tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23534787822237675752024-03-14T01:02:03.582-07:00The HOME WriterHelping. Organizing. Mentoring. Encouraging.The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-22040256263839074792013-03-04T19:46:00.003-08:002013-03-04T19:49:12.652-08:00Comfort Food: PizzaPizza isn't usually associated with the phrase "comfort food" but I think it should be! It is one of the few foods that just about everyone loves; it is good either hot or cold; and it's fairly portable.<br />
<br />
Over the years, my family has eaten a large amount of pizza--most of it homemade. We've also eaten restaurant and store-bought pizza, but we all agree that homemade is best. I don't say that to brag, and I'm not being biased. My children's friends all rave about my pizza, and my husband is always disappointed when I buy pizza instead of making it. (Sometimes I just need a break from the Friday routine, though!)<br />
<br />
I doubt I'll ever open a pizza parlor, so I'm going to share my recipe here.<br />
<br />
<b>Kelly's Pizza Sauce</b><br />
<br />
1 tsp Olive Oil<br />
1 tsp Basil<br />
2 tsp Oregano<br />
1/4 tsp Salt<br />
several dashes Pepper<br />
8 oz can Tomato Paste<br />
15 oz can Tomato Sauce<br />
<br />
Heat all ingredients over medium heat until it begins to bubble. Reduce heat to lowest setting and allow to cook for 5-10 more minutes. Remove from heat. Use two heaping tablespoons on each pizza (more or less as your taste prefers). Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator.<br />
<br />
You'll notice there is no garlic or onion in my pizza sauce. You are welcome to add it, but it will alter the taste. As much as I love garlic and onion, they do not seem to agree with my husband's stomach. Therefore, I leave them out of just about everything I cook. As I said earlier, people love my pizza and I think the sauce is a big part of that (and the fact that I leave out the garlic and onion).<br />
<br />
Pizza sauce can be used on many things, such as English muffins or breaded cheese sticks, but it goes best on pizza crusts. With that in mind, the following is my crust recipe.<br />
<br />
<b>Kelly's Pizza Crust </b><br />
<br />
2 tsp Salt<br />
2 tsp Sugar<br />
2 Tbsp Olive Oil<br />
1 1/2 cups room temp Water<br />
4 1/4 cups Flour<br />
2 tsp Yeast<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 425F.<br />
Place all ingredients into bread machine in order recommended by manufacturer and set to "dough" setting. When machine beeps (end signal) allow to set for 10 - 15 more minutes to get a good rise. Turn out onto floured surface and cut into four equal sections. Working with one section at a time, roll out into thin circle. (If you like your crusts thicker, cut into three sections, or even two, and adjust baking time.) Place onto round pizza pan, and place a second round pan on top (to keep flat); place in oven on lower rack and bake for 8-9 minutes. Remove from oven. Top with sauce, cheese, and whatever other toppings you enjoy. Place pizza directly on upper rack (so you can put a fresh crust on the the pan on the lower rack) and bake for another 8-9 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.<br />
<br />
If you give these recipes a try, I hope you like them!The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-51785081891526118922013-02-05T06:00:00.000-08:002013-03-04T19:49:25.602-08:00Peanut Butter Krispie TreatsWhen I was growing up, my mom always made Peanut Butter Krispie Treats. I didn't have the marshmallow kind until I was in my late teens, and, quite frankly, thought they weren't nearly as good as the peanut butter kind. My children were raised on these peanut butter ones, and everyone I serve them to is amazed at how good they are -- so I thought I would share the recipe.<br />
<br />
When I asked, Mom said she got the recipe from a magazine. A Google search of the ingredients turns up <a href="http://www.ricekrispies.com/en_US/recipes/chocolate-scotcheroos.html#/en_US/recipes/chocolate-scotcheroos" target="_blank">Chocolate Scotcheroos</a>. I'm asked for the recipe so often, and it's so simple, I'll post it here.<br />
<br />
Peanut Butter Krispie Treats<br />
<br />
1 cup light corn syrup<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup peanut butter<br />
6 cups Kellogg's® Rice Krispies® cereal<br />
(They're also good when made with <span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">Cocoa Krispies® cereal.)</span></span><br />
<br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">In a large pot, add the corn syrup and sugar. Heat on medium, stirring to combine, until sugar is melted and mixture begins to bubble. Remove from heat; add peanut butter and stir until combined. Add cereal and mix until completely coated. Pour into greased (I like to use real butter for these) 13X9 pan, and press it out evenly. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">This is where I stop -- these are fabulous<i> just like this</i>. However, you can add a topping if you wish:</span></span><br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name"><br /></span></span>
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips</span></span><br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">1 cup butterscotch chips</span></span><br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name"><br /></span></span>
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">Melt together, stirring until smooth and creamy. Spread over Krispie Treats and place in frig to cool/harden. </span></span><br />
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name"><br /></span></span>
<span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/recipeingredient"><span itemprop="name">With the topping, these taste much like a Hershey's Whatchamacallit candy bar. I prefer to leave off the topping and use chocolate cereal... or regular cereal... I'm not picky. If you decide to make some, of these, with or without the topping, let me know. I'll be over. ;-)</span></span>The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-41309997138848030062013-01-29T17:41:00.000-08:002013-01-29T17:41:03.204-08:00Pioneer Woman's Spicy Dr Pepper Shredded PorkA few weeks ago we had illness sweep through our house. Sunday morning found three of us (me, hubby and youngest child) unable to go to church. After the other two children went off to church (it's so nice to have another driver in the house!) we settled into some comfy chairs and watched some TV. I was lucky enough to get control of the remote -- better known as the clicker around here -- so I put on Food Network (thankfully, none of us were nauseous).<br />
<br />
That day there happened to be a bunch of <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/" target="_blank">Pioneer Woman</a> shows on, back to back. I'd never watched PW before, but after a few recipes I decided I liked her. She cooks real food; stuff that kids and cowboys like; down-to-earth meals. One recipe in particular caught my eye: <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/" target="_blank">Spicy Dr. Pepper Shredded Pork</a>.<br />
<br />
A couple weeks later a local store had a sale on the exact cut of meat I needed for this recipe, so I bought it, along with the other ingredients. I must admit, finding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce was a challenge, but now I know where to get them!<br />
<br />
After a few hours in the oven, my house smelled heavenly. When it was finally time to take it out and shred the meat, I was starving! If you like pulled pork, you'll really, really like this. We chose to leave the meat separate from the sauce, so we could add the amount of "spice" we each wanted -- yes, the sauce is very, very spicy.<br />
<br />
This recipe makes a large amount; we ate about 1/3 and split the remainder into two containers for future meals and stuck them in the freezer. I also split the remaining sauce into two containers and froze that as well. This is going to make a wonderful, quick meal sometime in the next week or two!<br />
The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-5614144761713617262013-01-03T08:46:00.000-08:002013-01-03T08:48:18.955-08:00Sausage & Spaghetti SpiralsYears ago, there was a jarred sauce called "Pasta Bakes." All you needed to do was mix it with cooked pasta, place it in a 13x9 pan, top it with cheese and bake it. It tasted great, but later in the evening someone was sure to be uncomfortable. I had to stop buying it. :-(<br />
<br />
So, I created my own recipe! I have not yet gotten to the point of making my own spaghetti sauce (although I do make my own pizza sauce), so I use Prego. We've found that the combination of ingredients in Prego do not cause digestive problems like some of the other sauces. Feel free to use whatever works for your family.<br />
<br />
1 lb Italian sausage<br />
1/4 cup diced green pepper <br />
1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce<br />
1 box (16 oz) spiral pasta<br />
1 1/2 cups Mozzarella cheese <br />
<br />
Cook pasta according to package directions. While this is cooking, brown the Italian sausage and green peppers. Drain the meat and add the spaghetti sauce, then mix with the cooked pasta. Place in a greased 13x9 pan, cover with foil, and bake at 350 (F) for 30 minutes. Uncover, add Mozzarella, and bake for 5 minutes more to melt cheese.<br />
<br />
This is a great dish for pot lucks, too! Enjoy!<br />
<br />The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-30596830751162155142010-03-30T22:34:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:39:29.546-07:00Molly's Money-Saving Digest (January 2010)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=48808&u=401100&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/__EwijOdn1IA/S7IxDixdCQI/AAAAAAAAABw/Da7wAWjyk6A/s200/Molly_Cover.jpg" width="154" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Econobusters.com</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">© 2009 The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">PO Box 8426, Gray, TN 37615</span><br />
<br />
I love to be organized. My files, my sewing and yarn supplies, my books--my home and my life! Being organized makes my life easier, and helps me accomplish my tasks quicker--which leaves more time for leisure activities.<br />
<br />
Imagine my joy when I read the <a href="http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=166&products_id=13847">January 2010 edition of Molly's Money-Saving Digest</a>! Produced by Econobusters and sold through <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=48808&u=401100&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=">The Old Schoolhouse magazine</a>, this is a series of e-books that are published monthly. The January 2010 edition was a special treat as it included instructions on making pies by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&tag=thehomewriter&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&search-alias=aps&field-keywords=The%20Old%20Schoolhouse%20magazine" target="_blank"></a>Mrs. Martha Greene of <a href="http://www.marmeedear.com/">Marmee Dear</a>. With so many "shortcuts" available these days (canned filling, pre-made crusts, and pre-made pies) the art of making pies has been set aside. That's really a shame, too; teaching children to make pies is such fun!<br />
<br />
But, this issue wasn't just about pies. Being the January issue, it covered the basics of getting organized in a new year: budgeting and checkbook balancing, clothing inventory, tips for decorating frugally, and of course a January calendar and to-do list. What more could you ask for? How about recipes, complete with a shopping list? That's included! Or maybe you'd like tips on evaluating, prioritizing and organizing? Those are included, too! How about tips from other moms? Yup, Molly's got it! All you need to do is pull up a chair and visit Molly in the pages of this e-book.<br />
<br />
Rounding out the issue is a listing of links found throughout the e-book, all neatly organized in the last few pages. (That doesn't really surprise you, does it?) After you've been blessed by this January issue--and I know you will be--you may be interested in some of the other Molly e-books. Besides monthly e-books, Molly offers books on organizing, recipes, and menu planning. If you stick with Molly, you'll soon have a wonderful library full of life skills to teach your children, as well as inexpensive decorating tips and money-saving ideas.<br />
<br />
Have you visited Molly this month?<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div>The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-18646464685915432372010-03-23T20:08:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:39:49.127-07:00Help Lord, I'm Getting Ready to Start Homeschooling My High Schooler!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/__EwijOdn1IA/S6mA3W5Y1zI/AAAAAAAAABo/laeqdVndnBk/s1600-h/HelpLord_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/__EwijOdn1IA/S6mA3W5Y1zI/AAAAAAAAABo/laeqdVndnBk/s200/HelpLord_Cover.jpg" width="154" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Compiled by Kathy Reynolds</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">© 2009 The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">PO Box 8426, Gray, TN 37615</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Homeschooling has been a wonderful adventure for my family. With one already graduated, and another graduating this year, I'm looking forward to the next eight years and the graduations of the remaining three children. Six years ago I didn't think I'd be saying that. Six years ago, I needed this book!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=48808&u=401100&m=9286&urllink=&afftrack=">The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine</a> has been encouraging homeschooling families for several years now. As more and more families begin going through the graduation process with their students, that encouragement takes on a whole new meaning. Having "been there" and survived, those families are eager to share their stories and offer support to those following in their footsteps. <a href="http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=334_420&products_id=12107"><b>Help Lord, I'm Getting Ready to Start Homeschooling My High Schooler!</b></a> is a compilation of that support and encouragement. </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fourteen families share their experiences with homeschooling—specifically the high school years. At $12.45, this e-book is well worth the price. Regardless of the ages and grades of your children, you will be encouraged by this book. You may even find a few kindred spirits, as I did. </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've always said that if we put God first, everything else will fall into place. Imagine my surprise when I read those exact words from Phyllis Sather (p. 31)! Or, when I found Donna Rees' heartfelt sentiment, "I wanted others to be proud of my children, too" (p. 81). What a boost to my momma's heart and homeschooling mindset! I was quick to write down Donna's goals for homeschooling (p.82) because they sum up my own ideals:</div><ul style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><li>Commitment to God and His ways</li>
<li>Development of character qualities that are pleasing to Him</li>
<li>Knowledge with which to gain access to greater opportunities for more knowledge.</li>
</ul><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Besides gaining a renewed mindset toward my own abilities to homeschool, I also found some great ideas to implement in our studies. I love a good creative writing course, but I never thought of doing Fan Fiction as a class! I'm also inspired to research the possibilities of apprenticeship programs with businesses in our community.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You can order this e-book directly from <a href="http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=334_420&products_id=12107">TOS</a> but you may want to take your time before checking out. There are so many wonderful resources available through TOS! And that reminds me of another reason why I loved this e-book: the list of resources in the back of the book is fantastic! Not only do they list books and websites which benefit the parent/teacher, they list resources for the student and the whole family. Pick up your copy today!<br />
</div>The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-34898106725153353642010-03-13T15:28:00.000-08:002010-03-13T15:30:44.974-08:00Once Life Matters: A New Beginning, by Marty AngeloEarlier this month I received a message on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheHOMEWriter">Facebook</a> from a gentleman that I didn't know. He wanted to know if I would be interested in reviewing his book. I didn't find this unusual since I'm a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/christianbookandcurriculumreviewers">Fan of a page that connects reviewers with products</a>. I figured he found me there. I clicked his name to view his profile and discovered we had a friend in common. I then started checking out <a href="http://www.martyangelo.com/">his websites</a>, to learn more about his book.<br />
<br />
<iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thehomewriter&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=0961895446&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe><br />
Marty Angelo has spent the majority of his life in the music industry. He's also spent the majority of his life strung-out on one drug or another, or drunk. His book, <i>Once Life Matters: A New Beginning</i>, is about his life before and after his salvation—mostly before. <br />
<br />
I wasn't sure I wanted to review the book. I'm not active in the prison ministry, or any ministry that serves those dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. And I don't have ties to the music industry—anymore. You see, once upon a time, I was very active in a rock 'n roll lifestyle. I know what it's like to be high and drunk (sometimes both at the same time). I recognized the names of some of the bands and recording artists that Marty mentions in his book. That intrigued me enough to agree to the review.<br />
<br />
<i>Once Life Matters</i> is a quick read. I took almost 4 days to read it, but that's only because of two things: family obligations do not allow me to sit and read for hours on end, and strong memories and emotions resurfaced during the reading. When Marty wrote of his despair, I felt it. I've been there. I know the darkness that surrounds drugs and alcohol and the rock 'n roll lifestyle.<br />
<br />
This isn't the kind of book you give to someone out of the blue, in hopes that they'll read it and get saved. This is the kind of book you give to someone once you've established a relationship with them, and discovered that they're looking for something but don't know what. Marty walks you through his life, showing his attitude along the way, and sharing his thought process. Bible verses are sprinkled throughout the book, giving the reader a foreshadowing of where Marty is leading. <br />
<br />
The book left me with a feeling of expectancy. Where would God use Marty next? More importantly, where would God use <b><i>me</i></b> next? I was encouraged to stay focused on Jesus Christ, and to listen for the Lord's leading. <br />
<br />
If you know someone who seems to be searching, who seems to have a hole in his or her life and is constantly trying to fill it, you'll want to get this book for them. It will show them what they're searching for, and Who can fill that hole.The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-10717309470255440422009-09-20T17:51:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:38:34.415-07:00For You They Signed, by Marilyn Boyer<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FEEEF3&IS2=1&bg1=FEEEF3&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=thehomewriter&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&asins=0978585968" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(This is a short review I wrote for a contest on Facebook. I won, and wanted to share this review with you!)</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">For You They Signed</span>, by Marilyn Boyer -- Full of short biographical sketches of each signer of the Declaration of Independence, this book includes fantastic illustrations and thoughtful questions for discussion. Travel through the 13 states as you read about each signer, picking up tidbits of historical facts and plotting timelines along the way. W<span class="text_exposed_hide"></span><span class="text_exposed_show">ork on two signers each week and you'll complete this study within a school year. This book will be a wonderful addition to the library of anyone who is politically active, and it's a <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">must have</span> for those who are not-- your knowledge of our country's history will be enriched, allowing you to better understand what's going on in Washington, D.C., today.</span></div>The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-20817403147260175252009-07-13T08:50:00.000-07:002009-07-13T09:28:19.772-07:00Famous Figures of Ancient Times<iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FEEEF3&IS2=1&bg1=FEEEF3&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=thehomewriter&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&asins=0981856608" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe><br />Written and illustrated by internationally published airbrush artist, Cathy Diez-Luckie, this book is a must-have for anyone teaching children about ancient times. Filled with 19 people and one elephant, this book offers wonderful visuals to keep hands busy while discussing the lives of the ancient people.<br /><br />Printed on sturdy card stock, and perforated for easy removal, children can choose from pre-colored illustrations or black-and-white line drawings (to add their own color scheme to the figure). The back of each piece is labeled for easy assembly, and instructions explaining how to prepare and assemble the figures are also included.<br /><br />The front of the book includes short biographies of each figure to be assembled. A link to the series' <a href="http://www.figuresinmotion.com/">web site</a> offers a club to join (for free) with perks such as a newsletter (with more info about historical people), contests, links, and info on more books in the series. Upcoming titles will cover Medieval, Renaissance, United States, and Biblical figures, as well as dinosaurs and wild animals.<br /><br />Planning a trip to a museum that covers ancient times? This book is a great accessory to reinforce what your children will see and hear! Teaching a Sunday school class? Get a copy of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Famous Figures of the Bible</span> when it's released!<br /><br />Children learn by seeing, hearing and doing. With the help of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Famous Figures of Ancient Times</span>, your children (students) <span style="font-style: italic;">will</span> remember what they learn! I highly recommend <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0981856608?ie=UTF8&tag=thehomewriter&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0981856608">this book</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thehomewriter&l=as2&o=1&a=0981856608" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" border="0" height="1" />!The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-88346144522823245782009-06-16T21:13:00.000-07:002009-06-16T22:04:48.041-07:00Weekly Writer ClubI love to write. I can say so much more with my fingers than I can with my mouth. But I'm often so caught up with my own writing projects that I forget to encourage my children to write. That won't be a problem anymore!<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.weeklywriter.org/">Weekly Writer Club</a> is an online club for students in grades 2-8 which focuses on Language Arts through letter writing. Although the emphasis is on homeschooled students, the club can be used by students in any learning environment.<br /><br />When I first visited the site, I started reading--and clicking through all the links I could find to learn more about the program. The main Club will be active during the school year. But, during the summer there is a Travel Club available which lets families get a feel for the overall program. A quick Google search found other online programs for Language Arts that cost hundreds of dollars a year. Not only were the other programs expensive compared to WWClub, they didn't offer the same amount of personal interaction.<br /><br />What exactly <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> the Club? Here's how the owner words it:<br /><br />"The Weekly Writer Club is an online Language Arts program that rewards students for exploring ideas through letter-writing and sharing what they learn with new friends in the Club. Throughout the year, students in every grade level will improve their writing, thinking, and leadership skills. It is a new Club that is fast becoming one of the most unique and valuable family experiences in homeschooling."<br /><br />Who <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> the owner? Judy Steidl is a certified English teacher who started homeschooling in 1987. Her children are all grown now, yet she continues to support family-focused education. She's been quick to answer any questions I have about the Club, and she's quick to correct any problems members run into.<br /><br />As stated on the site, the Club focuses on letter writing. Children are encouraged to interact on the Club pages to meet new friends and share ideas, but they are also encouraged to pull out paper and pencil and write a letter to a friend, a professional, a family member--even to Judy! And it's not just friendly letters, but persuasive letters, book recommendations, how-to letters, and more. This site truly is "technology and personal communication bundled together."<br /><br />Added perks include a book club and contests. Children are encouraged to read, and share info about the books they read with their new friends at the Club. The contests are open to members and non-members alike, and they encourage interaction as well.<br /><br />The site also features rewards and promotions: everything is <span style="font-style: italic;">by</span> the kids, <span style="font-style: italic;">for</span> the kids, under the guidance of adults. The more children write and interact, the "higher" in the Club they get. And parents never have to worry about the safety of their children while on the site, since there is no outside advertising--clicking around the site keeps them at the site. The only off-site links I could find were few and far between--maybe a handful at the most.<br /><br />My two youngest children recently joined the Summer Travel Club. After giving them a tour and explaining how things work, my 8-year-old turned to me and said, "It's like Facebook for kids!"<br /><br />Hands-on learning, adult and child interaction, safe environment... I highly recommend <a href="http://www.weeklywriter.org/">this site</a>!The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-69455527458476079812009-05-27T22:53:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:20:06.585-07:00The Hurried Woman Syndrome<span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >You’re too tired to exercise, which causes you to feel unattractive, which causes you to neglect your good eating habits, which makes you feel rundown and tired, which causes you to feel unattractive … Do you see a pattern like this forming in your life? If so, you probably suffer from Hurried Woman Syndrome according to Dr. Brent Bost. Reading this book is like chatting with him over coffee - it’s full of humor and common sense. I’m trying to convince my husband to move to Texas so that I can have Dr. Bost as my gynecologist!<br /><br /></span><p style="font-family: arial;"></p><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >During his years of practice, Dr. Bost has become very in-tune with women. He’s found that the three most common complaints are not pregnancy, bleeding and pain, as taught in medical school, but fatigue, weight gain and low sex drive. With that in mind, Dr. Bost has written this book, focusing on those three common complaints.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Fatigue</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >The first section of the book deals with “hurry” or stress and how it causes fatigue. Dr. Bost doesn’t brush over fatigue as being “all in your head” or only because you’re “out of shape.” He lists various medical tests that women should have done (to rule out physical factors of fatigue) and explains them in simple, easy to understand language.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Weight Gain</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Dr. Bost offers an easy to understand method for weight loss and control. He stresses the fact that not everyone is the same, and that no one stays the same over time. What works for one woman doesn’t work for another, and it may not work for the first woman after a few years either.</span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Low Sex Drive</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">There’s not much to be said for this section, other than </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >read it</span><span style="font-size:100%;">! You should have your husband read chapter 18, too! Each section of this book ends with frequently asked questions. Chances are good that you’ll find a question you’ve been thinking of asking your own doctor in this one.</span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Tying It All Together</span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">This last section of the book shows how the other sections affect each other. Dr. Bost emphasizes the importance of having the right attitude and mindset. We should be in control of all areas of our lives, and not let life control us. If you need help around the house, Dr. Bost urges you to speak up. Your family members are not mind readers.</span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-size:100%;" >This book will give you plenty of ideas for de-stressing your life, controlling your weight, and improving your sex life. The book even includes a short quiz to see if you’re suffering from Hurried Woman Syndrome. Get a copy of this book, read it, and share it with a friend. They'll thank you for it!</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thehomewriter&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=007147367X&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="width: 120px; height: 240px; font-family: arial;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></span>The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353478782223767575.post-39536979976521780832009-05-24T16:42:00.001-07:002009-05-24T17:10:17.490-07:00A New VentureI would like to try to do some book reviews, so I've removed the idle chit-chat from this blog and will now post reviews here. I've done some reviewing of family materials in the past (for <a href="http://familycorner.com/">The Family Corner</a>) so I'm not totally new to this. I like to base my reviews around the word "home."<br /><br />H - Handling: was the book/site laid out in a reader-friendly way; did I find all the info I needed, or was I left scratching my head in frustration?<br /><br />O - Orientation: was the book/site pleasing to look at; if there is a price involved, is it reasonable; overall, did I want to read further, or did the first page lose me?<br /><br />M - Modern: does the book/site offer up-to-date info; is it designed for today's reader?<br /><br />E - Educational: did I learn anything from this book/site; can I teach others (like my children) from the info; what was the take-away?<br /><br />Until I get some new books to review, I'll post previous reviews here, and I'll do practice reviews of books on my shelves. I hope what I post will be helpful to each of you!The HOME Writerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15200868998792968293noreply@blogger.com0