Hanging By a Thread

Where to Begin: Tips for Homeschooling Your Child Part 2

I recently wrote a piece for the Ordway Education blog and in thinking about my teaching style, I came up with this: I think I'd call it weaving. I take various strings and pull them together and weave together history, science, literature, culture, art, music, theater, current events and more to make a beautiful tapestry of knowledge. This is how our world takes shape and how we can make sense of the past and present and work toward a better future. In my opinion, this is how people, of all ages, really learn, but most importantly, it works for us.

Having said that, my style is not right for everyone. Again, each family must figure out what style of learning and type of curriculum is best for them. I am an intense and passionate person and serious about learning because I love to learn, but I am not very structured and am pretty laid back when it comes to our schedule.

You could talk to 10 homeschooling families and get 10 different takes on how to learn and what to teach and when to teach it. Again, sit down and do some soul searching and some research.

In Part 1, I listed the 4 questions people have asked me and what I see people asking online: 1. Where do I start? 2. What do I have to teach? 3. Where do you get your curriculum/What do you recommend? 4. How much time does it take each day? See Part 1 for my take on the first two questions.

        3. Where do I get curriculum? What do I recommend?

As I stated before, I really have a hodgepodge of materials from many different sources. We LOVE books. Consequently, we have quite a few sources to pull from when studying a particular subject. I find lots of great books at Half Price Books (and homeschool teachers can get the teacher discount). We use the internet to look up information and find resources and opportunities for further learning. I have bought some grammar and spelling and cursive workbooks from christianbook.com (Disclaimer – not all of their homeschool curriculum is religious based. In fact, I do not ever buy religious based curriculum. We are Christian and do study scripture, but I do not like religious based school materials…EVER. However, you can carefully search their website and find some good deals on basics like math, grammar and spelling.) Additionally, Amazon has many homeschooling materials. And there is Heppner's Legacy Homeschool Resources store up in Elk River. I hear good things, but I have never been there.

I will say that I do like the Everything You Need to Ace (Science, English, Math, History) in One Big Fat Notebook series, as an overview or reference point for the boys. We have found that TeachingTextbooks.com works well for us for math. Typing.com is free and a good typing curriculum. The MENSA reading list by grades is a nice resource. I follow all kinds of pages on Facebook from NASA to The Smithsonian Institute to The Spy Museum to Minnesota Historical Society to National Parks to National Geographic to Politico to The Atlantic to Washington Post to Minneapolis Institute of Art to The Museum of Russian Art to the Minnesota Science Museum and much more. We often look to current events as a starting point for research, study, projects, etc. and information on these pages is helpful. Additionally, we are liking the Outschool class options to supplement our studies and we are fans of the local Ex Ed Homeschool classes taught by 2 homeschool moms.

I recommend nothing specifically to you because again, you must figure out what your family goals are and what you want to study and how you want to study it. It can be overwhelming. So, just stick to your goals and don't go overboard.

        4. How much time does it take each day?

Homeschooling can take just a few hours a day to 4 or 5 hours a day or so. If you choose an online option, your kids will be tied to that school's schedule and curriculum and lesson plans. If your kids are just starting elementary school, it won't take as much time (play is still really important at this stage) as if say your kid is starting 9^th grade. Some people get up with the sun and are finished before lunch time. Others (us) sleep in and start in around noon and finish by 4 or 5. I know of some families who do their assignments/study during the evening or on weekends because of the parents' work schedules/ custody schedules. Any of this is fine. Again, it's up to you….have you gotten that part yet?

I think the key is lessons in increments of 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the ages of your kids, with lots of 10 to 15 minute breaks in between. We have outside activity breaks, reading breaks, eating breaks and puzzle/game breaks throughout our day.

I now have a 6^th grader and a 9^th grader. Each year, they are able to do more independent work with little or no help from me. I assign them grammar/spelling, math and typing work to complete on their own. Together, we study history, science, literature, art, current events, government/politics, scripture and anything else that comes up. They do read independently each day, and I read aloud to them too. Yes, even at this age, I read aloud to them. We all enjoy it and it allows us to weave in discussions of the time period, history, culture, etc. I choose the classics that we read together, and they choose what they read on their own.

If you work outside of the home full-time, part-time or not at all, you can homeschool your kids. YOU REALLY CAN! If you work outside of the home, you may have to get creative with your schedule – either work or school schedules. I do legal editing contract work at night and homeschool during the day. You can make it work, if you choose to do this.

Based on Minnesota law, at the end of your school year, you must have each child tested, but you can choose the test and you alone get the test results. It is not something we sweat over or prepare for. It's easy and not too expensive, and not a burdensome requirement.

Once you've decided to homeschool your kids, even if it's just for this year, check out the Minnesota Homeschoolers' Alliance website for the forms and laws and information you need to get started.

To conclude, you, too, can homeschool your kids, even if it's just this one year. Whether you choose an intense course of education or choose to read lots of books, do some Outschool online learning, teach math in the kitchen while teaching baking basics, watch lots of documentaries and visit museums virtually or some course of study somewhere in the in the middle, it is all doable and totally OK. You and your kids have an wonderful opportunity in front of you. It's all about perspective…

Over and out…

Anna

Where to Begin: Tips for Homeschooling Your Child Part 1

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we have nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way – in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only."

    ~ From A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

Isn't that the most magnificent first sentence of a book! While Dickens was referring to two cities, Paris and London, during the French Revolution, it turns out this sentence can be applied to many time periods and circumstances. I happen to think it's a good summation of where we are in 2020.

The pandemic has caused fear, heartbreak, anxiety and uncertainty for all, truly. However, for many, it is much worse, with food, shelter and employment insecurities, safety concerns, and firsthand loss. For others, it has become a time of working from home, spending more time at home with family playing games, watching movies, putting together puzzles, working on home improvements, reading lots of books, tending to the yard and garden, and generally enjoying the slowed and simplified life imposed by isolation and shut-downs. If you belong to this latter group, as I do, please know you are privileged, and count your blessings.

At this time, in the middle of summer, many parents are contemplating whether to send their kids back to public/private schools in the fall and what that will look like for their family. Some parents are not happy with distance learning, some are worried about in-person classrooms, others are wondering what it might be like to homeschool their kids for a year or more, after having them out of school distance learning for 3 months of the last school year.

I have had several friends ask me directly and read numerous posts on the MN Homeschool Facebook pages regarding homeschooling for this upcoming school year. Their questions are basically:

1. Where do I start?

2. What do I have to teach?

3. Where do you get your curriculum/What do you recommend?

4. How much time does it take each day?

So, I decided I would answer these questions and share with you my opinion on the matter. It's important to note that I did say MY OPINION. You can take it or leave it. After five years homeschooling my kids after four years of public and private schools, I think I have a perspective that could be helpful to those weighing this decision.

1. Where do I start?

It's quite easy to officially begin. You simply fill out the very short Intention to Homeschool form and send it to your school district's Superintendent. However, it is the planning and mental commitment that will take more time and energy. If you are in a state other than Minnesota, please start by looking up your state's homeschooling requirements.

First of all, you must consider what your goals are for your family. Homeschool, especially if it will be done for just one "pandemic" year can be a replica of what your child would receive from public school, a mix and match of basic curriculum, including math, reading, grammar/spelling and whatever else you choose to study, a very relaxed reading, play, home skills based education, tailored to your kids' ages and interests, an online school that is very hands-off for the parents or something entirely different. The point is it is up to you and your kids what and how and when you study.

Each family has a different set of reasons for deciding to homeschool. I do realize that this year is different though and many who would normally have never considered it are pondering it now.

I started homeschooling my two boys five years ago because my kids are dyslexic and were not getting what they needed from their public school and the amazing private school was too expensive for our kids to continue there. It worked out well for us, and now my dyslexic kids love reading and both read well above their grade levels and have for several years now. We continue to homeschool because we came to love the flexibility it gave us to travel, go on lots of hands-on field trips and choose how and what we study. I want my kids to really love learning. Honestly, there are days that we all question why we are doing this and there are subjects (math) that we all hate, but most days we love our set up.

I I suggest you sit down and outline what you and your kids hope to gain through this unusual, but really could be awesome, opportunity to educate and spend a lot of quality time together.

I will say that if your kid is in high school, and you truly mean to homeschool for only this coming year, I recommend calling the guidance counselor at their school and talking to them about what your kid should study for this year. This way your child can seamlessly go back to public/private school. How and where and when your kid studies the recommended or necessary classes is still up to you. Just create a transcript for your child and keep track of what they are studying.

2. What do I have to teach?

Minnesota law is not specific to how, when, why, or to what extent you teach subjects. It simply says that homeschool education must cover reading, writing, literature, fine arts, math, science, history, geography, health and physical education. Many homeschooling families could easily say these topics are covered on a daily basis.

We start with the basics each year: math and grammar/spelling/reading. I have switched curriculums several times over the years and usually use several materials at once. Then, we discuss what we want to focus on for history, science & literature. I don't buy curriculum for these subjects. I buy books and do research for online activities, lessons, documentaries, field trips, online classes, etc. I toss in typing, art (studying artists, visiting museums, making our own art, etc), PE (any physical activities we choose: nature walks, skiing, snowshoeing, archery, shooting hoops in the driveway, dancing, etc.) and some extracurricular activities (which are limited this year, of course).

I'll answer the last two questions in Part 2 to be posted right after this one. I tend to get a little long winded.

Here are a couple of "pro" tips:

• I write out a lesson plan for the week on Sunday night. Really each week can be and often is a little different based on our schedule and what we are studying. I have picked up $3 lesson plan books at Target for the past several years, and they work just fine.
• Check out Homeschool Adventures website for all kinds of classes, activities, field trips. It is a wonderful resource for getting out and exploring and learning, even if much of it will be virtual this year.
• Ordway Education offers amazing programming for an equally amazing cost. Again, I'm not sure what that will look like this year with no programming until spring, but check out their website for past performances and educational material.
• Believe in yourself, learn as you go, trust your kids and your gut and if you are doing this for just one year, you will not ruin your kids' academic progress/future even if you do almost nothing….although I do not suggest you do nothing. I recommend that you embrace this opportunity to spend some amazing time learning with your kids.

Check out Part 2 for answers to Questions 3 and 4.

Over and out…

Anna

South Dakota: Black Hills and Badlands {Untamed Wilderness, Spectacular Vistas and Amusing Tourist Traps}

There is something about driving through great expanses of wilderness that puts joy in the heart, renews the soul and makes one feel fully alive. One should take just such a trip on a regular basis.

Recently, the boys and I were reminiscing about our trip to the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota last May. It was an Amazing, Beautiful, Educational, Fascinating trip! Even my ever pessimistic 11 year-old agreed it was one of his all-time favorite trips! Wow! That's really something coming from him.

I think this trip is so amazing because there is something for everyone whether the "something" you're looking for is nature, science, history, quirky tourist traps or just good old fashioned fun on a family road trip.

I've been to this area of South Dakota twice, both times it was the weekend before Memorial Day weekend. The first time was pre-kids, way back in 2002. The second time was with kids, ages 8 and 10, in 2017.

The reason we have gone on the weekend before Memorial Day Weekend is that the prices are significantly lower on activities and lodging. The downside of this is that some restaurants and attractions are not yet open for the summer season and a chilly cold front can blow through, but we have not found this to be too problematic.

As per our usual, we packed in a lot of fun and driving and learning and exploring in a few long days! We left home on a Friday evening (staying that night with a friend in Sioux City, IA, to shorten our drive on Saturday morning) and arrived home on a Tuesday evening. Though we could have filled another week with activities and drives, four days was a good start at this gorgeous and diverse part of the country.

Just as in 2002, we stayed at the Holy Smokes Resort; a small group of tidy cabins on a hillside in a copse of thick pine trees just outside of Keystone. The cabins are perfectly situated for easy access to Keystone for activities and meals and just 15 minutes from Mount Rushmore and not far from Custer State Park or Rapid City either. The cabins are equipped with just a small fridge and microwave, but we brought our electric kettle, French Press and toaster and managed just fine, making breakfasts and some lunches there.

The boys and I tried to whittle down our list of must-dos when exploring this area to a Top 5 List. The easy part was that we all agreed on our favorite things. The hard part was that there were a whole lot more than five favorite things. So, we created our list of Top 5 Areas to explore with a list within each area.

1. Mount Rushmore National Monument (of course)
   1. Monument of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln: The monument itself is truly awe-inspiring to observe. There are a number of angles to view these massive visages as one traverses the grounds below.
   2. Presidential Trail: Do walk the various paths and wooden stairs down and around the mount. It's beautiful and serene. And each vantage point will give you different perspective of this giant undertaking of creating these huge likenesses.
      
      
   3. Museums: There are two museums onsite. One is the Sculptor's Studio and the other is the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center. The information presented at both of these is quite interesting and enlightening explaining the how, why, when, where and who of the whole process. Also, there is a Junior Ranger program here. So, if your child is interested (we love this program), grab your Jr. Ranger booklet from a Park Ranger as soon as you get there so that your kid can earn his or her Jr. Ranger badge from this National Park Site. There are questions and activities for every part of this site.
   4. Ice Cream: Do stop in at the ice cream parlor on site for a taste of Thomas Jefferson's vanilla ice cream. Apparently, they are using his original recipe for this ice cream.
   5. Note: There is a fee for this National Park Site. If you are visiting the Badlands too or other National Park Sites requiring fees, you might consider purchasing an America the Beautiful annual park pass for $80 (not all National Park Sites have fees, but some do). Additional parking fees are also charged here. We got there a few minutes after the park opened and stayed between 3 and 4 hours, including souvenir shopping and getting ice cream. It was significantly busier when we were leaving than when we arrived.
      
2. Badlands (otherworldly)
   1. Minuteman Missile National Historic Site: This is a relatively new National Park Site. There is a museum and a tour of the actual missile site (now de-commissioned). You MUST make a reservation for the tour as soon as you start planning this trip. It is very inexpensive and SO worth it. The tour groups are quite small and fill up quickly. The Museum is free and also very informative and fascinating. We did the tour and then visited the museum and found it to be very helpful to have just come from the tour. There is a Jr. Ranger badge to be earned here too.
      
   2. Prairie Dog Feeding: This is a HUGE hit with all four of us. It's just a simple and inexpensive experience, but it was just lots of fun and right on our way. When you leave the Minuteman Missile Site take SD 20 south and you'll find The Ranch Store and Prairie Dog Field. You can't miss it…just look for the giant prairie dog statue on your right. You can buy a bag of peanuts in the store and then go feed the prairie dogs. They are so cute and will come right up to you and take the peanuts out of your hands. Keep driving south of SD 240 and you'll drive right into the Badlands National Park.
   3. Drive through the Badlands: You can drive right through, but I suggest you stop and pull off for views and short treks on boardwalks and trails as often as you can. Until you have seen the Badlands with your own eyes, you cannot imagine this otherworldly land formed by water erosion thousands of years ago. It is amazingly beautiful and awe-inspiring. Do be sure to take water with you on any treks through this area. It's a short drive through, but there are MANY places to stop and gaze at the interesting formations, fantastic colors and gorgeous vistas. Take your time!
   4. Ben Reifel Visitor Center (in the Badlands): This is a great place to stop, get some information, pick up a Jr. Ranger Booklet (the kids can work on it now and return on the way back home for the badge or even send it in once home and still collect the badge) and fill up your water bottles.
   5. Wall Drug Store: For yummy, warm donuts, nickel coffee, free ice cold water, tons of souvenirs, fun photo ops and a super cool and historic tourist trap keep driving on SD 240 for the long way through the Badlands (Believe me, the views alone are worth this drive. We even stopped two huge rams hanging out right next to the road on this leg of the journey.) It's worth a stop for the fun and kitschy complete tourist trap. There is a lot of history here, cheap eats and coffee, any kind of souvenir you can imagine and a number of wooden cut-out photo props representing all the sites in South Dakota. The boys loved it.
      
3. Keystone
   1. Big Thunder Mine Tour and Panning for Gold: I really thought this would probably be a tourist trap, but the kids really wanted to do this and I added it to our schedule. I was wrong. This was an awesome stop! I found a great deal on Groupon for a tour for 4, plus panning for gold for 2. The tour guide was terrific, involving the kids with questions and discussions. We learned a lot about the mine, the history of Keystone and more. At the end of the tour she taught us how to pan for gold. The boys each got a little bottle and everyone is guaranteed at least a few specs of gold. Our tour guide was very helpful, making sure we were spotting the gold and garnets in our pans. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed this stop in Keystone.
      
   2. Dahl's Chainsaw Art: You'll find this gem on Iron Mountain Road in Keystone (if you drive through Keystone, you can't miss it). It was a quick, fun stop. The boys enjoyed it immensely. We took lots of silly pictures here. There are beautiful, odd, funny and amazing hunks of wood art here. You can even climb up on a number of pieces here for a fun picture (donation boxes are available, but not required)
      
   3. Ruby House Restaurant: This old-fashioned, home-cookin' restaurant is a throw-back to nice restaurants I recall from my childhood. The servers were very friendly (even when we walked in 15 minutes before closing time). The food was so-so in my opinion, but the servers and rich, old décor and our hunger made up for what was lacking in the food (think bottled salad dressing, instant mashed potatoes, iceberg lettuce – nothing terrible, but nothing amazing either). The boys loved it, and they wanted to be sure I was including it here.
      
4. Hot Springs: This area is about an hour drive south of Keystone. I'm so glad we included these activities in our trip.
   1. Wind Cave National Park. It's best to get here as early as you can in order to get a ticket for the tour. It's not very expensive, but their tours do sell out, especially in the summer months. We arrived, bought tickets for a tour several hours later, drove into Hot Springs, ate lunch, came back and spent about an hour in the visitor center/museum. It's very informative regarding the cave, the history of the area and plants and animals on this land. The cave tour was wonderful. This was the boys' first cave experience and it was an easy walk and a good length and so fascinating. We even saw a bat fly through while in the cave.
   2. Evan's Plunge. This is a natural spring fed indoor pool. Contrary to the name of the town, the spring is not hot water, but rather lukewarm. The pool floor is covered in smooth river rocks. There's a kiddie pool area, a water volleyball area, several slides and the whole pool is quite large. It was very relaxing and fun to spend our evening here. We arrived just a few hours before closing time and got a big discount on our admission, and still had plenty of time to swim.
   3. Mornin' Sunshine Café. We had lunch and scooped up a jar of local honey at this cute, little, art-covered café and bakery. It's a great stop for quick bite.
   4. Woolly's Grill. We had quite an appetite when we arrived here for dinner after several hours of swimming at Evan's Plunge. We were not disappointed. Everything here, including pies, buns and salad dressings are made from scratch. There were a number of gluten free choices, as well. The salad bar was fresh with lots of options and very tasty. The boys really enjoyed their Chicken Fried Steaks and my burgers was really delicious. Service was superb; even when we arrived 30 minutes before closing time.
5. Custer State Park
   1. Custer State Park Visitor Center: Stop in here and for great information, some hands-on learning, an interactive map, a beautiful movie about the park narrated by Kevin Costner (that part was enough for me) and the volunteers there can tell you where in the park the bison herd and donkeys were last spotted.
      
   2. Feeding Carrots to the Donkeys: DO NOT show up empty handed. These donkeys will not take it well. This is so much fun! The donkeys knew the drill and stuck their whole heads into our open windows in search of the carrots. We had one bag, but two bags would have been a great idea. We got some great pictures and had a lot of laughs with these fellas. And it is permitted by the park officials. We asked at the visit center.
      
   3. Scenic Drives: The Needles Highway, Peter Norbeck Scenic By-Way, Wildlife Loop and Iron Mountain Road are all amazing drives through this state park. If you can pull over to take in the view or walk a short trail to another amazing view, do so! These drives can take hours because of the twisting, turning, curving, up and down and stopping on these narrows routes, but they are totally a must-do. If you can only do one, drive the Needles Highway!
      
   4. Bison, Elk, Deer, Coyotes and Marmots, Oh MY: The Bison herd was a great find. We inched along the road as they crisscrossed the road and pastures all around us. Some stopped to have an argument in the middle of the road and another came over to smell our bumper. In the spring, there were a number of little ones, and that was very fun to see. Additionally, throughout our trip and our drives through Custer State Park, we counted over 100 deer. They were everywhere. We also saw a coyote, a couple of elk, prairie dogs and marmots. Keep your eyes open and see what you can see.

We loved absolutely everything about this trip even though we spent a good bit of time in the car. We stopped when and where we had a fancy and enjoyed each spot to its fullest. This is an iconic family road trip not to be missed. As I mentioned, we could have stayed another week and filled those days with many more activities that we did not have a chance to do. There is no shortage of fun to be had in this Southwest corner of South Dakota.

Note: We did go to the Crazy Horse Monument and museum and to the Mammoth Dig Site in Hot Springs, as well as the things listed above. We did enjoy ourselves at this places, but we all agreed we could have skipped these just as well. Additionally, the weekend we were there, Crazy Horse Monument had free admission with a donation of 3 cans of food per person, which we participated in. Had we paid to get in, rather than donate canned goods, I think I would have been rather disappointed in the place. Its only saving grace was that there happened to be a Native American family there demonstrating and explaining traditional dances and their dresses and ornamentations. That was really wonderful and the family was very personable and got all of the spectators involved in the last song and dance. The Mammoth Dig Site was over-priced and quite small and our tour guide was lacking.

Oh, and dress in layers. The weather and the temperatures can change quickly and drastically in the Black Hills. So, be prepared.

Where are you headed?

Anna

The Cheapskate’s Guide to Iceland

In October, we traveled to Iceland, and it was amazing. We were there 10 days, and we LOVED every bit of it! Every view, every experience, every waterfall, every pool, every meal, every rainbow, every craggy cliff, every sheep, every horse, every everything was utterly fantastic to us. We met some lovely people. We ate wonderful food. We stayed in interesting places. We learned so many fascinating things. We had one experience with bad/loud neighbors our first night in Reykjavik, bad enough to make us book a new place for the following 2 nights, but that actually all worked out well. And I dropped and broke my phone...thereby losing my camera and emails, reservations, etc., but we had my husband's phone and we made sure our son brought his phone (an older hand-me-down) for emergencies and we had brought one laptop for emergency access to information. I ended up using my son's old, hand-me-down phone for photos, and I think it was better than the one that broke. So, that too, all worked out fine.

It can be an expensive trip, but if you know how to plan and what to eat and where to go, you can save money and have enough for a few amazing splurges!

We did rent a vehicle because half of our trip was spent outside of Reykjavik exploring the countryside. Renting a vehicle is expensive, plus it's necessary (or at least a good idea) to get the insurance, and gas is extremely expensive (more on that below). So, the car took up a chunk of budget.

And yet, food was really not much more expensive, if at all, than what we see here in the Twin Cities. Which is to say, it is expensive, but we are used to that. If you come from a place that eating out is not exorbitant, then it may come as a shock to you when reading through a menu in Iceland, if you can quickly convert the Icelandic Krona to US dollars, that is. We found it best to be conservative in our ordering, but not convert the price and not worry too much about the cost. You have to eat, after all. We shared a lot of meals, and we did not eat every meal out. We do pack food, and we buy groceries when we travel. And we book apartments or homes or cabins that have full kitchens for preparing meals. Hostels often have a space for preparing your own meals, as well.

So, here are our tips for keeping your Iceland trip within your budget:

1. Fly IcelandAir. From MSP and other locations, you can get a direct flight. Our flight was 6 hours long, overnight. The plane was plenty spacious and the crew very friendly. Kids younger than 12 actually fly for less and receive a box of food and a small backpack type bag with fun activities and ear buds upon boarding. We chose the option for 1 bag included with each person's ticket, but in the end had one extra bag. They weighed that one last and then called it a "carry-on" and checked it for no extra cost, each way. Note: They are VERY STRICT on the size of carry-on bags. They can't be more than the size of a backpack or large purse. Fortunately, we don't fly with large suitcase type carry-on bags. So, we were fine regarding the carry-on bags.
2. Kids under 12 are free at most pools, spas, museums, tours, etc. I think the only places we had to pay for the kids were the Saga Museum, the Perlan and the performance at Harpa (see below).
3. Eat Icelandic hot dogs at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur. It's just a trailer. You'll see the line first. It's worth the wait. We went here two or three times. They are soooo good. Be sure to order them with everything! They are made with lamb…I think that is why they are so tasty.
4. Eat Soup. Anywhere and everywhere. We had some good lobster soups. Generally, places have a meat soup and veggie soup.
5. Braud & Co. is an AMAZING bakery! We got pastries here each day we were in Reykjavik and then stocked up on bread and pastries before we left Reykjavik to explore the country. While not dirt cheap, the pastries are so good and are not going to break the bank either. Get a variety and share them.
6. Reykjavik Roasters is just a block away from Braud & Co. and has delicious coffee and hot chocolate to go with your pastries. This should be your first or second stop of the morning…or any other time you need some coffee.
7. National Parks, waterfalls, geysirs, volcanoes, beaches, cliffs, glaciers, otherworldly landscapes and all natural wonders are free to explore to your heart's content. Our tip: if you see cars pulled over/stopped in a parking lot, pull over and check it out. One exception is Kerid Crater. This is on private land and it cost us a small amount, but it was worth it.
8. When renting a car, choose a couple of companies and message on Facebook or email and ask for a discount. Then, go back and forth until you get what you want. I got a 10% off discount by doing this. And get the insurance – some companies include most of the insurance types in their prices. Be sure to let them know what season you will be visiting and where you will be traveling. That way, you can be sure you get the right vehicle for your travels; some areas require a 4x4.
9. Buy groceries at Bonus or Kronan, the discount groceries stores. Buy local favorites and explore candy, bread, meat, cheese, skyr options. We LOVED the Isey brand skyr (Icelandic yogurt) and got some blueberry jam to mix into the plain skyr. We found that most of the Continental breakfasts we ate had skyr and jam, plus ham and butter and breads and a fish paste (similar to a tuna salad). So, we bought some of the things we had seen on the continental breakfasts when we bought groceries. We usually make sandwiches, eggs and toast, cereal, overnight fridge oatmeal and spaghetti for our cook at home meals with touches of fruits/veggies or cheeses or spreads or sauces or proteins that are local foods/tastes.
10. Pack your own food to bring. Word of caution: Check with customs to see if there are foods you can't bring in or take out. For instance, Iceland does not allow any meat to come in, dry or otherwise. So, no beef jerky/meat sticks – something we usually travel with. We always bring things like trail mix, dried fruit, coffee, tea, crackers, dry pasta, granola/protein bars and chocolate.
11. Eat pizza – it's easy to share and cheaper this way. We ate a lot of pizza. We love pizza! And it was delicious! Our favorite was Black Box in Reykjavik. It was mostly locals and the service and pizza were fantastic! Our next favorite was in Arnarstapi on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at Arnarbaer. Flatey Pizza in Reykjavik was disappointing though and the service was equally disappointing even though the reviews and ratings were good. We would not go there again.
12. Shop at Kolaportid – the indoor flea market in Reykjavik. I got an Icelandic wool sweater and an original watercolor for a great price there. It's the one place you need cash. There were so many cool things here. It's open only on the weekends.
13. Walk as much as possible and conserve gas. It is EXPENSIVE! I think walking is the best way to explore and not miss anything anyway, but sometimes you must drive, of course, if you are exploring outside of Reykjavik. So, when you plan your trip be aware that gas is quite costly. We paid about $300 total and it was the equivalent to a full tank of diesel.
14. Stay in a hostel, when possible. Some have family suites with private bathrooms. We stayed in a variety of types of lodging during our 10-day trip. One of them was the Base Hotel, a hostel that used to be the NATO Base barracks for families. We booked a family suite with private bathroom. It had two rooms with a total of 4 twin beds and one queen with a private bathroom for about $140 for the night. There was a game room, arcade games, a huge magnetic chessboard, a pool table and a library, a small café and a bar all with a cool, funky style and variety of travelers.
15. Book a Free Walking Tour. You pay what you can/what it was worth to you at the end of tour. It's an awesome way to get to know the city and its culture, government, food, the must dos and don'ts, etc. We do this kind of tour in any city we travel to that offers it.
16. Consider a Reykjavik city card for discounts. For us, and what we were doing and the age of our kids, it did not add up to a discount, but it's worth checking out.
17. There is no tipping at all in Iceland! (other than the free walking tours)
18. Talk to people, whether visitors or locals. They will give you tips and information that is invaluable.
19. Research and read everything you can find on Iceland. I found local blogs, TripAdvisor comments, maps and local Icelandic guide websites very helpful.
20. The Geothermal Bakery Bread Tour in Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn. We enjoyed the geothermal pools at the spa the night before we went on the Geothermal Bakery Bread Tour, and really enjoyed everything about the Fontana Spa. The bread tour was absolutely fascinating – at least to me – and quite affordable. We lucked out with our guide as it was her grandmother's bread recipe that they use and has been passed down for generations. The dark, dense, slightly sweet bread is baked inside a pot that is buried out in the hot sands where the hot springs are. After seeing how it is baked, we were served warm bread that was just dug up from the hot sand with thick slabs of butter. Our tour was just our family since no one else signed up for it, and we ate as much of the bread as we wanted.

    A few splurges that were totally worth it:

    1. The Blue Lagoon. The kids were free here, but for two adults with the basic package (towels, lockers and adults get 1 free drink) the total was still $200. This was our second stop after getting off the plane (first stop was a continental breakfast at Viking World). We were exhausted, and the blue lagoon was relaxing and rejuvenating! We spent 4 hours here. It's not to be missed. Word to the wise: Make reservations before you arrive! It does sell out. This is one of my favorite things I have EVER done. The locals tend to poo poo it, but it was an amazing experience and beautiful and unique and such a wonderful memory!
    2. Omnom Chocolate Factory Tour. The kids were free, but it was still about $80 total. We loved it! It was quite interesting, the chocolate was amazing, and the people were lovely. You get to taste all of their chocolate! IT IS FANTASTIC CHOCOLATE!
    3. How to Become Icelandic in 60 minutes at Harpa. Harpa is the performance center in Reykjavik and the architecture alone warrants a visit. It is beautiful and the outside tiles continuously change colors. We went to this performance on our first night. We were exhausted by the time difference and no sleep, but we laughed our heads off and loved it. While it is silly and fun and delightful, it is also quite an education and provides a fascinating look at the Icelandic culture and history and people. Make reservations before you go. It was a full house when we were there. (Be warned if you have young and/or sheltered children: There is some "language" as Captain America says and some topics are a bit savory, but our kids loved it, and we did not feel that it was inappropriate or regret taking them – our kids are not sheltered from "language" or information though)
    4. Lunch at Fridheimar Tomato Farm. Everything about this place made us happy! Of course, we all love tomatoes. The food is delicious. The warm, golden light of the green house feeds the plants and your soul and gives you a happy buzz. Service is friendly and impeccable. If you get just the soup buffet, it won't break the bank either. It's all you can eat tomato soup with butter, sour cream, julienned cucumbers in vinegar and basil for topping said soup and mounds and mounds of various delicious, rustic, made on site bread and coffee or tea to end the meal. Of course, you can order a few other tomato-based dishes too…and we did. So, this ended up being our most expensive meal, but it was my birthday and a splurge was in order. Oh, and it's best to make a reservation.
    5. The Saga Museum. It is a wax figure museum that tells the tales of the most famous Icelandic Sagas or stories. We each had an auditory guide and went through the fairly small museum at our own pace. It was beneficial for understanding many stories, locations, tours, etc. throughout our trip.
    6. The Perlan…or the Pearl. This is a wonderful museum for understanding the geologic formations and phenomena on the island. We found it quite educational. Additionally, there is a manmade ice tunnel/cave/glacier that is kept below freezing and made from ice. We took a guided tour through and it was really interesting. There is a deck around the top of Perlan that offers a wonderful view of the surrounding area.

If you have the chance to travel to Iceland, do it! It is such a wonderful trip, no matter what season you choose to go. I have other tidbits about places to stay and where to eat, and maybe one day I'll get around to writing those posts.

Where are you headed?

Anna

Happy New Year {Happy New Word}

Well, the tree is down, and we've eaten our lucky black-eyed peas, let the new year commence!

It is with mixed feelings that I say farewell to 2018. It was an excellent year for my family. Oh, there are always hiccups and snags, but for the most part we were "healthy and wealthy and wise" as the saying goes, even if we weren't all "early to bed and early to rise." We took some splendid trips in 2018 that entertained, educated and enlightened us. We held each other and friends and family and hope and faith near to our hearts. Yes, for us, it was a good year.

However, for so many in this world, it was a difficult year. And for those who hurt and struggled and fought hard to survive and mourned those who did not make it to 2019, I am glad to close the door on 2018 with hope and faith that 2019 will usher in a new era of peace and compassion and mercy and justice.

Each year, for the past 6 or 7 years or so, I have tried to choose a word for the coming year…except I don't actually choose it, I let the word come to me and choose me. Sometimes it is very apparent and other years it takes days of listening and looking for my word to appear.

The other day, I read something someone had shared on Facebook. The blurb was actually about grief, but there was something that spoke to me in this passage that was beyond grief and really applied to everything in life. It stuck with me for days, and I realized this was my word. The word is "And." Yes, the tiny, simple, almost invisible, and completely necessary and useful "and."

And as in: I love my kids, AND I hate their bickering and whining.

And as in: I love coffee, AND I love tea.

And as in: I love my country, AND I abhor the current administration.

And as in: I love Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, Brad Pitt, AND I love my husband.

And as in: I love the beauty of a Minnesota winter, AND I struggle with the dark and dreary days.

And as in: I enjoy going out to a movie or dinner or performance or see friends, AND I am completely happy to stay at home and read a book or watch a movie or cook in my kitchen.

Well, you get the idea.

With the word "and" I can often eliminate "but." "But" is a limiting word. It's a choose-one-side-or-the-other-kind of word. It's an isolating word.

"And" is an inclusive word. It doesn't make you choose. With this word, I can have it both ways. It allows for more shades of gray (in a good way). "And" is not a black and white word. "And" brings us together. "And" recognizes that things can be difficult/dark/stinky/murky and hopeful/happy/optimistic/clear.

So, I am embracing the possibilities of AND! It will take some practice to remember to insert "AND" instead of "BUT" and I'm up for the challenge! {see what I did there}

What's your word for 2019? Happy New Year! Over and out…

Anna

*Photo by the lovely AND fantastic AND fun erin and i photography! Check them out at Erinandiphotography.pixieset.com.

Being Thankful

Being Thankful is a state of mind. The feeling of gratitude is something I strive to think of and live out daily. There are certainly days that I feel other things much more than I feel thankful or grateful, but it takes diligence and resilience to continually feel thankful. It's a work in progress. I have come to see that being thankful has nothing to do with what one has or has not.

When I was younger, I was not aware or conscious of feeling thankful for things or people or feelings or places. As I have aged with time and experiences, I have grown more acutely aware of privilege and grace and mercy and kindness and luck showered upon me. And I have become more thankful for the things that make my life easier, happier, safer, etc. I have become more grateful to all the people (and animals) who are here to stay, those who are here for a chapter or two and those who merely cross paths with me. I have become more appreciative of natural beauty: the sky completely slays me every day, all day with its ever changing hues and patterns and movement; beaches, mountains, rivers, forests, waterfalls, the sun bathing the downtown skyline in gold, a fresh snowfall, the unbelievable colors of fall, the new green of spring and full out verdant beauty of summer leave me completely humbled.

When I was younger, I was bashful and shy and self-conscious, and I worried about what people would think if I danced or cried or sang out loudly. As the years tumble by, I care less and less what others think about anything I do. And for that I am truly thankful. It is liberating to be at peace with oneself.

On Thanksgiving, it is easy to get caught up thinking about the turkey and all the trimmings and the table settings and what time the guests are arriving; with shopping and making Christmas lists and when the tree is going up; with cleanup and putting away the extra table and chairs and taking down the fall decorations, but what I will be trying to settle my thoughts on is how absolutely, truly, completely thankful I am that I was born in a free country, to free, privileged, educated, good, fair, loving, caring parents and have been handed a multitude of opportunities and blessings and privileges and been loved and taken care of by so many people throughout my life.

Life is never free from all pain, trouble, cloudy skies, detours or dead ends, but that doesn't mean there isn't anything to be grateful for. It could always be worse. And that alone is reason to be thankful. Look for the good, the bright, the warm, the cozy, the kind, the beautiful, the half full or at the very least not completely empty.

May each and every one of you have much on your list to be thankful for on Thanksgiving and each day of the year. Peace and safe passages to you and yours!

Anna

Agreeing to Disagree

I am the first to stand up for our right to free speech. I am accepting (not simply tolerant) of those from other countries, other religions, other parts of our country, different colors of skin, any sexual orientation or gender, other political parties and backgrounds. Not only am I accepting of these things, I think it makes life, our country, our world a better place with all of this diversity in it.

I try not to assume, but to ask questions instead. I try to be respectful and not lose patience with certain points of view. I do try…even if I am not always successful.

However, it's no longer enough to say "Hey, we are all entitled to our own opinions." "We can agree to disagree." "That's the great thing about the country, we don't all have to agree." "Where's the respect?"

But I am certainly not advocating for name calling or ugliness.

What I am clumsily trying to say is that there is a difference between disagreeing about whether to spend more on infrastructure which would raise taxes and disagreeing about whether it is acceptable for our president to tell blatant lies (repeatedly) and call people ugly, rude names and treat them like dirt any time anyone does not agree with him or dares to ask questions of him (or any of the MANY other things he does that is questionable, out-of-line or even against the constitution, a policy or law).

This is simply a very limited example of what I am addressing.

The difference between these two examples and agreeing to disagree is that regarding government spending there are (at least) two arguments to be made in debating and deciding what is best for our people and the country and the budget, and we can respect each of the positions made.

In the instance of our president telling lies (that can be easily checked to determine what the truth is), making up things that don't exist and calling people names and being really ugly to those who disagree with him and ask questions of him, there is never a time his behavior should be acceptable as the president of the United States of America. There are not two arguments to be made. There are not two sides to this coin. Period.

Your opinion on areas like taxes, military engagement, use of our land, environmental issues, health care, etc., are welcome and we can agree to disagree if that is how we end up. Again, these are normal political issues with multiple positions and considerations.

Telling lies, being verbally abusive and generally rude and ugly and throwing around one's weight for the sake of power are not political issues. We, as Americans with a democratic government, should never accept a leader who acts this way. NEVER!

{Warning: this is where my husband, Will, would like this post to end. Continue reading if you want my version of the ending.}

So, when it comes to agreeing to disagree or backing down from taking a stand or taking flak for not being respectful to the president or to others in ELECTED offices, I will not just get over it or be nice or take off the gloves. The liberal/broad-minded people have done that for far too long. That is why it's so shocking to the conservative/narrow-minded folks. The left wing is refusing to stand quietly in the corner while the right wing shouts down from their pedestal demanding respect and tolerance and religious freedom…based on their own narrowly drawn definitions….all while standing with a man who bows down to the golden calf and worships at the temple of greed and lust, throwing anyone who dares to stand in his way into the pit with the lions.

So, I am finished tiptoeing around, wearing the gloves to deal a soft blow or pretending I'm OK with someone's position to agree to disagree about how we treat people in this country. I will not call you names. I will not threaten you. I will not be apologetic for my position. I will not back down or shut up. I will not stop.

I will take a strong position. I will use my voice. I will call you out for your ignorance, if necessary. I will further explain my stance, if needed. I will agree to disagree on the political issues. Over and out…

Anna

Let Me Explain… #Misunderstood

I read a lot of news articles from a number of sources. I also share a lot of news articles. Most of what I post and share goes almost completely unnoticed, with the exception of the handful of like-minded Facebook friends who usually agree with me. Every once in a while, I strike a nerve. When I do, they are almost always Texans. I don't know if it is because they expect all Texans to think alike or that they just happen to notice a post every once in a while and then others see that they have noticed and jump on board too. Either way, each time, it costs me some "friends." But heck, I think that means we weren't really friends in the first place.

Regardless, I have been unclear in a Facebook post and I upset some people, and I decided I needed a space to be able to expand my thoughts and be clearer. My intention was not to upset people, not to put them on the defensive, but to help people to expand their views and open up their minds and worlds to see a bigger picture. I, at least partially, failed in doing this.

Here is what I shared.

"And Christians wonder why so many people are leaving religion. We, the Christians, often seem to be quite the hypocrites...for a great many years now, really. For this (erring human, who often falls short, but is always striving to be more like Jesus) Christian, it makes me very sad and angry. In my humble opinion, you can't support the Trump administration and all his minions and be a Christian. He goes against all tenets of Christianity. TO CLARIFY: I am making the point that in my opinion, you cannot both stand with Trump & his cronies & stand for Christian beliefs. I am sorry if you cannot see this point."

(The meme shared shows a family with the dad with an open Bible on his lap. The son says, "So if the Bible says we should help the poor, welcome the foreigner, heal the sick, respect others, not lie, not commit adultery, and not steal, then why do we support Donald Trump? And dad replies, "Oh, Billy. We don't actually practice these things. We only preach them.")    

The response I got from some, all of them related to me in some way, hurt my heart and made me realize how very far apart our views are, which is frustrating and confusing and very sad to me. Let me explain.

To begin with, here is a bit about me and what makes me tick because it is clear to me some friends and family may not understand me.

I feel things very deeply and passionately, all the way through me from my head to my toes. I have an unshakeable faith in my God and in the principles of Christianity. I am very loyal, and I will always do what I can when someone needs something. I wholeheartedly love my family, both near and far. I am sensitive, but tough. I will not back down from an argument or stance that I feel is important and true. I have an abiding sense of justice and what is right and wrong. I will engage with strangers if I think they are doing wrong and need correcting or calling out. I talk a lot sometimes, but I need silence and solitude and time alone to think, to be, to re-charge. Music and movies and animals and loss, whether mine or someone else's make me cry. My heart often trumps my head, even when I know better. I pray continually, all through the day.

I am also deeply political, meaning that I stay apprised of what the issues are and what is happening with our government policies and the overall attitude of all three branches of government. I feel very strongly about my duty and responsibility as a citizen of this country to be aware of what is happening in Washington, D.C., etc.

I like balance. I need to be able to reconcile where people stand with their beliefs and who they support. I need to be able to find reason for why things happen. I like to be in control of my surroundings, or at least in control of myself within my surroundings.

I seek beauty in all things, and I find it…in nature, in art, in stories, in music, in people. And I often take pictures of it or paint it or write about it.

I do not wish to condemn or judge. I wish to broaden worlds and minds and educate in all things in all ways.

I am profoundly hurt when I am misunderstood by people who I thought knew me and my heart. I have high expectations of people, and I don't allow all people to really get to know me. When I do, I feel very let down when they misinterpret my actions or words or do not support me in my endeavors. People often let me down. I suppose this is because I am rarely ever truly understood or truly known. And that really hurts.

So, short story long, it appears…this is who I am.

Now, what I meant when I shared the above or what I mean when I share other similar things is this: I cannot reconcile how someone who loves God and follows the tenets of Christianity can possibly support the hate-filled, fear mongering, abusive and divisive words and policies and lies of our current administration and the politicians who follow and enable it.

What I mean to say is: how can you support a president who uses such ugly words against and to describe women (or objects to be grabbed and used); who calls other politicians who fail to agree with him names and respects no one?

What I mean to say is: how can you stand beside this man whose policy – yes, his policy (do your homework) separates children from their parents. These are parents who seek a better, safer life for their children. Would you not do the same in their position? I really hope you would.

What I mean to say is: how can you stand with someone who wants to discriminate against people who are different than say a white, privileged, heterosexual male?

What I mean to say is: how can you stand with someone who simply lies because the truth just does not matter, or he doesn't know the difference between the truth and a lie or just doesn't care whether what he says is true? Honestly, I don't know why he does it, but it does not matter why. He lies. That is all that one needs to know.

What I mean to say is: how can you support someone who calls himself a nationalist? In case you don't know, the term nationalism, based on a dictionary definition means: an extreme form of patriotism, especially marked by a feeling of superiority of other nations. Nazis were considered nationalists, as an, albeit extreme, example. Now, white nationalists are neo Nazis and KKK members. There is a difference, but honestly, when Trump said that he was a nationalist just this week in Houston, I am not sure if he was pandering to extreme patriots or those who hate people of color. Either way, how can you stand with this man?

I think that conservative/Republican America has underestimated the sadness, the fear, the anger and the depth of feelings that liberal/Democrat America has involving this administration. There is a deeper divide in our country than there has been in a great while.

What I mean to say is that how can you stand along side a man who seeks to destroy our entire institution of democratic government?

If you stand on your religion as your base, and hold tight to abortion issues and gay rights issues, you need to broaden your knowledge of issues concerning this country. First of all, this administration does not care about your religion, not one iota. Secondly, I recognize there is no point for me to try to convince you that abortion will not go away if it is illegal, but that women (and fetuses) will die in desperation, doing whatever they can to obtain an abortion, legal or not. And on top of that, abortion numbers have been going down and down and down for years, but I won't argue with you about that. Thirdly, LGBTQIA rights really don't concern you unless you fall into those categories, but as a religious person, I believe you should seek to love all people and treat them with kindness and mercy. Remember God loves all people and does not make mistakes. They and you will be judged one day, but you don't have to worry about them.

So, what I mean to say is this. If I struck a nerve with this post, maybe it's is because you realized you don't know that much about the policies and stances of this administration and you need to learn more. Or perhaps you realized you need to change your ways or maybe you just don't know me very well and you should ask me to explain what I mean.

I am open to discussions, but the comments made it clear that my point had been missed. I am not sure if it is possible for the veil that divides our thoughts and stances on this administration to be lifted so that your eyes can be opened to why I feel the way I do or how I hear and see what is happening or vice versa (because I do not understand how anyone still supports this man and his regime).

I don't want to give up on you, and I don't want you to give up on me. However, I do want you to understand that to me these issues I discussed are not just passing political rhetoric, but are fundamental principles on how people should treat other people and how we should approach our world, our country, our neighbors.

This is why my heart hurts so much. I see that there are so many people I love and care about and admire and trust that are blind to the greed, the hate, the lies, the fear being instilled in them every day by this administration and its minions, including FOX news. And I don't seem to be able to reach these people. And yet, if you need me, I will be here. I will not stop loving you. I will not stop being loyal. I will not stop standing up for what I believe is true. I will not stop praying for you, our nation and its leaders. I will not be silent. I will not stop attempting to broaden minds and attitudes.

If after all this explanation and look into my head and heart, you cannot see me for who and what I am and stand for, perhaps you might think to yourself, "I should try to get to know her better to understand her more." Of course, you might also think, "I don't care what she thinks or how she feels." And that's fine too. It's up to you.

This is who I am. Peace to you. Over and out…

Anna

The Power of Impact

To start with, I've had a bad cold. I got it from my boys over the weekend while traveling. Of course, it means nothing when mom gets a cold. Life goes on. So, I have been tired and cranky and generally feeling cruddy all week. Thursday was no exception, but then my mood got worse. And on Friday, I woke with a tremendously heavy sadness on my heart and mind. Here's why.

On, Thursday, the boys and I spent the day with my computer or phone on a live feed of the Senate Judiciary Committee, watching both Dr. Christine Blasey Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh testify before the nation.

I knew only her story and very little else about Dr. Ford before her testimony. I thought I believed her story, but was anxious to hear her and see her tell her side of things to determine her credibility in my own mind…not that my opinion of her matters in the least.

I was struck by her calm, yet genuine and terrified-beneath-the-surface demeanor. I understood how she felt sitting there sharing her most devastating details of shame and guilt and confusion and sadness and aloneness that she has been carrying with her for 36 years. My heart went out to her.

We listened to her words and watched her face and heard her tone and completely believed her. She gains nothing and has lost much in coming forward to speak. My heart broke for her.

Listening to her speak about her 15 year old self and this bewildering, traumatizing experience took me back to my teenage years. I recalled two distinct times that I allowed myself to get into a vulnerable position, during high school, about 28 years ago. Now, I say that I allowed myself to get into a vulnerable situation because time and time again we see that it is the woman's responsibility to steer clear of such situations and it's her fault if she does not.

Now, in my case, nothing happened to me in either of these instances, but I am now and was then well aware that it could have. Just knowing I was in a situation that made me feel trapped and vulnerable, I can clearly recall all kinds of details about the space I was in, the smells, the sounds, some (but not all) of the people there or nearby, how I felt and what I was thinking, but I could not give you a date and I could not name each person there. I'm not even sure of the exact year. This does not mean it didn't happen.

I imagine that if you asked the other people who were there with me during those two instances they would not recall these things in such detail. In fact, I would bet they would not have any recollection of these instances at all. This does not mean it didn't happen.

I NEVER told anyone about these instances…not my best friend, not my mother, not my husband. No one. This is the first time I have ever shared anything about these two instances outside of my own mind. I did not tell anyone because I felt shame for allowing myself to get into such situations. This does not mean it didn't happen.

The reason it stands out in my memory so vividly and has stayed with me all of these years is that it had a significant impact on me. After the second instance, I promised myself then, in high school, I would not allow myself to get into such a vulnerable situation again. These two instances scared me and cautioned me and trained me and shaped me.

I can imagine that the other people involved in these two instances didn't recall it happening a year after it occurred, let alone 5 or 10 or 22 years later. This is simply because it did not have an impact on them. It did not scare them or worry them or warrant a change in how they approached certain people or situations.

Now, going back to Dr. Ford and Judge Kavanaugh, one of them is not telling the truth, or at least not remembering what happened correctly. One of them was not impacted by this experience. My money is on Judge Kavanaugh as being the one who is not telling the whole truth and/or not remembering the instance correctly and thoroughly.

Judge Kavanaugh's demeanor and attitude also made me think of instances, both in working in the courts and general life experiences, of privileged men who are used to getting what they want when they want it, and then get caught being bad and are at risk of not getting what they want.

He yelled and deflected blame and repeated the same answers over and over and made accusations. He was evasive and sometimes responded with silence. He talked back and whined and cried. He was all kinds of emotional and belligerent and haughty. I have seen this behavior. I know this kind of behavior. I have seen this behavior from grown men, but any parent will recognize this kind of adolescent, rebellious, defensive fit throwing, as well.

This spoiled, whining, privileged man child having a huge meltdown temper tantrum was watched by thousands and thousands of people, and I believe it will have an impact.

The impact will not be on the male Republican Senators who rebuked the Democrats for causing such pain and suffering for this upstanding man and his family…at least not directly…and who will vote to confirm Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court of the United States.

The impact will not be on Kavanaugh who will most likely still get his way and be appointed for life to the United States Supreme Court. His family is not ruined. They will move on from this. But let me say, I am sad for his wife and daughters who are having to go through all of this because of their husband and father.

And yet, I do think there will be an impact. I think there already is a wave of change that has been gathering momentum and speed and depth and integrity and raw, composed rage. It's coming….just you wait.

For now, I will keep explaining and teaching and showing my boys what is right and wrong; what justice looks like; what respect looks like; what mercy looks like; what integrity looks like; and how Jesus instructs Christians to act.

From a different perspective, as a student of the law with a deep respect for the highest court in our land and for (most) of the justices who sit on the Supreme Court of the United States, I am greatly distressed, disappointed and frustrated. Putting aside whether he has repeatedly, on several topics, lied before Congress and whether he sexually assaulted one or more women, the person who has emerged under pressure in these hearings is NOT the kind of impartial, rational, discerning person the United States Senate should be placing on the Court. Our highest court of the land deserves better than this. We, the people of this democracy, deserve better than this.

My heart breaks and my blood boils for all people everywhere who have been hurt, broken, taken advantage of, assaulted, raped and have told their stories only to be threatened, ridiculed and worst of all, ignored.

I hear you. I believe you. You matter. You have made an impact. You are not alone. Everyone does eventually get his day in court; before his maker, that is.

Over and out…

Anna

For the Love of My Children

Here's what I know. Nothing is for sure. Everything can change. We are no better than any other country. Our country and its government are not at its most stable and certainly not at its most proud moment in history. Jesus Christ instructs us to love and show kindness and mercy and aid to all people.

I also know deep down to the core of my existence that I will do anything to keep my children safe and healthy. ANYTHING. If that means leaving everything I know behind and trekking across countries, mile after mile, to seek asylum from dangerous people and conditions, I would do it. It would be scary and painful and confusing. It would take immense faith and strength and patience and courage. But it would all be worth it if I knew in my heart of hearts that it was the best…maybe the ONLY…option for keeping my children safe, and I would do it.

I hope you would too.

I think you would.

I bet you love your children as much as I love mine.

So, WHY OH WHY, is this so hard for so many people to understand the plight of these people pouring into the borders after making the very long and difficult trek from their dangerous and unstable homelands?

And how is it possible that not ALL moms and dads (or really ALL people) in the U.S. are not completely outraged at the separation of children and parents and detaining of those seeking asylum at the border. {I do realize that the separation has supposedly stopped, but there are still scores of families who are separated and children facing judges alone.}

These children and parents keep me up at night and fill my prayers and consume my thoughts. The whole of it breaks my heart and makes my blood boil.

And it hurts my heart that I don't see and hear every person in this country in an uproar by all of this purposeful breaking up of families already in peril and in need of love, support and aid.

I realize immigration is a complex issue, but accepting refugees and immigrants into these borders since even before our founding is what has made our country so strong and complex and vibrant and full of innovation and creative spirit and thriving cities and farmlands and communities of all sizes from border to border.

And if one can't see that, then you need to go back to the beginning of U.S. history and study how and why our country came to be. Include in that history how the early settlers disregarded those borders and lands of the people who were already living here, eventually completely disregarding the people too and not just their territories.

Don't forget to read about how we rounded up and kept fenced in the Japanese Americans {mind you, they were American citizens} when we went to war against Japan during WWII.

Of course, a large portion of our history should cover our forefathers, the slaveholders, and the treatment of the Africans kidnapped from their own countries and taken from their own borders and forced into ours. Go on through the Civil War and remember to take special note as to why brothers fought brothers during this most terrible war {Hint: it wasn't merely state's rights; it was really concerning one right: the right to own another human being.}

Look at how we treated the freed slaves and how LONG it took for us to pass laws that made our laws apply to all people within our borders, including African Americans, women, Native Americans and LGBTQ folks.

Make sure to read about all the different points in our history that various groups of immigrants sought refuge through our ports. Of course, each of us have a personal family history to learn from, as well.

After all of the reading and studying and researching to learn and remind and open your heart and mind, I hope you will see how very abundantly we, as a country, have been blessed by all of these cultures and histories and ethnicities blending and sharing and building into one United States of America.

BUT in the end, this particular situation comes back to the only thing that matters right now. Families seeking asylum are being turned away or separated and jailed. This is not right.

I want you to take a minute to realize that this could happen to you. It could. Our country could slide into complete chaos. We could fight a war on our soil. We could become the ones in need of protection and need to leave our country and enter another country's border. Don't kid yourself.

If you can't bring yourself to imagine a bleak U.S. future, then recall that by the grace of God you were born into a free country or had the good fortune to be able to come to this country and become a citizen; that parents in all countries all over God's green earth love their children so much that they would do ANYTHING to protect them; that sometimes you have to risk everything to keep your kids safe, even if that means breaking the law and entering a border illegally, in order to get help and make a new start; that Jesus would help these people and calls upon us to do the same; and that Joseph, Mary and Jesus once were refugees in Egypt, fleeing Herod's murderous rampage inflicted upon young children.

You might be asking yourself, "A bleeding heart liberal and a Christian? Can it be possible?" Oh, yes! Take heart; there are a number of us out there. I'm proud to wear both badges.

If when I die, people say that I stood for love and mercy and justice and always stood up for those who could not speak up for themselves, then I will feel that I have accomplished something in my life.

If you feel so inclined to do something for these families, please check out Raices Texas – pronounced Rah E Cis – standing for Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education. They are a Texas nonprofit organization that works to pair immigration attorneys with the parents and kids in custody, pays for their bonds and is working hard to reunify families and pursue asylum, when necessary.

Over and out…

Anna

The Importance of Graphic Novels {yet another way in which reading challenged kids are failed in our school systems}

Hey there….it's been a while….and I am bubbling over with all kinds of things I'd like to share, discuss, argue about, etc. and I'm starting with this…

Back in May, the boys and I were at a Scholastic book fair at a public elementary school. We never turn down a chance to find new books to read and call our own. My younger son was looking for a particular Scholastic graphic novel that he'd seen elsewhere, but thought they might have it at the book fair for a cheaper price. I asked my friend, who happened to be working the book fair, if they had the graphic novel. She told me no, they didn't order many graphic novels because they encouraged the kids to choose other {basically, more substantive} books to read. At these book fairs, each student at this school gets a free book to take home, and she told me that they don't allow them to choose a graphic novel for their free book.

It was at this moment that I realized I had a passion for the IMPORTANCE OF GRAPHIC NOVELS! Don't worry, I am about to expand your world with my passion!

Let me remind you that both of my boys are dyslexic. Let me further remind you, or inform you, that it is estimated that 1 in 10 people have dyslexia. Additionally, it is estimated that 40 million adults have dyslexia and only 2 million know it.

So what do these statistics mean and what do they have to do with graphic novels? Well, these stats mean there are a great number of kids and adults who really struggle to read and spell and don't know why. Often, kids {who then grow into adults} start to think they can't read or read well because they are dumb and they lose confidence in themselves.

Let me pause here to clarify that dyslexia has NOTHING to do with IQ. In fact, often people with dyslexia have extremely high IQs and are gifted in a number of areas and are highly creative, innovative thinkers and quite entertaining. Simply put dyslexia is a neurological condition caused by a different wiring of the brain.

And so, when it comes to books and reading, people with dyslexia greatly struggle, especially those who have not yet been or never are diagnosed with dyslexia.

Now, to the graphic novels…

When my sons were struggling to read, both before and in the early days of being diagnosed as dyslexic, they had a hard time finding books they could read that were of interest to them. That is to say, if one is reading at a significantly lower level than others in that child's grade/age level, one will often find that the topics covered in books they can read or kind of read are topics below their maturity/interest level.

BUT graphic novels cover many reading levels and many categories. To illustrate, my older son, who is entering 7^th grade and now reads at a 12^th grade level thanks to Wilson Reading System, reads all kinds of chapter books, but still really loves a good graphic novel. His favorites cover historical periods. He is currently reading one on Alexander Hamilton. There are graphic novels that are specifically for adults, not kids, due to the topic/graphic nature just as there are graphic novels for 3^rd graders, 5^th graders, middle schoolers and high schoolers.

Thus, graphic novels are for everyone. They do have fewer words than chapter books, but still pack the punch of a chapter book and can be quite entertaining, educational and still a lot of work to get through if you are a poor reader. But these types of books enable those poor readers to get through a book (a book with a topic they are interested in), build confidence and not look like the class dummy reading a book about ducks that is meant for 1^st graders when they're in 5^th grade. Or alternatively, these kids who are, for whatever reason, poor readers in order to not be embarrassed pick out a book that they will never be able to get through, but their buddies got this book, it's at their grade level and so they get it and it sits unread in the bottom of a drawer.

I, for one, would rather see a kid reading graphic novels with far fewer words than a chapter book than to just not read at all.

And those parents/teachers who made that decision to not order many graphic novels or let students choose a graphic novel for their free book, CLEARLY have never sat and cried with their child as they struggle to get through a simple sheet of the alphabet or read just a few pages of a VERY simple book. Once again, the public school system has let down these undiagnosed or more than likely just ignored children challenged with dyslexia or other learning challenges that make reading a difficult task for them.

Graphic novels are creative and interesting and artistic, and this household is a great fan of them. However, until my friend made that statement at the book fair, I had no idea how very important graphic novels were to me.

In my opinion, teachers should be using them a great deal with reading challenged kids. It has been the jumping off point for many fascinating historical and literary discussions with my kids. Not only do they really get into these types of books, they also write and create their own too. Graphic novels are full of potential…just as these amazing kids are!

Are graphic novels the answer to dyslexia and other reading challenges? Of course not, but they are an aid for building self-confidence and a boost along the way to {perhaps} an eventual love of reading. The answer for kids who struggle to read is early detection and a massive, across the board, change in how we, in our country, teach kids how to read. It is all quite doable, but are our public school systems willing to make these changes?

Over and out….

Anna

 

Joy like a Panda {My Word for 2017}

Each December, in the dusk of the old year, I open up my mind for a new word to live by for the coming year. Now, this may sound like gibberish to you, but it works for me. Year after year, a word will come to me and when it does, it's always fitting, even when I have doubts.

In 2016, my word was "renewed." I definitely needed to be renewed and to find hope and happiness and let go of a lot this year. While there was sadness and heartache in 2016 with the passing of three of our much loved, elderly pets, there was also much renewing with 7 trips to see friends and family and new cities and old favorites. {Travel is my absolute passion.}

I allowed myself to keep tweaking our curriculum and my teaching methods and educational focus without feeling doubt and guilt. I better recognized when we needed a break or a change. I gave myself license to take a day for me when I needed it.

We adopted a new kitten and puppy, adding lots of renewed life and energy to our household.

I continue to have complete faith in my God. This is how I make it through each day, day after day. And by the grace of God, I've made it through another year. While the coming year feels bleak and uncertain to me, my ever abiding faith will sustain me.

Oddly enough, despite my anxiety over the state of our world, the word that came to me the other day while I was drying my hair was "Joy." Now, I thought to myself, "Joy? This doesn't seem right for 2017." But the words kept repeating in my head…"yes, joy!" Then, I wondered what kind of joy, in what form.

Joy is defined as "a state of happiness or felicity." But it's also defined as "a source or cause of delight." And it's important to remember that delight and joy are synonymous.

Joy is being happy and exuding happiness, which in turn can act as a source or cause for another's joy or delight. This seems like a good thing, being happy and being the cause of another's joy.

There are two scriptures that come to mind when I think of joy…

"Delight yourself in the Lord; And He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

And Psalm 100:

              Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

              Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing.

Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.

For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.

I've always liked these scriptures...I was beginning to see that joy was the right word for 2017…

Then, I saw a video of a Panda playing in the snow with such pure joy, and I thought I want to have joy like a Giant panda. Honestly, when you think about videos of pandas, don't you think of joy? They always seem so happy and curious and delighted to be doing whatever they're doing, even when it's mischievous or when they get themselves into sticky situations, which seems to be often. And they are the source of great joy to the people who see these amazingly beautiful and interesting creatures.

So, it is with the unbridled joy of a Giant panda that I will strive to make a joyful noise unto the Lord and serve with gladness and thankfulness throughout the year of 2017...even though I'm not always good at unbridled joy {since I'm a Type A personality kind of gal}, I'm going to give it my all!

In so doing, I will continue to look for any opportunity to travel and explore and give aid and mercy and do good and be kind and supportive and stand up for what I believe in. Here's to a joy filled 2017! What's your word? Over and out…

Anna

 

Merry Christmas from Us to You: The Best I Can Do {On Christmas Cards}

I don't send Christmas cards. Honestly, I haven't been good at it since about 1997. So, I gave up entirely about 7 or 8 years ago…I'm not even sure that my younger son ever even made it onto Christmas card. But hey, you have to figure out your strengths and weaknesses and let go of the things that cause you stress and aren't necessary. The older you get the more you realize these things.

For me, that means not sending Christmas cards {or much of any correspondence if it must be mailed, come to think of it...}, not making my bed or forcing anyone else in the house to either, never wrapping gifts {gift bags and tissue only}, painting my toenails only in the summer {at max that's about 3 times} and letting my kids choose their own outfits, regardless of whether they match or look good or not {unless it's an important event}.

You may or may not agree with my list of unnecessaries, and that's fine. I'm sure you have your own list of unnecessaries. But here's the thing, if you send Christmas cards, we LOVE getting them. Please keep sending them! But if it stresses you out, we totally understand, and we'll understand not getting a card from you too.

So, in lieu of a stamped and mailed Christmas card, here's our family's year-end accounting and well wishes for you and yours during this most glorious seasons of peace and love…

We truly had a blessed year that was full of love and loss and lessons learned. We traveled and explored and laughed and cried and argued.

As always, we found great comfort and had loads of fun with our family and friends spread throughout this amazingly beautiful country.

We felt a sense of wonder and awe as we stood on the most northern shores of Minnesota overlooking the great Lake Superior and when we waded out into the clear Atlantic Ocean off Key Biscayne and when we swam in the gently rippling Gulf of Mexico in Marco Island and when we soaked up the history of our country's capitol and the "Windy City" and Miami and Atlanta. In short, we loved getting to know new cities and the people who inhabit them.

We had good health and added two new babies…both with fur…to our crew, after saying goodbye to three of our elderly and much loved babies early in this year. The boys grew in smarts and height and heart and sass.

We worked. We played. We were grateful for opportunities and friendships and our humble home. We can't complain.

We look forward to the New Year with hope and love and mercy and great faith in our ever abiding Lord.

Merry Christmas to You All, and May You All Have Much Peace and Love in the Coming Year! Over and out…

The Berend Family

Sticky Business {Homemade Marshmallow Recipe}

We've been sick…colds, flu-ish virus, Strep – you name it, one of us seems to have had it. The last week pretty much did us in, and on top of that, it's gotten SUPER cold. So, the boys and I have been sticking close to home and keeping cozy and warm and nursing our respective illnesses.

We like hot chocolate on these super cold, blustery, snowy days. And we like to have marshmallows in our hot chocolate, but that's gotten more complicated. My son has developed a severe sensitivity to artificial colors, and can you believe that most marshmallows have a blue dye in them? Yep, it's true, unfortunately.

We were excited when we found Trader Joe's marshmallows – gluten free for me and no artificial colors for him and really good – win-win…except for some reason they only make them in July and November. I think they are really missing out on selling these suckers, but no one asked me.

Now, our other options are to buy pretty expensive and not so delicious marshmallows at our co-op or try making them at home. I know a number of people who swear by their homemade marshmallows. So, earlier this week, I decided to try and experiment with making them.

Two challenges: 1) I rarely have all the ingredients I need and often have to substitute. 2) I don't own a candy thermometer.

But, lo and behold, I had all the ingredients (yes, even packets of gelatin, oddly enough) and I found an approximate time for cooking, not just a temperature to reach. So, we gave it a shot.

It's relatively easy, but it's a sticky business. When I was finished my hands were sticky, the counters were sticky, my mixer was sticky, the stovetop was sticky, the pot holder was sticky.

Here's the recipe I used. It's from Martha Stewart (normally I find that her recipes don't turn out, but I recall a cousin saying she uses this recipe), and this worked well for us.

Homemade Marshmallows

• 4 envelopes of unflavored gelatin
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (use good vanilla – it makes a difference!)
• confectioners' sugar for dusting

Butter 9 x 13 baking dish and dust with confectioners' sugar; set aside.

Combine sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 3/4 cup water into a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.

Cook, without stirring, until mixture reaches 238 degrees on a candy thermometer or about 9 minutes.

 I don't have a candy thermometer and went by the 9 minute cooking time and it worked out for me. Start timer when mixture is at a rolling boil.

 Meanwhile, put 3/4 cup cold water into a large bowl for mixing whole mixture and sprinkle with gelatin. Let soften 5 minutes.

 With mixer on low speed, beat hot syrup into gelatin mixture. Gradually raise speed to high; beat until mixture is very stiff, about 12 minutes.

 Beat in vanilla.

 Pour into prepared dish, and smooth with spatula. Set aside until firm. 

 Instructions say uncovered, but at our house that would mean it would end up with pet hair and maybe even some tiny cat nose prints in it. So, I covered it with a silicone lid. These instructions said to let it set up for about 3 hours; other instructions said overnight. I decided to let it firm overnight. I did try a bit after about 3 hours though and it was firm, but still VERY sticky. I dusted the top with confectioner's sugar and let it sit.

Butter a sharp knife, then cut marshmallows into 2-inch squares or whatever size you want. I made mine pretty big, about 2 inches square, I suppose …only one marshmallow needed per cup of hot chocolate.

(I did not do this) Pour 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar into a small bowl, and roll each marshmallow in the sugar to coat. Keeps for 3 days in sealed container.

Now, if you want these for hot chocolate, PLEASE, PLEASE, after going to all this trouble for good marshmallows, DO use a GOOD hot chocolate mix! We are loving the Penzeys Hot Chocolate Mix. It's made with top ingredients and so smooth and so good! I also really like the recipe on the Hershey's Cocoa container.

Enjoy! Over and out…

Anna

 

The Weight of the World

Do the issues of the world, our country, the local community weigh on you? Do you try to figure out what you can do to help people….many people…a few people…even one person? Do you think about the people who are sleeping outside on a frigid night with nowhere to go? Do you worry about the kids whose only meals come from the school cafeterias? Do you ponder what becomes of the kids who have no toys or crayons or books at all? Do you weep for the mothers trying to protect their children from war, drugs, hunger, despair all across the world? Do you ponder all the injustice and mistreatment and pray for change? Do you worry about family and friends just barely hanging on?

Do you feel guilty for indulging, being warm and cozy, showering your kids with gifts, looking the other way, going on with your own life?

These things do weigh on me and I do feel sadness and guilt. I do want to help…everyone. And yet, sometimes it's totally overwhelming. There is so much need and hurt and despair and brokenness everywhere.

I am a Christian. To me, part of being a Christian is loving all people, regardless of whether I agree with how they live their lives or what they stand for, always giving and doing for others in any way I can for those who are struggling, whether that is through prayer, money, clothing, groceries or time and working to live my life as a beacon of hope, faith and love…basically, striving to live as Jesus did.

I am also human. So, this means that I often fail, despite my best intentions. I lose my temper and patience with those who stand for things I abhor and feel desperate to open their eyes to truth and love. I waste my money on superficial, nonessential things instead of using it for good. I forget to pray for people I intended to pray for. I pass by a person in need without offering anything because I'm not sure how to help.

And yet, I do believe that if we all love and help and support each other, we will all be better off. So, even though I will falter in my goal, I will keep trying to do more wherever I find a need.

The problem is that there is a need everywhere I turn. And I struggle with how much and when and where and who to give to. I have often said, "Lord, if you would see fit to bestow a great amount of money on me, I would be able to do so much more for so many more in need." So far, the Lord has not seen fit to do so. Instead, I do what I can with what I have as much as I can. In so doing, I hope to instill a sense of giving and serving and being merciful upon my children.

It matters not to me whether the person or people I strive to help are sinners or saints, drug addicts or alcoholics or misguided or foolish, Christians, Muslims, Jews or atheists, homeless or well off, educated or ignorant, Republican or Democrat, Independent or Libertarian, black, white, blue or purple. If it be in my power to help someone in need, I will strive to do it. I can disagree with one's actions and beliefs whether I help that person or not.

I also think that charity must start within the family. If a person giving loads of money and/or time to a foundation or nonprofit or church outreach organization fails to see and help the elderly aunt or down-on-her-luck sister or cousin or in-need-of-assistance child or neighbor, I think this person may be giving for his or her own pride and profit or is merely ignorant of the need and suffering closer to home. We must always help and love and support friends and family who are in need of mercy and love and a hot meal or a bag groceries, or a few coins too.

Let us not forget to be merciful, charitable and full of love and goodness and kindness all year round, but most especially at this time of year when we look forward to celebrating the birth of HE who embodied being merciful, charitable and full of love and goodness and kindness. Over and out…

Anna    

Shattering Glass

Last night, while standing in my kitchen, I was overcome with a flood of emotions and shed a few tears thinking about voting for a woman presidential candidate on Tuesday and all that could mean. Sure, this may seem silly or trivial to you and you may shake your head in disgust or confusion, but to this bossy girl who has never backed down from an argument with a man and NEVER thought women should be standing behind a man instead of next to or in front of a man, this is big…dare I say…YUGE!

And it's not just that it's a woman, it's this woman: Hillary Clinton. I am so proud to be voting for her tomorrow. Again, you may not understand this, but I DO like her, respect her and think she has what it takes to be president. She has been standing her ground and fighting for people for so long and NEVER giving up…EVER. Hillary has more stamina than people half her age; she amazes me! This is the kind of strong, smart, experienced woman I have dreamed of becoming president.

But I'm not here to convince you. At this late hour, you have made your decision and likely already cast your vote. No, I'm simply brimming with emotions and excitement and anxiety and maybe you are too.

So, tomorrow I'll go with my two boys and color in that little oval as my boys witness this momentous occasion, we'll get the I VOTED sticker and I might spill a few tears thinking of all the women who have come before and made crack after crack in that glass ceiling, giving me the right to vote, the strength to voice my strong opinions, the opportunity to get an education and become an attorney and the chance to vote for female candidates in races at every level of government. I can't tell you how excited I am about this!

I will wait on pins and needles and monitor polls and news reports as polls close and counts come in, and you can bet I'll be praying for our nation, our leaders and our citizens.

This is personal. I am a woman. I am a Christian. I am a mom. I support love and mercy and kindness and coming together, helping those who can't help themselves and living in harmony, regardless of differing backgrounds, opinions, religions and standing up for all peoples' rights. I refuse to succumb to an Us v. Them, hateful, fearful, antagonist, racist, misogynistic attitude.

I…we…have a lot at stake tomorrow. I know I am not alone in this flood of emotions leading up to this day. So, here's to all the women (and men) who have fought so hard for women's rights. I can't wait for that glass ceiling to shatter. Over and out…

Anna

Be a Political Person {Talking Politics with Our Kids}

I often see people post on social media, "I'm not a political person, but…" And I always want to respond, "Why not? What's wrong with being a political person?" I think what they mean is they aren't usually one to argue over political issues by posting them for all their friends to read and discuss, but I just don't see anything wrong with being a "political person." And for the record, you can call me just that, if you're so inclined.

In our house, politics is not a dirty word. In fact, political knowledge and discussions are something to be proud about…although the kids do have an approved and unapproved list of people they can discuss such politics with…the approved list is pretty short, come to think of it...

But, seriously, political issues are important and we should be discussing them in our homes and in schools. This doesn't mean taking sides and arguing and segregating based on beliefs and political party affiliations. It means learning about issues facing our elected officials, the laws and policies concerning the economy, the environment, the educational system, the poor, job opportunities within our country, relations with other countries, the military, etc., etc., etc., and the arguments on both sides.

So, at this juncture in American politics, I am thrilled to be teaching my kids at home because this means we can discuss and study any and all areas of politics. And we do. We talk about what's happening along this long campaign trail. We read articles, watch video clips and of course, check out the political parodies. We watched the debates with the boys and explained various points afterwards, but I think they have a pretty good grasp on what's what at this point.

They're looking forward to going with us to vote, as always. And I can't wait for next week when this Political Science major gets to teach a whole week on the Electoral College, the interesting elections of the past and anything and everything we can find to watch, read and learn about the election process. I'll be trying to channel my beloved Poli Sci Professor, Dr. Flavin, and his enthusiasm for all things electoral.

If we don't talk about such things at home and with our kids over the dinner table, in the car, in the midst of a "nasty" political race (sorry, I had to get it in), after the President addresses the nation, during a legislative stalemate, where will our kids get the confidence to discuss such issues? How will they understand the who and why and how of our nation's politics and our and their personal views as they grow into adults.

So, be a "political person" and talk about the processes, the difference between parties and how and why and who of local, state and federal government. Discuss your personal feelings and beliefs and where that falls within political parties. Talk about the "other side" and what they believe and why those issues are important to them. We live in a democratic society, and this cannot exist without talking and discussing the differences, the areas we can agree upon and how to make our system work for everyone. After all, a democratic society is defined as one that is run by the people, for the people and supports equal rights, freedoms of the individual, fair trials and minority views. Let's not forget that.

And remember GO VOTE! {Preferably with your kids in tow.} I actually saw someone post on social media that she usually doesn't vote, but this one is an important one so she voted…ALL ELECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT! {Sorry, I had to step up on my soap box for a minute….remember, I AM a "political person."} Over and out…

Anna

The Ups and Downs of Homeschool {A Top 10 List}

As our second year of homeschool has begun, I can now tell you my most favorite and most challenging things about my new(ish) gig. It's a lot like when my kids were younger and not in school yet and we were together almost constantly. And what I found then and what I find now is that for the most part, spending more time with my kids allows me to tolerate them more easily than when I see them less….maybe you think I should have used enjoy rather than tolerate, but most days I feel like tolerating is the best I can do…if I'm keepin' real.

So, what I'm saying is that it works. We all tolerate each other sometimes and enjoy each other's company other times. And sometimes I assign myself a timeout. Just as it is with families, in general. There are definitely some perks to homeschool and some very big challenges too. Here's what I can tell you about my experience after year one.

Top 10 Favorite Things about Homeschooling:

1. No homework struggles because there is no homework!
2. No lunches to pack
3. No early morning rushing around to get out the door…no early mornings at all. We start school mid-morning
4. We can stay in our pjs for school, if we choose, and sometimes we do
5. No standardized tests!
6. Flexible schedules for field trips, traveling and impromptu or prolonged lessons
7. Teaching subjects of our choosing: Latin and Greek roots, cursive, the Bible and lots of group discussions and group reading of a variety of subject matter and types of writing, U.S. geography, etc.
8. Our trips!
9. Watching my kids learn and use their knowledge
10. The boys get one day of lessons with my parents every week, and that is priceless

Top 10 Challenging Things about Homeschooling

1. I'm ALWAYS with my kids!
2. I never feel like I'm finished for the day – there's always more housework, school preparations and legal editing work to be done
3. Being patient with my kids
4. Staying somewhat on track with lesson plans and outside activities, etc.
   
5. Finding our place. So many friends don't homeschool. A few do, but they have for years and have their niche and each homeschooling family has its own philosophy and curriculum and schedule.
6. Accomplishing everything I want to each school day.
7. Arguing with my kids over doing math or practicing cursive, etc.
8. Keeping my kids focused
9. Making lessons interesting and relatable
10. Trying not to completely lose myself and my interests and passions

It's not always easy, but sometimes it is. Just like everything in life. Over and out…

Anna

 

Related articles

Homeschool: Year Two

Chocolate Fix {Anna's Flourless Double Chocolate Brownies}

Be a Tree

Autumn Hash {Cooking with Your Senses}

I don't excel in many areas, but I can create really good food. {My dad would say in an exaggerated thick Texas accent, "it ain't braggin' if you really done it"}

I don't use recipes for cooking, as a general rule. I do reference recipes for inspiration and enjoy reading cookbooks. For me, cooking is mostly about using my senses to know what flavors to put together and how long and how hot to cook it.

What I cook depends on the weather and what's in season, but mostly what I'm craving. And lately, I'm all about hash!

I never thought much about hash until I had the Duluth's Grill Red Flannel Hash a few years back. It was delicious and a just the kind of dish I like to make…everything in one skillet and full of veggies!

Well, I've making my own hash loosely based on the Duluth's Grill hash and it's been a hit with 3 out of the 4 humans in our home. So, I thought I'd share it with you after several people asked me for the recipe when I posted about it on Facebook.

Now, you'll have to use a bit of your own ingenuity and your own senses when it comes to the amount of salt to use or how long to cook it, etc. As I said, the way I cook is by feel and taste and intuition, which means I don't measure or time anything.

This is the best I could do for you, but I have faith in you! Just trust your gut instincts and keep tasting for flavor and texture to determine when it's ready.

Autumn Hash (This is what I'm calling it because it's fall, but really it's for all year long)

4 medium potatoes (whatever type you have or like best is fine), coarsely chopped

4 medium sweet potatoes, coarsely chopped

1 medium onion, coarsely chopped

1 large red or yellow or orange bell pepper or any sweet or spicy pepper you prefer, coarsely chopped

1 large bunch of kale, coarsely chopped

Some sage and rosemary, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

Salt and pepper to taste (my preference is the Himalayan Pink Salt and Rainbow Pepper in grinders from Trader Joe's)

Olive oil

Heat large skillet on medium high, add olive oil to coat pan.

Add chopped garlic to pan. Then, add remaining chopped veggies, with exception of kale and herbs. Salt and pepper, fairly generously.

Continue cooking veggies on medium high, stirring and scraping down pan from time to time.

After about 10 minutes add the kale and chopped herbs. Sprinkle with salt again.

When potatoes begin to get a nice brown crust and onions are translucent and kale is wilted, scrape bottom of pan and then add ½ to 1 cup of water – just enough water to cover bottom of pan and come half way up veggies.

Cover pan and continue cooking until water is gone and potatoes are tender. Taste. Add more salt or pepper, if needed.

The key to great tasting veggies is to salt throughout the cooking process…little bits at a time. And keep tasting
your dish as it cooks. Trust your instincts.

This hash is terrific eaten hot or cold right out of the fridge the next day. It's a great side to eggs or meat. Our favorite way to eat hash is with "jiggly" eggs, bacon and toast. If you have leftovers make a frittata with it or a cheesy veggie soup with it {It's highly doubtful there will be leftovers, but just in case}. Enjoy!

Over and out…

Anna

Mail Order Fashion {Stitch Fix Experience}

As I posted a few weeks ago, as a busy woman, I have a hard time finding the time it takes to devote to shopping and putting together cute, fashionable outfits…that fit well…without holes or stains. So, I finally broke down and decided to give Stitch Fix a try.

Here's out it works:

1. You fill out some information online about your body size and shape, your style likes and dislikes.
2. Pay $20 styling fee (this amount applies to any clothing you decide to keep)
3. Choose when/how often you want to get a box.
4. Then, "your stylist" will put together a box of 5 items to be sent to you. You could get accessories like jewelry, shoes, a purse, a scarf or even outerwear and a combination of shirts, sweaters, pants, a dress, jeans.
5. Once you receive the box, along with some style notes and ideas of what to put together, you can try on and decide what to keep and what to return.
6. Once you're ready to return the rejected clothing, simply put them in the postage paid, return address labeled bag, seal and drop in the mail box.
7. Login to your account and check out, paying for what you want to keep. If you send everything back you'll pay the $20 styling fee, but if you keep anything the $20 fee will be deducted from your total. Additionally, if you choose to keep all of the items, you get a 25% discount on the total.

It's a simple way to add a few trendy, cool, updated, fancy pieces to your wardrobe. The downside is that the prices are fairly high – at least to me. But then again, I like a really good deal and hate to pay much for clothes. However, I will pay more for a few pairs of really great jeans or a versatile jacket, etc. So, I was willing to give it a try.

You can add a note to your stylist if there is something particular you want or don't want. I asked for jeans and fitted (not loose/boxy) shirts…she somewhat delivered on the first box.

Overall, after receiving to fixes, I would give the whole experience 2 stars out of 5. It would be 1 star but I did get some jeans I really like.

My first box was supposed to arrive on a Friday. We were leaving town the following Tuesday, but I didn't think there would be a problem since the package was to arrive four days before we left.

Alas, the package did not actually show up until Tuesday. I was tracking it so I asked a neighbor to pick it up from our door since we were already long gone by the time it got to our home. We were gone for 9 days and apparently you are supposed to return the unwanted items within 3 days of receiving the box. Fortunately, I was able to get an extension on this timeline since it arrived late and I was not there to receive the box. Even still, I was a little irritated by the delay.

I was dismayed when I opened the box and found several loose, boxy tops – exactly what I said I did not want. However, I tried to keep my mind open and tried everything on. I looked at my style notes, but didn't find them very helpful.

I was excited to see jeans and they were from my favorite brand – Kut Above the Kloth – but then I was disappointed when I tried them on because they were too big. This brand has some stretch to the denim and so they do need to start off pretty snug and these were loose when I put them on. This was another point that irritated me about the stylist because it's something I mentioned in my note to her regarding the size of jeans I needed.

However, a friend who has been doing Stitch Fix for a while now told me I could request a different size and if they have it they will send it. I did that and was able to get the right size! And I love the jeans.

I ended up keeping the jeans (the correct size) and one blouse. I'm not a huge fan of the bright coral color, but I do like the cut of it. It has a structured, fitted style that I asked for that accentuates my curves.

The sweater was soft and comfy, but it looked like I could have been wearing a maternity top because it was large and loose. I did like the neckline and the sleeves, but it was marked at $38 and I didn't think it was worth that even if I had liked it.

I really liked the colors of the pink plaid top and again, I liked the neckline, but it was loose and boxy and too short through the torso. This one was marked at $58, but I could have gotten something similar at Target for about $20.

The black jacket could have been cute, but it's really not my style and I didn't have shirts to pair with it and the sleeves were way too long. Plus, for $88 I need to REALLY LOVE it, and I didn't.

I just got the second fix and I was totally disappointed. I sent it all back. The colors and styles were all wrong. And they sent me a pair of canvas flats- it's almost November and I live in Minnesota. I'm looking at boots for the next 5 to 6 months. 

So, there you have it. It's a total crapshoot whether you'll like any or all of it. I did talk to a couple of friends who have done it for a while and have loved some fixes, been pretty happy with others and very unhappy with a few. They encouraged me to try it one more time and request a different stylist again. I don't have one scheduled yet, and I am deciding whether to try it one more time. 

One Note: I did search online for these brands and styles I received and I think that the labels are creating customized style names/lines for Stitch Fix, which makes it difficult to find and order the same piece of clothing for less money.

If you want to try it out, you can use my code to get started: stitchfix.com/referral/9160666 

The jeans were worth it though…Over and out…

Anna