Christmas Giveaway Time!

A gift for you...Brighton Park has been growing and I wanted to say "Thank You."
Last year I held my first giveaway. It was Christmas time and the giveaway prize was some gorgeous Gold Canyon Christmas candles, just in time for the holiday. This year, I decided I would make hosting a Christmastime giveaway an annual tradition!

This year's Christmastime giveaway is  $40 worth of Gold Canyon Christmas Candles! With scents like "Christmas Cozy, Christmas Wreath, Sugar Cookie, Peppermint Bark, Sleigh Ride, Mrs. Claus' Kitchen and more, what a wonderful addition to your holidays!

This giveaway is facebook based. To enter, all you have to do is go the the Brighton Park Facebook Page (click here) and "like" it and then (anddon't forget this part) share some holiday cheer by posting on that page a picture of your Christmas tree, wreath, door or mantle! That's it!

If you are not on facebook, then all you have to do to enter is mention this giveaway in a blog post (with a link back to this post) this week and leave me a comment below saying you did so.

The winner will receive a prize package from Gold Canyon candles worth $40. Giveaway ends next Sunday at 3pm and winner will be chosen via random draw at 4pm 12/3 Arizona time. Candles will be shipped to you directly from Gold Canyon the day after winner's mailing address info is received.

**sorry, but due to shipping weight of this prize, winner must live in the USA.

Blessings,

The Homeschool Mother's Journal: Blessings

The homeschool mother's journal is a wonderful link-up hosted each week by Sue at The Homeschool Chick. You an join in or read other great entries by homeschool families  by clicking here. 

In my life this week… The kids' Grandma and Grandpa Taylor were in town this week and shared the Thanksgiving holiday with us. We have had such a lovely visit and the kids have had a great time. Grandma and Grandpa took them all to see Puss in Boots in 3D and miniature golfing...last tonight, we roasted s'mores!

Four of our five little homeschoolers with Grandma Ann and Grandpa Bill

In our homeschool this week… It was a light week. Reading everyday and the other subjects were hit and miss with the holiday.But alot of family time, lessons in the kitchen, and outings with the Grandparents made up for that!

Places we're going and people we are seeing...Grandma and Grandpa treated the kids to a movie one day and miniature golf another. The boys, who have special needs, loved having the special movie day out with them. We have been super busy in the evenings with Nutcracker rehearsals most evenings. Audrey's first performance (she is doing seven) is today!

Audrey, Nutcracker mice costume fitting

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share… enjoy these busy little years. Look for the teachable moments (there are many) and don't stress if the schedule gets messy with holidays, etc

My favorite thing this week was… definitely the wonderful Thanksgiving week with family that we had! (My second favorite thing was I was picked as the Fan of the week at the Fresh Eggs Daily facebook page. They did a lovely profile on me, my family and my flock of heritage breed backyard chickens! You can read it here.)

What’s working/not working for us… homeschooling is working for us. Our family is closer. The siblings are closer. The flexibility is great.

Things I’m working on…trying to say "yes" more and "no" less!

I’m reading…The semester is over in two weeks so the only thing I am reading right now is my French textbook!

I’m cooking… Thanksgiving was a lovely joint effort between my husband and I. He cooks the turkey and the sides. I am responsible for the stuffings (there were 2) the pies (there were 4) and the breads. This week we will be doing leftovers and some busy night crockpot meals.

Me in the kitchen :-) I am so happy Mr. Darcy loves to help cook Thanksgiving.

I’m grateful for…everything

I’m praying for...everyone

A photo, video, link, or quote to share...With Brian's parents here, we were able to get a photo together. Here is me and Mr. Darcy last night around the fire.

Blessings to you and your families this holiday weekend. You are a blessing to me!

Thirty days to being thankful...

I am guest posting today at Becoming a Strong Woman of God. Please join me over at Sonya's blog to read my post about Being Thankful Where you Are and read the other great posts from the 30 days to Being Thankful Challenge.

Blessings,

Katie's Kitchen: Sage Sausage and Duck Egg Frittata

This fritatta recipe is my own take on an old sausage and potato frittata recipe I found when Mr. Darcy and I first got married. The original used sliced choriozo sausage and was very spicy. I changed the proteins, seasonings and amounts of ingredients, and added the parsley and cheese to suit my family's taste. If you don't have duck eggs, you can substitute chicken eggs. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pound potatoes,peeled
10 ounces onions

two packages Jimmy Dean Sage Sausage

2 large duck eggs, beaten (you may substitute 4 chicken eggs if you do not have duck eggs)

6 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley




1 1/2 cup chedder cheese, grated
5 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Thinly slice the potatoes. Halve and thinly slice the onions.

2.  Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a non stick frying pan, at least 8 inches in diameter (I use a 10 inch circular pan) fry the sausage until cooked through and drain on paper towels.

3. Add another 2 tablespoons of oil and fry the potatoes and onions for 2-3 minutes, turning frequently (pan will be very full). Cover tightly and cook over gentle heat for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until softened and slightly golden.

4.  Mix the beaten eggs in a bowl with the parsley, cheese, sausage and plenty of seasoning.  Gently stir in the potatoes and onions until coated, being careful not to break up the potatoes too much.

5.  Wipe out the pan with paper towels and heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil.  Add the mixture and cook over low heat, until the eggs begin to set.  Use a spatula to prevent the fritatta from sticking to the sides.

6.  Preheat the broiler to hot. When the base has set (about 5 minutes), cover the pan handle with foil and place under the broiler until set and golden.

7.  Cut into wedges to serve. Being in the southwest, we serve ours with garnishes of salsa, peppers and sour cream.

This post is linked up to. Comfy in the Kitchen  and The Keepin it Real One new recipe a week challenge and The Vintage Farmhouse and Fresh Eggs Daily.

Blessings,

(Home)schooling the special needs child part two: "Credentials?"

My Sons, Timothy and Sean

You don't have to homeschool for very long before someone asks...


you know...


the Credentials question.

"What makes you think that you can teach?"

"What are your credentials to teach (name your subject)."

There  are numerous variations of this question and most come with a tone. Before I go further, let me first clarify my own position on this. I do get asked this question, but not very often. Quite rarely, actually. I hold a Master's Degree...in a specialty field, where a large percentage of the population I have been providing services to the past 17 years are considered within special education. But, I fondly (or not so fondly) recall once this past summer, I was sitting in a sewing class and the instructor, who knew me from previous classes, mentioned I was a homeschooler unaware the other 5 women sitting in the class with me were all teachers.

"Real" teachers, they informed me.

 There was blood in the water.

However, with a carefully worded response (and in this case one that included my own credentials), I was able to educate and satisfy their questions and promote the validity of a soundly made homeschool decision....as best you can to a room full of teachers.

When you have a child with special needs, this question of credentials comes into particular view.  One of the bigger credentials questions that I see come up to parents of children with special needs, one that most Primary Care Physicians will inquire about, is that of how to go about making sure your child with special needs receives the skilled therapy services he/she needs and I will discuss that in its own post in part 7 of this series: "Therapies".

When you are asked the credentials question, whether this is regarding homeschooling a child with special needs or a typical child, have a "stock" answer ready for  this question. It should not be defensive, nor should it be a short 5,000 word personal history of every small inspiration or grievance that encouraged your decision to homeschool. Remember, the person your asking may just be generally curious (who knows, maybe they are considering homeschooling for themselves) or maybe they are being beligerent (remember you dont have to show up for every argument you are invited to). 

 Look at this question as your OPPORTUNITY to educate and present homeschooling in a positive light.

When I am asked what makes me feel qualified to homeschool, specifically the boys, which as we know is a very different question than WHY do we homeschool,  my personal response starts with what my particular education credentials are. But what if you don't have that? Here are some ideas for you to put together (pick and choose) to  formulate your own "ready" answer:

•  Well, honestly, I think it would be unrealistic to expect a classroom teacher to know as much as I know about my child's diagnosis/needs/abilities, as I have been studying (autism, etc. pick your dx) since he/she was (born/name your age). See how this answer is worded? It does NOT imply you know more than a teacher. It implies you are the expert in your own child's diagnosis. Wording it this way is sympathetic to teachers who are giving 100% in their classrooms, not condescending. You will be hard pressed to find someone who disagrees with this statement.  
• By homeschooling (Child's name), I am able to teach him/her in the way he/she learns best, giving them more one on on attention than they would receive in a public school setting and thereby enabling him/her to be more successful.
• While I do not hold a teacher's certificate, homeschooling was a family decision and please be assured our child's academic success is our main priority. Sometimes after this, you will get a follow up, "but HOW" or "Why do you feel you are qualified", you could follow with something like "I am qualified to know what is best for my child. Homeschooling is best for my child at this time". or
• "My child is special and therefore, his educational needs are special. As a parent, I did not feel his/her needs were  being met to his best abilities in the public school setting".
• I also have a strong support system which includes...
• &, (if your kids are really young) I feel qualified to teach the alphabet. Thank you.

Please keep in mind that there are some people/professionals that even if you whipped out a valid teaching degree from an Ivy League school, they would still not be in agreement with your decision of homeschooling. That's okay. Don't argue with them. A great reply is "I thank you for your input. We simply have a difference in opinion with regard to what choices we each would make". 

I read on facebook this week this response "All schools, public and private, are drone factories. Some just turn out better drones than others". While this one made me spit coffee out laughing when I read it, I don't really share that view and it is not going to win you any friends We should be cognizant to never get an elitist attitude because we homeschool. Every family situation is different. Every family is different. I have friends with children in public schools and friends who work tirelessly for children in public schools. I have worked in public schools. (I will admit to you though, dear readers, that I do have one aquaintance who is always always always  comparing her children to mine and finding mine lacking because we homeschool~~I AM very tempted to use the drone reply next time I see them.

Do I think every single parent is "qualified" to meet the needs of a child with special needs via homeschooling?  NO.

Do I think every parent is qualified to make the decision on whether or not to homeschool their child, particularly if that child has special needs, based on what they feel is in the best interest of their child and their family? YES.

Only you can objectively look at what a public school placement can offer (the bad and the GOOD) vrs. the homeschooling program you are considering doing and deciding which is best for your child/family.  If this leaves you with questions, next week, this series will continue with "The Advantages and Disadvantages of homeschooling your child with special needs" where hopefully more of your questions will be answered.

I welcome your comments and discussions. For even more conversations, join the Brighton Park facebook page.  

Blessings to you,

.

Homeschool Mother's Journal: Teaching Timothy

In my life this week…  I took the girls to the Children's Museum this week. It was a wonderful afternoon full of hands-on fun. As I watched them paint, create, interact, climb and play...I realized this museum had all the things I loved about Waldorf (method)!

In our homeschool this week…  Continuing our full transition to Waldorf. It is a good fit for our family. I started my post series on homeschooling special needs. If you want to read the first post from that series, click here. My son Timothy is helping with our new chickens in the brooder. I am so happy that our backyard flock has been a project that he could fully participate in and enjoy. They are teaching him a love for all small things, to have gentle hands, new vocabulary, and the joys of science.  He is teaching me that if you don't give up and look hard enough you will find something that works for your special homeschoolers!  

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…  Find what works for your family. This may take awhile. Be patient with yourself (and others) while you are figuring things out. You didn't know what foods you liked until you tried them and the same can be said for most homeschool curriculums and methodologies.

I am inspired by… childhood. Where faeries are real and a silk scarf magically turns into 100 things before lunchtime.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… no where extra, unless you count a myriad of Nutcracker rehearsals!...and we are very excited that Mr. Darcy's parents are coming this week and staying through the Thanksgiving holiday. Our kids are so excited for some Grandma Ann/Grandpa Bill time!

My favorite thing this week was… our eldest daughter started violin/Irish fiddle lessons two months ago. She can now play "Twinkle twinkle, little star". I love the look of pride on her face when she is finished, oh wait, that's my face ;-)

What’s working/not working for us…  When I get up early, way before the kids, the day flows. When I don't, it doesn't.

Questions/thoughts I have… I write my blog posts at night and have them scheduled to post in the mornings. I decided this school year to limit my pc time to when the kids are in bed. I think this is important to show them as "unplugged" a life as possible...

Things I’m working on… total minimalism overhaul in the house in my free time. Closets, drawers, counters...no area is safe. Funny how upcoming visits from the inlaws really inspire a person to deep clean and organize ;-)

I’m reading… Persuasion by Jane Austen

I’m grateful for…  my family, my friends, good support systems, homeschooling, education, and all good things!

I’m praying for… God to lead me so that I may lead my children's hearts where they need to go.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…  Starfall is a free phonics program for children preschool-2nd grade. To learn more about different ways you can utilize Starfall in your homeschool click here.

Here is me and Timothy (on a hayride), Oct 2011...

Blessings!

Theme Unit Thursday: Gratitude

I love the idea of teaching children "active gratitude".  One of the nice things about homeschooling is our children are not constantly barraged with seeing what "things" or clothes a classmate has.  Limiting television and the endless commercials that accompany it, or better yet, not having it, also aid in keeping our children from having a serious case of the "I want"s. 

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to do a theme unit on gratitude. Here are some cute ideas to infuse a little "gratitude" into your home and  homeschool this month.

I love this gratitude garland...

easier still...a gratitude jar...

even the smallest preschooler can help make a gratitude paper chain...

I
 also love just how easy it is to get your kids to keep a gratitude journal; even if they are too little for much writing...

Here are some cute versions of the Thanksgiving thankful turkey crafts.
This...

or maybe this?

This is one of my favorite gratitude ideas; tracing a childs handprint, putting their name and age and on the fingers write what they are thankful for. All your kids thankful handprints on one sheet with the year in the middle, makes a great keepsake for Thanksgivings to come.

and remember...

All tutorials and photo credits can be found by clicking onto my Pinterest board: Theme unit luvs: Thanksgiving.

Blessings to you and your homeschool!

Wordless Wednesday: Paris part deux

 I am dedicating my Wordless Wednesday Posts this month to photos from my recent Paris trip. My trip was amazing~life changing, even. I was overwhelmed with Paris' beauty and its people. To see more photos of my trip, please visit Brighton Park's facebook page HERE and click the photo album "Brighton Park Travels".

Day two...

 

The mini lady liberty...

Me, at the Louvre...

The Venus de Milo

The Mona Lisa

Having a little museum fun...

This was my lemonade with lunch on day two...it included lemon,crushed ice,sugar and mint syrup.It was so refreshing!

The best French onion soup I have had...

St. Chapelle Chapel...

Me, outside the Ministry of Justice...

I wanted to say thank you to those who nominated Brighton Park for 11 homeschool blog awards, including Best Photos! Brighton Park was also nominated for Best Mom blog, Best Homemaking/Recipes blog, Best Craft/DIY category, Best Encourager, Best Special Needs Blog, Best Method (for Waldorf method), Best blog design, Best Variety and the Super Homeschooler category. You can click here to vote for your favorites in all the different categories.

Blessings,