Hermit Crabs, Health, and Homeschooling - Blogging from A to Z Challenge - Letter H

This year for the Blogging from A to Z challenge, I'm focusing on going through my homeschooling files that I've created from the time that Sophia and Olivia were in preschool.

Some of the files are still relevant while others I will be decluttering and recycling in the process. Each day during April, I will pick one of the files to focus on - either doing a hands-on activity or sharing some information from one of the files.

For the eighth day - Letter H - I am focusing on Hermit Crabs, Health, and Homeschooling.

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Hermit Crabs

Most hermit crabs have soft abdomens, which make them vulnerable to predators. To better protect itself, a hermit crab locates and carries with it an empty shell. When danger approaches, the crab pulls its entire body into the shell.
- There are about 500 known species of hermit crabs throughout the world.

Source

- Most hermit crabs are aquatic and can be found in saltwater tidal pools, on shallow coral reefs, and on the bottom of the sea.
- There are a few species of terrestrial (land living) hermit crabs. These types can grow quite large (as big as a coconut) and quite old (up to 30+ years old).

Source

- They are social creatures and usually do best when kept in groups.
- They molt and like to "bury" themselves in dirt or sand during this vulnerable time. After molting, they will search for a larger shell to use for protection.

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Health

Health is more than just eating well. Below are some lifestyle suggestions for a healthy, happy life:
- Give generously of yourself and your resources.

Sophia and Olivia visiting John at the nursing home

before a Halloween party.

(Taken on October 28, 2013.)

- View everything and everyone you meet with gratitude.
- Live each day happily without focusing on your problems.
- Treat yourself to regular daily quiet time - study, pray, meditate; recharge yourself.
- Foster a sense of humor.
- Include exercise as part of your daily life.

Heading out to go canoeing on Gunflint Lake.

(Taken on June 5, 2013.)

- Try to keep your home in good order...You are your home.
- Minimize television watching.
- Drink plenty of clean, filtered water each day.
- Offer thanks before and after meals.
- Do your best to be on good terms with people - family, friends, and co-workers.

When a challenging day appears - even a challenging hour - use items that are in a Peacemaker's Basket that you've created. All of the items within it should be meaningful and relaxing.  Possible things to include:
- lavender essential oil
- beeswax candle and matches

Nine candles we burned on Sophia's ninth birthday.

- aromatherapy hand lotion
- poetry book
- journal and pen
- letter writing supplies (including stamps)
- hot chocolate packet and a favorite mug
- photo of you as a child
- favorite inspirational message
- incense
- small piece of dark chocolate
- prayer beads

Prayer beads that I made.

(Taken on October 12, 2012.)

- special, small crocheting project
- inspirational book
- photo of loved ones
- items from nature

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Homeschooling

Pointers for Avoiding Homeschool Burnout:
- Nurture your spiritual life.
- Articulate your vision for homeschooling. What's your mission? What are your goals for your children and family? Are your current actions and time commitments consistent with your vision?
- Take care of yourself physically.
- Schedule an hour of quiet time every day. Read, crochet, or write letters - anything that helps you unwind.

Crocheted prayer shawl I made for my mom.

(Taken on December 27, 2009.)

- Reevaluate your time commitments.
- Figure out what comforts you, and do it. Take a half-hour for tea in the afternoon to regroup and recharge for the rest of the day.
- Take time to be alone.
- Learn something new.
- Do something creative. Knit, sew, paint, or write.
- Break your routine. Have breakfast for dinner. Let the dishes go until morning.
- Change your teaching approach. Have fun with your kids! Put away the textbooks for a day.
- Take long walks as a family.

Hike to the monument at Lake Shetek State Park.

(Taken on June 10, 2012.)

- Keep a gratitude journal.
- Praise your children for their academic progress and for the good things you see developing in their character.
- Do a service project together as a family.

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In the process of going through the files that began with "H," I recycled 1 more bag of papers. I'm up to 9 bags of recycling since April 1st.