LDS Mommy University

Feminine Art of Homemaking

2011-12-06T16:19:00.011-07:00

"Women of God can never be like women of the world. The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity." (Margaret Nadauld, The Joy of Womanhood, Ensign, November 2000)

Sewing and Such:
Oliver+S: little things to sew-check out this and other books like this. Attempt to make birthday and other gifts for family and friends this year.

Cooking and Nutrition:
Disease Proof Your Child-Fuhrman
Eat to Live-Fuhrman

Preparedness and Self-Sufficiency:
Providential living, spiritual, financial, storage, and emergency preparedness goals can be found here.

Gardening:
The Sprout Book by Ann Wigmore read the section on an indoor micro garden
Gaia's Garden
Lasagne Gardening, Lasagne Gardening in Small Spaces, Lasagne Gardening with Herbs
The Ruth Stout No-Work Garden Book
Rainwater Harvesting Vols 1-3 Brad Lancaster (V3 will be released in late 2012)

Atmosphere:
Mary and Martha's 31-Day Home and Spiritual Makeover-Louis/Conrad

Relationships and Parenting:
Christlike Parenting: Taking the Pain Out of Parenting by Glenn I. Latham

Spanish 2012

2011-12-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

English Grammar for Students of Spanish

After mastering Madrigal's Magic Key, reading scripture, and enjoying several easy novels in Spanish over the last three years, you should be ready for CLEP Spanish 1 and 2 after finishing this grammar book. Continue to read novels, review Madrigal's, read scripture out loud, and speak the language as much as possible.

Religion 2012

2011-12-05T17:18:00.002-07:00

"We want our homes to be blessed with sister scriptorians--whether you are single or married, young or old, widowed or living in a family...become scholars of the scriptures--not to put others down, but to lift them up." Spencer W. Kimball, Teachings, 3211.

LDS Standard Works
Book of Mormon Teacher's Manual
Doctrinal Commentary on the Book of Mormon
Women of the Book of Mormon
The Teachings of George Albert Smith
Daughters in My Kingdom

Ensign with special attention to the Conference Reports and Visiting Teaching lesson.

With my own studies, scripture study comes first. If I have very little time for study, I try to never neglect scripture study. God's Word has the power to change hearts and lives--even a heart and life such as mine. I like to study according to the Gospel Doctrine schedule with a doctrinal commentary at the beginning of the week. After I've exhausted the lesson for the week, I like to study the Relief Society lessons according to my ward's schedule. I listen to the same Conference talk each morning, while tidying up my kitchen. Reading the current Ensign with special attention to the Visiting Teaching message gets a bit of my time, too. Finally, my Sunday reading is usually a fun and enlightening book dealing with whatever text is assigned for the year.

Makeover From The Inside Out...Physical Fitness

2011-12-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”
Audrey Hepburn

Proverbs 31:17 "She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms."

I take this command very seriously. Exercising both indoors and out have saved me physically and mentally. When my body and mind are fit, my soul is strong. When I become lax in this area, my whole family suffers.

You are encouraged to begin or continue a regular exercise program. Hopefully, you will be inspired to attempt the Physical Fitness Award Program with your family from the Family Home Evening Resource Book. If you can’t get everyone in the family into it, at least go for the award yourself. Print out the chart and cross off the days. As you accrue marks, your weight will normalize and your strength will increase. Healthy and fitness are your rewards. Walking 2 miles quickly counts for 1 point. Doing an exercise video such as T Tapp gives you a point for ever 20 minutes. Don't forget to drink plenty of water (1 gallon per day), eat a healthy diet with plenty of legumes, fruits, and veggies, plus a small amount of whole grains (rice is the easiest to digest), seeds, and nuts. Get enough sleep every night.

Keep a record of your progress in your journal. Start out by taking your measurements: upper arm, thigh, calf, bust, waist, and hips. Each month do the same the week after your cycle. Let us know how it's going.

Mathematics 2012

2011-12-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

"A man may possess a profound knowledge of history and mathematics; he may be an authority in psychology, biology, or astronomy; he may know all the discovered truths pertaining to geology and natural science; but if he has not with this knowledge that nobility of soul which prompts him to deal justly with his fellow men, to practice virtue and holiness in personal life, he is not a truly educated man. Character is the aim of true education; and science, history, and literature are but means used to accomplish the desired end. Character is not the result of chance work but of continuous right thinking and right acting. True education seeks, then, to make men and women not only good mathematicians, proficient linguists, profound scientists, or brilliant literary lights, but also honest men, combined with virtue, temperance, and brotherly love-men and women who prize truth, justice, wisdom, benevolence, and self-control as the choicest acquisitions of a successful life." David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals, pp. 440-441

Understanding Mathematics From Counting to Calculus (Use whatever math program you like. Some other good ones are Right Start Mathematics, Video Text Algebra and Geometry, Mathematics the Easy Way and other Easy Way books, Singapore Math, or /www.mathslice.com)

Continue where you left off. Mathematics cannot be learned in one year, nor can it be studied once and remembered for all time.

Extra Credit:

For those who have mastered algebra take CLEP College Mathematics exam. Study with Cracking the Clep by Princeton Review

General Science

2011-12-05T16:48:00.003-07:00

Physical Science Concepts by Brigham Young University-Yes, another text book. Around here we liked it a lot but supplemented with plenty of science videos from the library. I love learning how God's earth was made--how He instructed Jesus to use the elements and natural laws of physics to get the job done--fascinating.

CLEP General Science

Literature 2012

2011-12-05T16:28:00.002-07:00

This year we'll approach literature from a different but delightful point of view.

The Politically Correct Guide to English and American Literature-follow the reading program outlined in the book.

How to Read a Poem-Raffel-Follow the poetry program outlined in the book.

The Lively Art of Writing-Lucile Vaughan Payne-this is pretty 'textbooky' but a very decent if outdated introduction to writing essays. No, it isn't literature but these skills will be needed for ECE College Writing. You should be ready for CLEP English Literature, CLEP American Literature, and CLEP Analyzing Literature (if you haven't already taken that test.)

History & Government 2012

2011-12-05T01:00:00.005-07:00

“It is so important that you...women get all of the education that you can. The Lord has said very plainly that His people are to gain knowledge of countries and kingdoms and of things of the world through the process of education, even by study and by faith...It is worth sacrificing for. It is worth working at...(and on a different occasion)...No matter how old we become, we can acquire knowledge and use it. We can gather wisdom and profit from it.

We can grow and progress and improve--and, in the process,

strengthen the lives of those within our circle of influence.”

Gordon B. Hinckley

A Basic History of the United States by Clarence B. Carson + Teacher's Guide (as a study guide)
Dr. Clarence Carson earned a Ph.D. in history from Vanderbilt University and pursued a career as a college teacher. A staunch champion of liberty, he taught in his Basic History how the idea of liberty was central to the founding of the United States and how the idea has eroded over the years without statist propaganda.

As many books by Albert Marrin as you can get your hands on. As a big fan of Albert Marrin, I wish more adults would read his books. Yes, they are labeled juvenile books, but the content is interestingly deep and highly enlightening. Distilling big concepts into digestible chunks, His nonfiction historical books are an excellent backbone to a complete U.S./World history curriculum.

As many books in the Uncle Eric series, as you can get your hands on. As a big fan of Richard Maybury, I wish more adults would read his books. Yes, they are labeled juvenile books, but the content is interestingly deep and highly enlightening. Distilling big concepts into digestible chunks, His nonfiction historical books are an excellent backbone to a complete U.S./World history/economics/political philosophy curriculum. Try to read as many of his recommended books as possible as well.

5000 Year Leap and Making of America (Skousen) Study guide prepared by Earl Taylor jr. available fom the National Center for Constitutional Studies

Understanding the Times-Nobel

The Roots of American Order + Study Guide

Read 1 volume of Carson each six weeks, 1 Marrin per week, 1 section of the Skousen study guide per month, plus read through Understanding the Times and Roots of American Order slowly over the year. Read any Richard J. Maybury you have not yet read. Study for tests in December. Take tests in January of 2013. You should be ready to take CLEP U.S. History I and II, CLEP Social Studies and History, CLEP American Government, ECE World Conflicts Since 1900, DSST Civil War, DSST Intro into the Middle East, DSST Rise and Fall of the USSR, and DSST Western Europe since 1945.

Mathematics 2011

2011-01-10T08:40:00.001-07:00

Extra Credit:

For those who have mastered algebra take CLEP College Mathematics exam. Study with Cracking the Clep by Princeton Review

Literature 2011

2011-01-10T08:38:00.001-07:00

President Gordon B. Hinckley challenged us to create balance in life by attending to four obligations: "one's vocation, one's family, the Church, and to one's self."Speaking of the topic one's self, he advised, "I decry the great waste of time that people put into watching inane television...I believe their lives would be enriched if, instead of sitting on the sofa and watching a game that will be forgotten tomorrow, they would read and think and ponder...You need time to meditate and ponder, to think, to wonder at the great plan of happiness that the Lord has outlined for His children. You need time to read. You need to read the scriptures. You need to read good literature. You need to partake of the great culture which is available to all of us." Hinckley, Gordon B., Resolve to Keep Balance in Your Lives, address delivered at Logan, Utah, 21 October 1997, Church News, 1 November 1997

Literature Selections for 2011

Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare-When Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare was recommended to me, I was a bit surprised that he even had a guide to Shakespeare. Since he is a atheist and humanist, I didn't know what to expect. After reading a few pages, I was hooked. Asimov, with beauty and clarity, has given a thorough analysis of twenty three of Shakespeare's plays and some of the poems. At the beginning, of every play he has a map of all the locations pertinent to the play. I found this to be very helpful in understanding the varied settings in Shakespeare's plays.

The chapters on the plays take you through the tale and give pertinent information along the way. It must be remembered that this book is NOT a substitute for reading Shakespeare. Rather it will guide readers to better understand Shakespeare. Asimov helps us feel at ease in reading the language of Shakespeare, which is only difficult at first. Most of Shakespeare's plays can be found for free online.

Words of Delight by Leland Ryken-The book will seem challenging. However, deliberately working through the concepts help us understand the idea of literary interpretation. Like reading Adler for reading in general, WOD will improve your reading of virtually every biblical text and make scripture come alive in new ways. We won't study the Bible doctrines per say, but will be allowed to let it speak for itself and reveal its beauty and literary forms that lead to doctrinal understanding. The Bible can be found for free online if in the off chance you do not have one.

We will read the guides and original works listed above. As you read, write down any impressions or thoughts that may be helpful to you in your life. Keep a journal, which can be used for thoughts and impressions, summaries, quotes, and etc.

Extra Credit: You should be ready to take CLEP Analyzing and Interpreting Literature If you need to brush up your essay writing skills, look at the writing lessons for The English Language for the LDS Child found at MilestonesAcademy.com under curriculum Years 3-7.

The Feminine Art of Homemaking (or the ultimate handicrafts)

2010-12-06T13:54:00.001-07:00

Sewing and Such:

Sew What! Skirts has changed my wardrobe into a comfortable feminine delight for very little money.

Cooking
Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman

50 Ways to Love Your Veggies

50 Ways to Love Your Legumes

50 Ways to Love Your Salad

Organizing the Home:

Homeschool Blast-Off from LearningHomeschoolMentor.com

Gardening:

How to Grow More Vegetables (and fruits, nuts, berries, grains, and other crops)*Than You Ever Thought Possible On Less Land Than You Can Imagine

Knitting and Spinning:
I've tried from books with no success. I'm taking classes this year.

History 2011

2010-12-06T13:44:00.004-07:00

We can grow and progress and improve--and, in the process,

strengthen the lives of those within our circle of influence.”

Gordon B. Hinckley

History Resources 2011

The Story of Civilization Volumes 1-11 by Durrant (Durrant is not recommended for young people, since the world view is on the atheist side. Adults who have a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ will not be harmed by the thorns among the roses here.)

The Story of Art by E. H. Gombrich

Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View by Palmer, Keller. Choi, and Toronto

I also recommend the complete set of books by Richard Maybury.

Read 1 volume of Durrant and Maybury per month. Study for tests in December. Take tests the first week of January 2012. You should be ready to take the Social Sciences and Western Civilization I and II CLEP exams. You should be ready for the Humanities CLEP and Art of the Western World DSST if you read The Story of Art in its entirety and have done the literature studies for 2009, 2010, and 2011. Additionally, you should be ready to take Introduction to World Religions DSST. Study from CLEP Western Civilization I and II by REA, Cracking the CLEP by Princton Review, and Introduction to World Religions by NLC. Other possiblilities include: DANTES Intro into the Middle East, DANTES Rise and Fall of the USSR, and DANTES Western Europe since 1945

Astronomy Studies 2011

2010-12-06T13:37:00.000-07:00

Astronomy Resources for 2011

Signs and Seasons by Jay Ryan
Signs & Seasons Field Journal and Test Manual

CLEP or DSST Astronomy

Religious Studies 2011

2010-12-06T13:20:00.003-07:00

LDS Standard Works
New Testament Teacher's Manual

Jesus The Christ

Jesus Christ and the World of the New Testament: An LDS Perspective

Ensign with special attention to the Conference Reports
Teaching Children Christlike Virtues In the Home by Lily Stainback or other Family Home Evening resource

With my own studies, scripture study comes first. If I have very little time for study, I try to never neglect scripture study. God's Word has the power to change hearts and lives--even a heart and life such as mine.

Overview and Schedule for 2011

1. Read and study the lesson schedule for New Testament the ward whether you attend Gospel Doctrine class or not.

2. Read and be prepared for the Relief Society Lessons as assigned by your ward's Relief Society.

3. Study each month's Ensign from cover to cover. Learn the Visiting Teaching lesson well enough to teach it instead of just reading it.

4. Read one conference talk each week from the most recent General Conference Ensign.

5. Prepare well for a meaningful, spiritual Family Home Evening. Memorize the Primary Sharing Time music during this time if your children are still in Primary. Sing songs from last year's program and the other songs on the list as time permits.Try to make this the highlight of your children's week, since childhood is fleeting. It will not always go perfectly, but contention should never enter into this sacred time. Patience, patience, patience--if you have tried, you have not failed.

6. Read and memorize one hymn each month, learning all the verses with your family. Ponder on the words of the hymn and write down any thoughts you have. Spanish students may wish to learn the hymn in Spanish. If you play the piano or other instrument, learn to play it on your instrument, as well. Play the hymn often during the day from the CDs or The Church website. http://www.lds.org/cm/display/0,17631,4996-1,00.html. This can be combined with music study.

7. Read the assigned supplemental reading assignments each month:

8. Record quotes, thoughts, and impressions, listing scriptures that inspire you or that you especially like in your journal.

9. Read the Book of Mormon as well.

Nutrition, Health, Anatomy, and Physiology Studies for 2011

2010-12-06T12:44:00.002-07:00

From the Teachings of President John Taylor

"We are here, as a people, ...not to imitate the world, unless it be in that which is good ... but that we may put ourselves in possession of every truth, of every virtue, of every principle of intelligence known among men, together with those that God has revealed for our special guidance, and apply them to our everyday life, and thus educate ourselves and our children in everything that tends to exalt man. ... We should seek to know more about ourselves and our bodies, about what is most conducive to health and how to preserve health and how to avoid disease; and to know what to eat and what to drink, and what to abstain from taking into our systems. We should become acquainted with the physiology of the human system, and live in accordance with the laws that govern our bodies, that our days may be long in the land which the Lord our God has given us. And in order to fully comprehend ourselves we must study from the best books, and also by faith. And then let education be fostered and encouraged in our midst."

Health, Anatomy, and Physiology Recommended Resources for 2011

Eat to Live
Disease Proof Your Child
Green for Life
The Pleasure Trap
Herbal Home Health Care
An Evidence-Based Approach to Dietary Phytochemicals
Nutritional Sciences: From Fundamentals to Food
The Human Body in Health and Disease text by Memmler-Cohen-Wood

Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology

Overview for 2011

Food and Nutrition

During the month of January, we will read Eat to Live and develop a healthy eating tradition in our families. February we will read Disease Proof Your Child and learn how to begin a different type of food storage program. March will find us reading Green for Life and learn how to grow our own greens for the freshest veggies on the planet even in winter.

Exercise and Health

See our real makeover page.

Anatomy

The Human Body in Health and Disease is an extensive college text on this subject. Use it along with the Anatomy Coloring Book and the Physiology Coloring Book over 2011 for thorough treatment of this amazingly interesting subject.

Nutrition

An Evidence-Based Approach to Dietary Phytochemical and Nutritional Sciences: From Fundamentals to Food, Eat to Live, The Pleasure Trap, and the China Study are also extensive but fascinating to read and will give you a deep understanding of Nutrition.

Herbalism

With Herbal Home Health Care you will be prepared to take the health of your family into your own hands.

Extra Credit

At the end of this study, you should be ready for the CLEP General Biology and CLEP Anatomy and Physiology. Join me in Dr. Christopher's Master Herbalist Course and Dr. Joel Fuhrman's Nutritional Education Trainer Certification.

How to Schedule Your Readings

With each of these books take the number of pages in eac, book except the first 3. and divide by 12. Read this many pages each month.

Read the following article: "Focusing on Family Fitness," from Ensign, Sept. 1990, 28

True Makeover-Physical Fitness 2011

2010-12-06T12:38:00.001-07:00

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”
Audrey Hepburn

Proverbs 31:17 "She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms."

I take this command very seriously. Exercising both indoors and out have saved me physically and mentally. When my body and mind are fit, my soul is strong. When I become lax in this area, my whole family suffers.

You are encouraged to begin or continue a regular exercise program. Hopefully, you will be inspired to attempt the Physical Fitness Award Program with your family from the Family Home Evening Resource Book. If you can’t get everyone in the family into it, at least go for the award yourself. Print out the chart and cross off the days. As you accrue marks, your weight will normalize and your strength will increase. Healthy and fitness are your rewards. Walking 2 miles quickly counts for 1 point. Don't forget to drink plenty of water (1 gallon per day), eat a healthy diet with plenty of legumes, fruits, and veggies, plus a small amount of whole grains, seeds, and nuts. Get enough sleep every night.

Keep a record of your progress in your journal. Start out by taking your measurements: upper arm, thigh, calf, bust, waist, and hips. Each month do the same the week after your cycle. Let us know how it's going.

January Article
Active Mind, Active Body By Homer S. Ellsworth

February Article
The Weight-Loss Battle: Helping Your Body Win By Garth Fisher

March Article
Keeping Physically Healthy

April Article
Ye Are The Temple Of God by David Bednar

May Article
Take Care By Riley M. Lorimer

June Article
Our Search For Happiness by James Faust

July Article
Focusing on Family Fitness

August Article
The Body, A Sacred Gift by Diane Spangler

September Article
Maintaining Physical Health

October Article
Why Should We Be Physically Fit?

November Article
Observing the Laws of Physical Health

December Article
How to Overcome Physical and Emotional Burnout

mark of the truly educated

2010-02-04T09:48:00.003-07:00

Lady Reading in an Interior
Marguerite Gerard

"Wisdom is the proper application of true knowledge. Not all knowledge has the same worth—nor are all truths equally valuable. The truths upon which our eternal salvation rest are the most crucial truths that we must learn. No man is truly educated unless he knows where he came from, why he is here, and where he can expect to go in the next life. He must be able to adequately answer the question Jesus posed, “What think ye of Christ?”

This world cannot teach us these things. Therefore, the most essential knowledge for us to obtain is the saving knowledge of the gospel and of its Author—even Jesus Christ.

Eternal life, the greatest gift that God can give and the life for which we all should be striving, comes from knowing our Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ. As the Savior said: “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3.)

We cannot know God and Jesus without studying about them and then doing their will. This course leads to additional revealed knowledge which, if obeyed, will eventually lead us to further truths. If we follow this pattern, we will receive further light and joy, eventually leading into God’s presence, where we, with Him, will have a fulness.

We are admonished to seek “out of the best books words of wisdom.” (D&C 88:118.) Surely, such books must first include the scriptures. Next must be the words of prophets, seers, and revelators. Speaking of the President of the Church, the Lord said, “For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth.” (D&C 21:5.)

While the gospel includes the more crucial saving truths contained within theology, it also embraces truth in other branches of learning. The Lord encouraged the early missionaries to be instructed more perfectly in “things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms.” (D&C 88:79.)

With the abundance of books available today, it is a mark of a truly educated man to know what not to read. Of the making of books there is no end. In our reading, we would do well to follow the counsel of John Wesley’s mother: “Avoid whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, takes off your relish for spiritual things, … increases the authority of the body over the mind.”

The fact that a book or publication is popular does not necessarily make it of value. The fact that an author wrote one good work does not necessarily mean that all his books are worthy of our reading. Many novels and modern publications are corrupters of morals or distorters of truth.

We, of course, recognize that it is valuable to have vocational skills—to be able to use our hands. The most essential temporal skills or knowledge are being able to use our hands and minds to provide food, clothing, and shelter for ourselves and our families." Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, September, 2008

From Fittest to Fattest 1989~2006 Juxtaposition

2010-02-02T23:06:00.005-07:00

"There is no question that the health of the body affects the spirit, or the Lord would never have revealed the Word of Wisdom. God has never given any temporal commandments—that which affects our bodies also affects our souls. There are at least four basic areas which make a difference in our health—in our growing in stature.

First—righteousness. Sin debilitates. It affects not only the soul, but the body. The scriptures are replete with examples of the physical power that can attend the righteous. On the other hand, unrepented sin can diffuse energy and lead to both mental and physical sickness. Disease, fevers, and unexpected deaths are some of the consequences directly related to disobedience. Jesus healed a man of a physical malady and then told him to “sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.” (John 5:14.) Sir Galahad claimed that his strength was as the strength of ten because his heart was pure.

Second—food. To a great extent, we are physically what we eat. Most of us are acquainted with some of the prohibitions of the Word of Wisdom, such as no tea, coffee, tobacco, or alcohol. But what needs additional emphasis are the positive aspects—the need for vegetables, fruits, and grain, particularly wheat. We need a generation of people who eat in a healthier manner.

Third—exercise. The body needs the rejuvenation that comes from exercise. Walking in the fresh air can be exhilarating and refreshing. Properly directed, running can also have some beneficial effects. Simple sit-ups or sporting activities can also be helpful.

Fourth—sleep. Adequate early rest is best. The Lord states that we should “cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.” (D&C 88:124.) Early to bed and early to rise is still good counsel." Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, September 1988

Listen to a prophet's voice. Pres. Benson gave advice at the beginning of the obesity epidemic for avoiding the problem. Why we ignore his words and become so unhealthy? It became big news, when it didn't need to happen at all. The prophet will never lead us astray.

True Makeover-Physical Fitness 2010

2010-01-29T07:45:00.012-07:00

"For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”
Audrey Hepburn

Proverbs 31:17 "She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms."

I take this command very seriously. Exercising both indoors and out have saved me physically and mentally. When my body and mind are fit, my soul is strong. When I become lax in this area, my whole family suffers.

I'm a little slow getting this up. However, I hope you'll still join me in strengthening arms and body.

You are encouraged to begin or continue a regular exercise program. Hopefully, you will be inspired to attempt the Physical Fitness Award Program with your family from the Family Home Evening Resource Book. If you can’t get everyone in the family into it, at least go for the award yourself. Print out the chart and cross off the days. As you accrue marks, your weight will normalize and your strength will increase. Healthy and fitness are your rewards. Using The Firm workouts, you can claim 2 points per workout. Walking 2 miles quickly counts for 1 point. Don't forget to drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet with plenty of whole grains, legumes, fruits, and veggies, and get enough sleep every night.

Keep a record of your progress in your journal. Start out by taking your measurements: upper arm, thigh, calf, bust, waist, and hips. Each month do the same the week after your cycle. Let us know how it's going. This video explaining the program contains a bit of nudity, however it is from a medical standpoint.

January Article
Active Mind, Active Body By Homer S. Ellsworth

February Article
The Weight-Loss Battle: Helping Your Body Win By Garth Fisher

March Article
Keeping Physically Healthy

April Article
Ye Are The Temple Of God by David Bednar

May Article
Take Care By Riley M. Lorimer

June Article
Our Search For Happiness by James Faust

your university

2010-01-13T07:30:00.003-07:00

"If formal education is not available, do not allow that to prevent you from acquiring all the knowledge you can. Under such circumstances, the best books, in a sense, can become your “university”—a classroom that is always open and admits all who apply. Strive to increase your knowledge of all that is 'virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy.' Seek knowledge 'by study and also by faith.' Seek with a humble spirit and contrite heart. As you apply the spiritual dimension of faith to your study—even of temporal things—you can amplify your intellectual capacity, for “if your eye be single to [God’s] glory, your whole [body] shall be filled with light, … and [comprehend] all things." Deiter Uchtdorf

How will I perform?

2009-12-30T06:28:00.002-07:00

"When performance is measured, performance improves.

When performance is measured and reported,

the rate of performance accelerates."

Thomas S. Monson

Please, join our support group today. Together we can achieve amazing results.

2009-12-15T05:37:00.002-07:00

“As Church members, we live under the banner of many different flags. How important it is that we understand our place and our position in the lands in which we live! We should be familiar with the history, heritage, and laws of the lands that govern us. In those countries that allow us the right to participate in the affairs of government, we should use our free agency and be actively engaged in supporting and defending the principles of truth, right, and freedom.” (Ezra Taft Benson, Ensign, Nov. 1987, 72)

Distance Learing At Its Best

2009-12-02T06:05:00.014-07:00

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now.

Goethe

After some thought and a bit of inspiration from God, I've made some minor additions to years 2009 and 2010. I read the book Accelerated Distance Learning, when it was first published. At the time, it's information was not pertinent to our homeschooling situation, and I shelved the book. Recently, I moved my bookshelves to the top floor of our home and spied ACL in my books. Reading it again, I discovered that its ideas could apply to LDS Mommy University to help women gain college credit and ultimately college degrees completely through distance learning.

Homemakers and homeschool teachers are not in a position to spend 15 or 20 hours per week in a classroom. However, we do have an hour here or 15 min. there to study interesting things. Why not connect the dots. I would like to guide you in a possible path to use LDS Mommy University to gain an actual BA degree.

The author of ADL charges about $2500 to mentor a person through a degree using CLEP and other testings. The mentoring is nothing more than holding your hand through the book along with a bit of coaching. We can coach each other through our discussion group. I've read the book; you can, too. LMU can be a great vehicle for utilizing testing to gain a degree.

CLEP tests cost about $75 and can yield up to 6 credits each. Other testing options we will include are DANTES, and ECE. Are you game?

Here's a list of tests to take over the next few years to gain a BA in History from Excelsior College, a fully accredited college in Albany, NY, U.S.A. I'll point out which ones correlate to our studies in the LMU class lists.

ECE College Writing

CLEP Humanities

CLEP Social Studies and History

CLEP College Math

CLEP General Science

CLEP General Biology

CLEP English Literature

CLEP American Government

CLEP Anatomy and Physiology

CLEP Western Civilization 1 & 2

CLEP US. History 1 & 2

CLEP American Lit.

CLEP Spanish 1 & 2
CLEP Analyzing Literature
CLEP Intro to Psychology

DANTES Vietnam War

DANTES World Religions

DANTES Civil War

DANTES Intro into the Middle East

DANTES Rise and Fall of the USSR

DANTES Western Europe since 1945

ECE World Conflicts Since 1900

ECE American Dream

a lifelong desire

2009-11-10T14:47:00.004-07:00

Education would be much more effective if its purpose was to ensure that by the time they leave school every boy and girl should know how much they do not know,

and be imbued with a lifelong desire to know it.

~William Haley

"Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you." Doctrine & Covenants 88:78-80

One thing that didn't go as well in 2009 as I had hoped was the reporting process. Some mothers expressed discomfort in posting narrations on blogs and linking back to LMU. However, we have a perfectly safe forum in our discussion group to present narrations on the subjects we are pursuing. As many have learned with their children, to narrate is to seal that knowledge forever. Please, consider this idea seriously.

"My great hope...is that I may attract more mothers to join this Course. I know what an immense help it has been to myself, chiefly perhaps by making me grapple with subjects which it seemed beforehand impossible to get hold of; and I would gladly persuade other members of our Union to give themselves the same help. It is in a sense a sacrifice, if that can be called a sacrifice, which is deeply interesting; but if it be a sacrifice, it brings an abundant and speedy reward." The Mother's Educational Course, Mrs. Anson

Music 2010

2009-11-01T15:00:00.004-07:00

Music Resources 2010

There is still so much to be explored in last year's resources that we will continue where we left off.

Our Latter Day Hymns: The Stories and the Messages
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Official Hymnbook
Hymns Words and music, 14 compact discs
Set Your Voice Free: How To Get The Singing Or Speaking Voice You Want

Music Studies Overview for 2010

Practice the voice exercises on the CD every day. Everyone can learn to sing better, yes, even you.

Every 4 weeks learn a new hymn of your choice, using the book Our Latter Day Hymns: The Stories and the Messages, your hymn book, and the recording of the hymn. Listen to your hymn several times each day. Learn all the verses. If you are studying Spanish, learn it in Spanish, too.
If you play a musical instrument, learn to play the hymn on it as well.

Sing a solo once a month for your family's FHE. Encourage your children to do the same. This idea was inspired by listening to Gordon B. Hinckley tell the story of his family as a young boy. The program of Family Home Evening was new, but his father knew the benefit of following the prophet. Even though it was hard and the children laughed during each other's attempts to sing solo hymns, his father persevered for the edification of the whole family.

How might you decide which hymns to learn? At Christmas time, learn a Christmas hymn or two. At Thanksgiving, Easter, etc., choose hymns that follow those themes. Right before conference, choose a hymn about Prophets or revelation. At other times, choose hymns that are favorites or unfamiliar. Of course each mommy's list will be different, but it could make a wonderful part of your family culture.

"Our people ought to be surrounded by good music of all kinds. Parents ought to foster good music in the home and cultivate a desire to have their children learn the hymns of inspiration. The time for music lessons seems to come along when there are so many other expenses for the family with little children. But we encourage parents to include musical training in the lives of their children. Somehow Andrew and Olive Kimball did, and Spencer learned to play. Somehow Samuel and Louisa Lee managed to do it, and Harold learned to play. And now, as the leaders of the Church assemble for our sacred meetings in the upper room of the temple, we always sing a hymn. At the organ is President Spencer W. Kimball or President Harold B. Lee. How wonderful is the music instructor who will teach children and youth to play and will acquaint them with good music in their formative years, including the music of worship. To have such music as a part of one’s life is a great blessing. The Lord has said, “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.” D&C 25:12 Boyd K. Packer, “Inspiring Music—Worthy Thoughts,” Ensign, Jan 1974, 25 Follow the link to read the whole talk.

Mathematics 2010

2009-11-01T14:00:00.005-07:00

Extra Credit:

For those who have mastered algebra and who have not taken College Mathematics, take a CLEP exam at a local college. Study with Cracking the Clep by Princeton Review

Religious Studies 2010

2009-11-01T13:00:00.011-07:00

"The global economy, which six months ago appeared to be sagging, seems to have taken a nosedive, and for many weeks now the financial outlook has been somewhat grim. In addition, the moral footings of society continue to slip, while those who attempt to safeguard those footings are often ridiculed and, at times, picketed and persecuted. Wars, natural disasters, and personal misfortunes continue to occur.It would be easy to become discouraged and cynical about the future—or even fearful of what might come—if we allowed ourselves to dwell only on that which is wrong in the world and in our lives. Today, however, I’d like us to turn our thoughts and our attitudes away from the troubles around us and to focus instead on our blessings as members of the Church.How might we have joy in our lives, despite all that we may face? Again from the scriptures: “Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you.”"Thomas S. Monson, “Be of Good Cheer,” Ensign, May 2009, 89–92"

LDS Standard Works
Old Testament Gospel Doctrine Teacher's Manual

Gospel Principles
The Third Thousand Years: From Abraham to David
The Fourth Thousand Years: From David to Christ
Ensign with special attention to the Conference Reports
Before They Are Twelve or other Family Home Evening resource

With my own studies, scripture study comes first. If I have very little time for study, I try to never neglect scripture study. God's Word has the power to change hearts and lives--even a heart and life such as mine.

Overview and Schedule for 2010

1. Read and study the lesson schedule for Old Testament and Old Testament Gospel Doctrine Teacher's Manual in your ward whether you attend Gospel Doctrine class or not. 10 or 15 years ago, I became very frustrated during Gospel Doctrine classes. Although I read the assignment each week, I didn't feel prepared to contribute. It seemed as if the other participants got something completely different from the scriptures than me. Through prayer, I was led to study each week with the manual. Since then my scripture study has been deep, inspiring, and interesting. Plus, I can participate intelligently.

2. Read and be prepared for the Relief Society Lessons from the Gospel Principles as assigned by your ward's Relief Society.

3. Study each month's Ensign from cover to cover. Learn the Visiting Teaching lesson well enough to teach it instead of just reading it.

4. Read one conference talk each week from the most recent General Conference Ensign.

5. Prepare well for a meaningful, spiritual Family Home Evening using Before They Are Twelve or other FHE resource. Memorize the Primary Sharing Time music during this time if your children are still in Primary. Sing songs from last year's program and the other songs on the list as time permits. Prepare a delicious dessert even if it's just ice cream Sundays or rice crispie treats. Try to make this the highlight of your children's week, since childhood is fleeting. It will not always go perfectly, but contention should never enter into this sacred time. Patience, patience, patience--if you have tried, you have not failed.

7. Read the assigned supplemental reading assignments each month:

The Third Thousand Years: From Abraham to David January through June-23 pages per week

The Fourth Thousand Years: From David to Christ-July through December-28 pages per week

8. Record quotes, thoughts, and impressions, listing scriptures that inspire you or that you especially like in your journal.

9. As time permits, read the Book of Mormon and Bible.

10. Read the assigned Women's Conference talk each month.

January
Letting Go of the World by Mary Ellen Edmunds

February
In the Strength of the Lord by Sandra Rogers

March
“With All the Feeling of a Tender Parent”by President Cecil O and Sharon G. Samuelson

April

The 13 Articles of Fastin by Kathleen C. Perrin

May
Nourishing and Protecting the Family by Julie B. Beck

June
Look to the Temple by Elaine S. Dalton

July
“Stand in awe . . . and be still” or in other words—Spiritual Receptiveness by Barbara Thompson

August
Spiritual Strength in Challenging Times: Lord, Increase Our Faith by Camille Fronk Olson

September
A Partnership of Equals by Lolly S.and Russell T. Osguthorpe

October
Sacred Relationships and Self-Reliance by Ana Maria Coburn

November
Awake, Arise, and Come Unto Christ by Sheri Dew

December
Turning the MTC into a Review, Not a Revelation by Jeffrey N. Clayton

Parenting and Educational Studies 2010

2009-11-01T11:00:00.010-07:00

"True education is awakening a love for truth, a just sense of duty, opening the eyes of the soul to the great purpose and end of life...God has implanted deep in the souls of parents the truth that they cannot with impunity shirk the responsibility to protect childhood and youth. There seems to be a growing tendency to shift this responsibility from the home to outside influences, such as the school and the church. Important as these outward influences are, they never can take the place of the influence of the mother and the father.” — David O. McKay " -- David O. McKay

Parenting & Education Resources for 2010

The Original Homeschooling Series

Nurtured by Love

Extra Credit:

The Duggars: 20 and Counting!: Raising One of America's Largest Families--How they Do It

Education Videos from Milestones Academy

You should be ready to take CLEP tests in Introduction to Educational Psycology and Human Growth and Developement. Study with CLEP Introduction to Educational Psychology w/CD-ROM and CLEP Human Growth and Development 8th Ed.

January- February 2010
Book 1

March- April 2010
Book 2

May-June 2010
Book 3

July-August 2010
Book 5

September-October 2010
Book 6

November-December 2010
Nurtured by Love

Botany Studies for 2010

2009-11-01T10:00:00.017-07:00

"Yea, and the herb, and the good things which come of the earth, whether for food or for raiment, or for houses, or for barns, or for orchards, or for gardens, or for vineyards; Yea, all things which come of the earth, in the season thereof, are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart; Yea, for food and for raiment, for taste and for smell, to strengthen the body and to enliven the soul. And it pleaseth God that he hath given all these things unto man; for unto this end were they made to be used..."

Doctrine and Covenants 59:17-20

Botany Resources for 2010

Botany in a Day
The Art of Botanical Drawing

The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

Botany Overview

Although Botany in a Day has a heavy dose of evolutionary input, Botany in a Day teaches you the pattern method of plant identification. This enables your discovery of the wonderful world of plants around you. Instead of trying to identify plants one-at-a-time, you learn seven key patterns to recognize more than 45,000 species of plants worldwide.

The Art of Botanical Drawing beautifully teaches the techniques of botanical painting and drawing for students of botany and gardeners looking to capture the beauty of God's world.

The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady offers a substantial body of work for study and inspiration. This is the ultimate nature journal and one that you may want to emulate. I know I do and will throughout this year. "At once my enthusiastic but haphazard interest in nature become focused, for I found that by writing things down I could learn and remember much more. The only mornings that I was ever on time for my lessons were those which were given up to natural history. " Gerald Durrell, who was encouraged to keep a nature diary by his tutor.

These books don't lend themselves to a scheduled approach. Gradually, work your way through the first two from January through April. When spring comes, spend time outdoors capturing elements of nature that you learned from the book and identify plants in your area. Try to locate an herb walk in your area hosted by a knowledgeble herbalist. Take your sketchbook and children on visits to your garden, hikes in the woods, and jaunts to the seashore. Begin your own Country Diary, using The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady as a guide if you wish.

I've tried all sorts of sketch books and journals for this purpose. Recently, I've gone back to keeping all my journaling in one place. I like to use the lined journals from the LDS distribution center. When I draw, I do it right on top of the lines. At first I thought it was weird but now enjoy keeping my commonplacing, nature entries, new recipies, gardening notes, journal entries, planning collages, favorite quotes and poems, and goals in the same place. My journal is very much like the Edwardian Lady's with my own personal twist and has taken on deep meaning for me.

Extra Credit:

If you enjoyed your study of Anatomy and Herbs in 2009, you may wish to continue in this vein. The School of Natural Healing located in Springville, UT offers several programs through correspondence to learn to use herbs for the purpose of healing and health. If you are not familiar with the work of Dr. Christopher, the founder of the School of Natural Healing, you can read his biography here. He was considered one of the formost natural healers in the world before his untimely death. He was LDS. Although I've taken other courses on family herbalism, I intend to study for the Master Herbalist beginning in January 2010. If the time is right for you, join in the fun. (If you do decide to go for this program, sign up through this link for a $100 discount.)

"But it is not only air, and pure air, the children must have if their blood is to be of the ‘finest quality,’ as the advertisements have it. Quite healthy blood is exceedingly rich in minute, red disc-like bodies, known as red corpuscles, which in favourable circumstances are produced freely in the blood itself. Now, it is observed that people who live much in the sunshine are of a ruddy countenance–that is, a great many of these red corpuscles are present in their blood; while the poor souls who live in cellars and sunless alleys have skins the colour of whity-brown paper. Therefore, it is concluded that light and sunshine are favourable to the production of red corpuscles in the blood; and, therefore–to this next ‘therefore’ is but a step for the mother–the children’s rooms should be on the sunny side of the house, with a south aspect if possible. Indeed, the whole house should be kept light and bright for their sakes; trees and outbuildings that obstruct the sunshine and make the chidlren’s rooms dull should be removed without hesitation." Charlotte Mason, Home Education, Vol 1. , pp 34-35

History and Geography 2010

2009-11-01T09:00:00.015-07:00

We can grow and progress and improve--and, in the process,

strengthen the lives of those within our circle of influence.”

Gordon B. Hinckley

History and Geography Resource 2010

The History of the Medieval World: From the Conversion of Constantine to the First Crusade

by Susan Wise Bauer will not be ready until the end of February, so we will need to read about 20 pages a week March-December. I found it most helpful with the first book to redraw all the maps in my journal and write my thoughts on different events. I plan to do the same with this book.

The Story of Art by E. H. Gombrich We absolutely love this book. It is so interesting. You can either read the whole thing this year or focus on this year's assigned time period in chapters 5-9. One fun way to journal this book is to imitate your favorite work each week.

Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View by Palmer, Keller. Choi, and Toronto This book was written by LDS religious scholars for LDS people to understand and relate to people of other religions around the world. It's a timely read because of the problems we face in the world to day of intollerance. Read 5 pages per week and journal your thoughts.

Van Loon writes, "Draw your own maps according to your own notions of how the thing should be done...Draw maps...Get yourself a small globe or a large globe and an atlas. Buy yourself a pencil and a pad of paper, and then draw your own picture...For there is only one way in which you can learn geography so that you will never forget it--draw pictures."

"An early practitioner of reflective journaling was Thomas Jefferson. He would synopsize and capture the key points of his readings and add his own reflections, recording them in a journal which he called his 'commonplace book.' One of his biographers quoted Jefferson as saying 'I was in the habit of abridging and commonplacing what I read meriting it, and of sometimes mixing my own reflections on the subject' (Cunningham, 1987, p. 9). His tutor, James Maury, commended the practice as a means 'to reflect, and remark on, and digest what you read' (Wilson, 1989, p. 7)."-Herman W. Hughes, Dialogic Reflection: A New Face on an Old Pedagogy

Extra Credit: You should be ready to take the Social Sciences and Western Civilization I CLEP exams if you have diligently studied our history selections from the 2009 and 2010 courses. Study from CLEP Western Civilization I--Ancient Near East to 1648 by REA and Cracking the CLEP by Princton Review. You should be ready for the Humanities CLEP and Art of the Western World DSST or Dantes if you read The Story of Art in its entirety and have done the literature studies for 2009 and 2010. Study with Cracking the CLEP by Princeton Review and a thorough study of The Story of Art. Additionally, you should be ready to take Introduction to World Religions DSST if you have done a complete study of Religions of the World.

Reading Schedule

January

The Story of Art Ch. 5

Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

February

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

March

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
The Story of Art Ch. 6
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

April

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

May

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
The Story of Art Ch. 7
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

June

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

July

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
The Story of Art Ch. 8
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

August

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

September

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
The Story of Art Ch. 9
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

October

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

November

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

December

The History of the Medieval World 20 pages per week
Religions of the World: A Latter Day Saint View 20 pages

Handicrafts 2010

2009-11-01T08:00:00.012-07:00

"And again, thou shalt not be proud in thy heart; let all thy garments be plain, and their beauty the beauty of the work of thine own hands..." Doctrine and Covenants 42:40

I look at handicrafts differently than many other women. I've tried my hand at making crafty things, but they do not fulfill my deep-seated need to be useful and creative. Also, I detest clutter. Therefore, when I think of handicrafts, I think of Tasha Tudor's Heirloom Crafts. Here we see pictures of her basketry, woodworking, pottery, garden, butter and cheese, soap and candles, canning, cooking, spinning, weaving, knitting, flower arranging, quilting, sewing, and toys. We all know she made a living with her art as well. In other words, her time is not spent frivolously--the work of her hands was useful.

Sewing and Such:

I have been treated by Lady Lydia at Home Living this summer. Her posts of painting inspired dressing has given me much incentive to sew more than I have in many years. For each month of 2010, I linked to one or more of her posts. The assignment is to sew something for someone that reflects feminine beauty in 2010. Additionally, I've linked to posts on Kate's Finishing School for Ladies. Here we will keep a journal as assigned in the posts. You will notice that there are 4 posts for each month. Please, read one per week.

Better Homes and Gardens Pattern Adjustments is highly recommended older book to help you make clothing that fits superbly. This is the way my grandmother sewed and fit my dresses. She was a professional seamstress, working in an exclusive ladies dress shop in Phoenix to support her family in the early 1950s. Finally, I've found a resource to help me make custom looking clothing like Grandma's. I love this book!

Cooking and Organizing the Home:

I had a lot of fun writing Pantry Principle for my daughters and future daughters-in-law. It's a compilation of many of the recipes I've collected and modified over the years and so much more. It contains my journey from a unhappy, sloppy housekeeper into a pretty darn good and happy homemaker. This journey was not easy. I made many mistakes along the way, but it was, oh, so worth the effort. You may want to spend some time learning to feed your family in this systematic, nutritious way. It is set up in a twelve week cycle and quite doable incorporating the ideas in this amount of time. Or you may want to peruse some of the other suggestions and learn only a few new things. Don't forget about physical fitness.Wherever you are on this journey, please, choose to serve your family with a willing heart for the glory of God.

The Tasha Tudor Cookbook

Too Many Cooks

Laurel's Kitchen

A Homemade Life: Stories and Recipes from My Kitchen Table

Green For Life

Gardening:

Growing 101 Herbs That Heal by Tammi Hartung
The Mary Francis Garden Book (Although it's a little juvenile, it's filled with great practical botanical and flower gardening information. The ideas are very inspiring.)
The Backyard Homestead

Since we are studying Botany this year, we might also learn more about it from a handicraft point of view. Read one or all of the above books or others of your choosing during the winter months. Make a goal to add to your garden in a small or grand way during the summer and fall of 2010. Keep a record of your progress in journal format.

January:

Cold months keep us indoors. Focus on organizing, sewing, and cooking healthy meals this month, but get one of the gardening books to peruse. Report your progress to the group. It's not bragging, because we truly want to know about your success or even failure.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/art-of-frederick-morgan-examples-of.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-1-lesson-1.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-1-lesson-2.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-1-lesson-3.html

February:

Cold months keep us indoors. Focus on organizing, sewing, and cooking healthy meals this month. Start making plans for your garden project. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/beautiful-soft-flowing-modest-clothing.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-1-lesson-4.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-1-lesson-5_17.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-2-lesson-1-body_20.html

March:

Cold months keep us indoors. Focus on organizing, sewing, and cooking healthy meals this month. If you need to send away for seeds or reserve fruit trees, this is the time to do it. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/long-modest-gowns-painted-by-peter.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-2-lesson-2-body.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-2-lesson-3-body.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-2-lesson-4-body.html

April:

Spring may arrive for you this month. For some it is still wintery. If you can get outside for garden work, begin your garden project. If you must wait to begin, make another sewing project or have a "tea" party. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/painting-inspired-dress-1.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-week-2-lesson-5-body.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-3.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-3_28.html

May:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Plan an end of the school year Presentation Evening for your children whether you homeschool or not. Begin or continue your garden project. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/same-pattern-2nd-dress.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-3_29.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-3_30.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/07/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-3_31.html

June:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Plan a picnic at the beach or lake with your family. Begin or continue your garden project. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/blue-dress-painting.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-4.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-4_04.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/womens-dresses-in-marcus-stones.html

July:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Think of a way to teach some of these skills to your children. Continue your garden project and think about beginning a new one. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/pink-rose-by-federico-andreotti-1847.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-4_05.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-4_06.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-4_2637.html

August:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Make some great memories with your family through new or old traditions. What are your summer traditions? Continue your garden project and think about beginning a new one. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/portrait-in-blue-by-gabriel-nicolet.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-5_11.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-5_12.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-5_13.html

September:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Do you make jam or tomato sauce? consider putting up some summer fruit or veggies for the winter. Get an experienced woman from the Relief Society to come to your house and teach you this skill. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/inspirational-sewing.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-week-5_14.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-seek-6_18.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-art-of_20.html

October:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Bottle some applesauce. Now is the time to plant garlic, fruit trees, and bulbs. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/beach-scenes.html
http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com/2009/08/finishing-school-for-ladies-magnifying.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/light-yellow-cotton-dress.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/paintings-with-multi-generations-of.html

November:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. Try pie from real ingredients. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/summer-loveby-eduard-niczky-german-1850.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/colorful-garments-of-painter-eugene-de.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/07/alfred-augustus-glendening-1861-1903.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/08/irish-artists-of-mid-1800s.html

December:

Continue with your sewing, organizing, and healthy cooking. This Christmas focus more on the Savior as you build great traditions. Report your progress to the group.

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/09/modest-active-wear.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/09/clothing-in-garden.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/09/seaside-colors-in-fabrics.html
http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/09/raspberries-in-cabbage-leaf-by-eloise.html

Extra Credit:

http://homeliving.blogspot.com/2009/10/once-year-planning.html

Literature 2010

2009-11-01T00:00:00.010-06:00

President Gordon B. Hinckley challenged us to create balance in life by attending to four obligations: "one's vocation, one's family, the Church, and to one's self." Speaking of the topic one's self, he advised, "I decry the great waste of time that people put into watching inane television...I believe their lives would be enriched if, instead of sitting on the sofa and watching a game that will be forgotten tomorrow, they would read and think and ponder...You need time to meditate and ponder, to think, to wonder at the great plan of happiness that the Lord has outlined for His children. You need time to read. You need to read the scriptures. You need to read good literature. You need to partake of the great culture which is available to all of us." Hinckley, Gordon B., Resolve to Keep Balance in Your Lives, address delivered at Logan, Utah, 21 October 1997, Church News, 1 November 1997

Literature Selections for 2010

Mansfield Park: January-March

The Harvester: April-June

Gulliver's Travels: July-September

David Copperfield: October-December

We will read the 4 selections listed above. As you read, write down any impressions or thoughts that may be helpful to you in your life. Keep a journal, which can be used for thoughts and impressions, summaries, quotes, and etc. If you like, you may write an essay on each of the selections at the conclusion of the quarter. Submitting it to Kathryn Louis, you will receive personal mentoring at no charge, as long as I am able to do so. Talk to the group about your thoughts as frequently as you have time.

Extra Credit:
History of English Literature for Boys and Girls by H.E. Marshall

Oxford Book of English Verse edited by Arthur Q. Couch

Modern American Poetry
How to Read a Poem by Burton Raffel
Shakespeare for Dummies

You should be ready for the English Lit. CLEP and Humanities CLEP if you have studied The History of Art in the history section and all the literature from this year. Study with Cracking the CLEP by Princeton Review and a thorough reading of the other books.

“It is very helpful to read with a commonplace book or reading-diary, in which to put down any striking thought in your author, or your own impression of the work, or of any part of it; but not summaries of facts. Such a diary, carefully kept through life, should be exceedingly interesting as containing the intellectual history of the writer; besides, we never forget the book that we have made extracts from, and of which we have taken the trouble to write a short review.” Charlotte Mason

Reading Schedule:

January

Mansfield Park read 134 pages

February

Mansfield Park read 134 pages

March

Mansfield Park read 134 pages

April

The Harvester read 176 pages

May

The Harvester read 176 pages

June

The Harvester read 176 pages

July

Gulliver's Travels read 112 pages

August

Gulliver's Travels read 112 pages

September

Gulliver's Travels read 112 pages

October

David Copperfield read 342 pages

November

David Copperfield read 342 pages

December

David Copperfield read 342 pages

Spanish 2010

2009-11-01T00:00:00.009-06:00

Basque Gypsy with Tambourine by Bougeureau

If you haven't yet begun the study of Spanish, look at the schedule for 2009 and begin there. For those who feel they are ready to progress, we will be reading the Book of Mormon and the following three novels in Spanish. When you read the Book of Mormon each day, read approximately 1 chapter out loud first in English following with Spanish. This way you will get used to speaking the language and gain better accent. Additionally, eat at a Mexican restaurant at least once a month late in the afternoon or early in the evening. During these hours the staff will have enough time and patience to converse with you. If there are no restaurants in your area, find someone who would be willing to speak with you at least monthly. Try out your Spanish speaking skills frequently, even if you don't think you know too much. Try translating a passage or two each week from some part of your readings. Let the group know how you are doing from time to time.

Spanish Book of Mormon
El Principe Caspian by C. S. Lewis: January-April
La telarana de Carlota by E. B. White: May-August
La isla de los delfines azules (Island of the Blue Dolphins) by Scott O'Dell:September -December

English Grammar for Students of Spanish

Extra Credit: You should be ready to take the Spanish CLEP exam at a local college testing center. Study with Best Test Preparation for the CLEP Spanish.

Reading Schedule

January

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
El Principe Caspian 72 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

February

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
El Principe Caspian 72 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

March

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
El Principe Caspian 72 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

April

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
El Principe Caspian 72 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

May

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La telarana de Carlota 56 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

June

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La telarana de Carlota 56 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

July

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La telarana de Carlota 56 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

August

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La telarana de Carlota 56 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

September

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La isla de los delfines azules 44 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

October

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La isla de los delfines azules 44 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

November

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La isla de los delfines azules 44 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 4 chapters

December

Read Book of Mormon aloud in English then Spanish 1 chapter per day
La isla de los delfines azules 44 pages

English Grammar for Students of Spanish 3 chapters

the aim of true education

2009-10-18T17:04:00.001-06:00

Take Care

2009-09-03T10:25:00.002-06:00

"It should be your care, therefore, and mine, to elevate the minds of our children and exalt their courage; to accelerate and animate their industry and activity; to excite in them an habitual contempt of meanness, abhorrence of injustice and in...humanity, and an ambition to excel in every capacity, faculty, and virtue. If we suffer their minds to grovel and creep in infancy, they will grovel all their lives." John Adams, Dissertation on the Canon and Feudal Law, 1756.

Do What Is Right!

2009-08-30T07:34:00.001-06:00

"We need families who are spiritually strong --because they do what righteous men and women always do in difficult situations–they do what is the right! Not the convenient nor the popular–and certainly not the politically correct. Spiritually strong families do what is right! "

Wendy Watson Nelson PhD, at the World Congress of Families V in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Aug. 12, 2009.

persevere

2009-08-24T21:34:00.003-06:00

"No [wo]man should bring children into the world,

who is unwilling to persevere to the end in their nurture and education." Plato

2009-08-17T07:11:00.002-06:00

"A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable but

more useful than a life spend doing nothing."

George Bernard Shaw

Learn

2009-08-10T10:04:00.003-06:00

"You must learn day by day, year by year, to broaden your horizons. The more things you love, the more things you are interested in,

the more you enjoy,

the more you are indignant about."
Ethyl Barrymore

Lifelong Learning

2009-08-02T21:01:00.001-06:00

“A few of the basic attributes needed to become a lifelong learner are courage, faithful desire, humility, patience, curiosity, and a willingness to communicate and share the knowledge that we gain...My dear sisters, don’t ever sell yourself short as a woman or as a mother. … Do not let the world define, denigrate, or limit your feelings of lifelong learning and the values of motherhood in the home—both here mortally and in the eternal learning and benefits you give to your children and to your companion. Lifelong learning is essential to the vitality of the human mind, body, and soul. It enhances self-worth and self-actuation. Lifelong learning is invigorating mentally and is a great defense against aging, depression, and self-doubt” (Robert D. Hales, “The Journey of Lifelong Learning,” in Brigham Young University 2008–2009 Speeches [2009], 2, 8–9).

2009-07-30T19:50:00.002-06:00

"I hoped to go to the University of Utah. But the year was 1929, "the bottom of the Depression." On the day I registered for classes, I returned home to find that the company my father had been working for as an accountant had gone bankrupt and closed. He was out of work. The next day I withdrew from the university, went downtown, and miraculously secured a job as a secretary. Since college was not an option, I decided, well, if this is my life, I'd better educate myself. And I worked hard at it. I read and I read and I read." Marjorie Pay Hinckley, Glimpses, 97

2009-07-28T07:23:00.002-06:00

"A great teacher is always learning...Our education must never stop. If it ends at the door of the classroom on graduation day, we will fail. And we will need the help of heaven to know which of the myriad things we could study we would most wisely learn. We cannot waste time entertaining ourselves when we have the chance to read or to listen to whatever will help us learn what is true and useful. Insatiable curiosity will be our hallmark."

(Henry B. Eyring, “Real-Life Education,” NewEra, Apr 2009, 2–8)

What do you think?

2009-07-24T05:32:00.001-06:00

“The things that matter most

should never be at the mercy

of things which matter least.”

Goethe

2009-07-23T03:00:00.005-06:00

"The best thing for being sad," replied Merlin, beginning to puff and blow, "is to learn something. That's the only thing that never fails. You may grow old and trembling in your anatomies, you may lie awake at night listening to the disorder of your veins, you may miss your only love, you may see the world about you devastated by evil lunatics, or know your honour trampled in the sewers of baser minds. There is only one thing for it then — to learn. Learn why the world wags and what wags it. That is the only thing which the mind can never exhaust, never alienate, never be tortured by, never fear or distrust, and never dream of regretting. Learning is the only thing for you. Look what a lot of things there are to learn."

T.H. White, "The Once and Future King"

Shall we waste away sad hours with mind-numbing television or spend some time with a thoughtful companion, a book? After watching my grandmother, 92, engage in all sorts of mind stimulating activities since her retirement, I choose to keep an active mind. A video now and then is a nice change. However, the bulk of my discretional hour will be spent entertaining friends, sewing my own clothes, taking walks in the country, learning interesting things, writing letters to lawmakers, and keeping up with my music. I learned most of the how-tos and what-fors of my favorite activities from books.

absolute truth

2009-05-18T07:43:00.001-06:00

“This true way of life [the gospel] is not a matter of opinion. There are absolute truths and relative truths. . . . There are many ideas advanced to the world that have been changed to meet the needs of the truth as it has been discovered. There are relative truths, and there are also absolute truths which are the same yesterday, today, and forever—never changing. These absolute truths are not altered by the opinions of men. As science has expanded our understanding of the physical world, certain accepted ideas of science have had to be abandoned in the interest of truth. Some of these seeming truths were stoutly maintained for centuries. The sincere searching of science often rests only on the threshold of truth, whereas revealed facts give us certain absolute truths as a beginning point so we may come to understand the nature of man and the purpose of his life. . . .

“We learn about these absolute truths by being taught by the Spirit. These truths are ‘independent’ in their spiritual sphere and are to be discovered spiritually, though they may be confirmed by experience and intellect. (See D&C 93:30.) . . .

“God, our Heavenly Father—Elohim—lives. That is an absolute truth. . . . All the people on the earth might deny him and disbelieve, but he lives in spite of them. . . . In short, opinion alone has no power in the matter of an absolute truth. He still lives. And Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Almighty, the Creator, the Master of the only true way of life—the gospel of Jesus Christ. The intellectual may rationalize him out of existence and the unbeliever may scoff, but Christ still lives and guides the destinies of his people. That is an absolute truth; there is no gainsaying. . . .
“The Gods organized and gave life to man and placed him on the earth. This is absolute. It cannot be disproved. A million brilliant minds might conjecture otherwise, but it is still true” (Spencer W. Kimball, “Absolute Truth,” Ensign, Sept. 1978, 3–4).

A wise woman

2009-03-15T07:11:00.001-06:00

“A wise woman renews herself. In proper season, she develops her talents and continues her education. She musters the discipline to reach her goals. She dispels darkness and opens windows of truth to light her way. A woman teaches priorities by precept and example. Recently I watched a television program in which a female lawyer was being interviewed. She was at home with her child on a full-time basis. When asked of her decision, she replied, ‘Oh, I may go back to the law sometime, but not now. For me, the issue is simple. Any lawyer could take care of my clients, but only I should be the mother of this child.’ Such a decision is made not in terms of rights but in terms of obligations and responsibilities. She knows that as she rises to meet responsibilities, rights will take care of themselves” (Elder Russell M. Nelson, in Conference Report, Oct. 1989, 26–27; or Ensign, Nov. 1989, 21).

Think About It

2009-03-12T08:12:00.001-06:00

Great Expectations

2009-03-10T11:11:00.001-06:00

Many years ago I had the opportunity to teach at the university level, and I remember that some students seemed to know where they were going. They applied themselves, they had objectives, they had goals, and they worked toward the achievement of these objectives and goals. But other students could not have cared less. They seemed to be drifting on a sea of chance, with waves of failure threatening to engulf them. First they became lazy, then discouraged, and then indifferent, and then they became dropouts.

One such student who dropped out of school went home to his mother and said, “Mom, I’ve quit school. I’m going out to make my own way in the world.” He packed his suitcase and went out to meet life head-on. After three weeks of meeting life, he called his mother. “Mom,” he said, “remember telling me when I left home that if I quit school I wouldn’t be able to get a job? Well, you were wrong. I’ve only been out on the road for three weeks, and I’ve already had six jobs!” In your pursuit of excellence, real effort is required. Remember, “he which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully” (2 Corinthians 9:6).

Life is a sea upon which the proud are humbled, the shirker is exposed, and the leader is revealed. To sail it safely and reach your desired port, you need to keep your charts at hand and up-to-date. You need to learn by the experience of others, to stand firm for principles, to broaden your interests, to be understanding of the rights of others to sail the same sea, and to be reliable in the discharge of your duty.

Your efforts in school will have a notable effect on your opportunities after you leave school. As you struggle for that grade point average, don’t overlook the importance of really learning to think. Henry Ford, the great industrialist, said: “An educated man is not one whose memory is trained to carry a few dates in history—he is one who can accomplish things. A man who cannot think is not an educated man however many college degrees he may have acquired. Thinking is the hardest work any one can do—which is probably the reason why we have so few thinkers.”

Great Expectations, President Thomas S. Monson, CES Fireside for Young Adults, January 11, 2009, Brigham Young University

she teaches without equivocation

2009-02-27T12:49:00.004-07:00

"A woman with a mother heart has a testimony of the restored gospel, and she teaches the principles of the gospel without equivocation. She is keeping sacred covenants made in holy temples. Her talents and skills are shared unselfishly. She gains as much education as her circumstances will allow, improving her mind and spirit with the desire to teach what she learns to the generations who follow her."

--Julie B. Beck, "A 'Mother Heart,' " Ensign, May 2004, 75

then they came for me

2009-02-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

Let us recall the Christian minister Niemoller, whose admonition during those dark years of Nazi Germany moved us to our core:

"When they came for the gypsies, I said nothing, because I wasn't a gypsy. When they came for the homosexuals, I said nothing, because I wasn't a homosexual. When they came for the Jews, I said nothing, because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the Catholics, and I said nothing, because I wasn't a Catholic......then they came for me, and there was no one left to defend me."

You Can Read Shakespeare

2009-02-07T15:58:00.002-07:00

"I enjoy doing housework, ironing, washing, cooking, dishwashing. Whenever I get one of those questionnaires and they ask what is your profession, I always put down housewife. It's an admirable profession; why apologize for it. You aren't stupid, because you're a housewife. When you're stirring the jam, you can read Shakespeare." -Tasha Tudor

Capturing Moments

2009-01-30T04:34:00.002-07:00

Elder Henry B. Eyring: “It takes neither modern technology nor much money to seize the opportunity to learn in the moments we now waste. You could just have a book and paper and pencil with you. That will be enough. But you need determination to capture the leisure moments you now waste” (Education for Real Life, 4).

Although I did accomplish my educational goals for LDS Mommy U, the real lessons I learned occurred in my personal life. All the time I spent in Religious Studies and the Temple, prepared me for some difficult trials this month. I learned that even though my internal world is important to me, it is not necessarily the primary consideration of others. Acquiescing in the face of opposition, I need not feel failure or retreat. Instead learning to sacrifice my wishes for those of others brings me great peace and a feelings of strength. Choosing to avoid competition and contention, I accept the Lord's way. Flexibility is honorable and desirable. So many nations that we have studied in history would have had happier outcomes if they had learned to follow rules of diplomacy and sacrifice instead of selfish, conquering jealousy. That's not the only thing I learned that linked to my studies.

Mental and physical health are tied to the state of the soul. I think of Jamie in the Keeper of the Bees. He was ill in body and spirit, which affected his image of himself. Depression and boredom griped his mind until he made a great bodily effort to rise above his situation and accept the outcome of his decisions. Like Jamie, we can choose to sacrifice and serve others.

Take our children. They need us in so many ways, when they are small. They need us to be firm and kind, teaching them good habits. For a time, they need us to sacrifice our time, talents, and everything we have for them. In some ways, this means taking a little time for ourselves to gain health, knowledge, wisdom, and testimony. Another facet of this thinking includes giving up outside pursuits for a time. To devote our energies to our children, we can gain so much. At the end of the day, when feelings of exhaustion overtake us, we can look at the day and feel accomplishment for our efforts. We will be tired whether we spend time working with our children or spend time in frivolous pursuits. It's all about choices. I choose my family, my health, and peace.

So how did you do this month? What moments did you capture? Write about your adventures in learning on your blog and add your link below. If you don't have a blog, you might consider starting one for this purpose. It's easy. Go to the top of this page and click, Create A Blog. Write your report and link it to us. I can't wait to here what you have done even if it is not everything you had planned.

Think About It

2009-01-28T13:41:00.004-07:00

Elder Henry B. Eyring: “It is clear that putting spiritual learning first does not relieve us from learning secular things. On the contrary, it gives our secular learning purpose and motivates us to work harder at it. If we will keep spiritual learning in its proper place, we will have to make some hard choices of how we use our time...When we see life as it really is, we plan for a time and a place for all of those things. There will come crises when there does not seem to be enough time. There will be many instances, when one thing crowds out another. But there should never be a conscious choice to let the spiritual become secondary as a pattern in our lives. Never. That will lead to tragedy. The tragedy may not be obvious at first, nor may it ever be clear in mortal life. But remember, you are interested in education not for life, but for eternal life. When you see that reality clearly with spiritual sight, you will put spiritual learning first and yet not slight the secular learning. In fact, you will work harder at your secular learning than you would without that spiritual vision” (Education for Real Life, 3).

2009-01-26T05:02:00.002-07:00

President Gordon B. Hinckley: “Look upon the Word of Wisdom as more than a commonplace thing. I regard it as the most remarkable document on health of which I know. It came to the Prophet Joseph Smith in 1833, when relatively little was known of dietary matters. Now the greater the scientific research, the more certain becomes the proof of Word of Wisdom principles” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1998, 67; or Ensign, May 1998, 49).

President Boyd K. Packer, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “The Word of Wisdom put restrictions on members of the Church. To this day those regulations apply to every member and to everyone who seeks to join the Church. They are so compelling that no one is to be baptized into the Church without first agreeing to live by them. No one will be called to teach or to lead without accepting them. When you want to go to the temple, you will be asked if you keep the Word of Wisdom. If you do not, you cannot go to the house of the Lord until you are fully worthy. “We know that young people generally don’t like restrictions. Believe it or not, we were young once and we remember. A resistance to anything that limits one’s conduct has almost taken over society. Our whole social order could self-destruct over the obsession with freedom disconnected from responsibility, where choice is imagined to be somehow independent of consequences. . . .The Word of Wisdom was ‘given for a principle with promise’ (D&C 89:3). That word principle in the revelation is a very important one. A principle is an enduring truth, a law, a rule you can adopt to guide you in making decisions. Generally principles are not spelled out in detail. That leaves you free to find your way with an enduring truth, a principle, as your anchor” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1996, 22; or Ensign, May 1996, 17).

The Aim of True Education

2009-01-22T15:34:00.001-07:00

"Character is the aim of true education; and science, history, and literature are but means used to accomplish the desired end. Character is not the result of chance work but of continuous right thinking and right acting. . . . True education seeks, then to make men and women not only good mathematicians, proficient linguists, profound scientists, or brilliant literary lights, but also honest men, combined with virtue, temperance, and brotherly love -- men and women who prize truth, justice, wisdom, benevolence, and self-control as the choicest acquisitions of a successful life. . . . It is regrettable, not to say deplorable, that modern education so little emphasizes these fundamental elements of true character. The principal aim of many of our schools and colleges seems to be to give the students purely intellectual attainments and to give but passing regard to the nobler and more necessary development along moral lines." (David O. McKay, Gospel Ideals p. 440-441)

Busyness

2009-01-17T08:32:00.002-07:00

Elder John Longden, an Assistant to the Twelve: “Mere ‘busyness’ is not necessarily evidence of the wise use of time. There should be time for mental and spiritual development as well as relaxation: time for worship and time to express our thankfulness for our ability to work, and think, and pray, and read, and help, and dream, and laugh, and plan, and learn” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1966, 38).

What Direction Will You Travel?

2009-01-16T04:30:00.003-07:00

Elder G. Homer Durham of the
Seventy: “On January 2, 1891, a 19-year-old
Norwegian immigrant sat down in his
home in Logan City, Cache County,
Utah Territory, and wrote the
following lines on some lined paper:
“‘As I have come to fully realize; that, I am as
weak as all other mortals—perhaps weaker than
many; and realizing that happiness in life
is only obtained by having a pure heart, a clear
conscience; and fearing the Lord and keeping his
commandments; also as I realize that happiness
in old age consists of reviewing a life devoid
from great sins; the gratification of noble desires
manfully carried out; and finding that my life
up to this time has not been as I should like it to
have been: I lay down the following regulations
by which I shall try to conduct my life hereafter;
to which end may the Lord Almighty, my Creator,
help me.’

“He then spelled out 17 resolutions. Nearly eight
months later, on Tuesday, August 25, 1891, he
copied them in a hardcover journal. Here he was
to record his years of struggle as a stranger-student
from Utah Territory at Harvard University in
Cambridge, Massachusetts. He began by entering
the 17 resolves that were to guide his life.

“‘Resolved:
“‘1st. That religion, the science of sciences, be
made my chief concernment throughout life.
“‘2nd. That I will daily pray to God in secret.
“‘3rd. That I will daily reflect upon God and his
attributes and try to become like him.
“‘4th. That I will receive Light, Wisdom or
Knowledge, wherever or however it may be offered.
“‘5th. That I never be ashamed to acknowledge my
principles, beliefs and religion when I once become
fully convinced of their correctness.
“‘6th. That I never lose one moment of time but
improve it.
“‘7th. That I maintain strict temperance in eating
and drinking.
“‘8th. That I never do anything that I would not
do were it the last hour of my life.
“‘9th. That I daily read the word of God, that I
may learn his will and that I may be comforted,
strengthened and encouraged by
so doing.
“‘10th. That in any narrations I
speak nothing but the pure and
simple verity.
“‘11th. That I always do that which
I think is my duty and for the best
good for my fellow beings.
“‘12th. That I live with all my might while I do
live, that I may not die a living death.
“‘13th. That I never by word or manner try to force
my opinions on others but that I simply state them
and offer my arguments against others!
“‘14th. That I seek to overcome the habit of being
quick tempered, loud speaking, impatient motions
and whatever might offend my fellowmen and
hurt me.
“‘15th. That I never for a moment forget my duty
towards my mother, she who has made me who
I am and who will make what I will become, she
who has spent the better portion of her life in my
behalf and to whom I owe all the honor, respect,
and affection that I can give; also that I always
remember my duties toward my brother and all
my friends and relations.
“‘16th. That I complete every task which I begin;
also that I carefully consider my purpose and its
results before taking upon me any duty.
“‘17th. That I always remember that the men and
women I meet are my brothers and sisters and that
I look to the beam in my own eye before attempting
to remove the mote in my fellow’s eye.’
“It would be well if every young man and woman
today would similarly evaluate his or her position
in life. . . .

“The young man who wrote these lines . . . was
John Andreas Widtsoe. . . .

“. . . In March 1921 he was called to the apostleship
by President Heber J. Grant and continued in that
position throughout a long and eventful life”
(“Faith, the Greater Knowledge,” New Era, Aug.
1978, 4–6).

Think About It

2009-01-13T12:54:00.004-07:00

"[The Lord] expects us to have family home evening--one night a week to gather our children together and teach them the gospel. Isaiah said, 'An all thy children shall be taught of the Lord.' That is the commandment: 'All they children shall be taught of the Lord.' And the blessing: 'And great,' he said, 'shall be the peace of they children.' (Isaiah 54:13)." Gordon B. Hinckley

It is so easy to find things to share with your children gospel-wise, when you are studying the gospel in-depth daily, personally. The Religious Studies rotation this year offers a great program for just such an opportunity. Here's to your resolve to hold more meaningful family home evening. (Notice how it's not called Family Home Fifteen Minutes.)

Think About It

2009-01-11T12:26:00.002-07:00

“Can you detect that if we do not pray in our families always they may not be blessed—or at least not so fully? If we truly love our families we will constantly pray for them and with them. I know of no single activity that has more potential for unifying our families and bringing more love and divine direction into our homes than consistent, fervent family prayer.” John H. Groberg, “The Power of Family Prayer,” Ensign, May 1982

Can I get a degree from this "University"?

2008-12-23T20:32:00.001-07:00

Can I get a degree from this "University"?

It depends how you define degree.

You can get a higher degree of time well spent.

You can get a greater degree of self-worth.

You can get a larger degree of knowledge and wisdom.

No, this is not an accredited BA, BS, MBA, or Ph. D. However, you will find several essential topics which every mother will find uplifting and vital for the advancement of her maternal career. “By their fruits, ye shall know them” This educational seed when sown cannot fail to bear fruit. What fruits are these? We will be able to help our child with homework or show them how to research or answer their tough questions.

My father laughs, when he hears that I want to learn to speak Chinese or learn Astronomy. He asks what it will get me. But he’s missing the point. What about joy? If I listened to him, he would tell me I’m ridiculous. Others might say that to learn about history or anatomy would not help a woman become a better mother. On the contrary, time has shown that experience, tradition and circumstance do not give us enough guidance into raising capable children. A course of study will definitely make mothers more observant, appreciative, and adaptable. In addition they will be great examples for their children to follow.

Education changes our insights into all subjects we encounter. Whether we are involved in a doctrinal discussion in Sunday school or conferring with our child’s pediatrician, accuracy, understanding, and wisdom will enable us to present our position coherently. “For to be honestly pursuing a course of study, however simply, makes a mother feel that she is trying in some measure to live worthily of her calling. She will feel that she is doing her best to prepare herself for the bringing up and training of useful men and women, thoroughly developed in body, mind, and spirit, who may by God's blessing leave the world a little better than they found it.” Charlotte Mason

Yes, you can get a degree with LDS Mommy University. You get a degree of satisfaction, a degree of joy, a degree of happiness not found in following worldly amusements. You will draw a great degree closer to your children as you guide them, answer their questions, and model productive instead of passive leisure. You obtain a greater degree of love with your spouse as you learn to serve God's children of which he is one with tenderness and love. You will find a greater degree of peace and happiness as you learn more about God and His word.

Look at the course of study for 2009. If you decide it is for you, join our support group here. Or you can scroll down and use the gadget below. In January, we will add a Mr. Linky so that you may write about your progress on you blog and link it to our site. We will all want to know how you are doing.

Update: Since writing the above, much research has been conducted. It is now possible to earn an accredited university degree studying with LDS Mommy University. Read about it here.

How It Works

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~Course Overview~

Thank you for your interest in this course. Its purpose is to help us become more rounded persons and mothers. You can follow the course as outlined in our four year rotation. Each year we have four core subjects and several elective subjects for study. The core subjects (content changes) remain constant in each of the four years (Religion, Parenting and Education, Mathematics, and Literature), with the elective subjects changing for variety. Assignments have been chosen for each month of the year in each subject. Just complete the assignments for the month in your own free time. If you can't quite complete everything, that is fine, just do the best you can. Join the Yahoo Group to post your progress if you wish.

Why I'm Doing This

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When my first daughter was attempting to learn multiplication of fractions and asked for my help, I was embarrassed that I just didn't know how to do it. Now this was 3rd grade math. I was mortified. Things went from bad to worse when she asked me questions about science, history, English, and so on. I could not answer her questions.

At that point, I began assessing my own education. How could I have graduated from high school and gone on to college with little information in my head? It was time to re-evaluate what I did in my spare time. Reading magazines and watching television filled my non-working hours. What would happen if I got rid of those activities and focused on areas where I lacked? So I began with no plan, just moving forward.

I did this. I studied that. I did improve in many areas. But to tell the truth, I was anything but well rounded, and I knew it. Enter my friend Mary. She had a Double Master's Degree in Computer Science and Accounting. She was smart and knew lots about lots of subjects. I felt about 2 inches tall, and things were going to change.

I finished my formal studies in Early Childhood Education, but this wasn't enough. I am still pursuing additional English and Elementary Education degrees. But I've learned that college classes are more about grades than learning. There is so much I still don't know and dearly want to learn. I need direction. That is why I decided to put together a self-education schedule for myself and other LDS mothers. Please, join in. Learning is exhilarating!

Create Balance in Life

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President Gordon B. Hinckley challenged us to create balance in life by attending to four obligations: "one's vocation, one's family, the Church, and to one's self." Speaking of the topic one's self, he advised, "I decry the great waste of time that people put into watching inane television...I believe their lives would be enriched if, instead of sitting on the sofa and watching a game that will be forgotten tomorrow, they would read and think and ponder...You need time to meditate and ponder, to think, to wonder at the great plan of happiness that the Lord has outlined for His children. You need time to read. You need to read the scriptures. You need to read good literature. You need to partake of the great culture which is available to all of us." Hinckley, Gordon B., Resolve to Keep Balance in Your Lives, address delivered at Logan, Utah, 21 October 1997, Church News, 1 November 1997

"why isn't a fellow taught all about his works and how to manage 'em"

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"why isn't a fellow taught all about his works and how to manage 'em, and not left to go blundering into all sorts of worries? Telling him after he's down isn't much use, for then he's found it out himself and won't thank you..."

"...that's what I keep lecturing about, and people won't listen. You lads need that sort of knowledge so much, and fathers and mothers out to be able to give it to you...I with, how I wish, that I could help teachers and parents to feel it as they ought."

"Some do. Aunt Jessie and her boys have capital talks, and I wish we could. But Mother's so busy with her housekeeping and Father with his business, that there never seems to be any time for that sort of thing..." Eight Cousins, Louisa May Alcott

Before I decided to become a mother, I dreamed of being a surgeon. The human anatomy and all the Latin words for diseases and body parts are fascinating to me. Unfortunately, in my youth, I never took the opportunity to get past elementary biology. I found most of it boring and inapplicable to my future goal of famous surgeon. After that desire killing class, I became more focused on my other love, music.

As an adult, my interest in the human body was renewed, when I had children and they got sick. The doctors insisted on speaking to me in language that I could not understand. To get back at them, I learned their lingo. I learned so much about the health of children that I was able to stop using the pediatrician's services quite so much.

Fast forward to today. We can improve our own health and that or our family members if we choose to educate ourselves, as Uncle Alec suggests in my favorite children's novel of all time, Eight Cousins. The resources in our2009 Health, Anatomy, and Physiology course can help us take a step in this direction.

The Human Body: Fearfully And Wonderfully Made by Dr. Jay Wile is written in a friendly conversational style which is both fun and easy to read. While it still takes some study to understand some of the concepts, most anyone with a willing heart and a healthy mind should be able to handle its content.

The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody is a beginner's introduction to herbalism. Most ailments can be healed by our marvelous machinery that God created. But when we need a little gentle help, we can be guided to safe alternatives with a little study in this book. "and there were some who died with fevers, which at some seasons of the year were very frequent in the land-but not so much so with fevers, because of the excellent qualities of the many plants and roots which God had prepared to remove the cause of diseases, to which men were subject by the nature of the climate-" Alma 46:40

Pantry Principle by Kathryn Louis can help a family adopt and practice the prophet's advice of 3-month and 12-month home storage with ease.

Of course we know that our bodies are temples and must be maintained. Any type of vigorous exercise will go far in helping this cause. On our listings we offer a few suggestions, but the sky is the limit here.

How Can I Accomplish This?

2008-10-23T08:24:00.012-06:00

If you have ever read The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey, you will have heard the statement "first things first". That is a good way look at life. What is important? What is not?

My relationship with God comes before everything else. If I put other things before him, I am breaking a commandment and hindering my eternal progress.

Ex. 20: 3 "Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

2 Ne. 9: 41 "O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name."

As hard as it was at first, I get up early to study scripture and pray. I've been doing this for a very long time. When little babies kept me up at night. I did it. When teenagers kept me up at night, I did it. My "Sweet Hour of Prayer" is the most important part of my day.

I make sure my family is fed. While preparing food, I study. I post scripture to memorize and Spanish vocabulary, where I can see it. I sing along to hymns, practice vocal exercises, and listen to recordings of other music I'm trying to learn.

I don't let things go, causing me to have to spend hours and hours cleaning. This frees lots of time for study and other pursuits.

I take books with me on errands. When I have a book and a drawing pad in the diaper bag (that was years ago) or in my purse, I am ready to capture otherwise wasted moments. Instead of reading People or some other mind-numbing garbage in the doctor's waiting room, I draw or read history, science, or good literature. I took these things for the children, when they were little, too.

At home, my books are within site and easy reach to utilize otherwise squandered time. My grown daughter sent me a funny Mother's Day card, which I framed for my kitchen. On it a woman vacuums with one hand, holding a book up to read with her free hand. This epitomizes me. I schedule time to sew or work on the garden.

Wasting time with television, I found that I didn't finish what was important. As I allowed Oprah and others like her to steal my time, I found myself becoming depressed and angry. The messages that daytime talk show hosts preach are useless at best and anti-Christ at worst. When I turned off the television and picked up a good book, my whole outlook on life changed. Shakespeare, Bauer, and Einstein are a whole lot more interesting than the town idiot of the hour. Later, I realized that I didn't really want my children hearing the things the talking heads had to say either. I am better off without worldly views, causing me to question life.

Involve your children. I knew a woman who liked to study. She told her children that from thus and such a time to a later time that she was not available for anything. This horrifies me. When my children were small, they exercised or studied with me. One friend told of her father's maneuvers. In the evenings after dinner dishes were done, he read the encyclopedia. "Suzanne," he would say, "listen to this." Then he would read aloud some bit from the encyclopedia. The books Laddie by Gene Stratton Porter and Cheaper By the Dozen by Galbraith have some great examples of how fathers can do this sort of thing.

One thing I will always regret is letting my violin and piano practice slip. From time to time, I did attempt to pick it up again. Today, I do play quite a bit, but my skill level is quite low. If you already play the flute or the harp or the piano or whatever, keep it going even for just a few minutes a day. Play music with your little people. Buy a tiny violin or dust off the keyboard, and give them spontaneous lessons.

Studying to learn new things and broaden your horizons is great for your earthly and eternal progress, but that is not the only reason to read and study. Letting your child see you study, makes you a role model for the importance of education.

You will see so many choices available for study at LDS Mommy University that you may be overwhelmed. Try not to let yourself think this way. You may find that if you follow my advise above, you have time for every class. But I wouldn't try to do them all the first year. Try to do all the core classes and one or two others. If you find that this is do-able, pick up another one or two. And so on and so forth. Even if you only do one class, it is better than none at all. Just keep moving forward.

History and Geography Studies 2009

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“It is so important that you young men and you young women get all of the education that you can. The Lord has said very plainly that His people are to gain knowledge of countries and kingdoms and of things of the world through the process of education, even by study and by faith...It is worth sacrificing for. It is worth working at...(and on a different occasion)...No matter how old we become, we can acquire knowledge and use it. We can gather wisdom and profit from it. We can grow and progress and improve--and, in the process, strengthen the lives of those within our circle of influence.” Gordon B. Hinckley

Recommended History and Geography Resources 2009

Ancient State: The Rulers & the Ruled (Collected Works of Hugh Nibley: Vol. 10) By Hugh Nibley

The History of the Ancient World: From the Earliest Accounts to the Fall of Rome by Susan Wise Bauer

Overview and Schedule for History and Geography 2009

We will be reading The History of the Whole World and Ancient State. Each week read 1-2 chapters from each book.As you come across a map in The History draw it as Van Loon suggests below. In your journal write any interesting ideas or any other things you hope to remember as Hughes suggests below.

Van Loon writes, "Draw your own maps according to your own notions of how the thing should be done...Draw maps...Get yourself a small globe or a large globe and an atlas. Buy yourself a pencil and a pad of paper, and then draw your own picture...For there is only one way in which you can learn geography so that you will never forget it--draw pictures."

"An early practitioner of reflective journaling was Thomas Jefferson. He would synopsize and capture the key points of his readings and add his own reflections, recording them in a journal which he called his 'commonplace book.' One of his biographers quoted Jefferson as saying 'I was in the habit of abridging and commonplacing what I read meriting it, and of sometimes mixing my own reflections on the subject' (Cunningham, 1987, p. 9). His tutor, James Maury, commended the practice as a means 'to reflect, and remark on, and digest what you read' (Wilson, 1989, p. 7)."-Herman W. Hughes, Dialogic Reflection: A New Face on an Old Pedagogy

Handicrafts 2009

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Handicrafts are temporal hand skills and talents such as cooking, sewing, knitting, drawing, painting, photography, woodworking, and decoration that create a home that promises loving care and warm acceptance. "The human hand is a wonderful and exquisite instrument to be used in a hundred movements exacting delicacy, direction and force; every such movement is a cause of joy as it leads to the pleasure of execution and the triumph of success. We begin to understand this and make some efforts to train the young in the deft handling of tools and the practice of handicrafts." Unknown

This year you may choose from drawing, sewing, or knitting. Ambitious ladies might choose all three.

Drawing Recommended Resources for 2009

The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards

New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Workbook: Guided Practice in the Five Basic Skills of Drawing by Betty Edwards

Illustrating Nature: Right-Brain Art in a Left-Brain World by Irene Brady

January

Drawing on the Right Side- Preface, Intro, & Ch. 1 + corresponding workbook pages

February

Drawing on the Right Side- Ch. 2 & 3 + corresponding workbook pages

March

Drawing on the Right Side- Ch. 4 & 5 + corresponding workbook pages

April

Drawing on the Right Side- CH. 6 & 7 + corresponding workbook pages

May

Drawing on the Right Side- Ch. 8 & 9 + corresponding workbook pages

June

Drawing on the Right Side- Ch. 10 & 11 + corresponding workbook pages

July

Drawing on the Right Side- Ch. 12, Afterward, & Postscript + corresponding workbook pages

August

Illustrating Nature- Ch. 1, 2, & 3

September

Illustrating Nature- Ch. 4, 5, & 6

October

Illustrating Nature- Ch. 7, 8, & 9

November

Illustrating Nature- Ch. 10 & 11

December

Illustrating Nature- Ch. 12 & 13

Sewing and Knitting Recommended Resources for 2009

Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe by Wendy Mullin, Eviana Hartman

Sew U Home Stretch: The Built by Wendy Guide to Sewing Knit Fabrics by Wendy Mullin, Eviana Hartman

You can learn to do almost anything from a book, but knitting is probably best learned from an expert. Ask the Relief Society president in your ward to announce the need for a knitting instructor or take a class.

Spanish 2009

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Spanish Recommended Resources for 2009

Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish by Margarita Madrigal
English Grammar for Students of Spanish by Emily Spinelli
El leon, la bruja y el ropero (The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe)by C.S. Lewis

Overview for Spanish 2009

For Both the Magic Key and English Grammar for Students of Spanish we will study one chapter a week.
Starting the first week of December, we will read El leon, la bruja y el ropero

Spanish Assignment Schedule 2009

January 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

February 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

March 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

April 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

May 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

June 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

July 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

August 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

September 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

October 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

November 2009

Study one chapter each week in Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Study one chapter each week in English Grammar for Students of Spanish.

December 2009

Finish studying Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish.
Finish studying English Grammar for Students of Spanish.
Read El leon, la bruja y el ropero.

Health, Anatomy, and Physiology Studies for 2009

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From the Teachings of President John Taylor

Health, Anatomy, and Physiology Recommended Resources for 2009

The Human Body: Fearfully And Wonderfully Made by Dr. Jay Wile

Anatomy Coloring Book

The Complete Medicinal Herbal by Penelope Ody

Pantry Principle by Kathryn Louis Download for free

Sporadically Assigned Articles

Optional Additional Resources:
(Not necessary, but you may find these resources useful for exercise.
Choose which ever type of exercise appeals to you.)

Leslie Sansone: Walk at Home
The Firm: Power Half Hour

Health, Anatomy and Physiology Overview for 2009

Food and Nutrition

During the months of January, February and March, we will read The Pantry Principle, work on learning to develop a healthy eating tradition in our families, and implement a food storage program.

Exercise and Health

You are encouraged to begin or continue a regular exercise program and get enough sleep. Hopefully, you will be inspired to attempt the Physical Fitness Award Program with your family from the Family Home Evening Resource Book. If you can’t get everyone in the family into it, at least go for the award yourself.

Anatomy

The Human Body: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made is a quite readable book on this subject. Use it along with the Anatomy Coloring Book over 2009 for a great introduction into this amazingly interesting subject.

Natural Health

The Complete Medicinal Herbal is a fascinating read and will give you a nice beginning in the use of herbs for good health.

Journal

Keep a journal for recording new knowledge, menu plans, exercise goals, etc.

Extra Credit

At the end of this study, you should be ready for the General Biology and Natural Sciences exams. Study with CLEP Biology (REA)

Health, Anatomy, and Physiology Monthly Assignment Schedule

January 2009

Begin Pantry Principle with the first four menus, or use it as a guide to design your own menus this month. Keep a journal for recording new knowledge, menu plans, exercise goals, etc.

Exercise (accumulate points for the Physical Fitness Award Program), drink plenty of water, and get enough sleep.