Homeschool Connections Winter 2024

HOMESCHOOL

CONNECTIONS

Vol. 1 No. 2 Winter 2024

A Resource for Homeschool Families in Central North Carolina

A STEP BACK IN TIME...

Students Experience the Art of Regency Dancing at the English Country Dance

w w w. c n c h o m e s c h o o l . c o m

BUILDING DREAMS SINCE 1999

HOME ENHANCEMENTS, INC WILLIAM SMITH (336) 669-4426 hmeninc@triad.rr.com homeenhancementsinc.com

Our Features Looking for the perfect property?

Adding On or Remodeling?

Licensed and Certified Residential Builders.

(Single-Family) (Regular-Family) Serving NC Asheboro, Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem

Greetings!

HOMESCHOOL

CONNECTIONS

Welcome to the second issue of Homeschool Connections! And thank you to everyone who emailed, texted and called with such positive feedback from our first issue! I was overwhelmed by your kindness and support.

PUBLISHER/ C R E AT I V E DIRECTOR

This issue was an exciting one to put together. The English Country Dance was one of my daughter’s favorite activities, and it was so fun to connect with Beth Polson to learn a little bit about the history behind it. And I was blessed to be able to talk with the Miller family about their unique backgound, and who, I must add, are one of the most personable, down-to-earth, and amazing families I’ve ever met. I know you’ll be as inspired as I was to read about teen entrepreneurs Lexi Ou and Abby Jones. Also on these pages, homeschool mom Melody Gwyn brings us another true-crime story from her podcast, and Deanna Gravely gives us great advice on how to overcome the mid-year slump. This issue is jam-packed with all of these stories and much more!

Heidi Atwell

Homeschool Connections is published three times per year and distributed free of charge to homeschool families in Randolph County, NC and surrounding areas.

Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without express written consent of the publisher.

I want to say a huge THANK YOU to all of our contributors. I enjoyed connecting with you all and hearing more about the many incredible resources available in our homeschool community.

Also, thank you to all of our awesome advertisers! This magazine is entirely funded through advertising dollars and distributed free of charge to homeschool families, so without these businesses we wouldn’t be able to provide this valuable resource.

Please support them if you are able, and tell them you saw their ad in Homeschool Connections!

Happy homeschooling!

Heidi

Homeschool Connections 336-653-5974 www.cnchomeschool.com

IN THIS ISSUE...

4 E nrich Your Studies with Cultural Immersion

12 F amily Finance: Every Situation is Unique

20 Leadership Building: Carolina Dance and Gymnastics Mentoring Program

6 Youth Sports at the YMCA

14 H ard Times and True Crimes: The Boone Bathtub Murders

22 Co-op Spotlight: Kid’s Rush Co-Op

16 C over Story: The English Country Dance

26 More Than Books...

Explore What the Randolph County Public Libraries Have to Offer

7 T een Entrepreneurs: The Prose of Abby Rose 8 F amily Spotlight: The Miller Family 10 S culpting Smiles with Clayful Creations 11 W ords of Wisdom from Homeschool Graduate and Small Business Owner Alexis Ou

18 S mall Business: Tea Talk with Mary Murkin 19 H ealth and Wellness: Tips for a Healthier Winter

24 Field Trips for Animal Lovers

28 Just for Fun—Winter Fun 30 Homeschool Advice: How to Overcome the Mid-Year Slump

On the Cover: Area homeschoolers gather for the Fall 2023 English Country Dance at Adaumont Farm in Trinity.

Photo credit ©Janet Phillips www.cnchomeschool.com | 3

CULTURAL STUDIES

Enrich Your Studies with Cultural Immersion

By Gwenna Smith

E

ach summer for the past 10 years, along with Terre des Langue, I’ve coordinated a group of French teens to immerse into our culture for 3 weeks. I’ve connected over 70 students with families, as well as personally hosting 12 French students in my home.

It’s been a rewarding and blessed experience for me and the other host families.

Long before I place a student for hosting, I study each French applicant and I pray to find a suitable host family with common interests. Once a match is made, I am there to support them. Many times hosts collaborate outings and experiences. Terre des Langue covers all travel costs and provides a small stipend for you to provide room and board, which consists of meals and a bed. The students bring insurance and spending money.

Luckily, hosts are not required to know French. All students have taken English for at least 5 years and we use Google translate for clarification when we need it. Most students also speak Spanish.

Many can speak Italian or German, too.

This summer, from June 14 to July 8, ten teens ages 13-18 and their chaperone

Many friendships have been formed through the Terre des Langue program. Above, the Gwyn family traveled to Paris to visit with the family of the student they hosted.

4 | Winter 2024

teacher have signed up for an immersive trip and are seeking host families.

“Why France?” you may ask. Well, the friendship between France and the United States was established at the beginning of our nation when they offered support during the Revolutionary War. Then, in 1803, French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte sold the entire Louisiana territory to America for 4 cents an acre. And in French students and their host families gather for a group photo.

1886 France gifted us the Statue of Liberty.

Through the years, France and America a deeper understanding of different have continued to interact politically and cultures. Taking care of someone else’s socially. kid builds universal trust and creates a bond with French parents whom you may Welcoming a student into your home or may not meet in person. Many host continues to strengthen the French/ families have traveled to France to stay American relationship. Hosts come in with the reciprocating family. all sizes and shapes... from parents with kids, married or single, to adults without Overall, hosting a French teen can be a kids in the home, such as grandparents, transformative experience, promoting aunts and uncles. The goal is to blend cultural awareness, personal growth, and the student into your family network. lasting connections between individuals and communities.

Hosting a French teen promotes goodwill, cooperation, and a sense of Terre des Langue also offers an shared humanity. For the host family, exchange program for student ages 13 having a French teen in the home to 18 to immerse in France. We have a can provide insights into the French group planned for June 11-26, 2024. education system, social norms, and They, along with their chaperone, will lifestyle, offering a unique educational leave and return to/from Chalotte. experience. The student will gain If you would like to find out more about independence, adaptablilty, and a the Terre des Langue program, you can positive view of the United States. contact me at Gwenna Smith The benefits of hosting are long-lasting.

Gsmith.terredeslangues.com First time hosts are not usually aware 336-355-0848 of the positive influence that hospitality If you’re interesting in hosting a French gives their family. Hosting a French teen student, you can find my form “Host allows both the host family and the visitor Family Information” at: https://form. to learn about each other’s customs, jotform.com/231315763073149 n traditions, and daily life, fostering

Our experience as a host family

By Ann Fechner

I have to admit, when my friend, Gwenna, first asked me to host a French foreign exchange student for 3 weeks back in 2016, I confidently declined! After all, what would I do with some teenager from across the globe for three loooong weeks? By the next spring, the Lord started softening my heart toward the idea. By the summer of 2017, my husband and I... sort of reluctantly agreed to give it a try.

I can still remember meeting Leo for the first time in the Asheboro Aldi’s parking lot and making introductions.

Little did I know that the next three weeks would change my life so much for the better! The language barrier was a challenge at times, but it was so fun to communicate not only language, but customs, cultural differences, and more! One night, Leo even cooked us one of his favorite French meals, so we could experience a bit of France in our home!

Our second French student, Valentin, then and now. We taught him how to play baseball and have been blessed to have been able to keep in touch with him over the years.

Having Leo stay with us was loads of fun and I had one of the best summers I could remember! As a result, we were very excited to host another French student, Valentin, the next year. Again, it was an incredible experience and we connected very well. I kept in touch with Valentin and enjoyed teaching him English even after he returned home, and he started teaching me a little French, too. I got to know Valentin and his whole family as we continued a great ongoing relationship. By this time, the Lord was burdening my heart to really invest time and effort in not only teaching them English, but also praying for them regularly.

After hosting Gauthier in 2019, Covid arrived on the scene. The world seemed to come to a stand-still, but not for God. By then, I was praying regularly for the French people and not only my French students. The Lord called me to travel to several cities in France to share the Gospel with the French people in August of 2021, in the midst of the Covid chaos.

I was able to meet Leo and his family and Valentin and his family as well while I was there! How wonderful!!

Since that first trip to France, we have also hosted Maëlys and Enzo. The Lord called me to go on a second missionary trip to France with my daughter in April of 2023, where I was able to meet both of their families as well! The summer of 2023, we hosted Isis, who we plan to meet briefly next summer, Lord willing, on my third missionary journey to France in May of 2024!

Leo, the one who started it all! We took him up to Washington DC on a day trip while he was here in the summer of 2017. I was able to visit him at his parents’ house in Paris in 2021.

We took Maëlys on a trip to the Creation Museum in Kentucky.

We always made our students a French flag fruit pizza! Shown here is Isis, who we hosted in 2023.

As you can see, my life has been forever changed for the better because my husband and I decided to take the chance and host a French foreign exchange student. Honestly, even through the challenges we have faced along with all the great times, we have been blessed beyond measure! I would encourage you to give it a try...it just may change your life for the better, too! À bientôt!

HOST A STUDENT FROM FRANCE JUNE 14-JULY 8, 2024 Contact Gwenna Smith, NC Coordinator gsmith.terredeslangue@gmail.com | 336-355-0848 www.cnchomeschool.com | 5

EXTRACURRICULARS

Youth Sports At The Randolph-Asheboro YMCA

By Nick McNeill

A

t the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA, we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Through the Y’s youth sports programs, hundreds of youth are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement.

Organized youth sports provide a valuable opportunity to help children build healthy spirits, minds and bodies.

That is why youth sports at the Y centers around participation, growth and incorporating the values of respect, honesty, caring and responsibility.

Fall and Spring Soccer is for kids ages 3–18. These recreation soccer leagues offer players of ranging skills the opportunity to learn and compete together. Players practice weekly and play 8 games over the course of the season. Participants play in their specific age groups and are divided by boys and girls, with the exception being the U19 age group, which is coed. During the winter the Y offers Indoor Co-Ed soccer.

This fast paced, off the wall soccer game is played in the YMCA gymnasium.

6 | Fall 2023

Volleyball, for girls in 3rd-12th grades, is designed to teach the basic skills of volleyball to those who have never played and improve the skills of those who have. Athletes learn the fundamentals of volleyball, with a focus placed on ball control, offensive and defensive tactics, rules and regulations of the game.

Winter Basketball is designed to teach newcomers the basic skills of basketball and refine skills for returning players. This league is for K-5th grades and focuses on ball control, shooting techniques, offensive and defensive tactics, and rules and regulations of the game. Midnight Basketball is held during the summer and is for players in grades K-12th.

T-Ball, Modified T-Ball and Basic Coach Pitch Baseball instruct children ages 3-12 on throwing, catching, hitting, fielding techniques, rules and regulations of the game.

Competitive swimming is offered through the FAST Swim Team, giving swimmers the option of swimming with the YMCA Swim Team and/ or with the U.S. Swimming year-round team. Emphasis is placed on personal skill improvement as well as good sportsmanship and team

spirit. Dedication, teamwork, discipline, and goal setting are all objectives of the program. The Sharks is a summer league swim team for swimmers ages 6 to 18 (based on age as of June 1).

The YMCA core values are emphasized in each program with a focus on teamwork,

sportsmanship, and fair play for all. For more information on the youth sports program at the Y, including registration and season dates, visit www. randolphasheboroymca.com.

Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, your child can find a place on a RandolphAsheboro YMCA team! n

TEEN ENTREPRENEURS

The Prose of Abby Rose Teen Writer Abigail Jones Shares Her Story video gaming, sewing, knitting, crocheting, crossstitch, embroidering, biking, hiking, swimming, playing bass guitar, singing, and the occasional pottery making.

M

y name is Abigail Rose Jones.

I’m currently in 11th grade and have been homeschooled all my life. I’ve been drawing since I was two, but it wasn’t until I started school that I fell in love with writing. And it wasn’t until my sister, Ella, was finding pictures for covers for her book that I decided to start my own book series. And with God’s help, I’ve written more than thirty books.

Other than writing, my hobbies include typing, drawing, painting, computer graphic art, video game coding,

I illustrate my own books as well. I use a combination of Microsoft Paint, Sketchbook, and occasionally Paint 3D to create covers for my books.

I often create illustrations using the same method, but I’ve also drawn a lot of the illustrations using pencil and pen and ink, often editing them using the computer before inputing them into my books.

So far, I’ve published two books, a novel and a book of poetry. My novel, “The Katara Story,” is a magical realism book about two sisters who race against time to save the life of a creature who is more legendary than they first realize. And my book of poetry, “The Prose of Abby Rose: Poems of the Heart,” is a collection of poems I’ve written over time, going all the way back to some of my first poems.

I hope to publish the sequel to my novel, “Katara 2,” which is already well under way. And currently I’m also working on a new story, “When the Black Birds Fly Home.”

Self-publishing, using Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, is a lot of hard work. It may cost way less than other methods of publishing, but I had to create the cover, edit the story myself, and meet all the requirements. I had to resubmit my cover multiple times. There is a higher chance of still having mistakes, even after editing for what feels like hundreds of times. But when you finally hold that book in your hands—your book— something you’ve created, it really is worth all the work. n Abigail’s books can be found on Amazon.com by searching “The Katara Story,” or “The Prose of Abby Rose: Poems of the Heart.”

What’s Precious to Me Brooks in the meadows and flowers by the tree, These are the things I find so dear to me, Birds in the sky and the thrill of the sea, A glimpse of all things precious to me, Sunsets beyond mountains and the starry night veil, The song of the wind o’er hill and dale, Seashells and long tales of the days of yore, Simple things be thy pleasure and how could thee ever want more?

Some search for riches and pearls and gold, Diamonds and rubies and the treasures of old, But such things are a fantasy, A dream of folly I say, Because what greater treasures are there than the ones of today?

But the greatest gift is one we didn’t deserve, When Christ left His Kingdom for the torture of earth, And gave His life for us upon the tree, For what is most precious to Him is you and me, But there in the ground His body didn’t stay, For three days later He rose from the grave, So, when the what’s precious to earth fades away, I can stand with Him and say my soul is saved.

—From “The Prose of Abby Rose: Poems of the Heart”

Sample page of “The Katara Story” Juvia bravely glanced around the room. Nothing seemed different or out of place. She took a deep shaky breath and glanced inside the pen. She hoped Tarris was right and there was nothing in there, but there was. A little orange chonila with tips of brown lay asleep; nestled in the straw-filled pen.

At first, Juvia saw that there was nothing wrong with the little chonila. But then she realized that the upper part of its left back leg had a big deep wound, it looked awful!

Just then, the chonila stirred and woke up. She looked around and then up at Juvia. Her frightened eyes, staring sadly at Juvia, told of the fear the little chonila felt. Juvia had this odd feeling the tiny creature knew what was going to happen. She let out a soft cooing sound at Juvia and then lay back down, her orange fur trembling.

“You checking out my pretty prize, eh?” a deep voice suddenly said.

Juvia looked up in horror and saw a hefty, muscular man with a short beard and a long ax over his shoulder.

Mr. Benson.

He was twice the size of young Juvia and way, way taller. “You’re not going to kill it, are you?” Juvia asked him; her dark eyes wide.

Mr. Benson chucked a little—and not in a way Juvia liked. A smirk tugged at his mouth. “Don’t worry, little lady; it won’t feel a thing.”

CNCHomeschool.com | 7

FAMILY SPOTLIGHT

Growing Up Amish In this issue we’re excited to talk with Brian and Tina Miller, owners of Miller Construction, about what it was like growing up in an Amish community and how it has influenced their life today.

Can you tell me a little bit about your family?

We’re a homeschool family of five. Our children are 14 and 12, and the baby is 6 months old. We have always homeschooled and it’s been a blessing to have that flexibility.

Both Brian and I grew up in Amish families in Holmes County Ohio. Although we only lived 15 miles apart we didn’t know each other until we met during our teen years. We got married at a young age and dreamed of moving away from Ohio.

When the opportunity presented itself, we packed up and moved to North Caroina in 2009 when we were expecting our first baby.

What was it like growing up in an Amish community?

Growing up in this culture meant we didn’t have cars, electricity or many modern conveniences. Traveling by horse and buggy, walking or riding a bicycle were our main ways of getting around.

Both of us attended private parochial schools where we learned in a one room school setting. There were 1 or 2 teachers for all the students, grades 1-8.

In our schools, students graduated when 8th grade 8 | Winter 2024

was completed, which was at the age of 14. After graduation, boys worked on the farm or began working a full time job in the community.

Girls normally helped their mothers with sewing, regular housework as well as being a “maid” for moms with newborns. This job normally lasted four to six weeks and consisted of laundry, cleaning, cooking, entertaining older siblings and gardening/canning when in season.

Growing up this way meant being tightly knitted in with your community, church, family,cousins, friends and neighbors.

I, Tina have many memories of gathering to help neighbors and aunts clean house, do canning, tackle the sewing and mending piles, get ready for church services or whatever else was needing to be done.

I, Brian have many fond memories of harvesting crops on our farm with horse drawn equipment. We always had an abundance of help, though we rarely asked for it.

At noon, Grandpa would bale the hay and in the evening we’d begin the journey of driving along the rows of bales to start loading the hay wagons. Soon a few uncles, cousins or neighbors would come help us. Mom always provided us with a mint iced garden tea to keep us hydrated.

Neighbors and family within a certain distance would gather in each other’s homes for church services every other

Sunday. Normally we would only have to host once or twice a year. Services were usually in the top of a barn or in the basement of the house where rows and rows of benches were set up. The men sat on one side and the women on the other, we would begin around 8:30 with singing a few songs lead by the men, followed by two and a half to three hours of preaching.

The hosting family would prepare a simple meal of bread, ham, cheese, pickles, red beets and a dessert of pies or cookies.

All the dishes and benches were stored in a customized wagon that would travel from house to house.

What was it like moving to NC and adjusting to a completely new environment?

Well, both of us can equally say that we didn’t realize what the community meant to us until we moved away.

Thankfully, we were both on the same page and felt hopeful and excited about the possibilities of starting our family in a different place.

For the first 5 to 8 years we just couldn’t seem to find connections. We spent a lot of time as a family and putting down roots. The Lord has been so faithful to us and one day as we were out on a walk a neighbor rode by and stopped to say hello. From that young family’s mother we heard about the T.H.E. classes at New Life. That was the start of “the bridge” being built from our life growing up to where we are today.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Our days vary so much that our schedule rarely looks the same. A typical day on our farm begins with feeding our animals, milking the cow and goat then gathering in the house for breakfast and devotions. After this we begin some bookwork. The children do their math independently then we work on grammar, history and creative writing together.

Beniah goes with Brian to work on the job frequently, and completes his bookwork in the evening on those days.

In the afternoons, we like to catch up on whatever

needs to be done, some days it’s working on business paperwork or cleaning at The Farmhouse—an Airbnb on our property that we rent out.

In this cooler season we can be found at the sewing machine, knitting or making a baked good for the evening snack.

At night we enjoy gathering around card games or reading stories aloud out of The Fish Wrapper Books.

How do you incorporate your Amish background in raising your children?

One of the blessings of raising our children in this lifestyle has been to watch them get excited about raising their own animals and being entrepreneurial.

They also gain the valuable life skills that we grew up with—basic things like teaching them to sew, bake, garden and preserve food, process meat and help maintain our farm. In the process we hope to teach them the value in working hard, playing hard and being a good steward of what the Lord has given us.

How do you incorporate the skills you learned growing up into your construction business?

Since I graduated at 14, it gave me an array of opportunities to work in many different fields. I was

mentored by business owners in furniture making, working at an orchard, installing roofs, siding and windows, power washing with an uncle, training horses and working at a fence company.

Today I’m so thankful for all the experiences I was a part of—the way I was taught how to pay attention to details.

My goal is to incorporate the standards and values into each and every job I do, with the customer’s satisfaction in mind.

Miller Construction Concepts LLC Specializing in Window and door replacements • Serving Randolph and surrounding counties • Over 20 years construction experience

Thank you so much for sharing your story with us!

We are glad to share our story because it’s a part of who we are. However, we never want people to be on the outside looking in and think that it was all grand.

There are challenges in this life, whether we grow up Amish or not—and we all need to look to the Lord first for fulfillment. n

BEFORE

AFTER

Call or Email today for a FREE Estimate!

Brian Miller

330.763.3227

Bttmiller1987@gmail.com www.cnchomeschool.com | 9

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

SCULPTING SMILES WITH CLAYFUL CREATIONS feeling the clay made me mindful of the need to be present in the moment. Every project starts by “wedging” the clay to combine the particles and remove any air bubbles. Only after its wedged can it be thrown and centered, and that takes LOTS of practice.

By Tracy Levy

A

crazy thing happens when clay and water combine to turn into artful objects—you feel better!

While it’s true that making pottery allows for the creation of something either artistic or functional—and often it’s BOTH—the act of throwing clay is simply satisfying to the soul. I didn’t expect that when I decided to take my first pottery course four years ago after moving from the North to Elon, NC. But my quest to find a new creative outlet in addition to my graphic design business would take me back to my childhood

love of playing in the mud.

I’m inspired by nature, so the process of creating my artistic, yet functional works is a challenge and a joy. The desire to move to the “next level” motivates me to always improve. My mind is always spinning with the endless possibilities for creative design, but letting things just evolve organically is really key to producing functional design pieces.

I embarked upon my potter’s journey right as COVID started, so I immediately welcomed the therapeutic aspect of it. What I expected to be simply a fun hobby turned out to be a supersoothing escape. With the addition of good music,

There are many events that can change the course of a person’s life. I never conceived that working with clay could make such a positive impact to clear my mind of the stresses of everyday life. I've perfected my craft, sold my pieces, created my own website, and built my own pottery studio.

Recently, I’ve gotten so much out of teaching children by playing and creating with them; but more than that, they just make me laugh. I’ve had lots of experience and had my patience tested while bringing up my son. That time had challenged me to search out new and interesting ways to help him learn, explore creativity, enhance selfesteem, and prepare him for life.

the Japanese call “WABISABI.” It’s the philosophy of resisting the need to correct a mistake, but to embrace its uniqueness, quirks, and imperfections instead.

I’ve worked out a pottery program that introduces the therapeutic and creative benefits of pottery to children.

The tactile nature of working with clay not only stimulates the senses, it enhances focus and also provides a holistic outlet for communication.

I am passionate about extending these benefits to children with learning or social challenges, recognizing the positive impact that artistic expression can have on their overall individuality, sense of accomplishment, and development.

I look forward to meeting you and to providing a meaningful and enriching experience for your children. n

Just as life can be imperfect, making clay has instilled in me an appreciation for the “imperfect beauty” that

Frickery Frackery Pottery • 2136 S. Church St. Burlington NC 27215 Wheel Throwing & Hand Building Kids • Teens • Adults • Beginners Friends Night Out • Date Nights Workshops • Fun Summer & Holiday Camps Home School • Company Team Building

y s r s a e l t C t o P

www.FrickeryFrackeryPottery.com • frickeryfrackerypottery@gmail.com 10 | Winter 2024

Born and raised in New Jersey, Tracy Levy studied Graphic Design at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. She has been working as a Graphic Designer/Art Director in New York for the past 35 years. In 2019, Tracy, her husband and their tiny toy poodle moved to Elon NC, where she lives and works today. Tracy started Frickery Frackery Pottery, a small personalized pottery studio offering pottery classes to all that want to learn the art under guided supervision. She can be found teaching in her shared space studio at Crafting For You Artist Studio at 2136 S. Church Street, Burlington, NC 27215 or selling at craft shows and in local galleries. Tracy’s pieces reflect the experiences of her life in color, texture, fun and joy. www.frickeryfrackerypottery.com.

GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM A HOMESCHOOL GRADUATE Each issue, we will be featuring a homeschool graduate’s story.

This time, we’re excited to hear from Alexis Ou, a 2022 homeschool graduate. more on curriculum that would help me pursue my business passion.

H

ello there, I’m Alexis! I’m a 19-year-old entrepreneur from Statesville, North Carolina. I am the oldest of 9 and was homeschooled from the start.

I discovered my passion for business early. As a little kid, I would play store and post office with anyone that was willing to be my customer.

Being homeschooled gave me the opportunity to pursue my desire for business and resale at a young age. About five years ago, at the age of 14, I started reselling items online as a hobby when I had some spare time. Soon after, I realized the potential for serious profit!

Once I graduated in 2022, I started dedicating my time to selling much more. After a few years of selling online, I had a blessed opportunity to work in a shop in downtown Statesville and have my own little corner in there.

That gave me real life experience and skills towards my dream of owning my own store, outside of what I was already doing online. Working to build a successful business, by God’s grace, I opened up my first store on November 4th, 2023.

None of that would have been possible without my parents, who played a huge role in supporting me. My mom never said no to helping me, and because she was my primary teacher and we were blessed to spend so much time together, she noticed my passion for business early on and did what she could to help me succeed. She would drive me to different stores, go shopping for used and new items to resell, and help me find and focus on the right educational materials and classes that would help me in

what I needed. My dad was also very supportive and excited for me when he noticed my early business passion, being that he also is an entrepreneur and opened his own business at a very young age as well. I owe all my success to God, who has been with me every step of the way and opened doors only He could have opened.

One of my favorite illustrations is about the growth of bamboo plants. It teaches us that even though we may not see immediate results, progress is still happening. For five years, the bamboo plant shows no visible growth above ground, but beneath the surface, it is steadily growing. Then, in just six weeks, it shoots up to a staggering height of 90 feet. This reminds us that patience and perseverance are key and that success may take time to happen.

With a lot of prayer and perseverance, God will guide you towards His will and help you succeed in whatever talents you have.

If you have a dream, I encourage you to pursue it. It won’t be easy, but with God’s guidance and a desire to succeed, blessings will come your way. n

I loved the freedom that homeschooling offered me so that I could earn some of my own money while still being able to focus on my education. Business classes and writing were always my favorite subjects, and I also enjoyed being around people, so homeschool co-op days were always very exciting for me.

I learned finance and social skills early on. I would spend my mornings following a routine, which included life skills and then completing schoolwork. As I got a little older and more into my reselling work, I started integrating my schoolwork and business together. I started focusing

Alexis’s store is the Uptown Thrift Shop, located at 531 North Greenbriar Road in Statesville.

www.cnchomeschool.com | 11

FAMILY FINANCE

EVERY SITUATION IS UNIQUE

By Graham Jones, Financal Advisor

“What should I do?” The question comes up often enough—with relationships, arguments, family calendars, curricula, and yes, even family finances. It’s a question we get asked regularly when meeting with folks who are considering a financial change or are trying to make a plan for the future. What we have found over and over again is this: Every situation is unique.

When it comes to our finances, it’s not hard to see where the confusion comes from. Even when you look towards popular personal finance gurus like Dave Ramsey, Suzie Orman, or Clark Howard it’s funny how often you end up getting a different answer. The questions stay the same, but the answers can vary and often we can end up more confused than we were before. Amid all of this competing information, how do you develop the best financial plan for your family?

Ask the Right Questions A great first step in developing your financial plan can simply be to make sure you are asking the right questions.

There may not be a single correct answer to your financial concerns, but taking the time to contemplate the situation can really help make sure that you are going down the right path. This is where guidelines are the most useful before turning introspective, and starting with the big picture is more important than trying to pinpoint the perfect solution. I like to focus on these big topics before digging deeper into each:

1

What are things you regret doing?

In order to move forward, it's helpful to take a look at your past financial decisions and learn from them. Are there things you wish you had done differently? Consider such things as oversized weddings, failed businesses, family pets that quickly grew out of the “cute” phase, or student loans that may still be hanging around years later.

12 | Winter 2024

2

What are career goals for you as parents?

Take a moment to think about your career(s). What are your income goals, promotion opportunities, career changes, benefit packages offered, etc?

3

How are you managing the income that you do have?

Take an honest look at your current financial habits. Do you have a budget? Are you overspending? Are you spending in the places that you find fulfillment? Are you modeling responsible spending toward the kids?

4

Are there BIG financial goals that you have for the future?

Now, time to dream... think about your annual vacation, consider your next car purchase, plan for the kids’ college or your retirement. Having clear goals in mind will help you develop a plan to meet them.

Prioritize What’s Important to You The next step is one that builds upon the first, and that’s finding a way to prioritize what is important to you. At the end of the day, we only have so much money to go around and it is vital that everyone in the house is on the same page with those funds! If you can prioritize what’s most important to you, it can help everyone pull as a team and also set an example for the kids in the house.

Intentionality matters an awful lot, and I have always stood by the phrase that “we can do anything we want, but we can’t do everything.” Sometimes these are big things like weighing a new car versus a large and memorable vacation.

Sometimes it’s small things, like how often we are comfortable eating out, and what pocket money/allowance we give to the kids each week (if any!).

Ultimately, this is a bit like building a budget. Every family has a set budget to work with, but they never look the same from one household to the next.

Make Sure Everyone’s on the Same Page Finally, it’s worth making sure that everyone is on the same page. Although

the advice is a bit cliché, communication really is key. When adults in the family communicate well, it can keep disagreements at bay and help work toward a bigger vision. This also helps cast a vision for other family members who see healthy discussion, problem solving at times, and can even invite them into the conversation for things they might value too. We often want money conversations with our kids to be something like “save your money in a piggy bank” or “don’t buy the gumball, and instead hold out for the new game down the road.” While these are valuable lessons on their own, if we as parents can set positive examples day in and day out, then our own healthy money habits will set a powerful example for our kids, too.

Speaking of my own family, we’ll probably keep eating out more than we should. We will keep the NC Zoo membership, even though we don’t use it as much as we initially planned.

Saving for retirement will compete with paying down our home mortgage, and a thousand other small decisions will have to be made every month. Would you do the same as us? Maybe, or maybe not.

But finding what has worked out well for us brings so much peace and some genuine conversations along the way.

Like so many things, our financial wellbeing evolves over time and changes with each life season. At the end of the day, though, we are working to pull together instead of pulling apart. And for you and yours, I know that every situation is unique. Take the time to find what works for you. n

Homeschooling on a Budget One of the biggest obstacles to homeschooling is the expense—and rightly so. Curricula, supplies and classes can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. Homeschooling on a budget requires resourcefulness and creativity. Below are nine money-saving tips for homeschoolers. By incorporating some of these tips into your homeschooling, rest assured that you can provide your child with a quality education without breaking the bank.

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Free Educational Resources: Take advantage of free online resources, such as Khan Academy, Coursera, and educational YouTube channels. Many educational websites offer free lessons, worksheets, and educational games.

Library Resources: Make use of your local library. Libraries have a vast collection of books, educational DVDs, and other resources. They may also offer free workshops or events.

Open Educational Resources (OER): Explore Open Educational Resources, which are freely accessible, openly licensed materials that can be used for teaching.

Websites like OER Commons provide a wealth of educational content.

Community Resources: Tap into local community resources.

Museums, the 4-H, nature centers, and community centers may offer free or low-cost educational programs and activities.

Join Homeschooling Groups: Connect with other homeschooling families in your area. They may share resources, organize group buys for educational materials, or offer advice on budget-friendly curriculum options.

Secondhand Materials: Look for secondhand curriculum materials, textbooks, and educational games.

You can find these at thrift stores, online marketplaces, or through homeschooling swap groups.

Digital Learning Apps: Explore free or low-cost educational apps. There are many apps covering various subjects that can supplement your curriculum and make learning interactive.

Plan Field Trips Wisely: Plan field trips to places that offer educational value at a reasonable cost or for free. Many museums and cultural institutions have discounted or free admission days.

DIY Educational Materials: Get creative and make your own teaching materials. DIY projects can be both cost-effective and tailored to your child’s learning style. Pinterest has a wealth of ideas!

Whether your goal is to save for college, prepare for retirement, develop an estate strategy, or preserve wealth — our PERSONALIZED service focuses on YOUR needs, wants, and financial goals.

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www.midtownfa.com www.cnchomeschool.com | 13

HARD TIMES & TRUE CRIMES

The Boone Bathtub Murders

By Melody Gwyn

B

oone, North Carolina, named for the famous pioneer Daniel Boone, is a quaint little town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains; a college town, home of Appalachian State University.

It became part of the UNC University system in 1971.

Many North Carolinians make a yearly trek in the fall to see the vibrant fall foliage and to visit Grandfather Mountain. Then after the leaves have disappeared tourism picks up even more with the winter tourists.

Boone is the kind of place that appeals to everyone; families, college students, and retirees. From the ski resorts and various camping and hiking trails to the amusement parks and the Blue Ridge Parkway, anyone can find something to do in and around Boone.

But people do not equate it with being the type of place where violent crime happens—until it does.

Bryce and Virginia Durham had moved to Boone in the early days of 1970. They had previously lived in Mount Airy where Bryce had worked as a loan officer. When the opportunity to buy his own car dealership arrived, Bryce jumped on it. He had moved his family an hour and a half west to the mountain town where his two teenage children, Ginny and Bobby Joe, would both attend college at Appalachian State. Ginny, now in her early twenties, had gotten married recently and was living four miles away with her husband Troy Hall. Now it was just Bryce, Virginia, and Bobby Joe living at the new home located at the top of a steep dead-end drive.

A strong winter snowstorm was forecast for the area on a windy February afternoon in 1972. Residents prepared for the event and around three o’clock pm the snow began falling. Weather conditions

THE DURHAM FAMILY 14 | Winter 2024

can change quickly in the high country due to the mountainous terrain, resulting in dangerous road conditions in the blink of an eye. But that did not deter many residents. After all, this is a college town and there is no shortage of college kids just itching to play in weather like this.

On that evening in February, Bryce Durham had decided not to let the snowy precipitation deter him from his scheduled activities. He headed to a Rotary Club meeting in the evening despite the weather and had arranged to meet both Virginia and Bobby Joe back at the dealership later so that they all could ride home together.

Due to the weather, the meeting finished a bit early and the men headed home.

One of Bryce’s fellow club members followed him back to the car dealership where Bryce was to pick up his wife and son.

Earlier that day, a fourwheel drive GMC Yukon, nicknamed a “Jimmy” had been delivered to the dealership. Bryce decided to drive it home that evening.

Maybe he had been itching to use the Jimmy and this seemed like the perfect chance.

According to several neighbors, the family arrived home that evening around 9:00 pm. One neighbor remembered seeing the car heading up the drive around that time because the 9:00 movie was just coming on.

Shortly after 10:00 that night, a few miles away, Ginny and Troy were relaxing at home listening to the stereo when they received an odd phone call. Troy answered and could not hear the caller very well but thought it sounded like his mother-in-law. He asked, “Virginia, is that you?” She whispered that intruders were in the house and they were beating Bryce and Bobby Joe in a back room. Troy thought he may have heard her say, “Help!” Then the call was cut off. Troy tried to call back but the line was busy and he could not get the call through. He thought that maybe the call was a prank.

However, when Troy told Ginny what the caller had said, she knew her mother

would not joke about something like that. They had to go to the house and check it out. Unfortunately, when they tried to go, their car would not start. The wind and snow were blowing like crazy by now but they persuaded a neighbor to drive them to her parent’s house. Due to the increasingly dangerous road conditions, the short four-mile drive took them 20 minutes to make.

When they arrived, Ginny stayed in the car at the bottom of the driveway while Troy and their neighbor, Cecil, walked up to check on things. The lights were on inside the house and upon inspection they found the door from the garage to the

house was unlocked, so the two men entered. Troy later recalled that the first thing he heard was water running.

As they searched the house it was apparent it was ransacked. The men’s wallets had been rifled through, the phone was ripped out of the wall, and papers were strewn everywhere. This was concerning enough but nothing could have prepared them for the horrific scene they were about to find.

they had been strangled with a rope. All three were clearly dead. Later it was determined that Bryce and Bobby Joe had still been alive when their heads were shoved under and they had died of drowning after being strangled. Bryce had been struck on the head with a blunt instrument. Mrs. Durham had been hit on the face and Bobby Joe still had a loose cord around his neck.

Upon entering the bathroom, they found Ginny’s parents and brother leaning over and into the bathtub, heads submerged, with their hands bound behind their backs.

Water was still running from the faucet. It appeared

Who was responsible for this horrific crime? Listen to the fascinating conclusion of the Boone bathtub murders and the most recent update that solved this 50-year-old cold case at hardtimesandtruecrimes.com.

Melody Gwyn and her good friend and fellow homeschool mom Darlene Hildreth meet once a week for coffee while taking turns telling each other fascinating, historical true crime stories on their true crimes podcast, Hart Times & True Crimes.

Melody, married to Tim for over three decades, has spent the bulk of her parenting years homeschooling her five children, while simultaneously working a side hustle or two.

Melody became interested in true crime as a teen after discovering a local author’s books at the library. Her love of reading, writing, and murder mysteries converged when she met Darlene and they discovered their mutual desire to produce a podcast telling true crime stories.

108 Sunset Avenue Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 628-4708

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www.cnchomeschool.com | 15

COVER STORY

The High Point area's very first English Country Dance —A Night at Netherfield— was held on March 14th, 2015.

A STEP BACK IN TIME...

Students Experience the Art of Regency Dancing with English Country Dance

By Heidi Atwell

I

n today’s fast-paced world, it’s refreshing to take a break for an evening and get a taste of what life was like before the advent of cell phones and social media. One way students can experience this is by participating in an English country dance.

These dances provide a safe, unique experience for homeschool students to look forward to each year.

What is an English Country Dance?

English country dance is a traditional style of social dance that originated in England in the 17th century, hearkening to the days of Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice. A precursor to modern square dancing, an English country dance is characterized by a series of coordinated dance patterns performed by groups of dancers, often in long lines or

16 | Winter 2024

sets. These elegant patterns are often geometric and can vary from simple to highly complex. Lively, folk-style music sets the pace and tone for the dance, and a “caller” cues the patterns and steps.

English country dance is characterized by its grace and elegance.

“Our teenaged students are given a place to meet among their peers, while learning and relating to an era of days gone by, with much laughter, through dance.

What a beautiful thing!

—Beth Polson

The English Country dance tends to be much less stressful than other formal dances. Because each

dance is preceded by a mandatory practice dance, students are able to learn the dance moves in advance in a relaxed environment.

For students who may feel awkward at other dances, it’s comforting to know that everyone does the same moves and there are instructions to keep you in step. The worry on the faces of the young men and women disappears as they catch on and find they really enjoy themselves, leaving with big smiles on their faces!

In addition to taking the stress off by having specific dance instructions, attendees don’t have to worry about finding dates or wonder whether or not they'll be asked to dance. Unlike a prom, the English Country Dance is not a “date” dance.

The guidelines are similar to those that would be expected in “society” from the Regency Era and are followed to represent proper

etiquette. Gentlemen must ask the young ladies to dance with proper manners, and ladies should say “yes” to the gentleman’s request if asked with proper manners. In order to give all of the young ladies an opportunity to dance, gentlemen should not ask the same young lady over and over to dance. And because the young ladies generally outnumber the gentlemen, if all gentlemen are dancing, the young ladies may pair up and dance together.

Beth Polson, founder and long-time organizer of the High Point area English country dance, says she enjoyed seeing the students open up, step outside their comfort zones and keep coming back year after year.

The energy in the room was contagious, she says, and most students left exhausted, full of chatter, and completely drenched in sweat... sure signs of a memorable evening!

A Brief History...

Before each dance, students gather for a group photo. This one is from “A Dance at Donwell Gardens” held April 6th, 2023 at Adaumont Farm in Trinity, NC

What to wear Regency-style attire is encouraged but not required.

Gentlemen should wear a suit or a dress shirt, tie, and dress pants. There is a lot of movement in these dances, and young ladies should wear dresses that take into consideration modesty and movement. The dress code prohibits dress that are strapless, backless, minis/ above the knee, or that have spaghetti straps. Some young ladies have used Simplicity pattern 4055 to make their own dresses, and others have modified prom dresses by sewing on cap sleeves.

Upcoming Dances The Burlington dance, for homeschooled students ages 13-18, is currently organized

by Amy Barr with Mandy Foster serving as caller.

The dance is hosted by the Alamance County Christian Home Educators (ACCHE),

To keep costs down, families contribute items for a charcuterie table, which makes for a beautiful and delicious display. In the background is current High Point co-host Tara Raczenski.

but you do not have to be a member of ACCHE to attend. Their next dance is scheduled for February 17th, 2024 in Burlington. For more information, email hello@ acche.org.

The High Point dance, for homeschooled students ages 12 and up, is currently organized by Michelle Armstrong and Tara Raczenski. Mandy Foster lends her calling talent to this one as well. It’s hosted by the Greensboro Home Educators (GHE), but students do not have to be a member of GHE to attend. Their next dance is scheduled for Thursday, March 28th, 2024 at Adaumont Farms in Trinity, with a mandatory practice dance at Rich Fork Baptist Church in Thomasville on Monday, March 25th. To be added to the email interest list, a request may be sent to TriadEnglishCountryDance@ gmail.com. n

Many young ladies choose to make their own dresses or modify prom dresses. Shown here is Michelle Armstrong’s daughter, Caroline, in a dress she made for the dance.

How did a dance style from 17th century England come to modern day North Carolina? Almost 20 years ago, Nancy Bryant of Burlington and her family took a family trip to see some homeschool friends in Pennsylvania. While there, they were invited to participate in an English Country Dance that the local homeschool community was hosting. Nancy and her family loved it so much, they decided to bring the idea down to North Carolina. Nancy learned to call the dances, and she, along with her friend Tracy Carey, organized the first Burlington area dance, the Pemberley Promenade, in the spring of 2006 with about 45 students.

For several years, the dance was open to Alamance County Christian Home Educators (ACCHE), but in 2014, they opened it to any homeschooled students. A group of Classical Conversations students from High Point heard about the dance Above, Beth Polson with her and made the trek to Burlington daughter Taylor before their to attend Alamance County’s 9th very first English Country annual dance, The Snow Ball.

Dance in 2014.

Beth Polson, one of the moms of the group, volunteered to help chaperone the dance. She loved the entire concept of the dance and wanted to learn more about it so she could host one closer to home which would allow the opportunity for more students to attend.

Beth reached out to Tracy and told her she was interested in hosting a dance in the High Point area. Tracy was very gracious and loved the idea of someone else hosting an English Country Dance. She gave Beth lots of advice.

Beth, along with her friends Kim Ridge and Chris Abbott, hosted the first dance in the High Point area—A Night at Netherfield—on March 14th, 2015, and the tradition began.

Kim and Beth worked on every dance together but had many volunteers come and go throughout the years. It was truly a group effort and labor of love. Beth especially admired those volunteer Dads who learned the dances (even if they had two left feet) so everyone would have a partner.

Tracy and Beth agreed that they did not want their dances to conflict with one another so they decided to host on different sides of the calendar. Students from Burlington were invited to attend the High Point dance and vice versa.

Tracy and Beth had fun thinking up new names for each dance that would represent the 1800s in some way. They were blessed to be able to share Nancy Bryant’s talent for Calling the dances. Eventually, Nancy, who started traveling a lot with her husband, stepped away from Calling. The dances went on and new Callers were able to pick up where Nancy left off. Tracy and Beth were so grateful Nancy helped to instruct new Callers along the way and the tradition continued.

Both area dances have now been passed on to new moms in love with the idea of providing a place for students to continue the tradition and share a unique experience with their peers. Unforgettable memories continue to be made, and it is the hope of the organizers that parents continue to see this as an amazing experience for their homeschool communities and that the tradition might even expand to other communites throughout the area. www.cnchomeschool.com | 17

SMALL BUSINESS

Tea Talk

By Mary Murkin

M

y goal in writing about tea is to share with you fun, interesting and healthy information about something as simple as making and drinking loose leaf tea. First and foremost, besides being delicious, tea is good for you!

Believe it or not, tea is the second most popular drink in the world after water. Tea is an ancient drink—nearly 6,000 years old. It was discovered in 2737 BC by Chinese Emperor ShenNung. He was also known as the “Divine Healer.” As legend goes, some tea leaves accidentally blew into the Emperor’s pot of boiling water and the rest is history!

Many regions/countries grow tea, including China, India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, South America, Egypt and USA. The tea plant is formally known as Camellia sinensis plant. This plant produces white tea, green tea, black tea, pu-erh and oolong teas. Before I began my tea journey, I used to think there were white tea plants, green tea plants and black tea plants. I had NO IDEA that they were all from the same plant. What makes

the different tea varieties is how much oxidation the leaves receive when they are picked and dried (for the two extremes, white tea is barely oxidized and black tea is fully oxidized).

There are many fruit teas, herbal teas, root teas and mate teas that are not from the Camellia sinensis plant.

They are grown and then picked, dried and packaged as something to infuse into water to make a drinkable liquid, but they are not truly tea. We are just used to equating the word “tea” with hot brewed beverages that we make and drink.

Now we will focus on how to make one perfect cup of loose leaf tea. First, select a tea. Second, select a teacup or a mug. Next, find a tea infuser (that little wire mesh ball with a chain on it that you never knew what it was for). Lastly, you will need a method to obtain your boiling water (stove top, microwave oven, electric kettle).

Measure out one teaspoon of tea leaves and put them into your infuser. Close and lock the infuser. Place it into your cup and then pour the boiling water over it until the infuser is completely covered. Now wait. This ESTABLISHED IN 2013

Mary Murkin, Owner Former homeschool mom and homeschool supporter!

170 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203

336-736-8714

Mary Murkin, Owner, Former homeschool mom/homeschool supporter

Open Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

170 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 • 336-736-8714

Notary services available during shop hours.

Open Mon-Sat 11am-4pm – Notary services available during shop hours 18 | Winter 2024

part is called steeping your tea. Steeping times vary by whether you are making an herbal tea (7 minutes), a black tea (5 minutes), or a green tea (3 minutes).

Steeping times can also vary with individual tastes. If you want your tea to have a more robust flavor, experiment with steeping it longer than the time suggested. Or if you want it milder, decrease the infusing time. This isn’t rocket science, it is trial and error of what pleases the individual tea drinker.

After the steeping is completed, remove the infuser and place it nearby. If you wish to add lemon, milk or sweetener, do so now. It is time to ENJOY your cup of tea. The last thing left to do is shake out and rinse your infuser. Leave it to dry and it will be ready for next time.

Now let’s explore grocery store tea bags versus loose leaf tea. I am not here to incite any arguments between tea drinkers.

Goodness knows that is not productive, nor a good use of time. I am purely going to share some information with you that will allow you to make INFORMED choices.

When loose tea leaves are picked, they go through a drying process that gets them ready for consumption.

After this oxidation process is complete, loose tea is stored in enormous breathable containers until it is ready to be packaged and distributed.

Loose tea leaves contain many nutrients, natural oils and delicious flavors. Great care is taken to carefully package the tea leaves to keep them as intact as possible—thus, not losing their high quality properties.

After these highly prized tea leaves are carefully packaged and ready for sale, the tea dust from the bottom of the barrel is then scooped up and put into tea bags and packaged for grocery store distribution. Tea in this powdered form has lost most of its essential oils, aroma and healthful properties.

If you are wishing to get the full benefits of tea, whether for taste reasons or health reasons, loose tea leaves would be a great path to explore. n Mary Murkin is the owner of Carriage House Tea, which is sold at Brightside Gallery, 170 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Tips for a Healthier Winter Consider Essential Oils Harness the power of aromatherapy with essential oils. Lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils are known for their potential health benefits. Many essential oil companies offer wellness blends that naturally and effectively provide immune support.

I

n the busyness of schoolwork, co-ops, extracurricular activities, and daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of taking care of our everyday health. Many times cold and flu symptoms hit us out of left field, and we’re put on the offensive instead of the defensive.

However, as the ancient proverb goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Below are some simple wellness strategies that can help your family stay well this winter.

Start with Nutrition Begin your journey to natural wellness with a focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.

Emphasize a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

A balanced diet provides the essential vitamins and minerals needed for overall health, including immune function.

Bridge the Gap with Supplements Even with the best intentions, sometimes it's hard to get all of our needed nutrients from our diet alone. A good multivitamin or whole-food supplement can help bridge the gap.

A great option to try is Wellness Formula® by Source Naturals®. This comprehensive formula combines a variety of herbs, antioxidants, and immunesupporting nutrients to bolster your body's defenses.

Ingredients like echinacea, garlic, elderberry, and vitamin C work together to promote a resilient immune system.

Add Herbal Remedies Many traditional herbs have been used for centuries to support well-being. Echinacea and elderberry are both known for their immune-boosting properties.

Peppermint or chamomile tea keep you hydrated and are rich in antioxidants. These natural remedies can complement your daily routine.

Manage Stress Deep-breathing and stretching not only promote mental well-being but can also positively impact physical health. Taking moments for prayer allows individuals to pause, reflect, and cultivate a sense of calm.

Engaging in these activities regularly helps manage stress, improve sleep, and support overall vitality.

Get Quality Sleep Prioritize quality sleep for optimal well-being. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, limit screen time before sleep, and ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to rest.

Exercise Outdoors When Possible Combine the benefits of physical activity with the healing power of nature.

Outdoor exercise, whether it's a hike, jog, or simple walk, not only improves cardiovascular health but also enhances mood and reduces stress.

Limit Environmental Toxins Reduce exposure to environmental toxins by choosing natural and organic products. From personal care items to cleaning supplies, opting for natural alternatives can contribute to a healthier living environment.

While none of us are immune to the occasional sore throat or sniffles, embracing these natural wellness strategies will put you well on your journey toward natural wellness and a healthier, more balanced life. n

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LEADERSHIP BUILDING

Creating a Positive Environment for Girls to Excel Last issue we learned about Carolina Dance and Gymnastics' programs for all ages. This issue, owner Allison Gaither gives us an in-depth look at their mentoring program for girls ages 12 and up.

By Allison Gaither

I

n today’s competitive college admissions landscape, students are constantly seeking ways to stand out from the crowd.

One strategy that has gained popularity in recent years is participating in a mentoring program. These programs offer a unique set of benefits that not only enhance a student’s skill, but also increase their chances of being accepted into their dream college.

One of the key advantages of a mentoring program is the opportunity for students to receive personalized guidance from

experienced mentors. These mentors provide one-onone instruction, helping students gain confidence and specialized skill sets.

This level of individualized attention sets students apart from their peers and demonstrates their commitment to their craft.

Carolina Dance and Gymnastics is in their 5th year of offering a mentoring program to our students. This is an invitation-only program that hand picks students that are 12 years or older who have been taking classes at CDG for at least 1 year. The program brings our dancers and gymnasts together for a weekly class that teaches

2022 Christmas Parade Mentors

20 | Winter 2024

them how to teach our younger students. They learn how to give proper corrections, spot students, and prepare for having a job. In addition to this class, they work side by side with our instructors assisting our younger students.

Participating in CDG’s mentoring program allows students to build a strong portfolio of work. As part of the program, mentors begin their first year with assisting a teacher in one class per week. Their second year in the program, mentors assist in one to two classes per week. By their third year, mentors are offered paid work positions within the studio. This gives high school students a chance to have a job in a safe positive environment that they have grown up in over the years.

Colleges look for applicants who have a well-rounded skill set, and having mentorship experience definitely helps make a favorable impression.

This demonstrates to colleges a strong work ethic, dedication, and an interest in personal growth and

2023 Mentor/Staff Boat Outing

character development. The discipline and commitment required in dance and gymnastics teaches students valuable life skills such as time management, perseverance, and teamwork.

These qualities not only benefit students during their college application process but also prepare them for success in their academic and professional endeavors.

Many colleges and universities are well aware of the unique benefits that mentoring programs offer to their applicants.

Admissions officers recognize the dedication, talent, and commitment required with mentoring programs and view participation as evidence of an applicant’s potential for success. All of

Stretches in Dance Class with Mentor & Staff

our graduating mentors have used our mentoring program on their college applications and we have written recommendation letters for them as well. We are happy to say that they have all gotten into their top pick of schools and programs. It is sad for us when they leave, but we are so excited to see them continue with their own journey and they keep in touch with us year after year.

Programs like this offer a unique advantage in the competitive college admissions process. By investing their time and energy in a mentoring program, students can set themselves apart from their peers and increase their

chances of being accepted into their dream college.

Our vision is to create a positive environment for girls to excel. Every time we watch these young ladies reaching for and achieving their goals, we know we have done just that!

Many of our mentors over the years have come from our homeschool communities. If you know of someone that might be interested in joining our dance and gymnastics program either just for fun or for the mentoring possibilities, please send them our way. We would love to work with them. We also have partnered with Uwharrie Charter Academy for internships. n

A boutique dance and gymnastics studio located in Asheboro and Siler City, Creating a POSITIVE environment for girls to excel by inspiring them to DREAM big, BELIEVE in themselves, and DISCOVER confidence so that they may INSPIRE others to do the same.

Congrats on a job well done and best wishes as Congrat you continue your journey!

Now registering

Creating a POSITIVE environment for girls to excel From all the staff and mentors at CDG by inspiring them to ~Allis ~Allison Gaither, Dixon, Raelynn Glotzbach, DREAMHannah big, Sada L SadaBELIEVE Lodge, Jessica Atwell,and Claire Smith, Annika Lowe, in themselves, KB La KB Lake, confidence Emilee Shackelford, DISCOVER so that they Kate may Gleason, Jessica Hulse www.CarolinaDanceAndGymnastics.com INSPIRE to do the same. www.CarolinaDanceAndGymnastics.com Hulse, Laciothers McNeill, Daisy Gaither, Lily Gaither, Celie Lowe 336-308-8002 336-308-8002 (Asheboro) Lowe, Anali Perez, Abigail (Asheboro) Smith, Carter Batten, and (Silerwishes City) as 2nd Year Mentor with 2nd Year Staff Spotting in Creative Movement Congrats on a job well919-742-7232 done and best

for 2023-2024

919-742-7232 (Siler City) on the Bar

Amelia Snodgrass

you continue your journey!

www.cnchomeschool.com | 21

From all the staff and mentors at CDG

CO-OP SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT ON...

Kid’s Rush Co-Op Each issue, we’ll be featuring a different homeschool co-op.

This time, Cindy Green, one of the co-directors of Kid’s Rush Co-Op in Asheboro tells us about their community.

T

he best way to summarize our co-op is through our mission statement:

“We are a group of Christian parents dedicated to taking back the education of our children by placing God at the center of their learning.

To that end, we teach a Biblical worldview that includes the idea of God as creator, the Genesis 1:17 family unit as God’s design, and every human life as precious.”

We started back in 2020 when everything shut down. We wanted a way for our children to have some sense of normalcy and began with one class at that time. Today we have about 40 families and 82 students registered! We offer classes for preschoolers all the way up to high school. All of our classes are taught by parents or local tutors, and our class selection depends on the interest of the students currently attending. Some of our most popular classes have included: Woodworking, Cosmetology, Theater, Career Exploration, Cooking

Around the World and Art. Most of our classes are elective type classes, but we have started offering some core classes such as science and reading.

Next semester we are working on adding a dissection class for some of our older students.

Along with our classes, we also have a newly established field trip committee that is working on coordinating monthly field trips and possibly a Bible Study for our moms. We also host a few events during the year. In the fall we host a Homeschoolers’ Craft Fair, which has been a popular event for students in the community to show off their skills and make some extra cash.

Every May we also host an End of the Year Homeschool Yard Sale. It’s

a great way for families to resell or find materials for the following year.

Along with the Yard Sale this year, we are also working on putting together a Randolph County Resource Fair.

Our hope is to pull together all the local co-ops, organizations, and businesses that serve as homeschool resources in the community in one place. This event will benefit new and veteran families alike. All these events are open to all homeschool families, you do not have to be a part of our co-op to join!

If anyone is interested in joining our co-op or in any of the events, you can find our Facebook page at Kid’s Rush Co-op, email at kidsrushcoop@ gmail.com, or give Cindy Green a call at 336-653-5888.

If you’re in charge of a co-op and would like us to feature your community, email heidi@cnchomeschool.com.

22 | Winter 2024

Advertise in the Next Issue of Homeschool Connections!

Homeschool Connections is distributed free of charge to homeschool families via homeschool co-ops, as well as public libraries and other venues in Randolph and surrounding counties.

The magazine is also available on our website in a digital version, giving you increased exposure and shelf life for your advertising.

Vol. 1 No. 1 Fall 2023

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BEYOND ABLE REASONA DOUBT...

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Premiere Issue FREE—Take one!

Develops Mock Trial s— Friendship Skills—And t A Lifetime That Will Las

Circulation: 1,500 printed copies + digital edition

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WHY ADVERTISE WITH US? n We direct-deliver to local homeschool co-ops... putting the magazine directly in the hands of your target market. n Advertising to this targeted consumer in Homeschool Connections costs LESS than direct-mailing to this same consumer yourself. n Our low ad-to-content ratio means no ad clutter! Your ad stands out! n Our business model allows advertisers to contribute articles for publication, expanding your exposure and positioning you as an expert in your industry. n Many of our advertisers are local businesses owned by current or former homeschoolers. We want to help those businesses market to the homeschool community so that the community in turn can support them. n We offer special rates for student entrepreneurs!

Look for our Spring 2024 Issue in April 2024!

Materials Due: February 28, 2024

If you would like to place an ad for your business, or if you have a suggestion for an article, email Heidi at heidi@cnchomeschool.com.

Visit our website at www.cnchomeschool.com for information and resources for homeschoolers in Randolph and surrounding counties.

If you know of a homeschool co-op, club, class, program, or event that you would like to see listed on our website, email info@cnchomeschool today! www.cnchomeschool.com | 23

FIELDS TRIPS

Field Trips for Animal Lovers From alpacas to zebras, the Central North Carolina region is full of opportunities to visit and learn about your favorite critters!

All A Flutter Butterfly Farm

Carolina Raptor Center

Duke Lemur Center

All-A-Flutter Farm provides tours where visitors learn the body parts of a butterfly, all about the life cycle, the Monarch migration, differences between moths and butterflies, and what the caterpillars eat.

The Carolina Raptor Center is dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey.

Educational programs focus on ornithology, environmental stewardship, and the rehabilitation efforts undertaken to protect these majestic birds.

Your children will have the opportunity to learn about alpacas live and in person at the Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm in Pittsboro. Your group will walk the farm with our guide and learn about the farm, the alpacas, and the other animals.

Duke University’s Lemur Center is the largest sanctuary for lemurs outside of Madagascar.

A visit here provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about these endangered primates, their habitats, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Carolina Tiger Rescue

Fairview Farm

Carolina Tiger Rescue is dedicated to the welfare of big cats. Educational tours allow students to observe and learn about various species of wild cats, emphasizing the importance of conservation and responsible stewardship of the environment.

Learn what farm life is all about at Fairvew Farm. Most tours include a hayride with cow, goat and horse feedings and petting; pig feeding; garden, chicken coop, and honey bee tours; and cattle waterer and grain bin demonstrations.

7850-B Clinard Farms Road High Point, NC 27265 www.all-a-flutter.com

Aloha Safari Park

159 Mini Lane Cameron, NC 28326 www.alohasafaripark.com

Aloha Safari Park is home to over 300 unique animal species. You can see a variety of different animals including tigers, zebras, monkeys, lemurs and more!

They offer a drive thru zoo as well as a walk around zoo.

Animal Park at the Conservators Center 676 E. Hughes Mill Road Burlington, NC 27217 animalparknc.org

The Animal Park at the Conservators Center is a nonprofit independent zoological park that houses more than 20 species of exotic animals. This includes about 20 big cats (lions, leopards, and tigers).

6000 Sample Road Huntersville, NC 28078 carolinaraptorcenter.org

Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm

7084 US Highway 64 W Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312 www.carolinasunshinealpacafarm.com

1940 Hanks Chapel Road Pittsboro, NC 27312 carolinatigerrescue.org

3705 Erwin Road Durham, NC 27705 lemur.duke.edu

3053 Fairview Farm Road Asheboro, NC 27205 www.afairviewfarm.com

Vacation at Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort in Asheboro, NC 336-964-0813 | www.AsheboroJellystone.com HOMESCHOOL SPECIAL: 15% off reservations for camping during the months of March, June, and September.

Certified homeschools qualify. Promo Code: HOMESCHOOL

YOGI BEAR and all related characters and elements © & ™ Hanna-Barbera. (s23)

CABINS • POOL • LASER TAG • JUMPING PILLOW • PLAYGROUND • FISHING POND • GOURMET COFFEE SHOP 24 | Winter 2024

Lazy 5 Ranch

Tim’s String Instruction

15100 Mooresville Road, Mooresville, NC 28115 thelazy5ranch.com

From animal habitats to reproduction, the Lazy 5 Ranch provides students a one-of-a-kind opportunity that provides hands-on, face-to-face education.

Liberty Acres Animal Haven & Equine Rescue 8790 Sylvan Road, Liberty, NC 27298 www.libertyacres.org

This 60-acre farm focuses on conservation of exotic and domestic animals and equine rescue. Connect and interact through observation and hands-on experiences, while learning about these fascinating animals and the important role they play in our lives.

NC Zoo

4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205 www.nczoo.org

The NC Zoo is one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world.

Students can observe animals in expansive, naturalistic exhibits, promoting a greater understanding of wildlife conservation.

Educational programs and guided tours enhance the experience, making it both fun and informative.

Tiger World

4400 Cook Road, Rockwell, NC 28138 tigerworld.us Tiger World is a different kind of Zoo. Their educational tours personally guide visitors throughout the preserve, learning about each animal and providing an individual hands-on experience. You will see the animals in a natural setting and have the opportunity to observe them running, playing, swimming, eating, sleeping, and interacting with their handlers.

Wing Haven Gardens & Bird Sanctuary

260 Ridgewood Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28209 winghavengardens.org

Groups will enjoy a day with nature as they tour Wing Haven Gardens & Bird Sanctuary and learn about the birds and other small animals that live there. They’ll hear a story, and learn about the garden’s role as a bird habitat.

Winterpast Farm

12936 Ghoston Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587 winterpast.org

At Winterpast Farm, visitors can meet and pet the animals, have a garden activity, learn about planting, and try other activities such as tree identification, arts and crafts, and fun team-building games.

Private Lessons at Randolph Studios and at Evan’s Music Center Asheboro Hybrid Academy and Homeschool Music Classes

Call Tim Moon at (336) 625-7937

Reserve a Studio f your special event.

• Bridal Showers • Baby Showers • Receptions • Birthday Parties • Meetings • And more!

andolph Studios 154 S. Fayetteville Street, Asheboro, NC 27203

randolphstudios.org

Do you have an idea for an article for Homeschool Connections?

Call, Text, or Email and let us know.

336-653-5974 | heidi@cnchomeschool.com

Zootastic Park

448 Pilch Road, Troutman, NC 28166 www.zootasticpark.com

At Zootastic Park you will see a large variety of animals, from kangaroos to large cats and primates! Their walk-around section contains exotic animals such as tigers, lions, giraffes, kangaroos, and monkeys. The drive-thru section is home to hoof animals such as Watusi, water buffalo, eland, blackbuck, zebra, and emus.

www.cnchomeschool.com | 25

HOMESCHOOL ADVICE

HOW TO OVERCOME THE MID-YEAR SLUMP

By Deanna Gravely

A

s you progress through the year, accomplishing tasks and meeting objectives, it is not uncommon to experience a lack of steam. Many of us find ourselves feeling fatigued and overwhelmed this time of the year. This feeling is commonly referred to as the Mid-Year Slump. It is a recognizable phase within the homeschool journey characterized by a temporary dip in motivation and energy levels. It is crucial to acknowledge that this phase is a normal aspect of the homeschooling process, and one that many of us encounter. As parents, we can proactively employ strategies to navigate through this phase successfully. By incorporating a few strategies, we can transform our waning energy into an opportunity for renewal and reinvigoration… and maybe even a well deserved coffee break! Here are some practical strategies to overcome the mid-year homeschool slump.

Reflect and Reassess Take a moment to ponder those ambitious goals you 26 | Winter 2024

set at the beginning of the school year. Are they still relevant, or have priorities shifted? Reassess your curriculum, methods, and overall approach. Embrace the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling. Tailor your goals to meet the ever evolving journey you have embarked upon. Make adjustments accordingly.

Remember, it is perfectly fine to hit the reset button, even if it is right smack in the middle of the year.

Set Short-Term Goals Take baby steps. Break down the remaining homeschool year into smaller, more manageable segments and set short-term goals.

Make certain to celebrate achievements along the way, no matter how small. For example, you can reward getting to the end of a chapter in your science textbook with a trip to the ice cream parlor or a movie. The small victories will serve as motivation and restore vitality to your homeschooling routines.

Explore New Resources Many times it is necessary to put on your detective hat

and investigate new learning resources or try a different approach. This marks an opportune time to explore a new curriculum, supplement, or learning tool. Perhaps you’ve been considering a unit study or have considered taking a virtual field trip to an unexpected location. Swap out the old pen and paper for some cool new tools.

Consider quality educational games or even an interactive online course aligned to your family’s interests. Regardless of the chosen approach, the introduction of new, fresh, and stimulating material can reignite curiosity and enthusiasm.

Embrace a Change of Pace Consider adjusting the structure of your daily schedule or routine. This is one of the inherent beauties of homeschooling. If you find mornings are slow, experiment with afternoon sessions or vice versa to align with your family’s optimal productivity window. Flex that homeschooling muscle!

Arrange your day and tailor your own environment around the unique schedules and needs of your family—it’s totally allowed. Strategically adapting the rhythm of your homeschool day will be like giving your day a remix for renewed energy and focus.

Incorporate Hands-On Projects Engage your child’s creativity by incorporating hands-on projects into the curriculum. Whether it involves conducting a science experiment, an art project, or immersing yourselves in a historical reenactment,

these experiences make learning more exciting and tangible. Or consider taking learning outdoors. Observe insects, plants, rocks, clouds, flowers, birds, or animals.

Nature provides an excellent canvas for discovery. The sky is literally the limit.

Incorporate games or puzzles and activities that disguise learning as play. Fostering creative activities in a child’s learning environment is a wonderful initiative that will contribute to an exciting journey and make lasting memories.

Seek Community Involvement Homeschoolers have an array of creative ways to stay connected. Consider joining a local homeschool co-op in your community where parents unite to tackle education challenges. This will provide assistance and support for both you and your child. Organize or participate in a homeschool meet-up. Whether it’s a park day, a book club, or a study session, meeting in person helps build relationships that can provide fresh perspectives and a sense of community. Swapping stories and resources with fellow homeschoolers can be just the answer and reassurance you need to know that you are not alone on your journey.

Adjust Your Environment Revamp your homeschool space to create a more inspiring atmosphere. This can be a corner of the room or a dedicated table where your child can explore, experiment, and create freely. Simple changes like rearranging

furniture, adding colorful decorations, or creating a dedicated learning nook can make a significant difference in motivation. Organize supplies. Display artwork and achievements. Display fun learning tools. Remember the key is to create a space that suits the needs and preferences of your child.

Mid-year is not a roadblock but, instead, a bend in

the journey. It can offer an opportunity for growth and revitalization. By incorporating various strategies, you will be able to progress through this phase with resilience and creativity. Remember that homeschooling is a flexible endeavor. Recognize that homeschooling takes different forms for different individuals.

There is no need to feel that you must adhere to a plan that has been meticulously

structured at the beginning of the year. Your homeschool journey and the adjustments you make will be unique to you. More importantly, amidst the messiness, don’t forget that taking care of yourself is not a luxury, but a priority.

Ensure you are keeping up with your physical wellbeing and providing yourself with adequate amounts of downtime. A refreshed and well-balanced approach to

homeschooling starts with care of yourself. Keep an open line of communication with your family. Recognize accomplishments no matter how small, make adjustments accordingly, and most of all, know that you are more than capable. So when the mid-year homeschool slump gets you down, hang in there, persevere and be steadfast.

You can do this! n

www.cnchomeschool.com | 27

JUST FOR FUN

Winter Fun Snowstorm in a Jar What you'll need: • Pint-sized Mason jar • Baby oil • White paint • Irridescent glitter • Blue food coloring (optional) • Alka Seltzer

2-Ingredient

Fake Snow

Down here in the south, winters can be pretty unpredictable. Some years, we may have a foot of snow and other years we may have only a flake or two.

But never fear, with just a couple of ingredients you may already have around your house, you can make your own fluffy white stuff!

What you'll need: • ½ cup white hair conditioner — any kind will do, just make sure it’s white so your fake snow looks like the real thing • 3 cups baking soda Directions: This can get a little messy, so you might want to do this outside or use a disposable plastic tablecloth for easy cleanup. I mixed everything in a large rectangular food storage container.

Start with the conditioner and slowly add in the baking soda, mixing it with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when you can pick it up and form snowballs. This snow packs very well and is great for making snowmen!

28 | Winter 2024

Directions: 1. Fill a mason jar about 2/3 full with baby oil.

2. Add a small squirt of white paint to about 1/4 cup of water, then stir it until it’s combined. You want the water to be a nice white colour so you can see it in the oil.

3. Pour the white water mixture into the jar. The mixture will fizz up towards the top a little bit when you do the experiment, so don’t fill your jar all the way to the top or you’ll end up with a mess.

4. Add some iridescent glitter to the jar and, if desired, blue food coloring.

5. Break up the Alka Seltzer tablet into small pieces, then drop two or three into the jar.

6. Watch what happens... the white water bubbles up through the baby oil making a little snowstorm in a jar!

Why it works: This experiment works for a few reasons. Because oil is less dense than water, the water will naturally sink to the bottom of the jar. When the Alka-Seltzer is dropped into the jar, its interaction with the water creates pressure in an upward direction, and the oil pushes it back down. This pressure back and forth is part of what creates the snowstorm. The other element is the interaction between water and sodium bicarbonate in the Alka-Seltzer, which generates carbon dioxide gas.

We may be in the middle of winter, but spring is quickly approaching, and with it...

PROM SEASON!

If you know of an area prom that we can list on our pages, email heidi@cnchomeschool.com.

The Funny Bone...

Feeling guilty about your kids watching too much TV? Just mute it and put the subtitles on. Boom!

Now they’re reading.

Kidoku A beginner version of Sudoku for kids! Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 4-by-2 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 8.

My kids just told a stranger they're homeschooled and are learning how to use colorful language.

Adjectives. They're learning about adjectives.

And in honor of Pi Day on March 14, here are a few math-related jokes...

Why was the equal sign so humble?

It knew it wasn't less than or greater than anyone else!

Why did the math book look sad?

Because it had too many problems.

Why did seven eat nine?

Because you're supposed to eat 3 squared meals a day!

Why did the student do multiplication problems on the floor?

The teacher told them not to use tables!

What's a math teacher's favorite type of tree?

Geometry!

Why was the obtuse angle always so frustrated?

Because it was never "right"!

Puzzle Solution on page 25

© 2024 krazydad.com

Binox The finished puzzle should be filled with Xs and Os. Horizontally and vertically, there should never be a continuous run of the same symbol longer than 2. There are an equal number of Xs and Os in each row and column. All rows are unique. All columns are unique, too.

The first ever

ROBOTICS CLUB is coming to Randolph County 4-H!

Limited spots are available for this club due to limited robotics supplies.

Youth must be 8 years or older.

The focus of this 4-H club is all things robotics, including building various robots, creating coding sequences, competing in robotics competitions, and more!

To learn more, reserve your youths spot, and receive meeting date/time details, contact Taylor Wright at 336.318.6013 OR taylor_wright@ncsu.edu Puzzle Solution on page 25

© 2024 krazydad.com www.cnchomeschool.com | 29

RESOURCES

More than Books...

Come Explore What the Randolph County Public Libraries Have to Offer! share food for years to come.

Anyone can check seeds out—no library card needed— grow them, harvest the produce, save seeds at the end of the season, and ‘return’ the saved seeds. Don’t have the know-how on how to start a vegetable garden? Don't worry! The libraries partner extensively with the Randolph County Cooperative Extension to provide science-based programs free of charge to assist you in getting the most out of your garden.

By Meghan Carter

L

ibraries have always been a place where one can browse and borrow books and will continue to be so. However, they have evolved beyond that and into the realm of lending the tools that can precipitate change in a person’s life. The Randolph County Public Libraries have expanded their services beyond books.

Tutor.com Tutor.com connects students with carefully vetted online educators and covers over 100 academic subjects.

Among its features are an interactive classroom and test preparation resources from The Princeton Review, including the SAT. Students can access the anonymous, safe and secure service at each library, or from 12pm-12am seven days a week from any Internet-connected device anywhere with a Randolph County Public Libraries card or student ID. Tutor.com also includes support for jobseekers. A per-

30 | Winter 2024

son from an HR educational background or in the field will professionally review your resume free of charge.

Tools for Learning The Randolph County Public Library system has realized that while it is great to provide books that encourage people to try new things, sometimes a tool is needed to fully appreciate the experience. That is why the library system lets members borrow yoga mats to improve their health in case someone is hesitant to enroll in a gym membership. Ukuleles are available to checkout along with sheet music to try a new artistic endeavor without a possibly expensive upfront cost. There are even kits that members can take home free of charge to explore topics in weather, money, telling time, and more!

Seed Libraries The Franklinville and Seagrove libraries have Seed Libraries, which is a seed lending and swapping program to cultivate community, giving folks the tools and knowledge they need to grow, save, and

Programming for All Ages In addition to all these wonderful items that the library loans to patrons, there is programming done at all seven locations within the county!

There are programs on all different kinds of topics for all ages. For the younger crowd: there have been dinosaur programs from the NC Museum of Natural Sciences with a fossil dig for school-aged kids; yoga classes to move the body; creating papel picado for Dia de los Muertos and Oaxacan-style folk painting to explore one’s artistic style, and so much more!

For teens, the library has offered a mixture of events appealing to the artistic and scholastic sides of their lives.

Across the county, libraries invite guest speakers to engage teens about historical events, such as honoring the events of 9/11. There are also programs where local guest artists come and share their professional experience. Cassandra Liuzzo once taught how to craft folded book art from old books and teen patron Ryn Guest taught crochet to teens to get

them hooked on fiber art.

The Children’s sections in libraries county-wide offer interactive learning from birth to elementary school-aged in a variety of ways. Randleman Public Library has S.T.E.A.M. in Motion activities for kids in 1st-5th grade in a relaxed environment. Liberty Library has crafts for kids to help them with their fine motor skills as well as socializing with other kids; and the Asheboro Library has story times from to pre-K to not only encourage early literacy, but also movement and play.

Guest Speakers The Friends of the Library, a non-profit bookstore that sells gently used books on the library’s behalf, funds the library’s activities and keynote speakers. They have brought in globally known people such as Elizabeth Smart, who was abducted at age 14 from her home and held captive for 9 months, and Ken Jennings, longest-running contestant and now host on Jeopardy!, as well as local celebrities such as Kyle Petty, son of the legendary NASCAR driver Richard Petty, and The Beekman Boys, former Randolph County residents who founded a farm and created skincare products in upstate New York.

Libraries are no longer static institutions, but rather dynamic ones, encouraging their users to take part in hands-on activities and participating with guest lecturers. Go visit your library and ask the staff what they do beyond lending books. n

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

This magazine would not be possible without the generous support of our advertisers.

Please visit the businesses on this page and throughout the magazine, and let them know you saw their ad in Homeschool Connections!

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Interested in Advertising in Homeschool Connections?

Call, Text, or Email Heidi for more information.

336-653-5974 | heidi@cnchomeschool.com

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