tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73999125313785925182024-03-19T01:13:46.866-07:00All The Rivers RunLindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-3410081444161593862016-05-13T07:00:00.002-07:002016-05-13T07:11:56.156-07:00Ever After<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3TkJDTWscJ-FSS4iDV2R76XG1ze9mW6Q-Zagu5DuojKWVlzx2cb8pJRkBcu4igcsCXwAbZmaQFVwdky2Pau3OKt1fg1fFc-O-7c04m_y0zrsYiw0I2WVETAirQN5gcvfMKBgPwNa48I/s1600/everafterheader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3TkJDTWscJ-FSS4iDV2R76XG1ze9mW6Q-Zagu5DuojKWVlzx2cb8pJRkBcu4igcsCXwAbZmaQFVwdky2Pau3OKt1fg1fFc-O-7c04m_y0zrsYiw0I2WVETAirQN5gcvfMKBgPwNa48I/s400/everafterheader.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Well it's been a while since I posted here but I wanted to share how excited I am to be a part of 'Life Book 2016'.<br />
<br />
It's been an amazing art journey so far - I've gone from someone who could only paint to landscapes to painting portraits - ME - Portraits!<br />
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You can check out Life Book here: <a href="http://www.willowing.org/life-book-2016/" target="_blank">LIFE BOOK 2016</a><br />
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However the reason I'm blogging today is that I want to share with you a BRAND NEW course from the same artists, entitled 'Ever After'.. a 4-month course which will begin on July 1st, which focusses on Fairy Tales! It's going to be a very fun journey, and is for all - from beginners to advanced.<br />
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You can check it out here: <a href="http://tinyurl.com/effyeverafter" target="_blank"> EVER AFTER</a><br />
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I recommend it for high school students and mums of all ages! No experience required - you become a part of a world-wide facebook group, and they are all soooooooo supportive! <br />
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If you have ever thought of taking an online art course - this is the one!<br />
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Happy painting!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Linda.</span></i></b></span></span>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-11413813494635768122015-01-10T01:08:00.002-08:002015-01-10T01:08:47.488-08:002015Sometimes, we reach a point where we are done waiting. Welcome to 2015!<br />
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I don't know if I'll revitalise my blog or not as yet... stepping down from blogging was a huge action on my part; based upon the opinions and.. well.. protests, shall we say, of others. I tried to do the right thing by ceasing blogging all together, but in the end, MY blog, MY life, MY opinions. Funny thing is, I always avoided the real controversial topics, never named names when speaking of my own personal journey through pain, and always removed any post that someone considered 'offensive', and yet, still I am still the bad guy. I've learned that, no matter what you do, you cannot please everyone :) <br />
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I've been planning our homeschooling for the year and awaiting our annual hs visit. The basic plan is to continue with that of last year. We are enjoying Mystery of History and as always, the various IEW products. This year, we are matching our history studies to the History-Based writing books. <br />
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It's amazing to realise that this year, I'm down to just three. THREE! Where have the years gone? In addition, this year our youngest turns 13. Yes, the wheels are turning, and life goes on.<br />
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We will start 2015 with an art workshop and a science camp... two full weeks coming right up! Should be a fun way to start the year.. after that.. we will see where life takes us :)<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span></span>. <br />
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<br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-72315700742578338242014-11-10T00:48:00.002-08:002014-11-10T00:48:38.326-08:002014 and Beyond2014 has been the year of new beginnings. It has also been a time to employ that famous prayer:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1rfMYwxIl9KEqruOJNMDG9T5VwKC0pNjXdCpmYP35_9Gub0S07unNkN0waIXDy8l-bO2uJn1_6KzLV_kpLeTMet2K50760Riwdna8dFHr7hQ0qatiGYUx1ccQTr9TbOQaiOu_3AV3sk/s1600/god-grant-me-serenity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1rfMYwxIl9KEqruOJNMDG9T5VwKC0pNjXdCpmYP35_9Gub0S07unNkN0waIXDy8l-bO2uJn1_6KzLV_kpLeTMet2K50760Riwdna8dFHr7hQ0qatiGYUx1ccQTr9TbOQaiOu_3AV3sk/s1600/god-grant-me-serenity.jpg" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
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For me, it has meant some time out as I have been studying music full-time at TAFE, and I might say, Loving it! <br />
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We continue to homeschool and to settle into our new home, and although life is very different to what was expected, it is still my hope that, in the end, I will emerge as a stonger person than ever before. <br />
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Well, we're working on it! <br />
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Linda.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-43367615128015693122013-04-07T21:28:00.000-07:002013-04-07T21:28:00.147-07:00Wait<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiB1-GtujevQKzqT4288nPWWMgEHK9-B3vnTpa-e0_2J-L55VrKyZTePOEA0VXIBTQ11OFDJoNYn9iZg_4NnRvVxwwAgsvyWbDU7RC4ZSvB_M3B8G8SMER5ff5jJDHs53VB41y0JVsCpo/s1600/wait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiB1-GtujevQKzqT4288nPWWMgEHK9-B3vnTpa-e0_2J-L55VrKyZTePOEA0VXIBTQ11OFDJoNYn9iZg_4NnRvVxwwAgsvyWbDU7RC4ZSvB_M3B8G8SMER5ff5jJDHs53VB41y0JVsCpo/s400/wait.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-14045951069132859602013-04-02T19:21:00.001-07:002013-04-02T19:21:19.930-07:00Speed LimitsThe speed limit outside our house is <b>50 </b>kms / hour. <br />
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Recently, however, there have been roadworks happening on the outskirts of town, so they put up a new sign, right outside our house, changing the limit:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5XNYfJrGXejd6bSPjiEyPnS8EfbhSSL1aKKws_4bTNiPAa2l4Bmjw5QV1IcvdztrlctCB8ejtKHTAcQCquQckn5SodQkZKtce1uQPBHsJP4-e2gCyv6IUm9Uwioba4kQ85u_7NOGJYE/s1600/speedsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5XNYfJrGXejd6bSPjiEyPnS8EfbhSSL1aKKws_4bTNiPAa2l4Bmjw5QV1IcvdztrlctCB8ejtKHTAcQCquQckn5SodQkZKtce1uQPBHsJP4-e2gCyv6IUm9Uwioba4kQ85u_7NOGJYE/s320/speedsign.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Yep, I'm sure that makes sense to someone!<br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-76417441420937781742013-04-02T16:55:00.000-07:002013-04-02T16:55:43.479-07:00A Writing Lesson....Do any of your writing lessons feel like this one? I know mine do!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6i3jfaZyfaxp08-le9OmYUsC57NGJms5imcIoJ7SgjMzt4WdxxqbMOHGQ-wZyE0bvvxZXbUmWchOxtPG2r-F4jn3uxy8kv_gzs08QjcbUW7bM_1-rjWrh-inZ8eExL45gWb5fVz8t7E/s1600/296871_10152090966075032_1765338178_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6i3jfaZyfaxp08-le9OmYUsC57NGJms5imcIoJ7SgjMzt4WdxxqbMOHGQ-wZyE0bvvxZXbUmWchOxtPG2r-F4jn3uxy8kv_gzs08QjcbUW7bM_1-rjWrh-inZ8eExL45gWb5fVz8t7E/s1600/296871_10152090966075032_1765338178_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-52332531070382302682013-03-28T17:20:00.003-07:002013-03-28T17:20:45.337-07:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEXzsALfcE-RuzLK1Lb9U8b9edcqg1XXJaopgHiDb_3yZBnLg-YmnBvoMYq3cLCmK1_MtsVWtES842Fu8QR3bNQfEfs27R4o5lAJwYGzJshI_Y1W8fv0Gh9wV1S6ryDmFyLdYNe_y8XY/s1600/life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEXzsALfcE-RuzLK1Lb9U8b9edcqg1XXJaopgHiDb_3yZBnLg-YmnBvoMYq3cLCmK1_MtsVWtES842Fu8QR3bNQfEfs27R4o5lAJwYGzJshI_Y1W8fv0Gh9wV1S6ryDmFyLdYNe_y8XY/s400/life.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a wonderful Good Friday!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><b><i>Linda</i></b></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-5869591509572173452013-03-27T19:58:00.000-07:002013-04-02T16:06:05.826-07:00Easter and Reconciliation<br />
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In our church, we are taught that the sacrament of penance
is ‘a sacrament instituted by Christ in which forgiveness of sins committed
after baptism is granted”.</div>
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Three things are required of a penitent in order to receive
the sacrament worthily:</div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">He
must be <b>contrite</b>—or, in other words, sorry for his sins.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">He
must <b>confess</b> those sins fully, in kind and in number.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">He
must be willing to <b>do penance</b> and <b>make amends</b> for his sins.</li>
</ol>
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Lent is a particular time for reflecting on our sins, and to
be willing to come to the Lord to confess them, and to make amends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also the time we look deep within
ourselves, question ourselves, and a time we are called to make peace with our
fellow man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And just as the above three
things are required to make peace with God, we are also called to follow the
same formula for achieving peace with each other – including being ready to
listen and make reparation for our errors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For what applies with our Heavenly Father also applies to each other:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>‘Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive
others who trespass against us’</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is,
therefore, only through us forgiving others that our Father will forgive
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we hold grudges and refuse to
forgive others, we will be held accountable;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i>‘For as you judge, so shall you be judged’</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0-OuDRe3b5DQbhd5VBtK82yNuQXHxQ9k_Jpg1vniS41YvnFwJ13aGNEKvZ9f7fc6f5q14AnmSvVtCF2Fo4PFEi9Sd5xUL20uEaWtN-miarhOLw0hk_uJKB2Rhdv2sOUfF_rPgFeEddI/s1600/trailtree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0-OuDRe3b5DQbhd5VBtK82yNuQXHxQ9k_Jpg1vniS41YvnFwJ13aGNEKvZ9f7fc6f5q14AnmSvVtCF2Fo4PFEi9Sd5xUL20uEaWtN-miarhOLw0hk_uJKB2Rhdv2sOUfF_rPgFeEddI/s320/trailtree.jpg" width="247" /></a>This Lent, our family completed a Lenten Study by Ann
Voskamp, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/02/what-lent-really-means-free-easter-devotional-book-to-make-a-jesus-easter-tree/" target="_blank">‘Trail to the Tree’</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
always, Ann writes with simplicity, and in a style that is so gentle, yet so
powerful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much of what she has
written has resonated with all of us, and as we followed the trail to the tree,
we realised that while it is true that out of death comes life, that
forgiveness and reconciliation is always possible, no matter what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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It is at these times that I am so thankful for the sacrament
of reconciliation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have the
opportunity, right now, to go to our priest and ask God for forgiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Lent, I have spent some wonderful
moments with our local priest, both in discussion and in confession.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know with confidence that God sees all, and offers us
all forgiveness, if we are truly contrite and ready to turn our lives around to
live as He asks us to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To have such a
wonderful sacrament available is truly a blessing.</div>
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This Easter, let us all work on reconciliation; with God of
course, but firstly, with each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For if we cannot live side by side in this world, what makes us think we
can do so in the next?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Easter, let
us try to live as Christ commanded, ‘To love one another’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world is so fractured, and there is so,
so much suffering and pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let us try,
at least, to bring the body of Christ – His family - together, and to walk with
each other for the Glory of God.<br />
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Have a wonderful, blessed Easter, and may peace be with you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>. </span>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-86247109377973371392013-03-23T19:06:00.002-07:002013-03-23T19:07:45.846-07:00Separating Egg Yolks from the Egg WhitesToday, we decided to make pavlovas to take along to a dinner outing. As always, when I went to separate the eggs, my 'egg separator' had mysteriously disappeared, and I thought that once again, I'd be separating them by hand, using the shells.<br />
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Not so! My 16 year old commented she'd seen a video online, using a plastic bottle. With a big grin on her face, she fetched a bottle, broke an egg into a bowl, and with one, short squeeze, sucked the yolk into the bottle, leaving the white behind! Soon, it was the new craze, and I was most glad that we had 12 eggs to separate - it was a hoot! It worked perfectly, only failing once when I accidentally broke a yolk.<br />
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Anyways, I though it may be of used to someone else, so here's the link:<br />
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<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/D6gX_wH6svc?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Have a great day, and enjoy the rest of your weekend!<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-60818821653275941342013-03-23T06:03:00.000-07:002013-03-23T06:03:09.620-07:00For Healing.....A beautiful video, passed along thanks to my friend, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank">Ann Voskamp</a>:<br />
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<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IctD9l4F-ag?feature=player_detailpage" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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May God bless your day,<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>. Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-70637200385794016602013-03-23T02:48:00.001-07:002013-03-23T02:48:21.702-07:00Tutoring - IEW Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2SISJmKqgVMpiihnqJD9cqOnuWMVATG5DA5Si1yzAcafaIkJcOd6fKl3J0ioG_uRt1IUrUV21BwuCfRbLOOpY1CUMbJNSqNM9RFL0jetm_vBWM8gM_dmpe1LYpPNCLYHFaGDxA067B4/s1600/Certified_BLUE_SMALL_sml.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2SISJmKqgVMpiihnqJD9cqOnuWMVATG5DA5Si1yzAcafaIkJcOd6fKl3J0ioG_uRt1IUrUV21BwuCfRbLOOpY1CUMbJNSqNM9RFL0jetm_vBWM8gM_dmpe1LYpPNCLYHFaGDxA067B4/s200/Certified_BLUE_SMALL_sml.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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</xml><![endif]-->A question we often ask of children is ‘what do you want to
do when you grow up’?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s one I’ve
often pondered myself – and yet, I still haven’t made up my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually, I sometimes think my own solution
may simply be to not ‘grow up’ at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yet, what to do, and where to focus my time and my energies always
remained in question. Certainly, I always loved to study, and found myself tackling several courses over the years, including a 'Certificate in Writing', and more recently, becoming a Certified Instructor with IEW.</div>
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Over the course of the past couple of years, I’ve had
different people approach me to check their writing, or to look over their
children’s essays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having used the IEW
programme with all of my children and as a Certified Instructor, I felt I
was able to offer advice, critiques and some helpful comments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each time, I began the task with some
trepidation, however, as I marked each assignment I not only felt my confidence
grow, but I discovered that it was something I truly enjoyed – in fact, I loved
it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Every now and then, I’d experience a little ‘nudge’
somewhere deep in my soul, that ‘feeling’ one gets from time to time, as if to
say that when our homeschooling journey is over, tutoring may be an
option.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, as our new life began in
NSW, so did the tutoring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year, I
am very much enjoying the start of my official ‘tutoring’ role, taking on
several students who submit their essays to me, which I mark, critique and
then return to them.</div>
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Surprisingly, I am finally experiencing what it feels like to truly
love your work!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And with ‘only’ four
left at home to homeschool, I find that I now have time to commit to this
endeavour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, I still have
those moments of doubts, where I wonder if I’m ‘good enough’ to mark someone
else’s writing, but when I sit down with the essays, I find that I can see the
strong points and the weaker ones, and find I am indeed, well equipped to offer
constructive advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been a delightful,
yet challenging, few months, and it’s been a wonderful privilege to work with
our up and coming writers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who
knows?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe one day, these young
people will be well-known authors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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I still haven’t decided what I want to do when I grow up (if
I ever do) – but tutoring, editing and marking essays is certainly an option –
for now, I’m loving it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-46170722761990638942013-03-21T06:22:00.000-07:002013-03-21T06:22:15.031-07:00And Just for Fun.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRZDS8BbumKNLN1PYDGrt76BWMRq-QEru1Dm9diDi-ku4NPmWh2fxLY36D55Z3aE3Fv1c7kOmtdMym5UswcANhUtZBv7ErK-BFg_CN7PZsVj1KSzQ8l1Ouk2CR9_DcA-bzDnlXlfJweM/s1600/kidnap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRZDS8BbumKNLN1PYDGrt76BWMRq-QEru1Dm9diDi-ku4NPmWh2fxLY36D55Z3aE3Fv1c7kOmtdMym5UswcANhUtZBv7ErK-BFg_CN7PZsVj1KSzQ8l1Ouk2CR9_DcA-bzDnlXlfJweM/s640/kidnap.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Ah, the things that tickle my funny-bone!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-44059741526346817262013-03-19T05:21:00.001-07:002013-03-19T05:21:20.916-07:00Random Moment of the Week....<span class="userContent" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Ahhh.. That moment when you're sitting quietly at the back of the theatre, watching drama practice, and your phone suddenly bellows out, for all to hear.... 'Message from the dark side you have' (Yep, in Yoda's voice).<br /><br />Everyone - actors on stage, the director, and all others in the room - stopped what they were doing and turned, with amused smilies on their faces, to look at me.<br /><br />I simply muttered 'sorry' and sank into my chair.......<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br /><br />Thanks for that, Helena - Just you wait until I manage to capture a photo of you in your gorgeous costume!</span><br />
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<span class="userContent" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>. </span><span class="userContentSecondary fcg" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: grey; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></span>Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-40204856791249240792013-03-14T06:26:00.001-07:002013-03-14T06:26:52.593-07:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcz5xdhFhj_POQIrCE5l8ygohpaEsn3UIh7gUEqSTB7mrAhyoNxd-KGGIVHOprTwQ3ECkOso1s_io2Zg8VKNPGXHtxhZcxPhrghx4hJ-9MpoLgvWUF-2EVXBU_8Yxp5nFC-biCJIkLf_A/s1600/522432_527068640641478_1928416991_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcz5xdhFhj_POQIrCE5l8ygohpaEsn3UIh7gUEqSTB7mrAhyoNxd-KGGIVHOprTwQ3ECkOso1s_io2Zg8VKNPGXHtxhZcxPhrghx4hJ-9MpoLgvWUF-2EVXBU_8Yxp5nFC-biCJIkLf_A/s400/522432_527068640641478_1928416991_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Listen, enjoy - and sing - No matter what life brings, there's always a song to fit - find it! :)<br />
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Have a Good Friday!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-58538433574855678462013-03-13T07:35:00.000-07:002013-03-13T07:35:11.109-07:00Planning and Record Keeping<br />
One question I'm often asked is 'What do you use for Planning and Record Keeping'? <br />
<br />
For many years I made up my own Record Books, which I would type up, print out, and bind. The books would contain planning pages, my timetables, a space to record each child's daily work, as well as pages in the back for recording such things as reading logs, field trips, and testing / evaluation. I developed my own Record Book over the course of about ten years, and was finally satistied that I had created a resource that suited our needs.<br />
<br />
Then, Apologia kindly sent me a free sample of a new resource in their catalogue: 'The Ultimate Homeschool Planner". Being a little stressed and short on time, I decided to try it out for our 2012 year. The result - I LOVE IT! It contains, essentially, everything I was putting together myself, along with lovely Bible verses, teaching tips and a place each week to record those 'memorable moments'. And all wonderfully put together in one, spiral-bound book! Although each week is meant to be used as 'planning pages', I simply use them to record the work completed, and have our plan for the year tucked into the front pocket. Each week has space to record the work for six children - while that would not have suited me a few years ago, with two of my children now living away from home, it now suits me perfectly!<br />
<br />
Here's the Blurb:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/home?event=AFF&p=1165187" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMDnVk5SOYoGXusFOiyKYg6dkEtSMGHwhaJpjqe6L0QSwQbXhQ-QimH5YX2Oj6rTZE8FVBM8CDeYbagSwzRzLqMl1leSoE_Na-fMo5PFaW6agcfAc1Qh9_Jq3QWPPGkiQAYZc2V3oyKE/s1600/planner.jpg" /></a><i>"Designed for the busy homeschooling mother, help bring order---and less
frustration---into your life. A user's guide will help you set
everything up; a one-year planning grid, student goal setter,
pre-planning guide, monthly planners, weekly planner, records, teaching
tips, and a high school planning guide are all provided. Yearly planning
pages provide room for vision-casting with your family priorities, a
review of the previous school year, a goal-setter for character and
academics, and timing grids. Weekly plans provide room to write in your
Bible plan, battle plan, prayers, hospitality/outreach efforts,
memorable moments, achievements, and evidences of grace. Schedule pages
may be filled in as you see fit-both the vertical and horizontal axes
are blank for you to fill in days and subjects as you prefer. Boxes
along the facing page include room for notes, supplies, and
appointments. The plastic covers include folder pockets on the inside
for handy storage. Spiral bound."</i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Ultimate Homeschool Planner, published by Apologia, is available through <a href="http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/home?event=AFF&p=1165187" target="_blank">Christian Book</a> . </div>
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I hope it saves you heaps of time and energy, and you'll find it as worthwhile as I have!</div>
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May God bless your day with smiles and happiness,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.</div>
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<br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-47357177073208628362013-03-07T21:17:00.002-08:002013-03-07T21:17:34.629-08:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlmxRueLQYn7tYVo3y4yFQ3AYIg5JzfDYornXoJbuIBmR_FHMRU044skcWQ0Zk_5Cc7RRtHv2vZz2EgjS5vnA0pwAXN7Ce-QRgllNxO7uoOs2wPTnq7LUiezUtoI4szA8qxH5R_Gl0Bs/s1600/481354_591371717557333_1388748423_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlmxRueLQYn7tYVo3y4yFQ3AYIg5JzfDYornXoJbuIBmR_FHMRU044skcWQ0Zk_5Cc7RRtHv2vZz2EgjS5vnA0pwAXN7Ce-QRgllNxO7uoOs2wPTnq7LUiezUtoI4szA8qxH5R_Gl0Bs/s400/481354_591371717557333_1388748423_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a good laugh, and have a grrrrreeeeaaat Friday!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><b><i>Linda</i></b></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-56046344462767850362013-03-03T02:14:00.000-08:002013-03-03T02:14:04.311-08:00Sweet Sixteen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week, we celebrated as our 4th daughter turned sixteen! <br />
<br />
Margaret is the most beautiful girl to have around; often while I'm running about to band practice, choir, drama group or wherever, our girl will be home, putting on dinner, making sure the household is running smoothly, putting on a load of washing or whatever else needs to be done. She does all of this, often, I'm sad to say, with very little thanks, as we rush in from one thing, eat, and then head back out the door once again. So if I've not said it lately - THANKYOU!<br />
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I'll often find Margaret sewing, cooking, or drawing on her tablet. Amazingly, she is a completely self-taught digital artist, and for the past few months, has been selling her artwork to an overseas web-site. The owner has even email me personally to commend her for her work; he is so proud and honoured to have her as a part of their team. <br />
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Margaret, we are so proud of you - I cannot even put it into words - you are indeed, a blessing from heaven, and it is an absolute honour to call you my daughter.<br />
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Happy Birthday, sweetheart!<br />
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Love<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Mum</b></i></span></span>. <br />
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<br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-81454498731241342182013-02-28T05:11:00.000-08:002013-02-28T05:11:38.254-08:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And when the floods came, and the roads were closed once again, we did indeed dance - on the highway!<br />
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And by golly gosh, we certainly enjoyed ourselves!<br />
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Have a good Friday - smile, and if you can - dance!<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span><br />
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-29455137674211996832013-02-24T23:06:00.001-08:002013-02-24T23:08:49.787-08:00Fun With Family.You would think that moving 2000 kms away from your lifelong home would also mean leaving all your family behind. Not so, it seems!<br />
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Since moving to NSW, we have managed to have a Family Christmas lunch:<br />
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A visit from Granny and Aunty Carmel, complete with the traditional 'mother and son' card game:<br />
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The winners, I'm sad to say, were Jean and Bill (next time, next time, Daniel and I will have you!):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PRZ_J30wU4RME3pE4bOtOxo2dJ-GD6nGNghlTTsQlpmkp4Qu3U2Ch-GkAfbzfVqd_-sGnCaoNucmFNBF7_39Jsjt5hl2EPK74MIieoWLResW0nYkHKVerElWBNVe6WdPXVr6NZPcZP4/s1600/grannyvisit2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PRZ_J30wU4RME3pE4bOtOxo2dJ-GD6nGNghlTTsQlpmkp4Qu3U2Ch-GkAfbzfVqd_-sGnCaoNucmFNBF7_39Jsjt5hl2EPK74MIieoWLResW0nYkHKVerElWBNVe6WdPXVr6NZPcZP4/s320/grannyvisit2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And we even had a surprise vist from my nephew, Andrew, and his family, who decided to sell up in SA, and move north as well:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4AHWpJntm80onpK_w-qGIt65yB9mDkaX1I_0NfMyHKb3SejA1wh87EBFNPCueif2l9tN2qZkf5Qt-UZDsqEjnax9JNIzO32nkNC5bo7dXgarSUPg5qVwTvyIXZ5d2wqXKpOmDZNc4jQ/s1600/andrewfamily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4AHWpJntm80onpK_w-qGIt65yB9mDkaX1I_0NfMyHKb3SejA1wh87EBFNPCueif2l9tN2qZkf5Qt-UZDsqEjnax9JNIzO32nkNC5bo7dXgarSUPg5qVwTvyIXZ5d2wqXKpOmDZNc4jQ/s320/andrewfamily.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Last Sunday, we took a day trip to Bryon Bay to once again catch up with Ida, Kylie, Sarah and Zoe for a family lunch. The visit also invovled some future planning for one serious girls' night out (just you wait for THOSE photos - they should be GOOD!):<br />
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Technically, these two lovelies are my 'nieces', however, they are well aware that calling me 'Aunty Linda' will most likely earn them a punch in the nose - given that they are only just younger than I am. :)<br />
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So it seems we are certainly 'not alone' up on the NSW north coast. Lots more family visits planned, and we look forward to catching up on a few lost years!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>. <br />
<br />Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-12795656809698974872013-02-23T18:22:00.003-08:002013-02-23T18:22:54.276-08:00Here We Go Again....And just when we kept hearing how rare it was to have four floods in four years........<br />
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How about two in a month?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_CFzV1C1ZtaspgHQacs_gsTOliX4O5OSsoIibdex090hhauUs9KakL-n79LVbJbzes2N0nKwv8cKpE50Xt5umyUxA63dprNNxUMJc-Dka5w_f342RZjKgKxmilN6I8fDbC7PCbFm1Fw/s1600/flood+Feb+23+2013+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_CFzV1C1ZtaspgHQacs_gsTOliX4O5OSsoIibdex090hhauUs9KakL-n79LVbJbzes2N0nKwv8cKpE50Xt5umyUxA63dprNNxUMJc-Dka5w_f342RZjKgKxmilN6I8fDbC7PCbFm1Fw/s320/flood+Feb+23+2013+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The first one show our little tree, which usually sits on the egde of the river bank, about to go under completely.<br />
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The second shows our neighbours trees - now completely submerged as well. <br />
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The river peaked this morning at 5 metres - 1 metre short of the top of the levee - so, all is good as far as that goes.<br />
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Sure is a whole lot of water, though - again!<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-18203795682778581742013-02-21T20:28:00.000-08:002013-02-21T20:28:04.308-08:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Z8zPjbXgT4RIvvwjphJcEjOs0RmQ_pz2SX5V88WISwAOAHypiBLTRFzD5s8sGi2iOfXcK1P6-HmkxMB5fnVLel6itrIc5T_LEG3vlfCx_oJqOXh2lEtp0oAR4tIHqT6HasKshpAyRXw/s1600/33973_527634423946051_1508885982_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Z8zPjbXgT4RIvvwjphJcEjOs0RmQ_pz2SX5V88WISwAOAHypiBLTRFzD5s8sGi2iOfXcK1P6-HmkxMB5fnVLel6itrIc5T_LEG3vlfCx_oJqOXh2lEtp0oAR4tIHqT6HasKshpAyRXw/s400/33973_527634423946051_1508885982_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a good Friday!<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Linda</i></b></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-26295924247837221282013-02-16T06:09:00.000-08:002013-02-16T06:09:05.353-08:00Music and Drama - Again! :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQF9-5gir58xbm4ap3RrdX80_Psb7UaPB7ooPGCK-itOz1tM-RfDnE2ENhzvEWBdCGxx0uFkY69MowmKFfgL262TJRpoyL31mAwP3j19tFZLjAzXDdP1DRg_QS1wKgoFGCAkW2fElh4wM/s1600/graftontafe.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQF9-5gir58xbm4ap3RrdX80_Psb7UaPB7ooPGCK-itOz1tM-RfDnE2ENhzvEWBdCGxx0uFkY69MowmKFfgL262TJRpoyL31mAwP3j19tFZLjAzXDdP1DRg_QS1wKgoFGCAkW2fElh4wM/s320/graftontafe.jpg" width="320" /></a>Last week saw our 18 and 17 year olds head off into the 'big wide world' as they began their lives as students at the local TAFE.<br />
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Daniel, 18, is completing a Certificate IV in Sound Production, and Helena, 17, will be studying Certificate IV in Music. We rocked up for the orientation day, handed over the cash, and they were ready to go.<br />
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Their first week has been full of wonderful, exciting possibilities, including several people offering to record Helena as she plays the pieces that they have composed. And Daniel is very much enjoying learning about the physics of sound waves and how to use the sound boards.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPc6gFunMEgtauNbkLWgGFRydr8aBocM7kFkaN36RbKfIPYBKNNVFa4jFQJt9wDdmWE-eiS_YydGsewMduAkyUoSJsZVnqwl7O7KDlLz9eV11HSaz4mPJaXQvsm8KCE1cvJaHMQYbMKo/s1600/graftoncon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPc6gFunMEgtauNbkLWgGFRydr8aBocM7kFkaN36RbKfIPYBKNNVFa4jFQJt9wDdmWE-eiS_YydGsewMduAkyUoSJsZVnqwl7O7KDlLz9eV11HSaz4mPJaXQvsm8KCE1cvJaHMQYbMKo/s320/graftoncon.jpg" width="320" /></a>We have also started back at the <a href="http://www.cvcon.com.au/main.html" target="_blank">conservatorium</a>, with four of us enrolled for private lessons as well as signing up for several ensembles and bands. The Con tells us we win the 'Frequent Flyer Points' for attending the highest number of groups - typical - we do tend to do that!<br />
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The Conservatorium here is absolutely marvellous. I can't tell you what a delight it is to walk in, hearing music pouring out of the rooms. They have the most wonderful, welcoming staff, and fantastic teachers. We are indeed very blessed to have found them, and look forward to all they have to offer. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAPc6gFunMEgtauNbkLWgGFRydr8aBocM7kFkaN36RbKfIPYBKNNVFa4jFQJt9wDdmWE-eiS_YydGsewMduAkyUoSJsZVnqwl7O7KDlLz9eV11HSaz4mPJaXQvsm8KCE1cvJaHMQYbMKo/s1600/graftoncon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXofFqBgq-C4M9B-PvZzW85W-2-kxejzWZTTF7UC2GmGwT7DaD00DgJVxavzhEpM3eRw3EjDajdE69_R1btyfpb7U0n5ojpoVZPKTrGnDx-4cpZqjLxZ0wfzIAvhJ5M8qkz9bjxs9yUjs/s1600/sing+australia+burra.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXofFqBgq-C4M9B-PvZzW85W-2-kxejzWZTTF7UC2GmGwT7DaD00DgJVxavzhEpM3eRw3EjDajdE69_R1btyfpb7U0n5ojpoVZPKTrGnDx-4cpZqjLxZ0wfzIAvhJ5M8qkz9bjxs9yUjs/s320/sing+australia+burra.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sing Australia - Our SA Group (We miss you!)</td></tr>
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So what else? We began back with <a href="http://www.singaustralia.com.au/" target="_blank">Sing Australia,</a> and each week, attend to belt out lots of our favourite tunes. They have a most marvellous repertoire, and if there's a group near you, I'd highly recommend that you check them out - you do not have to be a great singer - in fact, you don't have to have any abilities at all - it's all about having fun!</div>
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The Grafton group certainly lives up to this reputation, and we're enjoying being a part of the group. The only 'downside' is that it may clash with rehearsal times in our 'latest' activity, the drama group. And speaking of drama, the next thing on our 'list' was the audition evening.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-3qR2CfkUWfpilznJT-f2x_O_tLHAhAG6EBHSdOMIA4RFUqyUHhfXe6Frm3LGpoIbhfDPcfO8Krm6DQdcT5umSspT1lQP2wcume21IDLYPHSAiluwhIae2NpvNk5QTt5hxAhGiPQWWA/s1600/criterion.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-3qR2CfkUWfpilznJT-f2x_O_tLHAhAG6EBHSdOMIA4RFUqyUHhfXe6Frm3LGpoIbhfDPcfO8Krm6DQdcT5umSspT1lQP2wcume21IDLYPHSAiluwhIae2NpvNk5QTt5hxAhGiPQWWA/s200/criterion.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.criteriontheatre.org.au/" target="_blank">The Criterion Theatre</a> held their first auditions for the year - for 'Rockin' Robin' - a musical, and shall we say..... 'entertaining' version of Robin Hood. Several of us auditioned for speaking parts, while others were keen to help out behind the scenes with sets, costumes, etc. It was a little nerve-wracking for some, but naturally, others felt right at home on the stage! I must admit to having one of those 'proud mummy moments' when my children stood up with total confidence and happily rattled off their chosen songs as well as reading through the script with confidence and enthusiasm. And then, we were done. We headed off home with the group saying they would let us know.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZH-sVqD3mI9WFodICpCrctUWyYPNkUkk4lKl_zLn5xvV75ZEM8T3RGEd0xmRkQdUQT62n7MSswHOBH1w4bHcJmfY2hsI7eJ4EDPZWwKW-i0EsqbSat8fVQWVoJkzocVF_l4QY6xXWAQ/s1600/ROCKIN+ROBIN+LOGO.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZH-sVqD3mI9WFodICpCrctUWyYPNkUkk4lKl_zLn5xvV75ZEM8T3RGEd0xmRkQdUQT62n7MSswHOBH1w4bHcJmfY2hsI7eJ4EDPZWwKW-i0EsqbSat8fVQWVoJkzocVF_l4QY6xXWAQ/s1600/ROCKIN+ROBIN+LOGO.jpg" /></a>Fast forward a few days..... and yep, we have our parts! Several of us did score a major speaking role, including myself, who, for whatever reason, was given the part of the 'magic mirror'. Why they thought I'd be good in that role I'm not sure, but I get the honor of sticking my head through a prop to become the mirror, and will be rolled about on stage, rattling off funny lines like, 'Yeh, right', 'Wow! Check it out', and 'I am not cracked!'. While dear hubby, who is playing the part of the sorcerer, tells me to 'shut up' - twice! <br />
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Some of the children were also offered speaking parts, and some will have a stack of lines to learn. And of course, we all will be joining in with the chorus as they rattle off some great old songs like 'Rockin' Robin', 'Johnnie B Goode' and 'Rock Around the Clock'. <br />
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Yep, it's going to be a fun, fun, year.......<br />
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May God bless your day!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-51258927377704145692013-02-14T14:29:00.003-08:002013-02-14T14:29:49.239-08:00Friday's Encouraging Expressions.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0_xB49XrFAdfhaDV3AkvRJZK3hSgiDJrrN9zsk_0b71WMcVa-xnmexAbq1o5uIG2GHsoK2tmeP0GuHpuqoiJXSfBudsnj7RUECl__taFDkTFoyj3ubAdQ_8be-oUvteBNQVvoJOo7JQ/s1600/540595_488613154507963_2091510510_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY0_xB49XrFAdfhaDV3AkvRJZK3hSgiDJrrN9zsk_0b71WMcVa-xnmexAbq1o5uIG2GHsoK2tmeP0GuHpuqoiJXSfBudsnj7RUECl__taFDkTFoyj3ubAdQ_8be-oUvteBNQVvoJOo7JQ/s400/540595_488613154507963_2091510510_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a Good Friday!</div>
<br /><b><i><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;">Linda</span></i></b>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-68990099474844592542013-02-13T22:35:00.000-08:002013-02-13T22:35:43.284-08:00Happy Valentine's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With Love, Peace, and Chicken Grease!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7399912531378592518.post-61709836421362489792013-02-13T02:25:00.000-08:002013-02-13T02:25:05.438-08:00A Slight Change of Plans – Excellence in Writing<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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As you may have seen on my previous post, this year I had
planned to use IEW’s ‘Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons’ with my three
youngest girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve had a change of
plans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last year, the girls completed
<a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Student-Writing-Intensive.php" target="_blank">SWI (Student Writing Intensive) Level A</a>, but unfortunately, with travelling,
moving, the fire, and all the other ‘minor’ things we went through, I wasn’t
exactly able to supervise as well as I’d like, so a few things were… shall we
say….<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>not exactly completed to their
fullest potential.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJ96evyXlFvfMyAJOXiNO6uWKJfPzT3m8G9ZufxJTohIbNMY_gDj_jnYzPWnVKQXzuMXKQ-dXatv1pCMCt7l3DD2eWE4PdWAWvIcNJcptuMauNAdJeU16I1sgv6OoMD2Gk9BPX5Gv3GE/s1600/P1120996.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJ96evyXlFvfMyAJOXiNO6uWKJfPzT3m8G9ZufxJTohIbNMY_gDj_jnYzPWnVKQXzuMXKQ-dXatv1pCMCt7l3DD2eWE4PdWAWvIcNJcptuMauNAdJeU16I1sgv6OoMD2Gk9BPX5Gv3GE/s320/P1120996.JPG" width="320" /></a>So, instead of moving onto a theme-based book, we’ve decided
this year to begin with <a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Student-Writing-Intensive.php" target="_blank">SWI B,</a> which will cover the basics again, but at a
higher level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another advantage with
using <a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Student-Writing-Intensive.php" target="_blank">SWI B</a> is that the girls will watch Andrew himself on the DVDs, which as
many of you will appreciate, is always a hit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We organised the new folders and pulled our DVDs from<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the depths of the yet-to-be-unpacked boxes,
and soon we were ready to begin.<br />
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Last Wednesday was ‘the day’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After presenting the girls with their new folders, we settled
down in front of the television for their first session.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As always, there were smiles and chuckles as
Andrew ‘did his thing’ and taught them all about key word outlines and how to
re-write a paragraph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The source text
was a paragraph on ‘Sea Wasps’, which are found in the oceans off the coast of
Australia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m always very appreciative
of this particular lesson; it’s lovely to begin the year with some Australian
content, and to know that Australia has some of the coolest and most deadly
creatures in the world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwyoBiNqwaO13PS8HlnbTsjFIX3td9IPWXM1nIs33Mbvbjd0iIrCTN6srDeppOrK8MuXZ2iCtwNqqlOrtBVttbkO5qVOTUpm8Z6qbEE82aLeDo2T-7aXo6Fv_eIAOxwVs67Og7KGcKgM/s1600/P1130002.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwyoBiNqwaO13PS8HlnbTsjFIX3td9IPWXM1nIs33Mbvbjd0iIrCTN6srDeppOrK8MuXZ2iCtwNqqlOrtBVttbkO5qVOTUpm8Z6qbEE82aLeDo2T-7aXo6Fv_eIAOxwVs67Og7KGcKgM/s320/P1130002.JPG" width="320" /></a>As is typically the case, we soon found that we ‘were not
alone’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s something special about
Andrew Pudewa, and he manages to grab the attention of whoever is about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though our Daniel has finished his
homeschooling, once he saw what we were watching, he happily settled himself of
the couch to enjoy the lesson as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s wonderful to have such a programme; one that the older children can
simply watch and enjoy, and yet, they are therefore having a review lessons
themselves.</div>
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Once the DVD reached a certain point, it was time to press
‘stop’ and have the girls re-write their paragraph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was pleased to discover that they tackled the task easily, and
remembered several things from the lessons of last year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was good to know they had retained some
information, despite my failings!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
next day involved writing up another paragraph before moving on to the next
section of the DVD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although the course
was originally an intensive, 4-day presentation, IEW now offer lesson plans for
15-30 weeks, meaning we can take our time and allow plenty of opportunities for
practicing the various skills learned along the way.</div>
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It’s wonderful again to be working through <a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Student-Writing-Intensive.php" target="_blank">SWI B</a> – I think
this is my favourite one of the series.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next year, we’ll use the <a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Student-Intensive-Continuation-Course.php" target="_blank">Continuation Course</a>, but we will probably use
<a href="http://www.adnilpress.com.au/Freedomship-Education.html" target="_blank">Speech Boot Camp</a> first – another one of my favourites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now though, I’m looking forward to using
these DVDs again and enjoying the giggles as Andrew takes the girls through
their lessons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re off to a good
start – just the thing to keep a busy homeschooling mum happy!</div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Linda</b></i></span></span>.</div>
Lindahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15821198537944340345noreply@blogger.com2