Enjoy September

Topics for September 5, 2006 Newsletter

Top Three Tips

Book Corner

Enrichment

New!! at http://www.homeschool-living.com

Check out Steps to Overcome Balkiness and Inspirational Humor (If URL is not a link, please just copy- and-paste the URL into the Web browser.)

Moms' Section

Three Top Tips:

1) From Haley's Cleaning Hints comes a speedy, super easy way to clean silver, silverplate and silver and gold jewelry (without stones).

Be sure to wear gloves.

-Fill the kitchen sink with about a quart of hot tap water.
-Dissolve 1 tbsp. water softener in water.
-Place a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom of the sink.
-Put your silver on the foil. It will be clean in about 10 seconds.
-Rotate the piece until all of it is clean.
-If the tarnish is stubborn, vigorously rub the piece after soaking.

Homeschool chemistry question: How does this work?

2) Copy lesson plans for each student.

This allows him to be independent and frees you to do the teaching. He sees the big picture...and he can find his assignments, check them off when completed, note comments and questions, etc.

But most importantly, through this process, the youngster can experience the satisfaction of a finishing a task in a timely and thorough manner.

Talk about motivational!

3) Environment matters. For example, although all exercise is beneficial, research has shown that when it is done outside, positive mood hormones go up even more; stress hormones go down even farther.

Even when just taking a quick break, make the most of it by choosing a spot that is pleasant and uplifting.

Book Corner: We Moms need a short time out each day. Here is a relaxing reading recommendation. That is, it's not a text book, reference book, answer key or homeschool book. It's fun, uplifting, wholesome fiction!

Title: Freckles
Author: Gene Stratton-Porter

• Type: Historical Fiction

• Setting: Michigan, Great Lakes region, late 19th-early 20th centuries

• Main Characters: Freckles, Angel of the Limberlost Forest

  Others: Mr. McLean, Mr. and Mrs. Duncan

• Style: Beautiful descriptions of nature and lots of dialogue make this story very easy to read. It's appropriate for a youngster about thirteen or older and all Moms!

• Theme: With virtues such as faith, courage and loyalty, one can overcome handicaps, trials and set-backs to achieve dreams.

• Why I like Freckles: It is the saga of a young Irishman, maimed and abandoned as a baby, who fearlessly and fiercely fights to find his place in life.

  Freckles and all the principals are so likeable and admirable. The reader immediately is drawn into their feelings, thoughts and hopes.

  There is also action and suspense as the heroes battle realistic, evil villains.

  I first read Freckles in eighth grade (a long time ago). Since then, I've reread it at least three times. I still tear up, laugh, and learn. It still renews my spirit.

• Homeschool Note: Freckles' love and respect for nature is a major part of the story. It stirs curiosity and admiration for God's creation.
  

• Available: libraries, wherever you can find old volumes

Children's Section

Enrichment Activity: Make Ooey, Gooey

Rubbery, blubbery goop that stretches, squishes and bounces...(observe the chemical reaction)

Ingredients: 8 oz. of white glue
acrylic paint
several cups of water
Borax laundry booster
large airtight container