We're approaching our 2 year blog anniversary, so I got a lil' itch to do a makeover to the site.....I hope you like it!

BTW, I haven't figured out how to upload the archives from '08-'09, but  I'm hoping to make them available before the year is over:-)

NOTE: If you aren't getting a clear picture of the website, then refresh your browser.

An easy day of rolling down the hills, playing winnie-the-pooh sticks, duck watching and simple family moments at the local park.

Overall I'm not a big fan of many kitchen accessories, but this little beauty which belongs to my friend is definatley on my list of kitchen investments.  Here's a link to a good ole fashioned shoppe with online purchasing options:

http://www.lehmans.com/store/Kitchen___Helpers_and_Accessories___Peelers_and_Pitters___Apple_Express_Clamp_On_Apple_Peeler___1079055?Args=

BTW, the recipe in the picture was "Grandma's Apple Carrot Raisin Salad"
A few apple chunks, shredded carrots, raisins & a sauce of mayo, sugar & a bit of vinegar!

I just came across this informative blog post about treating a stomach virus.  Hopefully, none of you are dealing with this right now, but just in case I thought I'd share:

http://grammas-herbal-remedies.blogspot.com/2007/02/stomach-flu-remedies.html

Our oldest son was doing his German lesson this morning and got an itch to check out the Greek Alphabet.  He came across this "groovy" song.

"Work ethic is a set of values based on hard work and diligence. It is also a belief in the moral benefit of work and its ability to enhance character......A work ethic may include being reliable, having initiative, or maintaining social skills."
(Source: www/answers.com)

Photos: Our two older boys helping some friends irrigate their fields

A few nights ago, a friend of mine referred to the Hebrew course that I've been working on as somewhat like 'Hebrew for Dummies'....lol. Obviously, this friend has been studying Hebrew for awhile :-)

This honest observation actually inspired me a bit.  Perhaps, I can begin referring to the course as "HEBREW FOR NEWBIES." (??) Initially, the course was intended to help other home educating families & a few curious adults that are interested in a simple approach to beginning to learn the Hebrew Language. So far, I've received good feedback from both groups. HalleluYah!

Well, after several months of producing the written course, now I'm on to producing an online video guide.  


Here is a sample of Unit 2:

Our friend just introduced us to a new way of preparing smore's.

INGREDIENTS: Graham Crackers, Nutella Spread, Marshmellow Creame (with a kosher "K")

This treat was a tasty alternative to using marshmelllows with gelatin (keep in mind that some products derive gelatin from the collagen of unclean animals.---just look for the circled "K")

Any yummy treats that you want to share??

I just thought I'd share a few "Thank You" pics the children have written to Farmer Mattie (see post:  http://www.joyfuljunction.com/1/post/2010/08/farm-life.html )

We're going strong with our summer schooling and it will be time for a short break in a few weeks.  In the meantime, I wanted to pass on a VERY simple form that my Aunt gave me, then I  adapted to fit our needs:

Rather than doing individual "Student Lesson Guides" like we do during the Fall/Winter, I've completely simplified our planning so that we have more creative freedom & more time to enjoy summer activities like swimming & other recreational activities.

Basically, as you see on the form, I have four rows listed with each student's weekly assignments.  We have more bookwork toward the beginning of the week, and more delight learning (like art, piano, sewing, etc.) toward the end of the week. Also, I prefer to schedule our field trips on Thursday or Friday so we get the school week off to a good start with minimal procrastination:-)


As I've mentioned before, simple planning makes a tremendous difference in our daily routine.  This form is in an Excel Spreadsheet so all I do is take approx 10-15min per week to update it, then print, then Viola....School is in Session.


Here's another form that helps keep the house running smoothly.  This one was created by my friend and we keep it posted in an easily visible location.  We've done very well keeping on track with daily routines by simple implementing a few time frames that we like to maintain:

If you want me to email a blank copy of the form, just drop me a comment :-)  (BTW, I'll post the more individualized student lesson guide in the near future.)