Homeschool Class on Missouri Blackbears

from an email I received:

"I am scheduling a homeschool program for August 29th 2012 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The subject will be Missouri Black Bears.

Please let all your homeschool families know. If they have any questions they can contact me anytime. There will be room for 40 students at this program, so RSVP early.



Shelly Cox (C.I.G.)

Naturalist

MDC NW Regional Office

701 James McCarthy Drive

St. Joseph, MO 64507

816-271-3111 ext. 1442"

Homestead Survival: Got empty wire spools? Here's an idea!

Homestead Survival: Got empty wire spools? Here's an idea!: http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/132323/got-empty-wire-spools-heres-an-idea/10

You could use the spools for rabbit hutches, chicken coops and more.

PLAN test for homeschoolers in KC area this fall

There will be FOUR locations and dates for the PLAN test (pre-ACT) this fall.


Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church, 13000 Bennington, Grandview MO 64030 Monday, October 22

Brighton Academy, 10100 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park KS 66212 (located in Emmanuel Baptist Church) Thursday, November 1

*Ad Lucem Classical Academy, 10500 E.350 Hwy, Raytown, MO 64138 (located in Raytown First Baptist Church) Tuesday, November 6

Harmony Vineyard Church, 600 NE 46th Street, Kansas City, MO 64116 Wednesday, November 14


*New Location

This is a test designed by the ACT college entrance exam company. It is specifically designed for 10th graders, but all high school students are welcome to take it. The test covers the same areas that the ACT test does: English, Math, Reading and Science Reasoning. Test results can be used to obtain good student discount rates with insurance companies, as well as giving students practice for taking the college entrance exam. After the test, you will receive the test questions, along with the answers your student gave on the test, and the correct answers, if any were wrong. This will make it very easy for you and your student to understand what they missed that day and why it was missed.

It is a one day test. You may pick the most convenient date and location for your family. Testing will begin at 9:30 a.m. and be over about 1:15 p.m. The cost for the test is $22 for the two Missouri sites and $30 for the Kansas location. You need to send the registration form and a self-addressed stamped business size envelope ($.45 stamp or a forever), along with the check made out to Monette Anderson. Registration deadline is October 15, 2012. If you have any questions, please contact Monette Anderson at whereismonette@gmail.com or feel free to call at 816-781-5531. (Most days calls are being screened due to homeschooling needs.) Please do not contact the churches. I will email you confirmation of receipt of your registration when I receive it, so please print all information very carefully. Thanks.


Students name: ____________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Phone # ___________________ Location:________________________________________

Parent’s name(s): ___________________________________________________________

E-mail ____________________________________________________________________

Please send all information by October 15 to:

Monette Anderson
901 Cambridge Circle

Liberty, MO 64068

Alpha Omega SOS Update & Hummingbirds

We started using the Alpha Omega computer based software this year for our homeschooling.  We started early this summer with a couple of electives- high school health and Missouri State history.  Those went smoothly, so I went ahead and bought (used from Ebay, several years old, and a fourth of the new price) the core subjects.

So far, for the most part, it is going well.  Elizabeth is having a few issues-computer wise, but we like it.  And, it is also improving their computer and keyboarding skills as well.  To check for updates and revisions, I simply click a button and two minutes later any are automatically downloaded.  Very simple.  It also does all the scoring and grade work for me, and gives the girls feedback as to how they are doing.  At this point, I'd say I would give it a high recommendation.

We will be adding a few more electives in after the current ones are finished.

We are also working on electives from Amanda Bennett.  One of those is 2012 election.  Very timely as we go through the election process.  The Amanda Bennett electives are more affordable at only around $15 each.

This afternoon Emily and I put up a hummingbird feeder.  I have not had one on the porch since we moved into this house ( had one under a tree in years past, but not at the porch), yet a hummingbird keeps coming to a spot just outside one of my living room windows.  He has been coming several times a day for last couple of weeks, so I finally got a feeder up.  20 minutes after the feeder was up, he came back, and Rebecca got some pictures of him with her camera.  As time goes on and he gets more used to us we can probably get a closer picture.

Now we will probably do a short lesson on humming birds, so we know a little bit more about our new guest.

Heart, Hands, Home: Homemade Mozzarella Cheese

Check this out.  I think i am going to try this with some whole milk from Shatto Dairy, but will probably have to make a trip to Trails End Trading Post bulk food store in Cameron  first to get some of the other ingredients.

Click on the link below--she has great step by step directions with lots of pictures.  It looks very very easy to make.  Would make a good 4H project as well!!

Heart, Hands, Home: Homemade Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is one of the easiest cheeses to make, it only takes 30 minutes and the taste can't be beat! The ingredients are simple althoug...

OK--to add to this, If you use Junket Rennet--adjust your recipe:::

I used Junket Rennet tablets, and if you use those, don't get discouraged waiting for the batch to curd as Junket tablets have significantly less rennet concentration than other brands..  You have to use double the rennet (1/2 tab) and wait 1-2 HOURS before it will curd. Just keep the lid on your pan and don't touch it or cook it when you get to that stage. You also have to cook it on the cooktop at 108 degrees for 35 minutes after it curds.

EduFair in Springfield MO Aug 16

This day has been specifically designed for your home education family.  Come relax and spend the day with us.  Just look at all the stuff that is waiting for you to enjoy.......in Battlefield, Missouri

Battlefield City Park
5434 S Tower Dr
Battlefield, MO 65619

(property adjoining the Municipal Plaza)

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Opens at 9:30am

Closes at 2:30pm

FREE!!! NO ADMISSION FEE, FREE!!!

EduFairs are a home education event filled with interactive activities for all ages.  Bring your boxes of used books/education resources/games/posters and teaching resources to the totally FREE exchange.  This event features local businesses, homeschool entrepreneurs, and educational shows along with hands-on acitivities. Write thank-you notes at the event and earn tickets for lots of donated treats.  Spend the day with FIELD TRIPS!!! and meet new friends.

This fun-filled family day will be action packed!
Here is the current Educational Show Schedule:

10am Sign Language with Michelle! Come learn the signs for different types of clothing.

10:30am "Singing Insects!" presented by Jay Barber, Missouri Department of Conservation!!!

We'll learn the summer sounds of insects, listen for these various summer singers that will have about 6 more weeks of calling, and explore different specimens.

Noon TENTATIVE Homeschool Orchestra

1 pm Crochet with Michelle! Bring your size G or H crochet hook and learn how to crochet a bookmark.

There will also be an activities and information fair, continuously from 9:30am to 2:30pm, provided by local home education and child-oriented organizations! Every display area features interactive activities for the kids. There are all sorts of unique and interesting businesses sponsoring this event.  Arts & Crafts will be available for the kids to enjoy some fun and messy learning! If your homeschool organization would like to set up a table, simply email Pamela with your organization name, contact information, and your website to Spcparents@aol.com  Than, show up with your display and interactive kids' activity at the Battlefield EduFair. No charge! No Selling per state regulations.

There is a large field for your picnic lunch and enjoyment.  Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, canopies, and playpens and Sunscreen!  Let's enjoy the great outdoors :) Please NO Alcohol, and NO smoking.

There are two playground areas with play equipment appropriate for toddlers and older children as well as swings and other play stations. The paved walking trail provides a half mile loop around the park that is lighted. There are two lighted tennis courts and a basketball area.

Bring your tennis balls & rackets, basketballs, soccer balls, and suntan lotion.  There is also a fountain & gazebo in honor of the Trail of Tears, however NO WATER PLAY due to city regulations. Meet lots of home educators, JUST LIKE YOU who treasure this precious freedom we have in America.

Another popular feature is the totally FREE teaching resource, games, books, and curriculum exchange, bring your box of gently used fun and walk away with something! This promises to be a spectacular event!  Clean out your house and bring those boxes to EduFair!!! You DO NOT have to bring a box to take home a box. We DO encourage you to BRING boxes for your books to take home!

This fun-filled family day will be action packed!  Keep checking back to this webpage for the event schedule!!!

Would you, or someone you know like to participate?  Artists, musicians, volunteers, sponsors & financial donors are all needed in order to provide this cultural opportunity free of cost to our community.  Please contact us ASAP.

Please patronize our sponsors. Join us! We have plenty of room to add YOU! Email Pamela at Homeedfieldtrips@aol.com for more info:

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Springfield Incredible Pizza Company
Home School programs offered monthly with Mad Science in Springfield, Missouri

Thank you for your Incredible Pizza Card Fundraiser!!! We raised $500 in January, 2012.

http://www.incrediblepizza.com/Locations.html

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Papa Murphys

http://www.papamurphys.com/Home

Thank you for your Papa Murphys Fundraiser!!! We've raised $320 so far towards our organizational goal of saving 3 years annual budget.

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Hy-Vee
Springfield, Missouri

Thank you for your Hy-Vee Coupon Booklet Fundraiser!!!  We've raised $195 so far towards our organizational goal of saving 3 years annual budget.

http://www.hy-vee.com/

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To check out Visual Manna visit

http://www.visualmanna.com/

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The Independent Scholar is a tabloid-sized newspaper published four times yearly by The Homeschool Press of Southwest Missouri in Springfield, Missouri.  Each quarterly issue contains 20 pages of current, relevant information by and about independent learners in our area.  Read about events, achievements, resources, and happenings all in one place.   All of our articles and photographs are submitted by homeschoolers and single-handedly published as a not-for-profit service by one very busy local homeschooling mom.  Support us by subscribing and advertising.

http://theindependentscholarnewspaper.com/default.aspx

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WE NEED SPONSORS!!! Are you a business owner or do you have your own home business? Do you have a hobby you are passionate about and would set up a display and share your knowledge with a bunch of homeschool kids? Are you a coop or a playgroup for homeschoolers? Are you passionate about a certain topic, and want to share your knowledge?  For more information on how to become a sponsor, Email Pamela at Homeedfieldtrips@aol.com or phone 417-595-7153.

Or use the webform and type "sponsor" in the comments box:

http://fieldtripsonline.org/register.html

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WE NEED VOLUNTEERS, SIGN UP NOW :) Please find your spot to volunteer at http://www.fieldtripsonline.org/volunteer.htm

Pamela and kids :)

Join and support the FIELD TRIPS!!! team

http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/swmissouri/pamelacooper?faf=1&e=3234260847

FIELD TRIPS!!! General Information:

FIELD TRIPS!!! is a non-profit organization for home education families. There are no membership fees required to join FIELD TRIPS!!! To cover our quarterly website maintenance fees, domain name, internet connection, EduFairs!, Pam's Gasoline for FIELD TRIPS!!! functions, and annual organizational fees to the state of Missouri, a surcharge of 50c to $1 is added to all prepays. This policy began when FIELD TRIPS!!! was formed to prevent Pam to pay out-of-pocket. Pam does not receive any salary, nor does anybody else, strictly service from the heart.  All participating families are required to have a signed FIELD TRIPS!!! waiver on file, these are signed at your first FIELD TRIP!!!

Prepays are no refunds and no-shows are considered donations. Carefully read your Confirmation email regarding any prepaid FIELD TRIPS!!! This Confirmation email will state meeting instructions. If you do not check-in with Pamela at the designated time/place, your prepays are considered donations and will be freely distributed to families who show up space-available. I'm firm about check-in times, as my son says, "Movies don't wait!"  We want to ensure that all spaces are used.  If you don't get a Confirmation email, CALL ME before 7am on the FIELD TRIP!!! day at 417-595-7153.

Meteor Shower

Tonight and tomorrow are the best nights to see the Perseids. The Perseids are typically fast and bright meteors. They radiate from a point in the constellation Perseus the Hero. You don’t need to know Perseus to watch the shower because the meteors appear in all parts of the sky. The Perseids are considered by many people to be the year’s best shower, and often peak at 50 or more meteors per hour in a dark sky.

http://www.chiff.com/science/perseids.htm
http://stardate.org/nightsky/meteors

This event happens every August, and last for several days.  Some disagree on what nights are best (probably depends on what part of the county you are in), but most agree 3-4 hours before dawn is the best time.  Google it or check out the above websites for your area.

Garden Woes

Lovely...  One of our labs is eating the ripe concord grapes straight off the vine.

The chickens are eating the tomatoes off the plants (evidently they did not read the chicken book that says they aren't supposed to like tomatoes)....

So far, all the other farm animals are behaving.

For Christian Singles in NW Missouri....

Hello,
 Please allow me to introduce myself.  I am Matthew Burnett.  I am a 23 year old Christian and home school graduate living at Cameron, Missouri.

I lead a Christian singles group called Peradventure. We meet in Cameron on Friday nights, and want to extend an invitation to other young Christian singles who are looking for a opportunity for fellowship and meeting like-minded people. We are not exclusively a homeschool graduate group, but so far all of our members have been. It is very casual, but with a serious purpose. We are nondenominational and not out to convert anyone, but welcome different faiths. There is not a set age range, but I am focusing on 20-Somethings, or those in their teens or 30's. We are presently studying the book: What He Must Be by Voddie Baucham.  Our mission statement and the directions are below.

Directions to the Old School in Cameron

From Interstate 35 exit onto Highway 36 west

Exit from Highway 36 at the overpass onto Highway 69 (Walnut Street.)

Drive south into town to the 3rd stoplight, where Walnut intersects 4th Street.

There is a gas station on the northwest corner (right hand side,) and a car dealership on the southeast corner (left hand side.)

Turn west (right) onto 4th Street.

Drive 3 blocks on 4th to Cherry Street.

The Old School is a 3 story brick building on the north side of 4th Street, between the 2nd and 3rd blocks.

McCorkle Park is on the other side of 4th Street.

Turn north (right) onto Cherry Street.

Turn right again into the parking lot of the Old School, and park.

The meeting is in on the 2nd floor.  Entering the building from either the front or the back, you will walk up one flight of stairs.

I believe that it is important to have name for this group and the vision that it entails, instead of merely calling it a singles group.  It is a singles group, but that phrase does not lend itself well to the full picture of all of the plans that I have in mind for this project, and much like “homeschooling” the word likely means different things to different people based upon their experiences.  Since I consider this a simple yet fairly original idea in all its many facets, I think it is best to have a name that will eventually express who we are, instead of a term that might not.

per·ad·ven·ture

adv. Archaic

Perhaps; perchance.

n.

Chance or uncertainty; doubt.

[Middle English per aventure, from Old French, by chance : per, through (from Latin; see per) +aventure, chance; see adventure.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

I chose this for several reasons.  First of all, it gives a nod to potentiality; in that the purpose of this group is to find spouses.  Second, the word obviously has adventure within it, which is appropriate since I consider this project an adventure.  Third, the word is an archaic one, and although I do not think that the past has all the answers, I do think that past traditions are worth examining for guidance in the present.

Mission Statement for Peradventure

The fundamental purposes of Peradventure are to create an opportunity for eligible Christian single men and women with the future intent to marry to become acquainted, to provide a community of friends to prevent loneliness in the meantime, and to help our members grow and mature with education and experience in order to be better future spouses.


Possible activities (keeping our nonexistent budget and the mission statement in mind.)

Guest speaker, book discussion, scavenger hunt, movies, bowling, day trip, art or history museum, board or card games,  cooking/ potluck meal/cookout, plays, miniature golf, tie-dye, obscure holiday party.

We meet Friday nights, 7:00 PM at the Old School, 2nd floor.  The address is 116 West 4th Street, Cameron.

If you have any questions please call, Matthew Burnett, (816) 575-2798.

Homeschool book sale in Cameron Missouri

Zion Prep Academy Homeschool Coop

Used Curriculm Swap & Shop

Friday, August 17th

10 am - 2 pm

Cameron (Missouri) American Legion

11417 NE Highway 69

Please forward on! 

There will be lots of curriculum to shop from.

free Reading Comprehension

Have you tried Book Adventure??  We have used it for several years, my girls have outgrown it now, as they are all high schoolers and read on a college level.  I highly recommend this site.

This one is for everyone, not just homeschoolers.  The program states it is for up to grade 8, but if your child is above grade 8 in school, but below grade 8 in reading skills, I would think you would still want to use it.

Points are earned for reading and answering the comprehension questions following.  My girls used to get highlights magazine as a prize from this site--subscriptions were just for a few months, but they would rotate it between the 3 of them for a full year subscription.

Check it out!

Needing Kansas City MO area girls to play volleyball

Do you have a 5th-8th grade girl wanting to play volleyball?  We are looking for beginning level players to fill out a team for the KC East Lions.  The cost is $125 for the season.  They have already started practice at First Baptist of Raytown, but it is not too late to join.  They are practicing Mon, Tue, and Thur for the next 2 weeks and after that it would be a practice on Thursday and games on Monday.  This is a great opportunity for girls to meet other homeschool girls and play a fun sport.  At this level the focus is on having fun, while learning how to play volleyball.  If your daughter is at all interested in playing volleyball and is in this age group, this is an excellent opportunity to try it out. The games will be at Blue Valley Activity Center.  Practice this week is at 3:30 on Tuesday and 5:30 on Monday and Thursday.  Feel free to come by to watch practice and talk to a coach or contact me for more info--I will then put you in touch with the proper person!!

My girls did this this summer and loved it!!!  Christian coach and well behaved parents and team members...(I say well behaved parents because I have been involved in sporting events in the past where parents were NOT sportsmen like).  We just have too much on our plate this fall to do the fall one.

This years homeschooling plan....

We are somewhat changing our homeschooling plan for this year.

In the past, the girls have shared my PC and only done a few things school wise on the computer (such as their typing class and some online courses I purchased).  This year, we are doing most of our schoolwork on computer.

Most of our work will be SOS (Switched on Schoolhouse).  Since we school year around, our year actually began July 1.  I started them with some electives at that point, which included SOS History of Missouri, and Health.  We also added in Amanda Bennetts Elections 2012 and Digital Photography. (Amanda Bennett has WOMDERFUL unit studies, that are not expensive at all, and can be reused many times).

I have ordered, but not yet received SOS language, math/algebra 1, history/geography/civics , science and language.

Each of the girls now has her own working laptop and later on I am planning on having a neighboring homeschool family help me to create a home network to link them together. These are the same boys who I sometimes hire to help with fencing and such.

SOS does not require you to be online as you do your lessons, although you do need to get online to check for updates and such.  It is more expensive, but I have bought most of mine used, and can use it for all the kids, so the price is much more reasonable.

Amanda Bennetts unit studies work better if you are online, because all through them she has links you can click on for online assistance, illustrations, videos, examples and such.

We are finding it much easier to work when away from home when you only have to take your laptop, instead of 3 totes full of books and materials.  There is still some writing, reading and such that is required, but no actual textbooks at this point.  This is also giving them more computer skills that they will need for college. (All the girls are now in highschool).

Of course we will still be attending our weekly homeschool coop, the annual science fair, annual spelling bee, music lessons, church and youth group, sports, fieldtrips, community choir, church camps, science camp, 4H and scouting and such.  We count all those activities as part of our schooling as well.  And, no all these activities don't always occur at the same time--some are a once a year event!!

Free Homeschool Planner

Want a free online lesson planner, scheduler and tracker??  Visit Homeschool Skedtrack.  It is set up to be used for students prek thru 12.

It appears to be very similar to Homeschool Tracker, which is what we use.

I know of others who have created their own spreadsheets and some who track it all by hand.

What do you use??

I counldn't resist this one......

This is for you Dad!!!

Free Kids Clinics at Lowe's this Summer

from Freely Educate

Freebies including Goggles, Apron, and a Wooden Project at Lowe's Build & Grow Free Kids Clinics

Lowe's (the home improvement store chain) offer free kids' clinics this Summer. Your child can attend the clinic to build a free wooden project and receive an apron, goggles, and patch free! This Summer, Lowe's teamed up with DreamWorks animation to offer projects with favorite movie themes.  

Visit Lowe's and see what is offered in your area.

If you don't subscribe to freelyeducate.com, you should!!!

Homeschooling in the St Louis MO area????

IF YOU ARE NEW TO HOMESCHOOLING OR PERHAPS YOU ARE JUST THINKING ABOUT IT, HERE IS THE CHANCE TO GET SOME INFORMATION FROM SEASONED VETERANS IN AN INTIMATE SETTING
 Where? St. Andrew Catholic Church Cafeteria, 309 Hoffmeister, St. Louis, MO 63123
 (intersection of Military and Hoffmeister…park in the parking lot behind the church complex and look for a sign on the school building)

 When?  Thursday, August 30, 2012
 Time?    7:00 p.m.

 Who? Conducted by SHARE leaders: Cathy Mullins, Kerrie Tate

 Price? FREE! But registration is required, so we know how many to prepare for!

 Topics to be covered include:
 * Missouri State Law                       * Teaching Approaches
 * Logging hours                               * Tips and inspirations
 * Choosing Curriculum  * Question/Answer Time
 * Lesson Planning

 Note: No Childcare provided tonight. You may bring your children, however, they must sit quietly at the table with you.

 Got Questions? Need to Register?
 Please e-mail Cathy Mullins at Ekcjmullins@gmail.com  so that we know how many to prepare for. You may also sign up on the calendar at the SHARE website:  www.homeschool-life.com/mo/share
 There will be handouts and refreshments!

Got one back... (kid)

Elizabeth has been at science camp "Biotech Summer Academy" since Sunday evening at Missouri Western.  They finished up this afternoon and we just got home from picking her up.  The others remain at CIY until Friday.

This was a free camp that they offered.  It was the result of a 2 year grant, and this was the second year.  However, they came in under budget last  year and this year, and have money remaining.  Hopefully they will offer the camp again next year with the remaining funds.
They got to extract DNA, visit the planetarium and did several chemistry experiments in the lab.

The campers stayed in the dorms and ate on campus.  They moved out this afternoon in time for the Kansas City Chiefs to be moving in on Friday, to start their training.

Book and curriculum sale Kansas City area

AUGUST 4th, 2012

NEW AIR CONDITIONED LOCATION FOR THIS YEAR'S SALE!!!!

PLEASE FORWARD TO ALL KC AREA HOMESCHOOL GROUPS!

Support Metro Homeschool Robotics Team Annual Used Book/Curriculum SALE

If you are in need of materials for the 2012-2013 school year, whether you are new to homeschooling or an "old pro" this is the sale you will not want to miss. There are literally thousands AND thousands of books and materials, sorted by subject, publisher and grade.


Consignments and/or donations will be accepted through August 3rd, 2012, please contact Lara Chartier for how to label consignment items at LLChart@yahoo.com Donated materials do not need to be labeled.

WHAT
Sell, Donate or Buy Textbooks, Workbooks, Software, Equipment, Educational Games, Instruments, etc. A percentage of each sale will be donated to the Metro Homeschool Robotics Team (MHR), the balance will be given to the seller. Seller determines the % of sales to be given to  MHR, we ask a minimum of 20%.

When
Thursday, August 2nd, 2012
5:00pm-7:00pm       Consignment Drop Off, unless other arrangements have been made.
6:00pm-8:00pm       Pre-Sale for "Donor/Seller Early Access Pass" Only


Friday, August 3rd, 2012
6:00pm-7:00pm       Consignment Drop Off, unless other arrangements have been made.
6:00pm-7:00pm       Pre-Sale for "Donor/Seller Early Access Pass" Only

Saturday, August 4th, 2012
9:00am-3:00pm      Curriculum Sale, OPEN TO EVERYONE
5:00pm-6:00pm      Pick Up of Unsold Materials

6:01pm                   All materials not picked up will be donated to MHR

Monday, August 9th, 2012-Friday, August 13th, 2012
Checks will be mailed to sellers.

WHERE
3001 West GeoSpace Drive, Independence, MO 64056

Phone at the "Caves" (no cell service inside) 816-256-8448, if not during the actual sale, please call Lara at 530-391-8968 (cell)



,_._,___

No kids this week-its very quiet.  Emily and Rebecca are at CIY (Christ in Youth), and Elizabeth is at science camp.  Next week we have art camp, and then a weekend retreat back at church camp.  Then camp will be over for the summer season.
Despite the garden beds being watered daily, we are loosing ground.  The temps seem to stay around 100 or higher, and the plants are about wore out.
Tonight I picked several tomatoes, onions, peppers and cucumbers.  Sadly I didn't see anymore cucumbers coming on soon.

I have been making a lot of salsa.  Ideally I want to can it, but it gets eaten to fast.

finely diced fresh tomatoes -  stems removed
finely diced onion
finely diced pepper of choice (I like bell pepper while husband prefers a hot pepper)
Juice of one lime
chopped cilantro (I just cut it with scissors--its quicker)
Salt and pepper to taste
pinch of oregano
pinch of garlic


I start with the lime juice and salt and pepper in the bowl, then add my diced veggies, and keep stirring.  The flavors blend best if you let it sit overnight.  The next day, drain off any excess liquid and enjoy.


As for the veggie amounts, just add what you have on hand or what your tastes are.  You can make the batch small, for one serving, or a caner full to put up.

An Update on the Westboro Baptist Church and Edgerton MO

I have had several ask me for an update on the Westboro Baptist Church scheduled visit to Edgerton MO to picket the Celebration of Life service for the sisters who were murdered.

Hundreds of people showed to block the protesters from Westboro.  However, Westboro did not show up (they had on their church website they were coming).  Either they realized they would be blocked or, they went elsewhere.  (I saw on one news site that they were going to Aurora Colorado to picket the mass shooting that occurred at the movie theater. http://www.examiner.com/article/the-westboro-church-plans-to-picket-the-aurora-shooting-memorial-service )

I can't help but wonder what these people are thinking.

If one of their own dies (if one hasn't already, at some point one will-no one lives forever) do they picket their own funeral?  Or do they disown the person?  Or do they lay the blame on the doctor involved or someone else?

Hummm....Something to think about

Its a birthday!!!!!

The younger twins are 14 today.  Doesn't seem like they should be.

Yesterday we had a girls day and went to Independence MO to the Adventure Oasis water park http://www.ci.independence.mo.us/parksandrec/AdvenOasis.aspx with a groupon.  Instead of  paying $25  to get in, we got in 4 for $18.  It was crowded, but thinned out as soon as the summer school kids and preschools/daycares left.

I spent most of my time floating on a raft down the lazy river, while the girls also explored the water slides,

Today will be presents and the cake/ice cream, and later we will have another day out with a movie.

Hard to believe they are now highschoolers......

Elizabeth and Rebecca at one month old

Emily age 3, Rebecca and Elizabeth age 1

Em 4, Rebecca  3 and Elizabeth 3

Elizabeth age 3 1/2

Rebecca age 3 1/2

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRLS!!!!  Enjoy 14.  Momma is proud of the young ladies you are all becoming.

Help us fight the Westboro Baptist Church

If you read my post from a few days ago, then you are aware that two young mothers, who were sisters, t in our rural area were murdered.  The killer confessed and is behind bars.  Tomorrow (Friday) is the girls memorial service.

I am sure you are aware of the Westboro Baptist Church out of Kansas.  They are the ones who picket solders funerals, picketed Joplin after the tornado and more.  It is on their website, http://www.godhatesfags.com/schedule.html  that they plan to picket the service tomorrow.

If you are in our part of Missouri and want to help block them, this is the notice that is being sent around by the woman who is in charge of it.  I know nothing other than what is below:

• Mt. Zion Baptist Church 5705 hwy Z in Edgerton, Mo

• The Westboro Baptist Church has posted on their picket schedule that they will picket the memorial service of Britny Haarup and Ashley Key in Edgerton tomorrow! I would like to organize a group to head up there to keep these monsters away from the church and the family! Who's with me? Let's try to be there by 6pm. If you live in Smithville and would like to follow up there, try to be there by 5:40 in the City Hall parking lot. Their schedule says they will be there from 6:30-7:45, but we should allow for plenty of time to get organized! Also, please remember 2 things: Wear bright colors in honor of the girls and this is a silent counter protest. Do not speak to these monsters, or engage them in any way. We are here just to serve as a shield between them and the family and friends of Britny and Ashley AND a note from the minister, Jeff Hume: Just a reminder: As a pastor at Mt. Zion we want to ask that any counter protests be peaceful and positive. Jesus commanded Christians to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven." We don't hate these people - to do so would only bring us down to their level. However, we do not have give in to their tactics. My prayer is that we would be at Mt. Zion in support of the families who a mourning and celebrating the lives of Briny and Ashley. In the process we will show Westboro how a community demonstrates love towards others.

SlimKicker.com

My young friend Christine, helped to create a really neat app.  You can use it on your phone or one your computer.    I have just started using it, and I find it a good motivator to stay on track with diet and exercise, and it also provides information if you are cooking for a diabetic or someone with restrictions.

http://www.slimkicker.com/ is the site.

It is very simple to use.  You just fill in some basic info, (which remains private) such as your age, weight, height and exercise level. It will then tell you how many calories you should be taking in daily.  As you eat (or are trying to decide what to eat) you enter your food and number of servings.  It then tells you the calories and other nutrition information and tracks it for you.

In addition, you can also log your exercise and it will tell you how many calories you have burned and will track it for you.

You can also find recipes.

Not only can us moms use this for fitness or weight loss, but also can be applied for some homeschooling uses such as home-ec, PE (for the exercise) or health classes.

Our body is the Lord's temple, so we should treat it well!!

AND IT IS FREE!!!

Christine, I think you did a great job with this and I wish I had started with this earlier!!  Please check it out and contact her with your feedback.

Three missing area women in the past month

The vehicle that the two missing Edgerton MO women, sisters Britny Haarup and Ashley Key, were believed to have been in has now been found along a country road near the county line.  This is not far from us.  Anyone with information is asked to call the Platte County Sheriff's Office at 816-858-3521 or the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.
++7-15-2012 Update.  Sources now say there was blood found on a couch in the home, and some guns are missing, evidently normally kept at the home.  There was no physical evidence found in the truck or in the area around the truck.

***http://www.kmbc.com/news/kansas-city/2-bodies-found-arrest-made-in-search-for-2-missing-women/-/11664182/15526052/-/view/print/-/3hcjr6z/-/index.html
10:30 pm update, it appears the 2 missing Edgerton womens bodies have been found, and an arrest made.  Please pray for the families.....per KMBC news.  

A Lathrop MO 50 year old woman, Carol Thompson  disappeared June 15 between 2 and 6 a.m.,  and still has not been found.  Carol has MS and can not walk far, it is felt she was taken.  

If you see anything, lock your doors and call one of the above numbers or 911.

The under rated important farm hand

Chevelle is supposed to belong to Emily.  She got her as a tiny kitten from her friend.  But, if you know anything about cats then you know you don't own a cat.  So, Chevelle owns our family....  That is just how it is when you have a cat.

She isn't a pampered house cat. My husband is allergic to cats.  She is a more important cat than that.  She is a hired hand on this farm.  We pay her with food, love and attention, and put up with her kittens and their tricks.

Her job is very important--she is our certified critter control specialist, and she is very very good at it.  She is safer than a trap or poison, which could kill our chickens.  She keeps mice out of the grain and feed, and the moles out of my garden beds.

We know she does her job well, as she brings us her captures.  I supposed this is her way of showing her love....Kind of like when our husband brings home the fish or deer after his day of hunting.   Yesterday I was gifted with a mole. (Lovely...)  Today she came running up from the back pasture with what appears to be a huge mouse or a small rat.  EWWWW.    She doesn't eat them, she just likes to deposit them either at the garage door, or by my car door.  Thankfully she does not leave them at the front door (yet), but should you ever come over and find a dead critter present at the door, you will know she is on guard.   She has also caught small snakes as well, and is very good at leaping to catch flies in her mouth.  Never has she gone after my chickens or the rabbit.

I have to throw them out in the fence line away from the house when she isn't looking (I don't want to hurt her feelings).  If I don't, she promptly brings it right back to me, as if to say, "hey, you lost your gopher or mouse, I brought it back, be more careful next time" .

Yesterdays gopher or mole left at my vehicle door..

Today, either a huge mouse or small rat left at the garage door.

Our dogs also serve a purpose.  If stock gets out, they are alerting us, and Bo when younger would often help round them back up-Duke is still working on that skill.  If someone comes in the driveway that doesn't belong here they alert us.  If someone gets into the barn to steal something, the will "feel" the presence of Duke rather quickly-most likely on their rear end.  He has already run off one questionable character, saving me from having to call 911.

They are also very good at carrying firewood from the woodpile tot he house.  I do mean firewood as in logs, no kindling for them.

Of course when not working, they are on recreation duty, playing fetch with the girls.

Seventeen Magazine and teen girls.....

If you have young girls that read Seventeen Magazine, take a look at this post....

 http://frugal-fabulous.blogspot.com/2012/05/call-me-old-fashion.html

We don't take this magazine for several reasons, this being one of them.

How hot is it???

This is from my friend Kathy B in south MO..... 

IT'S SO HOT in Missouri.....the birds have to use potholders to pull the worms out of the ground.

.....the trees are whistling for the dogs.

.....the best parking place is determined by shade instead of distance

.....hot water comes from both taps.

.....you can make sun tea instantly.

.....you learn that a seat belt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.

.....the temperature drops below 90 F and you feel a little chilly.

.....you discover that in June it only takes two fingers to steer your car.

.....you discover that you can get sunburned through your car window.

.....you actually burn your hand opening the car door.

.....you break into a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 A.M.

.....your biggest motorcycle wreck fear is, "What if I get knocked out and end up lying on the pavement and cook to death"?

.....you realize that asphalt has a liquid stage.

.....the potatoes cook underground, so all you have to do is pull one out and add butter.

.....the cows are giving evaporated milk.

.....farmers are feeding their chickens crushed ice to keep them from laying boiled eggs.

IT'S SO DRY IN Missouri that the Baptists are starting to baptize by sprinkling, the Methodists are using wet-wipes, the Presbyterians are giving rain checks, and the Catholics are praying for the wine to turn back into water!

Prayers please

My niece Kami could sure use some prayers right now.  She just moved into an apartment complex in Little Rock, AR and lost everything in a fire.  The building is a complete loss.  She even lost her car keys, but she and her dog got out safe.  She had not started her renters insurance yet.  She had just gotten a job with a school, but it won't start until the school year does.  She is a wonder Christian mom to a son who is in college and was away at school at the time of the fire.

I lost most everything in a fire in 2001.  You don't realize what you are missing for years-when you go looking for something that you no longer have.  What hurts the most is loosing the photos, kids art and school work and items such as those.

Please keep her in your prayers.  Some friends of hers have started a bank account for her for donations.

Bank: One Banc (Little Rock, AR
Acct#: 43146751
Routing #: 082007830
Phone #: 501-370-5597


This was her facebook status this morning:


"This is self-therapy for my current PTSD symptoms: 
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you."

Planetarium in St Joseph MO is open to the public

On a personal note, our family has visited here a couple of times.  Some of the shows, do support evolution, so please screen them (the descriptions are very accurate).  They are high quality and you feel as if you are flying thru space as you watch them....


IF YOU GET MOTION SICKNESS....You might not want to watch the roller coaster thing at the end of the videos----its cool to watch, but my stomach had issues.


You must be on time, as the door is locked at show time.  YOU CANT GET IN IF YOU ARE LATE.  The room is darkened, seats recline and if someone opens the door to the lighted hallway, it ruins it, so late entries are prohibited.....


MWSU has an amazing planetarium.  It was recently remodeled, and stocked with an amazing array of awesome educational shows!



Check out the planetarium's website for details on shows, dates, tickets, contact info! 


http://www.missouriwestern.edu/planetarium/


A great way to include science education in a fun "theatre" experience!


Cary



Cary D. Chevalier, Ph.D.
Certified Wildlife Biologist


Department of Biology
Missouri Western State University
4525 Downs Dr.
St. Joseph, MO 64507
Ph: 816.271.4252
Email:  cchev@missouriwestern.edu

Homeschool day at Kansas Citys Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun

Greetings from Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun!


Home school instructors and students schedule thrills and family fun into their lesson plans at Kansas City’s premier entertainment complex.  With over235 acres of rides, shows, and attractions there is something for everyone!  Below, please find details on the upcoming Home School Day at Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun. 


ü Event Date – Friday, August 17, 2012.


ü No minimum ticket order.


ü Tickets can be purchased up to two days in advance of the event date.


ü One complimentary admission issued for every 15 Youth tickets purchased.


ü Visit http://www.worldsoffun.com/events/things-to-do/special-events/Home-School-Day to purchase tickets or for additional information.


Worlds of Fun Backyard BBQ
$10
All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Meal
BBQ Brisket, Fried Chicken, Hot Dogs, Bakes Beans, Potato Salad, Cookies, and Pepsi beverages







If you know home school families that would be interested in attending this event, please feel free to forward this email and the attached informational postcard.  If you offer a calendar of events that the event could be posted on, please forward the information requirements to groupsales@worldsoffun.com.  For additional questions or personal assistance, please call our Call Center at 816-454-4545. 





Regards,





Group Sales Office


Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun


4545 Worlds of Fun Avenue, Kansas City, MO  64161 | p: 816.454.4545 | f: 816.454.4655 | e:groupsales@worldsoffun.com

St Joseph MO area--need a music credit????

Informational Meeting for Griffon Junior Singers
Monday, July 16 – 6:30 pm
Missouri Western State University-St Joseph MO

Kemper Auditorium – First Floor Spratt Hall
(map can be found at http://www.missouriwestern.edu/map/;   park in Lot C)


As previously announced, Darren Verbick (Elementary Fine Arts Coordinator for St. Joseph Public Schools) and Ashley Kempt (Music Instructor at Noyes Elementary) have assumed the roles of Directors of Griffon Junior Singers. They are eager to assume responsibility for this long-standing program of vocal performance excellence.   They have wonderful ideas for the growth and development of Griffon Jr Singers and plan to expand on the excellent foundation of choral music education that is in place. 



Missouri Western State University will strive to be widely inclusive in our recruitment of singers, and will focus on local and regional performance opportunities that will be within financial reach of most families, using fund-raising activities to assist those families for whom even regional travel is cost-prohibitive.



For 2012-2013, Griffon Junior Singers will be reorganized into two levels – Prelude Choir (grades 2- 5, directed by Ashley) and Premiere Choir (grades 5 – 10, directed by Darren).  Both will practice on Wednesday nights, with practices beginning at 5:15 pm.



We are in the process of revising the Griffon Junior Singers Web site (see http://www.wi.missouriwestern.edu/Arts/gjs.asp).  Following the July 16 meeting, the Web site will include a summary of the information presented, plus a brief video by Darren and Ashley.



We hope you will attend the July 16 meeting, and that you will share our excitement for the 2012-2013 Griffon Junior Singers season.

Fair, July 4 and Camp

Late June thru the first week of August is one of our business times of the year.  Its hay season, science camp,  church camp, Girl Scout Camp, CIY ( Christ in Youth), County 4H fair, July 4, family reunion and gardening.

Part of the girls 4H projects have already been turned in, but we still have the small animal show to go along, with the speech contest.

Sunday afternoon Em leaves for church camp again (so far she has done one week as a camper and one week as a helper), and the twins start Girl Scout camp as helpers for the younger scouts.
So, it will be quieter around here this week.

The garden is doing well, but we are having to water the beds every other night.  We did have a setback with some giant green worms eating the potato plants, but we overcame them...

Emily painted this bale for the July 4th party we had.  The bale sits by the edge of our long driveway as you enter.

Ugly hungry beasts...We picked them off, used one application of sevan dust and haven't seen any since.  Five of them stripped my potato plants in less than 9 hours. 

July 4 we had our church, my family and my husbands family up for a cookout.  Our county is under a no burn order, so fireworks were very much limited--to stuff on the ground.  But all the kids still had fun.

Homeschool Robotics Team Sale

REVISED DATES!!!! Please Note Sale on AUGUST 4th!!!

NEW AIR CONDITIONED LOCATION FOR THIS YEAR'S SALE!!!!

PLEASE FORWARD TO ALL KC AREA HOMESCHOOL GROUPS!

Support Metro Homeschool Robotics Team 3rd Annual Used Book/Curriculum SALE

If you are in need of materials for the 2012-2013 school year, whether you are new to homeschooling or an "old pro" this is the sale you will not want to miss. There are literally thousands AND thousands of books and materials, sorted by subject, publisher and grade. Are you on a budget? This year each subject will have a separate $1 section.

This might only be our 3rd sale, but it will knock your socks off. This year's event will be twice the size of last year as more consignees and more donations are pouring into our new location. Consignments and/or donations will be accepted through August 3rd, 2012, please contact Lara Chartier for how to label consignment items at LLChart@yahoo.com. Donated materials do not need to be labeled.

WHAT
Sell, Donate or Buy Textbooks, Workbooks, Software, Equipment, Educational Games, Instruments, etc. A percentage of each sale will be donated to the Metro Homeschool Robotics Team (MHR), the balance will be given to the seller. Seller determines the % of sales to be given to  MHR, we ask a minimum of 20%.


When
Thursday, August 2nd, 2012
5:00pm-7:00pm       Consignment Drop Off, unless other arrangements have been made.
6:00pm-8:00pm       Pre-Sale for "Donor/Seller Early Access Pass" Only



Friday, August 3rd, 2012
6:00pm-7:00pm       Consignment Drop Off, unless other arrangements have been made.
6:00pm-7:00pm       Pre-Sale for "Donor/Seller Early Access Pass" Only


Saturday, August 4th, 2012
9:00am-3:00pm      Curriculum Sale, OPEN TO EVERYONE
5:00pm-6:00pm      Pick Up of Unsold Materials

6:01pm                   All materials not picked up will be donated to MHR

Monday, August 9th, 2012-Friday, August 13th, 2012
Checks will be mailed to sellers.

WHERE
3001 West GeoSpace Drive, Independence, MO 64056



Phone at the "Caves" (no cell service inside) 816-256-8448, if not during the actual sale, please call Lara at 530-391-8968.

HOW
To  Sell:
Contact Lara Chartier at   530-391-8968 or email LLChart@yahoo.com with your name, address,   phone number and email.
Using ½ of a 3"x5" index   card OR the Excel Spread Sheet will be sent with your confirmation; you must   label all products to be sold.
Price all items to the   nearest dollar, this will save time at check out.
Items to be grouped   together must be rubber banded, bagged or plastic wrapped securely. MHR is not   responsible for lost/separated items.
Securely tape "Seller   Card" in the bottom right corner of the item. Every item must be labeled. If   part of a set, only put a price on the top book and write "set" on the other   books.
Large items, such as an   electronic piano style keyboard, can be sold by making an ad and posting at   the sale. Contact Lara for more details.
Drop off anytime during   the normal drop off schedule (you do not need to sign up for a specific time).   We are not offering alternate drop off locations this year as we have combined   the drop off time and the Early Access Sale together.

To Donate:
Contact Lara Chartier at   530-391-8968 or email LLChart@yahoo.com with   your name, phone number and email.
Drop off anytime during   the normal drop off schedule (you do not need to sign up for a specific time).   For a large quantity of items being donated, contact Lara to schedule a   meeting location or pick up.

 At the Sale:
Bring a laundry basket, milk crate or bags to transport your items.
We understand that due  to circumstances that you may need to bring your children with you; please try   to keep it to a minimum as space is limited. Your child(ren) must be at your   side at ALL times.
Items will be grouped by   subject and grade level to allow for easy access. All DVDs, CDs and software   will be sold near the check out.
This is strictly a cash   and carry sale. No Exceptions.
We ask that everyone   respect all materials being sold.


Pick Up:
Unless other   arrangements are made, pick up will be from 5-6pm on Saturday.
All items that are not   picked up by 6:01pm, unless prior arrangement has been made, will be   considered a donation to MHR.


VOLUNTEERING
If you would like to help with the sale, please contact Lara Chartier at 530-391-8968 or LLChart@yahoo.com. We have the following opportunities for Volunteers, each shift is 4 hours.
Drop Off   Assistant
Set Up and Sorting of   Materials
Sale Helper
Check Out Helper
Clean Up


__._,_.___

Support Clinton County MO 4H

Saturday, 6-23-2012 everyone is invited to come out and check out Clinton County 4-H exhibits enjoy dinner BBQ that will help support the Clinton County 4-H scholarship fund. Dinner from 5 to 7 at the Plattsburg Youth Building on 116 east (between Plattsburg and Lathrop on the south side of the road). $8 for adults and $5 for kids 6 to 12. or $25 for a family.

Also we will be having silent auction baskets as well for you to bid on.  I got a glimpse of just a few of the silent auction items earlier, and saw a chainsaw carved wooden bear, gift certificates for a free American Heart Association CPR and First Aid class, and a large tote of craft items for a busy summer of artwork for your child.  Many many more items in addition to bid on.

If you come earlier, you can catch some of the shooting sports activities outside.

For those near the Kansas City MO-FREE College Prep Night

FRIDAY JUNE 29TH 7-9pm

If you're child is in 8th grade or up they you may be interested in attending the FREE Homeschool College Prep/Best Practices Night from 7-9pm on Friday June 29th, at Soutwoods Christian Church, 161st and Metcalf, Overland, Park.  You need to RSVP and register at 913-912-9513 or at homeschoolcounselor.com/events.  SPACE IS LIMITED!

If you can't attend the meeting the websight has some good info. also (homeschoolcounselor.com).

Do not e-mail me with your information you must respond to the phone # or the websight registration

We are back!!

For security reasons, I never blog ahead of time when we will be gone......
But, we are back!!

Since my last post, we have been in a whirlwind it seems.  Graduations, parties, orthodontic appointments (on fast track due to our dentist about to get married and be gone some, and the girls being gone for camp) volleyball games, funeral, a wedding coming up, and church camp.

Tonight marks the beginning of the 4H county fair, with the first shoot off.  Rebecca shoots the 22, so she will shoot tonight. (She is my snake killer).  This week will be busy with the fair, then it will end in July with small animals and the horse show.

Emily spent one week at Mission Lake Christian Camp in Horton KS, and other as a helper for Junior High week at Flaming Spirit Christian Camp in Oregon MO.  The twins spent 2 weeks at Flaming Spirit Christian Camp as helpers.  Since they are leaving 8th and entering 9th, they went both Jr High week and High School week.  The weather was much nicer this year--not as hot and humid as last summer.  I was also at Flaming Spirit as camp EMT.  Its been fun the last few years watching the same kids come back each summer and grow in the Lord and also physically.

While we were at camp, it rained at home once, and I had my garden watered once, so it did very well while we were gone.  I picked peas before we left, but I managed to kill them.....so, I replanted when we got back.  I put the wrong bucket of fertilizer on them, and fried them....Thought I had the aged bucket, but didn't.  So, Elizabeth and I pulled them up and added them to the compost bin, removed half of the fertilizer and topsoil from that bed, then added in more topsoil and replanted the peas.  I also planted more beans as I tried to use some old seed up and all of it didn't sprout--so I filled in the holes.

I came back to find a  whole bunch of tomatoes coming on, lots of cucumbers, some peppers, carrots, and my herbs have really taken off, especially my dill, mints and cilantro.  I pan on making lots of salsa this year.

I went by Porters Lumber in Kearney and noticed then had sale signs on their plants outside, so I picked up a few more veggies for 45 and 75 cents each, so I managed to squeeze them in the ground as well.

It has been dry, very dry.  Our ponds are down several feet and there are large cracks in the yard.  However, having raised garden beds is easier on the watering as I only water the beds, and not an entire garden with water going into empty spaces.

Our hay is cut now.  It started out looking like me might get 3 cuttings of hay this year.  Now it is so dry, this might be the only one.....

Future dill pickles, and cucumbers with onion....

This method is an experiment for me this year.....Pallets contain beans (which I used old seed, so I just replanted with new seed) and okra.

Dill, peppermint, spearmint, cilantro, sage, basil, catnip and several other herbs are in the bed.  The blocks contain garlic.

This bed has brussel sprouts, cabbage and an unknown.......(market got misplaced)

pumpkins are blooming

Peppers--this plant has 3 peppers and 4 more blooms

I have around 30 tomato plants in this bed.  The bottom is mulched with straw to keep weeds out, keeps the tomatoes from bottom burn-which causes rot, and keeps moisture in.

Can't wait for them to ripen!  Probably close to 75 tomatoes and lots more in bloom

Normally this back pond would be way over this calf's head

Swimming to keep cool!