Watch the video below. Can you find Jesus hidden among the giant inflatables, mall Santas, and Christmas trees? Hmmm... is that what we do? Do we HIDE the reason for the season? Have we Forgotten Christmas?
Did you know after Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday today has been dubbed Giving Tuesday? You can visit the Forgotten Christmas website and get involved. You can purchase a gift that will truly change a life... a pair of chickens, Bibles, goats, sewing machines, water buffaloes, water filters, etc. In partnering with Gospel for Asia, 100% of the donations go towards the poorest, Forgotten People of South Asia - the Dalits.
Of course, don't limit yourself to Giving Tuesday. Consider getting your whole church, small group, youth group, etc. involved. A FREE Church Kit can be ordered. It includes a poster, the video, and Christmas catalogs to distribute. There are also additional videos on the website that can be show in your church.
Missions is something important to our family. Both my husband and I have had the opportunity to serve on mission teams and have traveled to Haiti, Mexico, Guatemala, and Ethiopia. It is our desire for the whole family to be able to serve together in missions at some point, so we strive hard to provide our children with a global perspective, understanding of the Great Commission, and a desire to serve both the physical and spiritual needs of others.
The Growing Up WildDVD series helps us to discuss missions with our children. The videos introduce us to the Wild family who serve as missionaries in Papua, Indonesia. It is the hope of the Wild family that each episode will not only educate children about present day missionary life but will raise up the next generation of workers for the field.
While the suggested age range for viewers is 5-12, our whole family enjoyed the videos. The DVD series could serve as a compliment to a homeschool and/or Sunday School curricula. However, the uses really are endless. You may consider showing the DVD's at your church during VBS, youth groups, summer programs, or special events. Private and Christian schools could incorporate the videos into their school day. Actually any setting where the audience could benefit from seeing the ins-and-outs of modern day missionaries would be perfect.
We recently reviewed Volume 1 and Volume 4 in the Growing Up Wild Series. They were a hit with my kiddos. They enjoyed learning about "a day in the life" of a missionary kid.
In Volume 1, viewers learn how a home is constructed, see some of the creatures of the night, find out how supplies are obtained, and discover how natural resources serve the Wild brothers in daily life. Volume 4introduces native wildlife, war and hunting, cultural life, and a tribal calling. The videos were informational, educational, entertaining, and inspiring.
Each volume contains three 15 minute episodes - perfect for my littles attention span. The short length allowed plenty of time for us to have discussions and complete follow-up activities. Accompanying each volume, there is a CD activity guide included. This guide offers families extension ideas designed to assist them in connecting with the Wild family, learning more about the world they live in, and challenging them to think globally. Click here to view a sample of the activity guide.
One of the activities we spent a considerable amount of time on was exploring different housing designs. We noticed different types of houses as we drove around town, but we also explored the houses constructed in other cultures and areas of the world. We pulled up pictures from our time in Ethiopia. While we were unable to travel to Jeremiah and Rachel's village, we did venture out of the capital city and head south. We were able to photograph homes that would have been similar to those they would have lived in. Jeremiah still has memories of his first home and was able to talk about the sleeping arrangements, cook house, and some of the construction materials.
The kids also made encouragement and thank you cards to send to missionaries we support. Rachel was in charge of the outside cover design. The boys (with some spelling help from Mom) wrote the letters to be glued inside. Below are Caleb's sweet words.
The Growing Up Wild collection would be a great addition to any homeschool. Each of the volumes retails for $18.99 + Shipping & Handling. The entire 5 DVD Series can be purchased at a 15% discount for $80.99 + Shipping & Handling.
I know our family enjoyed getting to know the Wild Brothers and getting a glimpse into their lives in Papua, Indonesia. We pray for their continued ministry. I would encourage you to get to know them as well! Other crew members are blogging about their experiences with Growing Up Wild. Read by clicking the button below.
Disclaimer: I was provided Growing Up Wild Volumes 1 & 4 in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
If you are in a homeschooling circle for any length of time at all, you will most assuredly here parents of older children raving about the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Founder, Andrew Pudewa, is an excellent, well-respected speaker and an expert when it comes to teaching students to write. Well, did you know that IEWdoesn't just cater to middle and high school students? In fact, there is a program designed specifically for K-2nd grade students - Primary Arts of Language.
To be completely honest, I was first introduced to the Primary Arts of Language program at a state homeschool convention a couple years ago. It was one of those events where you visited all the exhibitors in the vendor hall, had them sign off on your sheet of paper, entered the completed form in a drawing, and hoped to win a great prize. Like most people, I was excited when the person working the booth would quickly give me a signature and I could be on my merry way. Well, not the IEW booth, the lady was determined to give me an overview of the PAL program. I remember snubbing my nose at the whole system and walking away saying, "Yeah right... some homemade, crayon-colored file folder games and farm animals are going to teach my kids to read. Ha!"
Now I stand corrected, and I've completely changed my tune. Having had the opportunity to review and use the entire PAL program with my kiddos over the past month, I can't say anything bad about it. Actually, it will take great restraint not to write a ridiculously long blogpost and gush profusely about the wonderful product. I'm going to hit the highlights and share some of my favorite aspects, but to best understand and get a feel for the program, I suggest you watch a PAL introductory webinarled by the program author, Jill Pike. I've also posted a video below with Andrew Pudewa presenting a 12.5 minute overview of the program.
Primary Arts of Language is a comprehensive reading and writing program based upon Anna Ingham's Blended Sight-Sound Program of Learning. The reading portion of the program uses both phonics and whole words and the writing portion includes printing, copy work, composition, and spelling. Using PAL Reading and PAL Writingconcurrently, you will have everything you need to ensure your K-2nd grade children are reading and writing enthusiastically, confidently, and with excellence.
Units 1 & 2 in the K–2 Classroom MP3 Audio by Shirley George
Unit 3 in the K–2 Classroom MP3 Audio by Shirley George
Preparing the K-2 Writing Environment MP3 Audio by Richelle Palmer
(If each item was purchased separately, the cost would be $113.)
I definitely recommend purchasing both the reading and writing complete packages. When the box of goodies arrives on your doorstep and you open it, prepare to be a bit overwhelmed. There is definitely a lot to take in, but you are not left high and dry to fend for yourself. Most definitely, the very first thing you want to do is get comfy, grab your teacher's manuals, and pop in the DVDs. Jill Pike leads you step by step through both the reading and writing programs and gives very thorough explanations of all the materials and how to use them. Do not skip this very important step. It is the key to starting off with success.
When using the programs in tandem, the schedule for a typical day is as follows:
Poetry - Read the same poem for several lessons highlighting different letters, phonograms, punctuation, etc.
Class Journal - 2-3 sentences written in a notebook. Using a calendar, focus on writing the date.
Printing & Copywork - Letter Stories and printing practice.
Story Summary - Read a short story and identify the elements.
Foundations & Reader Words - file folder games and sight word practice
Phonetic Farm Tour - stickers on a farm scene to reinforce sounds/phonograms learned
Agenda/Work Period - worksheets based on the lesson of the day
Read Words/Sentences/Informal Spelling Test
I have actually been using this program with all three kiddos, but as expected, they are all on different levels. Rachel is still working hard to recognize letters and master basic sounds. She continues to struggle, so for her I'd definitely say that the letter stories have made a huge impact. The stories are cute and memorable, thus, she now has a trick to help her recall not only the sound of the letter but how to correctly write it. Because of the letter stories, both her accuracy and retention have improved.
Whereas Rachel is actually taking multiple days to complete one lesson, Jeremiah and Caleb have been able to blaze through the first portion of the program. While they have both known their letters and sounds for quite some time and been able to write them from dictation, I didn't entirely leap over the early lessons. There were some sight words that they were unfamiliar with, so we did run through those quickly and focused mainly on the file folder games for quick reviews.
I must say... the file folder games took the most prep work in the program. You can make the first ones and get started with the program and continue to create them as you go. However, I found it easier to spend a couple hours coloring, cutting, and assembling them all at once. Even though early on the games were rather easy for the boys, they still enjoyed playing... especially feeding MUGS and the MONSTER. The other great thing about the games is that the boys are willing participants when it is time for Rachel to play. Therefore, she is more motivated because she feels as if she is truly "playing with them" and "holding her own" as opposed to being bossed around and told what to do.
I think the boys really benefited from the class journal component of the program. Jeremiah became much more aware of the way a calendar operates and the passing of time. Caleb paid more attention to punctuation and grammar. In our early lessons, I did all of the journal writing. However, a couple weeks in, I was able to turn the pen over to the boys to write the words they knew and punctuate their sentences correctly.
Likewise, reading the stories together and focusing on analyzing the characters and story elements has been a fantastic addition to our homeschooling day. In the beginning, stories are provided in the teacher's manual. Then, you are able to incorporate literature of your own. Even outside of our time working with PAL, the kids are identifying the "clincher" in our read-alouds. I love when there is carry-over and follow-through in the course of any given day. That's how you know a curriculum is effective!
Finally, the writing portion of PAL utilizes All About Spelling. This is the spelling curriculum the boys have been using this year, so they were already familiar with and ahead in this area. They are definite fans of and benefit from the very tactile aspects of this program. The moving of the chips and the letter tiles on the magnetic whiteboard appeal to their learning styles. I was glad to see that PAL sees the value of this program as well.
Overall, I'm truly impressed with the Primary Arts of Language program. I definitely plan to continue using it with all three kiddos. Since it is such a gem, I expect to hold on to it to use with our new little one to come when she is ready. It is an excellent, well-designed, engaging program that produces tangible results as I've seen in just a short amount of time. Other crew members are seeing similar results. Read their reviews by clicking the button below.
Disclaimer: I was provided both PAL Reading and PAL Writingin exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Remember my post earlier this week about the Melissa & Doug Terrific Twenty List & Giveaway??? I hope you have liked their Facebook page and have been entering to win the daily giveaway item. Keep visiting because a new toy will be given away each day until Nov. 25th.
Now, as I eluded to earlier in the week, I'm hosting a GIVEAWAY right here too :-) The Melissa & Doug Terrific Twenty Item that I have the privilege of giving to one of my wonderful reasons would be a terrific Christmas gift for the little one on your list. Check out the Switch & Spin Magnetic Gear Board!
A unique spin on magnetic toys, Switch & Spin Magnetic Gear Boardlets kids build their own toy! Simply choose a picture template from 10 unique designs and place it in the wooden frame. Then add the gears in the color-coded spaces to turn each picture into an amazing kid-powered machine! Or remove the templates to reveal the white magnetic surface - perfect for an open-ended exploration of simple mechanics, or a range of counting, adding, and problem-solving activities (instructions included). This sturdy, durable gears toy includes a magnetic board with wooden frame, eight magnetic pegs, eight colorful gears, and five double-sided, color-coded design templates.
Dimensions: 15" x 11" x 2"
Recommended Ages: 2+ years
3 years ago today, we got the first glimpse of our precious kiddos! On November 10, 2009 - Jeremiah and Rachel became known to us. Just as we experienced tremendous joy that day, they continue to bring great joy to us each and everyday. We are so blessed to be a family!!!!
An excerpt I previously wrote about this picture: We have a 4 ½ year old boy who is so very handsome.He seems so solemn and as someone else said wise beyond his years.His arm is protectively around his darling 3 year old little sister who has the most captivating eyes I’ve ever seen.It was as if she was looking at us inquisitively asking, “Are you going to be my Mommy and Daddy?”We were beyond thrilled to look at their pictures, read their profiles, and medical reports.We knew these were the children God had chosen for us!
In the adoption process, the referral is one of the most exciting things, and it was no different for us. We know God's hand was involved in every aspect of our adoption, and it is definitely evidenced by the circumstances surrounding our referral. When you have a few minutes, go read all the details of our referral story. You may want a tissue close by. I just re-read it myself and have a few tears trickling. Thank God for our marvelous story - as with all adoptions it is HIS story!
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Prayer - Dear God, I pray for all those adoptive families currently waiting for referrals. In many cases, the timelines are lengthening and the waits getting harder. Give the parents-to-be peace and comfort in knowing that Your timing is always perfect! You who know their deepest desires also KNOW and LOVE their beautiful, CHOSEN children. ~Amen.
When you adopt internationally, undoubtedly, you will be asked one of two questions... probably both. There will be some variance of the ever-popular "Why didn't you adopt from the U.S.?" Usually followed by a statement such as: "There are kids here that need families." or "Shouldn't we take care of our "own" first?" The other popular question is "Why Ethiopia?" (Insert any country you adopt from.)
Over the years, I've had time to formulate answers to the questions, but I've also had increased opportunities to speak about adoption at seminars and workshops and serve as an associate for our adoption agency. I'm hearing the question, "Where is the greatest need?" much more often now. Honestly, I like this question a lot better. I know the prospective adoptive parents are looking for me to pinpoint a particular adoption program, country, age range, special need etc. However, that is not the answer I give.
When asked, "Where is the greatest need?" I always reply, "A need is a need! Any child without unconditional love and a forever family is a great need!" Therefore, I firmly support and advocate for all adoption. Foster care, foster to adopt, relative adoption, domestic adoption, international adoption, sibling adoption, HIV+ adoption, special needs adoption, etc. - God sets the lonely in families through them all, and it has been an honor and privilege to journey alongside families that God has grown in all of these ways. What do we all have in common? We aren't super heroes or rescuers. We are nothing special. By God's grace, we are entering into heartbreak, pain, and loss but are moving toward healing and redemption. We have all been touched by the great miracle of adoption and know that it is God who is truly Our Sustainer and Sovereign over all.
It is my belief that God simply leads individual families to pursue a specific type of adoption. It is our job to be obedient to His will and direction. For my family, international adoption is where we felt called. We are so blessed by our Ethiopian cuties - Jeremiah & Rachel. In the future, as we still plan to adopt again, we may be moved in another direction. We know our hearts have been stirred, and we are listening. Therefore, we must live constantly in communication with God. What about you? Will you be brave and courageous and venture to ask God what need He can use you to meet?
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Prayer - Dear God, Help us to be still and listen so that we may know your will. Open our eyes to see all the needs around us, and lead us in how you would have us respond. ~Amen.
Here comes Santa Claus... Here comes Santa Claus...
Ready or not, Christmas is on it's way. If you are anything like me, your "Shopping To-Do-List" has very few items crossed off. Here's a suggestion for you... let Melissa & Doug help! They have published their Terrific Twenty List full of great finds for the children of all ages. Creative, fun, educational, arts & crafts, girls and boys - Melissa & Doug have it covered! For years, we have been enjoying these high quality toys in our home, and I must say we are huge fans.
