...



Wednesday, January 20, 2010

True Confessions: We're Cereal People. :)

I admit it, I'm not the kind of mom who rises early and cooks a big breakfast every morning for the family. Truth be told, I rarely do. With eight kids, it just takes way too long. Occasionally the kids will get up and make pancakes, or eggs and sausage, but many times we eat cereal.

Of course, my kids love the sweet stuff, and I admit sometimes feeling a tad guilty.  That's why I was glad to learn that General Mills has made a "commitment to further reduce sugar in cereals advertised to kids under 12 to single digit grams of sugar per serving."  With breakfast being so important, I'm just glad to have something quick and easy to give them. 

Here are just a few facts I learned from the information I received from General Mills:

Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children´s diets.

Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child´s diet today.

More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.

As a participant in the MyBlogSpark program, I was sent coupons to try four boxes of cereal for free.  Of course that was a huge blessing to me!  I wish I could send you free cereal too, but I can't.  I can, however,  help you out at least a bit.  Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals.  

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

Just to be clear, as part of the MyBlogSpark program, I was sent coupons to try four boxes of cereal by General Mills.  I was also provided by MyBlogSpark and General Mills with information about cereal and a link for $1 off coupons to pass on to you.  I was not obligated to blog about the cereal because I got the coupons, and I also do not get compensated for blogging about General Mills.  I will be participating in the BlogSpark program where I will be trying new products.  If I like the products I might blog about them.  Often, I will also be provided with the opportunity to host giveaways on my blog of the products I try.

Sounds like fun, and maybe you'll even win something!  :)



Monday, January 18, 2010

Not Me Monday ~ January 18, 2010





Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

This week two of our three vehicles did not take turns breaking down.  I'm sure glad of that.  I would hate that!

My husband, therefore, did not have to try to figure out what part to buy for my son's car, and thus, did not call me to ask for the Vehicle Identification Number.  I did not go down into out "Titles" file to find the title missing.  Therefore, I did not have to send my 10-year-old, Dode Man, out to First Born's Car to get his proof of insurance.  Dode Man did not then grab nasal spray, instead of the car key, and go out to get the paper.  He then did not get distracted and start playing with his sisters outside while I waited for him to come back so I could tell my husband, who was still on the phone, the number. 

I did not check outside to see what was taking so long, get upset, and then stomp off to my room to get my shoes on so I could go do it myself.  This is a good thing, because, I might have WHACKED MY POOR FINGERS, YES THE SAME ONES MY SONS DID NOT SMASH IN THE DRAWER TWO WEEKS AGO, on my bedroom door.  I did not scream like a maniac.  Again.  Boy, am I glad that did not happen, or my pinky might still be sore today.  AND, my husband might have hung up!

Then I did not realize that while there was nasal spray on my mantle, my son had taken both his keys to school.  I did not then search my purse for a second copy of the proof of insurance and come up empty handed. 

I also did not, later in the day, find copies of our insurance papers right on the bookshelf, and I certainly did not, while searching for something else, find a second copy of my son's proof of insurance in my purse yesterday at the grocery store. 

Boy, I'm so happy these kinds of things don't happen to me! 

Friday, January 15, 2010

Five Question Friday ~ January 15, 2010

Since you're here, would you please take my poll in the sidebar?
Thanks!!!


Here's another edition of Five Question Friday.  To participate or read more Five Question Friday entries, check out

http://www.fivecrookedhalos.blogspot.com/.

My Little Life
1. Worst trouble you ever got into as a teenager?

Uh, my mom reads this blog!  :)  There once was an incident where a friend and I hid a TV at my sister's friends house and they called the police to report it stolen.  We had to go up to the station and admit our prank!

2.
Are you a morning person or a night person?

Totally, totally a night owl.  I love to stay up until about 3:00 in the morning, and sleep until about 11:00.  I was like that as a teen, and my babies all seemed to like that schedule too.  I still go to bed late and get up late.  I actually think it weird when I go to bed and two lights are lit up on the alarm clock, meaning it's still P.M.  But lest you all think I'm lazy when I sleep until ten, know that I am up cleaning at 1:00 A.M. when you lazies have all been asleep for hours! 

3. Are you a one-handed or a two-handed Texter?

Two-handed, 'cause I only text my son, and I do it from my computer!
And NEVER, NEVER text while driving!!!

4.
Democrat, Republican, or Independent..or maybe even Green Party (whatever that is).

Christian.  Conservative.  Republican.  In that order. 
Though I do vote for the occasional Demorcrat.  Where I live, we have a lot of Dems that are conservative on social issues.  Won't vote for a pro-choice candidate of any party. 

5.
Are you a pet person?

Oh, my heaven's no!  I am not!  Stop the hate, but I'm just not!  Oh, the flames!  The flames!  I do like fish.  We had some for a while, but the anemone ate them all.  We do have a dog.  Not my cholce, though.  I am allergic to cats and dogs, but Sane Man, not being allergic, does not "get" that.

I feel bad about it, really.  Animal people are actually quite wonderful.  I suspect the prisons are filled with non-animal people.  I'm actually not a big kid person either, though I am a big kid!  I realize that sounds just terrible coming from a mother of eight, but I just was never the one who loved to babysit or work in the nursery.   Not that I don't like kids, I just like them once I get to know them.  (Or not.  LOL) I do hope that makes sense, and you don't think I am a rotten person!  I'm quite sure I'd love YOUR kids.  And your little dog too!


MckLinky Blog Hop

Fit Mommy Friday: Week 2


Okay, peeps, you want the good news first?  Or the bad news?

All right, the bad news is that it's nearly noon on Friday, and I have yet to exercise.  That's right, not for one minute.  Now Annie Kate challenged me huge to break my record and do eight, and I am really going to try to do that.  If I do, I will come back and update. 
Now technically I did to a teeny tiny bit of exercise.  Last Sunday the fam went sledding.  I hate cold, and thus, sledding is not my thing.  Well, I suppose I'd like it if it were, say 70 degrees or more out. 

Anyway, the place we went also has toboggan runs, and I was determined to go down once.  I did.  I was fun, I admit.  BUT!  Getting off the thing was a challenge in itself.  I have bad knees and it was not pretty.  Then I had to walk back UP that hill.

So I started up the hill, s l o w l y.  Yeah, I mean, I have asthma too.  You see, I've got LOTS of excuses for being so out of shape.  So it's taking me a while and Sane Man actually had to send out the dogs!  Well, he sent out one.  He had one of the kids take the dog to me so she could PULL me back up that hill.  He stood at the top and called to her so she would go up.  Now THAT, my friends, is pathetic. 

Oh, well.

BUT!!!  I do have some good news.  Earlier in the week I weighed in at 166.6.
Today I weighted 165.6.  You do the math.  Girlfriends, that is a WHOLE POUND!  Do you hear me?  A WHOLE POUND!!!

So, it's all good.  I have made a baby step towards my goal of hitting 140 sometime again in this lifetime (without getting some terminal disease.) 

So, yeah.

To participate or just read other Fit Mommy Friday posts, click here.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

My Cute Little Dude! :)

My 6-year-old son, Baber, came up to me the other day in all seriousness and said, "Mom, I must be losing weight.  I only weigh 500 pounds.  With my shoes on!

Monday, January 11, 2010

Not Me Monday









Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

Well, yesterday I was thinking about what I could write about this week.  Funny thing, I didn't NOT do anything totally air-headed this week!  I was actually a little disappointed by that!  LOL

Then I did not go to bed last night trying to think of something to write about.  I then did not wake up and put my glasses on to get my sons off for their first day of the winter semester of college.  I then did not get back up later only to find that I could not find my glasses.  No, I did not do that.

I do not lose my glasses.  I am near-sighted and have major astigmatism so I can't see very well without them.  I can't stand not having them on.  I put them on the moment I get up, and I take them off the last thing at night.  I never, never lose them.

My daughter loses her glasses.  She hasn't had them for a few weeks.  I just very self-righteously told her this past week that *I* never lose my glasses.  So, I mean, it makes sense that I did not lose mine.  Right?

And I'm not wearing an old pair that has some of the protective coating on it scratched off leaving a blurry spot right in front of my left eye.  I'm not.  That would be totally annoying. 

I'm so glad I'm not like my daughter.  Nope.  I am totally, totally together.  :)

And btw, I did NOT get named Blogger of the Week by Homeschool Blogger.  If I had, you might be able to read about it here. Too bad, because they might have even mentioned the Not Me Monday meme in the article. 

Friday, January 8, 2010

5 Question Friday: January 8, 2010

For whatever reason, I was not able to copy the post from my other blog here, so I'll just give you the link and let you go check it out yourself!

I know you are just DYING to know my fave comfort food and other exciting facts about me! LOL C'mon, check it out! :)

Fit Mommy Friday: First Check In!!!

Hey, did you see my poll in the sidebar? Please check it out!



Well, let's see. Not much to brag about, but I did excercise seven whole minutes the other day! SEVEN!!! That is some kinda record for me! :)

I have also been watching what I eat. Now, I haven't been going crazy with an all out restrictive diet, but I have been trying to eat only when I'm hungry, and limit the sweets. I have actually been hungry several times this week, so I must be doing something right. In the past, I ate so much that I never got a chance to get hungry.

This week I'll try to do more.

Promise!

(Note the loophole: I did not promise to do more, just to TRY to do more. Just in case...)

Have a good one!

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Ramblings from the Crazy House - New Review!!! Joan Welles Worship Guitar!







About the product/service:

As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received the Volume One Book and DVD set for the Jean Welles Worship Guitar Class. Jean Welles is a worship guitarist who loves the Lord and wants to share her love of the Lord through music. She not only wants others to hear her play, she wants others to know the joy of being able to worship the Lord while playing music to His glory.

The DVD is simply Jean talking to you and showing you how to play as though she were sitting in the same room right across from you. Each DVD comes with a small booklet that has all the music in it that you can either follow along with, or use independently. I also got the full-sized book which is much nicer than the little booklet, and has a bit more detail. The larger books can be purchased separately or with the DVD. There are several packages available on the website, including those that include a guitar! There are also books and DVD for other instruments too!




What are the pros of this product?

This is a great program which is like having a guitar teacher in your own home. (Only much cheaper!) I realize there are a lot of other programs out there that probably do much the same thing, but this is great if you really want to learn worship music. I also like that there is a mix of more traditional songs, along with some of the more modern music. Most of the music should be familiar to most people.

What's not to like?

It's a bit hard to follow along in the book while watching the video.

The Crazy Mom take:

I am totally geeked about this one. I taught myself guitar as a teen but have seldom picked one up since becoming a mom. I was so glad to HAVE to check out this program! My biggest problem was getting a turn at the TV or computer to play the DVD. When I finally got the chance, I was pleasantly surprised.

The first thing I noticed was that Jean doesn't use a pick. I have always used a pick and pretty much strummed all songs the same way. So, while I actually already knew the chords, I was (and still am) still learning new strumming patterns. Actually, I have only done three lessons so far, and still need to practice before moving on. Finger playing is totally new to me. I really like being able to "go back" like this and learn from scratch. I think learning these techniques makes the difference between being a good and a great guitarist.

This is just a wonderful program! The only thing I would like to see them change is to somehow show the chords and chord changes on the screen. I was trying to use only the DVD, and it just wasn't working for me. She would start playing the song, and I could not follow even though I knew the chords. I had to look at the book to figure out what chords I was supposed to be playing. It's not easy to look at the TV and book at the same time. What I ended up doing was using the book after watching the video. I'm sure there's a way the chords could be shown on the screen in the corner as she plays. Still, it's doable, and I still think the program is great. As a matter of fact, I think I might want to order the other three volumes. I've noticed that the later books teach quite a bit, and are above my level. It's too late for Christmas, but my birthday is not too far off...

Now, not being a beginner, I can't say how simple this would be for someone who has never played. Like I said, I can actually strum all the songs in the book already, and I know all the chords. I'm just learning to finger play. Honestly, it did feel like she jumped right in rather quickly. Still, most people get bored if they don't start playing real music right away, so I think it would work for someone new. You might want to to check out some of my fellow crew mates' blogs to get an idea of how this would work with a newbie. :) I know some of them have picked up a guitar for the first time!


What's the bottom line?

For the Volume 1 book and DVD $29.95. Other packages are available. See the website for details. Every product comes with a ONE YEAR 100% money back guarantee!!!

I am going to give Jean Welles Worship Guitar Class 4 out of 5 smileys!!!* :) :) :) :)

Check it out! http://www.worshipguitarclass.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/753915/

*The Smiley System:

:) I can't really recommend this product.
:) :) I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.
:) :) :)This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.
:) :) :) :) Most homeschool moms will find this useful.
:) :) :) :) :) This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!! I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew. I was given the product by the
vendor to use and evaluate in my home so that I might share my insights with others. Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way. I am in no way obligated to give a positive review. I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal! What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive.

As with all products, you must do the research before buying. Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying. I can't guarantee that a product will work for you. You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s). I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review. I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no guarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else. I am simply giving my opinion; only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath. Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!



Copyright 2009 Ramblings from the Crazy House

Wednesday, January 6, 2010

So? What do you think???

I've posted a few things on here. What do you think? Do you like the look/feel of this blog better than the one over at hsb? I think I do, but, hey, you are the readers. I'm just the lowly author. (Sounds funny to call myself an author! LOL)

My old blog, in case you didn't know, is at

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/crazyhouse

Sweet Girls

Today my two lovely girls, Princess,11, and Bear,8, woke up early (7 o'clock, way early for us!) and decided to surprise us by cleaning up the house and doing not only their own chores, but all their siblings' chores too! This was such a lovely surprise that I had to share it with all of you.

Life is usually crazy here, but we have moments. Today was one of those days.

Thanks girls!!! :)

Accountability!

I've decided to do something OUTRAGEOUS!!! I am going to post my weight on my blog, yeah, that's right, for the whole world to see, whenever I weigh in.

Here it is:

168.8

Ouch! Not so pretty on my not quite 5'4" frame. Oh, well, I hope having it "out there" will insprire me. If it keeps going up, well, I'll just stop posting it! LOL

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

JOIN ME WITH FIT MOMMY!!!

Hey, did you see my poll in the sidebar? Please check it out!



Hi there everyone! I am going to be starting something new soon. Actually, I am starting a lot of new things. I need to exercise and lose weight. I have a couple of friends that I used to team up with on SparkPeople, and I plan to get back with that. I also am part of an accountability group with my co-op, and now I am going to team up with my "Bloggy Buddies," all in an attempt to get my rear in gear and get in shape!

I have to laugh, though, at the title of the meme. Fit Mommys. Ha! Well, not me! I am far from fit. I often HAVE fits, but that's another story. For people like me, it should be called Fit Mommys Wannabes. Oh, well. Not my meme, not my biz to name it! LOL (BTW, the gal that started the meme is the most lovely and fit woman you'd ever want to know, my cyber-pal Denise.) Anyway, you can't join my SparkPeople group, it's private. If you are part of my co-op, you're welcome to join our co-op group, but for the rest of you, why not click on the button above and check it out.

I am a beginner. I am only committing to doing SOMETHING every day. If I do one jumping jack, it will be more than I usually do. I am also going to cut out sweets for the most part, allowing myself one small portion, or taste, a day.

So, those are my lofty goals. The sad thing is, I'm not being sarcastic here. For me, these ARE lofty goals! But, as they say, beware of small beginnings. (And in my case, beware of large [rear] ends!)

Monday, January 4, 2010

Ramblings from the Crazy House - NOT ME! MONDAY!: January 4, 2010

While you're here, why not take the poll in my sidebar?

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.



I did a lot this past week, but there is ONE thing I did NOT do. I did not scream at the top of my longs like a total lunatic who had just witnessed a triple homicide, when my son smashed my fingers in a drawer he was trying to open, because I did NOT have my hands wrapped around the counter in such a way that the drawer would have to squeeze past my fingers to open. (I know I am not describing this very well, but why should I care. IT DID NOT HAPPEN!!!)

I then did NOT, the very next day, get the SAME fingers squashed in the SAME drawer by another one of my sons. I then DID NOT scream twice as loudly as I did the day before, as though I found out that I had not witnessed, but committed, the triple homicide in my sleep!

If I had done that my THROAT would have hurt far longer than my FINGERS did!

Boy, am I glad NONE of that happened!!! NOT to me!!! :)"
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