SPECIAL DOUBLE ISSUE
All N Loo ew k!!
The
Messenger Fall Issue 2012
At The Heartbeat of NY Homeschooling
featuring:
Gratitude A Tribute to
John Piper
Todd Wilson & Kathy Kuhl
Tips and games for your Thanksgiving Table
Special Feature: Meet the Regional Representatives! page 13
For everything there is a season
thanksgiving
www.hslda.org
Fa m i l y R e s o u r c e s A d v e r t i s e m e n t S e c t i o n
The
Fall Issue 2012
Messenger
At The Heartbeat of NY Homeschooling
In This Issue
inspiration For Your Homeschool Journey
fe at u r e s 2 Letter From the Editor
4 Capture Homeschooling Snapshots of Life
7 What’s Cookin’
Recipes for a Thanksgiving Feast
8 A Tribute to Gratitude By John Piper
10 Special Needs With Kathy Kuhl
12 LEAH Commencement Essay Contest
13 SPECIAL FEATURE:
Meet the Regional Representatives
28 Dad’s Corner With Todd Wilson
30 Kids Connection
By LEAH Kids - For LEAH Kids On Our Cover: The Hauck Family Orange County LEAH
Photo By Abby Hart Photo
www.blog.abbyhartphoto.com
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Letter From The Editor
Dear Readers,
The Messenger A Publication of New York State LEAH Editors: Jeremy & Seanna Shugars Creative Director: Melissa Cassulis leahmessenger@leah.org
New York State Loving Education At Home
Board of Directors
President
Rev. Rudy and Elizabeth Hugo
Vice President
Rich and Pam Stauter
Treasurer
David and Lucy Forrest
Secretary
Bob and Lorrie Gorman
Regional Representatives
Regions 3 & 4: Chuck and Diane Phippen Region 5: David and Kathy Fedele Region 6: Rick and Denise Madl Region 7: Glenn & Patti Owens Region 8: Steve & Catie Perschke Region 10: Jason & Michele White
www.leah.org The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers within The Messenger are those of the authors, not necessarily those of LEAH. Please see our Statement of Faith in LEAH’s Regulatory and Informational Manual for Home Education in New York State or visit our website at www.leah.org/about-leah/statement-of-faith. Please note that nothing in this publication should be construed as legal advice. LEAH exists to educate, inform, and serve New York State home educators. For reprint information please contact the Editors of The Messenger, unless another copyright contact is listed after the article.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”
Thanksgiving continues to be a favorite time of year for our family, full of vibrant colors, cool nights, and the smell of apples filling our home. It has also become a time of reflection for the things we sometimes take for granted, the things we no longer remember to give thanks for. In God’s infinite wisdom He has offered us much guidance through His word. Most recently we were inspired by Ecclesiastes 5:18-20. In these verses King Solomon offers great wisdom for what he has seen to be good in this world. It is good for people to eat. It is good for people to drink. It is good to work and labor in the sun. In whatever we do or whoever we are, it is good to enjoy ALL aspects of our lives in the time God has granted us here on Earth. We may receive wealth, good health, or professional success but the idea of truly enjoying your lot in life, the place God has ordained you to be, that is a true gift worthy of being thankful for. When we view life this way there is no longer a need to dwell on the past, what could have been, or the things you never accomplished. Once you begin to understand and embrace God’s plan for your future you will begin building a true foundation for lasting joy and a heart full of thankfulness. Before going any further in this issue we pray you will take a moment now to simply reflect and be glad for what you already have, truly embracing all God has blessed you with in life. Trust Him, believe in Him, and give thanks to Him for every breath taken doing what you were made to do. This is the heart of Thanksgiving. In your hands you hold an all new LEAH Messenger! We are thrilled about the new format which we hope and pray will become a blessing to you. The purpose of The Messenger is to bring you a useful publication, encouraging and strengthening you in your homeschool journey. Your ideas and suggestions for new features or article topics will help us fill the pages and will provide us with a better idea of what you, our readers, would like to see. May God bless you richly as you read through these pages! Serving Him with a joy-filled heart, Jeremy & Seanna Shugars, Editors Melissa Cassulis, Creative Director
We’d love to hear from you! Let us know what you think of the new format, and what blessed you most. email: feedback@leah.org Your letter could be published in the next issue!
Ephesians 2:10
2 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
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T
Dear LEAH,
This time of year, in preparation for another school year, I find myself reviewing and analyzing the successes and failures of the past year. I find myself looking back on years past; thinking about how our homeschooling and family have changed and have come to the places that they are today. I look at which groups and activities to add, keep, or subtract. Naturally, the question of membership in LEAH becomes a question; of worth and value. After letting our membership slide for a few years, we looked at our situation and realized that we not only missed, but also, needed to rejoin a LEAH group. The small “fee” would be worth it for sure. Shortly before we began to homeschool fourteen years ago, we met a couple who encouraged us as we sought God’s will on our children’s education. They told us about a LEAH support group that was one-of-a-kind. We joined and soon realized what an invaluable treasure this group became to us. Here we would find fellowship in Christ, like-minded home educators and life-long friends. Our children would be around others that encouraged them in their studies, didn’t stare cross-eyed at them, have classes that would enrich the academics they received at home, and have an outlet for some of their Godgiven talents. After several years of membership, the opportunity arose for us to “give back” as leaders. This also proved to be a great experience as we learned to work, pray, and lead with our mentors and others. Throughout this time, we were able to connect with other homeschoolers, who though they may have had different convictions on other issues, shared a great burden for Christ-centered education for our children. In the past, some have criticized LEAH for “taking place of the local church.” We have not seen this to be the case. It has been a wonderful supplement; giving us a place to fellowship with the body of Christ as a whole, not having to excuse some of the choices we have made. LEAH has also been a blessing in another sense: keeping us informed of legislative issues. I can’t even count the number of times that I have been on the brink of wanting to quit, when an article in “The Messenger” has encouraged me or reminded me of one of the reasons I was homeschooling. Lastly, I will never forget walking into my first NYS LEAH Convention (then in Syracuse), and seeing literally thousands of others who were doing the same as us. I remember praising God for this and the people of LEAH, who worked so hard to make it possible. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of LEAH again this year- to reconnect, to contribute, and enjoy my Christian brothers and sisters, both locally and statewide. Thanks to all who make it possible, and to all who are considering membership-JOIN! Written by a Returning LEAH member from the Rochester/Finger Lakes Region.
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The TheMessenger Messenger | |FALL FALL2012 2012| | 3
The Gang from Kirkville
Michael , Farmington
capture homeschooling snapshots of life
Caption Contest!
Win A Dunkin Donuts Gift Card!
Open To All Ages !
… agic years m e r a e s e “Th ays… re magic d .” fo e r e h t d an oments e magic m onymous r fo e r e h t and -An
Seth, Quentin, Cavan -Oneida
Emily, Caleb, Autumn - Farmington
Elisabeth, Vernon
Send us your pictures! The little moments are what life is all about. Send us your favorite snapshots of life in your homeschool. Be sure to include your name and hometown. feedback@leah.org
4 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
{Your Caption Here} Give us your funniest caption! Winning entry will appear in the February issue. Deadline: January 5th. feedback@leah.org
Joseph, Benjamin, Josiah, Rebekah - Elmira
The Gorman
s - Durhamvi
lle
“I think Dad picked this field trip.”
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Season of Thanksgiving
Contentment
In the Midst of Stolen Pineapples, Manna, and Life as a Homeschooling Mom By Konnie Hall
“T
he Pineapple Story” brings a chuckle every time we watch it as the missionary works so hard to raise his pineapples only to have the natives swipe them over and over. Even after the missionary has repeatedly asked them not to take his pineapples, they continue to do so until finally, in frustration, he says to them, “I would be such a good missionary if it weren’t for you people!” On my unhappiest days, when the children were young, I had a similar mindset. I would think to myself variations of the same complaint that could be summed up as, “I would be such a good homeschooling mom if it weren’t for you kids.” We only like to make it about us when it works to our benefit and not to our shame, don’t we? Surely it’s our unengaged husband or lack of money or a child’s behavior or even the difficult task of homeschooling which keeps us from our joy and contentment in Christ certainly not ourselves! I was reminded of this when reading Numbers a few days ago as part of my yearly sojourn through the Bible. In chapter eleven we read of the faithful Jewish mamas serving manna to their families yet again and we can imagine the murmurings as they discuss the boring repetition their suffering taste buds had to endure. Good grief! How mundane can it get? Manna, manna, manna! Manna in the morning and manna in the evening. Perhaps they said, “We would be such good followers of you, LORD, if it weren’t for all this manna!” The word that really caught my attention was in verse 10 when it says, “Moses heard all the families standing in front of their tents weeping, and the LORD became extremely angry.“ Wide-eyed children watched as Mom and Dad chose to handle this situation by openly complaining to God, so the kids followed suit by joining in.
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It sends shivers up and down my spine to think of all that my children have absorbed from my moments of discontent when faced with the repetitive ministry of laundry, housework, grading compositions, and playing referee to pointless arguments. There was a time when I wondered if I would ever get it through my head that the grass is not greener somewhere else. Would I ever cease my striving and know and experience that He is God enough to bring contentment and joy into ANY situation? Would I ever stop looking for Heaven on earth? Would God make me a contented homeschooling mom who comes to the doorway of my “tent” to daily give God praise for clothes to wear (and wash), houses to live in (and clean), and children to teach (and discipline)? Hannah Whitall Smith said, “He does not need to transplant us into a different field…. He transforms the very things that were before our greatest hindrances, into the chiefest and most blessed means of our growth. No difficulties in your case can baffle Him…. Put yourself absolutely into His hands, and let Him have His own way with you.” May God continue to use my moments of discontent as a roadmap to open my eyes to the blessings and promises I have in the Ancient of Days who loves me enough to teach me to find my satisfaction in Him and Him alone. For the wide-eyed children’s sake who may consciously or unconsciously follow my example…and for God’s glory.
Konnie, and her husband, Kirk, are currently in their sixteenth year of
homeschooling. They are homeschooling three teenagers, who fill their home with love, laughter, and lots of life lessons. Their oldest daughter is on the mission field in Southeast Asia. The family divides its time between Flat Rock and Saluda, North Carolina, where they own Orchard Lake Campground and operate it during the summer months.
The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 5
Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men; but be careful that you do not take the day, and leave out the gratitude. ~E.P. Powell
From the kitchen of
Melissa C. -Hubbardsville, NY
This side dish has long been a Thanksgiving institution in our family. We look forward to this even more than the turkey!
Sweet Potato Casserole
4 large sweet potatoes 4 large baking apples, peeled, sliced 3/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup flour is Rate th 1/2 cup oatmeal n o e recip 1/2 cup butter ! Facebook 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ginger
Boil whole sweet potatoes until cooked but still firm. Allow to cool slightly, then peel and cut into 1/2 inch slices. Grease 13x9 inch baking pan; place half of sweet potato slices over bottom of pan, overlapping slightly. Spread apple slices over top, then top with remaining sweet potato slices. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon and ginger; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over top of sweet potatoes. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until crumbs are golden brown. Enjoy!
What’s Cookin’ see what’s cooking in the kitchens of LEAH Families Across the state
Super Easy Appetizer Idea... Slice a ring of Kielbasa into 1/4 inch slices; brown in a skillet until cooked through and crispy on both sides. Drain, then add several spoonfulls of your favorite jam. (Our favorites are plum, peach, and apricot!) Cook until heated through. Serve with toothpicks. Enjoy!
What do you do with those Thanksgiving leftovers? “I use the leftover turkey and gravy for homemade potpie! And I use the carcass for turkey noodle soup : )” Sherry S. via Facebook
Next Issue: We’re cooking comfort food! Email your tried and true winter recipes to feedback@leah.org!
Serve up something new and help families in need!
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The Messenger | FALL 2012 |
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Season of Thanksgiving
A Tribute To
Gratitude By John Piper
W
hen I wrote Future Grace my aim was to show that, in the Bible, motivation for obedience to Jesus is never said explicitly to be gratitude. This is astonishing since many (most?) Christians list gratitude as the main motive for our obedience to Jesus. My argument is that in the Bible “faith in future grace” not “gratitude for past grace” is the primary focus in motivating acts of love. (“You had compassion on those in prison...since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one” Hebrews 10:34). We read of “faith working through love” not “gratitude working through love.” And “work of faith” not “work of gratitude.” And “obedience of faith” not “obedience of gratitude.” Nevertheless, gratitude is a beautiful, powerful, and necessary affection of the born again heart. It does, in fact, have a huge role in turning us into people who love each other. I paid this tribute to gratitude on pages 48-49 of Future Grace. I record it here in honor of Thanksgiving Day, and the God of all grace. Let everything that has breath thank the Lord!
A Tribute to Gratitude Gratitude is such a great and wonderful thing in Scripture that I feel constrained to end this chapter
8
with a tribute. There are ways that gratitude helps bring about obedience to Christ. One way is that the spirit of gratitude is simply incompatible with some sinful attitudes. I think this is why Paul wrote, “There must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks” (Ephesians 5:4). Gratitude is a humble, happy response to the good will of someone who has done or tried to do you a favor. This humility and happiness cannot coexist in the heart with coarse, ugly, mean attitudes. Therefore the cultivation of a thankful heart leaves little room for such sins. There is a sense in which gratitude and faith are interwoven joys that strengthen each other. As gratitude joyfully revels in the benefits of past grace, so faith joyfully relies on the benefits of future grace. Therefore when gratitude for God’s past grace is strong, the message is sent that God is supremely trustworthy in the future because of what he has done in the past. In this way faith is strengthened by a lively gratitude for God’s past trustworthiness. On the other hand, when faith in God’s future grace is strong, the message is sent that this kind of God makes no mistakes, so that everything he has done in the past is part of a good plan and can be
Celebrate
Thanksgiving Take a Virtual Trip to Plimoth Plantation! www.scholastic.com/scholastic_thanksgiving/
Did you know? The largest Pumpkin Pie ever made weighed 2,020 lbs! That’s a lot of pie... even for a homeschool family! Table Talk
remembered with gratitude. In this way gratitude is strengthened by a lively faith in God’s future grace.
Have some fun at your Thanksgiving table and Talk Like A Pilgrim! www.plimoth.org/learn/just-kids/talk-pilgrim
Surely it is only the heart of faith in future grace that can follow the apostle Paul in “giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20). Only if we trust God to turn past calamities into future comfort can we look back with gratitude for all things.
Did You know? The heaviest turkey ever raised was 86 pounds, about the size of a large dog.
It seems to me that this interwovenness of future-oriented faith and past-oriented gratitude is what prevents gratitude from degenerating into the debtor’s ethic. Gratitude for bygone grace is constantly saying to faith, “Be strong, and do not doubt that God will be as gracious in the future as I know he’s been in the past.”
Approximately 46 million turkeys are eaten in the United States each Thanksgiving.
Turkey Time!
Visit www.spoonfull.com/thanksgiving for more Thanksgiving crafts, recipes, and games!
And faith in future grace is constantly saying to gratitude, “There is more grace to come, and all our obedience is to be done in reliance on that future grace. Relax and exult in your appointed feast. I will take responsibility for tomorrow’s obedience.” Or, as Jesus would say, “O ye of little faith. Do not be anxious” (Matthew 6:30-31, KJV) ©2008 John Piper. Used by permission. www.discoveringgod.org
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Special Needs Hannah, age 7 Hamilton, NY
Perfection By Kathy Kuhl
Is a sense of entitlement or perfectionism spoiling our homeschool?
W
e all want the best for our children. Our search for those good things can teach us about our attitudes. Is a sense of entitlement or perfectionism spoiling our homeschool? Unnoticed by us, they can frustrate us and our families. Though homeschoolers once only had limited access to published curriculum, now we can purchase from among hundreds of curricula, thousands of websites, millions of books. It can be hard to figure out which to choose. We can become grumpy when we don’t see what we want. How easily a sense of entitlement that can start creeping into our thinking: “I don’t ask much. I only want....” Those of us with children with challenges feel the stakes are even higher. As we search for the best therapy, treatment, or technique, are we becoming hard to live with? The perfect solutions we seek may not exist. I may find a pretty good math or reading curriculum, or a helpful program for my child’s areas of struggle, but problems remain. I can keep looking, but I must not make myself—or my family—miserable because I have not found a perfect solution yet. Sometimes good enough is good enough. The search
Messenger | FALL 2012 | The Messenger | FALL 2012 10| The
for an ideal approach can distract you from other needs. It is an insidious problem, because it can feel like a virtuous endeavor, a hunt to save your child. But ask yourself if you are using your time and energy wisely. Do you need to make do with pretty good materials? Instead of more searching, would it be better to spend that time taking your children on a walk, or reading them a story? Perhaps could develop your own supplementary material in less time than this all-consuming search. You might plant the seeds of your own book. High standards are good. But the urge for perfection can sour into perfectionism. How do you know if you are turning into a perfectionist? Do you: • Set impossible standards? • Become overly upset with mistakes? • Doubt your own worth if you don’t complete tasks perfectly? • Find yourself unable to adjust your goals in a crisis or in light of other needs? Perfectionism is an insistence on finding or making everything perfect—at the expense of your peace of mind or your relationships. Sometimes, just noticing this trend
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can help you fight that way of thinking. But at its most severe, it can be part of an anxiety disorder or an obsessivecompulsive disorder. If you have trouble combating these kinds of feelings, seek a wise counselor. Another problem with perfectionism is that it can rub off on our children. They might have inherited a perfectionist temperament. What do my children learn if they see me overreacting when I can’t find my car keys? We can count on our children to imitate just what we don’t want them to! Instead of torturing ourselves and those around us when we can’t find what we want, or when we can’t do as we want, we need to demonstrate to our children how to cope with disappointments and mistakes. Some children learn these skills by watching and growing. But others need to be carefully and repeatedly taught how to think about situations and how to deal with feelings. Some have difficulty putting feelings into words. So we show them by talking about feelings and coping. For example, I might say one of the following: “I’m feeling angry with myself for losing my keys again. I am worried that we won’t get you to practice on time. I am going to take a couple deep breaths and pray.” “I had my keys when I got home last night. I’ll retrace my steps.” “Let me brainstorm about what I can do if I cannot find the keys. Maybe Sam’s mom could give you a ride.” Sometimes we don’t just make our families miserable because we’re unhappy that we’re not perfectly successful. We are guaranteed trouble if we expect perfect attitudes from our family. Face it: your child may never thank you for that excellent math lesson you prepared so carefully. Be realistic. Studying is your child’s job, and few of us thank the boss for the job. So if your children are unexcited about homeschool, but civil about doing their schoolwork, treat them as you would like to be treated. Give them some breathing room. The book of Ecclesiastes says: “Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others.”(Ecclesiastes 7:21-22.) Mutual respect, not mutual nitpicking, will help your homeschool flourish. Enjoy your children.
Adapted from “Never Good Enough,” Chapter 4 of “Staying Sane as You Homeschool: Balancing Your Priorities” by Kathy Kuhl, ©2011. All rights reserved. Visit or write Kathy at LearnDifferently.com
PICC LEAH
Homeschooling With
Special Needs Mary Fratianni NYS LEAH Special Needs Coordinator PICC LEAH Providing Support to Special Needs Families by email, phone, and Skype!
Need Support Homeschooling A Struggling Learner or Child with Special Needs? PICC LEAH for the Best Education You Can Give Your Child!
Parents Instructing Challenged Children (PICC) LEAH is a special needs support chapter of NYS LEAH With over 150 member families statewide,
PICC LEAH provides special needs homeschool support and resources to NYS LEAH members through its extensive lending library, The Listening Program® and Learning Ears Program®, special needs homeschool consulting, academic enrichment programs, parent to parent support via the PICC LEAH Confidential Yahoo Chat Group, bi-monthly newsletter, confidential membership directory by NYS LEAH Region and County, and telephone and email support. For more information and how join please visit www.leah.org/special-needs/contact-picc Follow us on Facebook - PICC LEAH
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The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 11
Across New York November
Corning, NY Corning Museum of Glass Free Admission 19 & under Make a Glass Pumpkin! A seasonal favorite, this experience allows you to blow your own glass pumpkin! Open to all ages. $$ www.cmog.org/visit/make-your-own-glass/pumpkin Cooperstown, NY Farmers’ Museum Thanksgiving Weekend Experience Thanksgiving traditions of the past during a special two-day event. Discover how rural New Yorkers typically celebrated Thanksgiving in the 1840s. www.farmersmuseum.org/programs/seasonal_events Give us the inside scoop! Send us a tip on the best field trip in your area! feedback@leah.org
December
Rochester, NY Stokoe Farms Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees, Wagon Rides, Live Nativity, Bonfire, Straw Fort and Hay Chute Slide, Gift Shop and Lots more! Open Friday- Sunday November 23-Dec 16 Free Admission! www.stokoefarms.com/Trees.php Albany December 2, 2012 Tree Lighting and Fireworks Celebration A spectacular fireworks display will be part of the fun as the official Christmas tree is lit. www.empirestateplaza.org Syracuse Sleigh Rides Horse-drawn sleigh rides through Highland Forest in Fabius, NY available weekends from midDecember to mid-March. Weather permitting. Call (315) 683-5550 www.onondagacountyparks.com/activities/ winter-activities/
New York State
LEAH
Take a closer look at the leaders passionately serving homeschooling families in your area...
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LEAH Special Feature:
Meet The Regional Representatives 13
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 3 &4
Hudson Valley/Albany/ Adirondack Hometown: Hoosick Falls, NY
Serving: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, St. Lawrence, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, & Washington Counties Interim Reps to Region 3: Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Schoharie, Sullivan, & Ulster Counties Children: 12; Sarah, Sean, Scott, Seth, Shayla, Sharon, Stephen, Simon, Samuel, Synthia, Silas, and Savannah Homeschooling For: 21 years
Chuck & Diane Phippen
What is your favorite “after-school” activity? We have a sailboat on Lake Champlain and love to go on that all together.
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What is your favorite homeschool memory? One day three moms and I took our children to an art museum in Hartford, CT. We had an appointment and they were supposed to be expecting us. When we arrived and the woman at the front desk saw all of us, she said to one of the moms, “I’m sorry ma’am, but you don’t have enough chaperones for the number of children you have!” All of us moms looked at each other and said, “Don’t we know it-but it is just us, and our own children!” The children were all wonderful that day and we had a terrific time at the museum. On our way out the door the woman at the front desk commented that we had been one of the best groups she had ever seen.
“I wish i knew when i started that i can follow the delights and bents of my children more and worry about my plans less.” - Diane Phippen contact us at: Region3@leah.org 14 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
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Albany/Adirondack Hometown: Hudson Falls, NY Serving: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, St. Lawrence, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren & Washington Counties Assistants to the Region 4 Reps Children: 3; Sarah ,17; Meghan ,15; Ryan,13 LEAH Members For: 12 years What do you find to be the biggest challenge for homeschoolers in your region? I would say connecting with other homeschoolers in some cases. Our region is very large and has many rural areas so some are removed from other groups.
Mike & Carolyn
Bailey
What is your favorite homeschool memory? When the kids were younger, we would spend a day picnicking, exploring a park, or reading together on the couch. Academics were put on hold to enjoy a perfect weather day! Also, Mike loved to do dissections with everyone gathered around the counter participating with enthusiasm. He also led a lesson in suturing when a favorite teddy bear needed some TLC.
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What is it that you know now about homeschooling your kids that you wish you knew when you started? Don’t push them so hard when they are young. Not all kids are perfect readers/writers at age 5! Some kids take longer to catch on to things and that is OK! Do what God has shown you works for your family and stick with that! HE knows what is best.
“R
emember that academics are only a part of homeschooling. Character development, spiritual maturity, life skills, and community service all contribute to a well rounded child.” -Mike & Carolyn contact us at: Region4@leah.org
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The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 15
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 4
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 5
Syracuse/ Central NY Hometown: Syracuse, NY Serving: Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, Madison, Onondaga & Oswego Counties Children: 3, Gloria, Jenna & Julian LEAH Members For: 19 years Favorite “After-School” Activities: It went from listening to their various musical instruments to soccer, boxing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
David & Kathy Fedele
What was your favorite field trip? The local mining company, they blew up a rock wall for us.
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Why did you start homeschooling? That was God’s plan for us. We chose to follow it and stay the course.
What is your favorite homeschool memory? Too many to list, but one stands out from our early days; our pastor’s wife’s name is Esther and we had a dear friend named Ruth. We had just finished reading the book of Esther and had also read the book of Ruth before that. As soon as I finished reading Esther my daughter said, “OK, now read me Pastor.”
“it goes too fast.
time is precious with each child.”
- David & Kathy contact us at: Region5@leah.org 16 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
www.leah.org
Binghamton/ Southern Tier Hometown: Elmira, NY Serving: Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Ostego, Schuyler, Tioga & Tompkins Counties Children: 7 with us, 1 in heaven
Danielle, 23; Hannah, 21; Joshua, 17; Caleb, 14; Joseph, 8; Rebekah, 5 and Benjamin, 2 (and one grandson Josiah age 1). LEAH Members Since: 1993 Favorite “After -School”Activities: Rick: Taking Walks Denise: Baking Cookies What They are Reading: Rick: Biographies and historical fiction Denise: Anything by Karen Kingsbury or Francine Rivers
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Rick & Denise Madl
What is your favorite homeschool memory? Field trips with our local chapter to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Boston.
What is it that you know now about homeschooling your kids that you wish you knew when you started?
You don’t have to do every single chapter and every single lesson in the book to successfully cover the course!
“Don’t compare yourself to others.
Your family is unique, and God has called each of us to homeschool in the way that works best for our family.” - Rick & Denise
contact us at: Region6@leah.org
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The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 17
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 6
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 7
Rochester/Finger Lakes Hometown: Rochester, NY Serving: Cayuga, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne & Yates Counties Children: 3 ; Paul, Stephen, and Lydia LEAH Members For: 19 years How long have you been homeschooling? We homeschooled 18 years, I have retired as all my children have graduated.
Glenn & Patti Owens
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What do you find to be the biggest challenge for homeschoolers in your region? Trying to “do it all” and over doing things. Also, feeling like they have to “keep up with the Joneses.” What is your favorite “after-school” activity? Now it’s Ladies Bible Study
What is Your favorite homeschool memory? One lesson on cellular biology, the kids were ready to rebel because they were so bored. The Lord gave me a very “Crazy” way to explain it all to them. I still laugh to myself, when I think of the looks on their faces when I acted so goofy.
“Don’t let your curriculum be a ‘ball
and chain’. it is a tool, not something to rule or control you.” - Patti Owens contact us at: Region7@leah.org 18 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
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Buffalo/Western Hometown: Pavilion, NY
Serving: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans & Wyoming Counties Children: 7 children: Brian, Cate, Hannah, Nathaniel, Jason, Gideon, and Joshua LEAH Members For: 16 Years Favorite “After -School”Activities: We like to read out loud to our family, listen to radio theater, or play games.
What was your best vacation ever? We love to travel. We have been on many awesome vacations across the country. The most recent was to see Brian graduate from Basic training in the Army. We ‘camped’ at a campground on Fort Benning in Alabama. Catie’s parents were able to go with us. It was an incredible time of family. We just wish that Steve’s dad could have been with us.
Steve & Catie Perschke
8
What is your favorite memory of being a Regional Representative? In September of 2011, we had a region-wide picnic, and later in the day, a chapter leaders’ dinner at Letchworth State Park. Rudy Hugo and the Gormans blessed us with their vision, wisdom, and passion for homeschool families. We also had a surprise visit by a couple involved in the Christian home education movement in Spain.
“Seek God earlier and more. and wait patiently on His answer, rather than listening to what we think we know.” - Catie Perschke
contact us at: Region8@leah.org
www.leah.org
The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 19
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 8
Special Feature: Meet The Regional Representatives
Region 10
NYC / Long Island/ Westchester Hometown: Shirley, NY Serving: Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Orange, Rockland & Putnam Counties Children: Autumn, 13; Alexa, 9 Region 10: There are 16 chapters Favorite Field Trip: Our family trip to Colonial Williamsburg What They are Reading: Our favorite book is one that we read together as a family a few years back called “Spies on the Devils Belt”, which is about a Revolutionary War spy ring on Long Island.
Jason & Michele White
Also Serving As: Conference Coordinators for the Downstate Homeschool Conferences
10
What have you enjoyed most in your first year as a Regional Representative? Our favorite opportunity as Regional Reps is meeting all of the wonderful people in our region. We enjoy visiting different groups when we get the chance to do so.
“The best advice that i have ever been given is not to compare my home, my family, or my homeschool to anyone else’s. It seems so simple, but we all need to be reminded of that at times.”
-Michele White
contact us at: Region10@leah.org
20 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
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2013 NYS LEAH Downstate Convention Save t he March 16, 2013 Dates ! Featuring Keynote Speakers:
Email: LIConvention@LEAH.org LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
First Baptist Church of Patchogue
482 North Ocean Ave. Patchogue, NY 11772
Region 10 LEAH
Season of Thanksgiving
Who’s Really
Building the House? Whatever it is, deep down there is something you are passionate about that you want to do to “build a house” for God.
K
ing David got a great idea one day. He looked around at his luxurious palace and compared it to the tent that the Ark of the Covenant reposed in. The contrast jarred him. He told Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a palace of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.” (1 Samuel 7:2). He was bugged. He wanted to honor God and create a permanent tribute to the Lord Almighty. He wanted to build God a house. Maybe you feel like David. You want to honor God too. God has blessed you and you want to build a permanent tribute to the Lord through your own service. You want to build God a house. What does this “house” look like? Maybe it means you want to raise a large family of God-honoring children who will be mighty for the kingdom. Maybe, as a homeschooler, you want to start some sort of ministry to strengthen other homeschoolers as they disciple their children. Perhaps there’s a fantastic Christian organization your family wants to work with and thereby reach many people for Christ. Or maybe you simply want to be so much like Christ that your life and testimony speaks volumes for Him. Whatever it is, deep down there is something you are passionate about that you want to do to “build a house” for God. God commended David for his desire. He told David, “Because it was in your heart to build a temple for my Name, you did well to have this in your heart.” (2 Chronicles 6:8).
By Raquelle Sheen Likewise, God is pleased when we want to honor Him and spend ourselves in His service. We do well to have these kinds of desires in our heart. But then what happened? God chose not to have David build the temple. He told David, “You have shed much blood and have fought many wars. You are not to build a house for my Name, because you have shed much blood on the earth in my sight.” (1 Chronicles 22:8) Sometimes God chooses not to let our desires on His behalf be carried out either. Maybe God has chosen not to let you have as many children as you’d like. Instead of the small army of godly offspring that you wanted to raise for Him you have just one or two. Maybe the homeschool ministry you tried to start has petered out for lack of interest from others. Perhaps health problems or unexpected responsibilities prevent you from working with that fabulous Christian organization you wanted to be a part of. Or maybe you find that, despite your best efforts to be a good testimony, your sinful self gets in the way over and over and you always seem to muff the job. Point is, God is God. While He is pleased with us when we want to do great things for Him, sometimes He has other plans for us. Sometimes He prevents us from carrying out our desires the way we’d like. However, this does not mean God won’t use us. Just because God doesn’t always choose to have us carry out our Plan A does not mean He won’t use us just as effectively for
Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain that build it...Psalm 127:1 22 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
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But instead, here’s what’s going to happen: I’M going to Plan B. David didn’t build the temple. But he did probuild YOU a house.” We read, “The LORD declares to vide a helping hand to Solomon. We learn in 1 Chronyou that the LORD himself will establish a house for icles 22:5 that, David said, “My son Solomon is young you: When your days are over and you rest with your and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, LORD should be of great magnificence and fame and who will come from your own body, and I will establish splendor in the sight of all the nations. Therefore I will his kingdom.” (2 Samuel 7:11-12) make preparations for it.” So David Haven’t you seen this in your life made extensive preparations before and over? I know I have. We his death. “Just because God doesn’t over come to God with our Big Ideas to Have you stopped to think about always choose to have us serve Him. Sometimes God says no to the ways you can serve right now, in those Big Ideas. Then He turns around carry out our Plan A spite of being thwarted in your initial and blesses the socks off of us in ways desires? Maybe the fact that you have does not mean He won’t we can’t even imagine. just a few children instead of a dozen I remember when we first moved means that you can open your home use us just as effectively for to a new state feeling like God had more often to others. Maybe the Plan B.” closed all the doors for me to serve time you would have spent on that Him with music. I was leaving behind homeschool ministry you wanted to a group of piano students and the position of church pistart is being spent caring for an aging relative instead. anist/organist. God had closed a door and I moped for Maybe the fact that you’ve stumbled so often as you some months, as nothing seemed to emerge that I could strive to be a good testimony gives you a perspective do. Ten years later I look at what God has done. I’ve lost that allows you to greatly encourage others who face count of how many students I’ve taught here, I’m now a the same problems. I could go on, but you get the harpist also, I’ve recorded five CDs, I play routinely for point. lots of groups of people—I’ve done all kinds of things I One other thing stands out in this whole story never possibly imagined at the time that God initially with David. It’s God’s tender love. God basically told closed the door. God “built a house” for me in a way I David, “You wanted to build me a house. That’s great. hadn’t even dreamed of. Be encouraged, friends. Maybe you can’t build that Are you a prayer warrior with a heart for leadership? temple you wanted to build. But that’s okay. If you love God and seek to serve Him, He will use you anyway— and He will “build you a house.” LEAH is currently seeking members to help form our first Intercessory Prayer Team who will lift up LEAH leadership in fervent prayer to our Lord. If interested in becoming a Prayer Partner and to receive additional information about this opportunity please contact us at feedback@leah.org, Subject: Prayer Team
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Raquelle Sheen was homeschooled all her life and obtained her college degree from home also. She and her family have been active in the homeschooling community for many years, having served with state homeschool organizations in several states. For more articles by the Sheen family visit www.homeschoolfamilyforum.com. (c) 2009 by Raquelle Sheen. All rights reserved. Used by permission. For reprint permission, contact editor@homeschoolfamilyforum.com.
The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 23
Commencement Essay Contest Runner Up
Taking a
Fresh Look At A Longstanding Truth
2nd
Is homeschool really in any child’s best interest? Having
been homeschooled for the past fourteen years ofmy life, I have astutely observed the many methods of being educated. I have had various opportunities to be involved in learning experiences which sometimes included non-homeschoolers, which gave me insight into the lifestyle they lead. Having come to a close of this stage in my life, I must look back and conclude at what I have observed and decide what to do for the next generation not only in my future family but the people I may have influence over. The Bible says much about how to raise our children and what the results will be contingent on if we obey Him or not. God gives us children to steward and assigns parents the authority over them. Psalms 127:3-5 says that children are a heritage of the LORD. Human life is a gift which God gives to us to raise and instruct in His perfect ways. He formed us perfectly and knows what will be the best decisions for our upbringing. Matthew 22:21 says to render unto God the things that are God’s. He has given children to us, so we should follow his directions for raising them to benefit and improve the world, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) God has also said to bring your children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4) He also commands us to teach God’s word to our children in Deuteronomy 6:6-9. By understanding the responsibilities we have in our children’s lives, they will have direction and wisdom for their journey, if we follow the instruction of 10 the Lord. We don’t have to look farther than the nightly news to gain
TheMessenger Messenger | |FALL FALL2012 2012 24 | | The
understanding that what is being taught in the public schools is not the ways of the Lord. It saddens me to see so many lost opportunities. But with the opportunities we have that God has given us, we must efficiently teach this generation. During the schooling age is when children learn about life and how to make their own decisions, and they learn it from what they are being taught. How someone believes and what he believes in their heart is what defines them. It depends on the teacher and their beliefs as to what children will learn in school to think of the world, of God, and His creation. There will be a peace over our children when they are taught of the Lord (Isaiah 54:13). We need to make sure we do not accept the ways of a godless society and embrace and appreciate the signs of the times (Jeremiah 10:2). Our mind is trained to think a certain way in school. What is in the heart of someone determines the way they act on the outside. The question is what will it be trained in? Jesus charged us to love the Lord thy God with all our heart, soul, and mind in Matthew 22:37. If we are teaching our children to love God and to love people, God promises that they will have the full knowledge of how to live a life for Him. A child will receive the training of his environment, and it should be created by biblical principles, in the home, under parental leadership. In Proverbs 13:20, God says that, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” Not only is a sensible educator needed but also peers that are being instructed in the same beliefs of God. We want our children to walk with wise people, friends that will build them up. “Bad company corrupts good character” is a very real reality. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and ac-
Written by Nathaniel Renz Rochester, NY www.leah.org www.leah.org
People to go into politics, to change religion, to change the media, to change style. We need people who are going to think and take initiative, not be robots. God needs world changers, people who are going to step up and think differently. Home education means learning biblical standards for life in a family environment. “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) We need to look at what is resulting from home education and realize that this was God’s intended plan. God has shown that if we can do what He asks He will follow through on his promises. God promises results that we see because His ways are without flaw. If we teach our children His ways and plant the seeds He will help them grow into the image of Christ. The only way we can continue on this path of success is by standing firm, by not compromising. There is no negotiating with the powers at work in the world. There is no guarantee that your children will become Christians or stay a Christian forever if you school them at home but it is much more likely when it is in a God-centered home. We need to be ready to face whatever may come and that depends on our faith and our beliefs in right and wrong. Our decisions are going to affect the future of humanity.
ceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2) It’s easier to follow God in an environment where people are also following Him, not a place where there is no standard of a higher calling. A place of peace without bitterness, envying, strife all around, a place where there is wisdom and humility being taught. A home where there are no drugs, no guns, no education in things that don’t need to be learned. If our children are raised in a place where people encourage them and support their endeavors they will have a higher rate of success. Clearly we can learn what will happen when we heed God’s word and create a godly atmosphere. We have the opportunity of school to learn about what God has given us, to explore and develop our talents. Not only to expand what weare gifted at, but to appreciate what God has created, to learn about how everything works together and that nothing was created by chance. We want to teach children to think, to question, to solve problems, and to challenge the world’s standards. Being homeschooled does not mean never going outside. The world will always be out there and God needs people to go out and change it. He calls us to be in the world but not of the world. People that will go into the world and not be afraid to be different.
2013
Will you have a senior in 2013? 2013 NYS LEAH COMMENCEMENT
In order to participate in the June 1, 2013 ceremony: Your family must be a current member of a local LEAH Chapter and have also been a LEAH member for at least the last two years. This policy was adopted by the NYS LEAH Board. The 2013 Commencement Ceremony will be held at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center in conjunction with the 29th Annual LEAH Conference at 5 PM, on June 1, 2013. Registration forms will be available after December 1, 2012 online at: www.leah.org or by mail. Registration Deadline is January 31, 2013.
L E A H ommencement C www.leah.org
Questions? Contact Commencement Coordinators John and Holly Phillips: 607-868-5518
The Messenger | FALL 2012 |
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The Messenger is always seeking new content for future issues. Please contact us at feedback@leah.org with ideas for articles, activities, contests, and other content you feel would bless homeschooling families in New York. Help “The Messenger” to become “Your” Messenger and be part of the conversation today! The next deadline to submit feedback and content for review is January 5, 2013.
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The Messenger | FALL 2012 |
Dad’s Corner
Too M any Dad Holes
By Todd Wilson
Hey Dad,
en hit the t. Last night, I ev bi tle lit a st ju in p , but my I’m hoping to slee pes of sleeping in at ho th d s ha I ng . ni ly or te la m I hate the weather alked in, got in e I’ve felt under is morning he w Th n! ai ag … at hay early becaus th l the Wii…the al y Cal (6) ruined to change ‘me’ on ed ne “I y, nc ge little morning bo 1-1-ur nounced with 9fat!!” our faces and an t, and his head is or sh o to ay w ’s , he in 4 months, nose is all pointy ii hasn’t been used W e th g in er id the ns …my morning… at came from, co ng th ni re or he m w e re th su of t n I’m no g concer s that it was his bi but it was obviou ing to sleep in. weariness in morning I was go ds, and I see the da of t lo a to lk emplating I ta a parent. In fact, r if some are cont g de in on be w sy lf ea ha t I t no It’s y it, bu ices. They don’t sa their faces and vo ng in the checking out. g day, I was relaxi tin us ha ex an er or, “Oh, e aft ish through the do just getting hom gu er an aft ith k, w ee e w m st La t to er. ‘Frank’ my wife called ou t me like a hamm n hi he It w ” ’ y. da om er ro st ye ne and e ‘thro test guys I knew… committed suicid ’ ar nk sm ra e ‘F th . of dd e To on my word, ildren, & was ch, had seven ch went to our chur d view, I liked him. ry. In his cloude ea w as w he e m hat he left hys, but I assu uch about the w e sadness is for w m th t ow bu kn d, t sa n’ ly do e ep W weariness so de and stopped. His best way out. It’s ry e ea th w e lik ew gr ed he em it se because their days. t he’ll miss out on le’ for the rest of behind and wha ho e ‘th el fe ill w ildren uple days is over, but his ch , Andrew L. a co an m ily m Fa w llo fe nt. as just talking to in a tragic accide w k I ee s. w le is ho th g bi ed e di Dads leav d friend of his a 40-year-old da ago, and he said d,” he said sadly. “He was a great da les. Dads leave big ho t stop. d weary. But don’ an ed tir re u’ yo you I know ur family needs Yo My fellow, Dad, k. as , lp he ed If you ne Don’t check out. u need them. so much…and yo ing now. k out that Wii th ec ch go to t go e I’v You ‘da Dad, art in doing et us not lose he “L e is om pr e ow weary PS - Here’s th ap if we do not gr re ill w e w e tim good, for in due atians 6:9) (and stop).” (Gal
28 | The Messenger | FALL 2012
www.familymanweb.com
EMBRACE FATHERHOOD. www.leah.org
“If the Iron Be Blunt...” By: David M Watkins
“I
f the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.” Reading this verse in Ecclesiastes 10:10 recently prompted a recall from my memory banks of several instances in the past which God used to emphasize this important lesson to me. Our Boy Scout troop joined other Scout troops in the state for a summer jamboree. We were divided into teams for competition. Each team had to participate in the log chopping contest and it was late morning when we began that particular event. The axes were provided and the goal was to determine which team could chop through a selected log in the shortest amount of time. For some reason, I was elected to be our “chopper”. My opponent and I furiously swung our axes, using the skill we were supposed to have developed. Wood chips began to fly, but after several minutes, it did not seem like there was much of a dent in either one of our logs. Perspiration poured down my face as I increased the effort and strength of my swing. I just could not seem to get very deep very fast. Slightly encouraged by the observation that I was making better progress than my opponent, I worked even harder as my cut neared the middle of the log. Then it happened. My challenger’s axe went clear through his log. He had hit into a rotted portion that had been unnoticed by everyone. What a disappointment for me. He, of course, had the better time
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while I still had to finish chopping my log. It was well after that event that I realized the axe had been used several times before I picked it up and had not been sharpened between times. No wonder I felt as though I was working unproductively; but I certainly was chopping wholeheartedly and sincerely! A story I heard about Abraham Lincoln made sense after my wood chopping experience and made me wonder if he knew Ecclesiastes 10:10. He reportedly said that if he were given six hours to cut some trees, he would spend four of those hours sharpening his axe. In other words, a properly sharpened instrument is invaluable for doing a good job; and it takes concentrated time and effort to make sure the instrument is sharp. One thing to realize is that sharpening the axe does not all happen in one section of time. Lincoln did not mean to imply that he spent the first four hours sharpening the axe and the last two chopping. Rather, his schedule might look something like this: twenty minutes chopping, then forty minutes sharpening; or perhaps it could be ten minutes chopping, then twenty minutes sharpening, etc. It would be foolish and unproductive to sharpen an axe and never use it. It would also be foolish and unproductive to use an axe and never take the time to stop and re-sharpen it. Home educators need to sharpen their axes periodically. If the axe is used at all, it will become dull; and when it begins to get dull, it should immediately be sharpened. There are many helps available to help you sharpen your axe - Scripture, prayer, and in the case of home education, your state homeschool organization. It is well worth your time to spend time in preparation for the work that is ahead of you. Don’t wait until you are in a situation where you need it desperately and find that your tools are not sharp enough to help you. First published in The Paper MACHE. David Watkins is the pastor of Heritage Baptist Church in Blaine, Minnesota. David had been the Chairman of the Board of Directors of MÂCHÉ (Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators) for seven years before becoming the Executive Director in 2011. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the National Alliance of Christian Home Education Leadership.
The Messenger | FALL 2012 | 29
LEAH Kids Connection By LEAH Kids - For LEAH Kids
Table Teasers
Funny Bones
Copy these tricky puzzles onto index cards and pass around the Thanksgiving table. Test to see who has the highest IQ in your family!
1 Why do firemen keep dalmations? 2 What happened at the quilting class
when the teacher made a joke?
Think you’re funny? Submit your original joke!
Caleb - age 9
1 What does this say? QTPI 2 What does this mean? d e d n a h 3 What does this mean? CCCCCCC 4 What does this mean? IRIGHTI 5 What does this say? XLR8 6 What does this say? 10AC Answers on page 33
Look What I Did
Answers on page 33
Brain Bender A man walks into an art gallery and concentrates on one picture in particular. The museum curator notices this and asks the man why he is so interested in that one painting. The man replies, “Brothers and sisters have I none, but that man’s father is my father’s son.” Who was in the painting? Answer on page 33
30
PARENTS::
Send us a picture of ‘ your childs latest ! achievement org
feedback@leah.
Emily- age 12, Farmington, NY
So once in every year we throng Upon a day apart, To praise the Lord with feast and song In thankfulness of heart. ~Arthur Guiterman, The First Thanksgiving
thanksgiving The word "Thanksgiving" is found about 30 times in the Bible!
Hey Kids!
Use your super sleuth skills! Find this leaf hidden somewhere in the pages of the magazine. Tell us where you found it! Be sure to include your name, age, and address to be entered into the prize drawing! feedback@leah.org
You throw away the outside and cook the inside. You eat the outside and throw away the inside.
What Did You Eat?
Answers on page 33 Send Us your original poems, jokes, or riddles! Include your name, age and address, to feedback@leah.org. If we print your submission, you will be entered into a prize drawing for a...
$5.00 McDonalds gift card!
‘ Corner Readers This season’s book to review is
Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham
After reading (or rereading!) this book, send us a short review and a rating based on 5 stars. If we print your review, you’ll be entered into our prize drawing! feedback@leah.org Entries due by January 5th.
Book Review BOOK REVIEW “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S Lewis
A very exciting story. It is written as an allegory but is not dull reading. My favorite part is when the 4 children with Aslan and his troops defeat the evil witch’s army. I would definitely recommend this book to anybody ages 10 and up! - Isaac - age 12 Hamilton NY
31
From the President’s Heart
Greetings to you all! So tell me, what do you think of the new format produced by our new team of Jeremy & Seanna Shugars as Editors and Melissa Cassulis as our Creative Director! I am super excited about this! I would be remiss in not thanking Wendy Dufkin for her faithful years of producing The Messenger. Bill and Wendy Dufkin left the LEAH Board a couple of months ago and for those of you who do not know, Wendy is in a battle for her health. I would ask that you pray for the Dufkin family as they have a difficult road ahead. However, we know that our God is the Healer! You will have received this edition by Thanksgiving. It is a time of thankfulness to God for His love and provision towards us. It is also a time to be thankful for our families and our friends. I strongly feel that this is the vision for this upcoming year in LEAH: Relationships, relationships, relationships. It will be a message I will be bringing all year. You see, relationships are really biblical. Relationship with our God. Relationship with our spouse. Relationship with our children. Relationships with our church family. And for this conversation, relationships with those who are called to this thing we call homeschooling. I would encourage you to be a part of your local support group and to be involved in the activities of LEAH such as conventions, special events, and regional meetings. Our purpose is simply this – to keep homeschooling legal in New York and to support homeschool families throughout our state. However, we cannot do that alone and need everyone to become active in their local groups. While the internet is valuable, it will never replace the one to one contact or the needed prayer and touch from other families. This past July, we lost my father-in-law, Victor Mazzullo, who had been living with us for the past two and a half years. Dad was 92, blind, and diabetic when he came to us. He needed full time care from our family, unable to do anything on his own. We truly had the opportunity to serve Jesus during those years. It was the hardest and yet greatest blessing in our lives. On July 9th, in my home, with his daughters (my wonderful and incredible wife, Elizabeth, and my sister-in-law, Janet) holding his hands and his favorite son-in-law at his feet, Dad went home to Jesus just three weeks shy of his 95th birthday. You see, it truly is about relationships! Have a blessed holiday season! Worship the King! Rudy
G
“
ive thanks to the LORD Almighty, for the LORD is good; his love endures forever.”
| 32 The| Messenger | FALL 2012 2012 The Messenger | FALL
Jeremiah 33:11
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2012 Hands-On Solutions for Homeschool Applying LEGO® Smart™ in a home-education setting is helping students explore, express, and share ideas as they make sense of the world through interactive, hands-on learning. LEGO Education is much more than just free play. Our structured approach to teaching science, literacy, numeracy, and engineering can be easily applied by home educators.
Become a LEGO Education friend, fan, or follower! For more information contact:
Sue Angermayer or Michelle Graham
877-499-9336 homeschool@LEGOeducation.us
www.LEGOeducation.us/homeschool
Kids Connection Answers: (pages 30 - 31)
Hey Kids!
Send us a picture of your best LEGO creation! Be sure to include your name, age, and address. If we publish it, you’ll be entered into the prize drawing for a McDonald’s gift card! Feedback@leah.org
Funny Bones 1) So they can “spot” the fire hydrants! 2) They were all in stitches! Brain Teaser: It was a painting of his son What Did You Eat?: Corn on the Cob!
Table Teasers: 1) Cutie Pie 2) Backhand 3) Seven Seas 4) Right Between the Eyes 5) Accelerate 6) Tennessee
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