We Love 2 Learn

MS Walk

2009-05-09T08:59:00.008-04:00

Last month we did the MS Walk to support someone in our ward who has MS. It was a three mile walk through woods and open field. It went up hill, down hill and in some places it was really rocky. We took two strollers for the littlest two but, neither of them really sat in the strollers! I held and nursed Bess Bug almost the entire time and Water Bug walked with the big kids. Sometimes he would get distracted by rocks, bugs, leaves, rocks, puddles, grass and rocks. The bigger kids loved the walk. They walked along talking and sometimes would run ahead to see around a corner. June Bug stayed behind with us pushing one of the strollers and listening to his mp3 player. He was such a good sport. It's hard, sometimes, giving up a Saturday morning to go and do something for someone else when you have been doing school all week. We are so proud of June Bug, he is such a good guy!

When we finished the walk there was pizza and water waiting. The kids enjoyed the pizza and then started dancing. We had such a great morning! The weather was great, the kids were in a good mood and we did something that made us feel great!
Linz

Earth Day

2009-05-07T12:47:00.008-04:00

We celebrated Earth Day by reading a books about our planet, learning about aquifers, watched a short video on ground water, talking about how we can reuse junk and dying shirts. We ended by making edible aquifers!

Linz

Jitter Bug Turned 8!

2009-05-05T12:27:00.006-04:00

Jitter Bug turned 8! He had eggs for breakfast, tortillas & beans for lunch and spaghetti for supper. This year he requested pumpkin cake for dessert. He had a great day! Since he turned 8 he was able to make the decision to be baptized to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was baptized, by his dad, in April. June Bug played the guitar, Lady Bug played the piano and Stink, Lightning and Jitter Bug sang "I Am A Child of God." They did such a great job!! There were 50 people at Jitter Bug's baptism! We had lots of treats to eat afterwards. What a special day for Jitter Bug!
Linz

We've Moved...Again!

2009-05-04T18:55:00.009-04:00

That's right we moved again. Our house has been sold and we are temporally living with my parents. The kids are enjoying being with their grandparents and living closer to friends that we have lived far away from. We have played in the snow, rode a dirt bike, flown kites, made smores over a fire, two have learned how to ride bikes, played games with grandparents, gone to the circus, watched a parade, celebrated a couple of birthdays and so much more. OH YEAH we had a baby too. She was born on Februrary 17th. She was 9lb 2oz and 21 1/4in long. She is such a sweet girl! We are so blessed to have her in our family! Enjoy the pics!

Linz

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-17T20:51:00.019-05:00

We are back!

2008-12-13T13:49:00.010-05:00

It's been awhile since I've posted anything. I'm pregnant with baby number 8 and was so sick up until October. We moved and are finally settled in and getting ready for Christmas. We have been slow with school and haven't really gotten back to our normal schedule yet. Life will get back to normal soon. We took the Sister Missionaries to the aquarium last Wednesday. It was their first time at an aquarium.

Our tree is up, the house is decorated, the cards have been sent, wrapping is almost done & Christmas candy has been delivered! We have been enjoying the Christmas seasons! We hope you have a very Merry Christmas!

Linz

Bee Farm

2008-06-25T19:54:00.008-04:00

I took the kids to a bee farm. A friend's parents own one and had invited us to come out. We had a cookout, swam in the lake & learned all about bees. When Stink Bug got out of the lake we noticed he had a leech on his arm!! The kids loved that! We had a great time!

Linz

I'm An Aunt!

2008-06-24T20:03:00.003-04:00

I'm an Aunt! My brother and his wife just had their first baby (a girl)! he is my first sibling to have a child! Baby Charlie was born the day before Father's Day, two months early (Ladybug was two months early as well). Camille, my sis in law, is such a strong woman! She had pre-eclampsia and it was a very severe case. They ended up having the baby, by c-section, after being in the hospital a week. My brother told me that Camille's epidural (they tried 5 times) did not take and she felt most of the pain! OUCH! She is still recovering. Baby Charlie is doing well! She has been breathing room air this whole time and is able to drink milk from a bottle. She's a strong baby, like her mama! I am so proud of them! Welcome to our family and to the world, Baby Charlie!

Aunt Linz

Baby Number 8!

2008-06-24T19:31:00.002-04:00

That's right baby number 8 is due February 18, 2009! I am only six weeks along and look huge! Last week I couldn't fit into my pants anymore and my shirts are ridiculously tight! Oh well I guess with each pregnancy I get bigger and bigger earlier. ;) I usually get sick around my seventh week so...I probably won't be blogging for awhile. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be as bad as all of the others. :) :) I am preparing for the worst, though. I triple supper, each night, and put half into the outside freezer. That way hubby can just defrost one in the fridge while he's at work and cook it when he gets home.
The kids are very excited and are eager to pick out names. We are very happy our family is getting bigger and so grateful to our Heavenly Father for blessing us with our seven sweet children!
Linz

More Camping Pictures!

2008-06-24T10:37:00.010-04:00

A Camping We Will Go!

2008-06-24T09:39:00.006-04:00

We took the kids camping last weekend at First Landing State Park. The first night we were there, June Bug was with his friends at another site. The second night he was with us and we focused on Dad--it was Father's Day weekend. My hubby does so much for us! He works really hard to give us vacations, food and clothing. Most importantly he loves us! He is always there when we need him and tries hard to lighten my load each day. So, for all that he does--we honored him by camping!! :)

When we arrived at the campground hubby went right to work setting up the tent. After we set up camp, we mad a fire and cooked supper. We had chicken hobo foil dinners. They took awhile to cook because we have such a large family (next time we will have two fires for cooking). The kids were so cute sitting around the fire. They started singing the Sponge Bob Square Pants campfire song -- absolutely funny! By the time we got the kids into bed it was midnight.

Saturday morning started out with eggs for breakfast and teeth brushing next to the trees (the kids thought it was so funny to brush their teeth outside). We went swimming in the bay and then came back for lunch. We ate pb&j sandwiches (except for baby and mommy -- we reheated supper from the night before over the fire) for lunch and then roasted marshmallows for dessert. After our smores we went swimming in the pool and by this time June Bug had joined us. For supper we roasted hot dogs over the fire and made smores! After supper I went to the camp store and bought a tarp (I heard it might rain). There was a car accident on the street that ran next to the camp and power line were down, so, the camp lost power. We thought, "No big deal, we're camping and don't need power." We did need power....in the bathrooms and showers! It was interesting going the bathroom in the dark, someone always has to be with you to hold a flashlight so that you could see. We could not take a shower because there wasn't any warm water (or light). After our long potty brake (in the dark) we went for a walk down to the bay and then back to camp. I sat with the kids around the campfire singing songs and a game of flashlight tag (around the fire ahhhh), while hubby put the tarp over the tent. The kids and I had been playing for awhile when I turned and looked behind me at my husband and noticed he was working in the dark! All that time had gone by and he never complained that he couldn't see!! He never asked the kids for a flashlight! I was truly amazed by husband selfless act. We only had 7 flashlights and he did not want to take one away from any one. I am so glad he put the time to put the tarp over our 12 man tent because in the middle of the night it rained.

Sunday morning we gave Dad breakfast-sausage gravy over biscuits. After breakfast the kids sang a song they had been practicing in primary for Fathers Day and we gave dad his gifts. We then made eclairs over the campfire. After we finished eating we cleaned up camp and packed the trailer. It took us hours! Everyone was assigned a job and that made everything run smoother. When we left camp we drove to a nearby beach and went fishing. We stayed for 2 hours and then headed home.

We arrived home at 2:00 am! I am so grateful for my husband -- he loaded the trailer at home, drove both ways, set up our tent, unloaded the trailer at camp, started our fires and worked to keep it going the whole time, he also took the kids to the bathroom everytime they needed to go and always asked what he could do to help. I sure do love him!

Camping was fun! I am glad we were able to go and I look forward to next years camping trip!

Linz

June Bug is 14!

2008-06-19T11:07:00.004-04:00

June Bug turned 14 last week! In our family that is a big deal -- well all birthday's are a big deal but 14 is special! June Bug is now a Teacher in his quorum at church, he can go on all youth trips and he can go to stake dances! In our family, birthdays # 8, 12, 16 and 19 are very special and the kids can pick to do something very special to celebrate. June Bug chose to go camping with six of his friends from back home. We took them to First Landing State Park in Virgina Beach. The boys had their own camp site, fire and food. They brought a tv with them and played Guitar Hero and watched movies. They roasted hot dogs for supper, made breakfast burritos for breakfast and ate many smores and marshmallows. They had such a good time and we enjoyed watching (from afar) them laugh and cook over the fire. I am so proud of my son! He is such a good guy! I love him to death!!! Happy Birthday, June Bug!
Linz

2008-06-07T15:52:00.000-04:00

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Better Than "How It's Made!"

2008-04-28T08:22:00.003-04:00

We have been going on a lot of field trips lately! The kids have been having so much fun! Last Thursday I took them to the GE (General Electric) plant. We sat for about 45 minutes in a room and listened to how they make light bulbs. We were able to see each part of the light bulb before it gets put together. Some of the parts we were able to touch. After the lecture we put on safety goggles and ear plugs. We then took a tour of the plant and saw light bulbs being put together! It was very cool! My kids faces were priceless when we walked onto the factory floor......jaws dropped and eyes big! This particular GE plant produces over 1million light bubls a day! We had so much fun and it was way better than watching How It's Made on the Discovery channel!
Linz

The Wizard of Oz

2008-04-23T16:05:00.003-04:00

Last night we took the kids to a high school to see The Wizard of Oz. Baby Water Bug was scared of the costumes but the rest of the kids loved it. I was so impressed with the teens -- they did it all on their own. They did not have any teachers or adults of any kind helping them. Everything was run by the students and they did a fantastic job! I am so glad we had the opportunity to go!
Linz

Warm Weather Is Here!

2008-04-23T09:01:00.002-04:00

We have been waiting all winter to have nice weather where we can go out and play without freezing to death! The wind here can be really strong and it was hard for the kids to play outside longer than a half an hour. We have had over a week of mild weather, between 55-73 degrees! We love it! WE have finally turned off the heat and opened the windows! Everything is so green and we are about to cut the grass for the first time this year. I love spring!
Linz

Great Saturday!

2008-04-21T11:12:00.007-04:00

We miss our friends back home very much! Friday night we had friends call to say that they would be in the DC area. We made plans to meet them at the Washington DC Temple Saturday afternoon. It's a two hour drive for us, so we packed a few snacks and headed out the door around 11:00 am. We only brought the two girls and the two littlest boys since they only have girls. We went to This Is The Place Bookstore first and then headed over to the temple visitors center.

I watched their two youngest girls while they (the parents) went into the temple. our friends, the Potters, have a 2mo. baby girl, an 8yr girl and a 14 yr girl. In the visitors center, we watched a movie and looked at a picture display of President Gordon B. Hinkley. It was so beautiful to see his life and work all over the walls. When their parents came out of the temple we walked over to the fountain to take pictures. The little boys were so cute!

While we were at the temple we saw a family that had moved away a few months ago and a couple that goes to our church (where we live now). Every time we go to the temple we see people (mostly that we knew a long time ago) we know! I love it!

Later we went out to eat with the Potters and then said goodbye (but not for too long--we will be visiting them next month). We had such a lovely day!

Linz

Piano Lessons

2008-04-21T11:05:00.004-04:00

Ladybug, Stink Bug and Lightning Bug started piano lessons last Monday. This is Ladybug's second year and the other bug's first time. They all are enjoying it! In the picture you can see Stink Bug helping Lightning Bug with a problem she was having. :)

Linz

More Pictures From Our Weekend With Friends!

2008-04-15T08:46:00.006-04:00

News Staion Field Trip

2008-04-15T08:35:00.005-04:00

Last week I took the children to a news station to meet the meteorologist. She gave a tour of the news room and explained what all the buttons do and showed the kids the lights (bright). She talked about how she gets her weather information and talked about all the symbols that we see on the weather maps. The kids got to go in front of the green screen and be on camera. The kids did such a good job listening...I was so proud! It was a great field trip!
Linz

Baptism

2008-04-15T08:08:00.005-04:00

Saturday our Lightning Bug chose to be baptized and become an official member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! We are so proud of her for making this decision! She is such a sweet daughter and a loving sister.

Friends and family drove five hours to be here for her. We had such a good time with them! Lightning Bug received her first set of scriptures, a pocket hymn book, a journal, earrings and a picture of Christ. Ladybug played I Am A Child of God on the piano. June Bug and his friend from back home played I Am A Child of God together on the guitar. June Bug's friend played a beautiful song, on the piano, while daddy and daughter got dressed. Also our friend, Sara, played the piano for us to sing to. Everyone helped to make the day perfect!

When I was in the room helping my daughter change out of her wet clothes I suddenly got sad. I realized that she is my last girl. When our last two kids get baptized they will change with their dad. When I walked out into the hall and saw my hubby waiting for us I cried. He just kissed me (and half laughed) and said honey we will have more! I smiled at that but I am not guaranteed a girl!:)

I am so grateful to our friends and family that helped out with the baptism. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband that loves our family and the Lord. It was a beautiful day!

Linz

Missing Teeth

2008-04-05T10:21:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday I tool Jitter Bug to the dentist to get two of his teeth pulled. He had two cavities that were in between his teeth, they either needed a root canal or be pulled. We chose the easier option-pull them! From the time he walked into the dentist office to checkout it only took twenty minutes. He only had minor swelling and he wasn't in any pain. He was back to eating regular food by supper! He was a brave boy!
Linz

Giant Field Trip!

2008-03-27T20:49:00.003-04:00

Today I took the kids on a field trip to Giant. We took a tour to every department in the store and talked about the different food groups. We sampled food and got to touch a lobster. At the end of the tour our guide gave each kid a bag of healthy snacks, which mine devoured on the way home. The kids had a good time and met some new kids!
Linz

Bug Hunting!

2008-03-27T20:27:00.006-04:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day! The kids enjoyed playing outside in the yard, riding on toys and looking for bugs! It has been hard keeping long pants and shoes (we are barefoot kind of people) on the kids this winter.........we are used to very mild winters. We are very excited for spring!

Linz

Sink or Float Lesson

2008-03-26T11:39:00.006-04:00

Our science topic for this month is "Sink or Float." Today we watched a video on brainpop.com then they split into groups to do an experiment. I gave them a sink or float record sheet then asked them to sort out the items, I had gathered, onto wax paper that said sink on one and float on the other. After they recorded all the items on the paper they tested each item in the water. If it sank they recorded it and why then they did the same if it floated. It was a fun activity and we always love watching the Brain Pop videos. I have a few more experiments planned for the next few weeks so keep an eye out for those.
Linz

Happy Easter!

2008-03-25T21:47:00.004-04:00

GO!

2008-03-25T21:32:00.003-04:00

I had to laugh today at little Water Bug! He was running around the house saying, "GO!!" Talk about baby imitating Mommy! I feel like I am always saying "GO!" When we are getting our teeth brushed-GO!, when we are sharpening our pencils-GO!, when we are getting into the car-GO!, as we are walking into the store/church (anywhere)-GO!, when we are going to bed-GO! Don't I say "go" a lot! It's not like I am yelling go or that I say it sharply I'm simply just saying "go." When we are brushing teeth there are a lot of teeth to be brushed and if we don't hurry I'll loose someone, when one needs to sharpen their pencil all of a sudden everyone wants to and it interrupts school, there is always a line of kids waiting to get into the car through the one door and again I'll loose somebody to the yard or basketball hoop! Not to mention there are seven kids to get from here and there and someone always forgets something once we are in the car and now we are running late and I'm saying "GO" again to get into church or wherever we are going. And bedtime do I have to explain myself there?! So, maybe I do need to stop saying "go" so much if now the baby says it. ;) I love my life and I love my sweet children!
Linz

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-03-21T20:56:00.003-04:00

Last week we celebrated Dad's birthday! He started the day off with a trip to the dentist! Weeee what fun! He returned home to eat waffles and then it was off to work. I sent him to work with a few yummy treats ........ homemade caramel corn and cookies. My sister and his mom surprised him at work with gifts! When he arrived home we sang happy birthday and then we were off to cub/boy scouts. While I was with the cubs and he was with the boy scouts, Lady Bug and the others decorated a room where we were going to open presents. He did not know that we had brought his gifts to the church and he was very surprised by all the decorations! After we put the kids to bed he and I ate supper that we had picked up on the way home. Later that week we were able to leave the kids with his mom and go to the movies. The last time we had seen a movie (w/o kids) was last August (and before that May of 2006) !! We enjoyed ourselves very much!

I am so grateful for my husband! He works so hard for our family and is always there when we need him! He is a great dad, my biggest fan and my best friend! Happy Birthday!

Linz

Jitter Bug Is 7!

2008-03-21T20:33:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday Jitter Bug! Jitter Bug turned 7 this week! He requested cinnamon rolls for breakfast and spaghetti for supper. We went and saw Horton Hears a Who with some friends. After the movie we surprised him by telling him that his friend was coming home with us for his first ever sleep-over! Jitter Bug was very excited! My mom had called and invited us to go eat pizza and bowling so Jitter Bug was surprised once again! We ended the day with sleeping bags in front of the tv to watch Enchanted (great movie). He had a very fun busy day!

Linz

DC Field Trip Pictures

2008-03-21T20:08:00.003-04:00

Big Kids Only!

2008-03-20T11:35:00.003-04:00

Last Friday I took the older three kids to Washington DC. We hopped on the metro at 9:40 and arrived at our stop at 10:20. I was very nervous to get on the metro without my husband -- I had never done it before by myself. June Bug was great! When we went to the machines to purchase our ticket I stood there starring at the directions, stops and cost to ride (why do we have to figure out how much we want on our ticket why can't you just put in where you want to go and then it just spits it out?). While I was looking, June Bug says, "Mom it's easy!" He the proceeded to tell me how much we want and how to use the machine! Just like his Dad I thought! He was so smart and he has only been on the metro one time since he was 5 years old! My hubby met us and we enjoyed the train ride together. It was nice being with just the big kids. We didn't have to worry about kids staying in their seats or running around. It was nice giving the big kids some attention and going on a field trip that was just for them.

When we arrived in DC we walked straight to the Library of Congress where we were meeting a homeschool group from Maryland. We took the tour instead of walking around on our own. I highly recommend the tour because they explain what all the symbols mean and give you so much history and information on the building. After the Library of Congress we walked to the Supreme Courthouse. We had lunch and then said goodbye to Dad because he had to get back to work. I loved that he made time to come with us! The kids and I then got in line with our homeschool group to hear a lecture given in the actual court room. Again great lecture! The room was beautiful! After the lecture was done we visited the gift shop and then headed back to the metro.

The weather was perfect. DC was blooming and beautiful. My kids were wonderful. It was a great day!
Linz

Gymnastics Studio

2008-02-29T17:03:00.008-05:00

Today I took the kids to a gymnastics studio, called Style Gymnastics, that a Maryland homeschool group had set up. We had a blast! There were a lot more kids and many that are June Bug's age. In fact June bug already knew one from the homeschool conference we went to last year! Wow! It made me so happy that he found someone that he likes and shares the same interests!
The studio was set up so that the toddler area was separate (but connected) to the larger equipment. The toddler area had a moon bounce, rope swings, a trampoline, balls, soft ramps and climbing shapes. For the older kids there was a larger trampoline, a tumble tramp, balance beams, bars and so much more. My younger two played in the toddler are and also wondered all over the gym playing with their older siblings. It was so nice to see all the kids playing with their younger brothers and sisters and not one complained that little kids were in there way or taking too long on the equipment. I just love that aspect of homeschooling -- the kids always play and include everyone! The staff was so friendly and easy going. I can't wait to go there again!

Linz

Valentines Party

2008-02-29T15:53:00.003-05:00

Since we have moved it has been hard to find a group that is close to us. There are two are groups but both are over an hour away. I took the kids to a Valentine party with a homeschool group that is near my hubby's work The kids had a great time and I enjoyed meeting the moms. They exchanged valentines, ate treats and played games. After the party we went to dad's work and had a picnic lunch...in the car ;)! It was great seeing him in the middle of the day! The day ended with pink waffles and take out from the Olive Garden (just for mom and dad)!

Linz

I'm Back!!!

2008-02-06T14:43:00.000-05:00

Wow! What a busy couple of months! We have moved......but into a short term rental. We want to find just the right house for us! We have celebrated two more birthdays, lost three teeth, sold a car, gone on many many field trips, celebrated the birth of our Christ, read tons of books, potty trained a child, seen Santa, visited Grandparents, gave thanks on Thanksgiving, gone back home five times to visit or paint, went trick or treating, unloaded two moving trucks, two trailers and many van loads of our "stuff" from our old house, got a new computer :), started a rock collection, had a happy New Year, and Baby Water Bug can now walk! And more!

We miss our friends and family back home deeply and wonder what they are doing everyday! We long for the beach and warmer weather. I miss my house which is full of memories and echos of my childrens laughter and tears. Thank goodness for blogging, email and unlimited long distance! Even though we have moved we can always be close!

We have a new veiw from our home and new sounds outside. More friends and memories to make. We have new and exciting places to go see. Our adventure has just begun!

Linz

Carmel Apples and Pumpkin Pie

2007-09-26T13:57:00.000-04:00

The kids are enjoying carmel apples and pumpkin pie! We read about the life cycle of a pumpkin last Thursday and then made pumpkin pie. Everyone in our house loves pumpkin, we eat pumpkin bread all week (year round). The apples that they are eating are the ones that we picked at the orchard. We like our apples with carmel, chocolate, sprinkles and marshmallows. We usually take out the stick and cut up our apples to eat them (we have a lot of wiggly teeth :)). Next we will be making apple pie!
Linz

Apple Picking

2007-09-25T17:08:00.000-04:00

Friday we took the kids apple picking! We had a great time! We picked 12lbs of apples. Every year we go at the wrong time. The first year we went too late, the next year we went too early and this year we went later than last year but earlier than the year before and it was still wrong! I will just have to keep on top of it next year. Ladybug wants Gala, Stink Bug wants Granny Smith and I want those plus Macintosh. We picked Yellow Delicious this year. They are good too so we are happy. Time to make carmel apples --- yummmm!

Linz

Happy Birthday Wheel Bug!

2007-09-22T23:17:00.000-04:00

Today Wheel Bug turned 4 years old! Wow! Time sure does fly by quick! He requested cinnamon rolls for breakfast and an ice cream sandwich cake. After lunch we went to Stink Bug's soccer game (he scored a goal and did a happy dance on the field ;)) and Wheel Bug and bro/sis all got slushies. We had plans to go to a local farm to visit the animals but it had rained earlier and the farm was too wet. So, we took the kids bowling. I did not realize how expensive bowling is. :? The kids had a great time! We then went home to enjoy cake and open presents. Wheel Bug got a knight and horse, Lego's, imaginext horse and cart, a rescue helicopter, $20 and a Playmobile Pirate Ship. He loved everyone of his gifts! Thank you to everyone that sent him a card or gift. We are so blessed to have Wheel Bug in our family. He is such a sweet boy! Happy Birthday Wheel Bug!
Linz

Birthday Bash

2007-09-17T06:50:00.000-04:00

Last weekend we held a "Birthday Bash" for our fall birthday kids. Wheel Bug, water Bug, Stink Bug and Lightning Bug invited all of their friends (and family) to our house for cake, hot dogs, pinatas and face painting. We split the party into three age (we just let Water Bug crawl around) groups. Stink Bug's group had a Super Smash Brothers tournament -- we had two tvs set up with two game cubes. Lightning Bug's group made erasers out of eraser clay (they bake in the oven then you can use it as an eraser). Wheel Bug's group painted figurines then played pin the tail on the donkey. After each group was finished with their activity they went outside to hit the pinata. We started with the youngest group, and when they finished we brought out another, while the group that just hit jumped on the trampoline, ate hot dogs or got their face painted. This is the first time we have ever had a "Birthday Bash" or 80+ people at our house. It went well and everyone had a great time! We tried to keep the cost under $150 -- from plates to pinatas to food. We were so happy to have all of our friends over to our home before we move!

Linz

Successful Week!

2007-09-13T22:02:00.000-04:00

We had a great first week of school! On Monday night someone from my church called and said that they would pick up June Bug for me (at 5:30am) for early morning seminary! WOW! It has been so nice not having to wake the kids at 5:00 am to take June Bug to class.

We have started each day with morning devotional -- song, prayer lesson/story from the scriptures and reciting the Articles of Faith.
Monday - our lesson was on Joseph and Potiphar's Wife and we discussed how we can be obedient
Tuesday - reviewed Monday's lesson and talked about how we can avoid temptation
Wednesday - read out of the Book of Moses and worked on memorizing a verse
Thursday - talked about men around us who are good examples of Fathers/Husbands, for the boys; what qualities do they see in them that they would like to develop, girls; what do they see in them that they would like in a future husband and how boys/men should treat girls/women

Each day we did math, grammar/writing and read. We also did history, geography (Arizona) and science. We played games, typed on the computer, looked up information on the web, went to the library, made bread, brainstormed ideas about projects they would like to do,wrote letters and used white out for the first time (and they thought that was COOL!). I thought we had a very successful week! The tv, game cube and computer play times were limited this week to an hour and half each day -- a very nice change from the summer. The kids have all been to bed on time and asleep on time:). I am looking forward to next week!

Well, I am off to go pack for a weekend at my Mom and Dad's.
Linz

Chasing Big Brother!

2007-09-12T16:34:00.001-04:00

This is a picture of June Bug trying to get into our house -- he was being chased by Ladybug, Stink, Lightning, Jitter and Wheel Bug! The kids had me call June Bug downstairs (while they hid) to help me with something. When he entered the family room they all jumped out of their hiding places and threw balls at him. He screamed, AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! I was laughing so hard I could not take pictures. They then chased him all around the outside of the house and across the street. I was looking through the locked back door when he came up to it screaming, "MOM, LET ME IN.......AAAHHHHH!" I did get a picture of that! They made one fatal error -- they forgot to watch Wheel Bug and he left the front door wide open and June Bug came running in, up the stairs and into the bathroom. He remained locked in there for 10 minutes waiting for the kids to go away. I was on the phone with a friend and apologised for the noise. My friend told me no worries that she comes from a family of 11 so she understood! These are some of the moments when I love having seven kids -- when they run around like a pack calling to each other, laughing all together that it is so loud for them to hear me, when they gang up on their brother and work as a team to get him and when they do get him all the high fives I get as they walk by. I love my kids!

Linz

First "Official" Day of School

2007-09-10T14:02:00.000-04:00

We officially started today! YAY!! We started at 9:20 (my goal was 9:00) with devotional, math, grammar, history, some practiced cursive writing and then we made bread. Water Bug and Wheel Bug did very good! June Bug is questioning almost every thing I say and comments on what the kids say. Hopefully this will be just a short phase cause I am already tired of it. Any suggestions? Tomorrow we start early morning seminary and I will be waking the kids up at 5:00am to get June Bug to the teacher's house. We will see how the rest of the week goes when they start waking up so early. Here are some pictures of our first day--enjoy!

Linz

Ten Reasons Why I Love To Homeschool!

2007-09-07T07:26:00.000-04:00

When the school bus drives by my kids are still sleeping peacefully!
I get to see the expression on my child's face when he makes a circuit and the light bulb glows in Science class!
I get to cuddle in the middle of Math!
We get the library to ourselves because everyone is in school!
When my child has a bad day, I know why and don't have to try to pry it out of them.
Did I mention we get to sleep past the time the bus comes?!
We can "do" school in our PJs!
The museums are empty because everyone is in school!
I can teach my children what I want them to know and what I think is important!
Because of the hugs and kisses I get all day long!
Because there has never been or ever will be any school shootings at our school!

Oh was that 10.

The list could go on!

My pregnancies were very hard -- bed rest, going into labor early, leaving 4 kids in the hospital because they were premature, vomiting all or most of my pregnancies --all day, dehydration and more! I did not go through all that just to have them leave at 5 years old! I love my kids and no one knows them like I do! I am so grateful that we are able to do school at home. I am thankful for friends and family who support me! We will start our school in a week. We have been packing way too long and are looking forward to school!

Linz

Tubes

2007-09-05T15:39:00.000-04:00

We took baby water Bug to the hospital today to get tubes in his ears. He has had on going ear infections for 5 weeks! He can not take any antibiotics because he has had an allergic reaction to all antibiotics so far! The last one was so severe that they told me he can not have any more antibiotics. What does that mean? What happens when he gets strep throat? He will get it too -- my kids always get strep. I had six kids with me that day, at the doctor's office, and had been in the room for an hour and forty minutes. I just wanted them to tell me what we needed to do so that I could take my pep squad home. I didn't ask too many questions, except the same one -- will the side effects to this or that drug be the same as Zithromax? He apparently could not understand me, what with all the cheers and tears going on behind me. The doctor was about to give him an injection of some drug when a nurse walked in and asked the magic question......"He has never had an allergic reaction to any medication before, right. Because......" UH YES!!! I had told the Dr. three times about his reactions. Anyway, the nurse took the medication away quickly (like I was about to grab the needle and stick my child) and said that the same ingredients are in that drug as the ones he had reactions to. We were sent to an ENT the next day and that doctor scheduled him to get tubes in a week. He needed to get tubes because he can't take any antibiotics and even if his ears did clear up on it's own this time he could still get infected again and that will give us time to figure out his allergies. When we move I will talk to another dr about his allergy issue.
We arrived at the hospital at 6:00 am and his surgery was done at 7:45am. We had to give baby a sedative so that I could had him over to the nurse. He was not about to go with someone other than mom. We did not want him to go to the OR screaming and the nurses to hold him down so that they could strap him in and put the gas mask on. I was so sad watching my baby walk away from me with someone else. He did great! All the nurses loved him and wanted to cuddle with him. We are at home now and he is a little bit grumpy but we are glad it's over and he is doing well!
Linz

LOL!!

2007-08-27T22:57:00.000-04:00

Check out this description for Pokemon cards selling on ebay! Funny!
Linz

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130144061675&ru=http%3A%252

Taking A Break

2007-08-21T09:10:00.000-04:00

Stink Bug and Ladybug take a break from packing to dance!

Water Bug is happy watching them. We packed 15 boxes yesterday and threw away lots of junk/trash. Back to packing!

Linz

Spider

2007-08-19T22:46:00.000-04:00

While doing some much needed yard work this weekend, Dad and June Bug found a large spider with a very big web! We really need a spider identification book!!

Linz

She Has Arrived!!!

2007-08-16T14:58:00.001-04:00

Ladybug's American Girl doll has arrived! She has been asking for one since last year. She has saved her birthday money and any other money she has earned and payed for it all by herself! Today when the door bell rang, screams of joy rang through the house when she saw the box on the front porch! Thank you to everyone who sent her money for her birthday to use towards her doll!

Linz

ps I just heard her singing Happy Birthday to her doll :)

Swimming With Friends

2007-08-15T09:54:00.001-04:00

Friends of ours have moved (it seems like everyone is moving) into a new home with a pool! They are good friends of ours and have been a source of inspiration in our homeschooling. They used to live around the corner and now they have moved 20 minutes away. They are not far away but we used to be able to walk to their house. We went over on Tuesday to go swimming and eat lunch. The kids had a great time! Water Bug is still sick and he slept quite a bit--poor baby. Hope you are keeping cool!

Linz

And Then There Was Four

2007-08-14T08:02:00.000-04:00

My hubby went out of town this week and took three kids with him--Lightning, Jitter and Wheel Bug. They went with dad to visit their Grandparents. WOW what a difference three gone makes! It is so quiet here! I can not believe the silence. It was a nice change the first day (especially since Water Bug is sick) but now I am going crazy! I don't miss screaming (happily) kids, I just miss all the talking and laughing which can get really loud! There has not been one argument between the kids I have home now, that's great but they also are not talking to each other they are just doing their own thing. I did bring them together last night and played a game with them. I miss the kids (and hubby) very much but, I am going to take this time to get a lot of packing done.
Linz

Sweet Pictures

2007-08-08T22:15:00.000-04:00

Swimming

2007-08-08T21:56:00.001-04:00

Today was a great day to swim! Friends of ours are moving to Oregon on Friday so we spent the afternoon swimming at their pool. We had lots of fun! jitter Bug went under water for the first time -- he liked it and did it many times! He also jumped off the edge of the pool by himself! I have been telling him all summer that he can touch the bottom of the pool in the shallow end -- he tried it and was sooo happy that he walked all around! It was a day of firsts for him! Way to go Jitter Bug! After we finished swimming we said goodbye to our friends the Foggs! We will miss them!

Linz

Obx Pictures

2007-07-30T17:50:00.001-04:00

OBX

2007-07-30T17:35:00.000-04:00

We had a great time this weekend in the Outer Banks! My parents and tons of extended family rented a beach house together and we went to visit. The kids had a blast!!! I love being with my Mom at the beach---we both can sit for hours and hours watching the kids and the ocean! :) It was so great to see cousins, aunts and uncles that I haven't seen in some time. My cousins gave my kids so much attention and truly made my kids feel that they were loved by them. It always makes me so happy when someone shows an interest in my kids! They (my cousins) could have just said "hi" to my kids then gone on their way to do their own thing but they didn't they played and talked with them, hugged and kissed them! I am so lucky to have such a loving family!

All of the kids went into the water this weekend.........a first for our family! Jitter and Wheel Bug played in the water and jumped waves! June, Stink and Lightning Bug went out far, jumped and road the waves in! Ladybug ran, laughed and played in the water. Water Bug truly lives up to his name! We put him down in the sand and he immediately crawled into the ocean!!! We have never had a baby who did that! Every time we moved him out of the water he crawled back! It was so fun to watch!

We had such a great time! Thank you family for having us!

Linz

Paint Party!

2007-07-16T13:47:00.000-04:00

We had Ladybug's birthday party this weekend. We took Ladybug and friends to a pottery store. The girls either chose a plate or a figurine to paint. Ladybug painted a Ladybug on a plate. We were not surprised! They all had a great time! Ladybug got a hat, a necklace, beads and a gift card to Claires. We took the boys with us to the party and they got to paint also. They had fun! Wheel Bug loves to paint so he was in heaven!

Linz

He's Back!

2007-07-13T21:47:00.000-04:00

June Bug has had a busy month! He went and visited grandparents for a week, stayed with a friend for a week, went to scout camp for a week, went out of town with dad and stayed with a cousin for a week and tonight he is staying over with some friends and going to see Harry Potter! What a month!! When he stayed over at a friends house they worked on the friends Eagle Scout Project. They built a bridge at a state park. He had a lot of fun and got very tan! He had a awesome time at scout camp working on merit badges and swimming! His favorite merit badge was Shot Gun Shooting. He always loves the food at camp -- he says they have tons of food and it's hot! While at his cousins house last week, they rode an ATV, swam, played the WII, rode go-karts, picked black berries and so much more!

We missed him so much and the house was not the same! He needed it! It was a great opportunity for him to stretch his wings. He came back more mature (he has always been very mature for his age) and very easy going. I am glad he had a great time and so excited to have him home!

Linz

Helping Out

2007-07-11T08:28:00.001-04:00

June Bug and Dad are out of town this week. The kids have been helping out with June Bug's chores. This morning Stink Bug unloaded the dishwasher without being asked. This was his first time unloading the dishwasher and he did such a good job! He only asked one time where something went -- June Bug asks almost everyday where something goes! :) I opened the cabinet to get something out and this (the above picture) is what I found. I laughed out loud! What a good boy and what a great attempt!
Linz

2007-07-09T09:27:00.000-04:00

Ladybug just celebrated her 10th birthday! She started the day with doughnuts followed by seeing Ratatouille. She loved the movie! We ate at IHOP for supper and had chocolate cake. She had a great birthday! Happy Birthday Ladybug!

Linz

On The Road Again!

2007-06-26T18:24:00.000-04:00

We always seem to be traveling! We are spending the next two weeks visiting family. June Bug is staying with friends and then they will send him off to scout camp. We are busy going out to eat (which the kids love), visiting friends and family. Next week we will hopefully go to a water park. The kids are staying up late every night--and I am exhausted! We are having lots of fun!
Dad is working the whole time so we are on our own. We love spending time with family and friends. Happy 4th!
Linz

On Her Own!

2007-06-23T23:25:00.000-04:00

I was nursing the baby this afternoon when I look over to the kitchen and see Ladybug standing on the counter! I have never seen her do that! I quietly motioned for someone to get me the camera and I took a picture of her. I then called to her, "Ladybug, what are you doing?" She turned very slowly and smiled and said she was getting her lollipop mold and chocolates out and she didn't want to disturb me. She is so funny! She is such a good girl-always helping out and she makes good choices! What a doll! We love her!

We have seen many Ladybugs lately, have you?

Linz

ps Don't look at our kitchen mess!

We're Moving!

2007-06-23T23:10:00.000-04:00

That's right! We don't know when but it will be sometime soon. We don't know where yet but it will be soon. We will move out of our house first and then put the house on the market. Dad got a new job and it is out of our area so we will move closer to his work. We are sad, we love the area where we live. We love our homeschool group, our friends, our church family, the slower pace of life, the museums and so much more. I know we will love the area we will be moving to once we get there and there will be a lot to explore. So today was a little sad when we packed our first box. BUT, we are very proud of Daddy and happy for him. He takes good care of us! More on the move later.

Linz

ps notice the little Water Bug helping--he pulled books off the shelf for us ;)

Zoo

2007-06-13T19:04:00.000-04:00

I took the kids to the zoo today! It was a perfect day to go--76 degrees with a gentle breeze! The park was not crowded and we did not have to wait at any exhibit for people to move so we could see. Every animal was out and moving around except the tigers and kangaroos. Water Bug did so well! He cried only once, when a goat looked at him in the barnyard exhibit. The kids loved the sloths and squirrel monkeys the best. I was sad that my hubby could not go and experience the sloths and other animals with us but there will be other times. Here is wishing you a 76 degree day with a gentle breeze and well behaved kids!
Linz

Water Bug and Fruit

2007-06-12T14:59:00.000-04:00

I have been trying to feed Water Bug since he was 4 months old (when all my other kids ate). He refused so I did not try again until he was 6 months-which he refused again. I strictly nurse my babies (no water, juice, pacifier or bottle ) until they are 8-9 months but I have always gave them food around 4 months. Not my last one -- he wants to nurse and nothing else! That's fine with me, he is such a chunk! I would like him to start trying to eat cereal or fruit so that when we are on the road (and we are always on the road visiting family) he can have a snack in his seat and maybe he'll be happier. Anyway, I found this pacifier looking thing (I can't remember what it's called) that you open and put fruit in and he won't get chunks of food just the juice. Here is a picture of him trying fruit. So cute!

Linz

Making Butter

2007-06-12T14:37:00.000-04:00

Today the kids and I made butter! We read a few books on Colonial Days then decided to make butter. We put cream in a jar and shook it for about 10 minutes. We drained the buttermilk and June Bug shaped the butter on a plate. The kids spread it on bread and ate it. Everyone liked it and some ate seconds and thirds! What a great way to learn!
Linz

Happy Bithday June Bug!

2007-06-08T10:28:00.000-04:00

June Bug turned 13 yesterday! He spent the day playing his new XBOX (he bought it himself) with his friend, watching his first PG13 movie (Pirates of the Caribbean), he visited friends in the afternoon, opened presents, he did a service project with the youth in our church and then to top it off he put his face in his Oreo Pie! He requested french toast for breakfast, chicken and rice wraps for lunch, Shepherd's pie for supper and Oreo Pie for dessert.
June Bug is a wonderful big brother and a great son! We are so thankful to have him in our family! Happy Birthday June Bug!
Linz

Summer Evening

2007-06-06T05:38:00.001-04:00

After supper, yesterday, we went outside to play. The kids played until dark. They jumped rope, blew bubbles, rode bikes/scooters, played baseball and jumped rope. Our jump rope champ was June Bug with 46 jumps! What a lovely evening with the kids! Linz

Experimenting With Plants And Soil

2007-06-06T05:10:00.001-04:00

Every summer I produce a calendar of activities for the kids. Each day there would be an activity they would have to do. This summer I decided that we were going to read all summer and play a game together each day. We read everyday regardless but this summer I plan to have them choose a subject and then we are going to read all about it and if an activity presents itself we'll do it!

We started this plan yesterday. It went GREAT! Our reading lasted about an hour and a half. During that time I had a chance to go over some things we had learned throughout the year. We read about plants and soil. When we had finished we thought we might do a couple of experiments. First we took a jar and filled it 1/3 of the way with dirt--Math. We added water to the top then shook it. We then put it on our counter and we are letting it settle for 24hrs. We hope to see what kind of soil we have; heavy, light or a mixture. For our next experiment we took a pan and filled it with dirt, planted some grass seeds and watered it. After a week in the sun we will cover half of the pan with cardboard. We each made a hypothesis of what we thought might happen to the grass under the cardboard. The activities ran smoothly. Each child had a job and felt good about his/her role. There was no arguing (in fact there wasn't any the whole day!) and everyone pitched in to clean up when we were done. I think from start to finish "school" took 1hr 45min! What an awesome way to kick off our summer!

Linz

Science Project Pictures

2007-06-05T05:31:00.000-04:00

Science Fair

2007-06-05T05:15:00.000-04:00

Last night was our homeschool groups science fair/end of the year party. All of the projects were great! There was quick sand, plants, biomes, the 5 senses, reports, bird adaptation, habitats and more. My children did very well! My younger ones had a scrapbook of what they did in science, they read it and showed the pictures. June Bug did a project on birds, the different types of beaks they have and how they adapt to there surroundings. He did a fabulose job! I love having a big kid who can get an idea and with very little help from me ("Mom, where's the tweezers and plant seeds?") do his own science experiment! I love teaching my kids at home!

Linz

No Greater Calling

2007-06-04T06:15:00.000-04:00

Last week we went on a small trip. We stayed at my Mother in Law's house, except she wasn't there. My husband had to work so the kids and I went on a few field trips to keep us busy. The week before we took our oldest and youngest to a HS conference at Southern Virginia University. When we returned home we did laundry and went to church. On Monday we took the kids to an amusement park and then drove a few hours to stay at my MIL's house. Everyday that we spent there was go go go! The kids had stayed up late while we were gone and then every night since we had been home. My husband had to work and we only saw him at night so I kept the kids busy all day. The kids started to complain and argue over everything. My patience were running thin. One morning as we were getting ready to leave the house to start our day, my husbands Aunt stopped in. We said hello and continued to gather our things that we would need for the day and pack the car. The kids said goodbye and went to the car. As I went to say goodbye she said to me, "Linz, you really enjoy your kids--it really shows!" Wow! Here I was frustrated and thinking I had had enough and then someone comes along and reminds me that I have no greater calling than to be with and raise my children! I know that my Heavenly Father was speaking through this woman, telling me He's proud of me and that He loves me. Over the next two days I received three compliments about my family--one from my Dad, a stranger and another one of my husbands Aunts with tears in her eyes. I am so grateful to those people who felt the spirit whisper to them to uplift me when I was feeling unappreciated and tired.
We are now home and ready to kick off our summer! We will be attending our homeschool group end of the year party tonight. The kids are excited and so am I! Happy Summer!
Linz

Frying Pan Park

2007-06-02T13:17:00.000-04:00

The kids and I went on a field trip to a farm last week. We saw a cow and a goat get milked. We petted a horse, calf and a goat. We took a hay ride around the farm and learned about the many types of crops they grow. It was hot but the kids had fun!

Linz

Nature Baby

2007-05-27T22:44:00.001-04:00

Our little guy loves trees! He is always staring at them and when he is near them he reaches out to touch the leaves. He is such a sweet boy!

Linz

Homeschool Conference

2007-05-27T22:31:00.000-04:00

Last week my husband and I attended a homeschool conference at Southern Virginia University. Beautiful school! We took along our oldest, June Bug, and the baby. While we were in classes, June Bug was in his own mini youth conference. The conference was wonderful, the speakers were great and the families were awesome!! On Saturday the everyone went to Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's home). Our tour guide was fantastic! If you ever get the chance you must visit; Jefferson, Madison and Washington's homes. Happy Memorial Day!

Linz

Tongue

2007-05-22T18:35:00.000-04:00

Water Bug has figured out how to stick out his tongue! Soooo cute!
Linz

Salt Water Marsh

2007-05-22T18:21:00.000-04:00

For our last science class, I took the kids to a salt water marsh. I handed out some information on marshes and some pictures of animals that can be found in a marsh. We had a great time walking the trails, looking for different animals and habitats.

Linz

A Mud City

2007-05-21T19:02:00.000-04:00

Some of our friends had a big mud pit in their backyard and invited our kids over to play. The kids built a big Mud City! They each had a job and a home. They had a lot of fun-MESSY-but fun!

Hilton Head Island

2007-05-11T09:42:00.000-04:00

In April we went to Hilton Head Island with friends. We had tons of fun! We visited a light house, a children's museum, went to the beach and swam at an indoor pool (everyday). The kids played basketball, baseball, soccer and tennis! They were so wiped out by the end of each day! The dads spent one day golfing and saw an alligator!! We enjoyed our week with our good friends and the time we spent together. I recommend Hilton Head to everyone--great place!
Linz

7 Months!

2007-05-11T09:37:00.000-04:00

Look how BIG Water Bug is! Time just flies when you are having fun!
Linz

Sledding Pictures

2007-02-26T21:00:00.000-05:00

Lightning Bug Is The Star!

2007-02-26T20:54:00.000-05:00

Just put Lightning Bug's name in the white boxes (except for the boy bugs--thay would be Wheel and Jitter Bug).

Yummy Chocolates

2007-02-14T18:14:00.000-05:00

Doesn't she look happy!? Can you tell what this little Ladybug is doing? She is licking the filling out of her chocolates! For supper Dad and I put a box of chocolates for each kid in their bowl. They were so excited when they came for supper! We had homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with crescent rolls on the side. Not a typical Valentines supper but it's what they wanted. June Bug popped out of his room, only after 6 min. of cooking, and said mmmmmmmmm I thought I smelled something good! He is always my biggest fan when it comes to my cooking (besides Dad :))!!
Happy Valentines Day everyone!
Linz

Star Of The Week

2007-02-12T22:55:00.000-05:00

This week our family started a new tradition. We call it Star of the Week. Each week someone will be chosen to be the Star for that week. To be chosen you need to show STAR qualities (helpful, kind, try something new etc). The STAR will be honored on Family Night with a certificate and sign on their door saying, There Is A Star In Here! It is then the Star's job to appoint the next weeks Star and write about what they did. I hope this helps each of us to strive to be better to those around us and to appreciate what each of us do as a member of our family. Keep a lookout for next weeks STAR!
Linz

Family Night

2007-02-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

Every Monday night we have Family Night. We take turns planning the lesson, game, refreshments, song and prayer. This week it was June Bug's turn to make the refreshments. He made a Valentine cake. He has never made a cake all by himself before and he did a fabulous job! It tasted great too! Way to go June Bug!
Linz

Nice shot June Bug!

2007-02-12T15:21:00.000-05:00

Roll Over

2007-02-12T15:16:00.000-05:00

Something I just heard Ladybug say:

"EEEEEKK I just saw the baby roll over! YAY! Ha ha ha ha he is so good! First he was there and then he rolled over to there! He's so good at rolling over!"

Linz

Oasis

2007-02-12T15:06:00.000-05:00

Last week we talked about what an oasis is. We talked about how not only there can be an oasis in the desert but how our home is an oasis from the world. We then made an edible oasis. The kids had fun making them and EATING them too! :)
Linz

Seagulls

2007-02-02T22:56:00.000-05:00

Look what we saw in our yard this morning! We have never had seagulls in our yard (not even in our neighborhood)! We do get ducks all the time--which we love! Now the kids are excited about having seagulls! Sweet kids! :)

Linz

Crawfish Disection

2007-02-02T22:33:00.000-05:00

Doesn't he look like he's having fun?
Linz

A Day At The Children's Museum

2007-01-31T19:20:00.000-05:00

Stink Bug just got blasted by an air cannon!
Wheel Bug in the Bubble Room

June Bug and Water Bug on a Transit Bus

Light class #2

2007-01-30T16:38:00.000-05:00

In science today we talked about how a light bulb glows and did an experiment. We talked about concave and convex lenses and made our own with wax paper and water. We played "scientific term hangman," and used the scientific method to see if light curves or is straight, to see if light bounces and to see if light can be stopped. The kids had lots of fun and hopefully learned something too!
Linz

Our Littlest Student

2007-01-30T16:26:00.000-05:00

We are starting him early! :)

Worm Disection

2007-01-27T18:58:00.000-05:00

June Bug did his first worm disection earlier this month. He did it with our Homeschool Group and worked with a partner. By his picture you can tell he's having a great time!
Linz

Rembrandt

2007-01-26T23:13:00.000-05:00

Today was our first day of "art" since having Baby Water Bug. The kids are always drawing, painting or making crafts but today was our first organized (is that the right word?) art lesson. We talked about Rembrandt and studied his masterpiece: "Man With Helmet." We added new words to our Art Word Wall--monochromatic, shade and tint. We went over correct placement of the eyes, nose, mouth, ears and neck when drawing a face. The kids then drew portaits and painted them using only one color. Stink Bug did cry over having to paint the whole paper leaving no white showing. Jitter Bug cried that he couldn't make his face like mine but quickly got over it (mine was no masterpiece!). I had to keep telling him that whatever he did was great. In the end they looked GREAT! I'm looking forward to hanging them up! Next week we will be looking at Paul Klee's "The Goldfish."
Linz
the picture up top is all that was left when the kids were done

Baby Bug

2007-01-25T19:41:00.000-05:00

Baby Water Bug just hanging out!

Horse Feet

2007-01-25T16:06:00.000-05:00

Lightning Bug wrote a story today and I thought I would share. Enjoy!

I wish I had horse feet. I could beat my brothers and sister at a race. I would sit down funny. I could never draw. I could get goal at soccr very quickly. I could jump over a fence wich would be cool. The End

Light

2007-01-22T08:53:00.000-05:00

Last week was our science class. This month we are focusing on Light. It just so happened that it was Ladybug's turn to report on a scientist and she had picked Thomas Edison-perfect! With the older group Ladybug read her report to the group and the the kids looked up more info on him, wrote the info on a piece of paper and glued it to our Edison poster. The kids then wrote their new scientific words and we went over last months words. We did an experiment using opaque, translucent and transparent objects. Next we made viewers out of yogurt cups. We painted the inside black. When the paint dried we put a pin hole in the bottom and covered the top with wax paper and secured it with a rubber band. I took the kids into the bathroom, which Dad had darkened for us, lit a candle and put the viewers base up to the flame (about 20 inches away). What did the kids see? Try it out for yourself and find out.
In the younger group the kids read the Edison poster and a book called Light by Becky Olien. They wrote their science words (they can do anything with their science words--use them as spelling words, play memory...), we talked about reflection, why the sky is blue, where rainbows come from and we went into our darkened room took a flshlight (that had foil over it with a pin hole in it) and a ball. One kid took a ball while the other held the flashlight. The kid with the ball stood at an angle fom the one with the flashlight. Then the one with the light tried to hit the ball with the light (bouncing off the mirror), then they switched roles.
Both groups had lots of fun and so did I! I posted a picture of Ladybug reading her report-she put it on a roller box!
Linz

Crash!

2007-01-18T19:44:00.000-05:00

My oldest son, June Bug, received "Heelys" for Christmas from my parents. He was so excited and then realized they were too small (our 12 yr old is a giant with a size 10 1/2 foot ;) and when he puts his hand to mine his are an inch taller-and I have big hands...for a girl), Grammie and Grandpa sent them back and the new pair came last Friday. June Bug put them on and he looked like an expert immediately! He went to Homeschool Group wearing them and had lots of fun. That night the kids were all talking in the kitchen with Daddy and I and June Bug was just skating through us as we all talked. One of the kids stepped in front of his path, as he was coming through, just to tease him. They jumped out of the way at the last second to avoid being hit. At the same time, June Bug turned to avoid hitting them and slammed into the counter, flipped over and landed face first on the floor! We took him to the hospital and found out that he broke both bones in his left arm! He is our first kid to brake a bone! He is doing well although his arm still hurts. He is very independent and doesn't ask or take any help (except his chores :)). I find Stink Bug doing things and I'll ask him why he is doing it and he says that June Bug has a broken arm and needs my help. What a good little brother. Right now he is carrying up his brothers laundry and then he will be folding it so June Bug can go camping with the scouts. He still skates around with Heelys much to his Dad's dismay! New house rule: No Teasing Anyone While On There Heelys!
Linz

Getting Bigger!

2007-01-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to post an updated picture of our sweet baby! He weighs 16 1/2 pounds and is 14 weeks old! Time flies when you are having fun!
Linz

Chef Wheel Bug

2006-12-05T22:03:00.000-05:00

We have a budding chef! Almost every time I cook supper or bake cookies/pies Wheel Bug HAS to help. None of my other kids HAD to help coook at 2 and 3 years old. He has helped mke two appple pies, many batches of cookies, too many cakes to count and many other yummy foods. He loves to stir and measure ingredients. His newest venture.....creating new food concoctions. For lunch on Monday he made a pb&j with cheese sandwich! He ate the whole thing! I put up a picture of him measuring out m&ms for a batch of cookies, staring at himself in the mixing bowl, reading the recipe for supper to Mommy, rolling cookie dough in cinnamon and sugar and of course eating his pb&j with cheese sandwich! Such a sweet chef!

Linz

Halloween

2006-11-13T11:56:00.000-05:00

Ladybug was a Skeleton, Stink Bug was an Evil Jester, Lightning Bug was a Vampire, Jitter Bug was a Zombie and Wheel Bug was a Chicken. June Bug thought that he was too old to trick or treat so he stayed home and handed out candy.

Ladybug made ghost cupcakes (from scratch) all by herself for Halloween. She shared some with friends and her brothers and sister.

Poison Ivy

2006-10-19T11:38:00.000-04:00

We have not quite gotten back into our routine yet. I was planning on getting back into our "real" school work (sitting down at the table school work) on Monday but the boys got poison ivy. Yeah I know that does not sound like a big deal but it is spreading throughout the house. First June Bug got it then passed it to Stink Bug then on to Daddy then sadly to me. We have a two week old baby and his Dr. said it is dangerous for him to get it. We have been very careful from the begining--washed the sheets everyday, washing hands all day, keeping the boys off the sofa and away from everyone, keeping their towels in their room so no one else can accidentally touch their towels and STILL it is being spread! So I will try to get back to our normal schedule next Monday. In the meantime the kids play games, read, write in their journals and do some independant work. Does anyone have any ideas on how to stop the poison ivy from spreading?

Linz