Educational Diagnostic Prescriptive Services (EDUDPS)

Educational Diagnostic Prescriptive Services (EDUDPS)

~Roots & Fruits~
~Career Planning~
~Write With the Best~

Educational Diagnostic Prescriptive Services is a website that offers homeschool curriculum at an affordable cost.  They specilize in productsfor dyslexic children although all of their products will work for any child.  I personally think that the name of the company sounds a bit scary and confusing, but I have been impressed with their products.  I was given these three products to try:

Roots & Fruits
eBook~$14.98 **but is on sale right now for $11.25!
Printed pages no binding~$17.48
Comb binded~$19.98

What a fun name for this curriculum!  When  Ben and I did the first lesson he understood what the "roots" were but wanted to know what the "fruits" were.  I explained that the fruits were the words which had the roots in it, you have to have roots to make fruits!  This curriculum is a vocabulary study the Latin and Greek roots in English form.  There are 673 different roots and prefixes.  It can be used by kindergartners as well as middle to high school students.  This will help your child in SAT and ACT exams as well as understanding the meaning of words.  We have really enjoyed this and look forward to continuing with it throughout the year.

Write With the Best Vol. 1
eBook~$19.95**but is on sale right now for $14.95!
Printed pages no binder~$22.45
3 ring binder~$24.95

This curriculum is geared toward 3rd through 12th graders.  Volume 1 is meant for an 18 week run with volume 2 taking another 18 weeks.  The set would be enough for a full year.  If you want to you can use volume 1 for the entire year and use volume 2 for the next year~ if your child is new to writing or struggles a bit then this would be the better way to go.
What I liked the most about this curriculm is that it takes it in chunks and is not overwhelming.  Both of my boys struggle a little bit with writing and sometimes things we have tried in the past was too much all at once.  There is also a daily guide to follow.  I also appreciated the whys behind good writing.  I asked Ben why he liked the books he read.  He mentioned that they were descriptive.  I told him yes, being descriptive is important in writing.  We talked about how the sentance, "The cat sat on her bed." compared to "The fat, fluffy, long haired white Persian cat nestled on her soft, warm, pink bed."  WOW what a difference, can you see what the first one looks like in your mind?  What about the second one?  I never would have had that conversation with him without this curriculum to guide me a long.

Career Guide
eBook~$34.95**but is on sale right now for $26.20!
Soft cover~$39.95

Ever wonder what your middle school or high school student might want to be when he/she "grows up?"  Me too.  I was so excited to be chosen to review this product.  My son, Sonny, is in the 8th grade this year.  He changes what he wants to "be" every few months.  The Career Guide has four self guided assessments for your child to complete.  This will help you determine the correct classes to teach, jobs to work, or colleges to look into.  This can keep your child focused when it comes to college~ no more wasting time (and money!) taking classes to see if you like it or not!  Sonny had a hard time answering some of the questions but he really liked it.  He is just an indecisive kiddo.


I was impressed with the curriculum I received but not the form.  It was sent to me in an electronic download.  You are allowed to save it to your computer, but it does not come in adobe.  The program only allows you to print twice.  The customer service is great because my printer jammed and I tried to print again and it would not go through so I had lost both of my prints and had to contact them to recieve it again.  Also, ifyou do not save it within a certain amount of time to your computer it is locked and you can not open it up.  I feel that if you purchase a product it should not be such a hassle to open and print it.  I would suggest spending a few more dollars and have the print form sent to you.
On the website there are also free downloads for a portion of the above books, so you can see in this is something that will work for your children.
Do not be intimidated by the name Educational Diagnostic Prescriptive Services.  These products really are wonderful. 
I have been wishing for a product that can help my children improve their writing.  Writing is such an important part of education and life that I knew I needed to find something that would work.  Thank you to EDUDPS for creating your products and for giving TOS a chance to review your products! 
Click here for more TOS reviews of these products.

Read and Share Toddler Bible

Read and Share Toddler Bible
by Gwen Ellis
Thomas Nelson Publishing

When I first opened up the book my first thought was how cute the illustrations were. I knew that my daughter Julianna (age 4) would like it.  This book is geared toward very young children as the stories are very short in length.  There are 40 stories in total.  The stories are all aapted from the Bible.  There is a DVD that come with the book that contains animated versions of the stories from the book.  It runs 60 minutes in length.  Julianna and my son, Ben~8yrs~ both watched in on Sunday after church and enjoyed it.

There was one story in the book and DVD that bothered me a bit because of my beliefs it was the story of Adam and Eve.  The story was portrayed with a "ssssneaky snake."  I have taught my children that it is in fact Satan tempting Eve.  My daughter said she liked the story of Eve with the snake the best, so then I had to discuss with her about the snake etc.. 

Other then this it is a really cute book.  It is small enough for little hands to carrry and look at.

The Potluck Club Cookbook

by Linda Evans Shepherd & Eva Marie Everson
Revell Publishing

If you have read any of The Potluck Club books then you will love this cookbook. If you have never read any of The Potluck Club books then you will still love it. so, either way you would get a lot out of this great cookbook. My son, Ben, who is 8, loves to cook. We like to look at cookbooks and see what we would like to try. There were so many in this cookbook that we did not know where to start.
I do wish their were pictures of some of the dishes, if not all. It would have been lots of fun if Linda and Eva were in some of them. I think it would have made it more personable, kind of like their books. But, of course if you ask my friend, Tami, she will just say that I like cookbooks with pictures. I do not tend to buy a cookbook if there are no pictures so I am not sure I would have picked it if I was not sent it. However I am glad they did.
Throughout the book there are personal notes and tidbits from the authors. This makes it enjoyable to read too.
Don't know what to make? Need easy down to earth recipes? Get this cookbook~ NOW!!
"Available September 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."

Are you still not sure? Try one of these recipes from the cookbook:

Grandmother’s Coconut Chess Pie
2 eggs
1 Tbsp. flour (should be heaping)
1/8 tsp. salt
¼ Cup white sugar
¾ Cup white Karo syrup
1 tsp. vanilla
unbaked pie shell
¼ lb. butter
12-14 oz. coconut (can or bag)

Beat eggs well and set aside. In mixing bowl blend flour, salt, and sugar, then add eggs. Next add syrup and vanilla, beat until well mixed. Pour mixture into unbaked pie shell. Slice butter into thick slices and cover top of pie. Sprinkle coconut on top of pie and bake for about 1 hour in 300 degree oven or until firm and brown.
Serves 8

Linda: “I inherited this recipe from my Grandmother Evans. It’s one of the best pies I’ve ever tasted!” (Page 83)


Corn Pudding au Gratin

1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
2 Tbsp. flour
1 cup diced cheese
1/8 tsp. black pepper
2 Tbsp. margarine
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup buttered bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine corn, flour, cheese and pepper; mix well. Add melted margarine and well-beaten eggs. Warm milk and add to mixture. Pour into 1 ½ quart casserole pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Cook in oven until pudding begins to set, then sprinkle buttered bread crumbs over the top and reduce heat to 325 and bake until firm. If bread crumbs are not sufficiently brown when pudding is firm, turn to broil briefly. Cooking time is about 30 – 40 minutes.

Eva: “This recipe reheats nicely.” (Page 169)

Linda’s Chicken Tortilla Casserole

2 ½ Tbsp. chopped onions
¼ cup butter
3 Tbsp. flour
1 ½ cups milk
¾ cup chicken broth
1 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. jalapeno peppers
1 ½ cups chopped canned tomatoes (stewed)
3 cups cubed chicken, cooked
½ cup shredded cheese
12 tortillas, cut into 1-inch strips

Sauté onions in butter, then add flour and cook until mixture is bubbly. Stir in milk and broth gradually. Stir in salt, peppers, and tomatoes.
In casserole dish, layer chicken, cheese, then strips of tortillas. Pour sauce over layers then sprinkle casserole with cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Serve hot.
Serves 6-8.

Linda: “You can’t go wrong with this tasty dish. It’s a potluck crowd favorite.” (Page 130)

A Taste of Fame

The Potluck Club Book Two
by Linda Evans Shepherd & Eva Marie Everson
Revell Publishing

 

Even though this is the second book in the series, it is a great stand alone book. I think reading the first one will give you a deeper understanding of the characters in the book, but is not needed to read this book.

There are several women who are apart of the Potluck Catering Club. In this book they are accepted onto a television reality catering show. These ladies must go to New York and work their magic for viewers all over the country. Of course everyone has their own personal issues which get in the way along the way. Each of the ladies has to work through issues in the book. They try to stay down to earth and good friends while the TV world is doing their best to tear them apart.
I really enjoyed this book and am anxious to read the first in the series and anymore they decide to write. I found the ladies easy to get to know and in almost all of them I saw a piece of me. I rooted for them to win the money and title along with the rest of their church congregation! When you read this book you will want to read all the books by these authors!

"Available September 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."

Love Has a Face

Love Has a Face
by Michele Perry
Chosen Books

Not very often to I come across a book I do not finish.  This was one.  The first two chapters were very interesting, but in the middle of chapter 3 it got really weird.  The author started to talk about her falling on the ground and not being able to move for 4-5 hours because she was caught up with the Spirit and a lot of what she was saying did not make much sense.  I felt really uneasy finishing this book so I did not.  Of course do not take my word for it, try reading it yourself.  It is about a woman who goes to Sudan to open a home for children, a missionary experience of sorts. 

Goodnews Express Series Volume

Goodnews Express Series The Birthday Gift   
by Passkeys Foundation

Passkeys Foundation has character building procusts for children and adults alike.  We were sent one of the Goodnews Express books to review. The Goodnews Express is a series of 4 books geared toward children ages 3-5~  The Cheerful Grump (Cheerfulness), Thanks, But No Thanks (Thankfulness), The Special Wish (Friendship), and The Birthday Gift (Sharing).  Each of the books sells for $7.50 or the set for $20.  Also, each of the books comes with a CD.

We were sent The Birthday Gift to review.  I read this not only to Julianna (4) and Ben (8) but also to my day care kiddos (ages 1-4).  They all were interested in the story and loved the colorful illustrations.

It is hard to find books these days that have good moral messages in them.  This books is just one of 4 that teach your children good character traits.  I loved the message in the book we reviewed, but do not just take my word for it check out what other TOS crew members had to say about the series.

Journey Through Learning

Journey Through Learning
Lapbooks~

Reptiles                                                                      
Amphibians
Autumn
Desert
The Parables of a King

I guess I am not a fun mom, because before we recieved these lapbooks to review we had never done a lapbook at home.  We were sen 5 different lapbooks to choose from (see above) I let Ben choose the one he wanted to do, I was hoping he would choose Autumn because I know a bit about that~ not so much the others.  Of course he chose Reptiles. 
We hve not finished the lapbook as of yet because we are going slow, but when we do I will post pictures.
These lapbboks come with answer guide, are color coded for help in putting the lapbook together, and in color!
Has any of your kiddos wanted to know what turtles eat or why snakes can be poisonous?  This lapbook will answer them for you.  I always thought that lapbooks were all fluff and not very useful, but these are a creative way to do a unit study on any topic.
I went to the website to see what other lapbooks they have.  Journey Through Learning has almost anythng you could ever want for lapbooking topics!  There are topics on science and social studies plus more.  Check it out and see which ones you need to amke your homeschol fun!  The lapooks come a few different ways.  The first is the say I received them~ in a download format, these run about $13 each.  You can also order a CD rom for $14 or you can orderthe printed full color version for $21. (some go for $20).
In my opinion, I think it is a bit pricey for this, but I am not that familiar with lapbooks and the cost. 

Please read what some of my crew mates say about this product here.

American's Heritage~An Adventure in Liberty

American's Heritage~an adventure in liberty
The American Heritage Education Foundation, Inc.


The American Heritage Education Foundation "AHEF is a non-profit, non-partisan educational foundation dedicated to the understanding and teaching of America's factual and philosophical heritage to promote constructive citizenship and Freedom, Unity, Progress, and Responsibility among our students and citizens.

AHEF accomplishes this patriotic mission by writing, producing, and distributing FREE K-12 lesson plans to teachers, students, and families in all 50 states and through additional initiatives, programs, and partnerships."

America's Heritage: An Adventure in Liberty is a K-12 teacher lesson plan resource. When we received the CD in the mail I was so excited. We are learning about American History this year and this fit in nicely. There are grades K-12 on the CD, so it is easy to teach American Heritage to all of your children using the same program.

All lessons are based on the themes: unity, freedom, progress, and responsibility. What I really like about this program is it does not have the children spit out facts, but hlpes the students think, explore, and understand the importance of liberty in United States history.

Price: CD Rom is FREE
Binder is $19.50 per level.

Here is what other TOS crew members thought about it as well.

Nutrition 101: Choose Life

Nutrition 101: Choose Life
by Growing Healthy Homes



We all try to teach our children proper nutrition.  As a homeschooling mom I hope that by eating all meals at home that we are teaching our children correct principles.  We also want them to learn about how their bodies function.  I have tried to find a curriculum that encompassed both aspects but was also fun and enjoyable.  We were sent Nutrition 101: Choose Life by Growing Healthy Homes to review.  This program is fantastic.  It is biblically based with scriptures to aid in the discussion.  We are LDS so we also have the World of Wisdom to incorporate into our discussion of nutrition as well.  We have learned so much in just the short time we have had it.  It is a full curriculum so we were not able to get through the entire thing, but what we have done is great. 

This nutrition program comes in two forms, CD-ROM, $79.95 and a printed book form, $99.95 or can order the combo which is both the CD-ROM and the book for $129.95.  We received the ebook to review.  There are six units and 448 pages.  Each unit is broken up into chapters.  There are recipes for new dishes to try, websites to go to, discussion questions to talk about, activites, and fun colorful pictures.

My son Ben, (almost 9years), was reading in Unit 2 (digestion) that it is not good for you to drink ice water with your meals, because it shocks your stomach and hinders digestion.  Well, I love ice water.  I tend to drink more water if I drink it with ice.  Ben is a great helper and gets me my ice water when I ask, so one day at dinner I asked him if he would get me a large glass of ice water for me.  He comes back to the table with a large glass of room temperture water and informs me that ice water is not good for me, which leads us into a discussion on why etc...  Brian, my husband thought that was funny that Ben was telling ME what was best.  I am not sure that I want him to learn anything ever again!!  Just kidding.  I love it that he is learning and teaching me as well.  We also made guacamole from the brain unit.  We learned that avacados have healthy fats that are good for our brain function.

Nutrition 101: Choose Life is a bit expensive but you will not have to buy another program for nutrition and human body again.  It is good for all ages, there are enough activites and discussion questions that you can make it as easy or as hard as you want.  I encourage you to go to their website and watch the video on the program and to check out the other TOS bloggers and read their reviews.

An Eye For An Eye

by Irene Hannon
Revell Baker Publishing

This book #2 in the Heroes of Quantico series. Unlike the last book I read that was in series this is a stand alone book. Each book in the series of three tells a story of one of three friends. This story is about Mark Sanders. Sanders is an FBI agent. he has recently been shot and is recovering both physically and mentally away from Quantico. One day as he is jogging in the park he comes across another jogger, a familiar one.
Emily Lawson is also jogging in the park that same Saturday morning. Emily and Mark were teenage sweethearts. Neither kept in touch with the other. However their reunion in the park is cut short when they are shot at. But, which of them was the target?
There is a lot of intrigue in this book. Every few chapters Hannon reveals a bit about the shooter in the book as we read about him. The book reveals how the FBI and law enforcement work out these types of incidents.
The big question in the book besides who the shooter is and will he try to kill one of them again is Will Emily and Mark fall in love again? and is the FBI too much of a dangerous job for Emily to deal with Mark having? Guess you will have to read this book that I give 4 out of five starts to in order to get those questions answered yourself.
There are many times in our lives when we feel we can not deal with trials etc... I saw myself a little bit in Emily and how frightened she was in loving and losing another man like her first husband.
Available September 2009 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Studypod

Studypod
by Genio LLC



What is a Studypod?

A Studypod is a fabulous innovation that I wished they had when I was in high school and college! It is essentially a book holder. It holds heavy textbooks as well as papers and paperback books. We even used it to hold a large songbook. It opens like a book so is able to hold a book open to two pages. We have another brand of book holder, but it can not hold an open book or a large heavy textbook like the Studypod can. The Studypod holds not only books,papers, and music, but a calculator too!

I LOVE this product. I keep thinking how I wish I had one during all of those studying sessions. It would have relieved a lot of back and neck strain. I am glad we have one so that my children will not have to go through what I did with neck pan. I like that it is lightweight and easily folds up to store in a drawer or backpack. The Studypod comes in three colors black, (which is the one we were sent), blue, and pink. The price is about right in my opinion. It is $19.95 for one. When you buy two or more they are $16.95. This would be a great gift for a high school or college student. Of course it is a wonderful gift for any homeschooler as well. Use it as an easel for painting for the little ones as well. this product has so many uses that it would be a great gift for nearly anyone. I just want to thank Studypod for sending me this product to review and for inventing it in the first place!!

If you want to see other reviews for this product please go to TOS blogger reviews

A Dream to Call My Own Brides of Gallatin County #3

By Tracie Peterson
Bethany House Publishing

A Dream to Call My Own, is the third book in a series. I was sent only this book to review. In my opinion this book is not a stand alone. It was really a continuation of what happened in the earlier two books. This made it confusing and hard to understand at times. I still liked the book, but was also disappointed that I had not read the previous two books. I think I would enjoy the whole series.
Aside from that fact, it was still a good book with good morals. Lacey Gallatin is the third daughter in the Gallatin family. Her father was killed two years previous and she is determined to find his killer. her two sisters are married and deliver their first children in this book. Lacey is in love with Dave, the local law enforcement, but is unsure if she really is. during this book she wrestles with that fact and tries to decide if she will marry him.
The truth comes out in this book about who killed her father and justice is served. i suggest you read the first two before you read this one. I know when I have a bit of time I am going to go back and read the first two!

Stray Affections

by Charlene Ann Baumbich
Waterbrook Publishing

Cassandra Higgins is a young mom of four boys. She still struggles with the suicide of her father when she was a young girl. Her mom, "Bad Betty" and her do not get a long. Not only does she have all of this on her plate but she discovers a snow globe at her annual shopping trip at a collector's convention, that sparks her interest. Does this snow globe hold the answers to all of her problems? But how can it? It is just a snow globe isn't it? Cassandra not only finds answers she did not know she was looking for but also healing.
I enjoyed this book. It has a bit of intrigue in it that is just enough to make you wanting to read just another chapter. I am not sure that I could relate personally to any of the people in the book, but the book helped me think about what might be holding me back from my dreams and desires. Take a leap of faith and go read this book today!

Fearless

Fearless
by Max Lucado
Thomas Nelson Publishing

Does fear run you life? Should it? With the day and age we live in, there are many things that we fear~the economy, losing our income, swine flu, nuclear war, wars, death, etc... I guess it is no wonder that we do fear the world we live in to some extent.
After reading this book I have pondered fear. Do I not believe in a Father in Heaven? Then why do I fear? Max Lucado writes that we should have faith in God and not have fear. there is no need to fear. Jesus Christ states many times in the Bible not to have fear~just believe in Him.
When we trust in Him we will have peace and come to an understanding of the fear the world knows. We must trust in our Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ. They know us the best, they are in "charge." Our object in life is to return to our Heavenly Father, fear will keep us from having the faith we need to trust Him.
There were places in the book that I disagreed with on a religious basis. My beliefs are a little different then Lucado's, however the book had so much good in it that it was easy to overlook. It is a simple to read book. Each chapter deals with a different fear and guides us to let go of that fear. I know that we as a society let fear override our life with worrying and carrying on about things we can not do anything about. We need to trust in God and what he has for us and let go of our fear and become Fearless.

Fools Rush In

By Janice Thompson
Revell Baker Publishing

Bella's family is crazy and zany but very loving. Her parents have run a wedding business and recently turned it over to Bella to run. Her ideas for the business are not only different but may cause her family to lose it. She finds herself plain and not pretty and is worried that she will become an old maid. She has just recently ended a three year relationship with a self centered man. When Bella is desperate to find a deejay to work a wedding in two weeks will she discover not only a deejay but the man of her dreams as well? She worries that he will not like her family, does she have need to?
This book was a hoot. I loved Bella's family. Fools Rush In is not your typical love story. It has a lot of family dimensions, fun, and twists. Get your copy today!

The Old Schoolhose Magazine only $7.95!!

Subscribe to The Old Schoolhouse™ Magazine for only $7.95!


Homeschooling is a Labor of Love, and the Old Schoolhouse™ Magazine is celebrating your hard work as a parent by putting their one-year print subscriptions on sale!
For a very limited time, you can subscribe or renew for $7.95! (US only). International customers can subscribe to the digital edition for only 7.95!

You can buy a gift sub for friends, too!
To gift a subscription:
1. Go to the one-year subscription page (uS only)
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page.
3. Enter the name, address, email, and phone information for each recipient.
4. click "Add this to my cart".
5. The information will display in your cart and simply proceeed to check out.

There are only 2000 of these available, and they are going quickly! Your subscription begins with their Fall Issue.
If you live in an international location, you can subscribe to their digital edition for only $7.95!
It's the same great content as their print magazine, except it is instant and interactive!

Here are the two links:http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_176_181&products_id=12261http://www.theoldschoolhousestore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_178_185&products_id=2330

The Frontiersman's Daughter

The Frontiersman's Daughter
by Laura Frantz
Revell Baker Publishing

The more books I read the more picky I become. I want to say though that I loved this book. There were so many twists and turns and unexpected happenings that I really could not tell you what would happen next.
Lael Click is the daughter of a famous frontiersman. He had been captured by the Shawnee Indians when she was a girl. She lives in the Kentucky settlement her father founded years ago. She is a young girl at the beginning of the story. She faces many trials, including the Indians, the other settlers, and even her own family. Lael will have to find where she belongs and what her view of the world tells her. When an aristocratic doctor comes to the settlement will she put what she feels her life will be aside and help the doctor or will she leave everything she has ever known and go to live with Captain Jack, the Shawnee Indian chief? You'll have to read the book to find out!

Maverick Books

*Hank the Cowdog Tornado Game
*Hank the Cowdog Book: The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse
*CD~ Tales and Tunes from Hank the Cowdog: Story Excerpts from 10 books plus 9 Original Songs
Maverick Books

We had never heard of Hank the Cowdog before we were sent these products to review. WOW! What fun and hilarious stories. We are now fans of Hank.

Tornado Game
The first product we reviewed was the Tornado Game, $12.99. My boys had it out of the package before I could blink. They were so excited! We played it right away. They even took it to the doctor's office later that week to play in the waiting area. It is a travel game so it easily fit in my purse. All the pieces fit inside the board and folds in half. It is great for the car or for going to the park. The game reminds me a bit of Trouble, only with a spinner instead of the popper in the middle. The object is to get your color coded pieces to your "home." The pieces include a buzzard, Hank, and Drover. It comes with a cassette tape of an excerpt from the book. It is fun to listen to while playing the game.

It was a little bit too long for me but the boys liked it. I think to make it shorter we could either take one of the pieces out of play, or not send players home when you landed on the same spot.

CD
This CD is such fun and at $3 each it is affordable as well. It gives excerpts from 10 different Hank adventures with 9 original songs.. We loved hearing the voice of Hank and Drover. We listened to it one afternoon, it was nice to listen to a few stories on CD, it gave us a desire to want to read the stories in their entirety. We also enjoyed the silly songs that came on the CD.

The Case of the One-Eyed Killer Stud Horse

This book was a riot. We are still quoting our favorite part~when Drover is dreaming and saying all of these hilarious things in his sleep. Hank sure does get himself in a mess sometimes. He knew he should not eat the bacon grease but did that stop him? No, and he got really sick and made the rancher's wife Sally mad as well. I had a lot of fun reading the book out loud to my children in various voices. We enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more about Hank and Drover. We can not wait to read more about Hank the Cowdog's adventures.
You can purchase any of the above products plus lots more at their website.

Quarter Mile Math Software

Quarter Mile Math
Levels1, 2, and 3 Bundle Deluxe Version
Barnum Software

Does your child need to build confidence in his/her math skills? Do you want him/her to excel and boost their math performance? Quarter Mile Math is your answer. This award willing program is used in all of Sylvan learning centers in the US and Canada. The program covers Kindergarten math up through pre-algebra.
Are you asking your self, what is Quarter Mile Math all about? Let me tell you. Quarter Mile Math is a self competitive program. The program has two different designs to choose from; one is the race car race and the other is the horse racing (no riders and only in a field~ they do not promote gambling horse racing). Children can choose with design they would like to play. This program improves their mental math. To start the child answers a math problem according to their level. In order for the race to go faster, you have to answer more questions. It is a fun way to learn math facts.
My son Ben, 8, is advanced in math for his grade level. This program reinforced what he already knew and he was able to advance levels as much as he wanted. Sonny, 13, finished pre-algebra last year. The fun game also keeps his interest to reinforce the math he has learned.
There are two different versions of Quarter Mile Math to choose from. You are able to choose which one will suit your needs:

Deluxe Version:

All products in line. K-9th grade.
Additional student tracking system for use with more then one child.
Only $2.95 per month for the family, $19.95 per year, or $34.95 for two years.

Standard Version:

6 different math programs to choose from.
One time purchase.
Prices vary form $39.95~ $89.95 depending on which program you choose.

Right now for all of my Blog readers Quarter Mile Math is giving a discount of $5 off any program! Use the code 7K7A7 for your discount!

Thank you Quarter Mile Math!!

Back to School Fiction Tour

Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love by Beth Patillo
The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Rose House by Tina Ann Forkner
Waterbrook Publishing


Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love

Six ladies of Sweetgum get together once a month for discussion on a book and to see each one's finished knitting project assigned for that month. These ladies come from all walks of life and are of varying ages. The theme of the year for their book discussions is love stories. Each of the ladies is going through her own path of love, whether new or old. One by one their stories are told. New love, rekindled love, and first love, their stories are sweet and bittersweet alike.

This is the second book in the series, however I did not read the first book and did not feel lost. Although I do want to go back and read the first book as it tells the story of Eugenie and how she became Hannah's foster mother.

I enjoyed how Beth Patillo incorporates all generations and backgrounds into this story. If you are in the mood for a good book, check this one out.



The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper

Eugenia "Gennie" Cooper is a pampered wealthy girl from New York. After reading of her favorite heroine from her novels she wants to have a great adventure before she is to wed. Soon the opportunity arises for her to go to the Wild West~ Colorado. She is to become a governess for a young girl, the daughter of an owner of a silver mine~Daniel Beck. Set in the 1880's Gennie has to learn quickly that the Wild West is not what she thought it would be. How is she going to be a governess of an out of control girl when she only plans to be in Colorado for a month, just long enough for an "adventure."

Gennie soon finds herself supposedly "engaged" to Daniel in order to help him out. She finds herself trying to decide if her future lies in Colorado with Daniel and his daughter, or back in the high society of New York. I am not going to tell you what she decides to do, but you will find out when you read this fun book.



Rose House

Four years ago, Lillian stood at the Rose House amidst her anguish. She had just lost her husband and children in a tragic accident. Today she returns and finds a painting of herself in the local gallery, of her at the Rose House capturing the sadness and despair she was feeling that day four years ago. Who had painted her in a very private moment? The painting was given to the gallery anonymously. The painting was not for sale.
Not only is Lillian still getting beyond her grief, but now someone has been watching her. Her relationship with her only sibling, a sister, is nearly nonexistent. Will the Rose House bring her solace as it did on that day long ago? Will she be able to repair her relationship with her sister? Will she find love again? Did you think I would tell you? Not a chance, read it yourself to solve these mysteries.
This was a great book. It has a lot of unexpected twists, especially the end~ I never would have guessed! I could literally not put this book down until I finished it. I kept it in my car and purse so I could read it in little snipets of time I came across. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.

If you want to purchase any of these wonderful books go to the Random House website.

Sense & Sensibility Patterns

Sense & Sensibility Patterns

Girls' Edwardian Apron Pattern & Apron E-class

What a wonderful product I had the chance to review! I have looked at Sense and Sensibility website before and drooled over the gorgeous dresses from times past. I never bought a pattern because I thought it would be way too complicated to complete. I was wrong! The Girls' Edwardian Apron was pretty simple to put together. I LOVED the e-class that I received with it. The e-class gave me step by step instructions with pictures and Jennie explaining each step. This was such a big help for when I was having trouble with something; I could just go click on the e-class and forward to where she was explaining the part I was having trouble with.

Seamstresses can purchase either e-patterns or paper patterns from Sense & Sensibility. I received an e-pattern to review. The e-pattern is instantly ready to download, whereas the traditional pattern you have to wait until the mail brings it to you. With the e-pattern you just save it to your computer and print the pattern at your convenience! What I like about this feature is that if you loose the pattern or tear it then you still have the pattern saved and can reprint it.

The one issue I had with the e-pattern is that I really wished that Jennie would have numbered each piece on the printed sheets; then have a thumbnail showing where each number is so that it is easier to put the pattern together. It took me such a long time to put the pattern together, not knowing where each piece needs to go. I would have loved it to take less time so I could get to sewing the apron.

Jennie also teaches how to make your own bias. I chose not to make my own but to buy the prepackaged bias. If I wanted to make bias, she teaches it so well in her e-class. It does take more time to complete the apron when making your own binding and that is the reason I chose to purchase pre-made bias.

The Girls' Edwardian Apron pattern includes sizes 2-14 in one envelope or download. The pattern is pretty forgiving as well. This would also be a good pattern to do if you are teaching someone to sew or learning to sew yourself.

The Girls' Edwardian Apron traditional paper pattern sells for $12.95 which comes in an envelope with complete illustrated instructions. The e-pattern sells for $7.95. The basic e-class for the apron is $19.95; if you would like to buy the pattern and the class together it sells for $24.95.

Take a minute to browse the website for Sense & Sensibility. There is a pattern for a matching adult size pattern for the apron as well as other period clothing patterns.

Grapevine Studies

Grapevine Studies Biblical Curriculum
Esther ebook
Biblical Feasts & Holy Days ebook

(Hardcopies are also available)

We had the opportunity to review and try Esther and Biblical Feasts and Holy Days ebooks. They each are multi-level. We used it with a 4 year old, 8 year old, & 13 year old. Each of the ebooks have a teacher's edition and a student edition. Esther has 7 lessons. Teacher's edition is $10.95 for the ebook. Biblical Feasts and Holy Days has 13 lessons. Teacher's edition is $12.95 and the student edition is $14.95, these are for ebooks. You can use one lesson each day or one lesson a week. It is versatile, that is what I like about this curriculum; if you want to study a bit more it is simple to stretch the lessons over several days. Grapevine Studies' primary author, Dianna, is a homeschooling mom of four graduates.
Grapevine Studies Biblical curriculum is based mainly on using stick figure drawing in order for the children to retain Bible stories and passages better. I am not a very good artist and I was a little worried I would have to come up with the pictures for my children to copy. Well, I was concerned for nothing; the teacher's edition not only comes with the scripture references and paraphrased narrative to read to your child, but with samples of each of the stick drawn pictures they need to draw.
My 8 year old liked this curriculum the most. He likes to draw. He also wanted to draw his stick figures the way he wanted to and not copy what was pictured. My 13 year old also enjoyed this curriculum. He enjoys art and drawing. He wanted to just copy the sample. My 4 year old daughter followed along and did her best to draw her own portrayal of the pictures. Grapevine is great for children to use their creativity.
Each of the lessons have several verses or chapters to read aloud or paraphrase to your child. If you are uncomfortable teaching the Bible their is narrative you can say to your child so you do not need to be a scholar of the Bible to teach your children.
Okay, so you are probably wondering tell me more, right? Well, this is how we did it. I printed the lessons for each of my children so they would each have their own copy. Each lesson is broken down into small bites. I read the actual verse for that section out of the Bible, then I read the paraphrased narrative. We had some discussion so that each of my kiddos understood. Then they drew their stick figure picture. You can then go on to the next section of the lesson or be done for the day and do the next section the next day. It is really workable no matter how much attention your child has at one time. I would say each section of the lessons takes about 10 minutes or less depending on how much you spend on it. I do think it is a bit expensive though for what you get. I wish that the ebooks came with both teacher and student books. Of course it is still a good program for ages 5-13.
Drawing, listening, and reading gives children all of the learning styles together. They are listening to you read, they read the scriptures or the section headings under each picture, and using their hands to draw. My children and I learned a lot about the scripture stories. I am amazed at how the story of Esther came alive to us, we were able to simply picture it in our minds.
Grapevine Studies has Old Testament and other Biblical curriculum as well as the ones we were able to review. Right now they are giving all of my blog readers (that is YOU) 30% off of all of their books for one month.
Here is what you need to know:

Go to the website~ http://www.grapevinestudies.com/
Use the coupon code~ crews

A big thank you goes to Grapevine Studies!

The Believer

by Ann Gabhart
Baker Publishing

Elizabeth is the oldest of three children and in charge of her younger brother and sister after their father dies. They have no money, family, or place to go. Elizabeth remembers her father tell her about the Shaker community not far from them and how peaceful it was there and that they take in orphans. With their landlord's coming advances toward Elizabeth, they must leave quickly. With hope and determination they begin their journey to the Shakers where they hope to find help.
Ethan was just a boy when he came to the Shaker community. He became a believer just a short time after he became of age. He wholeheartedly believes in Shaker ways, but when Elizabeth and her siblings come to the Shaker community he starts to doubt. Shakers do not believe in romantic love or matrimony;they believe that it is a sin. However, Ethan feels this pull towards Elizabeth.
Within the community there are those that want Elizabeth and her out of control sister to leave the village, but there are those that take Elizabeth under their wings and encourage her to follow the Shaker path.
Elizabeth finds herself thinking of Ethan. When her old landlord comes to take her away into forced marriage will she go? Can Elizabeth become a Shaker and leave her worldly ways behind even though her sister is struggling? Will Ethan leave the life he knows to be with Elizabeth? Well, you will have to read The Believer to find out!
I enjoyed this book, although I argued with the Shaker's in their beliefs. I really did not know much about the Shakers before I read this book. I found it interesting. Ann Gabhart adds intrigue and twists and turns in her writing which I found to be refreshing.

Words Unspoken

by Elizabeth Musser

Lissa Randall is an intelligent and promising young woman. Her future is hopeful, until her mother is killed in an automobile accident. Lissa can not get back in the driver's seat again. She blames herself for her mother's death. Her life has come to a standstill. Lissa does not go away to college as her friends do, her life just basically stops.
Ev Mac Allister's driving school seems good enough for her to relearn how to be comfortable to drive, but Lissa is in a whole lot more then just learning to drive again. She slowly learns to put her life back into perspective. Lissa comes to terms with her mother's accident by trusting and listening to Ev.
Ev has several secrets that start to unravel. He is a wonderful caring man towards Lissa, but was he always that way? Ev and his wife befriend young Lissa and are there for her as she struggles with thoughts of suicide.
This is a deeply powerful book. I gained so much more then is on the pages. If I was a betting person I would guess that this book will keep you up all night just so you can find out how the book ends (at least that is what happened to me).

Things Left Unspoken

by Eva Marie Everson

Jo-Lynn Hunter is a southern woman with marital problems and an old family home to remodel and decorate. There is a little bit of mystery and a whole lot of southern charm. Jo-Lynn uncovers more than wood work in her old family home. The twists and turns will keep you turning pages long into the night.
Jo-Lynn needs to heal her marriage, but is not wholeheartedly trying. As she uncovers the truth behind her family she learns to heal her marriage. There is so much depth to this story. Not only do we read about Jo-Lynn, but we also read about her Great Aunt Stella and how her past is full of surprises.
When I was reading this book, I felt like I was a part of the south, even though I have never lived there, only visited. Such a small tight knit community that has lost much over the years, they are trying to rebuild and get their little town up and coming once again.
If you are ready for a bit of mystery and lots of surprising turn of events all mixed in with southern hospitality then this is the book for you!

The Hope of Refuge

by Cindy Woodsmall

I really enjoy reading books about the Amish culture. Even though this is a work of fiction it still gives the reader an idea about how the Amish live.
In this book Cindy Woodsmall writes about a young mom, Cara, and her daughter, Lori. Cara was raised in foster care since she was about 8 and her mother died in a car accident Cara is scared because she is running from a stalker. She remembers when she was a young girl, before her mom passed away, her mom took her to visit some Amish friends. She decides to take her daughter to the Amish where she hopes someone will help them. Little does she know how that decision will change their lives forever.
Ephraim is a young Amish man, who has yet to find a wife. He remembers Cara from when she was a girl and came to visit. He wants to help her reconnect with her Amish relatives, but the tight knit community is very upset that Ephraim is letting the girl and her daughter stay in his home.
Are Ephraim and Cara falling in love? If so, will he leave the Amish faith in order to marry her? Will she convert to the faith with all of the strange customs? To answer these questions you will just have to read the book for yourself. I highly recommend this good, clean read! Here is what ABC news has to say, ABC . Purchase your copy today at Random House.
Cindy Woodsmall will be at the following locations for book signing, so if you are in one of these areas go and meet her and get your book signed!

Tuesday, August 11 7 – 8:30pm
Barnes & Noble
5141 Peachtree Parkway, The ForumNorcross , Georgia 30092(770) 209-4244

Wednesday, August 12 7 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble Opry Mills
515 Opry Mills DriveNashville, Tennessee 37214(615) 514-5000

Thursday, August 13 6 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble
2540 Futura Pkwy. #135Plainfield , Indiana 46168(317) 838-7941

Friday, August 14 6 – 8pm
Barnes & Noble
1550 West 75thDowners Grove , Illinois 60516(630) 663-0181

Saturday, August 15 1 – 3pm
Baker Books
2768 East Paris Ave SEGrand Rapids , Michigan 49546-6139(616) 957-3110

Sunday, August 16 2 – 4pm
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
3700 Rivertown Parkway Ste. 2058Grandville, Michigan 49418(616) 531-1825

Monday, August 17 7 – 8:00pm
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
1739 Olentangy River RoadColumbus, Ohio 43212(614) 298-9516

Tuesday, August 18 7– 8:30pm
Joseph Beth Booksellers
2705 E. Carson StreetPittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203(412) 381-3600

Wednesday, August 19 6 – 8pm
Hackman’s Bible Book Store
1341 Mickley RoadWhitehall, Pennsylvania 18052-4610(610) 264-8600

Thursday, August 20 1 – 3pm
Rachel’s Country Store (Amish dry goods store)
6352 McClays Mill RoadNewburg, Pennsylvania 17240(717) 530-9452

Web Designs for Kids

Click Drag Solutions



When my boys (ages 13 & 8) found out we were going to review Web Designs for Kids they were ecstatic. We received the DVD on a day we were really busy, so my poor boys had to wait a few days before we could watch it. We watched the entire DVD before we started anything on the computer. I realize now that we could have started designing right on the computer while watching the DVD. The next day we started using the computers. Ben, my 8 year old, used the PC, while Sonny, 13 yrs, used my laptop. They both were able to follow the very simple directions on the DVD. I was surprised that Ben was able to make a web page, I guess that I figured he would be too young, but the DVD made it so easy to understand even for me (I am not that computer savvy).
When their dad got home that evening, the boys were so excited to show him each of their web pages they had made. In this first DVD it teaches how to make and design a web page, however it does not teach how to make your website public.
The DVD takes the confusion out of web designing. Learning HTML can be confusing and daunting. This DVD is FABULOUS, not only does it teach kids HTML, but it does it in an EASY way. It gives step by step instructions easy enough for kids (and confused adults).
Web Designs for Kids is currently on sale for a limited price of $19.99. The original price is $40. Shipping and handling is $3.99.

Blue Like Play Dough

Blue Like Play Dough the shape of motherhood in the grip of God
by Tricia Goyer
Multnomah Publishing

Tricia Goyer is a breath of fresh air. I have read many books on motherhood and parenting and this is one of the best. She takes her readers on her journey of motherhood. Tricia learned through the good and the bad of parenting to trust in God. Her beginnings started out rough with finding herself pregnant as a teen. She gradually learned that without God he would not be able to get through motherhood. Tricia is real. Her experiences are real. She shares the good and the bad.
What I liked the best was how each chapter is like a mini book (plus they have such fun names). The book gave me things to think about and ponder. I think we all need to value motherhood and with God's help and love we can become a better mom.
To learn more about Tricia Goyer go to her website http://www.triciagoyer.com
She is a writer and has written several other books.
This would be a great book to give a new mom or an experienced mom or buy one for yourself!! Go to http://www.randomhouse.com to purchase your very own copy. Also, leave a comment here and I will be giving a brand new copy away! I will post the winner on August 1st!

Worth a Thousand Words

Worth a Thousand Words (Jubilant Soul 2)
by Stacy Hawkins Adams
Revell Publishing

Indigo dream of becoming a photographer may just not come true. She has a love of photography. Indigo has wonderful talent and ambition to go far in her career as a professional photographer. However, will she be able to continue her dream even when her life goes crazy? Her fiance wants her to marry him right away and give up going to get her degree. She discovers a health issue that may just make her lose it all.
Although this is the second in the series, I felt like it spoke for itself. I enjoyed reading this. I was rooting for Indigo and could not wait to get to the next chapter to find out what she would uncover next. I did however have an issue with how homosexuality was brought up in the book. But, I am glad that it played out in a positive way and what God would want, although I personally believe that one can change with the help of God. It did make me uncomfortable. 

I do not want to uncover too much in the book, so I will just tell you to all go out and get yourself a copy.

The list price is $12.99.

SpellQuizzer

SpellQuizzer

Spelling is something that has always come natural for me. I guess I am a lucky gal. There are many children that struggle with spelling. My children are pretty good spellers, but still need reinforcement.

SpellQuizzer is an online spelling program. It is a program that allows mom (or your child) to enter in spelling words and sentences to help a child learn spelling words. You can either type it in or record your voice on a computer microphone for the child to hear. The child then practices it over and over. If the child gets it wrong, the correct word comes up green and their incorrect word in red. SpellQuizzer re-quizzes them on their misspelled words.

We do not own a microphone for our computer and because the time frame for reviewing this program was not very long I did not get to go purchase one. However we used the pre-made lists the program came with. Benjamin, 8 yrs, worked with the program. He loved when he got his word right. It gave him self confidence in his spelling. I liked that it did not take much time for me to have him practice spelling.

There is no distractions in SpellQuizzer, which is refreshing. I liked that the program was simple and straight forward. This program also gave my son a good sense of the keyboard. I think it would be great for children to become familiar with the computer keyboard. The program is perfect to enhance whatever spelling program your homeschool is using. If you have a child in school it would be a great source for them to practice their spelling words.

I can see how this may be useful in other ways besides spelling. I think it would be very helpful in learning vocabulary, foreign languages, and for preschoolers to learn their letters. I would recommend this program for children who are needing reinforcement or having a hard time spelling. You can buy SpellQuizzer program for $29.99.

Religion of the Stars

by Richard Abanes
Bethany House Publishing

I am usually well rounded in my reviews of books, however I must say this book is awful. It is about various religions of the famous Hollywood stars. There are several religions mentioned. In the preface of the book Richard Abanes states that he did not write this book to criticize or put down any religion. However that is what he does. Although I do not believe or agree with Oprah's new age spirituality religion, Abanes criticizes Oprah for her beliefs.
Abanes believes his interpretation of the Bible is the correct one. He puts down other religions to make his interpretations right. It is really sad that an author had to write a book to criticize what others believe. I feel it is wrong.

I Believe Bunny

I Believe Bunny
by Tish Rabe
Thomas Nelson Publishing



This is such a delightful children's book. It is about a Bunny who needs helf to rescue a fellow friend (a mouse) from a river. He prays throughout the book for some help. He knows he is unable to save the mouse by himself. He is very scared, but realizes he needs to push his fear asaide. The bunny knows he is the only one around and does not want is friend to perish. He has a great faith that God will help him save the mouse. Will God answer his prayers? If so, how? You will have to read the book to find out. What a wonderful message for children. Sometimes it can be hard to find a book about faith written on a child's level. It has very beautiful soft illustrations. It is a hardback book. It would make a wonderful gift for any child.