Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Renaissance and Reformation - Unit Celebration

We had a very special unit celebration a couple weeks ago.... special because my parents and both my sisters were able to attend, as well as dear friends who are like family! As our unit celebrations go, it was a bit lame in the costume department (it really was), but again, we DID it (isn't that the main point?), and it was a great excuse to have some wonderful fellowship! ;-)

This was for Tapestry Year 2, Unit 2, the renaissance, reformation, and Elizabethan England. First up we were visited by Christopher Columbus, who told us about being the first explorer to sail across the Atlantic and return to tell about it! After he forged the way many others followed and even surpassed him, but he has the distinction of being the one to prove it could be done, as well as the distinction of "discovering" America!


Then we had the privilege of hearing from Leonardo da Vinci himself! He told us about some of his inventions, and a couple of his paintings which later became famous. He remained curious about the world and how things worked up until his death, and tinkered with so many different ideas. He is perhaps the true archetype of a "renaissance man."


Next it was William Tyndale's turn. Tyndale is responsible for translating the Bible into English so the common people of England could read God's Word for themselves. For this he was mercilessly hunted down and eventually executed, but as he began to burn at the stake he cried out, "Open the King of England's eyes! Open the King of England's eyes!" And God answered his plea ~ shortly after his death King Henry VIII (of six wives' fame) placed a Bible in every English speaking church! What an incredible testimony of faithfulness and courage this man had.


We then heard from a young William Shakespeare, who told us about his life in Stratford-upon-Avon and his move to London when he was in his early 20's. We learned about his playwriting, his involvement with The Globe theatre, and the fact that he also acted in many of his plays! (unusual for the time) He was perhaps Queen Elizabeth's favorite playwright, and she often attended his plays.


Last but not least we once again heard from the reporter for the Christian Historical News, as she reported on the life and times of Queen Elizabeth. She gave a thorough and excellent report on this long reigning and beloved queen!


As per usual, we displayed some of the many books we used during this past unit:


We read some really fun books for literature during this unit, and added to them with other books from the library. Such a rich period of world history!


We also displayed the model of da Vinci's flying machine, which we had made earlier.


Then we snacked on foods that would have been common in Queen Elizabeth's day: freshly baked bread with honey butter, oranges, and dates. Many vegetables were considered poisonous in those days, but they did eat a variety of fruit.


Later we sang around the piano, accompanied by the guitar. Did you know that Queen Elizabeth herself was quite musical?


Feasting and merriment was had by all, the old, the medium, and the young!











Such a blessing to share the richness of our history studies with our beloved family and friends!

Monday, February 27, 2012

Day at the Museum

You've heard of "Night at the Museum"? Well, we went during the day, and while no single item seemed to come alive, history certainly came alive for us!



Boys never outgrow their fascination with big machines.


Me and my mother. How I love this woman!


My daughter joined us ~ how I love both these women!


And how I love this man! So fun to see my dad interacting with my children. I love multiple generations being together.


My parents with a car from the 50's ~ the time in which they fell in love!


Playing Texaco station attendant. This was a super fun hands on area that all of my boys LOVED, from the seven year old to the twelve year old.





Ordering soda at an old fashioned diner.



A memorable day at the museum!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Father Daughter Dance

It's February, which means time for the annual homeschool father-daughter dance. This year was even more special because our daughter had her grandparents and aunts here at the same time! And for the first time our daughter wanted to not wear just nice church clothes, but a "real" party dress. She, myself, my mom, and my two sisters all went dress shopping, and what 14 year old girl doesn't love to go dress shopping with her mom, grandma, and two aunts??!!??!! I give my daughter lots of credit for being extremely patient and flexible while shopping. And my mom and sisters were pretty patient and flexible too! :-)

Here is the dress we picked out. I was pleasantly surprised to find several options that could have worked, modesty wise.


After choosing the dress we had to find the right shoes, just the right little "over jacket", and of course, the right nylons!

We came home and had such fun getting her ready for the dance. My sister Gayle, who has always been the family hairdresser, worked on her hair, while my sister Debbie did her toenails. She would be wearing high heels for the first time, and they were open-toed, so of course the toenails had to be done!




When our daughter was all ready, daddy came in for the big "reveal". It was a special moment! She looked so grown up and beautiful!


He carefully fastened her necklace, and then she was completely ready.




Here's a shot with the little jacket on.


And just to prove that I was there too......


It was super fun to share this special occasion with my extended family!

(note to myself for posterity: first party dress, first high heels, first make up)

Monday, February 20, 2012

Family Time!

We've been having a fabulous time together with my parents and sisters! Just soaking up every minute together, having long talks, deep belly laughter, some tears, good food, and good sleep. A wonderful combination!

Girls lunch out:


Me and my sisters.


Grandpa having special time with Little Man.


My sisters both leave tomorrow. :-( But my parents will be here for one more week!!! :-)

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Happiness Is......


My parents and both my sisters flying across the country to surprise me for my birthday!

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Happy Birthday...

to my dear friend votemom!

If I can be as hip as you when *I* turn 50, I will be very happy! ;-)