Joy In Our Journey
  • Home
    • Disclosure Policy
    • About Me
  • What's New! (Blog)
  • Low-Carb Lifestyle!
    • Trim Healthy Mama-inspired Grocery Lists
    • THM-style Beverages >
      • Mock Starbucks Mocha Frappuccinos
    • Family Favorite Recipes (Not Low Carb) >
      • Snacks >
        • Delicious Homemade Gooey Granola Bars!
        • Healthy Peanut Buttery Treats
      • Soups and Stews >
        • Jamaican Seafood Chowder
        • Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
      • Salads >
        • Red Cabbage Coleslaw
      • Main Dishes >
        • Beef >
          • Beef Stroganoff
        • Chicken >
          • Chicken Fiesta
          • Chicken Nachos
          • Marinated Zucchini and Chicken Sandwiches
          • Chicken or Turkey Enchiladas
          • Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
          • Green Chili Chicken Lasagna
        • Lamb >
          • Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder
        • Seafood >
          • Chilled Quinoa and Salmon Salad (E)
          • Shrimp and Zucchini Tostadas
        • Pasta Recipes >
          • Baked Lemon Pasta
          • Paccheri (Pasta) with Cauliflower and Tomatoes
      • Desserts >
        • Cookies >
          • Free Christmas Cookie cookbook download!
          • Healthier Gingerbread Man Cookies
          • Healthier Holiday Cut-Out Cookes
          • Maple Leaf Cookies - YUMMM!
        • Donuts
        • Frozen Desserts >
          • Lemonade Ice Cream Pie
    • Recommended Ingredients and Foods >
      • Inspiration Mixes - Gluten/Dairy/Caseine/Wheat Free and delicious!
      • Organic Maple Syrup
  • Homeschooling
    • Homeschool Curriculum & Product Reviews >
      • Homeschool Curriculum Reviews >
        • Art >
          • ARTistic Pursuits
          • Simply Draw!
        • Grammar >
          • All About Homophones - (Marie Rippel)
          • Time 4 Learning
          • Daily Grams
        • Handwriting >
          • Cursive Handwriting - New American Cursive
        • History >
          • The Mystery of History >
            • MOH vol. 3 Audio MP3's
          • Tapestry of Grace History
          • U.S. History >
            • America, The Last Best Hope (William Bennett)
          • Winter Promise
        • Latin >
          • Latina Christiana, by Memoria Press
          • Visual Latin
        • Literature-based Unit Studies >
          • Beyond Five in a Row
          • Further Up and Further In by Diane Pendergraft
        • Logic and Reasoning >
          • Building Thinking Skills (Critical Thinking Skills Co.)
        • Math >
          • Math Mammoth
          • Math Tutor DVD.com
          • MathRider: Horselovers' Math Facts Software Game!
        • Music and Composers
        • Online Educational Courses >
          • Aleks Online Courses
        • Science >
          • Apologia Science >
            • Apologia Science's Notebooking Journals
            • Zoology 1 - Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day
          • Science Weekly newsletters
        • Spelling >
          • Phonetic Zoo (by IEW)
        • Writing >
          • The Write Foundation: Level 2 - Paragraphs
          • WriteShop's StoryBuilders
      • Homeschool Product Reviews >
        • eBooks >
          • College Success Begins at Home (TOS eBook)
          • Dreams and Designs—Homemade Supplies to Complement Your Homeschool
          • Help, Lord, I'm Getting Ready to Start Homeschooling My High Schooler!
          • The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner
        • Online Educational Website Memberships >
          • KB Teacher
        • Science >
          • Polymer Crystals
    • Driver's Education for Homeschoolers
    • Foreign Language >
      • Latin >
        • Christmas Songs in Latin
        • Latina Christiana (Level 1) >
          • Latina Christiana Level 1 Lesson Links >
            • Charts and Helps
            • Year One Sayings
            • LC1 Intro and Lesson 1
      • Latina Christiana (Level II) >
        • Latina Christiana Level 2
        • LC2 Intro and Lesson 1
    • Forms and Charts >
      • "Week At A Glance" Planner
      • 2012-2013 Homeschool Attendance Form
      • 2012-2013 Homeschool Attendance Form
    • Free Audio Books to Download
    • Free Homeschool I.D. Cards!
    • Government and Civics
    • Handwriting
    • History: Classical / Chronological >
      • The Mystery of History, by Linda Lacour Hobar
      • The Middle Ages (MOH vol. 2)
      • Ancient History (MOH vol. 1) >
        • Ancient Rome >
          • Roman Architecture
          • Roman Houses
          • Roman Town (software game by Dig-It)
          • Roman Trade and Commerce
    • Language Arts
    • Science
  • Free Printables
    • Holidays >
      • Christmas
  • Book/DVD/Audio Reviews
    • Children's Movie/DVD Reviews
    • Other Product/Company Reviews
  • Home & Family
    • Frugal Living
    • Gardening and Herbs
    • Marriage - God's Way
    • Life at Home
    • Godly Kids & Teens >
      • Godly Womanhood
      • Sharing God With Your Children
      • Training Our Daughters to be Keepers at Home >
        • Keepers At Home - "Beginning of Club Year" Helps
        • Keepers At Home - "End of Club Year" Helps
        • KAH Skills >
          • Bible Memory >
            • Memorizing New Testament Books and Their Meanings
            • Proverbs 31:10-31
          • Cake Decorating
          • Card Making >
            • Stitched Cards
          • Computers
          • Character Studies >
            • Contentment and "I'm Bored" phrases
            • Willingness
          • Decoupage
          • Hospitality
          • Library Skills and Literature Pins
          • Sewing >
            • Beauty and the Pig - Goldie Doll
            • Edwardian-Style Aprons
            • Paper Piecing
      • Children >
        • Bible Study Bookmarks
        • The Church History ABCs (for kids!!!)
        • The Lord's Prayer - copywork
        • Some Thoughts...Family Bible Time
        • Running Away...with permission
      • Young Adults (Teens) >
        • Stepping Heavenward, by Elizabeth Prentiss
        • Deeper Roots: Discovering Our Amazing God
  • Frugal Family Trips to Washington, D.C.
  • Home
    • Disclosure Policy
    • About Me
  • What's New! (Blog)
  • Low-Carb Lifestyle!
    • Trim Healthy Mama-inspired Grocery Lists
    • THM-style Beverages >
      • Mock Starbucks Mocha Frappuccinos
    • Family Favorite Recipes (Not Low Carb) >
      • Snacks >
        • Delicious Homemade Gooey Granola Bars!
        • Healthy Peanut Buttery Treats
      • Soups and Stews >
        • Jamaican Seafood Chowder
        • Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
      • Salads >
        • Red Cabbage Coleslaw
      • Main Dishes >
        • Beef >
          • Beef Stroganoff
        • Chicken >
          • Chicken Fiesta
          • Chicken Nachos
          • Marinated Zucchini and Chicken Sandwiches
          • Chicken or Turkey Enchiladas
          • Hungarian Chicken Paprikash
          • Green Chili Chicken Lasagna
        • Lamb >
          • Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder
        • Seafood >
          • Chilled Quinoa and Salmon Salad (E)
          • Shrimp and Zucchini Tostadas
        • Pasta Recipes >
          • Baked Lemon Pasta
          • Paccheri (Pasta) with Cauliflower and Tomatoes
      • Desserts >
        • Cookies >
          • Free Christmas Cookie cookbook download!
          • Healthier Gingerbread Man Cookies
          • Healthier Holiday Cut-Out Cookes
          • Maple Leaf Cookies - YUMMM!
        • Donuts
        • Frozen Desserts >
          • Lemonade Ice Cream Pie
    • Recommended Ingredients and Foods >
      • Inspiration Mixes - Gluten/Dairy/Caseine/Wheat Free and delicious!
      • Organic Maple Syrup
  • Homeschooling
    • Homeschool Curriculum & Product Reviews >
      • Homeschool Curriculum Reviews >
        • Art >
          • ARTistic Pursuits
          • Simply Draw!
        • Grammar >
          • All About Homophones - (Marie Rippel)
          • Time 4 Learning
          • Daily Grams
        • Handwriting >
          • Cursive Handwriting - New American Cursive
        • History >
          • The Mystery of History >
            • MOH vol. 3 Audio MP3's
          • Tapestry of Grace History
          • U.S. History >
            • America, The Last Best Hope (William Bennett)
          • Winter Promise
        • Latin >
          • Latina Christiana, by Memoria Press
          • Visual Latin
        • Literature-based Unit Studies >
          • Beyond Five in a Row
          • Further Up and Further In by Diane Pendergraft
        • Logic and Reasoning >
          • Building Thinking Skills (Critical Thinking Skills Co.)
        • Math >
          • Math Mammoth
          • Math Tutor DVD.com
          • MathRider: Horselovers' Math Facts Software Game!
        • Music and Composers
        • Online Educational Courses >
          • Aleks Online Courses
        • Science >
          • Apologia Science >
            • Apologia Science's Notebooking Journals
            • Zoology 1 - Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day
          • Science Weekly newsletters
        • Spelling >
          • Phonetic Zoo (by IEW)
        • Writing >
          • The Write Foundation: Level 2 - Paragraphs
          • WriteShop's StoryBuilders
      • Homeschool Product Reviews >
        • eBooks >
          • College Success Begins at Home (TOS eBook)
          • Dreams and Designs—Homemade Supplies to Complement Your Homeschool
          • Help, Lord, I'm Getting Ready to Start Homeschooling My High Schooler!
          • The 2010 Schoolhouse Planner
        • Online Educational Website Memberships >
          • KB Teacher
        • Science >
          • Polymer Crystals
    • Driver's Education for Homeschoolers
    • Foreign Language >
      • Latin >
        • Christmas Songs in Latin
        • Latina Christiana (Level 1) >
          • Latina Christiana Level 1 Lesson Links >
            • Charts and Helps
            • Year One Sayings
            • LC1 Intro and Lesson 1
      • Latina Christiana (Level II) >
        • Latina Christiana Level 2
        • LC2 Intro and Lesson 1
    • Forms and Charts >
      • "Week At A Glance" Planner
      • 2012-2013 Homeschool Attendance Form
      • 2012-2013 Homeschool Attendance Form
    • Free Audio Books to Download
    • Free Homeschool I.D. Cards!
    • Government and Civics
    • Handwriting
    • History: Classical / Chronological >
      • The Mystery of History, by Linda Lacour Hobar
      • The Middle Ages (MOH vol. 2)
      • Ancient History (MOH vol. 1) >
        • Ancient Rome >
          • Roman Architecture
          • Roman Houses
          • Roman Town (software game by Dig-It)
          • Roman Trade and Commerce
    • Language Arts
    • Science
  • Free Printables
    • Holidays >
      • Christmas
  • Book/DVD/Audio Reviews
    • Children's Movie/DVD Reviews
    • Other Product/Company Reviews
  • Home & Family
    • Frugal Living
    • Gardening and Herbs
    • Marriage - God's Way
    • Life at Home
    • Godly Kids & Teens >
      • Godly Womanhood
      • Sharing God With Your Children
      • Training Our Daughters to be Keepers at Home >
        • Keepers At Home - "Beginning of Club Year" Helps
        • Keepers At Home - "End of Club Year" Helps
        • KAH Skills >
          • Bible Memory >
            • Memorizing New Testament Books and Their Meanings
            • Proverbs 31:10-31
          • Cake Decorating
          • Card Making >
            • Stitched Cards
          • Computers
          • Character Studies >
            • Contentment and "I'm Bored" phrases
            • Willingness
          • Decoupage
          • Hospitality
          • Library Skills and Literature Pins
          • Sewing >
            • Beauty and the Pig - Goldie Doll
            • Edwardian-Style Aprons
            • Paper Piecing
      • Children >
        • Bible Study Bookmarks
        • The Church History ABCs (for kids!!!)
        • The Lord's Prayer - copywork
        • Some Thoughts...Family Bible Time
        • Running Away...with permission
      • Young Adults (Teens) >
        • Stepping Heavenward, by Elizabeth Prentiss
        • Deeper Roots: Discovering Our Amazing God
  • Frugal Family Trips to Washington, D.C.
Picture

Our Journey to Stainless Steel Water Bottles - EcoUsable

9/25/2010

2 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
This page contains affiliate links.


     Years ago, when plastic water bottles became all the "rage", my husband and I decided to not purchase them unless we were traveling and away from home on a long-distance trip.  It wasn't really because of any "green" factor; it was because they seemed expensive to us just for a drink of water.

     So, we purchased el-cheapo reusable plastic water bottles for the girls and I, and since my husband uses water bottles for backpacking and outdoor activities, he bought a Nalgene brand plastic water bottle. 

     We didn't know anything about the various types of plastics or which ones tend to "off gas" more than others.  To be truthful, when I began hearing about it, I didn't really care.  Still today, there are some things I care about, and others I don't.  At some point in my life, whether I make all of the "right" or "green" decisions or not, my body will wear out and I will die.  Not trying to be morbid or anything, but I'm the first to recognize my human frailty and needing to rely on God for any strength that He has given me. 

     Slowly though, over time, we did become a bit curious about even our Nalgene water bottles (we eventually all bought some) leeching plastic or chemicals into our drinking water when they were left in a hot car or out in the sun during outdoor activities.

     I've been interested in buying some decent, stainless-steel water bottles, but the good ones are quite expensive.  I'm not sure that the ones at the local Wally World are what I want to be using for my drinking water.

     So, copying my friend, Serena, I bought the girls and I some glass SoBe bottles, and washed them out well.  The girls and I began using these for our water bottles.  Elmer refused - it was too risky, in his mind, to be hiking or hunting with glass.  I don't blame him...but I just couldn't come up with any other options.
Picture
     Toward the end of August, my family received four very nice stainless steel water bottles from EcoUsable.  This company has been around for some time now, and they are a reputable business. 

     When our box arrived from EcoUsable, I noticed right away that the person who packed the shipment paid attention to how many people were in my family, and picked out water bottles that he or she felt were appropriate for our ages, genders, and activities.  That says a lot!

     These are the water bottles which arrived in our shipment:
Picture
This model is no longer available.






Pink Butterflies - 10 oz.
(for my youngest daughter)

  • holds 10 fluid ounces (295 ml)...a bit small for a ten-year-old, but we can always refill it, right?
  • measures 6" H x 2.56" W
  • weighs 3.5 ounces

Picture






Purple - 16 oz.
(for my oldest daughter)

  • holds 16 fluid ounces (473 ml)
  • measures 8.5" H x 2.56" W
  • weighs 4.5 ounces

Picture







Garden Flowers - 33 oz.
(for me)

Picture
with Flower Power water wrap
  • holds 33 fluid ounces (975 ml)
  • measures 11.75" H x 2.56" W
  • weighs 4.5 ounces

Picture






White "Big Dipper" - 25 oz.
(for my husband)

  • Holds 25 fluid ounces (757 ml)
  • Fits ech2o replacement filter for fresh water on the go - even from ponds and streams!
  • Wide mouth opening fits ice cubes
  • New curve-shaped bottle for comfort and style
Picture
with Camoflauge water wrap

     We've been using our new stainless steel water bottles out and about, around town, for a few weeks.  Last weekend, we were in the eastern part of our state, about a six-hour drive from our home, and it was really nice to see that the water tasted as fresh and clear when we arrived at our destination as it did when we poured it directly from our Brita pitcher into the water bottles earlier that morning.  Nice!

     Here is my family's "take" on EcoUsable water bottles:

Likes:
  • lightweight
  • easily portable with included belt clips
  • easy to wash and keep clean, although they need to be hand washed
  • curved styles fit easily into our hands
  • many cute or manly or teen colors and styles, plus appropriate wraps
  • keeps water relatively cool over time
Dislikes:
  • when washing bottles in hot, soapy water, they become hot enough to feel uncomfortable.  I recommend using dish gloves, or just touching the top rim and the outside bottom rubber base while rinsing bottles clean
  • we noticed that the sip/pour spouts were a bit on the noisy side during use.  Just don't use them during a funeral, and you should be fine!  :)
    
    Other than the very hot bottles while rinsing, we have had no complaints!  The rimmed lip makes it easy from which to drink.  The rubber pad on the bottom of the bottles keeps them more stable and prevents damage to nice tables, etc. 

     Below is some additional information about EcoUsable's bottles, especially the Ech2o filtering bottle which purifies stream, lake, and pond water to kill all stomach-problem bacteria.
     Enjoy filtered tap water "on the go" instantly filtered as you drink through the ech2o sport top! This exclusive top removes up to 99.99% of pollutants for up to 100 gallons* of great tasting filtered water. Designed to fit our NEW Ech2o filtered water bottles.

ONLY compatible with 25 oz. Ech2o™ water bottles.


The Ionic-Adsorption Micro-Filtration System is an entire water filtration plant within a portable bottle. The patented Ionic-Adsorption Micro-Filtration reduces up to 99.99% of the following zones of contamination:
  • Aesthetics: unpleasant taste, odor, clarity, chlorine, sand, sediment and Radon 222.
  • Biological: Pathogens such as cryptosporidium, giardia & other cysts and spores.
  • Chemicals: toxic chemicals, detergents, pesticides and other harmful industrial and agricultural wastes.
  • Dissolved Solids: heavy metals such as aluminum, asbestos, copper, lead, mercury and others.
Features
  • fits 25 oz. Ech2o stainless steel water bottles
  • one hand operation
  • high flow of liquid
  • removes up to 99.99% of pollutants as you drink
  • drink from tap water, streams, rivers, lakes and pools
  • filters everything but salt water
  • 100 gallon capacity - 378 liters
  • replaces up to 757 half liters of bottled water

Exclusive filter tested by independent governmental laboratories to EPA/ANSI protocols and NSF Standards 42 and 53.

* Approximately 6 months of use.
     My family also received the following accessories to accompany our new water bottles:
  • fits 10 oz., 16 oz., and 33 oz. bottles
  • one hand operation
  • high flow of liquid
  • great for kids and adults on the go
  • made from safe, non-leaching polypropylene
  • dishwasher safe

     In addition, we received one shoulder strap which uses velcro to wrap around the top of the bottle. 
Picture
The Fine Print:  I received these EcoUsable water bottles and accessories free of charge in exchange for my time in writing an honest review containing my own opinions.  No other compensation was provided.
2 Comments

Schleich Animal Figures

9/24/2010

0 Comments

 
Picture
This blog post contains affiliate links.

    Two years ago, our family was introduced to Schleich animal figures while I was a member of the TOS Crew.

     I think I had seen Schleich products in stores before, like our local farm stores in town, and possibly at Target when we were out of town. 

     This summer, we were pleased to receive a new shipment of Schleich animal figures to enjoy and review, again as a part of the TOS Crew. 

     Once again, the girls were excited to see such nice products arrive for our family.  My older daughter is  a bit too old to "play" with toys like this; she actually hasn't played with toys for years and years now, except for items like wooden shields and swords that my husband has made for the girls (and for boys who come over to visit!).  She's the bookworm and musician...

     However, the two girls enjoyed reenacting and playing with the animal figures for some time.  And, they have treasured status as staying out on their very small table in their bedroom.
Picture
     Schleich figures are more expensive than the average "dollar store" figures. 
Picture
African Elephant
     However, one close look at Schleich's products will quickly show you why their products cost more than the average little plastic figures found anywhere.
Picture
     Schleich's animal figurines and imaginative playworlds have had the original mold "precision engineered" by a German master craftsman who works on the finest details for up to six weeks.  After the figures have been manufactured using the precision molds, they are all painted by hand.  Each toy is unique, durable, and safe for your children.
Picture
Dartmouth Pony
 
    Over 500 items are available to view at the Schleich website:  www.schleich-s.com

     Schleich has three main categories for their figurines:

World of Nature:

Picture



World of History:

Picture



World of Fantasy:

Picture
     The prices for Schleich figurines will vary depending on the size of the item and from where you purchase them.  They can range from $3.00 to $30.00 or possibly more.

     My adult Sunday Bible study group at church wanted to bless missionary friends of ours who were going to be traveling across the country to a new assignment for the next couple of years.  This dear family has five children, and because of their frequent moves from place to place and country to country to country, they are very selective about which toys they purchase and keep for their children. 

     When they were living in Germany a number of years ago, they discovered Schleich toys, and they decided that these would be fine to keep and travel with because of their high quality.  Our adult class at church purchased a number of Schleich animal and dinosaur figures for them before they moved back east, so that during the trip, the children would have little gifts to unwrap and enjoy along the way. 

     When I went through the checkout line, the checker started scanning the Schleich animals and said, "Wow - I didn't know that a plastic cow could cost $5.00!"

     I told him about the products, explained who they were for, and why we were purchasing high quality toys that wouldn't take up tons of room in a backpack or on a plane.  He thought that it was a great idea, and he did agree that the Schleich toys were much better quality than anything he'd seen in quite some time.

     If you'd like to take a look at Schleich's 178-page catalog, you may view it below.  Schleich figurines are often sold at Fred Meyer, Target, and Toys "R" Us, as well as farm supply stores and other places.  They are a great idea for Christmas gifts, especially for children who have been taught to take care of their toys.  Ours will be handed down to our grandchildren - their quality is that nice.
Picture

0 Comments

Stepping Heavenward - Bible study for girls and women

9/21/2010

0 Comments

 
Picture
This blog post contains affiliate links.

     "How dreadfully old I am getting! Sixteen!"

     Thus begins the lifelong diary of young Katherine as she pours out her hopes, dreams, and spiritual journey on the pages of her dear. old journal. Whimsical and charming Katherine is engagingly candid about her character flaws and her desire to know God.

     As you listen to her share her heart through these journal entries, you will be amazed and delighted by the depth of her character and the womanly wisdom and godliness she develops over the years.

     From the agonies of being a teenager to the delicate balancing act between being a wife/mother/daughter/neighbor, it is easy to relate to Katherine's triumphs and trials whether you are 16 or 60. Listen to her unforgettable story set in the early 1800's as you are encouraged to "step heavenward," and don't be surprised if you find yourself recommending it to all of your friends and family!


    Stepping Heavenward is one of the most beneficial books I've read to my daughters so far.  There is so much depth in this book, even though it is slightly old-fashioned.  The biblical principles contained in this book are definitely timeless!



Picture
    I've also found an accompanying Bible study to go along with reading the book:  Stepping Heavenward:  A Bible Study Based on the book by Elizabeth Prentiss.  Working slowly through this guide as we read the book has definitely had a lot of benefits!
 
    I'm including the printed PDF version of Chapter 1 here, as well as two different audio players containing Chapter 1.  Please let me know if you have difficulty accessing any of these. 

     Also, you'll see a 90-day program for individual use and helps women have daily devotions by doing assignments like prayer, writing in a journal, reading the Bible and reading portions from the book, Stepping Heavenward. It is a neat companion devotional tool that can be used to accompany a reading (or hearing) of Stepping Heavenward. 

     Thank you, Mrs. White of The Legacy for Home,for allowing us to share your personal Bible study journaling PDF that accompanies Stepping Heavenward.



Chapter One:



Audio version:




Personal Bible study journaling PDF that accompanies Stepping Heavenward:

     If you aren't able to get the above player to work, you can listen to and download the audio chapters of Stepping Heavenward here:
Picture
Picture

0 Comments

Sarah's Wish: Book Reflections by Julieanne

9/9/2010

0 Comments

 
Picture
This post contains affiliate links.

      Jim Baumgardner has written a trilogy of books about a girl named Sarah.  I have been blessed to be able to receive all three of his Sarah books to read and review here for you!

     Sarah is a 12-year old girl who is going through a very difficult time in her life; she is grieving over the loss of her mother.  Her father passed away when she was too young to remember, so now she is an orphan.
      Sarah's story is full of trials and blessings.  She is courageous, and she strives to live a godly life and be a girl of truth.  There is a lot in this book that shows a positive role model for girls being raised in godly Christian homes.  I recommend this series of books by Jim Baumgardner.

Picture
Sarah's Wish
    Enter The 19th Century World Of Sarah And Her Friends...here is an excerpt From Chapter One:


The Accident

     It all seemed to have happened in one of those slow-motion moments. Actually, the horse heard it first-the rattle sound. The sound that leaves goose bumps on a big man’s neck. By the time the girl caught eye of it, Blackie had instinctively shied to the right.  

   “Snake!” Rachel pointed at the coiled serpent, its mouth gaping, fangs laid bare.

   Blackie bolted. The sudden jerk slammed Rachel against the seat, wrenching the reins from her hands. Immediately she reached for twelve-year-old Sarah. Careening wildly along the narrow lane they furiously clutched at the buggy seat.

   “Blackie!” Rachel screamed. “Whoa! Whoa, Blackie!”

   The frightened horse raced on at full gallop while the reins dragged the ground. Mother and daughter tightened their grip and waited for Blackie to run himself out.

   “Blackie!” Sarah screamed. “Stop, Blackie! Oh, please! Stop! Mama, I’m scared!”

   Rachel shrieked louder, “Whoa!”

   The lane curved sharply right, but the frantic horse dashed straight on. Ten feet into a meadow the buggy struck the outcroppings of a stump and shot Rachel down the seat smashing into Sarah. Flipping onto its side the buggy slammed the ground, digging in. Dirt and grass flew in all directions. Breaking loose from the splintered buggy, Blackie made a blue streak through the wild flowers and disappeared into the woods.

   The dust settled - silence...

Go to Audible.com and listen to an excerpt from Sarah's Wish!
    The audio book of Sarah's Wish contains 4 CDs with approximately 4 hours of audio listening, for $16.99 (includes shipping & handling). 

    Or, you may purchase the complete audio set containing all three Sarah books for $49.99 (includes shipping & handling).

     I enjoyed reading Sarah's Wish, and I think your daughters and sons will, too!
Picture
    In the interest of full disclosure, some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive an affiliate commission. I only recommend products I use personally. Your purchases through these links help support Joy In Our Journey. I humbly thank you for your support.

© Julieanne Miller 2013

0 Comments

Math Tutor DVDs: TI-84 Calculator...and Pre-Algebra

9/8/2010

3 Comments

 
Picture
This post contains affiliate links.


     If you haven't heard of Math Tutor DVDs by Jason Gibson, and you are teaching math to your children at home, you are missing out! 

http://www.mathtutorDVD.com

     Two years ago, I was privileged to be able to use and review some Math Tutor DVDs in our home, and now I've been using and reviewing two additional Math Tutor DVDs:  The Texas Instruments TI-83/TI-84 Calculator Tutor, and the Pre-Algebra Tutor. 

     Once again, I wasn't disappointed in what I saw.
Picture


The Texas Instruments TI-83/TI-84 Calculator Tutor

     When I was in high school, we completed all of our graphics in Algebra II and Trigonometry on our own, on graph paper, no less!  But most classrooms these days require students to own a TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator.  I wouldn't have any idea how to operate a calculator like this, since I never needed to use one in my advanced math classes in high school.

     I was very thankful to see that Jason's explanations were easy to understand and simplified for even moms like me who haven't touched advanced algebra for over 20 years!

This product contains 3 DVDs with a total DVD Run Time of 8 Hours.

Disk 1
Section 1: Overview of the Calculator
Section 2: The Mode Menu
Section 3: Basic Arithmetic and Exponents
Section 4: Logarithms and Square Roots
Section 5: Sin, Cos, Tan
Section 6: Scientific Notation and Storing Variables
Section 7: The Math Menu and Catalog Menu
Section 8: Convert between Fractions and Decimals
Section 9: Finding the Min and Max of a Function
Section 10: Calculating Derivatives and Integrals
Section 11: Absolute Value, Rounding, and Integers
Section 12: Converting between Degrees and Radians
Section 13: Working with Complex Numbers


Disk 2
Section 14: Using the Equation Solver
Section 15: Graphing and Tracing Functions
Section 16: Using Tables and Split Screen Modes
Section 17: Find the Exact Value of a Function Using Graphing
Section 18: Finding the Zeros of a Function using Graphing
Section 19: Finding the Max and Min of a Function using Graphing
Section 20: Finding Intersections of Functions using Graphing
Section 21: Finding the Derivative of a Function by Graphing
Section 22: Calculating the Definite Integral by Graphing
Section 23: Drawing on a Graph
Section 24: Graphing and Tracing Sequences


Disk 3
Section 25: Graphing and Tracing Parametric Equations
Section 26: Converting between Rectangular and Polar Coordinates
Section 27: Graphing and Tracing Polar Equations
Section 28: Permutations, Combinations, and Factorial
Section 29: Working with Histograms and Box Plots
Section 30: Graphing Statistical Scatter Plots
Section 31: Calculating Mean, Median, Standard Deviation, and more
Section 32: Performing Statistical Regression
Section 33: Calculating with Matrices
Section 34: Solving Systems of Equations with Matrices
Section 35: Calculating Interest Rates
Section 36: Calculating Mortgages and Loans
Section 37: Calculating Savings and Investments


    This eight-hour comprehensive three DVD course teaches you how to use all of the major functions of the TI-84 / TI-83 graphing calculator by working example problems.  In this way, the student "learns-by-doing" rather than a long dry lecture or with the "aid" of a dry printed manual.

Picture
    In addition, the Math Tutor website (www.MathTutorDVD.com) offers free TI-84 calculator functions that would normally require a graphing calculator...so that you won't necessarily have to purchase one for your child.  Here they are:

Plot a Function Online!
Solve Equations Online!

Solve System of Eqns!

Solve Integrals Online!

Definite Integrals Online!

Take Derivatives Online!
Picture

The Pre-Algebra Tutor

     Our oldest daughter is beginning Pre-Algebra this school year.  So far, the transition to Pre-Algebra hasn't been too difficult, because the curriculum we use for our math studies has contained elements of pre-algebra since its lowest level. 

     However, we began watching the Pre-Algebra Tutor this summer, to give her a taste of what she will be learning this school year.  She found Mr. Gibson's presentations to be interesting and understandable.  I like that! 



Here are two samples of the Pre-Algebra Tutor:

    In addition to being able to purchase math DVDs at MathTutorDVD.com, families can also become a member at MathTutorDVD.com for a reasonable monthly fee which is far less expensive than hiring a "real" math tutor:

  • View all Courses Online 24/7
  • Over 170 hours of math tutorials
  • Download Worksheets
  • View Unreleased Courses
  • Discussion Forums
  • Save 25% on all DVDs!

    Members are billed $19.95 every 30 days.  You may cancel anytime you wish from within the members area.

https://www.mathtutordvd.com/public/5.cfm

Save On Shipping - Purchase Multiple DVDs!
You only pay S&H on the 1st DVD.  All additional DVDs in the same order ship for FREE.

     My favorite things about the Math Tutor DVDs we've used so far are that they are clear, concise, and he speaks clearly without rushing things. 

     We will most likely be purchasing additional Math Tutor DVDs to accompany our math curriculum as the years go by.  It is really nice to know that this kind of resource is available for homeschooling families, and for families whose children attend public or private schools but just may not be fully understanding their math classes.  I also appreciate the full money-back guarantee if someone isn't satisfied with the DVDs they may have purchased. 

     MathTutorDVD.com has a lot to offer our children when it comes to diving deeper into math concepts or watching to learn the basics.

Picture

    In the interest of full disclosure, some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I receive an affiliate commission. I only recommend products I use personally. Your purchases through these links help support Joy In Our Journey. I humbly thank you for your support.

3 Comments

Still House Pond - Book Reflections by Julieanne

9/6/2010

0 Comments

 
Picture
This blog post contains affiliate links.

     Lilly Gray Corbett loves living on Troublesome Creek, but she would much rather play with her best friend than watch her little brother and the twins. Her mama, Copper, is often gone helping to birth babies, and Lilly has to stay home. When Aunt Alice sends a note inviting her to visit in the city, Lilly is excited to go, and Copper reluctantly agrees to let her. Later, when they hear the news that the train crashed, Copper and her husband, John, rush to find out if their daughter is injured . . . or even alive.
Picture
     I just finished reading Still House Pond this weekend, and I really enjoyed it! 

     When I read the summary, above, I wondered at first whether this was truly a book for children or adults?  The summary sounded like a book for children, much like one of the Little House on the Prairie books, but its category was in adult fiction.  Hmmm.

     Well, I dove in a few weeks ago when I received Still House Pond, and even though I wasn't able to read the book every day, I always looked forward to the snatches that I read each time I had the opportunity.

     If you are interested in pioneer medicine and old-fashioned remedies, or midwifery and the miracle of birth, you will enjoy Still House Pond. 

     Several stories intertwine, making this an interesting read.  I didn't get bored at all! 

     Would I recommend this for your daughters?  Still House Pond did contain a scene where one of the girls in the story is roughed up by a man with whom she should not  have been flirting.  While she is left mostly intact, physically, her heart is crushed with her foolishness and the evilness of the man she dared to spurn.  You would want to read the book in its entirety for yourself before approving this for your daughter. 

     Still House Pond is written from a biblical perspective, and biblical lessons are gently woven throughout the pages.  I enjoyed reading about the trials and triumphs of the main characters, and I think you will, too.

     Here is chapter one from Still House Pond, to help you determine whether or not this would be a "good read" for you and your family:
Picture


     Jan Watson won the 2004 Christian Writers Guild Operation First Novel contest for her first novel, Troublesome Creek. Her other awards include a nomination for the Kentucky Literary Award in 2006 and second place in the 2006 Inspirational Readers Choice Contest sponsored by the Faith, Hope, and Love Chapter of the Romance Writers of America.

     Willow Springs
and Torrent Falls are the sequels to Troublesome Creek. Jan was a registered nurse for 25 years at Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. She incorporated her nursing experience in the hospital's mother/baby unit into her novels. Jan resides in Kentucky.
Picture
Disclosure:  Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of Still House Pond in exchange for my personal review of this book.

0 Comments

Responding to Those Who Don't Support Your Decision to Homeschool?

9/6/2010

5 Comments

 
Picture
Brittany (age 10); Kelsi (age 13)
     When we began homeschooling our two daughters eight years ago, we decided to educate them at home on a year-by-year basis.  If what was happening at home was positive and beneficial, we'd continue it to the next year. 

     If it wasn't, we'd make a different decision.

     Thankfully, it was a positive, God-blessed school year.  I'm so glad that we continued on!

     Teaching preschool and kindergarten in our home was such a blessing.  We decided to continue teaching the girls at home for their elementary grades.  I invested huge amounts of time looking online (using dial-up internet, of all things, back then!) to research curricula options.  I had more time than money, and I literally couldn't afford to make a poor choice on curriculum and then have to buy something else halfway through the school year.

     As we began educating our oldest in kindergarten, there were concerns and gasps of surprise among some of our friends and relatives. 

     I expected that to happen, although I didn't really know how to deal with it.  There are teachers on both of the sides of our families, so we knew possibly some of the educators would be opposed to what we were doing.

     Thankfully, even though many of our friends and relatives were very unsure - and maybe disliked - what we were choosing to do, they were all polite to us.  What they may have said when we weren't around isn't known to me, but  I don't have time to worry about things like that.

     What do you think was their main concern?

     For those of you who already educate your children at home, you probably could figure this out in one guess.

     Was it:

1.   How are you going to find a good curriculum to use with your children?

2.  How are you ever going to teach high school?!!!

3.  What about the high school Prom?

4.  How are your children going to succeed without a high school diploma?

5.  What about friends for your children, and socialization?

6.  How are you going to avoid burnout if you are spending 24/7 with your children?



Okay...what did you guess was the #1 concern? 

     Of course!  It was...question # 5!

     What about socialization?

     Many people were concerned that our daughters would grow up having no friends, no social skills, and no husband some day.

     I can't speak to the "husband" situation, but I can tell you how we handled the questions we received. 

     Many people didn't ask us anything.  Maybe they could tell we were totally set on our decision, so they were afraid to ask.  Maybe they were just polite.  But for those who did ask us questions, we tried to answer as politely as possible.

     I never remember being overly defensive toward our relatives when they asked us about homeschooling, but I do remember being defensive a few times when acquaintances at ballet lessons or other activities would hint around that we were shortchanging our children because we were teaching them at home.

     Over the years, I've learned to smile a lot and swallow my words frequently when asked the "typical" homeschooling questions.

     I've tried to remember to pray and ask the Lord for guidance when I know I'll be around someone who is abrasive about our homeschooling.

     However, over the years, I think most of our friends and relatives have seen enough good come from educating our daughters at home that they are no longer as negative as they might have been in the past. 

     They recognize that our daughters do have friends of their own, and they see our girls make new friends with ease when encountering new children in social situations.  That has placed many of their fears to rest.  They may be afraid of other things, but they haven't asked my husband or I about them - yet. 

     The next time someone is not supportive of our homeschooling decision and is agreeable to discussing it, I'd like to chat with them about the answers to the many questions a lot of people have asked.


     If you have friends or relatives who are very negative about the education you have chosen for your own children, whether it be home schooling, private school, or public school...

SMILE!

PRAY for wisdom and guidance on how to address people's concerns.

ANSWER with just a few words if the person tends to be overly critical and negative.

LET THE ACTIONS of your children speak for themselves.  Are your children polite?  Do they enjoy learning new things?  Do they interact well with good, godly peers?  Do they enjoy relating to people of all ages (younger children through elderly adults)? 

DON'T FRET about the comments people have.  Life is too short to stress out about those kinds of concerns.

TAKE THE GRAIN OF TRUTH from what they have asked you.  If they have complained about the lack of a routine to your day or your children having no outside friends other than your own nucleus family, think about what has been said.  Maybe there is a grain of truth that will apply for your own family situation. 

SHAKE IT OFF.  Don't hold a grudge; life is too short!  Ask them to pray for your family, if that is appropriate. 

SHOW THEM that home education isn't just an educational choice; it's a family lifestyle.  The children/parent relationship is #1 next to our relationship with God, and it should be protected at all costs. 

LET THEM SEE the results as the years go by.  Your negative criticizers will virtually disappear after a few years of seeing healthy, happy children being educated and brought to adulthood. 


Picture

5 Comments
    Picture

    ​​Hi!  I'm Julieanne!
    You'll find me in the kitchen
    ​trying new 
    Trim Healthy Mama recipes, loving God, and carrying out that love as I bless my husband and teen daughters. ​


    Find
    Joy In Our Journey on:


    Sign up to receive
    Joy In Our Journey's
    latest blog posts, freebies, and more!

    You won't want to miss my FREE "Trim Healthy Mama-inspired" recipes, tutorials, giveaways, and deals - get them delivered fresh to your inbox!

      
    Picture
    Picture
        I'd love to share your product with my readers.  If you would like me to do a review and giveaway, just contact me via email and let me know how I can help.


        Disclosure: Some content includes links to sponsors or affiliates, which give me a small percentage of the sale without costing you anything extra. You are not obligated to use these links when you make a purchase, but when you do so, it helps to support this site, so thank you!
     

     

    Search
    Joy In Our Journey

    Loading
     

    Archives

    December 2016
    August 2015
    July 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    October 2012
    September 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012
    June 2012
    May 2012
    April 2012
    March 2012
    February 2012
    January 2012
    December 2011
    November 2011
    October 2011
    September 2011
    August 2011
    July 2011
    June 2011
    May 2011
    April 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    January 2011
    December 2010
    November 2010
    October 2010
    September 2010
    August 2010
    July 2010
    June 2010
    May 2010

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
Photos from jaakko.hakulinen, theglobalpanorama, Sarah Korf, jeffreyw, crayonmonkey, Joshua Singh, Sam Howzit, kimberlyac, miggslives, rust.bucket, Derick Leony, Big D2112, Violette79, Andrea.Pacheco, youngthousands, niiicedave, mommyknows, Dominic's pics, sleepyneko, madaise, Daquella manera, Arild Andersen, TounoTouji, jchapiewsky, dennis, cooper.gary, supersum (off), advisorymatters, Nomadic Lass, Effervescing Elephant, ralph and jenny, alubavin, brendan-c, ImNotQuiteJack, jeffreyw, iamlemonfilm, Colin_K, Andrew Michaels, ivoryelephantphotography, bennylin0724, Jo Naylor, daveoratox, f10n4, Bludgeoner86, Ack Ook, BiblioArchives / LibraryArchives, pylbug, limaoscarjuliet, Barbara L. Hanson, CapitalK buy design, Vibragiel, matthiasxc, Podknox, qnr, Sadie_Girl, ComputerHotline, pppspics, Anna Loverus, Joi, Rob.Bertholf, Sheyla Ruiz, nachans, ♥serendipity, IsaacMao, *cart-wheels*, TRFPhotography, vxla, lisaclarke, Missouri History Museum, doortoriver, sunshinecity, anna gutermuth, USCPSC, L. Allen Brewer, bluebirdsandteapots, ell brown, vestman, *PaysImaginaire*, mightyohm, Lars Plougmann, Alex_Lewis116, yoppy, HealthGauge, 401(K) 2013, aprilandrandy, Ben Sutherland, Mason Masteka, WillowGardeners, MStewartPhotography, “Caveman Chuck” Coker, kodomut, DanCentury, TrishaLyn, Katie@!, Looking Glass, Nicholas_T, Francis Storr, Allie_Caulfield, Creative Tools, Aidan Jones, Tim Brown Architecture, HerryLawford, Brett Levin Photography, Gudlyf, Chocolate Reviews, greggoconnell, EmilyWhitwam, Phú Thịnh Co, ilovememphis, cliff1066™, Chi King, erix!, Tony Fischer Photography, GlasgowAmateur, ktylerconk, cfourcalvin, David Locke, blhphotography, dominiqs, quinet, stevendepolo, surlygirl, guzzphoto, mikebaird, rich701, coolmikeol, procsilas, • Happy Batatinha •, pmarkham, Luz Adriana Villa A., LisaW123, fireballsedai, CJS*64, gagilas, Christian Haugen, freddie boy, tausend und eins, fotografik, roland, nedradio, makelessnoise, Salvation Army USA West, TheAlieness GiselaGiardino²³, Arenamontanus, 401(K) 2013, f_mafra, trippingbobcat, brooklyn, Viajar24h.com, yanajenn, jamieanne, hardworkinghippy, ccharmon, eofstr, Julia Manzerova, jhoc, Orin Zebest, battlecreekcvb, jmrodri, trekkyandy, timsnell, Salil Wadhavkar, ewen and donabel, Ted Van Pelt, David Paul Ohmer, Kevin May, CCAC North Library, I_Nneska, AlphaTangoBravo / Adam Baker, dwstucke, Bonnie B., elise.y, Bill Selak, sam_churchill, JD Hancock, olga.palma, cbr_case, acme, alyak, creating in the dark, TrishaLyn, jacilluch, hans s, cwwycoff1, Karen Roe, AlexiUeltzen, surrelmar, Jeff Kubina, rich701, adie reed, pacificbro, dwstucke, rharrison, avlxyz, Jim, the Photographer, Danndalf, storebukkebruse, rodaniel, dicktay2000, exfordy, torres21, Mr. T in DC, avlxyz, andrealindenberg, HarshLight, stevendepolo, publicenergy, Jan Tik, aechempati, ume-y, xfce, Pink Sherbet Photography, nlian, bittle, bradleygee, rs-foto, JamieDrakePhotos, SimonDoggett, slopjop, Norman B. Leventhal Map Center at the BPL, BozDoz, GoRun26, prettyinprint, WTL photos, Minnesota Historical Society, www.bluewaikiki.com, stevendepolo, LibAmanda, jspatchwork, Jinx!, ncmichael2k3, Clevergrrl, michaelkmak, Generationbass.com, Dougtone, roger4336, slgckgc, twicepix, lisatozzi, Lee Nachtigal, Kevin Lawver, brianfuller6385, jamieanne, quinn.anya, SupremeCrete, StockMonkeys.com, OliverN5, jeffreyw, Muffet, krossbow, fdecomite, JeepersMedia, jimmiehomeschoolmom, Zanastardust, joyosity, frotzed2, szapucki, Vincent van der Pas, normalityrelief, Emily Carlin, Clevergrrl, allyrose18, sleepyneko, Jeff Kubina, efleming, Artman1122, notjustsquirrels, PhotoAtelier, roolrool, onnola, Charles Williams, greggoconnell, Highway Patrol Images, andrechinn, loop_oh, ayustety, toinerooijmans, vmiramontes, Claricethebakergardener, mind on fire, jimmiehomeschoolmom, Kat Johnston / Sanura Sakai, toinerooijmans, rfduck, stu_spivack, OmegaPoint, ingridtaylar, AdamSelwood, Gog Llundain, pbody