tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17895594123800664692024-03-13T03:37:31.356-04:00Back to Square OneFamily of five from WV paving our way through the ups and downs of life by rediscovering what really works for us.Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-26263106259277507702015-06-07T09:00:00.002-04:002015-06-07T09:00:48.348-04:00REVIEW -- GreenAir Glass Accessories<div style="text-align: center;">
Good morning, everyone! My apologies for being away for so long but life (as it tends to do) got in the way. :-)</div>
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I have lots I plan on sharing with you but before we get back into the swing of things, I will be posting some back to back reviews.</div>
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<a href="http://newgreenair.com/index.html" target="_blank">GreenAir</a>, in the last several months, has come out with several new products and they have been generous enough to send me several items to share with you.</div>
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Their most recent offerings are a line of glass accessories for your aromatherapy blending needs.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1icKcliygGnrgVi9ZnG7D7xW10Kxc0fBFcY5ro1bXEe-Y5VDlqRrWucx2xl37IWcrw-ekopDLpQZ1k4G0pHS4c5hieovCSBHjy5FZF0bPTCdA71AL0E4zy3bRI7ITXuFVzrUBBiZvC3E/s1600/10497439_10153844278839045_8312304090377606233_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1icKcliygGnrgVi9ZnG7D7xW10Kxc0fBFcY5ro1bXEe-Y5VDlqRrWucx2xl37IWcrw-ekopDLpQZ1k4G0pHS4c5hieovCSBHjy5FZF0bPTCdA71AL0E4zy3bRI7ITXuFVzrUBBiZvC3E/s320/10497439_10153844278839045_8312304090377606233_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pictured -- 1/4 dram bottles, 5/8 dram bottles, 4oz cobalt spray bottle, 1oz brown spray bottle, 1/2 oz spray bottle and three 10ml roller bottles.</td></tr>
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I've decided to review all of these products together to streamline things.</div>
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<b>THE PROS --</b></div>
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* All products are very sturdy and able to withstand normal wear and tear. I've had them for a few weeks not and they've been smacked together, dropped, rolled off the table, etc and no breakage. No need to worry about them breaking while knocking around a back pack or purse.</div>
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*All lids fit securely. No leakage noted with any of the bottles. Even when the cap was left off a full roller bottle there was no leaking.</div>
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* A wide variety of sizes are available to fit your needs.</div>
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*All of the spray tops offer a list mist of product. I made a "after dryer" spray for our laundry and put it in the 4oz bottle. I was concerned that it would be too heavy but it is very light.</div>
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*The spray top for the 4oz cobalt bottle would be a great alternative for those with arthritis in their hands/fingers as it doesn't require much force to spray the contents.</div>
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<b>THE CONS --</b></div>
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I honestly do not have any to offer. These products are drop shipped from <a href="http://myoilgear.com/">myoilgear.com</a> which may be a con for some of you.</div>
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<b>FINAL THOUGHT --</b></div>
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I definitely recommend considering these products for your at home needs. Prices are comparable to others and GreenAir is a trusted and respected company. Products usually come as singles or in packs of three, six or twelve (depending on the item), if you are looking at purchasing larger quantities I would recommend contacting the company first to see if bulk pricing is available.</div>
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If you are not familiar with GreenAir and their products, you can find them here --<br /><br /><b>Website - </b><a href="http://newgreenair.com/">http://newgreenair.com/</a><br /><br /><b>Facebook - </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/newgreenair">https://www.facebook.com/newgreenair</a><br /><br /><b>Twitter - </b><a href="https://twitter.com/newGreenair">https://twitter.com/newGreenair</a></div>
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<b>Pinterest - </b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/SpaVapor/">https://www.pinterest.com/SpaVapor/</a></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-13834081731202911802015-01-17T13:22:00.002-05:002015-01-25T16:56:58.895-05:00Let's talk ingestion....<h4 style="text-align: center;">
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<strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">This is an important conversation so I am going to preface this with some equally important information. I AM NOT a certified, registered or clinical aromatherapist. I am a person who is passionate about essential oils, who is on her way to becoming a professional. I am also <span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">not aligned with any company. In fact, I use many well respected companies when I purchase oils.</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><strong> </strong></span></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><strong>I consider myself fortunate because I have had the opportunity to become acquainted with many professional aromatherapist with varying years of experience. They have been very generous in sharing their knowledge with me and guiding me as I learn more about oils and aromatherapy. </strong></span></div>
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<strong>Now, you may be wondering why I am talking about this if I am not a professional. I feel as though I may be able to help those who are in the very position I found myself in not too very long ago.... </strong></div>
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<strong>Being brand spanking new to essential oils and</strong></div>
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<strong>being inundated with conflicting information.</strong></div>
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<strong>While maneuving these rough waters, I have discovered that there 4 categories of people involved in the controversy over internal use... </strong></div>
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<strong>1) <strong>DRINK ALL THE ESSENTIAL OILS!!!!</strong> These are more often than not people who belong to particular companies, who have been told by friends and upliners that ingestion multiple times a day is 100% safe. These people almost always have no essential oil training and when asked for "proof" or "research" will start parroting the same marketing ploys that were used on them. </strong></div>
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<strong>2) <strong>NEVER USE ESSENTIAL OILS INTERNALLY!!!</strong> Safety renegades. They feel as though it is NEVER appropriate in any case to use oils internally. </strong></div>
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<strong>3) <strong>USE THEM INTERNALLY (WHEN NECESSARY) BUT USE THEM SAFELY AND CORRECTLY!</strong> These are where your professionals lie. This is also where you will find those who are not certified but are passionate about oils and take courses regularly. This is the comfy middle ground. It make sense when you think about it. How often is being an extreme a good thing!?!? </strong><br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/RobertTisserandEssentialTraining?fref=photo" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL003WXc5eHeVna2DZdWUTBQIykCr0Ssu5K5UgzY6HxiIpSOH7huGj7Scxvw1RH9hABDY2ZQaydkgzbkrkEhoPil-EUt4QgQ5T9OERh7Jg_ql7BAOTPzGzVUO6bqHbc2FDMEkvtI907YXS/s1600/10696168_831374120227124_820141957808928715_n.png" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>4) <strong>NEWBIES!</strong> We've all been there. You are interested in essential oils, you are curious about using them so you ask seemingly innocent questions. Chances are if you've asked about ingestion, you found yourself in a whirlwind of facts, claims, anecdotal evidence and insult flinging. You are not sure where you stand or if you ever want to open a bottle of essential oils again. </strong></div>
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<strong>So, now onto ingestion. </strong></div>
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<strong> <strong>Here's what we do know-</strong><strong> </strong></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Ingestion has its place within the field of aromatherapy but there are contraindications, adverse effects (some that are medication as well as condition specific) and proper methods of administration that need to be considered not only with each oil but with each individual. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Improper administration of essential oils internally can and has caused mucous membrane burning, esophageal damage as well as gastrointestinal upset of varying degrees. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Incorrect dosing can, overtime (timeline varies based on oil and liver function), cause liver toxicity as the chemical constituents build up in the liver. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Some oils have been proven safe as food additives but that has no bearing on safety in regards to therapeutic usage. (</span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">For more information, please see - <span style="cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal;">http://www.fda.gov/Food/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal;">IngredientsPackagingLabeling/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-weight: normal;"></span><span style="cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal;">GRAS/</span>)</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Some oils have been proven safe for internal use when correct methods of administration (usually via suppository or enteric coated tablets) are employed.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Adding essential oils to water is NEVER considered a safe method of administration. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*The leading cause of poisoning in regards to essential oils is directly related to ingestion. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*In countries where ingestion has been used for many years, the oils are prescribed by physicians trained in internal usage. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*In the above mentioned countries, ingestion is still not used as a regular means of treatment. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Safety recommendations for internal use are NOT BRAND SPECIFIC! No matter what your upline tells you! Safety recommendations are across the board as the research done on essential oils is also NOT brand specific. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><strong>Here's what we don't know....</strong><strong> </strong></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*The efficacy or safety of all oils in regards to ingestion. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*Safety in regards to regular/routine usage. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: blue;">*The full range of side effects in regards to various time frames of usage.</span></strong></div>
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<strong>Unfortunately, the research into essential oils and ingestion specifically is minimum so it is VITAL that we work with the information that is currently available to us. </strong></div>
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<strong>While we hope that with the increase usage of oils, research will increase but it could still be many, many years before we have a very clear imagine of the range of efficacy and safety of oils. Modern medicine was predated by the usage of herbs and there still isn't as much research available as herbalist would like there to be because, frankly, the money isn't there.</strong></div>
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<strong>The decision to ingest is yours and yours alone but I <strong>URGE</strong> you to think about a few things before you do so –</strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: red;">Do you have enough knowledge about the safety and efficacy of oils when used internally?</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: red;">Have you done any independent research or are you basing your decision off of what someone else is telling you? And if you are, did you take time to consider their education or what they have to gain from your internal usage.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: red;">Is there another (safer) way to accomplish what you want to gain through ingestion?</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: red;">Why do you NEED to ingest?</span></strong></div>
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<strong>So, where do I stand? </strong></div>
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<strong>I am in a subset group of group 4. While I believe and have seen research to support the safe internal usage of essential oils when administered properly, I do not ingest. I have found zero need to ingest as inhalation and topical application have proven to be very effective. I also do not ingest because I do not feel that I have enough knowledge to do so safely.</strong></div>
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<strong>Where do you stand?</strong></div>
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<strong>Below I have included articles, blog entries and safety statements from various aromatherapy organizations, schools and aromatherapist that are specific to ingestion. I hope you find them informative.</strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety/naha-safety-statements/"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">http://www.naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety/naha-safety-statements/</span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alliance-aromatherapists.org/aromatherapy/aromatherapy-safety/">http://www.alliance-aromatherapists.org/aromatherapy/aromatherapy-safety/</a></div>
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<a href="http://theida.com/essential-oils/the-internal-use-of-essential-oils-an-exploration">http://theida.com/essential-oils/the-internal-use-of-essential-oils-an-exploration</a></div>
<span style="background: #F6F7F8; color: #141823; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.westcoastaromatherapy.com/free-information/articles-archive/essential-oil-safety-internal-use/">http://www.westcoastaromatherapy.com/free-information/articles-archive/essential-oil-safety-internal-use/</a></div>
</span><span style="background: #F6F7F8; color: #141823; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.atlanticinstitute.com/blog/2014/11/8/essential-oils-can-be-taken-internally">http://www.atlanticinstitute.com/blog/2014/11/8/essential-oils-can-be-taken-internally</a></div>
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<span style="background: #F6F7F8; color: #141823; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2013/08/06/ingesting-essential-oils/">http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2013/08/06/ingesting-essential-oils/</a></div>
</span><span style="background: #F6F7F8; color: #141823; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://empoweredsustenance.com/ingesting-essential-oils/">http://empoweredsustenance.com/ingesting-essential-oils/</a></div>
</span><span style="background: #F6F7F8; color: #141823; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.thebarefootdragonfly.com/why-essential-oils-are-not-water-flavoring-agents/">http://www.thebarefootdragonfly.com/why-essential-oils-are-not-water-flavoring-agents/</a></div>
</span><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://essentialoilblogging.com/2014/01/14/can-essential-oils-be-ingested/">http://essentialoilblogging.com/2014/01/14/can-essential-oils-be-ingested/</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.naturesgift.com/aromatherapy-information/essential-oil-safety/#internal-use">https://www.naturesgift.com/aromatherapy-information/essential-oil-safety/#internal-use</a></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-13746393829622491722015-01-08T15:36:00.000-05:002015-01-08T15:36:26.010-05:00New Diffuser Blend<div style="text-align: center;">
Citrus essential oils are my all-time favorite oils. They are bright, uplifting, remind me of summer and generally make me feel good.</div>
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With the cold front that has blown in, we all needed a little bit of brightness and a reminder of summer so I put together the following blend, Sweets Shoppe.</div>
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The name tells you everything you need to know about the scent. The kids and I really enjoyed it so I wanted to share it with you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBQDCjd2_nR79jmLPeB4UuDe9FJXQy45EDKry-fF-1g7Q9ee1cChiHupEGf68c6jv9NtCcGsxjM_dkCMh3G9xSQlyFDJvGstvlPSmtyWRWrg9hENYWv6NaXrjNiPCLxs31a4gXHdtZAZG/s1600/Sweets+ShoppeDiffuser+Blend.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEBQDCjd2_nR79jmLPeB4UuDe9FJXQy45EDKry-fF-1g7Q9ee1cChiHupEGf68c6jv9NtCcGsxjM_dkCMh3G9xSQlyFDJvGstvlPSmtyWRWrg9hENYWv6NaXrjNiPCLxs31a4gXHdtZAZG/s1600/Sweets+ShoppeDiffuser+Blend.png" height="335" width="400" /></a></div>
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What are your favorite oils to diffuse? Let me know in the comments below!</div>
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Have a great day!</div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-67262929369222874462015-01-03T17:52:00.003-05:002015-01-03T17:57:34.566-05:00Reusable Cloth Food Wraps<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">It's a cold, wet and generally miserable day here in West Virginia. I'm supposed to be working on lesson plans but didn't much feel like it, so to distract myself I decided to finally try my hand at making reusable food wraps.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I heard about them last year but never got around to making them. They were said to be super-simple to make and clean (a bit of soap and hot water will do the trick) as well as a great way to replace plastic wrap as well as sandwich bags. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The materials are pretty basic; food-grade beeswax (grate or purchase pastilles), cotton fabric (don't forget to wash it) and pinking shears.</span></div>
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There are three methods to accomplish making these reusable food wraps: using an iron, your oven or a pan.</div>
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<b>Iron Method:</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lhaoz6QIfgG96Lmo2wXJao9NUvKLK9wn5ozyHvTI-5EbPVE-xrhnyKlvcfuiDkBmgGNP5LaOS99Aru5CXLt4sOlU_53HgEhBbe9DxYRgie5OFeishqtyTUB1anApj74SkfxPXDrdYI8c/s1600/photo+1+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img alt="Supplies at the ready!" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9lhaoz6QIfgG96Lmo2wXJao9NUvKLK9wn5ozyHvTI-5EbPVE-xrhnyKlvcfuiDkBmgGNP5LaOS99Aru5CXLt4sOlU_53HgEhBbe9DxYRgie5OFeishqtyTUB1anApj74SkfxPXDrdYI8c/s1600/photo+1+(1).JPG" height="300" title="Ironing board, parchment paper, iron, shears, beeswax and cotton fabric." width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Supplies at the ready!<br />
Ironing board, parchment paper, iron,<br />
shears, beeswax and cotton fabric.</td></tr>
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Cut your fabric to the size you desire. Cover your work space with parchment paper, and then cover your ironing board with parchment. Lay the fabric on top of the parchment, sprinkle beeswax onto it (don't add too much or it will run down the sides) and then cover it with another sheet of parchment. Use your iron to melt the beeswax, spreading it across your fabric. When finished, remove the fabric from the parchment and hang until cooled.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melting the wax.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">.</span><b><br /><br />THE END RESULT:</b><br />
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<b>Final thoughts the on iron method:</b> I won't be doing this again. Yes, it is easy. Yes, if you are careful clean up should be fairly simple. However, even with all the parchment I still somehow managed to get beeswax on my ironing board cover. <b>NOTE:</b> I have seen where people have used old blankets to make a makeshift ironing area so they didn't have to worry about any leaks or drips.</div>
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The other problem I ran into is that I needed to add more beeswax and while doing so I got just distracted enough to flip the parchment wax side up and set my hot iron right on it. Now my iron isn't ruined but in this house, distractions are a constant. If there is an easier way to do this with minimal mess, I'm game! :-)</div>
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<b>Oven Method:</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Covered with beeswax and ready for the oven.</td></tr>
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<b>How to do it: </b>Cut fabric. Heat your over to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Place your fabric on the aluminum foil and sprinkle beeswax over fabric. Place in oven for 4-6 minutes or until the wax is completely melted. Remove from oven and hang fabric to dry.</div>
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<b>The End Result:</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cooled and ready for use.</td></tr>
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<b>Final Thoughts on Oven Method:</b></div>
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For me, this is the way to go! Super easy, no fuss, no muss! When you are finished, just throw the aluminum foil away or fold it up and save it to make more at a later date.</div>
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<b>Pan Method:</b></div>
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I had every intention of giving this a go but to be honest, after trying the oven method I see no reason to sacrifice a pan to the beeswax gods! If you've ever worked with beeswax, you understand the difficulty that can come with cleaning it up.</div>
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<b>This is a great way to use up fabric scraps and random fat quarters you have lying around. You can use various sizes of rubber bands to secure the food wraps to containers. For sandwiches you can can keep them closed. I've seen where some bloggers have even stitched large buttons to one corner and wrapped twine of string around the button to keep them secure. </b></div>
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<b>These good wraps can be as simplistic or fancy as you choose for them to be. If you are frequently taking dishes to potlucks, you may want to consider embroidering your name or initials on them. :-)</b></div>
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<b>Have you made reusable food wraps? What method did you use? Do you like them? Feel free to share your thoughts and pictures below!</b></div>
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<b>Have a wonderful weekend!</b></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-11231855172778050292014-11-13T10:13:00.000-05:002014-11-13T10:24:01.732-05:00REVIEW - Herbal Cold Care - Natural Remedies for Cold & Flu Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>If you follow my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Back-to-Square-One/864883776863000" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>, you may remember that at the end of October I shared an offer from the wonderful people at <a href="http://learningherbs.com/" target="_blank">Learning Herbs</a>. The offer was for Rosalee de la Foret's <a href="http://herbalcoldcare.com/" target="_blank">Herbal Cold Care </a>course.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I finished the course yesterday and wanted to share a quick review with you.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>This isn't the first product or course that I've purchased from the <a href="http://learningherbs.com/" target="_blank">Learning Herbs</a> family. I am a member of their paid site, <a href="http://www.herbmentor.com/public/" target="_blank">Herb Mentor</a>. Two years ago, I purchased their video series, <a href="http://www.rosemarysremedies.com/standby_pages/7778" target="_blank">Rosemary's Remedies</a>, we have an <a href="http://www.herbfairies.com/" target="_blank">HerbFairies</a> membership for Abbie and we also own their game, <a href="http://learningherbs.com/wildcraft/" target="_blank">Wildcraft</a>. As I type this I am anxiously awaiting the re-release of their <a href="http://www.tasteofherbs.com/standby_pages/25720" target="_blank">Taste of Herbs</a> video series.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Needless to say, this is a company that I have a long history with. When this new course was made available, I was nothing short of excited.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>To the left, you have the videos available in this series, there are 11 (counting the Welcome message). Topics covered include, dosing, prevention, sore throats, coughs, congestion and fevers.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In the top right corner, you will find links to information about Rosalee, submitting questions, course bonuses, tech support, as well as where you can get herbs (a 10% discount from <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/" target="_blank">Mountain Rose Herbs</a> is even made available to participants).</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>As you scroll to the bottom of the screen, you will find links to the recipes, downloadable audio, slides and transcripts.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The course videos are clear and concise. Rosalee has a voice that is knowledgeable, down to Earth, easy to listen and very well spoken. She not only takes the time to clear up common myths/fears related to not only herbs and conditions but she makes herbalism personable.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I appreciate the fact that the herbs in the course are easily accessible, safe and easy to use. It could have been very easy to use complex, harder to find herbs for this series and she chose not to go that route which makes this perfect for someone who is just starting out. Even as someone who has been using herbs for a while, I found this course informative. I also appreciate the fact that throughout the series, she offers many other sources of information.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Let's talk about the bonuses because who doesn't like getting more than what they paid for!?!?!?</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>22 beautiful and detailed herbal monographs</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Ultimate Elderberry E-book</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Herbal Remedies for Children E-book</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The Key to Winter Wellness Chart</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>50 Herbal Recipes</b></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>We've covered all of the positive....so, time for the negatives, right? Well, the only negative I have to offer you is that this is NOT available year 'round! With that said, it will be available until November 15, 2014 for $50.00 off.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Whether you are new to herbs or you've been dabbling in them for a while now, I truly believe that you will find the information in this course valuable.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I hope you check it out! If you do, let me know what you think in the comments below!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Have a wonderful day!</b></span></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-63780188677692602442014-11-12T15:38:00.000-05:002014-11-12T16:06:58.022-05:00Our Top Ten Favorite Board Games<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>If you follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Back-to-Square-One/864883776863000" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, you've probably notice the occasional mention of various board games we've purchased. Over the past year, we have become huge card/board game junkies. We play regularly as a family and even meet up with friends for weekly game nights.</b></div>
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<b>I was recently asked to compile a list of our favorite games so instead of just offering my opinion, I asked Eric and the kids to give me a list of their top ten favorite games. </b></div>
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<b>Here are our overall favorites in no particular order (Below, I will list everyone's favorites individually incase you want to check them out too.)</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIOGhDgLiQ46nHXk4XSP4dH23B4y5a1CKXDdUmomZS1R-Cc1Ib8KJ9XJT7GAt1iNtBS6o7-eqnmJNDggGydOalsuDE6sCvZAxIGN40tP-fGEkvEW7JtB1E0n97HgUPQ501-UHyS2jv9gB/s1600/tt_photo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIOGhDgLiQ46nHXk4XSP4dH23B4y5a1CKXDdUmomZS1R-Cc1Ib8KJ9XJT7GAt1iNtBS6o7-eqnmJNDggGydOalsuDE6sCvZAxIGN40tP-fGEkvEW7JtB1E0n97HgUPQ501-UHyS2jv9gB/s200/tt_photo1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/tickettoride/en/usa/" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a> is a great family game. The basic goal of the game is to get enough train cards to complete the various routes you are given before someone else runs out of trains. Of course, this can be hampered by others who are either trying to complete their routes or are just trying to make sure you don't win. It's pretty fast paced and suitable for the whole family. Scoring is very easy. Days of Wonder has come out with expansions for the game as well as variations that take place in different parts of the world. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67-Mali7fyZYV79bzUwAVhxrvZswi7A5O6shJPm6fMh_JOmkEr9kyD49GhtjIagB7ooU8hh6ylvQhulvnoC7TB6-vuwQWEwd0mKxSOJwGyLidN_1QjrBJPYa4h9FvFr5EGpJcFjyb5U6w/s1600/sw_home_picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67-Mali7fyZYV79bzUwAVhxrvZswi7A5O6shJPm6fMh_JOmkEr9kyD49GhtjIagB7ooU8hh6ylvQhulvnoC7TB6-vuwQWEwd0mKxSOJwGyLidN_1QjrBJPYa4h9FvFr5EGpJcFjyb5U6w/s200/sw_home_picture1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a> was one of the first "non-traditional" board games we purchased and the jumping off point of our obsession. In <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a>, each player is a different mythical race and we are all battling to conquer the land. This is another great family game. Once you figure out the special feature of each race, the rules are pretty straight forward. The races and their abilities are change with every game allowing for loads of replay value. Days of Wonder has also come out with various expansions and variations on this game.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguD4bPKjSIkl4dLfqoKuAnWOboGzTghfezd0bP_m8R2-B521aOIxYHf75DmzsgyWdATb7pafvqPMKBDBp6QJBkn5znllkRweN10Pvx3b7xpmFjzh7ujVRmyNmke1AF5DywXD15Tj802d93/s1600/ah_prod_houseonthehill_pic1_en.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguD4bPKjSIkl4dLfqoKuAnWOboGzTghfezd0bP_m8R2-B521aOIxYHf75DmzsgyWdATb7pafvqPMKBDBp6QJBkn5znllkRweN10Pvx3b7xpmFjzh7ujVRmyNmke1AF5DywXD15Tj802d93/s200/ah_prod_houseonthehill_pic1_en.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>I love this game! <a href="http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=ah/prod/houseonthehill" target="_blank">Betrayal at House on the Hill</a> is like a horror movie in board game form. This game starts out as a cooperative game where each player is maneuvering through an abandoned house gathering items and experiencing horrifying events. As the game progresses it is reveled that one of you is a traitor who lead you here to aid some evil being in completing their dark and demented plan. I do not think you can play two games that are exactly the same. As you maneuver through the house you are actually picking a different floor plan every game and once the traitor is revealed there are 50 haunt scenarios to play through.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNnXQqx6LBbz-kQnpbgX2Bc3A2QL9Vd-lF5cA8JRSiHpLFi5954gRzlBc5QsFtc5OOfVLERS8y5vjPPqREdodb0zyq204WUIrMqROr3VkTILR23BAUfZDY7ttJ-xc0BQng_PT3f6cUBg2/s1600/mockup_KOT_NL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNnXQqx6LBbz-kQnpbgX2Bc3A2QL9Vd-lF5cA8JRSiHpLFi5954gRzlBc5QsFtc5OOfVLERS8y5vjPPqREdodb0zyq204WUIrMqROr3VkTILR23BAUfZDY7ttJ-xc0BQng_PT3f6cUBg2/s200/mockup_KOT_NL.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<b>I do not think there is a week that goes by where the kids do not pull out <a href="http://iellogames.com/KingOfTokyo.html" target="_blank">King of Tokyo</a>. This is a very kid and family friendly game that is fast paced and easy to learn. Choose to be one of six giant monsters battling for the rights to be named the King of Tokyo. Iello Games has created an expansion pack for the game and a variation on it that is based in New York.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdCJZEy6ayyY850PqQZHRh7rYjfRDqaPhX6RE_pARsIHczx0p99oGG3kE8sORZA_2D5jugez9o9N-DFcVqwEYJZRKdl_k5ggLZsG5J0AOhjGqEIKV5Sk80d4rjEuq_pcbEb3xQlW5JNFz/s1600/btalk_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="60" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdCJZEy6ayyY850PqQZHRh7rYjfRDqaPhX6RE_pARsIHczx0p99oGG3kE8sORZA_2D5jugez9o9N-DFcVqwEYJZRKdl_k5ggLZsG5J0AOhjGqEIKV5Sk80d4rjEuq_pcbEb3xQlW5JNFz/s200/btalk_4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.technosourcehk.com/pr_bubbletalk.php" target="_blank">Bubble Talk</a> is nothing short of hilarious and even borderline inappropriate when you have the right (or wrong) people playing with you. The premise of the game is simple enough -- each player takes turns choosing a picture and their opponents have to caption it. The person with the best caption get the picture and the first player to have five pictures wins. There are loads of pictures and captions offering lots of replay value.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaPlVLTPGRwtgaTFj7GXsKAlCc-XH4nDvcknjnXfiFHyD2JqVTHCHNEoWJGuk-my_y9kVeXYIANeu3b-IW78mcRVQhB0G7V6moKUS20EkokxU3MKQnSNPSpC6zKUbZjvNzAHII5eA15FI/s1600/CLP119-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaPlVLTPGRwtgaTFj7GXsKAlCc-XH4nDvcknjnXfiFHyD2JqVTHCHNEoWJGuk-my_y9kVeXYIANeu3b-IW78mcRVQhB0G7V6moKUS20EkokxU3MKQnSNPSpC6zKUbZjvNzAHII5eA15FI/s200/CLP119-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/46/tsuro-of-the-seas" target="_blank">Tsuro of the Seas</a> is gorgeous game where the players are seafarers trying to maneuver an ocean full of water dragons. If you can avoid the dragons and other ships while NOT falling off the edge of the world, you are the kid of the high seas. Another great family game that teaches strategy and the art of thinking ahead. This game also has a lot of replay value as the dragons are constantly taking the place of the tiles you place to move and when your tiles intersect with those of another player, your path through the sea changes. <a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/46/tsuro-of-the-seas" target="_blank">Tsuro of the Seas</a> is the second in a series. The original is <a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/45/tsuro" target="_blank">Tsuro</a>. I have not played Tsuro yet but from what I have seen, play through is similar and the artwork is equally beautiful.</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.firesidegames.com/castlepanic.html" target="_blank">Castle Panic</a> is a cooperative game where the players work together to protect their castle from the onslaught of 49 monsters, some with special powers. This is another quick play game that is fun for everyone!</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=245" target="_blank">Forbidden Island</a> is another great cooperative game that is appropriate for all ages. The goal is to collect all of the islands ancient artifacts and get off the island before it sinks into the ocean, never to be seen again! Game play is pretty straight forward. The island layout is different every game and just when you think it has become too easy, you can increase the rate at which the island sinks. Gamewright, creators of <a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=245" target="_blank">Forbidden Island</a> have come up with a follow up game, <a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=277" target="_blank">Forbidden Desert</a> that offers similar game play but (in my opinion) offers more of a challenge.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIVWNGoTZNOM9K5YKKRvKALeSJrGHrz9qEPzFn8hewUi9SjW-bMS0K-UU6jIObioolq4HONsHdKueSBI48G-YmS6kzXFc4z6l5hBVj38LWCiCWIFIexvHpgnW_Z5PwIfgEDYbpcC9I9VC/s1600/1246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlIVWNGoTZNOM9K5YKKRvKALeSJrGHrz9qEPzFn8hewUi9SjW-bMS0K-UU6jIObioolq4HONsHdKueSBI48G-YmS6kzXFc4z6l5hBVj38LWCiCWIFIexvHpgnW_Z5PwIfgEDYbpcC9I9VC/s200/1246.jpg" width="154" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Pandemic </a>- Now here is a game that will frustrate you to no end and leave you coming back for more. This is a game of beat the clock....or rather beat the spread of disease. Players work together to try to cure and eradicate 4 different diseases as they spread across the globe. It may sound easy but just as you think you have a handle on things, BAM...there's another epidemic. We have lost this game more than we've won it and it is still a favorite. There are also expansions available as well as a brand new dice game for a quick, 30 min, play.</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://fantasyflightgames.com/edge_minisite.asp?eidm=233" target="_blank">Letters from Whitechapel</a> is another gloriously frustrating game. As one player (Jack the Ripper) moves around the Whitechapel District of London over four knights killing five women the other players work together to track and hopefully catch Jack. If you play this.....bring your deduction skills to the table because trust me, you will need them! Also, huge bonus for history buffs, the dates of the murders, the names of the victims and the officers who worked the case are historically accurate.</b></div>
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<b>My personal favorites - <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/tickettoride/en/usa/" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a>, <a href="http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=ah/prod/houseonthehill" target="_blank">Betrayal at House on the Hill,</a> <a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Pandemic</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/shadowsovercamelot/en/" target="_blank">Shadows Over Camelot</a>, <a href="http://www.worldofmunchkin.com/munchkinquest/index2.html" target="_blank">Munchkin Quest</a>, <a href="http://www.melissaanddoug.com/suspend-family-game" target="_blank">Suspend</a>, <a href="http://fantasyflightgames.com/edge_minisite.asp?eidm=233" target="_blank">Letters from Whitechapel</a>, <a href="http://www.technosourcehk.com/pr_bubbletalk.php" target="_blank">Bubble Talk</a> and <a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=277" target="_blank">Forbidden Desert</a>.</b></div>
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<b>Eric's personal favorites - <a href="http://fantasyflightgames.com/edge_minisite.asp?eidm=233" target="_blank">Letters from Whitechapel</a>, <a href="http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=ah/prod/houseonthehill" target="_blank">Betrayal at House on the Hill</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/tickettoride/en/usa/" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a>, <a href="http://www.hasbro.com/en_US/shop/details.cfm?R=8F001BD6-6D40-1014-8BF0-9EFBF894F9D4:en_US" target="_blank">Mouse Trap</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a>, <a href="http://www.hasbrogames.com/en-us/product/risk-game:34DA36C9-5056-900B-10A4-3B04F9EA5D3E" target="_blank">Risk</a>, Chess, <a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=245" target="_blank">Forbidden Island</a>, <a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Pandemic</a>....no, I didn't count wrong...Eric couldn't think of a number 10 favorite game.</b></div>
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<b>Bryce's personal favorites - <a href="http://www.worldofmunchkin.com/munchkinquest/index2.html" target="_blank">Munchkin Quest</a>, <a href="http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=ah/prod/houseonthehill" target="_blank">Betrayal at House on the Hill</a>, <a href="http://iellogames.com/KingOfTokyo.html" target="_blank">King of Tokyo</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/tickettoride/en/usa/" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a>, <a href="http://www.rprod.com/?page=description-22" target="_blank">7 Wonders</a>, <a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/46/tsuro-of-the-seas" target="_blank">Tsuro of the Seas</a>, <a href="http://www.indieboardsandcards.com/resistance.php" target="_blank">Resistance</a>, <a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Castle Panic</a> and <a href="http://www.gamewright.com/gamewright/index.php?section=games&page=game&show=245" target="_blank">Forbidden Island</a></b></div>
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<b>Noah's personal favorites - <a href="http://iellogames.com/KingOfTokyo.html" target="_blank">King of Tokyo</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/smallworld/en/" target="_blank">Small World</a>, <a href="http://shop.mattel.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3761638" target="_blank">UNO</a>, <a href="http://www.hasbrogames.com/en-us/product/classic-jenga:2622533E-5056-9047-F5C4-A77AA2A86686" target="_blank">Jenga</a>, <a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/46/tsuro-of-the-seas" target="_blank">Tsuro of the Seas</a>, <a href="http://www.hasbro.com/monopoly/en_US/shop/details.cfm?R=F3854DAA-728A-1014-B188-F10137905FA8:en_US" target="_blank">Monopoly Deal</a>, <a href="http://www.technosourcehk.com/pr_bubbletalk.php" target="_blank">Bubble Talk</a>, <a href="http://www.indieboardsandcards.com/resistance.php" target="_blank">Resistance</a>, <a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Castle Panic</a> and <a href="http://www.melissaanddoug.com/suspend-family-game" target="_blank">Suspend</a>.</b></div>
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<b>Abbie's personal favorites- <a href="http://shop.mattel.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3761638" target="_blank">UNO</a>, <a href="http://www.hasbrogames.com/en-us/product/risk-game:34DA36C9-5056-900B-10A4-3B04F9EA5D3E" target="_blank">Risk</a>, <a href="http://shop.mattel.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11213278" target="_blank">Phase 10</a>, <a href="http://www.daysofwonder.com/tickettoride/en/usa/" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a>, <a href="http://www.storycubes.com/" target="_blank">Story Cubes</a>, <a href="http://www.hedbanz.com/" target="_blank">HedBanz</a>, <a href="http://www.calliopegames.com/read/46/tsuro-of-the-seas" target="_blank">Tsuro of the Seas</a>, <a href="http://iellogames.com/KingOfTokyo.html" target="_blank">King of Tokyo</a>, <a href="http://zmangames.com/product-details.php?id=1246" target="_blank">Castle Panic</a> and <a href="http://www.technosourcehk.com/pr_bubbletalk.php" target="_blank">Bubble Talk</a>.</b></div>
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<b>Before you ask, I know many of these games cannot be found at your local bog box store but no worries! Check your are for local game/hobby shops. Many even offer rooms where you can pre-play games to see if they are something you want to invest in and there is the added bonus of supporting your local community. However, if there are not game/hobby stores in your area all of these games can be purchased online either through Amazon, the publisher or other board game retailers.</b></div>
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<b>If you do not have a hobby/game shop that lets you preview games or you would rather check them out at home before venturing out, check out the Table Top series with Will Wheaton on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/geekandsundry" target="_blank">Geek & Sundry</a>.</b></div>
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<b><b>What is your family's favorite game? Share in the comments below!</b></b></div>
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</b>Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-59548291332686373022014-11-03T06:02:00.000-05:002014-11-03T06:14:48.837-05:00*Product Review* GreenAir SpaVapor Pro<br />
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<b><a href="http://newgreenair.com/index.html" target="_blank">GreenAir</a> has once again been gracious enough to send me a diffuser to review! This time we are going to take a look at their <a href="http://newgreenair.com/spavapor-pro.html" target="_blank">SpaVapor Pro</a>.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DbXjWW5qn2922zXYQOCxbGkyBpNRwt46ULd91UnF8vTrqSSuVzSRirY3-r9OryINT7WO2a0txKBI6ujThOYH1U8n2yKFZ7ny4LKWo2Ndc8_NPVxAD14V0wieOIYL5FlXYlmrztBwBvyD/s1600/41xidxRUo+L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DbXjWW5qn2922zXYQOCxbGkyBpNRwt46ULd91UnF8vTrqSSuVzSRirY3-r9OryINT7WO2a0txKBI6ujThOYH1U8n2yKFZ7ny4LKWo2Ndc8_NPVxAD14V0wieOIYL5FlXYlmrztBwBvyD/s1600/41xidxRUo+L.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">Product Information - </b></div>
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<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Base is available in three colors -- White, Blue and Pink</b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Six hour run time with auto-shut off -- It should be noted that run times can vary slightly based on the amount of minerals in your water. </b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Holds 200ml (6.7628 fl. oz.) of water</b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Rotating LED lights (Purple, Blue, Red, Green or Natural Light)</b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Setting options - Rotating Lights, Solid Color, No color, Off</b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Coverage - 400 square feet</b></li>
<li style="border: none; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b>Requires as few as 5 drops of essential oil</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><b style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">360 Degree </b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><b>Nozzle</b></span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><b>Like the <a href="http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">AromaMister</a>, the <a href="http://newgreenair.com/spavapor-pro.html" target="_blank">SpaVapor Pro</a> requires no special tools for assembly and comes in three pieces.....the base, the lid and the AC adapter.</b></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plug in the adapter, add tap water and essential oils, place lid on and press the button.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the fill line. If you fill past it, the SpaVapor will not work properly.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MmkO9754cRT1KjUWNMQSBh01Drhj8kKz-I8wzF6diE8tkULTwQR0psQedoVsyV5BTOwCAixrpMJBOrZRHOuMIBEzdBwjc9b64idJFrenYAkAj8QKCy2BlZBvO7FVlrQQ47DjSbRKXLN9/s1600/photo+1+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MmkO9754cRT1KjUWNMQSBh01Drhj8kKz-I8wzF6diE8tkULTwQR0psQedoVsyV5BTOwCAixrpMJBOrZRHOuMIBEzdBwjc9b64idJFrenYAkAj8QKCy2BlZBvO7FVlrQQ47DjSbRKXLN9/s1600/photo+1+(5).JPG" height="185" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Pros - </span></b></div>
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<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Covers more square footage.</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Good quality product at a reasonable price.</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Easy to use</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Easy to clean</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>The lid!! I was so excited to see that this lid fits securely to the base. Not only does it fit securely but it requires a little bit of effort to get it off the base. Trust me, when you have three kids and several animals this matters! :-)</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Bonus LED color! While this probably seems silly, none of the descriptions for the SpaVapor Pro mention a red LED so imagine my surprise when mine turned red. </b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Quiet</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Lightweight </b></li>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Cons - </span></b></div>
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<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>360 degree nozzle - While I think it is great that you can direct where your diffusing goes, I find the nozzle difficult to turn. I would NOT recommend trying to turn it while it is on the base....especially if said was has water in it....you may end up wearing it! I also really, REALLY wish that it turned mechanically but I realize the increased cost involved with that type of addition.</b></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><b>Lack of interval options - As I said with the AromaMister, I wish there was other time settings available as I prefer not to run a diffuser more than 60 minutes at a time as is recommended by many aromatherapist. However, that doesn't stop me from using it. I just make an effort to remember to turn it off regularly. I know that GreenAir recently came out with a brand new diffuser that offers more settings, maybe I will be lucky enough to get my hands on some. ;-) If I do, you will be the FIRST to know.</b></li>
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Conclusion - </span></b></div>
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<b>Another great product from GreenAir. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a diffuser that covers a larger living space and ESPECIALLY if you have children or animals.</b></div>
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<b>Interested in GreenAir? Find them here:</b></div>
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<b>GreenAir Online - <a href="http://newgreenair.com/index.html">http://newgreenair.com/index.html</a></b></div>
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<b>GreenAir Blog - <a href="http://newgreenair.com/blog.html">http://newgreenair.com/blog.html</a><br />Find GreenAir on Facebook - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/newgreenair">https://www.facebook.com/newgreenair</a></b></div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-78055496686622191482014-10-21T09:21:00.001-04:002014-10-21T09:22:09.798-04:00Linen Spray<div style="text-align: center;">
I am pretty new to aromatherapy. Or, perhaps I should say, I am pretty new to using essential oils correctly for aromatherapy. I spent too long using them the wrong way, taking no time to consider possible side effects, contraindications, etc.</div>
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When I decided to extend my knowledge base of essential oils and learn how to use them properly, one of the first things I wanted to accomplish to find an alternative way to treat my allergies which trigger my asthma.</div>
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Several months back I was introduced to Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum) as a means to deal with allergy flare ups. I decide to experiment by using it in an aroma-inhaler and had a lot of success with dealing with my allergies through the day. The one problem I had was waking up congested, with itchy, irritated eyes. I was not about to wake up during the night to use my aroma-inhaler so I wanted to come up with something I could use just before bed that would carry through to morning.</div>
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One morning, I was reading a <a href="http://essentialoilblogging.com/2014/06/23/lovely-linen-spray-2/" target="_blank">blog post</a> on linen sprays written by a friend who is a certified aromatherapist and became inspired to create a linen spray that would put an end to night time allergy issues and help me sleep. The following recipe is what I came up with...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5ksxgB1eztUtYxvV9B6zG3jPbeoZRVEb0XepLVXiPPVI-CO_YdvGQGVkhcB4o2E462DVT0Y0VqAp7NQq8OmUUeyB1RnJU4Pm9e0LrYq5MhW_LrCFv2Knob7iGTFru4MRiOJPv_U3hPE2/s1600/B+L+U+E+B+E+R+R+Y+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc5ksxgB1eztUtYxvV9B6zG3jPbeoZRVEb0XepLVXiPPVI-CO_YdvGQGVkhcB4o2E462DVT0Y0VqAp7NQq8OmUUeyB1RnJU4Pm9e0LrYq5MhW_LrCFv2Knob7iGTFru4MRiOJPv_U3hPE2/s1600/B+L+U+E+B+E+R+R+Y+(1).png" height="268" width="320" /></a></div>
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It has worked so well for me that I gave it (along with an aroma-inhaler) to my dad to help with his allergies and ihe noticed an immediate difference. Since then, I've shared it on a few Facebook groups I participate in geared towards aromatherapy and several people have come back and told me how much success they've had with it.</div>
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<b>How it works --</b></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"> Green Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) is high in monoterpenes which are known for being effective airborne deodorizers and respiratory decongestants. Green Mandarin is also known for its sedative properties. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has a long, documented history of helping with sleep and decreasing stress which makes it great for any kind of night time sleep blend. Lavender is high in esters and monoterpenols. Esters are known for their anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and sedative capabilities. Esters are also adaptogenic which is why Lavender helps the body deal with stress. Monoterpenols are also antispasmodic and have been shown to help with immune boosting.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Cedarwood (Cedrus deodara) has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a mucolytic, meaning it works to break down mucous.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Blue Tansy (Tanacetum annuum) contains a number of ketones and monoterpenes. It's therapeutic actions include being an immune stimulant, being anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and a mucolytic.</li>
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Another bonus to these (and most essential oils) essential oils is that they all have anti-septic, antiviral and bactericidal properties.</div>
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*If you would like to learn more about chemical constituents in essential oils, check out the chemical family page on <a href="http://www.aromaticsinternational.com/index.php?route=product/shopby&path=36&menu=true&q=chem_fam" target="_blank">Aromatics International.</a>*</div>
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<b>How I use it --</b></div>
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I use my spray nightly. Before getting into bed, I spray down the pillows and linens. I also spray the curtains right next to my side of the bed just to be on the safe side. :-)<br />
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If you give this linen spray a try, let me know how it works for you in the comments below! :-D</div>
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<b>Have a wonderful day!</b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; text-align: start;">As always - I am sharing with you things that have worked for my family and friends. While I am passionate about herbalism, natural health and aromatherapy, I am </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; text-align: start;">NOT</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px; text-align: start;"> a trained professional. I am not here to diagnose or as a substitute for your primary care provider (PCP). You should discuss all natural treatments with your PCP. </span></b></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-74155714728797954712014-10-06T20:50:00.001-04:002014-10-07T05:52:57.374-04:00Ginger Tincture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fall is now upon us which means it is, again, that magical time of year that involves loads and loads of celebrations with friends and family, comfort foods that remind us of our childhoods and holidays past, mulled drinks to keep us warm and, inevitably, upset stomachs from overindulging.</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Ginger Tincture is our go-to for all stomach related issues. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Here's how you make it -- </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZuv5n1fe1IfySE6CB1m4lrWsedavsKecyJ6nHg_qDhapf0wkTVoFNfvRHNmtC134rLLCBRMAauhEcjNrmTrfLEz8mOcvOWtJGFyuACr5Hxixbv28K2RedCeXOF2pUnygbh5NetU05-LH/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZuv5n1fe1IfySE6CB1m4lrWsedavsKecyJ6nHg_qDhapf0wkTVoFNfvRHNmtC134rLLCBRMAauhEcjNrmTrfLEz8mOcvOWtJGFyuACr5Hxixbv28K2RedCeXOF2pUnygbh5NetU05-LH/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ingredients - Fresh Ginger Root, 100 Proof Vodka, Quart Size Mason Jar</b></td></tr>
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Use a spoon to scrap the skin off of your ginger root. If you've never worked with ginger before, the skin is paper thin and will come off with little to no effort. After your ginger root is peeled, slice it up and place it in your mason jar. I fill my jar about 3/4 way full with ginger slices and cover with with your vodka. <b>NOTE</b> - You could throw the vodka and ginger in a Vitamix or food processor if you wanted. I have never done so because fresh ginger is relatively soft and peeling and slicing provide plenty of surface area. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZuv5n1fe1IfySE6CB1m4lrWsedavsKecyJ6nHg_qDhapf0wkTVoFNfvRHNmtC134rLLCBRMAauhEcjNrmTrfLEz8mOcvOWtJGFyuACr5Hxixbv28K2RedCeXOF2pUnygbh5NetU05-LH/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWXRYb9mS_ZS18gaPPLZ16MF3pOKd3sreDsVj9x4MplJ9wn0T5Ty-cw6jnXcmb9SnKWypkldUw5bgR3_NoG4a1LXQoW-Z8IbCgt4ElLMXAGSCmCriP05V54PHx8ZXNkW_yBuRIx1gPjJ4/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWXRYb9mS_ZS18gaPPLZ16MF3pOKd3sreDsVj9x4MplJ9wn0T5Ty-cw6jnXcmb9SnKWypkldUw5bgR3_NoG4a1LXQoW-Z8IbCgt4ElLMXAGSCmCriP05V54PHx8ZXNkW_yBuRIx1gPjJ4/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>All jarred up!</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYPIWcNB7wsqu7Sm0cRAKQJnxVUv1ejy8Ko96vKg0_GEo86pvnWY-6_wqYbaSas8Gc9utXU_KUZxpv7ClmFCvLK60Gs5Wzg9K8gDU0VLOKOgWs7Cyjpqfd7jcyQwnWRHexEED-ewAT0jF/s1600/photo+1+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYPIWcNB7wsqu7Sm0cRAKQJnxVUv1ejy8Ko96vKg0_GEo86pvnWY-6_wqYbaSas8Gc9utXU_KUZxpv7ClmFCvLK60Gs5Wzg9K8gDU0VLOKOgWs7Cyjpqfd7jcyQwnWRHexEED-ewAT0jF/s1600/photo+1+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Do not forget to leave about an inch of head space!</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dLr3uN-SkCr5QfMKrtrw2Pmbf64jxGI3dkg7B44qbVX4XEYde9nsmopnZJDuUxkZp9criY8hVZCPJznGHbEADX4s8p9xk_DOgUZQQdBpuYyq1PCVuktiuGRWsiuvNrbdzwrghBogThB6/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dLr3uN-SkCr5QfMKrtrw2Pmbf64jxGI3dkg7B44qbVX4XEYde9nsmopnZJDuUxkZp9criY8hVZCPJznGHbEADX4s8p9xk_DOgUZQQdBpuYyq1PCVuktiuGRWsiuvNrbdzwrghBogThB6/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Don't forget to label your tincture!!!!</b></td></tr>
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Store your tincture in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Be sure to shake the jar everyday for the first week and check that the ginger is covered by the vodka.</div>
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When your 4-6 weeks is up, strain your tincture through cheesecloth or unbleached muslin and store in a dropper bottle such as this....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXofzy6pG_yrF4nBZItP0dODkxcwahbxNQnFOSdcFtepQ3_9s2A4IVqrStkbHg6pkgMw-PZtk9yIwx7Fb1bqTu7J0XayFUhwNRUyulLw06AxHteoDpWcQrPpQStqZIkoF4cRVId0m8SsC/s1600/bra2d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXofzy6pG_yrF4nBZItP0dODkxcwahbxNQnFOSdcFtepQ3_9s2A4IVqrStkbHg6pkgMw-PZtk9yIwx7Fb1bqTu7J0XayFUhwNRUyulLw06AxHteoDpWcQrPpQStqZIkoF4cRVId0m8SsC/s1600/bra2d.jpg" /></a></div>
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Eric and I usually take two droppers full as needed either straight or mixed in tea or water. For the kids, we use 1 dropper full.</div>
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How it works -- </div>
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According to The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White, M.D. and Steven Foster, "Ginger stimulates digestions and dispels gas. It also helps move food through the intestinal tract and reduces irritation." Ginger is able to do this due to two chemical constituents, gingerols and shogaols. </div>
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The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook by James A. Duke, Ph.D says the following about the actions of gingerols and shogaols, "It's gingerols and shogaols quell stomach upset and gently but effectively encourage the muscle contractions that move food through your intestines. At the same time, oddly enough, they inhibit spasms, curb diarrhea and deter the urge to vomit." </div>
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While most resources list ginger are being safe for consumption, the University of Maryland Medical Center list the following precautions and possible interactions:<br />
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Precautions</h2>
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The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine. </div>
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It's rare to have side effects from ginger. In high doses it may cause mild heartburn, diarrhea, and irritation of the mouth. You may be able to avoid some of the mild stomach side effects, such as belching, heartburn, or stomach upset, by taking ginger supplements in capsules or taking ginger with meals. </div>
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People with gallstones should ask their doctor before taking ginger. Make sure to tell your doctor if you are taking ginger before having surgery or being placed under anesthesia for any reason. </div>
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with heart conditions and people with diabetes should not take ginger without asking their doctors. </div>
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Do not take ginger if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are taking blood-thinning medications, including aspirin.</div>
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Possible Interactions </h2>
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Ginger may interact with prescription and nonprescription medications. If you take any of the following medications, you should not use ginger without first talking to your health care provider. </div>
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<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Blood-thinning medications</strong> -- Ginger may increase the risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking ginger if you take blood-thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), or aspirin. </div>
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<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Diabetes medications</strong> -- Ginger may lower blood sugar. That can raise the risk of developing hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. </div>
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<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">High blood pressure medications</strong> -- Ginger may lower blood pressure, raising the risk of low blood pressure or irregular heartbeat.</div>
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 10px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />Source: <a href="http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/ginger#ixzz3FPoXPaFA" style="color: #003399; text-decoration: none;">Ginger | University of Maryland Medical Center</a> <a href="http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/ginger#ixzz3FPoXPaFA" style="color: #003399; text-decoration: none;">http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/ginger#ixzz3FPoXPaFA</a><br />University of Maryland Medical Center</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">As always - I am sharing with you things that have worked for my family and friends. While I am passionate about herbalism, natural health and aromatherapy, I am </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">NOT</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"> a trained professional. I am not here to diagnose or as a substitute for your primary care provider (PCP). You should discuss all natural treatments with your PCP. </span></span><br />
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Are you going to make a ginger tincture for your family? Do you already use it? If so, how does it work for you? Let me know in the comments below!<br />
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<b>HAVE A GREAT EVENING!</b></div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-14405244999867102362014-09-25T05:30:00.000-04:002014-09-25T05:31:07.816-04:00Adventures in Kombucha<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In a continued</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> effort to boost the overall health of the family, I got the<b><i> bright</i></b> idea to try my hand at Kombucha.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you aren't familiar with Kombucha, check out <a href="http://www.foodrenegade.com/kombucha-health-benefits/" target="_blank">this</a> article from <a href="http://www.foodrenegade.com/" target="_blank">Food Renegade</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After researching the pros and cons of making kombucha at home versus purchasing pre-bottled kombucha, I bought this kit through Amazon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuS4NL6LXdi4h_9TOBsbjHV18PK84wCbeSKLobQyLO4oqyNnbGIhjX1ITKGSsJ2s4zPMslmpFajuc3rrbjR_T09js2ag0Yjgag24wC0gCAb0oD8Bwhbb-0plfMPZ-uLysGGlubMj5DY2hA/s1600/41d2Iu33J5L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuS4NL6LXdi4h_9TOBsbjHV18PK84wCbeSKLobQyLO4oqyNnbGIhjX1ITKGSsJ2s4zPMslmpFajuc3rrbjR_T09js2ag0Yjgag24wC0gCAb0oD8Bwhbb-0plfMPZ-uLysGGlubMj5DY2hA/s1600/41d2Iu33J5L.jpg" height="320" width="160" /></a></span></div>
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After about a week and a half my kombucha looked like this</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8cgBI9O5ZHniQuxiCpRi2EtPr_w9UvEoIvxS8VRNUBX2SV5X9lOU5qNzrMAbwSJ5XPT23r5V3vFd9D2BydcUoEHxxmNtnIqy06gfbbJrSyJ0lnqhlokqZuarGWATQH7QkTTz4pnvIcZi/s1600/10373504_10153124956719045_8237831852355553059_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8cgBI9O5ZHniQuxiCpRi2EtPr_w9UvEoIvxS8VRNUBX2SV5X9lOU5qNzrMAbwSJ5XPT23r5V3vFd9D2BydcUoEHxxmNtnIqy06gfbbJrSyJ0lnqhlokqZuarGWATQH7QkTTz4pnvIcZi/s1600/10373504_10153124956719045_8237831852355553059_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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and it tasted like lemon tea. </div>
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I wasn't sure if it had gone bad or not so I sought out the advice of friends who have way more experience than I do. It was decided to give it a few days, taste it again and bottle it.</div>
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Things seemed to be going well. After three days, all of the sugar taste was gone so I bottled it but it never carbonated and then the SCOBY started getting weird.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgZx87vPsJLXY9cqoX2aH_CYcaK3xDAkvsWHUDu4rC9nBSxzrj7o6dW57k80owvVaBAPSWWAvyN12-RRG2wzI8h7CFKCD65Y4SupI1k5_CglrhDkmJq2sDTDZXK_bmietNJxlF4uh3odU/s1600/photo+2+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgZx87vPsJLXY9cqoX2aH_CYcaK3xDAkvsWHUDu4rC9nBSxzrj7o6dW57k80owvVaBAPSWWAvyN12-RRG2wzI8h7CFKCD65Y4SupI1k5_CglrhDkmJq2sDTDZXK_bmietNJxlF4uh3odU/s1600/photo+2+(10).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfp5fWPp2rD9lwQwWDRjDL1rzfZQ4RVmFTRPliwinXKIEP0pGQtFUKofCip4ERXfAi4AU6SAualf-9iNGgNuzpcEFVGsxhwV6fdt7nGilndOM026G9OeCvsw6iCUlE1gBE9k2aSevOhil/s1600/photo+3+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfp5fWPp2rD9lwQwWDRjDL1rzfZQ4RVmFTRPliwinXKIEP0pGQtFUKofCip4ERXfAi4AU6SAualf-9iNGgNuzpcEFVGsxhwV6fdt7nGilndOM026G9OeCvsw6iCUlE1gBE9k2aSevOhil/s1600/photo+3+(6).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
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Long and short, I ruined my scoby. I have NO IDEA what I did wrong. :-( The only thing I can think of is maybe it had something to do with only getting a small piece of SCOBY in the kit, rather than a whole one.</div>
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I want to try it again but I think next time I will see if I can convince one of my friends to give me a SCOBY rather than buying another kit.</div>
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So, all you Kombucha aficionados out there if you have any ideas on how I messed up something that seemed super easy, let me know in the comments!</div>
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Have a great day!</div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-89543288820904731982014-09-23T10:01:00.000-04:002014-09-24T03:33:35.439-04:00Garlic and Mullein Ear Oil<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I decided to start taking a more natural approach to our health, this was one of the first items I learned to make. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a child, I suffered from chronic ear infections and I remembered my mom using Sweet Oil in my ears because it always seemed to take the pain away. As I begun researching Sweet Oil, I came across articles about using garlic ear drops instead. I was immediately sold for no other reason than I always have fresh garlic on hand which meant that when late night ear pain hit, I wouldn't have to worry about whether or not I had forgotten that I ran out of Sweet Oil at some point.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Before we jump into the recipe itself, lets talk about the ingredients a bit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Garlic </b>- Garlic is a part of our everyday lives. We eat it in all manner of foods and those of us who know the healing ability of this food make a concerted effort to consume even more of it than most folks. Garlics is said to be antimicrobial, antibiotic, antifungal, and immune-stimulant, anti-oxidant, diaphoretic, cholagogue, hypotensive, antispasmodic, anthelmintic, expectorant, anti-thrombotic and anti-diabetic. According to Practical Herbalism by Philip Fritchey, "In laboratory studies, Garlic has been shown to have direct anti-microbial actions equivalent to many antibiotic drugs, but without those drugs' tendency to create resistant strains of pathogens." In his book, Herbal Antibiotics - Natural Alternatives for Treating Drug-Resistant Bacteria, Stephen Harrod Buhner states, "Garlic is perhaps the most extensively tested herb in the world; in vitro, in vivo and human trials have shown its powerful effectiveness against bacterial and viral infectious agents." <br /><br /><b>Mullein</b> - This you may not be as familiar with but I am willing those of us who live in the United States have seen it growing along the road and in fields. Mullein's actions are said to be expectorant, demulcent, emollient, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, antispasmodic, vulnerary, alternative, astringent, pectoral, nutritive, antiseptic, hemostatic, anodyne, narcotic, anti-asthmatic, germicide and vermicide. Studies are not available to show the efficacy of Mullein against earaches and infections but it has long been used in folk medicine as a treatment for both. It is likely that its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties are the key players in its usefulness against problematic ears.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>ON TO THE RECIPE!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1 head of garlic</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>.75 ounces of mullein leaves </b><a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/mullein-leaf/profile" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>4oz Oil (approx)</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgoxfUeIfIGkaQer8T58s1IpMAnW0FqWeEHAIsiZZhb5hznGfv0Cm7aUrSh13rckhkhyphenhyphen2bxAk45ezSf72WZr4UooSmNH6oRM12iQ9bPJy6-laIsrrP_haFrj01Ts9ezF-0ca38339n5-4/s1600/photo+1+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgoxfUeIfIGkaQer8T58s1IpMAnW0FqWeEHAIsiZZhb5hznGfv0Cm7aUrSh13rckhkhyphenhyphen2bxAk45ezSf72WZr4UooSmNH6oRM12iQ9bPJy6-laIsrrP_haFrj01Ts9ezF-0ca38339n5-4/s1600/photo+1+(10).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ignore the scale. <br />
I grabbed this shot before I finished weighing out the Mullein.</td></tr>
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<b>The Process is very straight forward.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFQyvSvGyvOBSk2arJamJ-z4EwotevIpkS2gemTJc-7Z3qeY9xFVAg-AyuNGIWg452fNZZUxi7zEg4hnb4TlB7W9aTvRvf9zXzWDYj5xscZLOltuiTvMQCQ8dDNZ3jrZtFfhyHlV59s2w/s1600/photo+2+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFQyvSvGyvOBSk2arJamJ-z4EwotevIpkS2gemTJc-7Z3qeY9xFVAg-AyuNGIWg452fNZZUxi7zEg4hnb4TlB7W9aTvRvf9zXzWDYj5xscZLOltuiTvMQCQ8dDNZ3jrZtFfhyHlV59s2w/s1600/photo+2+(9).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peel and crush your garlic. There is no need to chop it up.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGhO2fl5WKO1COjHqq6OZXG8KdcM5HIK7-42_6usFD3gyGY3xGg3Y2RfCRusr9wni4KAJ9uGvv_W0oYLxx2gmRSzEFA7zEIYdLDamIcmV_2AkOq83t_v9xX5x8ujvn90mF6MvjMuykGsW/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGhO2fl5WKO1COjHqq6OZXG8KdcM5HIK7-42_6usFD3gyGY3xGg3Y2RfCRusr9wni4KAJ9uGvv_W0oYLxx2gmRSzEFA7zEIYdLDamIcmV_2AkOq83t_v9xX5x8ujvn90mF6MvjMuykGsW/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Combine Mullein, Garlic and Oil in a food processor. <br />
How much oil you need will depend on how dry your Mullein is.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, you may be wondering why the food processor. This is a little trick I learned in an Herbalism 101 Course I took through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DivineJourneys" target="_blank">Divine Journeys</a>.Mullein is a very fluffy plant. Processing it ensures that everything gets covered in the oil without having to use more oil than necessary. You can choose to either cut it up by hand into smaller pieces or even skip this step. Even if you have to add extra oil, your ear oil will still be effective.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHR3lkn4Nldqvh-yWHEAgx-4XagfRcTp8BXRaEheV0M8iMfBMxsFf0suII_UePFNTt6RcLZuf1xKvPYklcm16RIwUOxx6JALtvv12UgIcB41st6xXYjv7UIe57DW3KHcrVmE_7WZMRfpS/s1600/photo+1+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHR3lkn4Nldqvh-yWHEAgx-4XagfRcTp8BXRaEheV0M8iMfBMxsFf0suII_UePFNTt6RcLZuf1xKvPYklcm16RIwUOxx6JALtvv12UgIcB41st6xXYjv7UIe57DW3KHcrVmE_7WZMRfpS/s1600/photo+1+(9).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pour into a glass jar with a tight fitting lid.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At this step you are going to want to add about an inch of oil for head space. This will help keep the herbs covered and decrease the risk of your oil molding.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjAvvtIdxVI1HiXkl3XSrT_rM3HgG7JFXqDLVXdhnkibcysWWoLbrmBDxh0wFmF0eAtT4ebuJYMFtWo7eLh-dz3b9oZ5XAyzUbzMG5zsUSA0D1-66eZ_YPJKdqTJE6kMRHEUAqjLQ3XvY/s1600/photo+2+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjAvvtIdxVI1HiXkl3XSrT_rM3HgG7JFXqDLVXdhnkibcysWWoLbrmBDxh0wFmF0eAtT4ebuJYMFtWo7eLh-dz3b9oZ5XAyzUbzMG5zsUSA0D1-66eZ_YPJKdqTJE6kMRHEUAqjLQ3XvY/s1600/photo+2+(8).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Label your concoction!! I can't tell you how many things I have had to throw out <br />
because I just knew I wouldn't forget what it was. I was wrong!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once your oil is labeled you can do 1-2 things. You can sun infuse your oil. This entails placing your oil into direct sunlight generally for 24-72 hours, allowing the heat from the sun to infuse the oil with the herbal constituents. Though 24-72 hours is the general time frame for sun infusions, I let my sun infusions sit for a week. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You could also cold infuse your oil. To do so, you just place your jar in a cool, dark place being sure to shake it once a day for the first week. With this type of infusion, your oil will be ready in 4-6 weeks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Regardless which infusion method you choose, the last step is the same. Strain your oil through unbleached muslin or several layers of cheesecloth (Mullein has tiny hairs that can be irritating if left in), place into a dark colored, glass bottle and label.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>How I administer - </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 glass dropper full to the affected ear, twice daily for a week. If both ears are affected, allow 2-3 minutes between ears to ensure the oil has made it down the canal. After the oil is applied to the ear, place a warmed (NOT hot) cotton ball in the ear or have them lay down with a warmed rice pillow over their ear.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>NOTES - </b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>You do not need Mullein for this oil to be effective. Some people even use Calendula in place of or along with the Mullein.</li>
<li>This is <b>NOT </b>appropriate for pain related to water in the ears. In fact, using this oil in that case can cause molding in the ear.</li>
<li>Without treatment, many earaches and infections will resolve themselves. However, if you notice a worsening of the symptoms or there is no improvement after a week see your primary care provider (PCP).</li>
<li>If you or your child suffer from chronic ear infections, you may find a chiropractic realignment helpful.</li>
<li>If the ears are draining, there is hearing loss or bleeding from the ears <b>DO NOT</b> use this oil. Instead, contact your primary care provider (PCP).</li>
<li>Always remember - I am sharing with you things that have worked for my family and friends. While I am passionate about herbalism, natural health and aromatherapy, I am <b>NOT</b> a trained professional. I am not here to diagnose or as a substitute for your primary care provider (PCP). You should discuss all natural treatments with your PCP. </li>
</ul>
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<b>HAVE A GREAT DAY!</b><b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Questions? Comments? Share them below!</b></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-36127941311267335542014-09-22T07:17:00.000-04:002014-09-22T07:36:16.526-04:00*Product Review - GreenAir AromaMister Diffuser*I was first introduced to <a href="http://newgreenair.com/" target="_blank">GreenAir</a> when I purchased my very first diffuser, their <a href="http://newgreenair.com/serenity--zen.html" target="_blank">Serenity UltraSonic Diffuser</a>. Since then I have also become acquainted with their <a href="http://newgreenair.com/usb.html" target="_blank">USB Aroma Diffuser</a> and their <a href="http://newgreenair.com/aroma-jewelry.html" target="_blank">aromatherapy necklaces</a>.<br />
<br />
I have really enjoyed all of their products thus far so I was very excited when the opportunity to review another GreenAir diffuser presented itself.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://newgreenair.com/aromamister.html" target="_blank">AromaMister Ultrasonic Diffuser</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbmR_HGbyRGpxQgYmepgEyx5KfHo8RPv881ovJ2sbn3jY851BJ58Ua8HPAppTB3jKUQgNVGd3irQseQi9vSQ82hVsoPPoFSOnP2YXcp_t2M1sltH3SLzkK8LVVwbakKuRR-xoBpVaV6Ke/s1600/91NWvVZ+DhL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbmR_HGbyRGpxQgYmepgEyx5KfHo8RPv881ovJ2sbn3jY851BJ58Ua8HPAppTB3jKUQgNVGd3irQseQi9vSQ82hVsoPPoFSOnP2YXcp_t2M1sltH3SLzkK8LVVwbakKuRR-xoBpVaV6Ke/s1600/91NWvVZ+DhL._SL1500_.jpg" height="320" width="308" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Product Information - </b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><b>Six hour run time with auto-shut off</b></li>
<li><b>Holds 4.7 fl. oz. of water</b></li>
<li><b>6 rotating LED lights (Blue, Green, Purple, Red)</b></li>
<li><b>Setting options - Off, Rotating Lights, Solid Color, No color</b></li>
<li><b>Coverage - 250 square feet</b></li>
<li><b>Voltage - 120V</b></li>
<li><b>Requires as few as 5 drops of essential oil</b></li>
</ul>
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When you open your AromaMister box you will find the instructions and three parts, the base, the dome top and the AC adapter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyB8oBr9MThyphenhyphenIjZ6rCu-83BHHWLw5HeqNdxQ79vOwy9LErEQCrKQQqaCw2-tWi7UEy08UnePcddcoRGTHGtj28Ho_rwKjSy6GeNopqbP4L2nTvH0R7m8dX-ivwCxaLnQ2OxoWlLuqee_PP/s1600/photo+3+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyB8oBr9MThyphenhyphenIjZ6rCu-83BHHWLw5HeqNdxQ79vOwy9LErEQCrKQQqaCw2-tWi7UEy08UnePcddcoRGTHGtj28Ho_rwKjSy6GeNopqbP4L2nTvH0R7m8dX-ivwCxaLnQ2OxoWlLuqee_PP/s1600/photo+3+(4).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQqlelZ4vXdUpVWvEaxO_Z_-v8bU0jDO9NO5xso8Gnam_S-Rj2XhItwjzQArPW8LrTuuiqgIChTQZIjPbcW6oaliNOJDg7UGiJmMfrQDPWF5cpdlt9sV7BG2gmub12kfgdwxSk1JF3sgnM/s1600/photo+1+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQqlelZ4vXdUpVWvEaxO_Z_-v8bU0jDO9NO5xso8Gnam_S-Rj2XhItwjzQArPW8LrTuuiqgIChTQZIjPbcW6oaliNOJDg7UGiJmMfrQDPWF5cpdlt9sV7BG2gmub12kfgdwxSk1JF3sgnM/s1600/photo+1+(6).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nqhIzKZ7yhpvYxqwWUd2lBMddxwVR4Hw6AkmAjo4ULG9RxBafx3Wir3kGZX5_ATKuI-aUhtT0oAjp26fVDhKV-HKw3fWrJUvlpfOccYhoa8yEw4xoI1g9kKnCsFU5pynYMdZpa_mesOT/s1600/photo+4+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nqhIzKZ7yhpvYxqwWUd2lBMddxwVR4Hw6AkmAjo4ULG9RxBafx3Wir3kGZX5_ATKuI-aUhtT0oAjp26fVDhKV-HKw3fWrJUvlpfOccYhoa8yEw4xoI1g9kKnCsFU5pynYMdZpa_mesOT/s1600/photo+4+(1).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
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There are no special tools required for assembly. Simply plug in the adapter, put regular tap water into the base, add your essential oils, set the top on the base and turn it on. <b>Note</b> - The top does not secure to the base.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2FPT2LK2SGzKTHMvZehxo6hHrJUtJjpm6UeK_PTUbl4UnnWn1w27jV4azmXuBbpxs0WT9AEo-B4FwO7saEuZC9oxoZ6qmDYs0UQqx2-LFBwaN2PRBJwZsq75y121q83eViYPWlZjocFh/s1600/photo+1+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2FPT2LK2SGzKTHMvZehxo6hHrJUtJjpm6UeK_PTUbl4UnnWn1w27jV4azmXuBbpxs0WT9AEo-B4FwO7saEuZC9oxoZ6qmDYs0UQqx2-LFBwaN2PRBJwZsq75y121q83eViYPWlZjocFh/s1600/photo+1+(5).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0pVJs04-1R96LebWIInyG4bvQl9L51Sm14yIj21s9ob4L-nQte6ZFgHhRyBn9SXJVl_N-vawANjm76Go6NnRQL8KfpI2zNRyeo2NWE0VM7dqXstzEhJdVDBhFfirlOU9vN5ORhSES9Qm1/s1600/photo+1+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0pVJs04-1R96LebWIInyG4bvQl9L51Sm14yIj21s9ob4L-nQte6ZFgHhRyBn9SXJVl_N-vawANjm76Go6NnRQL8KfpI2zNRyeo2NWE0VM7dqXstzEhJdVDBhFfirlOU9vN5ORhSES9Qm1/s1600/photo+1+(8).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLvEt8ZO-vKxFgCq2EEU8jMtBMzm2h4mPJl9CRsvXFtjl3XiAdYerzrd4ysUZYXLqZFcpH-INqZQgirW9FEhFpVDCe_DuOVHTgS7aKdyj8CV5NNdB69Xwpr2AzO0ov97aBmWDbpnnG2w7/s1600/photo+3+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXE48ogmuK_f7WqxoBzffKNPJQA4cka4ZgMUW0Elb80YSyqG1jlP5LEgUz-ugPEyuiwA69-Dgk-zdAQfLsBags5WAeZ2yMoZVNySAhdUFWUe5zvKdLhvGg4lIN0-MY_ZEs4Tpx6IDEZwIZ/s1600/photo+2+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXE48ogmuK_f7WqxoBzffKNPJQA4cka4ZgMUW0Elb80YSyqG1jlP5LEgUz-ugPEyuiwA69-Dgk-zdAQfLsBags5WAeZ2yMoZVNySAhdUFWUe5zvKdLhvGg4lIN0-MY_ZEs4Tpx6IDEZwIZ/s1600/photo+2+(5).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLvEt8ZO-vKxFgCq2EEU8jMtBMzm2h4mPJl9CRsvXFtjl3XiAdYerzrd4ysUZYXLqZFcpH-INqZQgirW9FEhFpVDCe_DuOVHTgS7aKdyj8CV5NNdB69Xwpr2AzO0ov97aBmWDbpnnG2w7/s1600/photo+3+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLvEt8ZO-vKxFgCq2EEU8jMtBMzm2h4mPJl9CRsvXFtjl3XiAdYerzrd4ysUZYXLqZFcpH-INqZQgirW9FEhFpVDCe_DuOVHTgS7aKdyj8CV5NNdB69Xwpr2AzO0ov97aBmWDbpnnG2w7/s1600/photo+3+(3).JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Pros - </span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><b>Reasonably priced - If you've spent anytime researching diffusers, you know that prices range greatly. This is great for anyone whether they are just getting into essential oils or if they've been using them for a long time.</b></li>
<li><b>Easy to use - From box to on, literally takes less than 5 minutes.</b></li>
<li><b>Easy to clean</b></li>
<li><b>Uses regular tap water - The minerals in tap water are actually vital to the ultrasonic function of this diffuser. The essential oils are broken down to smaller particles that attach to the minerals in the water and then are dispersed through the air.</b></li>
<li><b>Quiet</b></li>
<li><b>Lightweight </b></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Cons - </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><b>Top does not secure to base - If you have little ones, cats or accident prone people in your home, you definitely want to keep this out of arms reach. On a positive note, if it does get knocked over the mess won't be too big since it only holds 4.7 fl. oz. of water.</b></li>
<li><b>Lack of interval options - I wish there was other time settings available as I prefer not to run a diffuser more than 60 minutes at a time as is recommended by many aromatherapist. However, that doesn't stop me from using it. I just make an effort to remember to turn it off regularly. I do have it on good authority that GreenAir is working on a product that will have an option for more frequent auto-shut offs.</b></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion - </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>I really do love this diffuser. I *might* even love it more than my Serenity diffuser. :-) I would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for a diffuser. I look forward to seeing what other products they develop in the future.</b></div>
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<b>Interested in GreenAir? Find them here:</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>GreenAir Online - http://newgreenair.com/index.html</b></div>
<div>
<b>GreenAir Blog - http://newgreenair.com/blog.html<br />Find GreenAir on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/newgreenair</b></div>
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<b>What reviews would you like to see in the future? Let me know below!</b><br />
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<b>Don't forget that I am giving away a GreenAir USB AromaDiffuser when I reach 50 subscribers!! </b><br />
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<b><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppRj-Eb5wbCIslJAsyXPzk8kWHYG2hlg6uQFd4OMT7c-rgEHGmFdxEJGVW42NgYUl6N7tfD65j1hNu9JLXzbBID8QhGsOlpFhOFRkr_pAJybx_rsKXGS4CX-fmIfzs_LvqEp5os-XYXVt/s1600/i+n+t+o+x+i+c+a+t+e.png" height="240" width="320" /></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2014/09/help-us-get-50-subscribers-and-win.html" target="_blank">Subscribe now!</a></b></div>
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<b>Have a great day!</b></div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-18063630125200090062014-09-22T05:58:00.000-04:002014-09-22T07:37:23.942-04:002014-2015 Curriculum Choices and ScheduleI was asked to share our curriculum, why I chose it and schedule for this school year. So, without further ado....<br />
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<b>Math</b> - Math in Focus (Singapore-style Math) <a href="http://www.rainbowresource.com/searchspring.php?q=math+in+focus" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>History</b> - History Odyssey (The Ancients 1 for Abbie and Noah, The Ancients 2 for Bryce) <a href="http://www.pandiapress.com/?page_id=64" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a> <a href="http://www.pandiapress.com/?page_id=103#level1" target="_blank">Try Before You Buy</a><br />
<b>US Studies </b>- 50 States and Where to Find Them <a href="http://barefootmeandering.com/site/bookstore/#america" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>Handwriting</b> - Cursive Copy Work, Nature Quotes <a href="http://www.currclick.com/product/65106/158-Nature-Quotes-Cursive-Handwriting-CopyWork-Book" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>Science</b> - R.E.A.L Science Odyssey <a href="http://www.pandiapress.com/?page_id=50" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a> <a href="http://www.pandiapress.com/?page_id=20" target="_blank">Try Before You Buy</a><br />
<b>Spelling</b> - All About Spelling <a href="http://www.allaboutlearningpress.com/all-about-spelling/" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>Grammar/Writing</b> - Igniting Your Writing (Start-up for Abbie and Noah, Intermediate for Bryce) <a href="http://www.currclick.com/product/932/Igniting-Your-Writing?it=1" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>Reading</b> - Explode the Code and book of choice (Abbie and Noah), Book of choice (Bryce) <a href="http://www.explodethecode.com/" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
<b>Spanish</b> - Mango Languages (Bryce only) <a href="http://www.mangolanguages.com/" target="_blank">Where to Buy</a><br />
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This is our second year using Math in Focus and we couldn't be happier with it. Singapore math has worked well with all three kids, regardless of their varying learning styles. The kids actually look forward to math everyday which says a lot to me.<br />
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I decided to try History Odyssey after hearing people rave about it online. So far, we are loving it. It is a great mix of reading, writing and hands on activities. It is still early but I have a feeling we will be staying with History Odyssey for years to come.<br />
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I got my hands on 50 States and Where to Find Them last year during a promo the blogger who created the curriculum was having. Due to poor planning on my part, we didn't get through as much of it as I would have like and in a way I would have preferred so we are restarting it this year. This is also a great combination of reading as well as hands on activities and it is easy to add to it with videos such as Liberty Kids and How the States Got Their Shapes.<br />
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Handwriting or rather setting aside time specifically for the sole purpose of practicing handwriting seems to divide the homeschool community equally into two groups.....those who do and those who do not. I was previously a do not as I felt like the kids received plenty of practice through other subjects. I was also wary about setting aside time for additional practice because when I had done so previously, it was a huge source of anxiety and frustration for Noah and that was not something I was in a hurry to experience again. However, when the kids began showing interest in cursive I decided it was time to add handwriting to our curriculum. I am so glad I did. Bryce writes so much better in cursive than he ever did in print. He also writes faster. The Nature Quotes are great because we love nature and because it introduces the kids to famous writers, poets, screenwriters, painters, etc. that they have not been previously exposed to. Handwriting still isn't Noah's favorite subject and I except it never will be but he is not anxious or frustrated with it anymore.<br />
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This is also our second year with R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey. We love it! Pandia Press has really done a great job with balancing reading and hands on activities with all of their curriculum options. The lessons are simple enough that the kids don't get bogged down with details but fact based enough that the kids are genuinely learning scientific terminology and processes. It is also very easy to add on to with additional experiments, documentaries, Magic School Bus, lapbooks, etc. <br />
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This year is our first with All About Spelling. All About Spelling is based on teaching spelling rules rather than learning by memorization or word families/associations. We've attempted to teach the kids by memorization, word families/associations with no avail. When using All About Spelling, regardless of your child's reading ability, you must start at the very beginning to ensure they have a solid foundation and that they do not miss any rules that are taught in the earlier levels. We are currently more than half way done the first book. The kids are enjoying it and learning a lot. The curriculum works for all learning types which is great for us.<br />
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I chose Igniting Your Writing after it was recommended by several moms. I was looking for a way to make grammar and writing more fun as none of the kids really enjoyed the process of writing and grammar can often be very dull. Each level of Igniting Your Writing offers three levels of course load based on your child's level (Start-up, Intermediate and Advanced). We initially set out to have Bryce to do the Advanced level which entailed completely the Start-up and Intermediate activities and then an Advanced activities but at this time we are finding it to be too much. Not because he doesn't understand the work but because it requires so much time to complete the work so for now he is doing the Start-up and Intermediate levels. <br />
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Explode the Code is a favorite in our house. This is our second year and we will continue with until completion. Prior to Explode the Code I worried constantly that Noah would never become a reader. This is not something I worry about any longer. We use the online version of the curriculum as I thought Noah would be more receptive to it if I wasn't adding one more book to his curriculum and it seems to have worked. Last year I created a reading list for Bryce because I thought it would be helpful to encourage him to expand his taste in literature but I ended up dealing with a fair bit of resistance on his part. For this year, we have agreed that he can choose the books he wants to read as long as he is not reading books he has previously read. So far this seems to be working. We are about a month into the school year and he has read more than a dozen books.<br />
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Since Bryce is officially a middle schooler this year I decided it was time for him to begin a foreign language. We attempted to introduce foreign language earlier but he wasn't interested and it became more of a frustration than anything so we stopped. I came across Mango when looking for alternatives to Rosetta Stone and couldn't help but give it a try when I learned they offered a free, 14 day trial period. I like Mango because the languages are taught in a conversational manner which makes practice in the real world much easier. They also offer a wide variety of languages. The cost provides access to all languages, rather than purchasing one which is great for kids who aren't sure what they want to learn or want to learn a wide variety of languages. Mango is not very expensive and in fact, many libraries offer free usage to their card holders. So far Bryce seems to be enjoying to program and looks forward to his Spanish lessons.<br />
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Our school schedule is pretty straight forward, all subject are done 5 days a week with the exception of history and US Studies. They have history on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and US Studies on Tuesday and Thursday. We usually schedule one activity during the week with friends, often on a Tuesday or Thursday. On those days, we still have handwriting, reading and spelling and we will move US Studies to Saturday (per the kids' choice) as we are trying to complete it by spring.<br />
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We have found that the kids function a lot better when they get up early so their day begins at 6:30am. After they wake up it is chores, breakfast and then school. Between each subject they have a 5 min. break with the exception of lunch which is an hour break. After their school work is completed, they clean up and then their time is their own. Our schedule is more formal than many homeschoolers but I've found that this works best for us because the kids like the predictability of it. It also helps to reduce my stress level because I am not flying by the seat of my pants. ;-)<br />
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What curriculum choices did you make this year? What does your schedule look like? What do you do to fit in everything that is important to you?<br />
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<b>Have a great day!! </b></div>
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<br />Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-41074278966766918912014-09-18T09:15:00.000-04:002014-09-22T07:37:49.611-04:00Help us get 50 subscribers and win!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcI4ocv_WSUOS6KcAGVDSnmi_LLlFJ2UfSUx6zwWjAS9pjMVEbuFExyg4IkmnAFn5X5vf4MPz5mOYx7KkCIFuvDuH6dPVC41dE2eV6Q4WGCDFaPNCuoX0yuh0bUdNXco2peBb5hyVoWtL/s1600/i+n+t+o+x+i+c+a+t+e.png" height="300" width="400" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AromaDiffuser picture from - http://www.zundigo.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>AromaDiffuser Features:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Great for small places </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Uses a USB Port</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Offers two settings - Interval (Blue Light) and Continuous (Green Light</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Run Time - Up to 4.5 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Auto Shut-off</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Easy to Clean</span></div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-84024692541203528322014-09-16T05:49:00.001-04:002014-09-22T07:38:15.206-04:00Elderberry Syrup<div style="text-align: center;">
It's that time of the year again!</div>
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Cold and flu season which means for my family it is Elderberry Syrup Season. From mid-August to late March we go through gallons of elderberry syrup in order to keep the cooties at bay so I thought I would share my recipe with you.<br />
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<b>Here's what you need:</b></div>
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1 cup of dried organic elderberries</div>
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1/2 cup rose hips</div>
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4 cinnamon sticks</div>
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4 whole cloves</div>
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1 thumb size piece of fresh ginger sliced</div>
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1 cup of local, raw organic honey</div>
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4 cups of water</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrB7iYndjbyTRqR37pCxgGnf29hADz3zhGkIeegJ0otVgGYStzklLAxpDAiuODBpIEsN5mfrTFs_MP64v1EGJyhsL0mym2Tmo7B4-ZLL7B6uXqpwGG_BwHVvpqN38XHaFrMpBdAhDyLtF/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrB7iYndjbyTRqR37pCxgGnf29hADz3zhGkIeegJ0otVgGYStzklLAxpDAiuODBpIEsN5mfrTFs_MP64v1EGJyhsL0mym2Tmo7B4-ZLL7B6uXqpwGG_BwHVvpqN38XHaFrMpBdAhDyLtF/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients gathered</td></tr>
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<b>Here's what you need to do:</b></div>
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Combine all your ingredients (except the honey) into a pot and allow it to come to a boil. Once it has reached a boil turn it down and the mixture to simmer for one hour.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpYOCSlM-FMlTSBrUS0W9hnB-6PGHk5rCqF4kQDlDBuAeUx-P-ULucYaR1dUYk46L2tDumfl2NyJZp3qtuguCn-jqLmZ9aC8S08vlZ8A-eEE8TDvqUNATUxJ8-lWNHMxVCi5wth0j8Ig4/s1600/photo+2+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpYOCSlM-FMlTSBrUS0W9hnB-6PGHk5rCqF4kQDlDBuAeUx-P-ULucYaR1dUYk46L2tDumfl2NyJZp3qtuguCn-jqLmZ9aC8S08vlZ8A-eEE8TDvqUNATUxJ8-lWNHMxVCi5wth0j8Ig4/s1600/photo+2+(4).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before adding water.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUayPz-N2yhBhhU7_ND5IeaCJYWNqJIPLRXG_59bX2khCJwiCMYgZlZGYPqUkWyQgEr4By4BXmYiR1DOMXrwvBT6n3M7R2-s_HeutXODoiv01wHf80cH9Kr_mgk95r9IppGf2Of91spxAN/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUayPz-N2yhBhhU7_ND5IeaCJYWNqJIPLRXG_59bX2khCJwiCMYgZlZGYPqUkWyQgEr4By4BXmYiR1DOMXrwvBT6n3M7R2-s_HeutXODoiv01wHf80cH9Kr_mgk95r9IppGf2Of91spxAN/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"A watched pot never boils"</td></tr>
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After your ingredients have simmered for 1 hour, remove from heat and allow them to cool. They need to be cool enough for you to handle but warm enough to dissolve your honey.</div>
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Strain your ingredients into a bowl through cheese cloth, muslin or a fine mesh strainer. Once strained, add your honey. An important note about adding your honey - You do not want your syrup to be above 90 degrees fahrenheit as it will destroy the medicinal properties of the honey and you want all the "fighting power" you can get!</div>
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Once your honey is thoroughly dissolved, placed your syrup in an airtight container and store in the fridge. It can last up to two months in the fridge.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUom4k7Hha5mynnTv5M9ZDXpPGNJFh83Rh4jWVcGu_ETBz7-qFPGY4KEMZRp-nIzdt6LL-kaAfD1wM242qMeZwl_lFn2cxltubQb2NrfcwmyvI4KBwWJv_r9QxxgrxOMeAVJCzIx9T6sbN/s1600/10516821_10153060445099045_3592146103290013075_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUom4k7Hha5mynnTv5M9ZDXpPGNJFh83Rh4jWVcGu_ETBz7-qFPGY4KEMZRp-nIzdt6LL-kaAfD1wM242qMeZwl_lFn2cxltubQb2NrfcwmyvI4KBwWJv_r9QxxgrxOMeAVJCzIx9T6sbN/s1600/10516821_10153060445099045_3592146103290013075_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for the fridge.</td></tr>
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<b>Dosing</b> - If you are like me then you will likely notice that dosing on elderberry syrup is widely diverse. I believe the reason for this is because at the end of the day, elderberry syrup is a medicinal food. It is commonly used in jams, wines and toppings for pancakes and ice cream. This is how my family uses our syrup.</div>
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<b><b>Child Dose</b> - 3/4 ounce daily (preventative), 3/4-1 1/2 ounces three times daily during illness.</b></div>
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<b><b>Adult Dose</b> - 1 1/2 ounces daily (preventative), 3 ounces three times a day during illness.</b></div>
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*It should be noted that elderberry syrup can be taken for up to 6 weeks consecutively but it is recommended to stop taking it for a week or longer before resuming preventative dosing.*</div>
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<b>Contraindications/Concerns </b>- As elderberries help to increase immune function, it is important for those with auto-immune disorders to discuss the addition of elderberries with their primary care physician. Do not use on children under 12 months due to the honey content. Try making it with maple or brown rice syrup.</div>
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Elderberries and elderberry syrup are becoming very mainstream as we figure out different ways to combat viruses and stay healthy. As their popularity grows, more research is being done to prove their efficacy. </div>
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Elderberries work to boost immune function and prevent viruses from piercing cell walls, a necessary action for virus replication. </div>
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Because of their new found popularity, it is very easy to find commercial syrups at most local pharmacies and grocery stores. The problem I find is these syrups are very costly and many of them are made with sugar which does not help the body fighting illness. In fact, it can inhibit the immune system. </div>
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<b>Resources and more information</b> - http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/elderberry, https://www.planetherbs.com/specific-herbs/elder-sambucus-nigra.html, http://bearmedicineherbals.com/into-the-forest-exploring-elderberry.html, http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-rose-hip.html, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266069.php, http://www.naturalnews.com/035493_raw_honey_health_benefits_antibacterial.html </div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-75010104934461049302014-09-14T08:11:00.002-04:002014-09-14T08:11:24.960-04:00HUGE CHANGES AHEAD! Proceed with excitement! :-)<b>After much thought, I've decided to expand the purpose of my blog. As you may have noticed some changes have already been made but here are the other changes you can look forward to....<br /><br />~Herbalism related post. I consider myself a budding herbalist. I've been working with herbs for close to four years now and it is a big part of our lives and how I care for my family.<br /><br />~Aromatherapy related post. Aromatherapy is something I became interested in almost 2 years ago. It started with making bath and body products and has since morphed into using them in conjunction with herbs to treat various health concerns within our circle of family and friends.<br /><br />~FOOD! I love food. I love growing it and I especially love cooking and eating it. So expect some recipes in the future.<br /><br />~Our homestead adventures! That's right, we are planning to move within the next year to start our homestead. House buying, chickens, gardens, piggies....oh my!</b><br />
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<b>~Product reviews. Self-explanatory, right!?!?<br /><br />...and don't worry, if you are here for the homeschool post they are not going anywhere. :-)</b><br />
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<b><br />Is there something else you think I should cover in the blog? Let me know in the comments!!<br /></b><br />
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<b>HAVE A GREAT WEEK!</b></div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-51932483040763899082014-09-04T18:08:00.001-04:002014-09-04T18:08:14.703-04:00Keeping up with the Jones'.......Socially.I know! I am the most inconsistent blogger to ever hit the blogosphere. Can't help it folks, I can't sit here and "talk" to you just for the sake of talking. I need to have something to say and now I do. So here goes.....<br /><br />Now that many of us are starting our 2014-2015 school year the topic of balancing school work, social events and extracurricular activities is a popular one. Many of us are already stressed out and we've hardly begun. Just the thought of what future schedules may look like sends us frantically searching for a blanket to hide under.<br />
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Socialization is one of the biggest concerns and myths I see among homeschoolers. "How do you socialize your children?" "How can you expect your child to socialize in the real world if they are homeschooled?" "Am I socializing my children enough?" "How many activities are too much?" It goes on and on.<br />
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The face of homeschooling is ever evolving and I believe that it is likely that the awkward, unsocialized homeschooler myth we are commonly asked about stems from the days when most homeschoolers were ultra-conservative, religious families whose children did not socialize outside of their families and church.<br />
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It seems that in an effort to dissolve this image, we have given the pendulum a huge shove to the right. We are now super sizing our socialization efforts in order to ease questions and concerns from friends, family and strangers and maybe even trying to ease our own minds as well.<br />
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In doing so, many of us have gone overboard. We find ourselves spinning out of control with no sense of where we are or what damage we've left in our wake. To add insult to injury, we are now playing a game of keeping up with the Jones where with our fellow homeschoolers. "OMG, I must not be doing enough! Sue has her kids go to three activities a week, Jill has at least four field trips a week, not to mention soccer and ballet and Diane, I don't think she is ever home they are always doing so much!"<br /><br />Well, I'm here to say................<br /><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>STOP THE MADNESS!!!!!!!!</b></span></div>
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While we all may be homeschoolers, there is nothing....no law, code of conduct or blood pact that requires that we do things the same way. There is no secret homeschool board that is going to revoke your homeschooling permit because you don't socialize like everyone else.</div>
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I say this as someone who has fallen into the trap of trying to keep up. It left me irritated, unhappy and stressed. I sat down with myself one day and decided <b>ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!</b> Sue, Jill and Diane can run to their hearts content but that is not me. That is not within my abilities and trying to do it not only makes me miserable but makes my family miserable as well.</div>
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I refuse to spend another school year trying to fit it all in. As I wrote on our memo board, "School is priority #1!" Anything else, can and will wait. Right now we attend one activity during the school week with a small group of friends. Sometimes they are educational but more times than not they are completely social. There is something truly wonderful about sitting around with your closest girlfriends and watch your children simply be whomever they are in that moment. And guess what, it is enough. The kids are happy without being burnt out and so am I.</div>
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I urge each and every one of you to look at yourself, your family, your needs, interest and priorities and do whatever works best for you. Forget the Jones'. Forget the questions and concerns because the fact of the matter is they are never really going to go away. Remember the reasons you decided to home school and remember to have fun and do what you (as a family) love. <br /><br />I promise you, at the end of the year that you will be very happy and a little less crazy. <br /><br />And, if you are one of these families that can go, go go....keep going! Far be it of me to try to stop you! Just make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. <br /><br />Have a wonderful evening! </div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-38758026723436741922013-10-23T08:19:00.000-04:002013-10-23T08:19:01.342-04:00Bit of a rant and some help for a friend.....<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Grab a cup of coffee ladies and let's chat!</b></div>
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<b>If you know anything about me from reading this blog, you know I am candid. I don't mince words in real life and I don't do it here.</b><br />
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<b>My rant for the morning is this....I cannot stand the pedestal we place stay at home moms on! Yes, being a stay at home mom can be difficult. Yes, it does have value. Yes, we play an important role in the lives of our family.</b><br />
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<b>I know many stay at home moms feel unappreciated and unimportant. This is why we (generally speaking) will argue until we are blue in the face that being a stay at home mom is the most important job in the world and why we have lovely little "research" articles that tell us what our annual salary to help validate what we do everyday.<br /><br />Here's the problem with this....it creates this outlandish expectation that we as mothers place on ourselves and one another and when we can't meet those expectations we feel like failures. These feelings fester and turn into resentment and depression.</b><br />
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<b>Here's some truths for you.....</b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">1) Being a mom, any kind of mom, is hard work but also very rewarding.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">2) There is NOTHING in the rule book that says you have to do everything. There is no reason your spouse and children cannot help.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">3) Being a mom does not mean you have to be a martyr.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">4) Being a mom does not mean you have to have it all together. Even the ones who appear to have it all together are struggling with something.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">4) Lastly, no where in the definition of motherhood does the word 'perfect' come up!</span></b><br />
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<b>Want to be a great mom...no matter what kind of mom you are? Know your strengths and weaknesses, work with them, try the best you can, love as much as you can and <i><u>never give up</u></i>!</b><br />
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<b>Now, you are probably wondering what fueled this fire. Well, it is as simple as a Facebook message from a dear friend who is struggling mixed with comments from other friends and my own personal experience.</b></div>
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<b>I am as guilty as most mom's of trying to do everything and be all things to all people. It left me physically and emotionally exhausted, stressed and generally miserable to be around. It's one of the reasons I stopped working. Some people can balance work and home. I cannot. I either gave work my all or home my all but I never seemed to have enough for both.</b></div>
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<b>When I became a stay at home mom, I completely bought into the expectation that I had to do everything and do it with flair. I would do great for so long and then I would get resentful, miserable and stop doing everything all together. </b></div>
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<b>Are you noticing a theme here? Yes, I am one extreme or the other. It's the nature of this beast. The day I was to marry Eric, my dad told him to remember that I only have two speeds.....off and balls to the walls. Probably part of the reason I am half crazy. lol</b></div>
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<b>Anyway, I have been a stay at home mom for five years now and I've gone this back and fourth routine the whole time.</b></div>
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<b>Recently, I went through a bout of depression that was coupled with a nice panic attack and ended with me boo-hooing to my homeschooling moms at the park one day. I was trying to do it again, be all things to all people and I couldn't do it. The house was a disaster, I was losing control and didn't know what to do.</b></div>
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<b>That weekend I decided enough was enough. I enlisted the help of my family and we got the house to rights again and I took some time to figure out how to best run this house. I think I may have finally figured it out and I want to share it on the off chance that it helps someone else.</b></div>
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<b>This "routine" is based on one simple fact - <span style="color: red;">I HATE CLEANING!!!!</span></b></div>
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<b>The day you come to my house and it is completely spotless is the day that I've hired a live-in maid. I cannot stand cleaning. In the blink of an eye I can think of anything to weasel my way out of cleaning so I had to come up with a way to clean but not spend a lot of time doing it.</b></div>
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<b>If you've read my previous post, you know that I am the first one up in the morning which honestly helps....it not only helps get things done but it helps maintain my sanity because I have time to think when it is quiet.</b></div>
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<b>This is a rough rundown or my daily routine. I don't have it written down anywhere.</b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Get up (time varies everyday)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Turn on the coffee pot</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Take out the dog</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Start Eric's breakfast/fill the sink with hot water</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Make Eric's lunch</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Get Eric up/gather up yesterday's dirty laundry and throw it in the washer</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Have a cup of coffee with Eric</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Wash breakfast dishes</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Wipe down the kitchen counters</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Wipe down the bathrooms</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Feed the animals/Clean the litter boxes</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Mess around online for a while/do my 30-day plank challenge/take a shower/get dressed/toss laundry in the dryer and fold it</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">*Once the kids are up*</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Start breakfast while they clean up their rooms/make their beds/vacuum the house (I pick rooms for them at random)/put their laundry away</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Clean up from breakfast/get ready for school</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">*Once we start school, subjects are done in a random order that is on our dry erase board. After each subject, we take a 5 min or so break.*</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">While I'm making lunch the kids have free time.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Clean-up from lunch/get ready to finish school (if we aren't already done)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Once school is finished, all of their completed school work is put in the appropriate places and everything else put away, it is more free time for all of us until dinner. While I am cooking I will have them straighten up and vacuum everything again. After dinner, everyone helps put food away and sweep while I wash dishes (I've also started washing dishes while I cook....something my mother has been trying to get me to do for years. lol).</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Then it is more free time plus baths and then bed.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">On the weekends, when Eric is home...him and I will will work on two or three things that need deep cleaned and have the kids sort through some of their toy boxes to get rid of anything that is broken or doesn't belong in there. Eric mows on the weekends. He or one of the kids will dust also on the weekends for me because it sets my asthma off. I mop on the weekends or as needed (I tend to spot clean as I wipe things down in the morning).</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">I am averaging about a load of laundry a day during the week and two on Saturday and Sunday because I wash sheets.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">Our trash goes out on Tuesday nights and that's Bryce's job. He puts it out on the curb as soon as we get home from gymnastics so he doesn't have to think about it.</span></b></div>
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<b>Now, we have a small home so while it may seem like a lot of cleaning in the morning, it isn't. On mornings where I want to go back to bed after Eric leaves for work, I just split the chores up between the kids and I to make the morning go smoother/faster. Cleaning in small spurts is a big help to me because if I get overwhelmed, I won't do anything (there's those extremes again).</b></div>
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<b>Bleach wipes (or make your own vinegar wipes) are a great way to speed up the wipe down process in the morning. If you make your own, you can just wipe everything down before you start laundry and the just toss them right into the washer as soon as you are done. Same goes for homemade swiffer covers. Swiffers and the like are great and fast but lets face it, they get expensive....FAST.</b></div>
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<b>If you notice, this is a full family affair. Eric doesn't do much during the week because (frankly) he's never home.</b></div>
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<b>Chores are great for kids. It teaches them pride in their work, family responsibility and they are things that they will need to know how to do once they leave home and are on their own. It also teaches them to appreciate what you and your spouse do. If you are unsure of what chores are appropriate for your kids, there are tons of websites that give suggestions per age group. Also, if you have kids who are reluctant to clean you can always try turning it into a game, trying a reward system or simply sitting them down and telling them it is something they need to do because they are part of the family. </b></div>
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<b>Whatever routine you find that works for you, make sure you give yourself some breathing room. The world is not going to end if you don't get the bathrooms wiped down and the breakfast dishes done until after lunch or you didn't vacuum or do laundry yesterday. Also, make sure you get some time for yourself.</b></div>
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<b>Have a wonderful day!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b>Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-85509174148629329762013-10-08T08:44:00.002-04:002013-10-08T08:46:31.299-04:00The Delusion of Perfection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>I've spent the better part of a week trying to write this in my head to no avail. I'm hoping that it will flow as I type so here goes.....<br /><br />I've joked and made smart ass remarks about this illusion people have about homeschool moms.</b></div>
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<b>Images of June Cleaver in heels and pearls with her infinite patience and spotless house. Ideas of perfectly well-behaved, genius children with spotless rooms, no laundry backed up, dinner on the table promptly at 5 and greeting your spouse with a freshly made up face, a brilliant smile and an already opened beer the moment (s)he walks through the door.</b></div>
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<b>It is probably not that bad but you get the general gist.</b></div>
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<b>I'm concerned about this seemingly widespread belief about homeschoolers. I think it turns people away from homeschooling because they feel that they cannot keep up, sets ridiculous expectations for homeschooled children and causes some homeschooling moms to suffer in silence for fear of judgment. You may think I am over exaggerating or being silly but the fact is I've seen examples of all of these on several occasions.</b></div>
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<b>I think as homeschoolers we need to talk more about our struggles, our insecurities and our fears. Sharing all the positives of homeschooling is wonderful because it shows that it works which is important but sharing the good, the bad and the ugly shows the truth and reality behind homeschooling. </b></div>
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<b>What is that truth? For starters, it is that homeschooling is different for every family, that many homeschool children struggle with learning disabilities, mental disabilities, time management, particular subjects and are...dare I say.....AVERAGE! Homeschooling parents are met with the many of the same challenges that teacher's are met with in a classroom....the difference, we do not have 20+ kids to deal with. Another truth is that the majority of homeschool mom's are not June Cleaver 2.0. We struggle with getting it all done, getting enough time to ourselves and with our spouse, we worry about money and some days we just want to pull out hair out!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHahyguEszBG_0YTw9Kc9Kt8N0lIz7baCYlhHFqC9bKrkAFKxLemxmdL2zZqePUqVn8o39OnNLy2G2uzeAWeXBnBViwdi_ErwozvcUaRi4_7RzLvbJY7MIwmuOSf4XIl4zyY-aIwZQWJE/s1600/28a95b4b1dc1d18b1743284911b4ab74.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHahyguEszBG_0YTw9Kc9Kt8N0lIz7baCYlhHFqC9bKrkAFKxLemxmdL2zZqePUqVn8o39OnNLy2G2uzeAWeXBnBViwdi_ErwozvcUaRi4_7RzLvbJY7MIwmuOSf4XIl4zyY-aIwZQWJE/s320/28a95b4b1dc1d18b1743284911b4ab74.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I try to be honest about my struggles because I know how easy it is to get overwhelmed with this idea of perfection as you scan through blogs, Pinterest and Facebook. </b></div>
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<b>I want people to be able to come here and think, "Her life is crazy and she's still able to do it. Maybe I should give it a go." I want those who do not homeschool to stop grilling our children because they think they should know things far beyond their grade level and most importantly, I want that homeschool mom with three kids five and under who feels like she's drowning to be able to say, "I need help. I need advice. I need to vent." and receive the support she needs from her community.</b></div>
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<b>Here's my reality for today, October 8, 2013. I'm tired and my head hurts. I thought today was the 7th until I looked at the computer. The kids are up and I wished they had slept in longer. Noah is already not listening. We are missing gymnastics because the van needs new tires but Eric can never seem to get home before the place closes. I have ton of laundry to do, my bedroom is a mess and all I really want to do is go back to bed. The boys' room is a disaster zone! We have people coming over today so I will have the kids help me make sure the common areas of the house are presentable and shut the laundry room door before they get here. I can't even comment on the reality of my homeschooling day because it is different every single day. </b></div>
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<b>Do me a favor today....share your struggles as a homeschool mom or just as mom in general. Do it here, on Facebook, in a homeschool group, on the phone...where ever. You just may be the reason someone opens up and ask for help.</b></div>
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<b>Have a wonderful day!</b></div>
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<br />Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-3770365378061131052013-10-03T07:48:00.003-04:002013-10-03T08:15:56.083-04:00One Month Check-in...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">This summer it was decided that we would have a meeting every month to talk about homeschooling. We wanted to do this to make sure everyone is on the same page and to ensure issues were addressed immediately rather than half way through the year.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Sunday was our first meeting.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">There have been some minor hiccups on the way...illness, purchasing the wrong math book for Noah, trying to get use to the new schedule, etc. but so far, so good.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">This is the first year in four years that I have not been stressed out about anything homeschool related. I never thought that would happen. lol Of course, it is still early in the year so who knows what lies ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">I am truly amazed at how much we've already done. I was concerned that we were biting off more than we could chew with this new schedule but it really is working well.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">All of the kids are doing well. They each have things they need to work on like handwriting, time management, listening, staying focused, etc but I am very happy with the progress I am seeing.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've added starfall.com for part of Abbie and Noah's required reading time. I tried using it before but they had no real interest. This time, however, it really seems to be helping both of them. I can see Noah's confidence in his reading slowly building.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">We are almost through the "try before you buy" lessons of R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey. I like the program and we will be keeping with it. My favorite thing about the curriculum is that it is clean, clear and concise It isn't overwhelming and it is very easy to add to. Now, don't take that as the curriculum being incomplete, it isn't. It just so happens that I have three children who would happily do science for hours on end so we tend to explore the topics more. For example, we've been working on the skeletal system for about two weeks. After learning the basics from the curriculum, Abbie and Noah have learned the 20 major bones of the body, how many bones babies have versus adults and why, the four bone classifications, basic joint classifications and the anatomy of bones. Bryce has branched off on his own doing more in-depth research and notebooking.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Abbie and Bryce are loving the Math in Focus curriculum. The instructions and examples in the student book are very well written. Bryce is finding it easy to work independently. Just a note to anyone who may try it -- Don't be put off by the repetition. If your child has mastered the skill, skip any remaining worksheets. There's no need to bore them to tears. Noah is still working through the Math Wrap-up books per his request.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Our grammar curriculum is great. Another one that covers that topics clearly and is very easy to add onto if you need to.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">The kids love the typing program, no surprise. It's loud, colorful and funny.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">I really have no complaints about any of the curriculum choices we've made thus far which is a huge plus since all of them are new.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">My only real complaint is not having a camera. LOL For some reason, Eric's boss frowns if I insist he keep his phone home all day so I can take pictures of what we're doing. ;-)</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">How are things going for your family? Share in the comments below! </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Wondering what our curriculum/schedule looks like? You can find it <a href="http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2013/08/2013-2014-curriculum-and-schedule.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">Hope everyone has a great day!</span></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-35723760104388989792013-09-26T10:16:00.001-04:002013-09-26T10:16:16.286-04:00When Sickness Strikes....<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cold and flu season is officially here! </span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">This means it's time to lock the family in the house, cancel all outside activities, living in a fog of disinfectant spray, make anyone coming into the house go through a thorough sterilization process before entering the home and when you HAVE to go out....wrapping yourself and your children in bubbles to keep all the germs away. After all, you don't have time for sickness!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br />Okay, not really. Though I am sure some have thought about it. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br />Many homeschool parents find themselves worrying about how to keep up in times of illness, especially when it goes on for more than a day or two. I know, I use to be one of these homeschooling parents.</span></h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From 2011 Bryce wasn't feeling well but insisted <br />on doing his school work.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My crew usually gets sick all at once for about a week during the winter. This year has been different. We've been fighting some viral cooties off and on for the last two weeks. The first week Eric and I were sick and this week the kids had it....thankfully for only a few days. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I don't have a set game plan for sick days. Everything is based off of the demeanor of whomever is sick. For example, we took a few days off last week because I am a huge, cranky baby when I am sick (yep, I admit it) and I knew that my patience just wasn't there. It wouldn't have been productive or fair to the kids to try to go on with business as usual. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>If you set your schedule, you can't ever really be behind!</b> Think about this for a minute. Who dictates your schedule/curriculum? You do. There is no authority figure standing above you monitoring then whens and hows of your curriculum......there's just you. If you miss a few days just move those plans to another day. Trust me, you will get it all done. And don't forget, if you really feel like you need more time in the school year you can always work on the weekends or homeschool year around. The flexibility is there, use it to your advantage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Just because someone is sick, doesn't mean learning stops. </b>Wrap the kids (and yourself) in blankets, grab some hot tea and read together. Afterwards, talk about the books. Watch documentaries or other educational shows together. Play board games. All of these things either teach them something new or they help to review something they know. It just so happened when the kids were sick the other day, the kids watched The Magic School Bus. When Eric came home Abbie explained to him (with proper terminology) just what was going on in their bodies that made them sick. The kids also told him about all the animal facts they had learned through the day. His response was, "I thought you took the day off" to which I smiled and replied, "We did."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So, try not to stress about sick days....it's counterproductive and HORRIBLE for your immune system!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">How do you handle sick days in your house? Share in the comments!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here's to a healthy cold and flu season! :-D</span></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-59845459856440946122013-09-20T03:49:00.000-04:002013-09-20T03:49:31.335-04:00Crazy? I was crazy once....<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jokideo.com/think-youre-going-crazy/">http://jokideo.com/think-youre-going-crazy/</a></td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: blue;">"I could never homeschool! I don't have the patience for it."</span></b> </div>
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How many times as a homeschooler have you heard this? Myself, more times than I can count. </div>
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Where on Earth did people get the idea that homeschoolers have infinite patience or that we never get burnt out??? People don't assume you have boundless patience because you are a parent but the moment you say homeschool ideas of saint worthy patience pop into people's minds.</div>
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I have to admit, it makes me laugh! I do not have a lot of patience. My kids will tell people I am driving the crazy train and I think they are secretly enjoy the fact that they help to put me in the driver's seat.</div>
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There are ways to ward off the craziness and parental burnout. Here are mine:</div>
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1. <b>Mommy Time-Out.</b> Calling for one will likely make your kids giggle but trust me, you will thank yourself. When I call a mommy time out it is usually for 10-15 min. I go in my room, shut the door and turn on the music. They have to quietly occupy themselves for that time and they cannot come talk to me unless someone is bleeding or dying. ;-) If you have little ones who you do not want left unsupervised that long, do what my mom did.........designated quiet time. Have them lay in their beds for a designated amount of time. They don't have to sleep but they have to either look at books or play with a quiet toy. I know 10-15 min doesn't sound like a lot but you would be amazed at how much better you feel.</div>
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2. <b>Take time to enjoy the things you love. </b>I love music, cooking, books, gardening, soap making and Herbalism. I don't have as much time as I would like to dedicate to all of them but I try to fit it in whenever I can. A great way to do this is to share what you love with your kids. That won't work? Call a mommy time out and kill two birds with one stone. Are the things you are super passionate about complicated and require lots of time and total concentration? Get up before the kids, go to bed after them, work out a time with your significant other where they take the kids so you get your time or work out a schedule with someone of your friends where take turns babysitting for one another. Being a mom doesn't mean giving up who you are. Sure, you will probably do it on occasion because that is what we do but the important thing is to get the balance back.</div>
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3. <b>Kid-free time with your spouse. </b> One of the biggest pieces of relationship advice is that you need to have a date night. Well, lets be realistic for a moment...most people do not have the ability to go out kid-free on a regular basis. That doesn't mean you can't get kid-free time with your spouse. Have a picnic after the kids go to bed, curl up on the couch and have wine and dessert, cuddle up in front of a movie, have the kids play in their room or outside so that the two of you can get 10-15 min. of adult conversation, get up before the kids and have coffee together, cook together or drag them into the laundry room for a kiss that won't be accompanied with any variation of, "ewwwww", "GROSS" or "Get a room!" As parents we provide the foundation that our family's stability rest on, if the foundation is rocky the house will come down.</div>
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4. <b>Spend time with your friends. </b>This is when getting involved with local homeschooling groups can be of great benefit. I get to see many of my friends on a weekly/biweekly basis because they are also homeschoolers. I also go to a monthly book club meeting (no kids) and we'll get together every 2-3 months for dinner at a local restaurant. The only kids are the ones that are still nursing. It is so nice to be able to sit and enjoy a meal and adult conversation. Wherever, whenever and how ever you get together isn't important....what is important is the maintaining that connection with people who are important to you.</div>
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5. <b>Pamper yourself. </b>People hear the word 'pamper' and start seeing dollar signs, I promise you this doesn't have to be an expensive proposition. Go out and buy you a bag of 100 tea lights (they are dirt cheap) and take long baths once a week by candle. Hell, go wild and add some soft music, a book and a glass of wine. Like iced coffee? Buy a bottle of your favorite flavoring (they aren't expensive and will last a while) and enjoy a glass during your mommy time-outs. Heck, enjoy one every afternoon just because you can. Do you like sugar/salt scrubs? Make them! They take seconds (no kidding, I make them all the time), feel great and you probably have most if not all of the ingredients in your house right now. Love being outside? Get up in the morning and watch the sunrise or grab a glass of tea and watch the sun go down. BTW, lose the shoes and feel the grass under your feet! Need more ideas? Check Pinterest, there are thousands. </div>
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Now, for the disclaimer.....</div>
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The writer in no way guarantees that you will not go crazy or burn out. In fact, she guarantees that at some point you will go completely cookoo for coco puffs. The writer does, however, promise that the above suggestions will help to reduce the number of times your family has to pull out your special white jacket.</div>
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What do you do to keep the craziness and burn out at bay? Share it in the comments!</div>
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Have a wonderful day!</div>
Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-30212451893895270142013-09-19T12:27:00.002-04:002013-09-19T12:28:25.845-04:00Find a Place to Belong Part 3: Mississippi to Ohio<h3 style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Being a secular homeschooler usually comes with two unique challenges.....finding secular curriculum and finding secular/inclusive homeschool groups within the local community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The second is the driving force for this post. To the best of my ability, I have compiled a list of secular/inclusive homeschool groups in the United States. Below you will find my second installment of the list. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">My apologies for taking so long. <span style="line-height: 18px;">I hope you find this and the post to come helpful. If you notice that I forgot a group, please let me know and I will be happy to add it! </span><br /><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">You can find the other installments of this list here:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Part One - <a href="http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2013/08/find-place-to-belong-part-1-alabama-to.html" style="color: #7d171d; text-decoration: none;">http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2013/08/find-place-to-belong-part-1-alabama-to.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Part Two - <a href="http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2013/08/find-place-to-belong-part-2-idaho-to.html">http://homeschoolgoddess.blogspot.com/2013/08/find-place-to-belong-part-2-idaho-to.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Part Four - Coming Soon</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">Feel free to share this with anyone who you think will find it helpful! Have a great day!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Mississippi</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;">PEAK Homeschool Network </span></b><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://peaknetwork.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://peaknetwork.org/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">St Tammany Parrish <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/STP_Homeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/STP_Homeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Golf Coast Secular Homeschoolers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Gulf_Coast_Secular_Homeschool/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Gulf_Coast_Secular_Homeschool/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">OBLIQUEducators <a href="http://www.obliqueducators.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.obliqueducators.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b>Missouri</b><b></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold;"><b>StL Young Homeschoolers<span style="color: purple;"> </span></b></span><span style="color: purple; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/StL_Young_Homeschoolers/info" style="text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/StL_Young_Homeschoolers/info</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Homeschool Families of Greater St.Louis</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HomeSchoolFamiliesofstlouis/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HomeSchoolFamiliesofstlouis/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Rolla Secular Homeschool Group<span style="color: purple;"> </span><span style="color: purple; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Rollasecularhomeschoolers/info" style="color: purple; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Rollasecularhomeschoolers/info</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">North County Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NorthCountyHomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NorthCountyHomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Northland Homeschool Teen Group<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Northland_Homeschool_Teen_Group/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Northland_Homeschool_Teen_Group/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">GIT <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/geeksintraining/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/geeksintraining/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">SHELL <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/shellinmo/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/shellinmo/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">SCSHS <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/SCSHS2/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">https://www.facebook.com/groups/SCSHS2/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">JCSHG </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jcsecularhomeschooling.blogspot.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://jcsecularhomeschooling.blogspot.com/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Creative Homeschool Alliance of SWMO <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/c-h-a-o-s/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/c-h-a-o-s/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Homeschooler Link <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/179835625510938/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">https://www.facebook.com/groups/179835625510938/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">L.E.A.R.N. <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/learnhomeeducationnetwork/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">https://sites.google.com/site/learnhomeeducationnetwork/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Poplar Bluff Homeschool Group <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/poplarbluffhomeschoolgroup/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/poplarbluffhomeschoolgroup/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><div style="color: purple;">
<b>Montana</b></div>
<div style="color: purple;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
HALO<span style="color: purple;"> </span><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/H_A_L_O/info" style="color: purple; font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/H_A_L_O/info</a><br />
<br />
H.O.U.S.E. <span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/house-in-mt/info">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/house-in-mt/info</a></span><br />
<br />
Bozeman Homeschool Network <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BHN/info" style="font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BHN/info</a><br />
<br />
Great Falls Homeschool Friends <span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/greatfallshomeschoolfriends/info">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/greatfallshomeschoolfriends/info</a></span><br />
<br />
Glacier Homeschool Group <a href="http://www.glacierhomeschoolgroup.org/" style="font-weight: normal;">http://www.glacierhomeschoolgroup.org/</a><br />
<br /></div>
</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><b>Nebraska</b></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><b><br /></b></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="font-weight: bold;"><b>NESHE </b></b><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NESHE/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NESHE/info</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
WNHEN <a href="http://www.wnhen.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.wnhen.org/</a></div>
</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">
</span></b></div>
</div>
</h3>
<h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Nevada</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Las Vegas Inclusive Homeschool Group </b></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/homeschoolmeltingpot/info" style="text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/homeschoolmeltingpot/info</a></span></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">Liberal Homeschoolers in Northern NV</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/liberal_homeschoolers_in_NN/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/liberal_homeschoolers_in_NN/info</span></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Kids LIFE <a href="http://kidslifenv.org/" style="font-weight: normal;">http://kidslifenv.org/</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Las Vegas Freethinking Homeschoolers <a href="http://www.meetup.com/LasVegas-Freethinking-Homeschoolers/" style="font-weight: normal;">http://www.meetup.com/LasVegas-Freethinking-Homeschoolers/</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Las Vegas LifeLearners <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Las-Vegas-LifeLearners/" style="font-weight: normal;">http://www.meetup.com/Las-Vegas-LifeLearners/</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Liberal Homeschoolers in Northern Nevada</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/liberal_homeschoolers_in_NN/info" style="font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/liberal_homeschoolers_in_NN/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: purple; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">New Hampshire</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b><br /></b>
</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b>EARTH Homeschoolers </b><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Earthhomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Earthhomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<br />
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<b>KEENE Homeschool Group </b><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/KeeneHomeschool/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/KeeneHomeschool/info</a></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<br /></div>
North Country Homeschoolers <a href="http://www.northcountryhomeschoolers.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.northcountryhomeschoolers.com/</a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
</div>
</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">New Jersey</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Bergen/Rockland Homeschooler Assoc.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BergenRocklandHomeschoolers/info" style="color: purple; font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BergenRocklandHomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Central NJ Homeschool <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Central_NJ_Young_Homeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Central_NJ_Young_Homeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">NJ Homeschool Hangout <a href="http://www.meetup.com/NJHomeschoolHangout/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.meetup.com/NJHomeschoolHangout/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Creative Homeschool Co-Op <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/creativehomeschoolcooperative/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/creativehomeschoolcooperative/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">West Jersey Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WestJerseyHomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WestJerseyHomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Homeschool Jersey City/Hoboken </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HomeschoolJerseyCityHoboken/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HomeschoolJerseyCityHoboken/info</span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Kids Homeschool Network<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="http://www.kidshomeschoolnetwork.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.kidshomeschoolnetwork.com/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">New Mexico</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Santa Fe Homeschool Assoc<span style="color: purple; font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SantaFeHomeschoolAssociation/info" style="color: purple; font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SantaFeHomeschoolAssociation/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">WEHST El Paso <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WEHST/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WEHST/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">HEN Co-Op <span style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HENCOOP/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HENCOOP/info</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Our World Co-Op <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Our-World-School-Homeschool-Co-op/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.meetup.com/Our-World-School-Homeschool-Co-op/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Albuquerque Unschoolers<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/AlbuquerqueUnschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/AlbuquerqueUnschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Homeschool Las Cruces <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-School-Las-Cruces/202513949764288" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-School-Las-Cruces/202513949764288</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">HART <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/harthomeschool/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/harthomeschool/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: left;">
<div style="display: inline !important;">
<div style="display: inline !important; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><div style="display: inline !important;">
</div>
</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">New York</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Long Island Homeschool </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.longislandhomeschool.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.longislandhomeschool.com/</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Suffolk Co. Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SCNYhomeschool/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SCNYhomeschool/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rensselaer Co Homeschoolers</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/rensselaercountyhomeschoolers/info">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/rensselaercountyhomeschoolers/info</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Orange Co. Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/orangehomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/orangehomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Free Range Homeschool Group <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/freerangehomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/freerangehomeschoolers/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">STNY HEE <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/stnyhee/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/stnyhee/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">TALC <a href="http://www.talcny.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.talcny.org/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Tri-State Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/tchs_newsletter/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/tchs_newsletter/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Dutchess Co. Homeschool Assoc. <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/dchsa/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/dchsa/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Ulster Home Educators <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/UlsterHomeEducators/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/UlsterHomeEducators/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">RAIHN <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/raihn06/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/raihn06/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Northern Light Learning Center <a href="http://nllchs.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://nllchs.org/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">NYC HEA <a href="https://nychea.org/" style="font-weight: normal;">https://nychea.org/</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LIGHT <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/LIGHTmail/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/LIGHTmail/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">D.R.E.A.M. Homeschool Community <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/dream4kids/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/dream4kids/info</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">CNY Homeschoolers United <a href="http://kdbo4.wix.com/cnyhomeschoolunited" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://kdbo4.wix.com/cnyhomeschoolunited</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">North Carolina</span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Secular Homeschoolers of NC </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/secular_homeschoolers_NC/info" style="text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/secular_homeschoolers_NC/info</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hendersonville Homeschoolers </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HendersonvilleHomeschoolers/info" style="text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HendersonvilleHomeschoolers/info</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">HOME - Asheville <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/home-asheville/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/home-asheville/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Onslow Secular Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/OnslowSecularHomeSchoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/OnslowSecularHomeSchoolers/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Inclusive Homeschoolers of Wilson </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ihow.nc.net/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.ihow.nc.net/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Matthews Area Secular Co-Op </span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.maschomeschoolers.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.maschomeschoolers.org/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Tar River Home Educators <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/TarRiverHS/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/TarRiverHS/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">PATH <a href="http://www.pathhomeschool.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.pathhomeschool.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">HEArts <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HEArts_HomeEducationArts/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/HEArts_HomeEducationArts/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Chapel Hill Homeschoolers <a href="http://www.chapelhillhomeschoolers.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.chapelhillhomeschoolers.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Homeschool Explorers <a href="http://www.homeschoolexplorers.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.homeschoolexplorers.org/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">SHARE in NC <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SHAREinNC/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SHAREinNC/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Cary Homeschoolers <a href="http://www.caryhomeschoolers.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.caryhomeschoolers.org/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Wake Homeschool Connections <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WakeHSConnections/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/WakeHSConnections/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Learning 4 Life <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/learning4lifehomeeducators/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/learning4lifehomeeducators/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Heart 4 Homeschooling <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Heart4Homeschooling/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Heart4Homeschooling/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">ENRICH NC <a href="http://www.enrichnc.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.enrichnc.org/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Burke Co Home Educators <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BC_HE/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/BC_HE/info</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Blue Ridge Homeschool Alliance <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/blueridgehomeschoolalliance/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/blueridgehomeschoolalliance/info</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">North Dakota</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b style="font-weight: bold;">FM Secular Homeschoolers</b><b style="color: purple; font-weight: bold;"> </b><span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/FMSecularHomeschoolers/info" style="text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/FMSecularHomeschoolers/info</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b>Ohio</b><b></b></span></div>
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Inclusive Homeschoolers of Fairfield Co<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/352600891515052/?fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/groups/352600891515052/?fref=ts</a></span></div>
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CATCH <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/C-A-T-C-H/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/C-A-T-C-H/info</a></div>
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Toledo HELP <a href="http://www.toledohelp.org/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.toledohelp.org/</a></div>
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SOHO <a href="http://www.soho-letsgetsocial.yolasite.com/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.soho-letsgetsocial.yolasite.com/</a></div>
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OHEN <a href="http://www.ohiohomeeducators.net/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://www.ohiohomeeducators.net/</a></div>
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HECLC <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/heclc/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/heclc/info</a></div>
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NEST <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/nesthomeschool/" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">https://sites.google.com/site/nesthomeschool/</a></div>
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KIHSS - Ohio <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/K-I-H-S-S/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/K-I-H-S-S/info</a></div>
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Youngstown Ohio Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/youngstownhomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/youngstownhomeschoolers/info</a></div>
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INCHES Group <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/INCHESgroup/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/INCHESgroup/info</a></div>
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NEOHSC <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NEOHSC/info" style="font-weight: normal;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/NEOHSC/info</a></div>
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Cincinnati Secular Homeschool Connection</div>
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<a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/CincinnatiSecularHomeschoolConnection/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/CincinnatiSecularHomeschoolConnection/info</a></div>
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Dayton Area Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/DaytonAreaHomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/DaytonAreaHomeschoolers/info</a></div>
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SWCAH <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SWCAH/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/SWCAH/info</a></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">Oklahoma</span></div>
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Cornerstone Tulsa <a href="http://cornerstonetulsa.tripod.com/" style="font-weight: normal;">http://cornerstonetulsa.tripod.com/</a></div>
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WISE <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/wisehomeschool/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/wisehomeschool/info</a></div>
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Tulsa Area Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/TulsaAreaHomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/TulsaAreaHomeschoolers/info</a></div>
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Homeschooling in OKC Metro <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/homeschoolinginokcmetro/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/homeschoolinginokcmetro/info</a></div>
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Edmond Secular Homeschoolers <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/edmondsecularhomeschoolers/info" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/edmondsecularhomeschoolers/info</a></div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-14393849357103185282013-09-19T09:01:00.000-04:002013-09-19T10:31:18.106-04:00Helping My Reluctant Reader<div style="text-align: center;">
First and foremost, my apologies for not posting as often as I'd like. Between trying to get into a new routine and being sick the last few days, I haven't felt like doing much of anything.</div>
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I have been thinking about this post a lot though. I'd like for you to meet Noah.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_mzc-WxSV03nm6qOxGiByVvtE8oQX40xrLbJWo4JMbS5lwp2wyDjmXe0PeB6W_32VcpyxP1f4ACsumaQM5CDw4mgEG6STHTZ6TWWnt6eEDbTy7HIDC3iUfjDy7u-IvPLuK35DpcroSa9/s1600/15978_416346325147384_377620993_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_mzc-WxSV03nm6qOxGiByVvtE8oQX40xrLbJWo4JMbS5lwp2wyDjmXe0PeB6W_32VcpyxP1f4ACsumaQM5CDw4mgEG6STHTZ6TWWnt6eEDbTy7HIDC3iUfjDy7u-IvPLuK35DpcroSa9/s320/15978_416346325147384_377620993_n+(1).jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by - Anna Schmidt Photography<br /></td></tr>
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This is the Bug. He'll be 8 in January. He puts up a tough front and struggles with controlling his temper but he's a sensitive soul. He is very self defeating and truly has no idea about how awesome he really is. He's impulsive and wacky. He goes hell bent for leather from the time his feet hit the floor in the morning until he climbs into bed at night. He loves building and has an amazing imagination.</div>
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Noah was brought into my life to teach me patience, remind me to think outside of the box and to enjoy life. Being his mom is complete exhausting but more fun that you can imagine.</div>
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Noah started Kindergarten in 2011. The goal for Kindergarten was to teach him to read because all kids read by the end of Kindergarten. That is at least what I thought when the school year started. We fought constantly over reading. I cried a lot and so did he. I felt I was failing him. We tried Hooked on Phonics (which worked fabulously for Bryce), Starfall.com which works for thousands of kids (just ask a group of homeschool moms about Starfall and the rave reviews will come rolling in), we tried The Ordinary Parents Guide to Teaching reading (I am pretty sure Noah wanted to set this book on fire), Leap Frog DVDs (which he loved but didn't retain) and we even tried it winging it (yeah, that didn't work either). I just knew I was the biggest failure on the planet. Add on top of this, we were having the same issue with writing. He LOATHED handwriting.</div>
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I was at a complete loss as what to do with a kid who refused to learn the basics. Especially after homeschooling a kid who would (usually) willingly sit for hours and happily do schoolwork.</div>
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Kindergarten comes to an end and I have a 6 year old who could not only read but was close to losing a child's nature love of learning. I was careful who I talked to about our issue because I didn't want the judgement. I could hear all the negative comments about homeschooling in my head and I had enough to deal with. Those I did speak to assured me that he would learn when he was ready and that I needed to relax and just keep reading to him. Relaxing seemed like the worst idea ever because I had images of my son being illiterate at 12.<br />
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A homeschooling friend who is also a former teacher told me about with Waldorf teaching they believe in a direct connection between physical milestones and educational ones. What she was telling me made sense. She again assured me that he would get there in his own time, relax and back off a bit and keep reading to him. I decided to give it a go because I didn't know what else to do at that point.</div>
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When Noah started First Grade, Abbie started Kindergarten. The one thing you should know about Abbie and Noah is they are two peas in a pod. We call them our Irish twins even though they were technically born too far apart.<br />
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I decided I would attempt (again) to teach Noah to read while teaching Abbie. This time I decided to use Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons along with Bob Books. Abbie was definitely far more interested in learning to read than Noah but I was hoping that their natural competitiveness would push him.</div>
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The best part of TYCTR was that the lessons only took 15 min. As long as I caught him at the right time of day I could get him to sit still that long. Progress was slow but we were getting somewhere and then it happened......Abbie got ahead of him and he started shutting down. He wouldn't do the lessons anymore so I took the advice of my fellow homeschoolers and put the book away. We only made it half way through the book. I tried to get him to read occasionally but I spent more times than not, reading to him/for him. When he did read we made (and still make) a HUGE deal about it. </div>
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When his portfolio review came up, I knew that Noah had made progress. After all, he was reading simple books but I also knew he was behind for his age (yep...there I go again, thinking that age is the defining marker of all things). I explained to our reviewer our continued reading issues. She again assured me that he would get there, to be patient, relax and keep reading to him. She also tossed another piece of info my way.....and it was something I never considered. Here I have this kid who is very active, always thinking, always moving. He struggles with three things.....reading, writing and getting distracted. Reading and writing are both very passive activities and he likely struggles with them because he's a kinesthetic learner. Have you ever tried to read or write while jumping around? Me either but I imagine that my handwriting would be horrible and I would get sick trying to focus on what I was reading. <br />
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LIGHT BULB! I know, some of you are probably laughing at my foolishness but I really never imagined one having anything to do with the other.<br />
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I've spent much of the summer educating myself on how to teach a kinestetic learner. I also realized this summer that while Noah may be turning 8 in January, he is emotionally younger than 8 and that could be a factor in all of this. To make sure I had all my ducks in a row, I even tested all of the kids to see where they were reading level wise. Abbie scored at about first grade, month 7 and Noah scored at first grade, month 5. I did not tell them their scores because I know how self defeating Noah is. </div>
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I had my plan and a schedule that I was confident. I knew all the ways/suggestions on how to teach a kinesthetic learner. I also learned ways to keep him engaged and active while also keeping him in his seat. I was ready to go....and then school started.<br />
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We started school three weeks ago. The first day I pulled out TYCTR. The plan was to review with Noah (and Abbie) to see where they needed to start up. As soon as Noah laid eyes on the book, he was done. Yep, we are done with it and it will be donated to the library. I also asked him to read to him and he went to the Bob Books. They had become his security blanket because he had them memorized. They are going to the library too.<br />
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Plan B - Scratch Reading Plan A. Reading isn't done with 'How-to' books anymore. It is him and I, on the couch reading any book he chooses (usually a level 1 or level 2 reader). Some days he gets through the whole book with some help from me, other days he only gets through a few pages and on those days I finish reading it for him. When he struggles with sounding out a word I will write as it is pronounced on the board.</div>
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Spelling and grammar (which Abbie and Noah do together) has also helped with Noah's reading. The kids are learning spelling by word families. This has been an easy way to build Noah's confidence because he has the ending sound down, he just has to change out the first few letters. We play a lot of hangman for spelling and because it's a game, he often forgets that he's reading.</div>
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During grammar, I have Noah and Abbie take turns reading the sentences on their worksheets. I've noticed the last few days that he's working ahead of where we are which means he's reading to himself.</div>
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Another thing we do is I read a chapter to them every night. The book we are reading right now is The Witches' Kitchen. They are enjoying the story and will ask about the words they aren't familiar with.</div>
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The last thing I am doing is FINALLY, truly relaxing. Noah has his own timeline and I am okay with that. Being wrapped up in the numbers game does nothing but hurt him and our relationship.<br />
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We have our good and bad days but I have to say, I have seen more progress in Noah's reading in the last three weeks than I did in Kindergarten and First Grade combined. I think all of the pieces have come together for him and he's ready. </div>
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For those of you who are wondering, what happened with his handwriting? Well, I tried teaching it again in First Grade but gave up because we were both miserable. I decided instead to encourage him to take him time. He has great handwriting for a kid who doesn't like to sit down and write. Dare I say, it is neater than his older brother's!?!?!</div>
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I hope those of you out there with reluctant readers find this encouraging and hopeful. I wasn't going to blog about it because of how judgmental people can be but I've seen so many moms and dads just like me, wanting to do what is best for their child and feeling, completely and totally lost. You are not alone, there are lots of us out there. Your child will get there. Be patient.</div>
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Have a wonderful day!</div>
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Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1789559412380066469.post-32484007754682359792013-09-11T18:39:00.001-04:002013-09-11T18:44:21.398-04:00How we tackled the 9/11/01 conversation<b>Today was hard for a lot of people.....lots of thoughts, lots of memories, lots of feelings. As parents we deal with an additional set of thoughts and feelings......"How and when is best to tell my child what happened on September 11, 2001?"</b><br />
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<b>Let me preface this with, there is no correct answer. Every family has to judge their individual situation and decide when is the best time.</b><br />
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<b>I decided today was that time. It was a snap judgement. I didn't even have time to consult my husband on the matter. Thankfully, he's use to this and he trust me.</b><br />
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<b>At breakfast Noah was talking about a documentary he and Bryce watched. The long and short of the conversation was that Noah came away with there being a lot of really bad people in Baghdad and that he wanted to become a mercenary to save people.</b><br />
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<b>My first thought was, "What documentary was this?" *No, I am not some slacker parent who doesn't monitor their child's TV choices. I was at book club that night* </b><br />
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<b>So I started asking questions about if he knew where Baghdad was, if he knew what a mercenary was, etc. I quickly explained where Baghdad was and that while mercenaries may get rid of "bad people" they are hired killers, they are not good people themselves.</b><br />
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<b>I knew at that very instant that it was time. I brought all the kids in the living room, loaded up YouTube and through tears gave them an age appropriate run down of what happened on 9/11. I then let them watch clips of the buildings being hit and falling. We talked about the lives that were lost that day and the heroes that came out of the ashes.</b><br />
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<b>They were solemn. I am not entire sure if it was my crying or the videos or both but something clicked.</b><br />
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<b>We continued talking about how lives were changed that day and how the country changed. I explained why terrorist do what they do and why, in their own way they think they are doing something good.</b><br />
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<b>I didn't want our day to be shrouded in sadness and depression so we started talking about positive ways to help our global community.......educating people, feeding people, helping them have homes, caring for people, helping to keep people safe, etc. etc. I explained while there will always be bad in the world, we can out weigh it with the good and that every bit of good matters, no matter how insignificant it may seem at the time. How free things like kindness, respect and appreciation can make or break someone's day. How it is important to try not to judge people as we are all fighting personal battles. I also explained that no one is perfect and they will make mistakes but the point is to try their best.</b><br />
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<b>We ended the conversation with me reading the following prayer to them:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><b>Let the rain come and wash away</b></span></div>
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><b>the ancient grudges, the bitter hatreds</b></span></span></div>
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">held and nurtured over generations.</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Let the rain wash away the memory</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">of the hurt, the neglect.</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Then let the sun come out and</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">fill the sky with rainbows.</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Let the warmth of the sun heal us</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">wherever we are broken.</span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Let it burn away the fog so that</span></div>
</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline;"><div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">we can see each other clearly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">So that we can see beyond labels,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">beyond accents, gender or skin color.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Let the warmth and brightness</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">of the sun melt our selfishness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">So that we can share the joys and</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">feel the sorrows of our neighbors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">And let the light of the sun</span></div>
<div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">be so strong that we will see all</span></div>
<div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">people as our neighbors.</span></div>
<div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Let the earth, nourished by rain,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">bring forth flowers</span></div>
<div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">to surround us with beauty.</span></div>
<div style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">And let the mountains teach our hearts</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">to reach upward to heavens.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17.984375px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #37404e; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 17.99715805053711px;">Rabbi Harold Kushner</span></div>
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<b>It was a hard conversation but I felt good about it and I think the kids took away from it what I had intended.</b><br />
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<b>We went on about our day like normal but there was definitely a calm in the air that doesn't typically exist until bedtime.</b><br />
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<b>How did you tackle this conversation? How old are your children? I'd love to hear your story. Leave it in the comments below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.</b><br />
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<b>Have a good evening.</b><br />
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<br />Chasahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01902148140358703466noreply@blogger.com0