Embracing Destiny

tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31051488601521624652012-01-30T11:02:13.765-05:00Embracing Destiny"If you don't sincerely attempt to live out what you claim to believe, then don't claim to believe it." -Soren KierkegaardSara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.comBlogger4401100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-68617678999240362642012-01-29T05:57:00.001-05:002012-01-30T10:47:34.998-05:00A Higher Calling: Week 3 (1 Peter Inductive Bible Study by Sue Edwards)

This week's lesson (1 Peter 2:4-10) focuses on our priestly calling. As I was reading, my attention was especially drawn to this passage (1 Peter 2:4-8): 4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-55281823416671082132012-01-23T06:22:00.000-05:002012-01-23T06:22:01.963-05:00TOS Crew Review: We Choose Virtues

It's a sad fact that being virtuous seems to be a lost art in our culture. So much so that those who do have a high standard of right and wrong are often mocked. In fact, that's one of the reasons on a list of many that we homeschool. I started searching for Biblical character training materials when Big Sis was about 3. She just turned 10 last month. In that time, I've read about and/or

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-16375651394838727052012-01-21T05:41:00.001-05:002012-01-30T10:36:37.462-05:00Craving the Word (1 Peter Inductive Bible Study by Sue Edwards)

I began a 9-week study of 1 Peter last week, which you can read about here. This week's lesson (1 Peter 1:13 - 2:3) focuses on our behavior as we try to live holy lives during times of adversity and the strength we can find only through Jesus. The emphasis is on what God has done for us so that we may live with hope, grace, and security. There are times when I feel defeated. Beaten down by

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-33015971246388318512012-01-13T16:42:00.001-05:002012-01-21T03:34:01.750-05:00Revel in your resources (1 Peter Inductive Bible Study by Sue Edwards)

It's been over a year since I did an intensive Bible study of a particular book of the Bible (Ephesians). I like the opportunity to really look at the scripture in one book, line by line, and examine the meaning more fully and deeply. I've missed doing that, so I was glad to have a chance to participate in the Kregel Blog Tour of 1 Peter: Finding Encouragement in Troubling Times by Sue Edwards

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-87365834255273947902012-01-13T04:01:00.001-05:002012-01-13T04:01:43.788-05:00A prescription for the good old days

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine. It's almost hard to believe that there was a time in this country when there was a little corner drugstore in every town where the pharmacist knew your name and cared about your health. Remember Mr. Gower in It's a Wonderful Life? What happened to those days? There have

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-78332666095373144542012-01-13T02:57:00.001-05:002012-01-22T05:43:58.033-05:00TOS Crew Review: Maestro Classics (Swan Lake)

Until my time on the TOS Crew this year, I had never heard of Maestro Classics. I'm so glad to have found them now! They offer CD's of classic children's stories set to music performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Classic stories plus beautiful classical music equals an enriching multi-sensory educational experience! What we received: The Story of Swan Lake CD Price: $16.98 for a

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-4609864509316738202012-01-11T11:36:00.004-05:002012-01-13T01:57:07.967-05:00TOS Crew Review: Zeezok Z-Guide to the Movies

Do your history lessons include curling up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and a movie? I know that my history classes were never like that in school! Thanks to the flexibility of homeschooling and a Z-Guide to the Movies from Zeezok Publishing, quality family movie time can also be learning time. I've mentioned many times that we're classic movie fans. If we're going to spend family

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-11271112506365862402012-01-06T11:10:00.002-05:002012-01-11T11:36:45.938-05:00TOS Crew Review: REAL Homeschool Spanish

Ella trabaja todo el dia en un banco. That is one of the very useful sentences I remember learning in my high school Spanish classes. It means "she works all day in the bank" and I can't tell you how much that has come in handy to know. *rolls eyes* I had three years of those Spanish classes and I suppose a reasonable amount has stuck with me, but I wouldn't want to be alone on the streets

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-66605117276963620212012-01-01T07:57:00.000-05:002012-01-01T07:57:08.628-05:00Blessings for the new year

If I could wrap up the best gifts for the new year to give to my family and friends, I would include these things: Grace, that you may forgive others and know forgiveness yourself Compassion, that you may help others when it’s within your ability to do so Contentment, that you may live in the moment Generosity, that you may freely give and thereby freely receive Hope, that discouragement

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-87797600917214930312011-12-28T08:17:00.000-05:002011-12-28T08:17:21.827-05:00Christmas snow

Did you know that Christmas snow . . . is more glittery than regular snow . . . tastes sweeter than regular snow . . . and is fluffier than regular snow . . . I didn't either, but Big Sis told me and she's an authority on snow so I believe her. ;0)

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-87404189508458730942011-12-27T13:37:00.000-05:002011-12-27T13:37:43.426-05:00Book review: "The Secret of the Missing Locket" by Deborah M. Lott

I've mentioned many times how much Big Sis loves to read. Even with our frequent trips to the library and our collection of books at home, it's difficult to keep enough reading material around for her! She recently read the entire Nancy Drew Notebook/Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew series and developed a love for those type of mysteries. She also enjoyed the Boxcar Children and is working her way

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-30913816846149375992011-12-25T06:08:00.000-05:002011-12-25T06:08:15.540-05:00Welcome to our world

Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-260690163979086482011-12-25T04:09:00.000-05:002011-12-25T04:09:00.864-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 12

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas! Merry Christmas from all of us at Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoyed these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you missed a few posts, I hope you'll be able go back through and read them on this blog over the next few days. If you'd like to keep up with Pearl Girls and our new book project,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-37840466090478388742011-12-24T12:09:00.000-05:002011-12-24T12:09:34.823-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 11

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas! Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year. AND just for

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-2411427061133535182011-12-23T05:59:00.013-05:002011-12-23T05:59:00.468-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 10

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-79218316852516607642011-12-22T05:54:00.000-05:002011-12-22T05:54:00.448-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 9

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-20198089897304523072011-12-21T10:26:00.001-05:002012-01-06T11:06:22.828-05:00TOS Crew Review: The World's Greatest Stories

One of the most important tasks I have as a mom, whether we homeschool or not, is passing along a solid Biblical foundation to our daughters. I want to make our faith accessible to them and show them that the Bible is the word of God to be used in every life situation, not just something we read on Sundays. To that end, I'm always looking for quality resources to make the Bible stories come

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-74869607213536841882011-12-21T05:51:00.000-05:002011-12-21T05:51:18.194-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 8

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-85618710052852941112011-12-20T06:20:00.005-05:002011-12-20T06:20:01.469-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 7

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-77028928565265769342011-12-19T10:59:00.000-05:002011-12-19T10:59:08.868-05:00"Cooper and Me" book giveaway winner!

Congratulations to Amanda, who was chosen by Random.org to win the Cooper and Me book giveaway. Thanks to all who entered! I'll be having more giveaways soon, so keep checking back. I'd also like to give a huge thank you to Angie at Propeller who handles these reviews and giveaways. She does a great job and I'm glad to have a chance to work with her.

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-88686302984159007212011-12-19T10:18:00.001-05:002011-12-21T10:23:28.676-05:00TOS Crew Review: Vintage Remedies

As a concerned mom, I'm mindful of the habits my daughters are forming in all aspects, from the food they eat to the books they read. I know from experience that it's easier to form good habits early on than to try to change bad habits later. That's why as I've learned to live with my autoimmune diseases, including Celiac, I've also learned to read the labels on food, cleaning products, and

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-9859575690450888602011-12-19T06:24:00.011-05:002011-12-19T06:24:01.308-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 6

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-53494393491735903122011-12-18T06:35:00.001-05:002011-12-18T06:35:00.596-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 5

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-1071044537175073312011-12-17T13:31:00.001-05:002011-12-18T01:35:28.634-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 4

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year. AND just for

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-60057394335250770192011-12-16T08:57:00.001-05:002011-12-18T02:06:36.738-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 3

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas! Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Babbie Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year. AND

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-28023895884673911252011-12-16T05:49:00.001-05:002011-12-19T07:07:29.452-05:00TOS Crew Review: Fractazmic by I See Cards

I don't know about you, but fun is not usually the adjective I associate with fractions. Yet I See Cards has managed the near-impossible by making fractions fun with their card game Fractazmic. The concept is ingenious -- make learning fractions easier by dividing them into suits like a deck of cards. The suits include tenths (green), twelfths (blue), and sixteenths (red). The object is to

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-38092264272734515732011-12-15T08:52:00.007-05:002011-12-18T01:56:39.172-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 2

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-43251733211840131482011-12-14T04:46:00.000-05:002011-12-14T04:46:12.007-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Day 1

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-8914851339595576472011-12-13T23:36:00.000-05:002011-12-13T23:36:03.372-05:0012 Pearls of Christmas Blogging Series from the Pearl Girls

Welcome to the 3rd Annual Pearl Girls™ 12 Pearls of Christmas blogging series! We've gathered several of today's most beloved authors to share their Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom"! Please follow along beginning tomorrow (Wednesday the 14th) through Christmas day as Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Rachel Hauck, Sandy Ralya, Sibella Giorello, Susan May Warren and more, share their heartfelt

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-70735622202447782362011-12-12T16:48:00.001-05:002011-12-15T02:54:40.693-05:00"Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure" book review and giveaway

In rhyming verse by Monique and Alexa Peters, Cooper and Me and the Winter Adventure tells the story of dogs Cooper and Bella, who decide to go sledding together on a very snowy day. They wander a little too far from home and get lost in the snowstorm. The book explores good safety practices for kids and what to do in case they become lost like the dogs in the story. My girls loved the book

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-38456343879410554822011-12-10T13:37:00.000-05:002011-12-10T13:37:16.130-05:00Deep calls to deep (Scripture & a Snapshot)

Psalm 42:7 (NIV) 7 Deep calls to deepin the roar of your waterfalls;all your waves and breakershave swept over me.

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-16277251073026928632011-12-08T17:38:00.001-05:002011-12-16T05:43:42.471-05:00TOS Crew Review: Pitsco Education

If you find yourself looking for new and creative ways to teach math, science, and even history in a hands-on, engaging way, look no further than products from Pitsco Education. They have designed kits and instructional materials to make it easy and fun for both teacher and student. The kits include robotics, alternative energy, engineering, historical, and more. What we received: Medieval

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-9580708127539729612011-12-07T14:39:00.002-05:002011-12-10T02:14:18.507-05:00"Baby's Little Bible" by Sarah Toulmin (Kregel Blog Tour)

It's never too soon to share Bible stories with your children, even as babies. It's important to have quality Bible story books with baby-friendly pictures they can enjoy. Baby's Little Bible by Sarah Toulmin is the perfect first introduction to favorite Bible stories like Noah's Ark, Jonah and the Whale, Daniel in the Lion's Den, the birth of Jesus, and his death and resurrection. The book

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-55581489015818618182011-12-06T15:30:00.000-05:002011-12-06T15:30:25.194-05:00Hip Homeschool Hop

If you're stopping by from the Hop, hello and welcome! Here are some of my recent homeschool-related posts: Artistic Pursuits November Wrap-Up Thanks for looking around!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-85061173305196721052011-12-06T13:36:00.000-05:002011-12-06T13:36:04.906-05:00FFH "One Silent Night" giveaway winner

There were 25 entries in the FFH giveaway and Random.org selected #25 as the winner this time. That means "Adventure Leader" wins. Congratulations! I'll be emailing you with details. Thanks to everyone who entered. Next up will be a Cooper and Me children's book giveaway, so keep checking back!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-8362138916731488572011-12-06T11:55:00.003-05:002011-12-07T13:24:28.111-05:00TOS Crew Review: Artistic Pursuits

I'm afraid I don't have any natural artistic talent. I can visualize what I'd like to paint or draw in my head, but it never comes out quite right on paper. Because of that, I've been reluctant to try to teach art to the girls. Big Sis took two semesters of a watercolor painting class and I was impressed with what she could do as a beginner. Thankfully she hasn't acquired that "fear of

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-70266338208188248362011-12-03T17:18:00.002-05:002011-12-06T11:52:15.816-05:00Monthly wrap-up for November

There were so many things I wanted to post in the month of November and I just didn't get it done. Those cute wooden scarecrow, pumpkin, and turkey centerpieces the girls made for Thanksgiving? Yeah, I didn't get to post about that, complete with pictures I didn't post either. The adorable turkey handprint crafts? Nope, didn't post those either. How about the super sweet fall tree crafts we

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-69689681189147307662011-12-01T10:57:00.001-05:002011-12-01T17:24:07.806-05:00Some thoughts on gratitude

There's a lot of wisdom in that quote and I'd like to remember to make it my motto! I try to remind myself of this fact when I'm overwhelmed by laundry and diapers/potty training and housework and all the things that have to be done. That drudgery will be forgotten one day, but the little memories we make each day will be treasured. I'll remember the giggles and the little girl squeals

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-33178813723728624312011-11-29T15:25:00.001-05:002011-11-30T12:23:14.871-05:00FFH "One Silent Night" Christmas CD Review & Giveaway

When DH first became a Christian and we started listening to contemporary Christian music on the radio back in 1999, FFH was one of the first groups we liked. "One of These Days" remains one of my favorite songs to this day. Although FFH took a temporary hiatus from touring and recording in order to focus on their marriage and family, they are now back with a Christmas CD called One Silent

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-34024216818208785942011-11-27T08:08:00.001-05:002011-11-27T08:11:03.408-05:00"Christmas Lodge" DVD winner!

Random.org selected #34 for the DVD giveaway. That means that Linda with this comment is the winner: Tucson Trinklein's said... Im following on twitter @lindatrink November 25, 2011 6:01 PM I'll be emailing you so watch your inbox. =0) Thanks to everyone who entered and thanks to Propeller for providing the DVD for the giveaway! If you're interested in more Christmas giveaways,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-37751220907157935412011-11-26T19:46:00.000-05:002011-11-26T19:46:43.546-05:00TOS Crew Review: The Reading Game

In an attempt to make learning to read "easy" and fun, I tried a lot of different resources with Big Sis (9). The vast majority (all?) were phonics-based because that's what I thought I was "supposed" to do. We diligently learned our word families and digraph blends and all of that. However, this lead to frustration at times when she was actually reading a book because, let's face it,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-10391030212892325342011-11-24T15:16:00.000-05:002011-11-24T15:16:28.298-05:00Happy Thanksgiving 2011

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. Psalm 100:4 Whether it's a huge celebration with family and friends or a quiet dinner at home, may your Thanksgiving be blessed!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-28775300908460702152011-11-22T06:44:00.000-05:002011-11-22T06:44:03.653-05:00Revolution Worship LIVE CD winner

Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway for the Revolution Worship LIVE CD! I used Random.org to generate a winner and it chose #18. That winner is: Barbara said... Amazing Grace November 21, 2011 2:32 PM I'll be sending you an email, Barbara! Be sure to enter my Christmas Lodge giveaway if you'd like to win that DVD. It ends on Friday at midnight (EST).

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-75694194790558369012011-11-21T05:28:00.000-05:002011-11-21T05:28:40.640-05:00Morning has broken (Scripture and a Snapshot)

Genesis 1:1-10 1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day,” and the darkness

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-72927597496046275582011-11-20T02:54:00.001-05:002011-11-20T03:00:33.115-05:00"Christmas Lodge" DVD Review & Giveaway (Propeller)

Thomas Kinkade is one of my favorite artists. I love the way he is able to capture light in his paintings. I realize that not everyone feels that way about him due to his "mass market" appeal, but I appreciate the fact that he's a Christian and that he even has an art curriculum for homeschoolers! I've read his "Cape Light" book series and now he has provided the inspiring artwork for the

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-8957329400083256322011-11-18T10:11:00.008-05:002011-11-21T16:18:22.220-05:00Field Trip: The Mayflower and Plymouth Rock

One of the advantages of homeschooling is being able to take an unexpected opportunity to make history really come alive for your children. When DH was scheduled for a training class for work in the Boston area, the girls and I got to tag along to explore the history-rich village of Plymouth, Massachusetts. It was the perfect timing to kick-off our Thanksgiving and Pilgrim studies for November

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-20101999394234579232011-11-17T22:01:00.002-05:002011-11-18T02:48:41.531-05:00Puppies Vs. Babies -- All in good fun

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine. Just when I think I've heard or seen it all, something like the Puppies vs. Babies online contest comes along. Leave it to the Discovery Channel and Animal Planet to host the heated debate of Puppies vs. Babies. I know a lot of proud parents of "fur babies" who would argue that

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-5966689328594738962011-11-17T09:09:00.001-05:002011-11-18T10:08:32.533-05:00Everyday blessings

My thankful list today . . . Warm, fuzzy socks on my cold feet Twinings Irish Breakfast decaf tea Little girls who play with dollhouses and rock “babies” to sleep Juicy Red Delicious apples The smell of cinnamon vanilla candles The cozy glow of lights inside the house against the early dark evenings Email from a friend My husband’s strong shoulders A good book that draws you in from the first

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-45909217598246954182011-11-16T11:34:00.001-05:002011-11-21T03:27:50.869-05:00Revolution Worship LIVE CD & Giveaway (Propeller)

Revolution Worship LIVE is not the kind of quiet praise and worship music that you might listen to as you drift off to sleep at night. No, this CD is the kind that gets your blood pumping, your feet tapping, and your hands clapping. It's the kind of music that gets the day off to a great start, especially if you're listening on your headphones while taking a brisk walk. It also works well if

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-65190120409938225632011-11-15T08:42:00.000-05:002011-11-15T08:42:11.250-05:00NaNoWriMo Halfway Point

I've been doing a lot of writing this month, but unfortunately not all of that writing was for my novel. I've had a lot of reviews and deadlines to meet. I'm still plugging along, though, and I still feel excited to focus on my creative writing again. Until November 30th, I am neither behind nor ahead. The goal is 50,000 words by that date. No matter what my word count right now, I can

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-25908436058917129292011-11-14T05:40:00.002-05:002011-12-01T10:48:13.604-05:00A second of thanks

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 A simple "thank you" can convey so much. Thank You for the gift of salvation. Thank You for the comforts of home. Thank You, Lord, for the new mercy of another 86,400 seconds today to be a better wife, mother, daughter, and Christian than I was yesterday. May it be so.

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-37667511087977216422011-11-12T05:56:00.001-05:002011-11-23T16:18:53.891-05:00TOS Crew Review: Keyboard Town Pals

I remember learning to type when I was in the 7th grade. I took a typing class as one of my electives. We had old Brother electric typewriters. Yes, I said typewriters. I do not pre-date computers, thankyouverymuch, but our typing class did it the old-fashioned way. I'm sure the things would be considered antiques by now! In that class I learned the proper hand positioning by doing one

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-65703286429492797172011-11-11T06:37:00.001-05:002011-11-14T05:41:33.048-05:00Veterans Day (Gratitude)

In honor of Veterans Day, I'm thankful today for all the men and women who have served our country in the past, who serve currently, and who will in the future. My gratitude, and prayers, are with them. My paternal grandpa served in the Navy during WWII and was at Pearl Harbor during the attack in 1941. Thankfully, he was not injured, but he certainly had an amazing firsthand story to share

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-63091048643359152012011-11-10T15:21:00.004-05:002011-11-17T08:32:22.402-05:00My family [Gratitude]

I could hardly participate in a Gratitude Challenge and neglect to mention the best blessings I have -- my family! Next to my salvation, they are the greatest gift God has given me. Without them, all the other things in my life wouldn't matter. I'm thankful for each day we have together and I try to treasure this time as I know it goes all too fast. After years of infertility, miscarriages,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-2085569301001585622011-11-09T05:42:00.002-05:002011-11-09T05:46:16.096-05:00The Three Trees by Elena Pasquali (Kregel Blog Tour)

There are some stories you remember by heart, though you can't exactly place when and where you first heard them. The Three Trees falls into the category of folktales for this reason -- it is a well-loved, memorable story that has been told for years. We had the chance to add it to our home library in hardcover by Elena Pasquali with illustrations by Sophie Windham, published by Kregel

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-1683106061844472732011-11-08T16:16:00.002-05:002011-11-11T21:52:13.353-05:00TOS Crew Review: The Person I Marry (Bower Books)

When you're in the thick of raising children under the age of 10, love and marriage can seem like a distant concept that you'll deal with far, far in the future. One day. As in, I'll worry about teaching my daughters about marriage after they're potty trained. However, when I see them dress up as princesses, "feed" and hold baby dolls, and act nurturing toward one another, I realize that God

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-64026048089995727512011-11-07T18:01:00.005-05:002011-11-07T23:27:16.001-05:00Homeschool Blog Awards 2011 Voting

I'm honored to have been nominated in the HSBA Post Homeschool Blog Awards this year and want to thank all my friends for actually reading what I write and being kind enough to comment on it! That alone is a reward in itself. I have made so many great friends and learned so much from everyone I've met through the blog world. Sometimes homeschooling can seem like a solitary endeavor, but then

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-62773873774062660072011-11-07T04:28:00.004-05:002011-12-03T21:10:29.170-05:00Splendor and Majesty (Scripture and a Snapshot)

Psalm 104 1 Praise the LORD, my soul. LORD my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty. 2 The LORD wraps himself in light as with a garment; he stretches out the heavens like a tent 3 and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters. He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind. As I watched the sun set on this peaceful

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-75903440717849255152011-11-04T18:07:00.003-04:002011-11-06T22:03:57.809-05:00Autumn on a country road

I'm thankful for beautiful fall weather, gorgeous colors, and three happy, healthy girls who love to jump in crunchy leaves! Simple joys . . .

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-35745874227904008182011-11-04T15:19:00.004-04:002011-11-08T15:48:20.894-05:00TOS Crew Review: Ooka Island

There's a new place to visit for phonics and reading fun on the web: Ooka Island Adventure. Your child will find the appealing colors, characters, and 3D graphics irresistible while you can appreciate all the learning! Designed especially for the 3-7 year old age group, Ooka Island Adventure combines the fun of a hero game with the basics of phonics-based reading called the OokaMethod. What,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-14499901938253121812011-11-03T05:25:00.004-04:002011-11-04T16:53:36.971-04:00TOS Crew Review: Memoria Press (Phonics & Reading)

There is no shortage of phonics-based programs on the market to help children learn to read. How do you decide which will work? Is there really a difference? Memoria Press, long-respected for the Latina Christiana curriculum, has entered the fray with a phonics reading program designed to accompany the Classical teaching method. Written by Cheryl Lowe, it is aptly entitled Classical Phonics:

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-7005938671315406202011-11-01T13:20:00.005-04:002011-11-04T18:07:12.805-04:00Do everything as unto the Lord (Gratitude Challenge for November)

Brenda at Garden of Learning is hosting a Gratitude Challenge for the month of November and so is the Young Homemakers blog. I thought I would begin the first day with something that seems rather inconsequential at first glance, though the significance becomes clear when you stop to count your blessings. Today, I am thankful for music because . . . it is a form of praise and worship for our

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-18724260273986442582011-11-01T01:58:00.003-04:002011-11-01T02:20:40.817-04:00NaNoWriMo begins!

November 1st marks the annual kick-off of National Novel Writing Month, commonly known as NaNoWriMo. I've thought about participating every year since its inception in 1999, but never have. Why? I'm not exactly sure. After all, I was a professional writer in 1999, actively writing every single day. I wasn't a mama yet so carving out the time would've been much simpler. It wasn't for lack

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-20514946428338366442011-10-30T15:27:00.003-04:002011-11-01T14:31:27.134-04:00TOS Crew Review: Lots & Lots of Fire Trucks (Marshall Publishing)

A fascination with shiny red fire trucks seems to begin at a young age in most children. It’s a good idea to use that natural interest as an opportunity to teach fire safety. Marshall Publishing has just the resources you need with Lots & Lots of Fire Songs & Safety Tips DVD and companion book Lots & Lots of Fire Trucks & Firefighters. With catchy songs and video of fire trucks in action,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-60041577060653485022011-10-30T13:25:00.004-04:002011-10-31T13:35:47.218-04:00TOS Crew Review: George Washington Carver (Marshall Publishing)

In addition to reading living history books and biographies, it sometimes adds an extra dimension to our learning to watch quality documentaries and movies with our studies. We had the chance to do this with the DVD biography of George Washington Carver from Marshall Publishing. Using beautiful nature photography and actual photos of George Washington Carver, this 30 minute documentary

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-31172694713158997422011-10-28T18:01:00.004-04:002011-10-29T03:15:34.065-04:00Economical cell phone options

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TracFone for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine. With economic concerns on everyone's mind, especially in one-income families like mine, it's good to find a low-cost solution for necessities. Although some would argue that cell phones aren't a necessity, I view them as good to have in case of an emergency if nothing else. I've mentioned

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-88722894853493183892011-10-28T12:40:00.003-04:002011-10-28T12:40:00.235-04:00Mom Bloggers Blog Hop

It's a little late to be getting in on this, but better late than never. I just found this October blog hop for mom bloggers. Link up and join in!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-6772571492939747692011-10-27T15:19:00.000-04:002011-10-27T15:20:19.201-04:00Baby Girl is 2!

Baby Girl turned two at the end of August and it is already almost the end of October! I know I say it over and over, but it's remarkable how quickly the days fly by. I just had to share something about her because, like her sisters, she is a complete joy to me. Dear Baby Girl, You are a delightful surprise in so many ways. When I thought we'd been thoroughly blessed by your big

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-81854747590580608742011-10-26T13:14:00.003-04:002011-10-27T15:30:44.110-04:00TOS Crew Review: Say Anything Family from North Star Games

In all the busy-ness of to-do lists, goals, and planning, it's nice to look forward to a little break in the routine. One of the ways we like to relax is by playing games as a family. We used to have a game night every Saturday, but with little ones it gets a bit harder to have the kind of uninterrupted time necessary to play Scrabble or cards. Finding a family-friendly game for everyone that

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-45977304996931462672011-10-25T14:40:00.002-04:002011-10-27T14:55:32.027-04:00TOS Crew Review: Wits & Wagers (North Star Games)

Do you have a family game night at your house? Looking for a new family friendly game for a Christmas gift? Wits & Wagers Family might be just what you need! Wits & Wagers (Family version) from North Star Games is a trivia game with a twist -- you aren't expected to know all the answers. Everyone is on an equal playing field as you attempt to guess the answers to questions like: How many

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-81750368758290863402011-10-24T09:23:00.000-04:002011-10-24T09:23:56.007-04:00TOS Crew Review: "Educating the WholeHearted Child" by Clay and Sally Clarkson (Apologia)

If I could sum up all of my thoughts and feelings on homeschooling, attachment parenting, the importance of reading quality literature, and a foundation of faith for our children into one book, I couldn't come up with anything more ideal than Educating the WholeHearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson. It was the first homeschooling book I ever read when I began homeschooling six years ago and

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-90762815372252795212011-10-21T16:46:00.001-04:002011-10-25T21:18:31.220-04:00Homeschool Misfits

I don't like to brag, but I'm a misfit. Okay, I'm not technically a misfit yet, but I've been nominated to be one! Lori at Not-so-Superwoman has a tongue-in-cheek homeschool blog award going on right now and I've been nominated in a couple categories. Before anyone gets upset and associates negative connotations with these awards, I hope you'll take it in the spirit in which it was intended.

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-634290051469618182011-10-19T15:38:00.000-04:002011-10-19T15:38:58.583-04:00Currclick sale and scavenger hunt

Just in case you haven't seen it yet, Currclick is having a sale now through October 31st. In addition to the 75% you can find on lots of items, including lapbooks, they are having a scavenger hunt to find 8 free items! I've only found 3 so far, but one of them was a great unit study on the Colonies that I'm excited about using. I still have some hunting to do! Click on the button below and

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-47568900193215311372011-10-18T23:49:00.003-04:002011-10-19T03:17:47.851-04:00TOS Crew Review: Always Icecream

When I hear the words "always ice cream" I don't automatically think educational website. Yet, in this case, that is exactly what Always Icecream is -- a fun and educational website designed just for girls in the 7-12 age range. I was intrigued by the concept of a website that could combine the elements of learning with the fun and games of other popular websites that allow for some online

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-69389839118020410112011-10-14T10:19:00.003-04:002011-10-17T11:43:51.602-04:00Bloggy Recognition

From time to time I ask myself, "Why do I blog?" Or my husband asks me. Or I read the answers given by other bloggers. Anyway, it's a legitimate question for the many, many bloggers who spend hours and years recording their thoughts, sharing their knowledge, and giving the world (or family and friends) a glimpse into their daily lives. In a nutshell, here are a few of my reasons: I don't

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-3602647608184999312011-10-13T13:18:00.000-04:002011-10-13T13:18:37.436-04:00Study of the Composers Blog Hop

Since I've been talking about music so much lately, I decided to link up with the Study of the Composers here: There's a new link-up every Thursday so you're welcome to join anytime! Julie is just looking for ways that you incorporate music into your homeschooling. It doesn't have to be on a regular basis, or formally, or even classical music. Just whatever you feel falls into the category

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-83486893662356461942011-10-12T18:55:00.002-04:002011-10-12T19:27:53.701-04:00Wednesday Hodge Podge: Books, Writing, and Jury Duty

1. Have you ever been 'asked' to report for jury duty? Were you chosen to serve? If not, were you happy or disappointed? I have been called for jury duty 3 times. I have never served. Why, you might ask? The first time I received a notice was when I was pregnant with Big Sis. High risk pregnancy, modified bed rest. I was excused for good reason! The second time I was called? Pregnant

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-13251420345351741062011-10-10T16:40:00.001-04:002011-10-10T17:48:10.947-04:00A Young Scholar's Guide to Composers (Timberdoodle)

When I was in the 7th grade, a good friend in my church youth group played the flute and the piano and listened to classical music all the time. She dreamed of a career in an orchestra one day. Through the years I've lost track of my friend, but I still have a love for the classical music that I became familiar with because of our friendship. Prior to that, I figured classical music was

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-89542069540473975062011-10-07T07:19:00.022-04:002011-10-16T14:11:45.946-04:00MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Review and GIVEAWAY!

***GIVEAWAY CLOSED*** Congratulations to Alane who won a copy of MyMemories! I've mentioned many times here that I love scrapbooking . . . well, at least in theory. I love the idea of beautifully arranging our family photos into keepsakes that can be handed down through the years. I love the creative process. I love the sense of accomplishment when a scrapbook is finished. So what don't I

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-64973605017986311642011-10-03T06:34:00.003-04:002011-10-04T03:57:34.377-04:00TOS Crew Review: Tri-Cross

What does a board game have to do with homeschooling, you ask? If it encourages fun family time (a part of the philosophy of homeschooling) and strengthens critical thinking skills, then it most definitely applies to learning at home! Tri-Cross from Games for Competitors fits the bill on both accounts. Combining the strategy of chess and the fun of checkers, Tri-Cross enhances logical

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-70613915762292732912011-10-01T01:32:00.005-04:002011-10-01T03:42:27.229-04:005QF

1. Do you apologize to your kids if you're wrong? Absolutely, although I try not to ever be wrong. LOL If they are to learn forgiveness and grace and unconditional love, I must be an example for them. In other words, I want to practice what I preach! 2. Do you have a class ring, Letterman's jacket, or similar obscenely priced high school "must have"?I do have a class ring with my

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-29469255539971118452011-09-29T09:58:00.001-04:002011-09-29T12:24:07.913-04:00Not-Back-to-School 2011

When I think of the word school, I picture an imposing brick building with bars on the windows that I dreaded returning to at the end of each summer. Okay, the bars on the windows weren't really there. It just felt that way! "Back to school" is an oxymoron in our family since home -- and the world around us -- is our school. It's not a dreaded institution where we're required to be quiet,

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-43327722894924916782011-09-28T05:18:00.000-04:002011-09-28T05:18:00.842-04:00TOS Crew Review: Guidecraft Hideaway Country Kitchen

You know when this arrives on your front porch, it's going to be a good day! The TOS Crew is certainly a blessing in our homeschool journey right now, but I have to say that the Guidecraft Hideaway Country Kitchen was an extra special beyond-what-I-imagined kind of blessing! It arrived in August, which just happens to be the birthday month for both Lil Sis and Baby Girl. It made a perfect

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-76470189080105355512011-09-26T10:01:00.004-04:002011-09-26T18:39:27.726-04:00Straight Talk on cell phones

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Straight Talk for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine. I appreciate straight talk in life, so when I heard about a phone plan called Straight Talk, I wanted to know more. Here is what I recently discovered about cell phone service from Straight Talk: There are no contracts, no surprise bills and no credit checks. Great nationwide

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-25394804547383221782011-09-24T23:18:00.000-04:002011-09-24T23:18:55.915-04:00Homeschool Mother's Journal Fall 2011

In my life this week… I've been busy organizing closets, swapping out summer clothes for fall, and trying to get some things ready to sell on eBay. Also working on several review items and trying to organize my homemade planner. In our homeschool this week… We're currently working on a unit study on marine mammals and ocean habitats. I am inspired by… Sally Clarkson's books on motherhood

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-78147770191983563752011-09-23T06:43:00.002-04:002011-09-23T07:55:33.643-04:00TOS Crew Review: AIMS Education Foundation

AIMS Education Foundation offers hands-on math and science resources for grades K-9. With colorful graphics, activities, and experiments, they make learning about math and science fun for kids. You can learn more about their objective by watching some short videos on their website. I'm always interested in finding new math resources since I feel the least confident in teaching this

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-82342462738751452672011-09-21T11:54:00.004-04:002011-09-22T03:00:48.629-04:00TOS Crew Review: Before Five in a Row

Literature-based unit studies are our favorite way to learn here in our little homeschool. I first heard about Five in a Row (FIAR) by Jane Claire Lambert over five years ago when it was highly recommended to me over and over by moms in my online homeschool group. I borrowed copies of FIAR 1, 2, and 3 and have used them with Big Sis in combination with lapbooking. I don't strictly use FIAR as

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-81898089017775861932011-09-18T23:02:00.003-04:002011-09-18T23:19:00.008-04:00Invisible Illness

I'm late in the game with this post as I just found out yesterday that it's National Chronic Invisible Illness Awareness week, ending today. However, it's never too late to encourage, support, and inform others about this issue. It's something I take personally as a sufferer of thyroid disease, PCOS, lupus, fibromyalgia, GERD, chronic fatigue and pain, and Celiac disease. I'm an autoimmune

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-31337840097943363342011-09-17T23:22:00.001-04:002011-09-18T20:07:46.896-04:00Homeschool Friends Blog Hop

I found a new homeschool blog hop and thought others might like to participate also. Check out this link for details: If you're stopping by my blog for the first time, please leave a comment and/or follow and I'll be sure to do the same for you! Thanks!

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-50355289358435861932011-09-16T11:31:00.004-04:002011-09-21T15:34:50.670-04:00TOS Crew Review: Big IQ Kids

Are you looking for an interesting way to enhance your spelling, vocabulary, math, or geography lessons? Tired of worksheets or boring drills? Do your kids enjoy computer time and online learning? Big IQ Kids might have just what you're looking for to add a little fun to the basics. Big IQ Kids offers several free online programs to try, including Spelling/Vocabulary, Math, and States/

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-12360384150704152842011-09-15T15:10:00.000-04:002011-09-15T15:10:27.576-04:00A Light Unto My Path

Sometimes life can take us down a path different than anticipated. I feel unsettled. I feel lost sometimes. I'm unsure of the next step. Remembering that I am a stranger in a strange land, I call out to the One Who knows where to find me. And where could I wander that You wouldn’t be? Whom have I but You who really knows me? Proven to be the God that sees From strength to strength You’

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-9439769651223031902011-09-14T11:49:00.002-04:002011-09-16T11:39:47.985-04:00TOS Crew Review: Time4Learning

Time4Learning has become a familiar name among homeschoolers as a leading web-based resource for comprehensive lessons in the major subject areas of math, language arts, social studies, and science. If you've read my blog in the past, you'll know that I've had an opportunity to review Time4Learning previously as well. As part of the TOS Crew, we were able to give T4L another try-out over the

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-59357756800562344472011-09-09T07:49:00.002-04:002011-09-09T10:15:51.564-04:00Protecting our homeschool freedoms

Having lived in 5 different states, I can say with some authority that laws regarding homeschooling certainly vary throughout the country. Even more than that, the interpretation and enforcement of those laws varies from district to district! What one superintendent might accept for paperwork requirements, another might question. Some of those questions are legitimate while others are just

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-49277334717613171732011-09-08T13:40:00.004-04:002011-12-13T00:17:29.228-05:00Book review: "When God Created My Toes" by Dandi Daley Mackall

When God Made My Toes I've been a fan of Dandi Daley Mackall's children's books since Big Sis was a toddler, so I was glad to have a chance to review her newest rhyming book When God Created My Toes. With a cute and catchy rhyming verse, Ms. Mackall looks at the world through the eyes of a little girl who explores questions like "Did God have to hold His nose when He created my toes?" The

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-25951871271433971482011-09-05T08:48:00.001-04:002011-09-05T08:48:14.950-04:00TOS Crew Review: "How to Have a H.E.A.R.T for Your Children" by Rachael Carman

Sometimes in the daily grind of getting things crossed off our to-do lists, planning lessons, meeting deadlines, doing errands, and just the busyness of life in general, we lose sight of why we do these things in the first place. Sometimes we need to take a moment to remember what led us to homeschool to begin with and why we press on even during the challenges. Sometimes we just need a quiet

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-31563743310207171032011-09-02T05:57:00.010-04:002011-09-02T06:38:27.818-04:00Labor Day Weekend Sale on Unit Studies & Lapbooks from Amanda Bennett!

Be sure to visit Amanda Bennett's blog and website this weekend to take advantage of the great sale prices as low as $4 and $5. It's a good time to stock up for the new school year! She's offering discounts on different Download N Go and Unit Study Adventures daily through Monday. We've used many of these in our studies and I recommend them. Click here to view more details Note: I have

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-19772192542660914622011-09-01T13:54:00.001-04:002011-09-01T14:23:04.121-04:00A new month, a fresh start

I generally look forward to fall as my favorite season -- the beginning of a school year with new and exciting things to learn, new crayons, blank notebooks to be filled, the anticipation of the holiday season approaching, the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves, the invigorating cooler air. Yes, I love fall! August was a difficult month in many ways, some of which I'm still trying to put

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-69962040824001582472011-08-28T01:01:00.009-04:002011-08-28T02:32:02.852-04:00First Blog Post Link-Up

Rodna at Training Children Up for Christ is hosting a fun link-up to showcase the first post you ever wrote for your blog. It's an interesting way to see how others began to blog and to look at what might have changed in your own blogging style or theme since that time. I looked back through my archives to see that my first post was in September 2008, so I'm nearing my three-year blogoversary.

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-17293181967250161012011-08-23T04:00:00.002-04:002011-08-23T04:00:07.680-04:00TOS Crew blog hop

As I've mentioned before, I'm a member of the TOS Review Crew this year. They're hosting their first ever blog hop as a fun way to get to know the members of the Crew as well as to meet new homeschooling friends. If you're a homeschooler, please join up and introduce yourself! All you have to do is sign the linky list and start visiting the wealth of information and experience shared by all

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3105148860152162465.post-38898036458157538552011-08-22T05:14:00.001-04:002011-08-22T05:26:41.241-04:00Happy Birthday, Lil Sis!

Lil Sis celebrated her 4th birthday at the beginning of this month. I've been thinking about what to write about her, but everything seems so trite in the end. I could tell you that the past four years have flown by so very quickly because she has added so much fun to our family. I could say that I scarcely believe it's possible to see her today at age 4 when it seems like just yesterday she

Sara @ Embracing Destinyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00185927273922194788noreply@blogger.com0