Homeschooling Resources Can Be Free or Very Costly

Home Learning

1179There are many resources available for new homeschooling parents today, private groups, classes, tutors, and online resources that are free or very costly. We always sought the free and found that the local library in our neighborhood offered a variety of homeschooling books, free language classes, children group activities, educational videos and computer learning software programs that have been very helpful in our journey. 20160121_103647

Although, the bulk of the materials we use has come from friends giving us their new and unused homeschooling resources, we still have had many items that we had to purchase from the store. Our store of choice for materials is the “Dollar Tree” where everything is a $1.00 and under. We have found many learning activity books, reproducible lesson grade sheets, coloring books, flash cards and many other school materials that have helped us in our life learning journey.

 

Just check out some of the items that I have found for a dollar at these stores.

20160120_07485620160120_07520820160120_074842

Teacher learning poster boards

Pocket charts, maps, and calendars

Learning flash cards

School workbooks and coloring books

20160120_07445320160120_07423220160120_074119

Dictionaries, thesaurus, and Bibles

Pencils, pens, paper and dry erase pads

Puzzles, toys and games

Art supplies, beads, marbles and more…

20160121_112214 20160121_112228 20160121_112240

The thrift and consignment stores also have used and new homeschool materials at great prices. We also have used Facebook homeschool groups and other online organizations that sell materials at reasonable prices.

Home learning is indeed a journey and what may work for one child may not work with the next. Be encouraged and always remember that God gave you everything you needed to teach your child or children, when He chose you to be their parent, so you can do it!

Our Homeschooling Journey

Home Learning

 

Many people have asked me, “how do I home school so many kids?” So, this is our journey from homeschooling to life learning coaching, for our children.

Our first real try at homeschooling began with a free K12 online program that was just beginning in Georgia. It was easy, the materials were free and my children had online teachers and classes. Unfortunately, due to a need for me to seek fulltime employment, I had to place the kids back in public school. That did not go over very well with our youngest daughter at the time, she cried and asked me everyday to be homeschooled. Well, we eventually moved and we decided again to home school the kids. We went back with the same program online, but this time it had really changed and it was more demanding upon our time and there was a lot of testing involved that reminded me more of public school and that was not what we wanted. So, we eventually moved to what we thought was a better school district and put the kids in public school again. The kids hated the new school and asked to be homeschooled repeatedly. We told them there was no going back if they came out of school this time. Oh, did I mention every time they went back to school, they were put in advanced classes, due to there test results that they had to take to get back into public school. So, homeschooling was always better than public school for them.

So, we agreed no more public schools and no more online school. Therefore, I gathered all my old material that the online school allowed them to keep and I scoured the thrift stores, library and online resources for help in homeschooling. Honestly, I struggled and it was hard trying to really grasp teaching my kids material that I honestly, had not learned or retained in my memory from school. I felt like a failure many days and that they were not really learning.

The wonder of the Lord is that after many conversations with other homeschooling moms, I realized everyone taught their kids differently and that every child learns differently. There where some parents that used online classes, videos, personal tutors, nature learning, shared homeschooler classes and the list goes on. I chose to embrace many of these methods and designed our own style of learning that I know they can take into their adult experiences. This is why we call it “life learning coaching.” We want to incorporate everyday interactions into learning opportunities. I call it intentional learning methods, where they can retain the information without a lot of repetitive information.

Example: We can go to the grocery store and discuss economics, ounces, measurement, accounting mathematics, production, science and the list goes on. The only limit is on your imagination. The kids are able to touch, visualize and even speak to people who are performing what is written in the textbooks. This is how you retain information, from life experiences.

Everyone’s homeschooling journey is different. It is important to remember why you chose to teach your children. I am reminded many days that “it is not the easiest choice for me personally, but it is the best choice for our children.”

RhondaR

2015 Reflection

The Blog

cropped-Rocks-and-water.jpg

The year 2015 has come to a close and I feel as though, I barely touched the surface for what I wanted to accomplish in blogging, teaching my children, personal goals and so on. The settled life I thought I had, left as we prepared to sell our house and the search for a new home dragged for over 4 months, leaving our family in limbo for almost 3 months in a 2-bedroom apartment. Exercise, health and weight goals went out the window, as I found myself pregnant, only to miscarry the baby, leaving me pondering the necessity of certain factors in my life. Life learning is certainly a teacher and it has taught me to remove stressful relations and activities that don’t enhance the life God has given me to live

Although, this world is in turmoil with devastating life events effecting people’s lives stretched across the globe. I view 2015 events with thankful and grateful eyes. Our family has learned to truly lean and depend on God for our strength and guidance. I have truly come to know that being content or happy is not wrapped up in people, places or things. The illusion of schedules, time, and control is just that, an illusion. My trust, faith and hope rest in God’s strength and direction to orchestrate our journey.

I want to encourage all who read this to “trust that God knows what He is doing.” Especially, in the “good, bad and down right discouraging events of our lives.” He cares for you, trust Him and His WORD. Release, rest and renew your faith in the unchangeable hands Christ Jesus.

RRobinson

Why A Personal Trainer is Worth the Cost

Fitness

Jaron 685

I started the New Year off searching for a gym that I could work out at. We finally found one and I really liked the “no contract” part of the gym. The fitness54 gym even offers “racquetball.” Now, keep in mind I have never played the game, so I have limited knowledge about it. However, I can tell you this, I love hitting the ball against the walls. It is super fun and good for your cardio workout.

We even decided to pay for a several nuvison personal trainer sessions. At first we were against it thinking we could do the work outs on our own. Yet, I had been trying for over a year to really get moving and get in shape to no avail. I just wasn’t motivated. Me and my husband do “marriage coaching”  thru the”thecolorofmarriage.com“. So, I realize the importance of motivation in accomplishing relationship goals and now I realize you sometimes need that same motivation in personal health goals also.

Our first session with the trainer was intense. Lunges, squats, planks and crunches were very hard for me. The next day I woke up to extreme soreness and I could barely walk. I am so glad he told us about establishing a workout plan that involved workout one day, rest the next day. We are currently are on week 3 of our work out sessions. I started at 194 lbs and today I am at 186 lbs. However, my main goal for fitness is health related, not weight. After birthing seven children into the world, I realize it will take a while for my 5’9 frame to get back to my target weight. I just don’t want to get rid of the aches and pains I had been feeling in the morning, from lower back and shoulder problems.

The training overall has been great and very painful. However, I wake up now without the pains that I once suffered back in January 2015. So, I am very happy about the results.  One thing that I liked about the nuvison trainers at fitness54 is that we gave them an amount we were able to spend on sessions and they were able to work with us. Yes, personal trainers service can be costly, but being in the hospital from health problems and purchasing prescriptions can be costly too. I would much rather take preventive measures, like diet and exercise, than having to take medication and surgical extremes.

Although, you may not be able to afford a personal trainer at this time, I encourage you to not take your health for granted. Get out of that comfy chair and get moving, even if it’s only walking daily.

 

 

The ” Closet Diva”

The Blog

149544_1501331534237_7516082_n

Getting married to my husband was one of the happiest times in my life. Unfortunately, we had to come home after the one night honeymoon, to an already established family. I had two little girls from previous relations and a whole lot of unresolved baggage. Let’s just say there is not a plane built that could carry all of the bags of drama that I had far away. My wonderful husband kept saying we are starting new, with ideas and life. I would just grit my teeth, smile and say okay.

But, things were not okay, I was a “closet diva” and I didn’t know it. You know the kind of person that hides her shopping trips in the closet, extra credit card or even a spare bank account to the dismay of her husband. I called it my “just in case plan.” Honestly, I wanted things my way and why shouldn’t I have it that way. I am supposed to be happy? Right? And, the only way for me to be happy is to have things my way. Burger King understands this concept, why can’t he? Well! My new husband did not get the memo and he wanted us to work together.

Together? That was a new concept for me. Although, my parents have been married 40 years, my mother ran what was done and you could clearly see and hear that they were not together all the time, on what she wanted. But, she always seem to get her way. So, what is this togetherness thing, my “inner diva” needs to know.

Proverbs 1:5 NIV (New International Version) let the wise listen and add to their learning and let the discerning get guidance.

Over the past several years I have listened to what God had to say about my marriage. I had to get rid of all those items that I held secret in my closet. The Word of God truly convicted me and showed me that if I expected honesty and trust from my husband, then I too must become what I expect. I also now know that “submission” is not a “curse” word. I have learned that we all have to submit to one another in some way. If, I can submit to a boss on a job, or an officer of the law, I can certainly submit to the husband that is following the leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

I submit to my husband, first, because I am commanded to do so. God does not make suggestions, so there is no such thing as “God’s submissive will” propaganda. Secondly, I submit, because “my faith is not in my husband’s ability, but in God’s ability to work thru my husband.”

I love the role that God has given me as a helpmeet to my husband. God’s Word truly has helped me get rid of most of the baggage in my life, literally and mentally. Let me tell you this, when you pray for God to help your spouse and change his heart, you are really praying for God to change you. Yes, all of my suitcases had to come out of the closet and let me say that the “Got Junk “trucks have can and went over the years to remove the debris. Now, I can shout “GOT JESUS!”

The blessing of being obedient to God’s Word requires that you do not pack up any new junk and put it in a suitcases for later. I just deal with the situations as they come and trust that God will help me thru it.

Proverbs 14:1(NIV) The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down

 

 

 

 

 

Fitness Ideals after 40 with Kids

Fitness

I never imagined that I would have to think about healthy eating and fitness. Yet, here I am seven kids later, 43 years old and 50lbs heavier than I should be. It is not that I can’t get up and exercise or eat better, it’s a matter of if I want to. My husband politely rubs my bulging stomach and says WE need to exercise. I look at his stomach and ask “how many kids did you birth into this world again?’

Although, I look pretty decent to be a mother that has birthed seven children into this world, decent is not good enough, especially when the crackle and pop of my body in the morning constantly reminds me that I need to stretch and start a regular routine.

Therefore, I have compiled a helpful list of ideals to get me moving and stretching with the kids.

1. Walking/Jog

Me and six of my children, entered and walked/ran our first 5k last year.

2.The Wii Dance move games.

I not only sweat with trying to do the dance moves, it is fun activity with the kids.

3. Explore trails and nature at the park or mountains.

Exploration teaches the kids about nature and can be implemented in home learning.

4. Gardening

Gardening with kids can really take patience, sweat and work.

5. Biking and roller blading with the kids

Both of these activities help with balance and really work leg muscles.

6. Basketball or football

I play basketball and football with the boys and it works all parts of the body.

7. Shopping

I try to group my shopping to one day twice a month. I carry a list of items and the store where they are found. The kids help with keeping the time and keeping me on task. I save money, time and I get a workout also.

8. Parking

Walking/running to and from the car can be a work out, especially with kids.

9. Jumping rope and hula hoops

I can do both of these activities with the kids or alone.

10. Leg lifts and stretching

The kids are my weights for leg lifts. I am strong enough to even flip my teen in the air.

11. Shout for Joy unto the Lord.

I put on praise music and we dance like David, praising the Lord. Energize your spirit.

Meditate on the Good in Your Life

The Blog

Psalm 37:4 (ESV )Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.(English Standard Version)

The other night I gave little RaRa our two-year old, two pieces of candy. Well, her eyes gleamed and she smiled with delight. As, I watched her enjoying the first piece of candy, she continued to smile and sort of giggle with joy. It was at that time that I noticed how late it was in the evening and I thought to myself, “she doesn’t need to each another piece of sugary candy before she goes to bed. “Therefore, I picked up the second piece of candy that I had laid beside her. Well, she saw what I did and her whole demeanor changed. She started to cry, even though she still had the first piece of candy in her mouth.  When this occurred God quickly showed me how I act like this little two-year old with Him.

Reflective Understanding:

We often forget God knows our heart better than we do. God’s desire’s to give you good things. He wants us to enjoy all of what he has given us, whether it is physical or material things. For example God may give you great health, wealth, marriage, notoriety, talent, freedom and even candy. Well, He may in His infinite wisdom allow something to be taken away. Now, even though you may be delighting in one or many of the gifts that He has given you, that one discomfort will cause you great suffering and pain. You may ask, “If He loves me, than, why does He take things from me? I believe the word we should look at is “take”.  I didn’t “take” the candy from RaRa, I “removed” it. She will receive that candy or a different piece later. That was my plan for her.

I believe, sometimes we just are we allow the enemy to blind us to what God is trying to do in our lives. Then what makes matters worse is, we neglect what hasn’t been taken or cease to enjoy it. Some people would rather give up and have a pity party. I am not saying that it won’t hurt or you won’t cry. My point is not to stay there and whaler.  Dwell on the good that you still have.  Also, realize that when loved ones go to see Jesus, that God is only removing them from one place to another. You will see them again. This is the same thought process with loss of jobs, homes, and even our children growing apart from us.

We need to enjoy the good that still exists in our lives and meditate on these things.

Philippians 4:8 (ESV)Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.

Prayer:

Our Father who art in Heaven Please forgive me for not being appreciative of the good gifts you have given me. Help me Lord to focus on what I have and not what I perceive I have loss. For I believe you know what is best for me and I trust you in your wisdom for my life.

Amen

Preaching the Message is Good, But Being the Message is Better!

The Blog

All my life I have drawn from hearing the saying “practice what you preach.” The truth of the matter is that someone, somewhere is watching, listening and observing our everyday interactions. Recently, a delivery man who was dropping off a package, decided to engage me in conversation concerning the drama that was being played out concerning a player being caught on tape beating his then fiancé. Well, he must have needed a direct Word from God, because that is what he got from me. He voiced his opinion to me, I am guessing, because I was volunteering at the Pregnancy Resource Center.  He further said that the football player needed to be a role model, because people are watching his behavior.

Of course the Holy Spirit had to proclaim out of my lips, “we all need to be role models“, whether we have a huge or small audience following us.” He thought for a moment and then said, you’re right. I do have the little kids that see my trunk in the neighborhoods and they wave. He quickly left after that interchange.

Reflective Understanding:

My point is that a good witness, is better than a thousand words.

God’s does not always need us to Preach the Message, We need to be the Message with our actions in life.

Hello world!

The Blog

Hi all and welcome to our small part of the big equation of God’s plan. My name is Rhonda B. Robinson, I am the wife of Joe Robinson of The Color of Marriage and have given birth to seven healthy children, ranging in ages 1-20 years of age. I am a home educator, currently a senior in college and I minister with my husband thru “thecolorofmarriage.com”, which is currently a coaching ministry for individuals and couples. I am only one of the authors of this blog and vlogs.

We will explore God’s grace, various cuisine, life learning lessons, health, fitness and simplicity in living.

Over the course of my life I have worked in all areas of the workforce  including the food industry, post office, security, retail and community outreach. I now work from home and it truly blesses my soul to be able to be with my children throughout the day.

Welcome and come explore with me on this journey.