Read-a-thon

Do you remember having a read-a-thon in school?  They were my favorite because I was able to go to school in my pj's, take a blanket, pillow and read all day.  These days were very rare and usually had to be earned, which is why I think I loved them so much.  

We have been working hard in school for the past 7 weeks.  I can't believe we are already into our eighth week.  Our days are very scheduled and sometimes the last thing that we fit in before bed is reading, which in all honesty should come first.  Over the past several weeks we have been working on making more time to read together as well as individually.  

"No matter how busy you may think you are, you must first find time for READING,  or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance."  -

Confucius 

Today I started out by reading to my kids.  We are reading a really exciting book called Circus Mirandus.  This clever story has kept my kids interested and at the end of each chapter they moan, begging for more. That's when you know you've got a great book.  Read it!

The girls are also reading some great books on their own right now.  Avery is reading Honey, for a book club and Taylor is reading  I'll meet you at the cucumbers.  I'm currently reading Warleggens, the 4th book in the Poldark series. We spent the afternoon cozy on the couch wrapped in blankets and deep into our books. It was the best day ever. After our read-a-thon we went and got a cupcake and played at the park.  A day like today helps to balance out all the days of hard work behind the desk, working on writing, grammar and math.  It's just nice to be rewarded every once in a while to appreciate the hard work you've given.  We are all looking forward to our next read-a-thon! 

Artistic Pursuits

During the week, if we work hard on all of our subjects we are able to have a lighter Friday which means we work on our art skills.  Last Friday we talked about how artist communicate with pictures instead of words.  I LOVE our art curriculum.  We use Artistic Pursuits which is simple, easy and the kids enjoy it, which is important. 

  

The girls have always loved different elements of art and the ability to express themselves artistically whether it be through movement, music or on paper.  This is a different avenue for them to explore and I love watching their artistic abilities grow.  They are all so very different yet, each of my girls have their own natural abilities.  This is one of the elements of homeschool that I just LOVE! I enjoy watching my kids learn something new, and grow as they work at it.  

  Taylor's picture is a scene from her trip to Disneyland this past summer.  

Avery is a picture of her playing outside with her friends.  

I love how these pictures show their personalities but also show the element of movement through their drawings!