In October, I took time to talk to our children about some of the personal ambitions they want to pursue. I am a strong believer in listening the voice of children, rather than completely dictating and controlling their destiny, (thanks Mom for that lesson).

After a little dialogue, I took note that some top interests for our children include the following:
  • Continue Swimming Lessons
  • Learn Animae and Japenese Language
  • Culinary Pursuits
  • Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist
  • Horse Trainer 
  • Technology & Gaming Creations
  • Becoming a Ninja

All these responses facinated me because I actually don't share any interest in these areas, however I support the vision of my children. If I inflict my personal goals, then the list would look more like

  • Author/Publisher
  • Herbalist/Natural Health Consultant
  • Educator
  • Entreprenur/Investor
  • Media Creator
  • Doula

Now that they've expressed their goal, it's important to implement a plan of action. This is an ongoing process and will require regular review. In the case of our children, we created a "plan" to achieve their vision. For example, in order to become a "ninja" it will take great discipline and determination. So, I signed all the boys up for martial arts at the YMCA. This program is not only affordable, it is also structured in a way that will expose the boys to the experience, yet it won't overwhelm our family. I can bring the girls along to practice swimming, while the boys are in training.

So far, the boys have all enjoyed the classes. I've seen such growth and maturity within the first few weeks of classes. I admit, it was a little to premature for our 4 year old Mason to be committed, however, Maxwell and Millennium have persevered and they are flourishing. Their confidence and skill is so rewarding to watch. Here are a few photos of Millennium working with the instructor:


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This book is one of the resources we're using for goal setting. I was introduced to the speaker, Lisa McInnes-Smith,  at the "PowerUp Live" convention in Boise.  

I can't express just how valuable it is to invest in inspirational resources that help to grow and develop good habits.

My hope in sharing is that you will hear the voice of your children and be prayerful about how you can support their vision.
 
 
I recently came across this Homeschooling Webinar and wanted to pass along the link about "Organizing Your Home for Success"...(Please share your thoughts about the discussion)
 
 
This week I was the annual Homeschool Convention for our state  less than 3 miles from our house ( https://www.chois.org/ )

Yesterday, I was able to give our children a modest budget and bring them to the used curriculum fair. To keep us unified and color coordinated, the girls managed to wear pink or red tops with jean skirts and the boys wore yellow button up shirts & jeans.   They all found great deals and even managed to bring home a little change.  

Today, I went to a couple workshops and I wanted to share notes from Michael Farris, founder of the Homeschool Legal Defense Fund ( http://hslda.org/  )   Michael is a happily married father of 10 and has been a homeschooling advocate with HSLDA since 1983. 

The workshop was entitled "Homeschooling Large Families."  There were many practical tips shared such as:
  • It's okay to take shortcuts - like using paper plates
  • Use your answering machine - protect your family from time stealers
  • Carefully choose your curriculum - it's most important to have a sane mother
  • Delegate Authority - give children responsibility
  • Have an outlet for metal respite - walking, sewing, reading, swimming, etc
  • One size of education doesn't fit all - children vary in learning styles
  • 1-on-1/2 time is very impactive - Michael would take a child to Sat. breakfast
One of the most profound statements, to me, that was made during this workshop was 'You're not raising children....You're not raising adults...YOU'RE RAISING PARENTS'

Our goal should be to raise capable parents, which will yield more than fruit, but an orchard, (according to Michael).  This will effect generations if we make this a goal.  One way to accomplish this is to model a good family through a strong marriage as the foundation.  


Hopefully, these little highlights will cause you to reflect upon your family and perhaps get a bit of inspiration and shine :)
 
 
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I'm a strong supporter of making education exciting through enrichment activities

This project is a very effective way to help learn to identify the Hebrew Alephbeyt.  Our children really benefit from this activity and I'm looking forward to making flashcards for Paleo Hebrew next.


/uploads/2/6/3/1/2631046/hebrew_transilteration_strips.pdf

 
 
We've done about 3 group Hebrew Study gatherings and I'm getting great feedback for editing and promoting the guides I wrote a few years ago.

Exploring the Alephbeyt 
http://exploringhebrew.weebly.com/uploads/3/6/1/0/3610819/exploring_the_alephbeyt_course_051610.pdf 


Hebrew for Newbies
http://exploringhebrew.weebly.com/uploads/3/6/1/0/3610819/hebrewfornewbiesdec2010.pdf 

I recently came across this site with a similar approach to learning the language:

http://www.onetorahforall.com/teachings/Hebrew%20booklet.pdf 


If you have any good FREE  links for learning the Hebrew language, please share.  Here are 2 more helpful links (also under the Resource tab)
www.hebrew4christians.com
www.akhlah.com

 
 
 
 
In an effort to promote physical endurance, I've requested our boys to "build a wall" in the backyard every day.

There are some cinder blocks and cement bricks that the boys  must carry across the yard and build the wall.  Each week, I plan to increase the number of bricks they are carrying so that over time they can strengthen their muscles and become more disciplined in physical activity.


Last week, was just a starter session and I may possibly video tape the process once they really get in the hang of it.

If you have any helpful suggestions for promoting excercise with limited supervision, please leave a reply (feedback always welcome) :)
 
 
I came across this video & learned a few new things about modern Hebrew.  This is exciting to me, since I've just embarked on the study in "Aleph Isn't Tough".
 
 
This was one of the most memorable "date nights" throughout our marriage....lol
(dancing lessons comes in second place.)

We had such a great time working on the nursery last week with a few of the children, I wanted to share some pics so you can catch the vision that we're a part of:
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Last week, our friend's son asked me: "When are we gonna do Hebrew School?"  This blessed me so much to know that he enjoyed and looked forward to our group Hebrew Studies each week. 

We've been meeting with a few children from our assembly at our house to study the culture, language and instructions in the Bible for about a month.  These gatherings are definately a highlight of my week!

Here's a link from one of the resources we used this week:

http://hennypenny.ourjunction.com/docs/otdocs/moses3.pdf

Here's a little glimpse into our studies....