Life in Lomas

SAT Question of the Day

2009-04-14T11:10:00.005-05:00

Although Alex won't be taking the SAT or the ACT for at least two more years, we have begun to practice. It is important for him to become accustomed to the test format. Most of the Math questions cover topics which he hasn't seen yet. We usually just skip these. But, We use language questions as vocabulary builders and to review grammar. You can sign-up to have these questions sent to you via email at the following website:

http://www.collegeboard.com/

They provide many other valuable services for the college bound and their parents as well.

A New Discovery!

2009-03-28T21:55:00.006-06:00

Facebook has been around for a long time. However, it is a new discovery for me. What a discovery!

I have been able to reconnect with old friends as well as keep in touch with my older children. Plus, it has a lot of fun educational games that both Alex and I enjoy playing.

It has memory games . . .

. . . geography games . . .

. . . and several vocabulary building games.

It even has several groups for homeschoolers. For anyone who hasn't signed up yet, I would highly recommend it.

What's on the Nightstand?

2009-03-25T13:15:00.007-06:00

Alex was beginning to read less so we put Free Reading back into our daily schedule. Right now he has chosen to read books from the American Library Association's list of the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books.

He just finished A Day No Pigs Would Die and he has begun Fallen Angels.

He likes reading these books and I enjoy discussing them with him.

You can find the list of the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books at the following link: http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/oif/bannedbooksweek/bbwlinks/100mostfrequently.cfm

Springtime in Lomas

2009-03-25T10:01:00.010-06:00

Normally when you think of Spring, you think of tulips . . .

. . . and ladybugs. . .

and butterflies.

In Mexico, we have scorpians . . .

. . . and chinches . . .

. . . and God only knows what.

It is not as warm and fuzzy. Although, I guess it would serve for an entomology study.

A Little Help From My Friends

2009-03-25T09:49:00.008-06:00

Yesterday, Alex was doing an experiment on erosion for his general science class.

Julie decided that he needed her help.

She is an expert at digging holes in the yard, but I don't think that she was really helpful this time.

Praise for the Makers of Wii

2009-03-20T10:31:00.008-06:00

Alex has entered some kind of growth spurt. He has a voracious appetite. Unfortunately, he is growing out more than he is growing up. We both were chastised at his last visit to the pediatrician. At 72 kilos (158 lbs) he is now officially obese. We made a plan and we are working on reducing his weight through diet (no more soda or junk food as well as portion control) and exercise. One of the things that he loves is his Wii Fit. Not only are the games fun, but he really likes how it keeps track of everything. I am just surprised at how much a computer game can make him sweat.

A Day at the Beach

2009-03-20T09:22:00.010-06:00

We were invited to a wedding in Acapulco this weekend and we decided to take advantage of the trip and take the boys along for a little family excursion.

This is the first time that Josh's body has seen the light of day in some time. I was glad to see him get some color and now I won't have to worry about him developing rickets.

Alex has a blast whenever we go to the beach. He spends the entire day in the ocean.

Josh even decided to get a massage. He has such a rough life!

Of course it wouldn't be a trip to the beach without burying Alex in the sand.

Even Alejandro enjoyed himself.

I think we wore the boys out.

Shaving for the 1st Time

2009-03-18T18:11:00.005-06:00

I have noticed that all of my children have been growing up lately as they tend to do. I miss the simplicity of the younger years. I was complaining one morning to Alex and asked him if he would please stay young for me for one more year. He said that he would and went to take his shower. When he gets out of the shower he tells me that he has shaved so that he will look younger for me. He saw my disappointment and told me, "Don't worry Mom. I didn't want to cut myself so I didn't press very hard. I really just cut the hairs in half. " I asked for it. This weekend, his Dad showed him how to shave properly.

The half hairs are gone . . .

. . . and he looks great, older, but great!

Get Out the Vote

2009-03-18T17:54:00.013-06:00

This is a very exciting election for many reasons, but especially because this is Tiffany's FIRST time to vote.

I voted early so that I could go with Tiffany today. Her grandmother and I ceremoniously took her to the designated polling place and I embarressed her to death by taking pictures nonstop.

She went over the sample ballot and she got in line.

Why does Tiffany look so sad?

The machine broke. We waited over an hour while a new machine was procured and installed.

It looked a little iffy for awhile. I think that there were just too many cooks in the kitchen.

In the end, it all worked out.

Tiffany got her ballot and headed for the booth.

I have never been so proud.

Good job, baby!

Halloween

2009-03-18T17:40:00.010-06:00

A big perk of being in the U.S. in October is Halloween. We have a pseudo Halloween where we live in Mexico, but it is just not the same. So this year, we did it up right. We carved pumpkins.

We put on costumes.

We went to parties to see old friends.

We rang a lot of doorbells and got a lot of candy.

We had a great time.

Haunted Corn Maze

2009-03-18T17:18:00.010-06:00

Although we lived in Maryville for a long time, I never got to go to the haunted corn maze at Maple Farms. I really wanted to go this year. So, my parents, my brother, my neice, Alex and I headed out for a spooky time. Below is the design that was cut into the cornfields. We entered at the bottom left-hand corner went all through the maze and exited again at the bottom left-hand corner. We had a blast.

It takes a very secure man to get behind a tractor cut-out and stick his face through the hole . This is why we love you brother.

Alex wasn't too sure of things once we entered the maze.

He had good reason to be concerned.

Kayla, however, wasn't bothered by a thing.

Toward the end of the maze some masked man with a chainsaw surprised us. I went to hug Alex to assure him that everything was alright only to find that Alex was no longer with us. He ran out of the maze and dove under the ticket table as if he was sliding into home. People applauded. I unfortunately will never get that red clay out of those khaki pants.

College Visits

2009-03-18T16:54:00.006-06:00

Tiffany's college search continues. She is considering approximately 30 colleges and universities. To help her narrow her list down. We decided to go on a road trip. We wanted to Lorelai and Rory it, but we really didn't have time. We visited 4 schools in 3 days: Appalachian State University, University of North Carolina, James Madison University, and University of Virginia.

We only got lost once . . . well, maybe twice . . . we certainly did not get lost more than three times.

We also got to see some friends along the way who were able to give us a realistic picture of their schools.

It was a whirlwind trip, but it really helped Tiffany discover what she wants from a school.

Fall Festival

2009-03-18T16:37:00.008-06:00

Alex and I went to Tennessee this Fall. We were fortunate enough to arrive in time for the Fall Festival. We love to go, but after seeing the sign below I wasn't sure how much fun we were going to have.

Alex started with the climbing wall sponsored by the U. S. Army.

He liked it, but I think that he like the freebies more, dog tags, pens and book covers. We have been receiving recruiter information ever since. He is too young guys; you can't have him yet.

We moved on to a dog training exhibition. It was truly impressive. I can't even get my dog to stop relieving himself all over the house.

Alex decided to try bull riding next.

It is not as easy as it looks.

Alex's cousin, Demi, wasn't interested in the bull riding. She decided to have her face painted. I think that she looks fantastic.

Hot or Cold?

2009-03-18T16:19:00.004-06:00

Alex did an experiment on how temperature affects the speed at which molecules move. First, he filled one glass with cold water and one glass with boiling water. Then, he added food coloring to see in which glass the food coloring blended most quickly.

I think that he had a little too much fun.

Finally!

2009-03-18T16:15:00.002-06:00

I have been looking for the cord to download the photos from my camara to my computer for 6 months. I haven't found it yet. However, I did find a cord that will work. Yea! So I can finally start blogging again. I am doin a happy dance!

Back to School

2008-08-18T10:36:00.012-05:00

We are starting our third year of homeschooling! I began our homeschooling journey by doing school at home the first year. The second year I relaxed a bit and I used more of an eclectic method. This year, I am using The Well Trained Mind approach with Alex. His curriculum is listed to the right.

Alex is enjoying having me to himself this year, but he is really excited about his Chinese class. We are so lucky to have Chinese restaurant here that is owned and operated by an actual Chinese family. One of their children has agreed to give Alex private lessons and he loves it.

Tiffany is living with her grandparents this year and has begun a dual enrollment program. She is taking classes at a local community college and simultaneously receiving credit for her last year of high school and her first year of college. I think this is a great way for her to transition to living in the United States again as well as transitioning back to a "regular" classroom as she prepares to enter University.

Build a Bear

2008-02-05T14:16:00.000-06:00

Alex and Demi love to go to build a bear! This year they decided that instead of making their own bear they would make a bear for each other.

There were a lot of smiles and they had a really good time.

When they got their new friends home they decided to camp out in the family room.

The Black & White Affair

2008-02-05T13:35:00.000-06:00

One of the great advantages of going back to Tennessee for Christmas is getting to see old friends. Tiffany accompanied her friends to the Black & White Affair. They all looked beautiful .

Of course you can dress them up but, you still can't take them out.

Even the boys got in on the act.

Decorating the Tree

2008-02-05T12:44:00.000-06:00

Our tree decorating tradition begins with Dad putting up the star.

Demi and Alex had a lot of fun strategizing their ornament placement.

Usually, I get lost in the crowd, but someone was kind enough to take a snapshot of me this year.

Alejandro put up some ornaments too, but he really prefers to sit back and take pictures.

A special thanks goes out to my Mom who gives each person a new ornament every year. We have come to love and cherish them. Thanks, Mom!

Guitar Recital

2007-12-14T15:12:00.001-06:00

Alex performed in his first guitar recital. Even though he was nervous about playing in public, he did a wonderful job.

He even got a diploma.

Congratulations Alex!

Mexico's Next Top Model

2007-12-14T14:48:00.000-06:00

Tiffany became interested in modeling earlier this year. She now has an agent and she just finished her first paying job with L' Oréal. I had wanted to document this "first" in her life, but no Mommies were allowed. So, I had to be content with taking a few photos after the fact.

I think that she looks beautiful.

Of course, I may be biased.

There are , however, others who agree with me. She even has a new fan!

Building Big

2007-12-14T14:37:00.000-06:00

Alex is studying construction this year. We are using the PBS curriculum, Building Big. His first project was to make the tallest tower that he could out of 2 sheets of newspaper.

It wasn't as easy as it seemed.

Nevertheless, a little problem solving with some perserverence got the job done.

Little Grass Skirt

2007-12-14T14:27:00.001-06:00

Tiffany is taking another Home Economics class. This year, the focus is on sewing. Her first project is a rafia hula skirt that she is making for her little cousin. She is currently crocheting the waistband. Next she will add the tasles and the "grass" for the skirt.

Thanksgiving

2007-12-14T14:13:00.001-06:00

I had lots of "helpers" in the kitchen this year. Alex and a friend were in charge of the pumpkin pie. Things were a little wild at first, . . . .

but then everyone settled down and got to work.

In the end, they did a great job . . .

They even put their initials on the pie so that everyone would know who made it.

I think that they did a great job.

Nature Scavenger Hunt

2007-11-16T14:57:00.000-06:00

Alex and I went on a hike today for his Zoology class. We had a great time and ran across several items from the Nature Scavenger Hunt list. Below are a few highlights.

We found a honey bee,

a grasshopper,

an ant colony,

and bird tracks on the ground.

Free Reading

2007-10-16T10:45:00.001-05:00

Alex has a daily half hour of "Free Reading" time built into his school day and he really enjoys it. He began this year by finishing the Ralph S. Mouse series.

He has now begun The Chronicles of Narnia series.

I am so happy that this new world has opened up for him.

Banned Book List

2007-10-16T10:44:00.002-05:00

Tiffany has always been a reader. For a time in her early teens, her social life really cut into her reading time. However, she has once again found a good balance. She also really likes reading from the banned books list. So far she has read Forever by Judy Blume . . .

. . . and The Chocolate War by Rober Cormier.

She is currently reading Rocket Boys by Homer Hickman.

It Floats!

2007-10-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

Alex made a papyrus boat for his Ancient World History class. He as well as Jack were very happy and proud to discover that it floats!

Alex always likes to put his stamp on things. Hence, he named his boat the S. S. Alex.

Of course, no papyrus boat would be complete without Star Wars stormtroopers.

They are off to fight the siths in ancient Egypt.

Back to School

2007-10-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

Alex has wanted to learn to play the guitar since last year. Unfortunately, it was very difficult to find a teacher in our little town. Finally, we found one and he is on his way.

Voracious Reader

2007-10-08T11:12:00.000-05:00

Alex has become a voracious reader. Tiffany introduced him to Harry Potter this summer and he read the entire seven book series during our six week break.

Congratulations, Alex!!!!!!

The Adriatic Sea

2007-07-11T23:31:00.003-05:00

We headed to the small town of Trieste after Venice. It is located in the northeast of Italy on the Adriatic Sea. Alejandro was attending a conference so we used this time to relax in the sun.

It was interesting to discover that Trieste has a connection with Mexico. The French imposed Emperor of Mexico, Maximilian I, built and lived in Miramare Castle before moving to Mexico. This is a view of the castle from our hotel.

The castle is just as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.

Ah, Venice!

2007-07-11T23:31:00.001-05:00

The beauty of Venice is overwhelming. We loved just walking around the canals.

Alejandro's mother and aunt were traveling around europe and joined us in Venice. It was a real treat to be able to share this experience with them.

First we all went to Piazza San Marco

where we fed the pigeons.

We also toured the Basilica San Marco and Doge's Palace.

We then visited the Bridge of Sighs

and the Rialto Bridge.

First Overseas Flight

2007-07-11T23:30:00.007-05:00

We took the kids to Italy this summer. It was the first time that they flew overseas. I think that the initial excitement wore off very quickly.

However, everyone was very happy once we arrived.

Annapolis, Maryland

2007-07-11T23:30:00.005-05:00

Independence Day is always something that I really miss when we are in Mexico. I was so grateful that we got to go to Annapolis, Maryland for the 4th of July this year. We started off the day by exploring the town and doing a little shopping.

Later, we put on our patriotic clothes and headed to the Navel Academy.

The fireworks were fantastic!

The navy boys really know how to put on a show!

Finally, we took a tour of the academy. Two of the cadets were kind enough to pose for pictures with the kids. It was a great day.

The Sculpture Garden

2007-07-11T23:30:00.003-05:00

We visited the Sculpture Garden at the Hirshhorn Museum. Alex and Tiffany had fun trying to imitate the positions of the sculptures.

There was an interesting piece by Yoko Ono called the Wish Tree. Everyone is invited to use the paper and pencil provided to write a wish and tie it to the tree. When the tree is full, the wishes will be collected and sent to the artist and eventually they will be sent to the Imagine Peace Tower that she is creating in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Making New Friends

2007-07-11T23:30:00.001-05:00

While at the festival, the kids were invited to play some games including Duck, Duck, Goose!,

Red Light-Green Light,

and Simon Says.

Don't Forget the Irish!

2007-07-11T23:29:00.005-05:00

Northern Ireland was also represented at the Smithsonian Folklife festival. The music was so wonderful that everyone decided to dance a little jig.

Alex and Tiffany look great together;

But, LeeAnna and Andrew look like professionals!

Mekong River Crafts

2007-07-11T23:29:00.003-05:00

Alex really enjoyed the hands-on activities. He made a fish out bamboo with a man from the Yunan province of China. They were limited to communicating with hand signals as the gentleman did not speak English and we only knew how to say "thank you" in Chinese.

I really enjoyed the shadow puppets from Thailand.

The pottery from Cambodia was also a big hit.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

2007-07-11T23:29:00.001-05:00

While we were in Washington, we visited the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. This year, its focused on the Mekong River region including Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and the Chinese province of Yunnan. There were several exhibitions which we thoroughly enjoyed.

There was dancing,

singing,

dragons,

drums

weaving

and embroidery

Sewing Lessons

2007-07-11T22:54:00.000-05:00

There is a great tradition of quilting in our family. Tiffany's Grandmother gave her a sewing machine for her 16th birthday. But, it isn't just any sewing machine. It is the Bernina Activa 230. We actually like to call it the space shuttle. It has all kinds of bells and whistles. When we were in Maryland, Tiffany's aunt took her for some lessons so that she can really benefit from having such a wonderful machine.

First Train Ride

2007-07-11T21:56:00.000-05:00

Alex and Tiffany had their first train ride when we left the capital to visit relatives in Maryland.

Eating Out

2007-07-11T21:31:00.001-05:00

Something about eating out makes my children very silly.

Why is Alex laughing?

Just ask Tiffany!

Lincoln Memorial

2007-07-11T21:02:00.000-05:00

One of Alex's favorite sites in D. C. was the Lincoln Memorial. He made himself comfortable and took it all in.

Washinton, D. C.

2007-07-10T12:31:00.000-05:00

We had a great time in Washington! We did some site seeing.

We ate American style.

We went to the zoo.

And we went shopping.

Bowling

2007-07-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

Alex finished his first reading log and chose to go bowling with family . . .

and friends as his treat.

There were many different bowling styles. Some were relaxed.

Some were not.

Some were stylish.

Some were not.

Some strategies were effective.

Some were not.

But everyone had a great time.

Swim Meet

2007-07-10T10:58:00.000-05:00

Alex went to his first swim meet. His team is called the "Ranas de Cuautla" (the Cuautla Frogs).

It was a really hot day and we all did our best to keep cool.

Get ready . . .

Get set. . . . Go!

Alex competed in crawl, breast, back and butterfly. He came in second in the crawl and back stroke and he came in third in breast and butterfly. He was very proud of himeself and we were very proud of him too! Congratulations, Alex!

Reading is Fun!

2007-06-02T21:50:00.000-05:00

Alex has always been a reluctant reader. He loved being read to, but did not like reading independently. I found the key! He just needed a little motivation. I developed reading logs where he gets a sticker for every half an hour that he reads on his own. (Who knew that stickers were so powerful?) He also gets a small treat, e.g. an icecream cone, whenever he completes 3 hours of reading. When he completes an entire reading log, 15 hours, he gets a big treat, e.g. Mom and Dad take him bowling. I am amazed at how well this is working.

Alex has read 5 books in the last 2 weeks:

Ralph S. Mouse by Beverly Cleary

The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell

The View From the Cherry Tree by Willo Davis Roberts

Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater

Good job, Alex!

Congratulations!

2007-06-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

Tifffany had her first professional dance exam today and she passed with flying colors! We are all very proud of her. Congratulations, Tiffany!

Swimming

2007-06-02T21:20:00.000-05:00

Alex has started swimming twice a week. He really like its. His coach seems very nice. Plus, this is a good opportunity for him to socialize more.

Husky

2007-06-02T20:51:00.000-05:00

Alex went to visit the pediatrician and was informed that he is "sobrepeso", overweight. In fact, according to the pediatrician's chart Alex is almost 18 pounds overweight. I knew that he was a little husky, but I didn't think that he was obese. He is also under pressure to lose weight, 10 lbs, so that he can play football with his age group. He is 5' and weighs 110 lbs making his BMI, body mass index, 21.5 which is within the healthy category. If he were to lose 18 pounds, his BMI would fall into the underweight category. If he were to lose 10 pounds, his BMI would still be in the healthy category. I guess that overweight is in the eyes of the beholder. Nevertheless, we have decided to increase his activity level and cut out junk food. Such choices never hurt anyone.

The Official Journey North Results Are In!

2007-05-15T14:11:00.000-05:00

We didn´t do too bad! It was a good experience for us and we are looking foward to participating again next year.

Mystery Class #1: Vancouver, Canada 49.217 N 122.692 W
Mystery Class #2: Yomitan, Japan 26.400 N 127.750 E
Mystery Class #3: Halley Research Station, Antarctica 75.583 S 26.650 W
Mystery Class #4: Beijing, China 39.917 N 116.417 E
Mystery Class #5: Lilongwe, Malawi 13.983 S 33.733 E
Mystery Class #6: Yangon, Myanmar 16.783 N 96.150 E
Mystery Class #7: Sao Paulo, Brazil 23.533 S 46.617 W
Mystery Class #8: La Maddalena, Italy 41.217 N 9.400 E
Mystery Class #9: Quito, Ecuador 0.217 S 78.500 W
Mystery Class #10: Port Lincoln, Australia 34.733 S 135.867 E

If you are interested in learning more about the mystery classes you can follow the links below.

Not For The Faint Of Heart

2007-05-03T11:32:00.000-05:00

Alex suffered his first football "injury" and learned that running and gravel don't always mix. Football is not for the faint of heart whether you are a player or a mommy!

Yuck!!!!!

Felicidades quinceañera!

2007-04-29T10:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Tiffany celebrated the 15th birthday of a very good friend of hers. (The Mexican 15th birthday is similar in importance to the American 16th birthday. ) She got ready and the girls were on their way.

Tiffany got to see a lot of friends.

There was dancing.

There was silliness.

There was love.

In fact, there may have been too much love.

Journey North Results

2007-04-29T09:39:00.000-05:00

Tiffany and Alex turned in their Journey North Mystery Class results. They are as follows:

Mystery Class 1: Vancouver, Canada; 14°25'N 123°07'W

Mystery Class 2: Okinawa, Japan; 26°40'N 128°E
Mystery Class 3: Brunt Ice Shelf, Antarctica; 74°45'S 22°30'W

Mystery Class 4: Beijing, China; 39°55'N 116°26'E

Mystery Class 5: Cape Town, South Africa; 35°55'S 18°22'E

Mystery Class 6: Yangon, Myanmar; 16°47'N 96°09'E

Mystery Class 7: São Paulo, Brazil; 23°32'S 46°37'W

Mystery Class 8: Praia, Sardinia; 40°N 9°E

Mystery Class 9: Quito, Ecuador; 0°13'S 78°30'W

Mystery Class 10: Port Lincoln, Australia; 34°43'S 135°51'E

Journey North will reveal the actual locations of the mystery classes this coming week. The Mystery Class program is designed for large groups with several students working on an individual mystery class. Since we only have two students in our class, we had to make some modifications. Tiffany was responsible for the first 5 classes and Alex was responsible for the last 5 classes.

Smiles!

2007-04-29T09:34:00.000-05:00

Tiffany, Alex and friends distributed 50 treat bags as well as donated toys and clothes to the underprivileged neighborhood near our home on Friday. You should have seen the smiles! It looked like Christmas rather than Children's Day.

Secondhand Store

2007-04-21T14:31:00.000-05:00

We are preparing to go back to a depressed area near our home on Children's Day, April 30th. Many of our friends have donated clothes and candy to distribute on this day. Tiffany and Alex helped to separate clothes and make goodie bags. We are looking forward to this event as the people of this neighborhood are very special to us.

Crew Cut

2007-04-21T14:20:00.000-05:00

It has been rather warm lately. We took Jack to the groomer to give him a little relief from the heat. He looks as if he lost 5 lbs. I am not sure if he likes his new look.

Harvest Time

2007-04-17T21:58:00.000-05:00

Alex's carrots have been growing well and he decided to pull some up today. It looks like we will be having salad tonight!

Jack, however, decided not to wait for the salad.

Butterflies, Bats & Me

2007-04-17T21:50:00.000-05:00

Alex is studying pollinators in his botany class. He took a cotton swab and put it in the anthers of a flower covering it with pollen. He then rubbed it on the stigma of another flower. He is going to watch carefully over the next few weeks to see if a fruit begins to grow on the flower that he pollinated.

Earthquake

2007-04-14T13:24:00.000-05:00

We had an earthquake!!! I slept through it, but my night owl, Tiffany, felt everything. In fact, her bed moved. We also have some minor cracks in the house, but nothing (I hope) that effects its structural integrity. Luckily, the epicenter was approximately 200 miles away. We live south of Mexcio City the quake originated near Acapulco.

Banned Books

2007-04-11T11:46:00.000-05:00

Tiffany, who loves to read, has hated her literature class this year. Go figure?!? I have been looking for a new way to approach things and I think that I have found it. I read today about the ALA, American Library Association, banned book list. I was very shocked to see some of the titles that were listed. Not to mention, I either own or have read over half of the them. So, we are going to be reading the ALA's "The 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 1990-2000". I think that this will motivate Tiffany, she loves little rebellions, and give us plenty of opportunities for discussion. If anyone else is interested, the link to this list can be found below: http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/bannedbooksweek/bbwlinks/top100.pdf . Happy reading!

My brain might explode!

2007-04-01T23:49:00.000-05:00

Alex: Mom?

Mom: Yes, my love?

Alex: I think my brain is on fire. It might explode!

Mom: Why?!

Alex: They are teaching me algebra.

Mom: Algebra?

Alex: Yeah . . . algebra!

Spring Dance Recital

2007-04-01T22:40:00.000-05:00

Tiffany had her spring dance recital this week. First she danced a hula called the Kuahiwi. It it a beautiful and graceful dance.

Then, she danced a Tahitian dance. This is a much more energetic dance.

Finally, she did a belly dance.

Tiffany even had a solo part in this dance that she choreographed herself.

Tiffany was also very proud of her students. She started giving beginning hula classes to litte ones this semester and they did a great job.

Math Wizards Club

2007-03-27T12:48:00.000-06:00

Alex has joined the Math Wizards Club. Each day a new math challenge is posted. Participants receive tickets for correct answers. Each week there is a winner. Plus, there is a monthly grand prize winner. Alex loves math, but I think he is really motivated by the prizes. If anyone is interested the link is below:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mathwizards4to8/

Sunflowers

2007-03-24T12:21:00.000-06:00

Alex's plants continue to grow in his garden. The sunflowers are particularly beautiful.

The petunias and the carrots which can be seen in the background are also doing very well.

Flower Model

2007-03-24T11:28:00.000-06:00

Alex is studying flowers in his botany class. He made a clay model of a flower to illustrate its various parts.

First he made a stem and a leaf.

Then, he made the calyx and the corolla (all the petals together).

Finally, he added the carpel and the stamens.

I was very proud of Alex's work on this project because he did it without any help whatsoever.

Good job Alex!

Acapulco

2007-03-24T10:36:00.000-06:00

Tiffany had some friends visit from the States and we took everyone to Acapulco.

Alex was very happy to be one of the "big" kids.

When we all hit the beach, Alex decided that the "big" kids were boring. So, he and I played in the ocean while . . .

the others worshiped the sun god.

Later, the girls went dancing while Mommy prayed . . .

. . . and prayed . . .

. . . and then prayed some more.

We all had a great time!

Geologic Time

2007-03-09T13:52:00.000-06:00

As part of Alex's history class, he has been studying geologic time. First, he did a project which helped him to understand time sequencing as well as the difference between numerical time and relative time. Alex examined several events in his life and placed them in order from earliest to latest. This gave him his sequential timeline. Then, he assigned a numerical date to each event giving him a numerical timeline. Finally, he divided the events of his life into time intervals, "Preschoolian" and "Schoolian" giving him his relative timeline. He really enjoyed seeing his life events placed into such grand categories and I enjoyed the trip down memory lane.

Alex also studied the concept of a billion. He calculated that if he saved $100 per day, it would take him 27,397 years and 95 days to save a billion dollars. This was somewhat discouraging for him. He also caculated that if he wanted to count to a billion, it would take him 95.12 years given that he was able to say a number every 3 seconds. He decided that he had no desire to do so.

Northern and Southern Hemispheres

2007-03-07T12:25:00.000-06:00

The Journey North Mystery Class project continues. Today, Tiffany and Alex examined how the amount of sunlight changes in the northern and southern hemispheres during the year. After plotting their data on a master graph, they were able to determine which of the mystery classes are located in the northern hemisphere and which are located in the southern hemisphere. They also found that one of the mystery classes is located very near the equator while another is located near antarctica.

Football Practice

2007-03-07T11:27:00.000-06:00

The coaches had a brief planning session and then practice began. Alex really engages in practice. He pays attention and then does his best to do what he is told. I wish that he would "engage" more at home. The focus today, after they did some drills to warm up, was how to hold and catch the ball. Alex really likes football practice. I think that he has found his "thing".

Crayon Etching

2007-03-01T07:35:00.000-06:00

Alex just finished a project in his art class that he really enjoyed. The goal was to learn how texture adds detail and interest to a work. He first used crayons to color a large rectangle. Then, he covered the colored area with black paint. Finally, he used different "tools" to etch his drawing. I think he did a fantastic job!

Spring is here!

2007-02-28T09:22:00.000-06:00

The golondrinas have arrived and with their arrival the official arrival of Spring in Lomas. Three years ago several pairs of barn swallows built their nests on our patio. Our house is evidently in the middle of their breeding grounds. They have returned every year since then to mate and raise their young. It is a joy to witness this process every year and we are really looking forward to a new batch of chicks.

Happy Birthday Tiffany!

2007-02-26T10:34:00.000-06:00

Tiffany had her birthday party this weekend. She had a great time celebrating with her friends.

Happy Birthday, Princess!

Journey North Data

2007-02-26T10:29:00.000-06:00

The data has been coming in for the last couple of weeks for the Journey North project. The kids have been calculating and graphing the potoperiods for each of the mystey classes. They have also been studying how the earth's rotation and the tilt of its axis causes seasonal changes.

Butter Lava

2007-02-26T10:16:00.000-06:00

Alex is studying Venus in his astronomy class. Because Venus has many active volcanoes he "made" some lava to illustrate how rocks go from a solid to a liquid state and then back again to a solid state.

Farmer Boy

2007-02-26T09:59:00.000-06:00

Alex had a problem; his seedlings were outgrowing the lighthut. Luckily, it is spring here and he was able to plant them outside. He began by picking a spot for his garden and preparing the soil. This was no easy task. The man who helps us with the yard lent a helping hand.

Alex, then planned out his garden.

He prepared the seedlings for planting.

He then put them into the soil.

Finally, Alex put up some chicken wire to keep out pests.

We are hoping for a lot of sunshine.

How many?!

2007-02-26T09:22:00.000-06:00

Alex joined a football team and he loves it! They workout 2 hours a day 5 days a week. I am really impressed because they do this in the hot sun and he hasn't complained once.

Popo

2007-02-14T14:34:00.000-06:00

Popo has been puffing today. It shot out a very large cloud this morning which has almost completely dissipated at this point. Nonetheless, it gives one pause. My theory which is based on rationalization and not science is that as long as the volcano is open and not pugged up everything will be fine. Also, according to CENAPRED (Mexico's National Center for the Prevention of Disasters), our home is located outside of the "danger" zone. Still, I am constantly reminded of nature's immense power and my need to be humble before it.

Butterfly Migration

2007-02-14T13:21:00.000-06:00

Monarch butterflies travel from Canada and the United States each year to overwinter in central Mexico. We have wanted to see this phenomenon for several years and this year we finally got the chance. We went to Zitacuaro, Michoacan and it was amazing. We hired a guide and rode horses up to the top of the mountains where we were treated to a view of thousands of butterflies preparing for the return northern journey.

Rhinovirus

2007-02-09T13:50:00.000-06:00

Isn't this beautiful? Looks can be decieving! You may be wondering what it is.

Well, it's the rhinovirus. We have chosen to study it this week because it has chosen to study us - all of us.
The kids put up a good fight, but as many of you may know, there isn't much one can do.

We are resting and increasing our intake of fluids.

Journey North

2007-01-28T13:39:00.000-06:00

As part of their geography class, Tiffany and Alex are participating in the Journey North Mystery Class challenge. They must identify the exact loctions of 10 sites from around the globe using ony sunrise and sunset as the primary clue. This is an eleven week project that begins tomorrow. We will keep you posted.

Lines

2007-01-28T13:23:00.000-06:00

I have virtually no artistic ability, but Alex likes art. So, we are learning together. These photos represent his first three lessons.

Plan de Ayala

2007-01-28T12:49:00.000-06:00

Friends from the International Textile Group which choses each year 4 schools to refurbish invited us to participate. Our job was to paint the windows and doors. Not only did we lend a hand, but we also learned the miraculous power of paint thinner to remove spills.

We have celery!

2007-01-28T12:40:00.000-06:00

The hold out has caved-in. The celery seeds have begun to grow. Alex is very proud of his light hut project. All we have to do now is find a place in the yard to plant the seedlings.

Hammurabi

2007-01-26T13:28:00.000-06:00

Alex is studying Hammurabi´s code of law in his ancient world history class. He solved 8 problems faced by Hammurabi and then compared his solutions to those of the king. Alex wasn't as harsh as Hammurabi, however, my son is definitely not a soft-liner.

Situation:

What should be done to the carpenter who builds a house that falls and kills the owner?

Alex's initial solution:

He should be jailed and banned from being a carpenter.

Hammurabi's solution:

The builder should be put to death.

We talked about the different concepts of punishment and restitution; and Alex's amended his solution.

Alex's final solution:

The carpenter should pay for the man's funeral. He should study carpentry and build a new house for the man's widow for free. He should also take care of the widow for the rest of his life.

Asteroids and Craters

2007-01-26T11:09:00.000-06:00

Alex is studying Mercury in his astronomy class. He learned that the many craters on its surface were formed by asteroids crashing into the planet. Alex dropped pebbles of different shapes and sizes into a bowl of flour to illustrate the formation of craters. This was an activity that he really enjoyed. It is too bad that the picture doesn't show his sound effects.

Enchiladas Verdes

2007-01-19T12:36:00.000-06:00

Tiffany is gathering recipes from family and friends as part of her Home Economics class. She wanted to share some of the Mexican ones.

Enchiladas Verdes
Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
From: Irma Cervantes

Ingredients:
Salsa Verde
· 8-10 tomatillos
· 1 white onion
· 3-5 serrano chiles
· 2-3 cloves of garlic
· water
· 3 cubes chicken bouillon
· 2 Tablespoons of oil

Enchiladas
· 30 corn tortillas
· 2 whole skinless chicken breasts
· water
· oil

Condiments
· Panela cheese, shredded
· sour cream
· 1 white onion

Directions:
Salsa Verde:
1. Place tomatillos, chiles, garlic and onion in pot and cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil and cook until tender.
3. Place in blender with bouillon and 1 cup of water from pot.
4. Whip until smooth.
5. Heat oil in frying pan.
6. Add sauce to pan and cook until heated through.
7. Keep warm until ready to serve.

(Sauce may be refrigerated at this point for use at later time)

Enchiladas:
1. Place chicken breasts in pot and cover with water.
2. Bring pot to a boil and cook chicken until done.
3. Remove breasts from water and set aside to cool.
4. Shred chicken breasts.
5. Add just enough oil to a frying pan to cover the bottom*.
6. Heat oil over medium heat.
7. Place 2 tablespoons of chicken on each tortilla and roll tightly.
8. Place rolled tortillas seam down in pan.
9. Brown slightly turning occasionally.
10. Remove from pan onto paper towel.

To Serve:
1. Thinly slice onion and set aside.
2. Place 4 enchiladas on a plate and cover with salsa.
3. Place a few slices of onion on top.
4. Add a large dollop of sour cream on top.
5. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of cheese on top.
6. Serve.

*Add more oil to pan as needed.

Note: Enchiladas Verdes may be served alone or with rice, beans, or guacamole.

Every little bit helps.

2007-01-18T20:03:00.000-06:00

We just got back from tutoring at Juventud Y Vida. The boys were all smiles and told us about their gifts from the "Kings". It was the first time that most of them had ever gotten a gift. It made us feel great. They have a new boy who came just last week. He had been living on the streets by himself. His mother is dead and his father is in jail. He literally walked up and knocked on the home's door. He now has a home, "brothers" and is attending a private school. It is wonderful to be part of this.

Germination

2007-01-18T12:36:00.000-06:00

WE HAVE PLANTS!!!! Alex was very disappointed with the original results of this project, but he is very pleased now. His adjustments worked and the new seeds have begun to grow. There are sunflowers, carrots and petunias. The celery is the only holdout. We will give it more time and see what happens.

Will in the World

2007-01-17T13:59:00.000-06:00

Tiffany has chosen Will in the World by Stephen Greenblatt as her first supplemental reading book.

Bed-Knob and Broomstick

2007-01-17T12:30:00.000-06:00

We have added a new element this semester. Alex and Tiffany are required to read additional books apart from their regular studies. Alex has chosen to begin with Bed-Knob and Broomstick by Mary Norton.

The boys of Juventud Y Vida

2007-01-14T09:50:00.000-06:00

Before they came to Juventud Y Vida the boys were living in the streets. They were some of the many homeless children in Mexico often seen juggling or selling gum on street corners to make a living. Now, they have a home! In fact, three more boys joined the home in November. Each boy has a scholarship to one of the private schools in Cuautla. Although the boys range in age from 8 to 14 years old, it is the first time that they have gone to school and it is very difficult for them. Most of the private schools are bilingual which just complicates matters. Imagine learning two languages at the same time with no educational background. We will be visiting them once a week to help them with their English homework.

Hoping for a green thumb.

2007-01-13T19:36:00.000-06:00

Alex built a light hut and planted four kinds of seeds for his Botony class. Unfortunately, only one plant of 16 he planted grew. However, he is taking the "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." approach. He has made some adjustments and is hoping for better results this time.

Where in the world is . . .

2007-01-12T11:12:00.000-06:00

As part of our Geography class this year, we are trying to collect a postcard or stamp from every country in the world. We have really been enjoying this project. The mailman likes it a lot too because I tip him every time he comes to ensure that he keeps coming back. So far we have have postcards and/or stamps from:

Australia
China

France

Germany

Hungary

Italy

Mexico

New Zealand

Poland

Singapore

South Africa

Turkey

United States

Uruguay

If you have any family or friends in a country that we are missing, please have them send us a postcard.

When will that smell go away?!

2007-01-12T10:54:00.000-06:00

Tiffany's Biology course requires her to do many experiments. One of them involved river water and hard-boiled eggs left in the sun for 2 weeks. We may never recover.

Where I´m From

2007-01-12T09:06:00.000-06:00

Tffany is doing a family history project for her American History class. She had to write a poem about where she is from and here it is:

Where I’m From

I am from everywhere and from nowhere
From south to north, east to west
From Texas to Michigan, Tennessee to Mexico
I am from change

I am from being proud of who I am
Being different, yet in many ways the same
Dealing with ignorance and intolerance
But, knowing, I have the best of both worlds

I am from funny accents
Southern and Mexican
Hearing them brings a smile to my face
making me feel at home
Wherever I am

I am from a loving family
Long conversations with my grandparents
Giving me strength and wisdom
I wish to one day be like them

I am from beautiful blue eyes
That I wish I had
Those eyes calming and comforting me
With their motherly gaze

I am from brotherly bonds
My older brother’s heart
Beating in unison with mine
And my younger brother’s face
Restoring my faith
Reminding me of the good things in life

I am from careful guidance
Of my father
Making me know my roots
But letting me test my wings
To fly one day on my own

I am from heartbreak
Wrongs and failures clouding my vision
But only this, really teaching me
Making success so much sweeter

I am from old friends
And from new friends
Living without them would be impossible
These bonds will last a lifetime

I am from red, white, and blue
And red, white, and green
Don’t ask me to choose
They are both in my heart

I am from here
And from there
I am myself
My journey has only just begun

Bubba in Tennessee

2007-01-11T18:00:00.000-06:00

Of course we always miss Josh!

Rock Climbing

2007-01-11T16:58:00.000-06:00

Alex did some rock climbing during Christmas break. He did very well, but as the old saying goes, "What goes up must come down".

Soup's On!

2007-01-11T14:54:00.000-06:00

Tiffany's has been learning her way around the kitchen for her Home Economics class. She made a very good cream of broccoli soup for Thanksgiving.

Return of the Mummy

2007-01-11T14:41:00.000-06:00

In his Ancient World History class, Alex did a long-term project where he made a mummy. First he carved a face into an apple and emptied the "guts" from an orange. Connecting the two gave him his "body". Then Alex treated it with spices and dried it with natron. Next, he wrapped his mummy and made its coffin.