Gretna KNIGHTS Homeschool Group

Bad Blogger

2011-04-06T07:37:00.004-05:00

Is it possible for someone to "catch up" in the blogging world? If so, I think I have some catching up to do. I apparently chose to hibernate for both fall AND winter! I have not done a very good job blogging lately and will shortly update it with all the fun things we as a homeschool group have done as well with some of the issue the Baker clan is going through with decisions for next year (don't freak out....they just involve things around sports and what to do for 7th grade curriculum!?!?!?!?!). Have a happy spring day!

Back to the Bible Field Trip

2010-09-15T09:45:00.002-05:00

In September, we are going to go visit Back to the Bible. They are an organization located on the north side of Lincoln. They are a worldwide Christian ministry that is dedicated to leading people to Jesus. They use radio, TV, internet and other media to share the gospel. The tour starts at 9:30am and directions are located on their website at http://www.backtothebible.org/index.php/Visit-Us.html.

September Meeting

2010-09-15T09:42:00.002-05:00

The September meeting was well attended with over 45 kids....half of which were boys! The kids learned some great information about sign language and then had a blast with a water balloon activity. Thank you to everyone for coming.

2010-2011 KNIGHTS Information

2010-08-20T22:14:00.003-05:00

Check your email for the most up to date information for the Gretna KNIGHTS. It has lots of information about group meetings, field trips and mom nights out!

Lake Day

2010-08-13T00:04:00.002-05:00

It is time for the Lake Day in South Bend!

Let us know if you are coming and we will give you directions.

When: August 17th 1-5pm

Where: Niemoth's Home

Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, float toys, life jackets for kids and a snack to share with the group!

KNIGHTS Meetings 2010-2011

2010-08-04T12:06:00.003-05:00

It is almost time for the KNIGHTS meetings to begin. We are planning the activities for the year and wanted to get your feedback. We are going to have a focus on life skills again this year since it went so well last year. We are looking for to cover 16-18 life skills. Here are some initial thoughts in no particular order:

Basic mending
Math games
Sign language
Hand games
Self defense
Idioms
Fire safety
Food pyramid/nutrition
Praying
Braiding
Game shows

What else would you like to include? Let me know what you think and what you are looking for this year!

Getting ready for back to school...

2010-08-01T23:46:00.002-05:00

We are getting ready for back to school at our house. You might wonder what that looks like. Well, it includes all the normal stuff. We buy new school supplies, I get my book list together and decide what I need to purchase, I coordinate the calendar with classes, sports, etc. We also are in great need of cleaning out our old school spots and paper stashes. WOW! Where did all of this paper come from? So, in the next couple of weeks, the Baker girls will be busy cleaning out their old papers from previous school sessions that have been stashed! I try to keep just one box of keepsake school papers for the girls by grade level (but honestly haven't been that good at doing it the past couple of years). Hopefully, most of the papers we find can be tossed and maybe we'll find a jewel or two to keep!

Earlier Filing Date

2010-07-01T21:24:00.003-05:00

Just a reminder that the new filing date for Nebraska is now July 15th.

The Nebraska Department of Education has updated their website address. The new link is now:
http://www.education.ne.gov/FOS/OrgServices/ExemptSchools/Default.htm

Neat link

2010-05-25T12:35:00.001-05:00

We are doing a year end review and needed some answers about government. Found this site and really thought it was neat and would share it! ENJOY!

http://bensguide.gpo.gov/

BONUS Field Trip - F&M Bank

2010-04-21T12:36:00.004-05:00

Join us for a bonus field trip to F&M Bank. RSVP's required! Contact Shana if you plan to go as space is limited!

What? Banking workshop on saving and financial education

When? Friday, April 30^th at 1pm

Where? F&M Bank in Gretna

How much? It is FREE!

Who should participate? The program is intended for later elementary students (ie: 3^rd-5^th grade), but younger siblings (or of course, older siblings) who understand the money concepts will be allowed to attend as long as they are not a distraction for the group.

National Teach Children to Save Day is an annual event that has already helped reach over 3 million children nationwide. The program's goal is to encourage bankers to reach 5 million students before the end of 2011, the 15th anniversary of Teach Children to Save.

Representatives from F&M Bank will give a presentation to your group discussing the difference between needs and wants, how savings accounts and compounding interest work, and we have an activity book for each student. A bank tour will also be given while the students are at the bank. The presentation will take about 30-40 minutes and the material works best for groups of about 25 or less.

Apple Field Trip

2010-04-21T12:32:00.005-05:00

In April, we went to the Apple retail store for a field trip. One class did iweb and one class did iphoto! Everyone had fun and took home a free t-shirt!

Field Trip Planning Ideas

2010-04-20T14:19:00.002-05:00

Even though we are all starting to "wrap up" our school year, planning for the homeschool group is in full swing! I am currently putting together ideas for our field trips for 2010-2011. I have some fun new ideas as well as our traditional main stays! If you have any ideas you would like to share or recommendations for our group, please share them! Have you heard of something fun and wonderful? I would love ideas on career oriented field trips so the kids could learn more about different types of careers next year! I would also love to visit a factory type of business (ie: oriental trading)....but not sure who to contact about that! Put your thinking caps on and share your thoughts with me! Thanks!

Reading Aloud Workshop

2010-04-13T08:43:00.001-05:00

This workshop link was emailed to me in a message about Classical Education. It focuses on reading aloud and the impact of mastering language, thought and speech. ENJOY!

http://www.classicalscholar.com/homeschool_courses/reading_aloud/player.html

2010 Homeschool Track and Field Day

2010-03-27T09:40:00.000-05:00

Registration is NOW open for the 2010 Homeschool Track and Field Day! It is a fabulous day full of fun and being around a great group of families!

Be sure to register online at www.homeschooltrack.org.

If you are returning family, simply log in using your previous username and password. In the event you forgot your password, please email me and I will reset your password.
If you are new, please register by creating a website user name and password. Please enter "omahahen" as the first time HEN password.

We are looking forward to a great event this year!

Spring...

2010-03-25T09:38:00.003-05:00

Oh, how I am ready for spring to come! The kids need to run outside, the yard and garden both need some attention and I need some sunshine! I have heard that this week may be the last week of winter (even though spring was supposed to be here last Saturday). Here is to hoping we are outside next week with our schoolwork!

Kids Eat Free

2010-03-11T18:01:00.001-06:00

Here is some updated Kid's Eat Free info:
EVERYDAY:
Denny’s – kids eat free – 4-10pm
IHop – free kids meal w/ adult entrée – 4-10pm
Roja – Happy Hour in back room – 5-6:30 - $1.50 tacos, $2 margs, ½ price apps

MONDAY:
Upstream (170 & Center) – kids eat free w/ adult entrée
Doc & Eddie’s (168 & Harrison) – kids eat free
Texas Roadhouse – Kids eat free – 1 per adult entrée
Sam & Louie's (downtown Elkhorn) – buy one pizza, get one free
Grandmothers – $.99 kids meals
Grisanti’s – Kids eat free w/ adult entrée – 4-10pm
Julio’s West (123rd & Center) – Kids eat free
Sizzler – For each adult salad bar you get 2 free kids salad bars
Spaghetti Works – Kids eat free – 2 children per 1 adult entrée
Summer Kitchen – Kids eat free
Fudrucker’s – 4-9 pm – kids 12 and under eat for $.99 – drink included
Buffalo Wild Wings – kids 12 and under eat for $.99 – 5-8pm
Indigo Joe’s – kids eat free – 5 to close
Hectors - Hector’s kids eat free w/ paid adult meal
Old Country Buffet - 1 kid eats free per adult meal purchased.
Quaker Steak and Lube-Council Bluffs. kids eat free, 2 kids per adult.

TUESDAY:
Applebee’s – Order 1 adult meal and get 2 kids meals for $.99 each
Doc & Eddie’s (168 & Harrison) – kids eat free
94/95 – $.99 kids meals
Grisanti’s – Kids eat free from 4-10 w/ adult entrée
Paradise Bakery – Kids 12 and under eat free after 4pm (2 per adult entrée)
Fazoli’s – Kids eat for $.99 with 1 adult entrée from 5-8
Sizzler – For each adult salad bar you get 2 kids salad bars for free
Summer Kitchen – Kids eat free
China Buffett – Kids 10 and under eat free w/ adult entree
Fudrucker’s – 4-9 pm - kids 12 and under eat for $.99 – drink included
Godfathers – kids 10 and under eat free buffet – 5-8pm
Lonestar – kids eat free with adult entrée – drink included

WEDNESDAY:
Pepper Jax – Kids eat free – 4-9pm
Doc & Eddie’s (168 & Harrison) – kids eat free
Jason’s Deli – for each adult entrée get 2 kids meal free – kids 12 and under
Sizzler – for each adult salad bar you get 2 kids salad bars for free
Perkins – free kids meal with adult entrée – kids 12 and under – 4-9pm
Old Chicago - starting at 4pm kids make their own pizza. Kids can pick from a variety of toppings, add their toppings, cheese and sauce to the dough!

THURSDAY:
Applebee’s – for each adult entrée get 2 kids meals for $.99 each
Paradise Bakery – Kids 12 and under eat free after 4pm (2 per adult entrée)

SATURDAY:
Perkins – free kids meal with adult entrée – 12 and under – 4 - 9pm

SUNDAY:
Red Zone BBQ – Kids eat free
Valentino’s Buffett (138th & P) – Kids eat free buffet all day
Jason’s Deli – Kids eat free all day
Planet Sub – free kids meal with adult entrée
ZZZAP! Lazer Tag 11108 Q st. Family night Sunday Noon to 9pm 1 adult gets 2 kids in free. Buy 3 games get a fourth game free. 1 adult and 2 kids can all play 4 games of Lazer Tag for $15!

Lies Young Women (and probably OLD) Believe Link

2010-03-10T08:08:00.004-06:00

Here is a link to a great resource for the young women (and old) in your life! It was published in one of The Old School House Magazine Newsletters....what a great resource.
http://www.liesyoungwomenbelieve.com/assets/files/LYWBpp204-5.pdf

March Meeting

2010-03-05T08:19:00.001-06:00

Our March Meeting will be Friday, March 5th- Gretna KNIGHTS Monthly Meeting – Life Skills: Conversation skills, Sportsmanship and Art Appreciation! Come join in the fun!

New Homeschool Orientation Meeting - March

2010-02-24T09:38:00.000-06:00

New Homeschooler Orientation Meeting
Monday, March 8th 6:30-8:30pm
Gretna City Hall
204 N. McKenna Ave.
Gretna, NE 68028

New homeschooler orientation meetings give new homeschoolers or families interested in homeschooling the opportunity to ask questions, obtain help with paperwork, receive lots of helpful information about resources and activities in the Omaha metro area, as well as connect with other parents who are just beginning the home education journey. Plase spread the word to those you know who are new to homeschooling it or considering it. HEN members, as well as non-members, are welcome! Call or email Shana Baker for information at sbaker5@cox.net or 332-4449. Note: please do not call city hall for meeting information.

More winter sports!

2010-02-19T09:50:00.002-06:00

For February, we will be going SKIING for our field trip. We hope you can join us!

If you would like to go with us, please email me and let me know the ages of those attending by Friday, Feb. 19th! I will need to make one payment for the group so I will be asking that you mail or get me the payment by Wed., Feb. 24th.

Here are the details:

What: SKIING
Where: Mount Crescent Ski Area
http://www.skicrescent.com/
When: Friday, Feb. 26th
Time: 9am – ??? (They are open until 9pm)
Cost(s):
$44 - Adult (19 and older) lift ticket and equipment rental (includes skis, boots, poles)
$29 - Youth (6 to 18) ) lift ticket and equipment rental (includes skis, boots, poles)
Kids 5 and under are free with adult purchase
$10 - 90 minute ski lessons for youth and adults
$6 - kids meal ticket (includes 2 chicken strips, fries, drink and cookie)
RSVP Deadline: Fri., Feb. 19th
Payment Deadline: Wed., Feb. 24th
Other notes:
A restaurant is available on site. If you want the kids meal ticket, you must include it with your pre-payment.
As a group we save quite a bit, normal adult rates are $54 (we save $10) and youth rates are $44 (we save $15). Lessons are normally $40 (we save $30)
Tubing will NOT be available on Friday. It is only available on the weekends right now.
If you cannot make it at 9am, I think that will be okay. I will put your tickets aside with your name on them so that when you arrive they will be ready for you.

Welcome to Mt. Crescent
Located in the Loess Hills of western Iowa, Mt. Crescent Ski Area is just 15 miles northeast of Omaha, Nebraska. We provide Midwest skiers with a variety of slopes to both intrigue new skiers and challenge experienced ones. Runs reaching up to 2,000 feet offer a 300-foot vertical drop. Uphill capacity is 3,600 skiers per hour with our double and quad chairlifts. Lighted for night skiing and equipped with the latest snowmaking system, our ski season runs from early December well into March. As long as we receive a few nights with temperatures below 20 degrees for maximum snowmaking, no natural snow is required! Our trails can all be covered with two to three feet of fine, well-packed snow!
A newly remodeled two-story day lodge complete with year round sundeck is home to the Mountain Cafe & Bar. Enjoy hearty, winter fare complemented by your favorite beverage. Ask about lodge rentals for special events, corporate retreats and holiday parties, we have a full line of catering options to suit your needs.
The lodge also offers a full service ski and snowboard rental shop stocking 1,000 sets of modern ski equipment, including skis, boots and bindings by many of the leading manufacturers. And for snowboarders, we have added a full line of the latest boards and boots to outfit a wide variety of riders. If lessons are needed, our PSIA certified and trained ski and snowboard instructors offer group, semi-private and private lessons.

February Meeting

2010-02-01T09:46:00.001-06:00

Our February Meeting will be Friday, Feb. 5th- Gretna KNIGHTS Monthly Meeting – Life Skills: Germs and hand washing, Valentine’s Day Project for KGBI and money facts!

Sledding fun

2010-01-20T11:00:00.000-06:00

For our January field trip, we had a blast sledding at the Chalco hill! What a great time to get out and enjoy the outdoors!

January Meeting - Cancelled

2010-01-05T09:25:00.000-06:00

There was no January KNIGHTS meeting held due to the weather!

Ice Skating Downtown

2010-01-01T09:21:00.000-06:00

For December, we enjoyed ice skating downtown at the Conagra ice skating rink!

December Meeting

2009-12-01T12:18:00.002-06:00

Hello there ladies! The December KNIGHTS meeting is coming up THIS Friday, December 4^th. Anyone is welcome to attend. It will be from 2:30 to 4pm at Gretna Community Church. Please plan to bring a food pantry item as we would like to donate some food this year.

Meeting agenda:

· Start meeting and split into groups – 10 minutes

· Wrapping presents – 30 minutes

· Art/craft project – 40 min

· Closing – 10 minutes

Parents: please plan to stay and help out during the meeting.

We do need a little help this month with the projects.

Please bring:

1. Non perishable food pantry item(s)

2. Stapler(s)…….(make sure you have staples in it, please).

3. Box to wrap (shoe box, small box, etc…..no refrigerator boxes, please)

4. Wrapping paper…nothing fancy….just stuff that you have and probably won’t use.

I am looking for a few moms to coordinate some age appropriate activities for the little ones in the group as they may grow tired or not have the attention span for some of the topics this year. If you are willing to help with the little ones, please let me know as soon as possible.

See you Friday!

Acting workshop

2009-11-15T09:35:00.000-06:00

In November we went to the Rose Theatre and did an acting workshop! All the kids had a great time and the tour was fabulous!

November Meeting

2009-11-02T20:58:00.001-06:00

Gretna KNIGHTS Monthly Meeting

Please join us on Friday, November 6th from 2:30-4:00pm at Gretna Community Church. This year we will have a new theme for our meetings, but don't worry...they will continue to be kid-focused! Please do let us know if you will be coming to the meeting so we can plan accordingly (email to sbaker5@cox.net is fine)

For the 2009-2010 school year, the Gretna KNIGHTS will spend each month learning and having fun with life skills! Each month, we will have introductions, activities centered around life skills, and some open gym time. We chose life skills because, sometimes as homeschoolers, our focus tends to be on academics and issues of character development and practical life skills don't always get our attention. While we intend to take our children along side of us throughout our day, often times we are too busy getting math and history done for the day. We hope this year will help us all feel renewed and refreshed about everyday life skills!

For the November meeting, please come and learn about:

Table Manners
Setting the table
Playing and shuffling cards

See you on Friday!

New Homeschool Orientation Meeting - October

2009-10-24T22:18:00.000-05:00

Please pass the news that the next New Homeschooler Orientation Meeting is coming up soon!

Tuesday, Oct. 27^th 5:45-7:45pm

Millard Public Library

3214 Westwood Ln
Omaha, NE 68144-3556

New homeschooler orientation meetings give new homeschoolers or families interested in homeschooling the opportunity to ask questions, obtain help with paperwork, receive lots of helpful information about resources and activities in the Omaha metro area, as well as connect with other parents who are just beginning the home education journey. Plase spread the word to those you know who are new to homeschooling it or considering it. HEN members, as well as non-members, are welcome! Call or email Shana Baker for information at sbaker5@cox.net or 332-4449. Note: please do not call the library for meeting information.

Vala's Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-05T09:17:00.006-05:00

Homeschool days at Vala's Pumpkin Patch are:

Tuesday, Oct. 6th and Tuesday, Oct. 13th

Check their website for details on cost and programs available. Click on group information and then school field trip at www.valaspumpkinpatch.com

Homeschooler Days

Tuesday, September. 29th

Tuesday, October 6th

Tuesday, October 13th

Parents and their homeschooled children may take advantage of the school group student rates and stay all day and evening. Prices vary according to the type of school tour. Apple Education, Gem Mining, and Pollination lessons need to be scheduled before 2 pm. (Call 402-332-4200 to set this up) Simply identify yourself as a Homeschool family or group. All adults are $6.50 and babies under age 2 are free. On-line booking is available for groups of 20 or more. Call for groups of less than 20 (402-332-4200)

October Meeting

2009-09-23T19:21:00.003-05:00

Gretna KNIGHTS Monthly Meeting

Please join us on Friday, October 2nd from 2:30-4:00pm at Gretna Community Church. This year we will have a new theme for our meetings, but don't worry...they will continue to be kid-focused! Please do let us know if you will be coming to the meeting so we can plan accordingly.

For the October meeting, please come and learn about:

Pledge of Allegiance and Patriotic Songs
Friendships
Introductions and Handshakes

See you in October!

Typing practice

2009-09-14T16:41:00.002-05:00

This is a great website for typing practice! They have games and levels for all levels!
http://www.freetypinggame.net/

Great article...

2009-09-11T23:57:00.000-05:00

I got this article in an email from The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. It has some great things to say and inspire us all! ENJOY!

Planetarium Field Trip - September

2009-09-09T20:40:00.005-05:00

Friday, September 18 - 9:30-Noon

Come visit Morrill Hall and the Mueller Planetarium! You will see a show in the planetarium and then take a self-guided tour of Morrill Hall!

Mueller Planetarium is located 14th & "U" Streets in the University of Nebraska State Museum (Morrill Hall) on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus.

For directions and parking information, please go to their website at:

http://www.spacelaser.com/info.html

For information on what Morrill Hall has visit their floor plan page (there are 3 floors of things to explore) at:

http://www-museum.unl.edu/museum_info/third.html

Field trip for the planetarium/Morrill hall showings are $4 per child and $6 per adult. I will check on the price for preschoolers.

RSVP Required

All shows are now in the "fulldome" format.

5th graders should plan to pick one of the shows. If they choose both, we just need to make arrangements to pay for both shows.

Dawn of the Space Age

<http://www.spacelaser.com/dawn.html>

11:00am-11:45am

Re-live the excitement of the early days of space exploration, from the launch of the first artificial satellite Sputnik, to the lunar landings and privately operated space flights. Ride the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station and experience future Mars exploration.

Running time 45 minutes

Appropriate for grades 5 and up.

Secret of the Cardboard Rocket

http://www.spacelaser.com/cardboard.html>

9:45-10:20am

A fantastic adventure as two youngsters build a cardboard rocket and go on an adventure exploring the solar system.

Running time 35 minutes

Appropriate for grades 1-5

Ice Cream Social for the family

2009-09-09T20:38:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone that came to the ice cream social! We had good food and good fun!

Recognition

2009-08-26T14:20:00.001-05:00

This is a great site I found today. http://www.123certificates.com/

You can make free customized printable certificates! I don't know if you do a lot of recognition for your kids, but I really think there is a lot of value in it and I should do it more! Be genuine and don't ignore things that need improvement, but if your kids are doing something well, let them know!

No matter who you are or what you do, getting recognition for your work can put a little bounce in your stride or a smile on your face. It is nice to know others appreciate what you have done! Forge ahead and tell your kids what they are doing well. If you think it is a little bit corny, try it and see what happens! Be positive and give your kids a friendly note that will fill them up and make them proud of what they do every day!

Back to school....again!

2009-08-22T19:55:00.005-05:00

It is time for the first day of school at Baker Benediction Academy. We plan to start our school year this coming Tuesday. You might ask, "Why Tuesday?". Well, that is the beauty of homeschooling! Jason is in a golf tournament on Monday and he wants to be part of the festivities, so we are starting Tuesday. Simple and convenient....gotta love homeschooling! I am really looking forward to this year. I love new beginnings and each school year provides us with one! We will have a 5th grader, 3rd/4th grader and a 1st grader this year. The Baker girls still get new school supplies and books, new first day outfits and pictures. However, we do recycle the back packs! The first day of school, we always do something fun like play in shaving creme and do treasure hunts and the first week of school is usually only half days to slowly ease the girls back into our schedule....again simple and convenient!

Here is to your first day of school! May it be all that you hope for and may your kids end the day glad to be homeschooled!

P.S. If things don't go as planned (as they sometimes will), don't despair! With homeschooling, you can make each day a new day! You can always bring something fun and new into the day and delight your children in a whole new way.

Mud stomp - 2nd Annual!

2009-08-20T12:28:00.003-05:00

Please join us for the 2nd Annual Mud Stomp event! We are meeting Friday, August 21st at 1pm at the Eastern Nebraska 4-h center near Gretna! Wear OLD clothes or an old swim suit and old tennis shoes or strapped sandals. Flip flops and crocs are NOT recommended! They may get lost in the mud!

Home alone?

2009-08-10T23:11:00.003-05:00

Are your kids getting close to that "magic" age of staying home alone? Have you ever wondered what the restrictions or requirements are in Nebraska for kids who stay home alone?

Well, here is a great link for the "guidelines" in Nebraska.

http://www.hhs.state.ne.us/Children_Family_Services/HomeAlone.htm

Fall Planning

2009-07-25T21:37:00.003-05:00

The KNIGHTS group will be having a fall planning meeting in early August. If you would like to participate in the meeting or contribute in any way, please email me!

Summer Break

2009-06-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

The KNIGHTS group typically takes the summer off with no official group meetings or field trips. Over the summer, we hope to have a pool party, a few play dates and a lake day, so watch your email and the blog for updates!

See you in September!

Summer Movies

2009-06-05T06:33:00.001-05:00

Be sure to check out the summer fun section of the blog....it is down and on the right hand side. Three different theaters are doing summer movie specials for kids on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays!

Can I get an extension, please?!?!?!

2009-05-23T07:48:00.000-05:00

Okay...I'll admit it....this time. We didn't finish school on time. Yes, you heard me. I didn't get it done! The problem wasn't the kids, the problem was the Mom. I admittedly had too much on my plate and realized I am NOT superwoman!

Something I have asked myself in the last week....Do we have to finish our books? No, we don't have to finish our books. Even public school teachers don't always finish their books. I, however, would really like to complete the circle of our learning this year. So for me, it is not about finishing the book, it is about completing a task and accomplishing our goal. Some books we simply close and pick up in the fall (ie: art, science). Some books, however, I would like to complete and will take the time needed without pressure or stress to do that for my girls (ie: math, english and history).

So, rather than go crazy trying to "get it all done" this week, the girls and I all agreed we would simply "get an extension" on school and finish our studies next week. They actually don't seem to be too bummed about it (maybe because many of their Millard school friends are actually still in school as well!)

If you are in the same boat, don't beat yourself up. Sometimes life happens and we simply "school" around it! As homeschoolers, we don't have to live by boundaries of the public school calendar. Make your own calendar. As I read in a Teaching Home article, make a plan to "Finish strong"...on your own terms!

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-05-22T07:39:00.004-05:00

Kindergarten graduation is approaching quickly for my youngest daughter. It doesn't seem possible that we have come to this milestone already. She is so much fun to be around....very loving, witty and keeps us all on track around here! We have homeschooled her from the very beginning, so this milestone seems bigger than with my other two kids. With my oldest girls, we sent them to the local church preschool and I pretty much took it from there. With Shelby, she and I started from scratch! We had challenges along the way, the biggest of all her vision. Once we got that figured out, it all fell into place! It is just so much easier to learn to read when you can see ALL the letters the way they SHOULD be! Congratulations to all the graduates, including Shelby. You are all wonderful in God's site!

Homeschool Track and Field Day

2009-04-30T12:17:00.004-05:00

Please join us for the homeschool track and field day on Saturday, May16th. You can register online at . http://www.homeschooltrack.org/main/Login. If you haven't registered yet, please do that first. You will create a username and password that are unique. Then, you will be asked to enter the first time HEN password. Enter: omahahen. After that, you can log in and fill out the registration forms. Be sure to check out the Tips and Q&A section of the website. Email or call me if you have any questions.

4 weeks and who is counting....

2009-04-26T21:43:00.002-05:00

Well, we have only 4 weeks until the "official" end of school year. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel. We have worked hard this year and learned lots about Ancient History as well as many other things! Poetry memorization was new to us this year and the girls are working hard on their final memorization practice of all their pieces! They continue to amaze and delight me with their talents!

While the end of school year is coming quickly and we will "officially" end the school year May 22nd, I still plan to covertly "do" some school over the summer and between trips to the pool. We plan to do science (while there are lots of birds and bugs to explore), art (since we can get messy in the drive way), and math facts (who doesn't need to practice those anyway) over the summer months.

Spring break

2009-04-11T21:42:00.003-05:00

Yeah! Next week is spring break for the Baker family! We typically take a week long spring break during the week of April 15th since Jason is a CPA. The girls are excited and I am excited too! It is always nice to take a break from the regular schedule. Do we stop "school" completely? Yes, pretty much...unless one or two of the girls didn't finish their work from last week. We simply enjoy a break from our regular schedule so I can get a few projects done and the girls can spend some time with Jason. Enjoy your week!

Pudewa handout link

2009-03-28T18:59:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! For me, the highlight of the conference was definitely attending the Andrew Pudewa sessions. He continually inspires me to inspire and encourage my children in their writing and speaking intiatives! It really is okay to HELP them as much as I can!

If you attended his session or not, you may be interested in checking out his handouts from the talks. Check out this link for the handouts:

http://www.excellenceinwriting.com/index.php?q=page/conference-talk-handouts

NCHEA Homeschool Conference in Lincoln

2009-03-26T09:21:00.003-05:00

The homeschool conference in Lincoln is tomorrow and Saturday. This is a great local conference. YOu will be refreshed and enjoy the company of other homeschool moms and dads! Check out the details at http://nchea.org/.

There is a corresponding kids conference as well! Any child ages 5-12 can attend it! My girls love the CEF conference. I trust the staff with my kids and have always been glad to send them. Details for the kids conference can be found at http://www.geocities.com/nchea4kids/. Space is usually limited so don't delay. I checked the website this morning and they still have space, so check with them to see if you can still get your kids registered or not!

I CAN do this today...

2009-03-16T18:03:00.003-05:00

Have you ever woken up and said, "I CAN do this today" to yourself? I often do, in fact, a lot lately. My husband just kind of looks at me wondering what he should say. I think he thinks it is a trap statement...kind of like, "Do I look fat?" I just usually look at him and ask him to tell me, "Yes, you can!". That is all we need sometimes....a little affirmation that we can get through what we have on our plate today.

Today was one of those days. Mondays are usually my favorite days. They are a new start. They are fresh and bright for me. Today I was a bit overwhelmed with school, lots of laundry (why do I wait for days to put in a load anyway?), housework, helping the kids finish their science projects, Jason in the middle of tax season, planning for the track meet, planning for Kindergarten Graduation and probably 5 other things I have on my mind!

Well, I did do it today. We did complete what we needed and I do feel a little frazzled, but proud of what we did. The kids played outside, we got 2 of the 3 science projects 90% complete, the track stuff is on track as well as the Kindergarten planning. I still have lots of laundry (although less than this morning) and a messy house with magazine clippings all over thanks to my 6 year old and her animal home project. Dinner is in the oven and I can take a deep breath and know that tomorrow, I CAN do it all over again!

Cool History Website

2009-03-14T18:23:00.003-05:00

I am all about finding great resources for me as a teacher and fun things for my kids. I was searching today for a dice coloring page (no, the kids are NOT going to Vegas!). It was for a probability science fair project. Anyway, when I was doing my Internet search, I found this cool site that had all these neat resources for Roman dice games. It is a BBC site with History for Kids! ENJOY!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/forkids/

New Homeschooler Orientation

2009-03-03T10:50:00.002-06:00

I have taken on the great task of doing the New Homeschooler Orientation Meetings for HEN. I am thrilled to do this. I am excited to see all the faces of those families considering or new to homeschooling. I still remember going to my first orientation. I was so confused, excited, full of anticipation, and scared stiff! I had lots of questions and weighed all the pros and cons for the situation! If you have any practical and fun tips for new homeschoolers...be sure to post them in the comment section. Here are some good ones to start with:

Shana's Practical Tips for Homeschooling

Buy an electric pencil sharpener
Join HEN and HSLDA
Remember why you are doing this and write it down...you will refer to it and need it later!
Be flexible with your schedule...think outside the box
Printers and scanners can be a life saver...VERY useful
Let your kids move...or bounce...or roll...or read upside down
Have a plan for when things don't go as planned
Subscribe to HEN etree and HS etree (it's free)...just send "subscribe" to hsetree@gmail.com and send "subscribe" to etree@omahaHEN.org
Don't compare yourself to others. Do what is best for your family
Use the Internet...google and YouTube anything and get lots of ideas
Let your house go...a little bit (you cannot do it all...all the time)
Ask to look at curriculum...homeschoolers like to share
Teach your kids "life skills"
Get your family involved (Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Siblings)
Get involved in your community
Get involved with a support group
Use your public library
Get Dad hooked up with Family Man Ministries at http://www.familymanweb.com/
Pray for grace and gentleness and don't yell so much at your kids!
NEVER give up (from my 10 year old!)

CoCo Key

2009-02-21T12:05:00.003-06:00

A few families are meeting at CoCo Key on Monday, February 23rd! Feel free to join us! Here is the information on CoCo Key again!

Homeschool Days are on Mondays now! Homeschool families will continue to receive passes for just $8 each! Please remember this discount is not available when public schools are on a break.

Operating hours on Monday are 10am-3pm.

Homeschool discount passes may be purchased one of two ways:

Advanced purchase online. Visit http://tickets.cocokeywaterresort.com and enter the store name Omaha HEN. This will take you directly to your discounted tickets. Advance purchase is the only way to guarantee admission to the park at the homeschome school rate.
At the door. If you choose this option, please call ahead in the morning to make sure that the Homeschool discount rate is available.

Valentine's Day Party Thank You

2009-02-20T16:58:00.001-06:00

I wanted to send a thank out to the ladies who stepped up and helped plan the Valentine's Day Party! It was so nice to have you work together and do such a great job! I appreciate your willingness to help out and your ability to throw such a nice party for all of the kids! Thank you Mary Hughes, Heather Job, Shannon Fitzgerald and Shannon Batchelder!!!

Mom's Night Out - Lapbooking

2009-02-20T16:55:00.001-06:00

We have a Mom's Night Out TONIGHT!

Mom's Night Details
What: Lapbooking Lesson from Lisa Whilen. Each Mom will get an Easter kit and start on their Easter lapbook.
Cost: $10
Date: Friday, February 20th
Time: 6-8:30pm
Where: Kristen New's Home

Lisa Whilen, a homeschool mom from Palmyra, will walk us through making a lapbook. She uses "In the hands of a Child" products, in addition to many other resources for her lapbooks. You will leave that night with a lapbook in hand!

Mile markers

2009-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

I am not sure when you started school, but we started in late August. We are starting our 22nd week of school. I can hardly believe it!?!?! More than half way done! I like tracking our progress. I like knowing where I am and where I am going. It feels good to see what we have done and it feels even better knowing the goal is almost accomplished! We tried a new history curriculum this year and LOVE it, especially our projects. Our piano curriculum is also new. All girls are having success with that...even the 6 year old with a cast! She just showed me last week that she, in fact, CAN do her piano lessons with a cast on her arm! I haven't done as much science as I had wanted, but can focus on that in the spring and early summer...when bugs and birds are actually moving! Math is going smoothly and art has actually been getting done (well, most of the time!). So, here is to 18 more weeks of diligence and fun while we make our way through another year of homeschooling together!

Inauguration Day

2009-01-18T18:09:00.003-06:00

Inauguration Day is Tuesday, January 20th. Your children will more than likely be asking lots of questions as they watch the news. These links are great for both the young and old!

Inauguration Day:
http://inaugural.senate.gov/index.cfm

Great fact sheet:
http://www.readinga-z.com/theme/pdfs/inauguration/raz_thin_poster_inaugfact_small.pdf

History and events:
http://americanhistory.about.com/od/uspresidents/ss/inauguration.htm

NO FIELD TRIP TODAY

2009-01-15T04:47:00.001-06:00

Our field trip today will be postponed! It is just too cold! Stay home and stay warm!

Joslyn Art Museum Field Trip

2009-01-14T16:17:00.003-06:00

Joslyn Art Museum Field Trip

January 15th 10am - Noon

We will have 3 tours for this field trip. Everyone will have a one hour tour and then have one hour on their own. The Prek-2nd group will do an art activity for their time. The older groups will do an art pack with an adult (back pack with activities).

Prek-2nd
Animal hide and seek, artmaking and a guided tour of the museum. Look for and encounter wild beasts, small insects, animal helpers, and household pets in Museum paintings and sculptures. Learn basic concepts such as sculpture and painting, materials artists use, textures and colors in animals and in art.

3rd-5th
Parts of art. Discover the visual language of art - color, line, shape, texture and light. Engage in simple gallery activities designed to learn how artists use these basics of visual art language to convey.

6th grade and older
Leadership - making a difference. Visit portraits of people from diverse times and cultures who represent different types of leadership. Discuss positive and negative models of leadership; study leadership roles and qualities.

Cost
Adults $5.50
Prek-2nd $4
3rd-5th $3

Everyone is welcome to stay at the end of the field trip and enjoy their sack lunches in the museum.

Back to school after the Christmas break

2009-01-05T12:30:00.000-06:00

It is back to school for the Baker family. Two weeks of vacation and enjoying lazy days are soon over. While I had a lot of fun on vacation, I am excited to get back to our normal routines. Let's just hope the girls like it as much!

New Year Presents

2009-01-04T22:09:00.002-06:00

Last year the girls were able to get their ears pierced on New Year's Day. This year, I wanted to do something special as well. So, Jason and I decided to give them dates throughout the year. I don't know if you are like us, but our intentions are always better than our application!

This year, however, I have a plan AND stickers for my calendar! I am excited about it and it is very do-able! We have three girls and two parents, so we have a rotation schedule.....just follow along and you'll get it, don't worry! January is Jason's date with #1, February is my date with #2, March is Jason's date with #3, April is my date with #1, May is Jason's date with #2 and June is my date with #3.....July through December just repeats! In 12 months, each girl gets 2 dates with each parent! No one has hard feelings because Dad took so and so out and not me...when will it be my turn, etc., etc.! After giving the present to the girls, they were very excited and anxious about when we would be putting their sticker on the calendar!

Have a Happy New Year!

Cookie Day!

2008-12-22T20:40:00.002-06:00

Well....we are officially done with school for 2008. To help launch our 2 weeks of Christmas vacation, we had cookie day today! Some might think I am nuts, but I thought it would be fun to let the girls do their own cookies this year. I have already made a double batch of cookies for the cookie exchange and they were eager to get in on the action.

So, today was the day! I made a big batch of buttermilk Christmas cookies and split it three ways. They rolled, cut, baked (with some assistance from me for this step only), frosted and decorated a TON of cookies all on their own! I let them know their cookies are THEIR cookies. They can keep them, share them or give them....whatever they would like to do!

I cannot tell you how excited they were for today and how proud they were with their little works of art! I like to consider days like today my Christmas gifts to them. They will remember them because I remember the same kind of days with my family!

Enjoy the next couple of days before Christmas!

Old Schoolhouse Magazine Archives Page

2008-12-20T13:58:00.002-06:00

This is a great link to keep handy. The Old Schoolhouse Magazine archives page has something for everyone! Check it out if you want a little refresher in the midst of winter.

http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs093/1101381905269/archive/1101916894812.html

Christmas is coming...

2008-12-16T16:32:00.003-06:00

I always feel better after the first measurable snow of the year. I love the snow. So, now that we have had some snow, I have made some cookies and we are nearly done with our schoolwork.....Christmas is coming!

One of my favorite Christmas memories is pulling into the driveway of my Grandma and Grandpa's home in Casper, WY. They had a big picture window and we would just watch all the big snow flakes come down! They are now both in heaven and I miss them terribly, but this time of year always reminds me of all the Christmas celebrations at their home!

Moms Night Out Christmas Cookie Exchange

2008-12-08T08:26:00.003-06:00

This is pretty adventurous for our group, but I think it will be fun and festive!! Please give it a try. We are a forgiving group and will love YOU and YOUR COOKIES TOO!

Come spend a fun and festive night out with other homeschool Moms! Sample delicious home-baked treats and end the party with a large batch of assorted holiday cookies to take home!

What: Mom’s Night Out
What will we be doing: Christmas Cookie Exchange
Where: Mary Hughes Home (Northwest of 180th and Center)
When: Friday, Dec. 12th 6:30pm
What to bring: 4-6 dozen of one type of cookie (we will eat some there and each person will be able to take home a nice selection to their family). See guidelines for a cookie exchange listed below.

RSVP by Tuesday, Dec. 9th...so you can get to baking!

Guidelines for a cookie exchange
All cookies must be homemade
Please bring 4-6 dozen cookies (the variation is due to the fact that some cookies are more time intensive. You are more than welcome to bring MORE than 4 dozen…please!)
Theme is Christmas cookies – no chocolate chip unless they are really different
Avoid no bake cookies
Arrange your cookies in a basket or platter…be creative (I know….but you can do it!)
Bring a large container to carry away your cookies…remember, you’ll be able to take a bunch home to your family!
Bring a copy of your recipe
If you don’t have time to bake, feel free to buy some from a real bakery!

*IMPORTANT TIP*
Bake your cookies at least 2-3 days in advance. The biggest reason for not coming is you don’t have time to bake them. This means don’t bake them on FRIDAY!!! Another reason to do it early is that it gives them time to “dry out” a bit. A freshly baked cookie is not a good cookie to take somewhere.

This Mom’s night out will take a little bit of effort and it will be worthwhile!

Ideas for cookies:
http://www.christmas-cookies.com/
http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Desserts/Cookies/Christmas-Cookies/Main.aspx
http://family.go.com/food/recipe-599640-christmas-cookie-recipes-t/?CMP=KNC_fam_google_christmas_twelve_cookies

Monthly Meeting Reminder

2008-12-02T13:07:00.003-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday weekend! We enjoyed Thanksgiving Day in Auburn with over 100 people from the Darling Family (Jason's side). Then on Friday we cooked a 20+ pound turkey for dinner here as well as watched the AWESOME Husker game!

We have a monthly meeting THIS Friday. Hope you can make it!

Friday, December 5th
KNIGHTS Monthly Meeting – 2:30 to 4:00pm Gretna Community Church. We are having a Lego robotic demonstration, large group PE activity and free gym time. We will practice push ups and shuttle runs for the presidential fitness test.
*Please bring: water bottles for the kids! Bring one curriculum item you have been wanting to share with the group. We should have time to do it this month!

Some things to keep in mind for December:
· Friday, Dec. 5th – 4-H Science (for those who are enrolled)
· Friday, Dec. 12th – Presidential Fitness Training Session (for those who are participating)
· No Field Trip Scheduled for December
· Mom’s Night Out is a Cookie Exchange - Friday, Dec. 12th looks like it will work for most.

Joslyn Art Museum Trunk Rental

2008-11-19T08:00:00.001-06:00

Did you know that the Joslyn Art Museum has trunks they check out on loan to educators and community groups? I totally forgot about this until late last night when I was thinking about our project for the week. We are studying Ancient Civilizations and it just came to me that they had this program! Feel free to check it out at their website. They have a little directory of what they have in each trunk http://www.joslyn.org/Education/Resource-Center.aspx

Here is a description from their website:
Outreach Trunks
Joslyn's Outreach Trunks are multidisciplinary education resources designed to strengthen students' appreciation of art. They are excellent stand-alone materials for use in the classroom, and can also help teachers prepare for or follow-up their visit to Joslyn Art Museum. Trunks can be used with any grade level unless otherwise noted.
Trunks are available for loan to schools and community groups at no charge, and can include materials such as:
Teacher guides with lesson plans
Hands-on objects
Poster reproductions
Classroom activities
Books
Videos and DVDs
CDs of images
In addition, we are proud to offer two new Outreach Trunks designed specifically for students with special needs. We have also included Braille and large print descriptive labels for all hands-on objects in the trunks.
Please note that Joslyn will ship trunks via UPS to teachers outside of the Omaha metro area. Teachers within the Omaha area are to pick up and return the trunks to Joslyn Art Museum.
For more information please call (402)342-3300 or click here to email Joslyn's outreach staff.

Other trunks are also available through the Nebraska Humanities Council. They have 4 cultural encounter kits available.
http://www.nebraskahumanities.org/speakers/trunkguide.html

http://www.nebraskahumanities.org/speakers/trunks.html

Baktoberfest was a success!

2008-11-17T09:40:00.003-06:00

Baktoberfest was a success! I thought we would share some pictures!

Shelby had a teddy bear party!

Sierra had a horse party!

Savannah had a pottery party!

Rotella Bakery

2008-11-14T09:27:00.002-06:00

November Field Trip to Rotella Bakery
http://www.rotellasbakery.com/index.asp
6949 S. 108th St.
LaVista, NE
592-6600
2:30pm – 3:30pm
RSVP Required * Cost is FREE!
Plan to arrive a few minutes early and enter through the retail store. We will take a tour through their new facility and plant. We will see 3 different mixers that can hold up to 1600 lbs of dough, ovens, cooling conveyers and bread lines.

Adoremus Sale

2008-11-10T15:27:00.003-06:00

You might not have realized it, but we have a great store in town that carries homeschool materials. The store name is Adoremus and it is located on 84th street, just south of center near the Shopko (in the old Baker's building). They have a sale going on right now and are offering 20% off the ENTIRE store...including homeschool material! This is a great sale. Check them out and enjoy the savings!
http://www.adoremusbooks.com/

Fun at home!

2008-11-05T09:04:00.004-06:00

Well, we had a fun few days with the girls, the weather and the election. Most political races came out the way we had hoped. The girls got involved and learned they could help impact local races! (Yeah for Scott Price!) It was so fun to see them actually recognize the candidates names scrolling at the bottom of the television. The pictures proudly show our efforts with the leaves and our first lapbook! YEAH!

Flexibility

2008-11-03T09:15:00.003-06:00

The beauty of homeschooling is flexibility. We all hear it, we all have seen examples of it, but do you really practice it? Many of us take advantage of the ability to let our children get their needed sleep or choosing curriculum, but I am talking about sometimes just taking a day to enjoy your kids, your family and what is going on in the world at this point in time. We have chosen to do that the next couple of days.

This election is a very important time in our life! Our kids will be 4 years older the next time we have a Presidential election! We have decided to spend some time today and tomorrow just focusing on the election and what exactly is going on in our country. It may seem strange, but I am excited about doing this! I have always loved politics and government and what a great time to share that with my kids!

So, try not to be so tied down to your curriculum or your plan. Work and study hard with your kids so you are able to take a few days off of your normal schedule to do those special things that your kids will remember!

Here is a great lapbook to get you started:
http://www.notebooklearning.com/2008/02/free-presidential-elections-lap-book.html

LOVE Pandora!

2008-10-23T11:46:00.003-05:00

One of our new favorite "techy" things is Pandora.com! If you haven't heard of it or checked it out, you should! It is a new kind of online radio created by the Music Genome Project. You can read about the project on their site. Basically, they have identified certain traits or sounds in music and created playlists that "fit" your style. You can further customize it as you listen to your customized playlists. Very fun!!!! My oldest enjoys the bluegrass!
http://pandora.com/

Win some...lose some?!?!

2008-10-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

As some of you know, we were kind of bummed out about our most recent field trip. For those of you who attended, I aplogize it wasn't as good as it could have been. The kids did seem to enjoy their part of it, however, the moms were a little disappointed and felt it missed the mark somewhat. While we were left feeling a little frustrated, we were also reminded why exactly that we homeschool.

We homeschool so that we can: answer any question our kids throw at us, take our time...even on our busiest day, let our kids touch and feel anything in their surroundings (including logs!), let our kids run and jump on anything in the outdoors (including more logs), let our kids participate together, have fun with the boundaries that are appropriate for our family, challenge our younger kids to levels we feel they can handle, make decisions about our kids education, and have fun!

So, on your next hike in the outdoors, take the ENTIRE family along. Take your time, touch the outdoors, collect things, answer questions and enjoy one another at a slow, casual pace!

Presidential Fitness Challenge

2008-10-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

The first session is THIS coming Friday, October 24th from 2:30-4:00pm. Please email me your child’s name and age if you are interested in doing this with the Gretna KNIGHTS. The training sessions following this session will be scheduled with the participants’ schedule in mind. Cost of the sessions are listed below…it is a GREAT deal! You basically get 8 sessions and the test for $35 per child!

If for some reason, you are interested but have a conflict on the 24th, please also email me.

Any homeschooler between the ages of 6-18 can join us!

Presidential Fitness Challenge

The Gretna KNIGHTS are participating in the Presidential Physical Fitness Test this year. The program encourages students to make staying active a part of their everyday life. We are partnering with Fast Forward Fitness to do this as they are a qualified instructor! It is going to be a very fun activity and each child will feel a sense of accomplishment! Anyone is welcome to join us! Our goal is to have at least 50 kids between the ages of 6-18. If we do this, we can get a State Champion Award!

The plan is to have 8 sessions with the Fast Forward staff and then participate in the testing in April. The first session will be a benchmark type of test for the kids. The remaining 7 sessions will be training and conditioning sessions where the staff will work with our kids on the components. The final step is the actual fitness test in late April.

Fast Forward is willing to do it for $25 for the 8 training sessions plus $10 for the test, for a total of $35 per child. This is a GREAT deal! We will space the sessions out over the coming months.

For more information , a “Get Fit” handbook is available at this website: http://www.presidentschallenge.org/pdf/getfit.pdf

Our 1st session will be Friday, October 24th from 2:30-4pm at Fast Forward Fitness. The address is 13405 I Circle. It is located on the North West side of 132nd and Industrial in a business park. All kids are welcome to attend, however, only children age 6 and older are able to participate in the actual test in April.

If you would like more information about Fast Forward, their website link is listed below. The owners are great to work with and are very excited to be working with homeschoolers!

Please email me and let me know if you are interested in participating!

The State Champion Award is given to one school in each of three categories with the highest percentage of children earning the Presidential Physical Fitness Award. Winners receive free special awards for the students who earned the Presidential Physical Fitness Award as well as a certificate for the school. You must have at least 50 students in order to be eligible. If your home school is part of a co-op that has 50 or more students combined, you can enter as one home school using your results.

Please Vote!

2008-10-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Election day is just 15 days away! Please vote! There is a great website for information in Nebraska. Please take the time to read about what is going to be on the ballot in your state, county, district and city! It is VERY important that your voice be heard! http://www.voterinformation.org/

Gifford Farm

2008-10-08T08:00:00.003-05:00

October Field Trip - October 17, 2008
Gifford Farms
*RSVP Required by Tuesday, October 14th *
$5 per child or adult. Bring check or cash the day of the field trip.

Feel free to come have lunch at 12:30 or 1pm at the picnic tables(before the field trip)!

Prek-1st grade Seedlings/Outdoor nature
2-3rd grade Saplings/Outdoor nature
4+ grade Friends of Discovery ProgramPlease email me the child’s name and grade level

When: Friday, October 17th 1:30pm-3:30 (you can plan to have lunch there before the field trip)

Where: GIFFORD FARM 700 Camp Gifford Road Bellevue. NE 68005 http://www2.esu3.org/esu3/index.cfm?dept=gf&action=31&ID=107

Gifford Farm Education Center provides educational programs to area youth and the community, serving over 25,000 visitors annually. A working farm, this multifaceted education area has more than 400 acres of farmstead, pastures, crop land, woodlands and a small pond. Located along the Missouri River bottom just outside of Bellevue, NE, it is surrounded by 1,200 acres of woodlands known as Gifford Point, which has over 5 miles of river front.

How much: $5 per child or parent

Virtual tour (really good for little ones!): http://www2.esu3.org/esu3/fanfarmfun/horse/horse.htm

What we are doing:
We will have 2 to 3 groups of kids going on a tour, depending on the number of kids participating.
Prek-K and 1st-3rd : Woods program (Seedlings and/or Saplings & outdoor nature classroom)
3rd or 4th and up: Friends of Discovery program

Baketoberfest

2008-10-07T09:38:00.004-05:00

We are now in the midst of Baketoberfest (a term recently coined from a close friend)! It is a holiday time in our household that you may or may not know about. You see, we have all three girls' birthdays within a one month time frame! We have lots of parties, lots of cake and lots of celebrating! Jason usually tries to kick in a BBQ festivity in there as well! YIKES!

This year we thought it would be fun to take a school holiday (not even doing grammar or math!) on their birthdays! It seems to be a hit with the kids! It is almost 10am, they are in their pajamas and still watching cartoons....a kid's dream come true!

Enjoy your October and remember to have LOTS of fun when celebrating your birthdays!

School House Rocks

2008-10-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Okay...my new favorite thing is the new School House Rocks Anniversary DVD! This thing is just great and Amazon is selling it for only $14.99! There are over 50 songs on this 2 DVD set! We have had a lot of fun watching and singing along with the DVD! We are studying prepositions and so we went to the preposition song! The girls favorite is the Number 3 song and I'm just a Bill! There is a new song about the Electoral College, which help explain the election process! Enjoy!

http://www.amazon.com/Schoolhouse-Rock-Special-30th-Anniversary/dp/B00005JKTY

On Leave

2008-10-03T22:09:00.003-05:00

This past week has been pretty crazy for us with Jason's Dad in the hospital. He is on the mend and will be home soon. Sorry for not posting much!

Presidential Fitness Test

2008-09-25T10:43:00.003-05:00

Hereis a great link for the Presidential Fitness Test we are practicing for this year....
http://www.presidentschallenge.org/educators/program_details/physical_fitness/events.aspx

One on one time

2008-09-22T08:00:00.002-05:00

We will be starting week five of our school year this week...already?!?! It is such a cliche, but time is passing very quickly. So far, the school year is going well. I eased up on some of my scheduling, lightened our load with a little less activities, and tried spending more one on one time with each of my girls.

We have been starting our school day by reviewing their assignments and what the schedule looks like for the day (which seems to really help my middle child...she likes to know what to expect!). After our morning huddle, we do our one on one time, which has been really fun. A good friend of mine shared how she spent her mornings with her kids (Thanks Mary) and I thought it was worth a try! She spends one on one time with each of her kids in the am...sometimes it might be one hour, other times it might just be 30 minutes. Either way, the kids seem to really LOVE this idea! I rotate who starts out the one and one time and they are curiously excited to be with just me! They get to pick what we work on together. Sometimes it is grammar, sometimes it is math and sometimes it is a game with just the two of us! When they are not in their one on one time, they are doing work that can be done independently (and yes, even my 5 1/2 year old can work on her own for a while!)

If you have more than 2 kids and you haven't tried the one on one time, I would highly recommend it! It has been a fun way to change up our school schedule this year!

Lauritzen Gardens

2008-09-15T13:20:00.001-05:00

We have a field trip Friday!

Friday, September 19th – Lauritzen Gardens
1:45pm-4pm
RSVP Required by Wednesday, September 17th

We will gather outside Lauritzen Gardens at 1:45 to collect payment and get organized. The tour starts at 2pm, so please be on time. If you would like to come early, you could check out the locomotives and even have lunch up by the locomotives (that area is free).

Come take a one hour guided tour of the garden and then play in the Kid Structure Outdoor Exhibit. The gardens are open until 5pm, so you can stay as long as you like. It is located close to Henry Doorly Zoo. You take the same exit, however, it is on the North side of the interstate and east of 10th Street. The signs will direct you to the “Botanical Gardens”.

https://www.omahabotanicalgardens.org/

Kids $3 (kids under 6 are free!)
Adults $7
*Please bring exact payment the day of the field trip.

Imaginative KidStructure exhibit to run through October 5, 2008

A Project of the Lauritzen Gardens Guild

Never before has a garden visit spurred such whimsy, magic and fascination for children. KidStructure, an outdoor exhibit of structures custom-designed by area architects and contractors, will ignite the imagination of all who experience these creative structures for the young and young-at-heart.

KidStructure stretches the definition of traditional playhouse design. These unique and adventurous structures will encourage interactive learning, garden exploration and, most importantly, imagination!

Star Gazing

2008-09-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Nebraska Star Gazing Party
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is hosting the Stargazing 2008 parties. May 9th, June 13, July 11, August 8 and September 19, join the Omaha Astronomical Society and Prairie Astronomy club and view the spectacular sky using the powerful telescopes! Stargazing begins at the golf driving range from dusk to 11 pm. Weather Permitting. Don't forget to join the 15th Annual Nebraska Star Party at Merritt Reervoir, near Valentine, NE at the Snake River camp ground. It starts July 27 and goes to August 1. A Park Entry Permit is required. Contact: Administration OfficeContact Phone: 402-944-2523 , ext 7122 Contact Email: mahoney@ngpc.ne.gov

Thursdays?!?!

2008-09-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

What is it about Thursdays, November and February? I get tired when all of them come around. It just seems tougher to keep the normal rountine going! After nearly 3 weeks of school, I get tempted to slack off or get distracted and not complete my housework or our schoolwork. What is that all about? I know we have worked hard all week (or all year) and everyone is pretty tired. I know the weekend is right around the corner. I also know I should just push through it and I am ALWAYS bummed out when I do actually let myself slack off! In a proactive measure, I have scheduled lighter school days on Friday. So, today...I will not slack off! I will keep on track and do my chores and the school work we've scheduled! I will look forward to our lightly scheduled Friday! Hope you have a great Thursday!

9/11

2008-09-11T07:37:00.004-05:00

If you have kids that don't remember 9/11, here are a few websites that may help.
http://www.familiesandwork.org/911ah/911ashistory.html

http://www.history.com/minisites/9-11

Here is a neat prayer:
http://christianity.about.com/od/patriotdayseptember11/qt/september11pray.htm

Barbie Mummification

2008-09-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

As some of you may know, we are doing Story of the World - Volume I for history this year. We are studying Ancient Times and the book recommends we mummify a chicken. While the thought of that is intriguing, I found some links for mummifying a barbie instead. This link is to one of the best ones, especially with the cool pyramid! We'll let you know how it goes!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aID8ID7keV0&feature=related

Here is another one...same idea
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/jaminacema/319302/

What's this caterpillar

2008-09-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

Jason found this site and it is really cool! This is the season for caterpillars and this is a great resource for identification of the most common furry things our kids love to bring in the house!http://www.whatsthiscaterpillar.co.uk/america/

Homeschool T-shirts

2008-09-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was thinking of getting some of these for the girls (the “homeschool girl” one). If you want to go in on an order, let me know!

T-shirts are $5.99. Shipping is 0.75 cents. If we order 10 or more the group name can be added to the back of the shirt for $1.50. If we order 26 or more it can be added for $1.
They also have tote bags and other things.
http://www.greathomeschooltshirts.com/

Here is a link that takes you to the shirts they have:
http://www.greathomeschooltshirts.com/productpage123.asp?CategoryID=1

Let me know and I would be happy to put together an order, but it has to be by end of day on Wednesday!

Shana B.

Husker Schedule

2008-09-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

Our group toured Memorial Stadium last spring. Don't they look official at the press conference table?!?!? We are also BIG Husker fans in our house! Make sure you know when the games are by clicking on this link:

http://www.huskers.com/SportSelect.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=100&KEY=&SPID=22&SPSID=3

CoCo Key Homeschool Days

2008-09-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Feel free to take your homeschool family to CoCo Key and enjoy the water park at a great discount!

If you visit http://tickets.cocokeywaterresort.com/ and enter the Store Name OMAHA HEN, you'll be taken to the homeschool discount. It's $8 per person on Tuesdays/Thursdays before 3pm, and then there's a smaller discount (20%?) the rest of the week. Or, you can buy tickets at the door by asking for the homeschool discount, but if you choose to do this, I'd recommend calling ahead to make sure that we have occupancy (really only a potential issue during public school vacation time).
Enjoy CoCo Key - they're glad to have homeschoolers back!

Monthly Meeting Reminder

2008-09-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Reminder:
Gretna KNIGHTS Homeschool Group Monthly Meeting
This is a kid focused meeting so they can have some fun with other homeschooled kids! Moms come and have fun WITH your kids and the other Moms.

Where:
Gretna Community Church (the church next to the Speedee Mart on Hwy 31/6)
321 S. HWY 6 Gretna, NE 68028

When:
Friday, September 5th from 2:30-4:00pm. Please be ON TIME! We are going to start the meetings promptly this year so we can all get home on time and make dinner! We will meet on the first Friday of the month from September until May.

What we’ll do this month:
1. Round Table Time – Introductions and birthday recognition. We’ll talk about what we are going to do this year as well (field trips, music concert, Mom’s nights, play dates, etc.)!
2. Show-n-tell – Please bring something from summer to share with a small group of other kids your age (from vacation, from family things, from school projects, from the creek, from the ER, etc.)
3. Presidential Fitness Preview – Daryl Kucera from Fast Forward will come visit with our group about some neat plans for the Presidential Fitness Challenge.
4. Free Gym Time

What to bring:
Moms:
1. Bring ONE of your favorite curriculum finds this year…Only ONE thing! Please make sure it is labeled with your name. We’ll have them in one of the classrooms for you to browse through during the meeting. Feel free to ask questions!
2. Bring your calendars so we can set our 1st Mom’s Night Out!
Kids: Bring a water bottle and something for show-n-tell!

Just for Moms: I’ll have some sign up sheets for some things this year. Please prayfully consider how you can help us out! We will have sign up sheets for you to:
· Host a Mom’s night out (ie: playing bunco, curriculum share, cookie exchange, wine/cheese/cracker night, game night, etc.).
· Lead a large group PE activity during our monthly meeting once during the year (you pick which one…Oct, Dec, Jan, Feb, Apr)
· Lead a craft activity in November or February
· Someone to help out with helping the kids do some short plays for the year?!?!?!?

We would like to work on communication skills this year with the kids, so you will start to see something small every month that will help them become more confident with speaking in a group setting! Please start to talk to them about this and introduce this concept. We know every child is different and each child’s comfort level varies, however, everyone has expressed an interest in spending time on this skill!

I look forward to starting the year off! Please call or email me if you have ANY questions! Don’t forget to check out the new blog site! There is lots of info on the site, including a calendar of activities!

September Events

2008-09-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Grab your calendar and mark down these dates. More details are on the google calendar at the botoom of the page.

Friday, September 5th - 2:30pm KNIGHTS Meeting
Friday, September 19th - 2pm Lauritzen Gardens KID Structure Field Trip
Friday, September 26th - GO (General Outing) Day at Omaha Children's Museum
Tuesday, September 30th - Vala's Pumpkin Patch Homeschool Day
Wednesdays all month - 2:30pm - Gretna Girls PE Activities (Softball & Tennis)
TBD - Mom's Night Out (Game night)

Good and Muddy

2008-09-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

We had a great time at our mud stomp down in the creek at the at Gretna 4-H Camp! We hiked a little bit, climbed down to the creek bottom and then got really, really muddy! Twenty-three brave kids came and stomped through the muddy creek! What a fun mess we had!

Grandparents Day

2008-09-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Don't forget...Grandparents Day is coming up on Sunday, September 7th! Mark your calendars and make sure to mail something soon (how about a drawing from your kids?!?!) or call them on September 7th!

Worksheet Generator

2008-08-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

I love cool things that make my life easier and THIS is one of them. It is a worksheet generator. You type in the questions and it prints out a worksheet...Very clean and neat looking!http://teachingtreasures.com.au/worksheetsk-10/auto-wrksheet-gen.html

Supercook

2008-08-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you Darla for sharing a great new website! Check out http://www.supercook.com/! You tell it what ingredients you have in your cupboard and it gives you a recipe! How cool is that ! ENJOY!

Mud Stomp Updates

2008-08-25T21:30:00.002-05:00

The mud stomp has been moved to 1pm due to cooler mornings. Come to the 4-H center at 1pm for some muddy fun!

Ice Cream Social

2008-08-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone who came and contributed with the ice cream social! We had 78 people there! What a great turn out! What a fun time! I hope you all got to visit with old friends and even meet some new friends while you enjoyed your yummy ice cream treats!

Back to School for the Bakers

2008-08-22T11:02:00.005-05:00

We start back to school next Monday. I love getting back to school! Don't get me wrong, I LOVE summer as well. It is probably my favorite time of year, but there is something about the start of a new school year. I love the cooler mornings and the bustle of activities starting to appear on my calendar. I enjoy the anticipation and getting all of our homeschool stuff ready! We had a lot of shuffling around in our house with moving rooms and things around this year (switching space with Jason's office), but that just gives us a fun, new place to be for the year!

For our first day of school, we always have a special breakfast (usually made by Dad!), we take their pictures out by the ash tree (which reminds me I need to mow this weekend!) and then start the day out with a treasure hunt for their new supplies! They love doing this and giggle with joy at finding their new things! We usually do just 1/2 days until Labor Day, so we have time to still get to the pool. We are going to start with Math, Language Arts and History and then fold in the other subjects after Labor Day.

I hope you enjoy your first day of school. I know many of you have started already and some will start after Labor Day. Enjoy these moments. Take pictures and have fun.

Live Talk Tuesday

2008-08-21T09:07:00.005-05:00

This is a neat resource. You can dial in to the call on Tuesdays or listen at your convenience from your computer. They take place on Tuesdays at 1pm. If you want to listen to previous broadcasts, just scroll down to the bottom of the page. The first one aired on Aug. 12th and is about "How To Make Sure Your Child is At or Above Grade Level". The second one aired on Aug. 19th and is about "Focus On Fun – The Key to Motivation". The next one is next Tuesday! Very useful info!
About the show
http://www.homeschool.com/RadioShow/default.asp
To listen from your computer
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/homeschoolradio