Chem lab-bonding

This lab wasn't as fun as our las candy bar lab. For this one we were investigating chemical bonds in household items. High school science is still completely possible with homeschooling.

Crafty Christmas

I'll let you all know a little secret.  As crafty as I am I HATE crafting with my kids. Between the huge age gap, 2 sensory defensive kids and different interest level it turns something I love into something I dread. Nothing is worse than a huge mess with a crying kid due to it being sticky and others frusterated that they cant get it just right like mine. 

I had an extra day off this weekend and had an extra nap so I got ultra courageous. And remembered that my attitude is most important and keep it simple. Here are the great ugly holiday sweaters they decorated.

Merry Christmas

Having a good attitude over activies

One thing I have struggled with the last few years has been Christmas. I will be the first to admit that I am a Scrooge. Between my mother dying and the falling out with my ex and getting pregnant, winter has never been a good time for me. I read a great quote the last few weeks and it has really got me thinking. Mommy’s ATTITUDE matters more than the ACTIVITIES. Original post I saw it on

Wow. My sanity, joy and patience with my children is more important than any craft, game or trip I could do with them.

This is constantly something I struggle with as I feel often that I am never doing enough with them. Between working full time and being stretched thin with therapies and my extreme  postpartum depression it turns it to a very rough season.

I have found some ways to reduce this year and just enjoy it.

After the 9th we are done with homework until after New Years. I want time to slow down and do crafts and baking.

We are doing Truth in the Tinsel but relaxed. If we get an ornament done then GREAT if not then its ok.

We are doing a "kindness fairy" as opposed to the Elf on a Shelf. Sally has appeared to come and remind our family to be kind this year.

Thanksgiving

 

We are a bit late but hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving! 

Truth in the tinsel- Day 1

 

So we are officially a Truth in the Tinsel family. I had been debating on it last year and it seems a good year to start the tradition. Nani had a great time doing the first craft for Light.

Catching Fire-

So I sent the teens this monday to go see Catching Fire with a few other homeschool girls. They said they met some new friends and had a great time being geeky, drooling over boys and comparing and contrasting the book. I counted it as a great experience for them.