#7QT: Let's Get Planning Tips and Curriculum Sale

Linking up with Kelly for some more getting started tips.

1

If you are discerning homeschooling or just getting started, you have no doubt seen the big catalogs full of curriculum and asked friends which curriculum you should choose.  Are you experiencing sticker shock?

Homeschooling can seem overwhelming enough, the the cost of a box curriculum can turn many away.  I am here to tell you that you don't need a fancy, expensive boxed curriculum.  If that is what works for your family, then that is fine.  However if money is an issue keep reading for some tips on saving money.

2

First, I'm going to let you in on a little secret.  You don't need textbooks to teach.  Gasp!  It's true.  Historical fiction, quality literature, well done non-fiction, and a good poetry book can give you excellent spines for your school.  Textbooks have their place, but if money is tight, especially if you are teaching 6th grade and below, opting for good books instead of textbooks is the way to go.

If you need help assembling your books into a year's curriculum, I am happy to answer questions.

3

Invest in good, hard covered books and texts that can be used multiple times with all your children.  This may be a little more expensive in the beginning but in the long run will save you so much money, especially since these can usually be bought used and resold.  Workbooks are expensive and consumable.  You will need to repurchase them every year for every child.  While I do use some workbooks, my main focus is durable books.

4

Check out your library!  Your library may already have a number of books you can use.  If you don't see what you need, request an interlibrary loan.  I have even hear of libraries specially ordering books that have been requested.  While that is not a given, it never hurts to ask.  I have found at least 10 books that Buddy is using for next year available at the local library.  That is saving my close to $100!

5

Find printables, downloads, ebooks, and audiobooks online.  I'm not a fan of ebooks, but there are some desirable ones available, often for free.  Public domain books are available as ebooks and audiobooks on several websites.  For example Grammar Land by Nesbit, a vintage grammar books that is on Buddy's school list this year, is available free via ebook, audiobook, and I found worksheets to compliment the book which I had printed for less than $1.

Do a little searching and you will be amazed at what you find.

6

I have written before about the importance of a community.  Find a homeschool buddy or two and split the cost of some bigger curriculum purchases.  For instance, my friend, Mary, and I have built a library of Apologia Exploring Creation books.  By buying them a little at a time and taking turns, we now own all of the books.  We are currently working on purchasing the audio versions.  These have and will continue to be used by all of our children. A little joint investment can go a long way!

7

Shop used curriculum sales, such as the one that Jessica sponsors every year.  Her sale is actually what got me blogging so this is an anniversary of sorts for Veils and Vocations.  Below are my items for sale.  Please comment if you would like to purchase one or more.  Shipping is $4 the first book, $1 each additional.  Any questions, please ask.  Thank you for looking and helping to support my homeschool. Be sure to check out all the other books available on Jessica's bloghop!

 

Wii game, like new, used twice. $3

Homemade recipes from Amish country, new $2 shipped

 

Seton readers, good condition, shelf wear, $3 each

These Are Our Horizons--Sold

 

Mysteries of Ancient America, HC, DJ, some wear, GC $2

How People Lived in the Middle Ages, HC, GC, $1

 

Problem Solving, sc, gc, no writing $1

Mental Math, sc, gc, $1

 

Easy Grammar, Like New, no writing, EC, retails $23, asking $10--Sold

 

Set of New Cathedral Readers, from 1950s.  

Bindings are worn, some more than others. A couple of books have writing on the covers, and a couple of the title pages are damaged. I tried to show this in the pictures.  However, all of the story pages are in excellent condition.  I went through every book, no marks or damage to actual reading pages.  These were in a friend's family for 3 generations, she has decided to pass them on.

Asking $65 for entire set, some of these sell for $20 each!

 

New Arabian Nights, SC, GC, $1

 

Lenten Adventure workbook from Holy Heroes, SC, LN, no writing, $3

 

BJU Spelling grade 1, LN, no writing. Text and workbook. Given to us but we aren't going to use it. Asking $3 for set

 

Concepts and Challenges set, 2nd edition, EC, minimal shelf wear, asking $20 for set --Sold

Thanks and God bless!

 

Five Favs: Free Lenten Studies

This may be my shortest #5Favs post ever.  I am trying out a number of online studies and mini-studies this Lent and they are really focusing my Lent in the right direction.  Here is my list of favorites, most are completely free.  Enjoy! (Linking up with Ashley)

1

Matthew Kelly's Best Lent Ever

Matthew Kelly is one of my all time favorite, Catholic authors.  His books will ignite a fire in even the coldest hearts.  If you don't have much time to read, though, try out his online Best Lent Ever program.  Each day two short videos, a reflection, and action plan are delivered to your email.  It takes about five minutes to read, watch, and reflect on the teaching of the day.  Even the busiest of us have five minutes to give to growing in faith.  There is still time to sign up, so do it today.

2

The Wild Goose

I am just starting this study and do not think that I will finish before Easter, but I am so excited that my friend shared it with me.  The study consists of a growing list of videos, each around 35 minutes long.  There is also a study guide, as well as other resources.  The cinematography is breathtaking and the message of the role of the Holy Spirit invigorating.  Did I mention it is free?  Absolutely free.  This would be a wonderful study to do in a small group or just within your family.  Everything you need is right there, all you need is about an hour per session.  Sign up anytime through the Wild Goose webpage and set you soul on fire.

3

The Bible and the Virgin Mary

Let's say your time budget is really small.  Could you spare about 6 hours over the entire season of Lent?  Or do you want to know more about Mary so that you can defend the Catechism of the Catholic Church and grow in appreciation for Our Blessed Mother?  If you answered yes to either of these questions, this is the study for you.  Delivered to your Inbox in 12 segments (about two per week), this video study from the St Paul Institute is another beautifully crafted addition to any Lenten journey. Truly the films are breathtaking in sight and knowledge.  If you choose to delve deeper, free video participants receive free shipping on any order of the companion workbook.  Please check it out today!

4

Bishop Barron's Lenten Reflections

Bishop Barron is a dynamic preacher and solid theologian.  He has a depth of knowledge and insight that will draw you deep into the faith, but is able to present it all in a way accessible to anyone.  The Bishop's reflections are delivered each day to your email and correspond to the the relevant Gospel readings of the week.  With these reflections, you will pick apart the Temptation of Christ over a span of days and have a renewed insight into what these temptations truly meant not only in Biblical context but in the whole of salvation history.  There is still time to sign up for free!

5

Father Gaitley's 33 Days to Morning Glory

This is an exciting study that leads to a total consecrations to Mary.  You will not only be drawn to closer devotion to Mary and greater understanding of her role in God's Great Plan, but you will also learn about a collection of saints that were influenced by Our Lady and the fruits of that devotion.  I am currently doing this in a small group via Formed.org.  While Formed.org is only free to members, the $9.99 per a month cost would easily be paid for just be this one study.  I am blessed to have a free membership through our parish.  The study on Formed.org includes all the retreat materials ready to print or read online, the entire book 33 Days to Morning Glory and Multiple videos each week of Father Gaitley teaching the principles of the consecration.  It is the perfect length for Lent, lasting about 6 weeks.  

What are your favorite resources online to enrich your Lenten journey?

Happy Feast of St Juan Diego

Today is the Feast of St Juan Diego. He is a special friend of my older children. It is very interesting how they developed a love and devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe at a young age, even though I knew very little about her. So, one year, I purchased Holy Heroes vol 1 about St Juan Diego and Blessed Imelda as a surprise for Our Lady of Guadalupe Day. That developed their love for Juan Diego also. Holy Heroes is offering this CD for FREE this week. If you don't own it, I encourage you to get it! We will be listening to our copy today.

Since we have  big celebrations for St Nicholas, St Lucy, Our Lady of Guadalupe and Immaculate Conception is a Holy Day of Obligation all in one week, for this feast we do something easy. Some years it is premade burritos, in the car, on the way to basketball practice. As Buddy would say, "True story!"

This year we are having tostadas topped with black beans, cheese, salsa, and sour cream.  I have a special craft planned for Our Lady of Guadalupe this Friday, so please be sure to check back.

St Juan Diego, faithful servant of Our Lady, pray for us!

Getting Spiritually Fed on a Mom Budget

I am not one to say, "Time is money."  However, money and time do have a lot in common, for one thing, they are both finite resources.  You must budget because once they run out, it's over.  There are only 24 hours in a day and there is no way to change that.  While you could work a couple more hours or pick up a side job to earn some extra money, there is no way to earn extra hours of the day.  As a mom, time is even more precious.  Our time is not our own and so we must seek good resources that will nourish our soul and still fit into our time constraints.  Below are seven quick takes to get you fed spiritually, and just to make sure they are easy on your financial budget, too, they are all free!

 

1

YouTube is a very underutilized resource for spiritual growth.  While not everything on YouTube is acceptable, nor recommended; there is much that can help in your walk of faith. The best, quick resource is the collection of Father Barron videos from Word on Fire.  each video is only a few minutes long, but inspiring and informative.  If you have a bit longer, check out Scott Hahn's talks, which are usually under an hour. Just have a notebook ready, Mr. Hahn is a very well read and knowledgeable man, he has so much information to share.

2

 Catholic apps allow moms to access great teaching and inspiration on the go.  If you have five minutes to spend while picking up or dropping off the kids you can read the daily Mass readings, find a favorite prayer, read the current Catholic news stories, or even learn about the life of a saint.   My favorite is Catholic Companion, but there are many more.  Most are free, but if you have a bit of money to spend, check out this beautiful Divine Office app.

3

E-books have the advantages of not cluttering up your home, costing significantly less, and usually being shorter reads than print published books. Grab your favorite e-reader and check out the collections of free reads from the Catholic eBook Project, St Patrick's Basilica, and Two Hearts Network. 

4

EWTN is a wonderful ministry that has touched millions of lives.  Even if you so not have cable, you can watch it's beautiful and uplifting programming. Just visit the "watch live" tab on the homepage and stream the programs in real time.  It is also possible to stream EWTN radio. You can also download the EWTN app to watch the programs via wi-fi on the go.  I hope to get back into this routine, my children and I really enjoy many of the family programs, we just often forget to tune in at the correct times.  If you can't watch live, there are an number of programs available on the EWTN YouTube channel.  

5

 Catholic blogs are a great support network for mothers and I have highlights many of my favorites in past posts.  Another one I would recommend is CatholicMom.com

I have really enjoyed being able to follow my favorite blogs through Facebook, it floods my news feed with positive messages and helps me keep up with all of them, even if I don't always get to read every post.  

6

Have a bit of faith and inspiration delivered to your Inbox or cellphone.  Join Flocknote to receive a "daily tidbit of Catholic faith" everyday through email.   The Knights of Columbus also offer "My Catechism Day by Day."  There are also a number of Bible SMS services that will text a bible verse to you.  I have subscribed to one of these and it is always nice to get a message with a biblical verse, usually comes just when I need it, too.  I have not been able to find a solely Catholic service, however.  I also encourage you to join JoyNotes and receive joyful and uplifting letters each week from the Poor Clares in Spokane, WA.

7

Go to church!  All of the high-tech, modern devices are wonderful and having a library of spiritual books is lovely but really to get grounded in God, we must spend time with Him.  Stop into your church for a few quiet moments, visit an adoration chapel for even fifteen minutes, take a Sunday afternoon walk at a shrine, or work it out with your husband to let you show up alone a bit early or stay a little later for Sunday Mass.  Spending some quiet, prayerful moments will draw you closer to the LORD and refresh your soul.

For more ideas, visit my Pinterest board for Moms.

7 Quick Takes: Free Summer Reading Edition

Well, there are still quite a few weeks of summer left, so it's not too late to start reading. Here are some great summer reads that are free.

1

This first one is one that I have been so waiting for its release.  I have not gotten to read it yet, but it's next in line.  Check out the free download on Brandon Vogt's blog.  While you are there also read his post on building a free (or very cheap) Catholic e-library.  Both should keep you reading for a long time.

2

 

This is a short but powerful book.  It is a very easy read--mostly because it is so well written and really draws you in to want to know more--but definitely life changing.  I read this once last year, but I am hoping to read it again soon.    You can get a free copy on Connie's blog, Contemplative Homeschool.

3

 

The book above can be borrowed for free from the Kindle Library.  I really recommend Cindy Rollin's post on The Little Way in which she explains how she implemented what she learned from this book.  No time for a whole book?  Read the the excellent post instead (or read the post first and then borrow the book)  

4

  

A good complement to the "Little Way" post is this post on Baby Steps to Living the Liturgical Year over at Catholic All Year.  I longer post than the previous one, but so informative.  Feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of bringing the liturgical year home to your domestic church?  Feeling inadequate because you aren't crafty, organized, or talented enough to pull off anything so impressive it will get published in a magazine?  Don't worry, that's not what living the liturgical year is all about.  Read this post and then take the first baby step toward building your domestic church. 

5

  

Free Catholic e-books as well as other resources are also available at Source of Light Monastary.  There is a little bit of everything here so you are sure to find at least one book you just must read now! 

6

  

I discovered the blog Simply Living for Him when I read Simply Homeschool.  A great book to read before starting to plan for next year.  Karen also has the above e-book for free on her blog.  While you are there, print a copy of her 31 days of prayer for your homeschool.  I plan on starting this prayer month on August 1st so my school will be steeped in prayer by day one! 

7

 

There are books and more available at Free for Catholics.  Some items require the payment of shipping, but they are still a steal.  Browse the many lists of freebies geared just for Catholics and have fun "shopping" without spending a dime!  After all, a dime can feed two hungry children through Mary's Meals so send it their way instead.

Do you have any great free resources or e-books to share?   

Sharing a giveaway...(or two!)

I didn't get to writing a full post today, but I wanted to share a special giveaway that is going on at Shower of Roses.  Jessica is hosting a giveaway for two blessed readers to win their choice of Mama's Notebooks.  Even if you don't win, click over for some wonderful coupons codes.  All notebooks are on sale right now 15% off, and Jessica is sharing a special code for an additional 10% off of your order!  Who doesn't love a sale?  Hope you are having a beautiful and blessed day.

 

Oh, Wait...there's more...while I was entering into this giveaway, I found out that Catholic Sistas is sponsoring a planner giveaway as well.  Click here to enter to win a Catholic Throughout the Year planner.  Bonne chance! (as the French would say)

Christmas in July

It's July, a great time of year for swim team, barbeques, and Christmas shopping.  That's right, I'm already preparing for Christmas.  By taking my time to really think and search, I have the opportunity to give a real gift instead of just buying a present.  We live in a small home, very small, and so I have to really have to be picky about what I bring into it.  I try to give the children items that not only have long term value as opposed to the latest fad, but also durability and positive influences.  My children are not allowed to make long Christmas lists that go on and on with every latest gadget, gizmo, and craze.  Instead, they make a list of three small things (both in size and cost) that they would like in their stocking.  Sometimes, it's a book or art supply, one year Cowgirl wanted a fold up music stand for when she practiced piano.  Each of them usually ask for a favorite treat or candy--since this is the only time I am willing to buy either for them.  By keeping their focus away from the gimmies, we can keep our focus on Christ.  So it is with shopping in the summer.  I can use the down time of the year to pay attention to what I am buying and not be pressured.  During Advent, I am free to focus on the intent of the season and only have to pick up those three stocking stuffers they request on St Nicholas Day.  Below I have a couple of tips and tricks to help make Christmas shopping a year round, albeit more enjoyable and sanctifying event.

Budget and Free Money

It goes without saying that the best gifts bought with money you don't have end up being a curse not a blessing.  Take July to set up a spending plan, or maybe even your own Christmas account where you commit to depositing a certain amount each week or month.  In general, I try to spend as little as possible on Christmas.  It isn't that I don't love my children or even that I don't find SO MANY things I would like to buy, I just feel that there are ways to better spend the money than piles of toys.  One of the ways I cut down on expenses is by using "free money".    I belong to the following sites that offer cash back and/or points for reading emails, taking surveys, etc.  Now, let's be honest, you will never get rich reading emails, but any money that you save even if it is $50, $100 or only $15 is less money out of your pocket.  I have a collection of sites I belong to so that I can save up the most points/cash.  Right now, my favorite is Ebates, but I fluctuate depending upon who is offering the biggest bang for my buck.

Inboxdollars: Offers cash back as well as payments for reading emails, taking surveys, and watching videos.  The average payment is $0.02 per an email, not much, but if you read three emails a day, five days a week, you would save up over $15 in a year without even really trying.

My Points: My Points is similar to Inboxdollars except that you earn points that are traded in for gift cards.  I usually always earn at least two gift cards that I use to pay for or give as gifts.

Ebates: This is my newest site and right now my favorite.  Simply shop through the site to easily find coupons and earn cash back.  For example, I have been doing this for our orders through drugstore.com and earning 4% back on top of my drugstore.com dollars!  

Plan Gifts of Giving

Part of the reason that I like to not spend money, is because I prefer to take the money I have set aside for gifts and give it to those who really need it.  We make it a family affair so that the children learn to love giving.  Here are some of our favorite charities to support:

Mary's Meals: I can't say enough about this charity.  It is so simple. They take five cents (a nickel!!!) and feed a desperately hungry child at school.  Thus the child is nourished in mind AND body, increasing the chances that the cycle of poverty will be broken.  With just five cents, you are changing the world, one meal at a time.  In addition, 97% of every dollar goes directly to the children in need.  Learn more at their site and watch the movie Child 31, it will change your outlook on life forever.  

Operation Christmas Child: This is a favorite event in our house.  The children so enjoy shopping and filling shoe boxes for those in need.  The concept is also simple, fill a shoebox for a needy child with basic necessities and a few treats.  It is such a tangible way for children to learn to give, and you know everything you give is going directly into the hands of those that need it.

ShowHope: This is a favorite of mine.  Orphans are near and dear to my heart and I pray often for the chance to finally adopt my own.  In the meantime, this charity is doing so much for the orphans themselves in addition to financing the process of finding them forever homes.

In addition to those listed above, "St Nicholas" always leaves something for the children to give away.  They get a small treat (costing less that $3) and a little candy, but the big gift is something they must share.  Some years it has been some new toys to donate, or a big bag of groceries.  In recent years, we have started leaving cash and having the children decided how to spend it.  More often than not they choose animals or supplies from some of the many charity gift catalogs we receive each Advent.  They have so much fun and really try to use the money wisely so that that they can give as many things as possible.  Invaluable lessons are being taught without me even having to teach!

Celebrate the Whole Season

Part of what I also do in July is decide what feast days we will celebrate during Advent and any supplies we will need to do it.  In this way, the season is a time of anticipation and joy, without the entire focus being on Christmas day for getting, getting, getting.  Our favorite feasts to celebrate include St Nicholas Day, St Lucy's Day, St Juan Diego, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Sundays of Advent. So take some time and plan some simple celebrations (Last year, St Juan Diego day fell on a particularly busy day.  We ate burritos from Dollar Tree for dinner and read a short book about Juan Diego.  Simple, cheap, but the kids ate it up!)  Pick out a simple treat to share with the children that day, like a new book, or watch a movie together or try something different like Mexican hot chocolate.  In the end, the children will build memories that will last much longer than that toy that they have to have!  It is important to plan these days early because the hustle and bustle of the weeks leading to Christmas will most certainly prevent you from doing so then. So prepare now, so you can prepare your hearts then.

I hope this has been at least a little helpful.  If you aren't ready to do this right now, start saving and thinking and plan on hopping on-board the Christmas in July train next year.  You and your children will certainly be happy you did.