50 States: Mississippi

MISSISSIPPI

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Achieving statehood on December 10, 1817, and becoming our nation's 20th state, Mississippi lies in the southern United States.  In 1540, Spanish explorer, Hernando de Soto, discovered the Mississippi River.  He was buried in it in 1542 after he died of fever.

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More than 100 years later, French explorers Marquette and Joliet explored more of the Mississippi River.  In 1682, La Salle and Cavalier traveled along the Mississippi River and claimed all the land along it for France.  The first colony was established in 1699.  The French controlled the area until the French and Indian War when it was won by the British.

When the British were defeated in the Revolutionary War, the southern part of Mississippi was given to Spain, and the northern half became part of the United States.  The U.S. laid claim to the southern half after the Louisiana Purchase, claiming that the land was a part of the deal.  With U.S. military force and little resistance by Spain, this area became part of the Mississippi Territory.

Mississippi, postal abbreviation MS, is the 32nd biggest state.  The capital city is Jackson and is named after Major General Andrew Jackson who would come to be the seventh president of the United States, serving from 1829 to 1837.

Mississippi's two nicknames are "The Magnolia State" and "The Hospitality State."  The former is the official nickname and is because the Magnolia is the state flower and the state tree.  The Magnolia is depicted on the Mississippi quarter.

The state bird is the Mockingbird, and the state mammal is the white-tailed deer.  The bottlenosed dolphin is the state water mammal.  The honeybee is the state insect, while the state butterfly is the spicebush swallowtail.  The fish is the largemouth bass, and the state shell is the oyster.  

Mississippi's state flag was adopted in 1894 and contains a small Confederate flag in the upper left corner and one blue, one red, and one white horizontal stripe.

People who live in Mississippi are called Mississippians.  Famous people born in Mississippi include boxer/minister Henry Armstrong; radio/television personality Red Barber; mayor of Washington, D.C., Marion Barry, Jr.; civil rights activists Ruby Bridges and Medgar Evers, singers Jimmy Buffett and Brandy and Bo Diddley; football coach Tony Dungy; authors William Faulkner and Shelby Foote; creator of The Muppets Jim Henson; founder of BET Robert Johnson; Elvis Presley; Leann Rimes; Ike Turner; Conway Twitty; and Oprah Winfrey.  There have been many authors, sports stars, civil rights activists, and musicians/singers born in Mississippi.

The world's first lung transplant was performed at the University of Mississippi.  The observance of Memorial Day resulted from the kindness of women in Mississippi who, on April 25, 1866, placed flowers on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers.  This state is the home to the International Checkers Hall of Fame.

Mississippi boasts some "Capitals of the World":

Greenwood is called the "Cotton Capital of the World."

Belzoni is "Catfish Capital of the World."

Vardaman is "Sweet Potato Capital of the World."

Root beer was invented in Biloxi in the late 19th century.  Pine Sol was invented in Jackson.  There is a cactus plantation in Edwards; it is the only one in the world.  Holmes County is home to the very first 4-H Club; it began in 1907.  It is said that the Mississippi Delta is the birthplace of the Blues.

There are many things to do in Mississippi.  Like every state, there are zoos, museums, amusement parks, and state parks.  There are also military parks.  Mississippi lost more men in the Civil War than any other southern state.  Sixteen separate sites are national parks.  The antebellum life is represented by numerous plantations.  Rowan Oak is William Faulkner's House and can be toured.  Dockery Plantation is a cotton plantation and sawmill. It is said that the Blues began here.

Try your hand at some Mississippi learning games.

The following items are for sale through Christianbook.com.  

Mississippi Pocket Guide, Grades 3-8 By Carole Marsh / Gallopade International The perfect reference guide. This handy 4" x 6", easy-to-use guide is divided into seven color-coded sections which include: basics, history, geography, people, places, nature, and more! Riddles, recipes, and surprising facts make this guide a delight! Available for all 50 states! Grades 3-8; ages 8-14.

Historic Churches of Mississippi By Sherry Pace / University Press of Mississippi

It Happened in Mississippi By Marlo Carter Kirkpatrick / Globe Pequot

My Vicksburg By Ann Rinaldi / Harcourt Children's Books Claire Louise and her family are forced to leave their home in Mississippi when the Yankees lay siege in their town during the Civil War. The inhabitants of Vicksburg, Mississippi, take refuge in caves for forty-seven days. When Claire's older brother, Landon, a doctor in the Union Army, shows up with a Confederate soldier, Claire knows that there's more to this story than what she is being told. With war comes difficult choices . . . will Claire make a decision where she can live with its consequences?

Mark Twain: Life on the Mississippi By Mark Twain / Library of America

The Storm: Students of Biloxi, Mississippi, Remember Hurricane Katrina By Barbara Barbieri McGrath / Charlesbridge Publishing On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated the coastlines of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. It was a storm the people of Biloxi, Mississippi, like many other Gulf Coast residents, will never forget. Students, teachers, and administrators from the Biloxi Public Schools share their stories from the days preceding Hurricane Katrina to those first days of recovery after the storm. And even while their city lay in ruins, one remarkable lighthouse survived, serving as a beacon of hope. Their powerful images and moving personal accounts pay tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each book will be donated to the Biloxi Public Schools.

The Civil War, a Narrative, Vol. 1 By Shelby Foote / Random House, Inc Twenty years ago, in 1954, novelist Shelby Foote began this monumental work with these words: "It was a Monday in Washington, January 21; Jefferson Davis rose from his seat in the Senate..." In the third -- and last -- volume of this vivid history, he brings to a close the story of four years of turmoil and strife which altered American life forever. Here, told in vivid narrative and as seen from both sides, are those climactic struggles, great and small, on and off the field of battle, which finally decided the fate of this nation. "Red River to Appomattox" opens with the beginning of the two final, major confrontations of the war: Grant against Lee in Virginia, and Sherman pressing Johnston in North Georgia. While the Virginia-Georgia fighting is in progress, Kearsarge sinks the Alabama and Forrest gains new laurels at Brice's Crossroads. With Grant and Lee deadlocked at Petersburg, Sherman takes Atlanta -- assuring Lincoln's reelection, together with the certainty that the war will be fought (not negotiated) to a finish. These events are followed by Hood's bold northward strike through middle Tennessee while Sherman sets out on his march to the sea, to be opposed at its end by the ghost of the Army of Tennessee. Hood is wrecked by Thomas in front of Nashville-the last big battle -- and Savannah falls to Sherman, who presents it to Lincoln as a Christmas gift. Meantime, Early has threatened Washington, Price has toured Missouri, Farragut has damned the torpedoes in Mobile Bay, Forrest has raided Memphis, and Cushing has single-handedly sunk the Albemarle. And Sherman heads north through the Carolinas, burning Columbia en route, while Sheridan rips the entrails out of the Shenandoah Valley. Lincoln's second inaugural sets the seal on these hostilities, invoking "charity for all" on the Eve of Five Forks and the Grant-Lee race for Appomattox. Here is the dust and stench of war, a sort of Twilight of the Gods, with occasional lurid flare-ups, mass desertions, and the queasiness that accompanies the risk of being the last man to die. Then, penultimately. Lee at Appomattox, the one really shining figure in this last act.Davis's flight south from fallen Richmond overlaps Lincoln's death from Booth's derringer, and his capture at Irwinville comes amid the surrender of the last Confederate armies, east and west of the Mississippi River. The epilogue is Lincoln in his grave: and Davis in his posthumous existence. "Lucifer in Starlight." So ends a unique achievement -- already recognized as one of the finest histories ever fashioned by an American -- a narrative of over a million and a half words which recreates on a vast and brilliant canvas the events and personalities of an American epic: The Civil War.

Battlefields of the Civil War By Peter Cozzens / Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.

Behind the Blue and the Gray: The Solider's Life in the Civil War By Delia Ray / Puffin Books Telling the story of the "common soldier", Behind the Blue and Gray tells the stories of the men who fought and died behind the walls of smoke and battlefield commotion. Comprised of actual letters, photographs, and essays on the Civil War, this personalized view of the war is touching and a good reminder of the sacrifices made throughout history. 102 pages, softcover.

The Atlas of the Civil War By Edited by James M. McPherson / Running Press Follow the drama of the war that changed America with this unparalleled reference. Major campaigns and skirmishes from Fort Sumter to Appomattox are plotted on 200 full-color maps. Dynamic reconstructions depict every confrontation on land, river, and ocean. Timelines provide play-by-play commentary of battlefield action. Filled with photographs, illustrations, and gripping eyewitness accounts. 223 pages, 9" x 12" hardcover from Courage.

Battles of the Civil War Wall Map (in a Tube) By National Geographic Maps Created originally as a supplement to the April 2005 NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC magazine, Battles of the Civil War is rich with detail, showing battle sites with numerous call-outs describing specific battles as well as dates and battle routes. Insets highlight ''Turning Points of the War,'' ''Battle for the Capitols,'' as well as battle death tolls. 36 x 23 inches (approx).

Great Writers: William Faulkner By Kultur International Films

I Believe: The Gospel Masters, 4 CD Set By Elvis Presley / RCA Records Label Worship the King of heaven with the king of rock 'n' roll! This definitive gospel collection features over 65 favorites from Elvis, including "I Believe"; "Take My Hand, Precious Lord"; "Joshua Fit the Battle"; "How Great Thou Art"; "Down by the Riverside/When the Saints Go Marching In"; "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"; "Bosom of Abraham"; and "Oh, How I Love Jesus." Four CDs.

Christmas Duets CD By Elvis Presley / Provident Music Distribution Celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace with the king of rock and roll and some of today's most popular country stars! Martina McBride, Anne Murray, Jessica Simpson, Sara Evans, LeeAnn Rimes, and others join Elvis in heartwarming duets of "Blue Christmas," "Silver Bells," "Silent Night," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and more.

The Gospel Side of Elvis - eBook By Joel Moscheo / Center Street Gospel music was a significant part of not only who Elvis was as a man, but as an artist as well. This book looks at his roots and the role of gospel in his foundational years, as well as the comfort, solace, and strength it offered him in the years of his meteoric rise in popularity. From the All-Night sings he attended in his youth to the gospel quartets he incorporated into his shows, Elvis insisted on having constant access to the music he loved. He found it to be a source of comfort when the demands of his career were too much. He used it as a way to stay in shape vocally or to pass the time while on movie sets. He gathered friends, family, and admirers in his suite after shows to unwind during which Gospel was the music of choice. It was enrichment, it was comfort, it was home for him.

Apologia: Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics Review

Apologia Educational Ministries has many superb resources for learning, including science, Bible, history, and language arts.  We received Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics and the Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics Notebooking Journal.  I used them with Paige, who is in sixth grade.

The chemistry and physics textbook is a hardcover book geared towards children in grades K through 6 and retails for $39.00.  There are 14 separate topics spread across this 280-page book.  Some of the topics are matter, atoms, compounds, mixtures, mechanics, friction, energy, sound, light, heat, electricity, magnetism, and machines.

The notebooking journal we used and which is pictured here is a spiral-bound book for upper-elementary grades and retails $24.00.  There is another journal, the junior notebooking journal, which is for early-elementary grades and is $24.00 as well.

We have used Apologia's science curricula for years: Botany, Astronomy, Swimming Creatures, etc., and have always loved it.  This was the first year we used the notebooking journal.

As soon as we received the book, we started using it.  The science concepts are taught so that even young children can understand them, but the book seems cluttered.  There is a lot going on on each page.  Since the book is appropriate for all elementary-aged children, some things are worded so that the younger children are engaged, i.e., things are repeated to get a point across, rhetorical questions are asked, silly comments are made.  Those things, however, are below the level of a sixth grader.  They do not detract from the learning, though.

There are sections in each chapter called, "Try This!"  Some are games; some are experiments.  We did not do each one since there are so many of them.  They are set apart from the rest of the text inside a blue box.  Inside the box is a paragraph or two of instructions.  I don't know if it was the fact that there were so many Try This! sections or the fact that they were cluttered, but I felt overwhelmed by them.  It would have been easier, for me, if they were subtitled with words like 'games' or 'experiment' and set up in an outline form.

There are beautiful and interesting images and illustrations throughout the book that helped Paige understand what she was learning.  We liked the snowflake pictures and the drawings of gas molecules heating up and then coming together to form rain—very cute!

The notebooking journal has a syllabus in the front of it, which we followed.  Every other day or every third day, there is work to do in the journal after reading from the text.  Paige did not enjoy having work to do, but I was glad for the journal.  It provided structure and a means to gauge her learning.

At the beginning of each section, there are a few pages on which she could take notes.  There is a crossword puzzle and some copywork pages which include a page for printing a verse and a page for cursive writing.  Each lesson has a hands-on project (mini-book, wheel, envelopes) and additional experiments.  The last part of each lesson in the journal has a page or two of questions to see what she remembered.  Most of the time she was able to recall the information without having to look back in the book to find it.

In the back of the textbook, there is a supply list for each lesson and an answer key for all of the "What Do You Remember?" sections.

What I liked:

*It is written with a Christian worldview.

*It is easily understood but not dumbed down.

*There are a lot of different activities to enhance learning.

*The journal is a super resource!

*There are great illustrations.

What I didn't like:

*It is very wordy without significant section breaks.

*The Try This! sections are overwhelming.

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50 States: Minnesota

MINNESOTA

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Minnesota is located in the Midwest and is the nation's 32nd state.  It was granted statehood on May 11, 1858.  The postal abbreviation is MN.  The name comes from a Dakota Sioux word meaning "sky water."

Minnesota was explored by the French: Marquette, Joliet, Cavelier, and Sieur de la Salle.  The land was finally claimed for King Louis XIV in 1679.  After the Revolutionary War, the United States acquired the eastern part of Minnesota but did not control the northern or western parts.  As part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, western Minnesota became a part of the United States.  It was not until 1818 that Britain finally relinquished the northern part of Minnesota to the U.S.

The capital is St. Paul, and its nearest neighbor, Minneapolis, is the largest city in the state.  Together, they are referred to as the "Twin Cities."

Minnesota is a state whose economy is supported largely by farming.  Corn, soybeans, wheat, and dairy products are produced here, as well as paper products.  Mining is part of the economy with 75% of the nation's iron ore being found in this state.  Tourism is also important as millions of visitors come to Minnesota every year for the arts and outdoor activities.

There have been quite a few things invented in Minnesota including masking tape and scotch tape, Wheaties cereal, rollerblades, the stapler, the snowmobile, Bisquick, the bundt pan, Spam, and Green Giant vegetables.  Tonka trucks are made in Minnetonka.  Frank C. Mars first made Milky Way bars in 1923, Snickers in 1930, and Three Musketeers in 1937.  The first open heart surgery was performed at the University of Minnesota, as well as the first bone marrow transplant.  Greyhound Lines, Inc., began in 1914 under another name.  It was the first bus line in the nation.

Minnesota has at least three nicknames: Gopher State, North Star State, and Land of 10,000 Lakes.  The motto is "L'Etoile du Nord," which is French for "The Star of the North."  The state symbols are as follows:

Bird - Common loon

Insect - Monarch butterfly

Fish - Walleye

Flower - Pink and white lady's slipper

Tree - Norway Pine

Mushroom - Morel

Grain - Wild rice

Beverage - Milk

Muffin - Blueberry

I find it very interesting that MN has a state mushroom and muffin.

People who live in Minnesota are called Minnesotans.  Some famous people born here include various musicians, authors, and actors, including Eddie Cochran, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Bob Dylan.  Judy Garland, famous for The Wizard of Oz, was born in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.  J. Paul Getty was president of the Getty Oil Company.  Garrison Keillor was born in Anoka in 1942 and is responsible for the radio program, A Prairie Home Companion.  Famous baseball player, Roger Maris, hit 61 home runs in 1961.  The creator of the Peanuts cartoon, Charles Schulz, was born in Minneapolis in 1922.  Richard W. Sears, the founder of Sears, Roebuck, and Co., lived from 1863 to 1914 and was born in Stewartville.  Toni Stone was the first female baseball player to play professional ball by joining the Negro Leagues.  Check out some of the other famous people born in Minnesota.

The flag of Minnesota was adopted in 1893 and has the state seal on it.  There is a farmer with a plow and an Indian riding a horse.  Ladyslippers surround them, and the state motto is displayed.  There are three dates listed on the flag: 1858, which is when MN became a state; 1819, which is when Fort Snelling was established, and 1893 when the flag was adopted.

Speaking of Fort Snelling, it is one of the many places to visit in Minnesota.  It is located where the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers meet.  Other popular destinations include the Mall of America, which is 9.5 million square feet and includes 520 stores, 50 restaurants, an indoor theme park, an aquarium, a theater, and a Lego store; the state fair lasts 12 days from August through Labor Day; Valleyfair amusement park; the Minnesota Zoo; Glensheen Historic Estate; American Swedish Institute; Paul Bunyan Land; Forestville Mystery Cave State Park; and the Wilder Museum in Walnut Grove.  There are scores of national parks and ski resorts, zoos and museums.  The Minnesota Historic Society has a website that lists many of the historic sites in Minnesota.  I encourage you to check it out.  There are some interesting sites like the W.W. Mayo House.  Can you figure out what his claim to fame is?  No, it's not mayonnaise.

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal has some online games about fire safety.

Play some state symbol games here.

The following list of resources comes from Christianbook.com.  I am an affiliate with christianbook.com.  If you choose to purchase any products through my blog, I will receive a commission.

State Shapes: Minnesota By Workman Publishing These colorful, fact-filled books are irresistible! Die-cut in the shape of the state, each one takes readers on a fascinating journey to visit intriguing places, meet famous and historic figures, learn about animals and wildlife, and experience the culture that makes each state unique. Packed with fun facts, exciting history, and fascinating folklore, State Shapes are illustrated with a warmth, humor, and flare that will appeal to kids and parents alike. Hardcover, 47 pages.

Minnesota Jography, Grades K-8 By Carole Marsh / Gallopade International Geography activities include information on rivers, museums, historic places, sites of interest, bordering states, climate, topography, crops, and more! Approximately 30 activities and 200 geography-related places and facts are covered. This book is filled with exercises that reinforce learning, sharpen research skills, and provide a lively resource about their state. Includes: Fast "Fax", word search, multiple choice, and more! Reproducible. Available for all 50 states! Grades 3-8; ages 8-14.

The Long Way Westward By Joan Sandin / HarperTrophy This lively sequel to The Long Way to a New Land follows the fortunes of Carl Erik's family from New York City to the farmlands of Minnesota.

The Long Way Westward Progeny Press Study Guide By Progeny Press Long Way Westward is the sequel to Long Way to a New Land. America is full of surprises. The streets are not paved with gold! Carl Erik and his family travel west on train after train to La Crosse, Wisconsin. From there, they travel by steamboat to Anoka, Minnesota, where their uncle lives and Papa has work. All the travel, the dangers, the crowds, and the cold are forgotten the moment they arrive. They're finally home! Progeny Press Study Guides provide teachers, parents, and students with literary analysis based upon the foundation of the Bible. Examining well-written literature in relation to biblical standards, students will develop and refine how they deal with man's philosophies while learning about the craft of writing. Progeny Press Study Guides deal with literature as works of art and philosophy as they explain and use literary terms; deal with plot construction; dig into character studies; and bring attention to themes and ideas the author has crafted. Easy-to-use lessons include vocabulary, comprehension, analysis and critical thinking exercises, questions on related Biblical principles, activities, and a complete answer key. 34 reproducible pages, paperback. Grades 1-3. Covers may vary.

States, Capitals & Abbreviations Set (Revised) By Learning Wrap Ups In most schools, fifth graders attempt to memorize the states and their capital cities. Why not take advantage of this wonderful learning tool that makes memorizing capital cities a breeze. As a bonus, it also covers the two letter postal abbreviations for all 50 states. Is MI the abbreviation for Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Michigan, or Maine? States, Capitals, and Abbreviation Wrap-Ups will help so that you and your students will never wonder again. By the way, it's Michigan.

On the Banks of Plum Creek, Little House on the Prairie Series #4 By Laura Ingalls Wilder / Harpercollins Publishing Laura's family's first home in Minnesota is made of sod, but Pa builds a clean new house made of sawed lumber beside Plum Creek. The money for materials will come from their first wheat crop. Then, just before the wheat is ready to harvest, a strange glittering cloud fills the sky, blocking out the sun. Soon millions of grasshoppers cover the field and everything on the farm. In a week's time, there is no wheat crop left at all. Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Peanuts Daybrightener By Charles Schulz / Dayspring Young and old alike will love this one-of-a-kind collection of Peanuts comic strips, including many original inspirational strips and Biblical Scriptures. Linus' Bible quotations and Christmas pageant fun combine to create a daily dose of joy! Free standing for table or desktop; 366 pages; wire coil; measures 5.25" x 4.25" x 1.5".

Happiness is a Warm Blanket, Charlie Brown By Charles M. Schulz / Running Press Kids Linus loves his blanket, always has, and he always will. It gives him a real security that nothing else does. Soon Linus' Grandma is coming to visit, and she wants to take his blanket away from him. See how difficult it is for Linus to shed his security blanket, and learn that everybody (including the rest of the Peanuts gang!) has something to help them feel more secure. An excellent gift for any child (or Charlie Brown fan) and features illustrations from the new television special!

It's the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown: With Sound and Music By Charles M. Schulz / Running Press Kids It's almost Easter, and Charlie Brown and his friends are all getting ready for it. Between mishaps with coloring eggs, Christmas decorations up early, and materialistic attitudes, it doesn't seem like anything will go right this Easter. But as Linus keeps reminding the others, just wait for the Easter beagle. Join Charlie Brown and his friends as they discover that even when it seems like everything is going wrong, it can change for the better in an instant! Featuring fun sound and music press buttons for added story effects!

Roger Maris: Baseball's Reluctant Hero - eBook By Tom Clavin & Danny Peary / Touchstone

The Great Gatsby, Reissue By F. Scott Fitzgerald / Scribner Gatsby's green light at the end of the dock has come to serve as a cultural and literary touchstone for the American dream. Following Nick Carraway's meeting and interaction with Gatsby as the latter attempts to win back the married Daisy Buchanan, The Great Gatsby perfectly captures the air of jazz-age, post-war America as well as its empty consumerism and obsession with status. 180 pages, softcover.

The Great Gatsby Progeny Press Study Guide By Progeny Press The Great Gatsby takes place in the roaring 1920s. Nick Carraway finds himself living among the idle rich. As he surveys their reckless lives and relationships, he is repeatedly drawn to one man who still believes in the American Dream: Jay Gatsby. As Nick and Gatsby are carried along by forces that neither of them fully control or understand, they get a thorough education on the consequences of materialism, deceit, and petty self-interest. Progeny Press Study Guides provide teachers, parents, and students with literary analysis based upon the foundation of the Bible. Examining well-written literature in relation to biblical standards, students will develop and refine how they deal with man's philosophies while learning about the craft of writing. Progeny Press Study Guides deal with literature as works of art and philosophy as they explain and use literary terms; deal with plot construction; dig into character studies; and bring attention to themes and ideas the author has crafted. Easy-to-use lessons include vocabulary, comprehension, analysis and critical thinking exercises, questions on related Biblical principles, activities, and a complete answer key. Middle & High School guides take approximately from 8 to 10 weeks to complete. 82 pages, paperback. Grades 9-12. Covers may vary.

An Experience in Murphy's Law

The request went out this afternoon for a list of fun activities to do with the family.  I received many different responses such as mini golf, a trampoline place, riding bikes on the beach, etc.  We chose to go see a movie instead since we don't do that very often.  There are a long list of movies we want to see starting next Friday, but there isn't anything showing currently that we were dying to see.  After reviewing a couple of movies on Focus on the Family's PluggedIn, we decided to see Free Birds.  I didn't review this one, but it was a kid-friendly animated feature.  The preview made it look funny.  That person must get paid big bucks because this movie was not funny in any way whatsoever.  In fact, it was easily one of the worst movies I have ever seen, and I've seen a lot of movies.  Of course, the fact that we paid movie theater prices (minus our coupon savings) probably added to the disappointment.  The writers just tried too hard to be funny.  They failed.  The jokes and tactics that make other movies of the same genre funny did not work in this one.  They beat their unfunny jokes into the ground.  The slap stick humor did not work when the main characters were turkeys.  Some jokes I just did not get.  I wondered if my kids did.  It was just stupid.  Strike one!

After leaving the theater, we decided to obtain some refreshment.  We drove a few miles away to get milkshakes at McDonald's.  We placed our order only to be told that the machine that makes shakes was not working.  Strike two!

Denny's was just a few hundred feet away, so we stopped there.  Three different people tried to seat us.  They were very friendly.  This was shaping up to be a pleasant experience, even though the clientele looked a bit shady.  The paper place mat had some delectable desserts pictured on it.  John and I ordered apple crisp to share.  They had just run out.  So, I ordered an Oreo shake.  The kids ordered the pumpkin milkshake and red velvet cake balls that were on the place mat.  Our waitress checked in the kitchen to be sure they had them.  It seems that someone had set the place mats our prematurely, and none of the items were available until next week.  We left.  Strike three!

As we drove to our next destination, we passed a Sprint store.  Paige has had some issues with her phone, so we decided to stop and ask if there was anything we could do about fixing it.  We saw two people inside the store, so we knew they were open.  When we pulled into the parking lot, there were no cars by the store, and the sign said they closed at 8:00.  (It was 9:30.)  It seems the people we saw were plastered on the wall behind the register.  It was just a picture.  Strike four!

By this point, I'm trying to figure out the moral.

I wanted to try a restaurant we hadn't been to before, so we pulled into Carrabba's and asked a waitress who had just gotten off duty and was walking to her car what their desserts were.  They were all very Italian, nothing the kids would eat.  We ended up at Wendy's to get Frosties.  We ordered two medium vanilla, one medium chocolate, and two large unsweetened iced teas.  After rehashing our order at least five times, she finally got it right.  At least I hoped she had.  The car in front of us was at the window for quite some time until the girl finally asked him to just pull forward and wait for someone to bring his order out to him.  We received our teas and our vanilla Frosties, but the chocolate had just been refilled and wasn't frozen yet.  Really?  Can't we just get something right?

After that, we made a beeline for home.  This has been one of those nights when we sit down to pray we will thank God that it is over and tomorrow is a new day.  Of course, we were together as a family.  We made memories.  You know, those memories when you say, "Remember how bad..." or "Remember when we couldn't..."  I feel like we have a lot of those.  Hmmm.

What can I leave you with after our experience?  The milkshake machine won't always be broken.  The delicious-looking menu items won't be out of reach next week.  The Sprint store won't always be closed.  BUT, Free Birds will ALWAYS be a bad movie.  Don't waste your time or your hard-earned money.  You will feel like you've been robbed.

I can't wait until the second Hunger Games, Thor II, and the second Hobbit movie!!!!!  I think I'll stick with what I know from now on.

The Force is Free on Kindle!

The Force (The Kingdom Chronicles) by Joyce and Alexandra Swann is free today through November 2.  It is the sequel to The Fourth Kingdom.  I am enjoying reading this book as it has characters you love and characters you hope get what's coming to them. It is intriguing, and you wonder how long it'll take before the "secret" is uncovered.  While I haven't gotten to The Force yet, I expect it to be even better than The Fourth Kingdom and can't wait to get started.

The Force (The Kingdom Chronicles) is free on right now for your Kindle through Amazon.com.

Summer/Fall Series: 50 States - Michigan

MICHIGAN

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Home to the nation's third oldest European settlement—Sault Ste. Marie—Michigan is our 26th state.  Statehood was granted on January 26, 1837.  The word Michigan comes from a Chippewa word, "meicigama," which means "large lake."  The postal abbreviation is MI.  (Remember that Maine is ME, Maryland is MD, and Massachusetts is MA.)

Michigan's state motto is another long one: Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam, circum spice.  It means "if you are seeking an amenable peninsula, look around you."  There is both an upper and a lower peninsula in this state.

The capital of Michigan is Lansing.  It became the capital in 1847 and is named for an area of New York from which the settlers to Lansing, Michigan, came.  Detroit was the capital before that from 1805 to 1847.  Detroit comes from the French word for "strait."

Battle Creek, Michigan, is the Cereal Capital of the World because the Kellogg Company is located there.  Look at any box of Kellogg's cereal you may have in your pantry, and you'll see Battle Creek on it.  Detroit is where Vernor's ginger ale is made.  It was the first soda pop in the U.S. and was created in 1862 by pharmacist James Vernor.  Detroit also the center of the auto industry in the U.S.  General Motors is still headquartered there.  Motown Records began in Detroit, and Faygo Beverages, Inc., was founded here in 1907.  Sault Ste. Marie, the third oldest European settlement, was founded in 1668 by Father Jacques Marquette.

The major industries here continue to include car manufacturing and farming.  Timber and fishing add to the state's economy, too.

Michigan has the longest shoreline along freshwater on the globe, more than 3,100 miles.  It also touches four of the five Great Lakes.  There is always something to do in Michigan with all of the state parks and recreational areas.  Visitors can tour Mackinac Island which is home to the historic Grand Hotel.  The Henry Ford Museum is located in Dearborn, and there are many zoos and amusement parks, as well as museums.

This state has several nicknames such as "The Great Lake State" and "Wolverine State."  However, there are no more wolverines located in Michigan.  The state bird is the Robin, and the state mammal is the white-tailed deer.  The painted turtle is the state reptile, and the brook trout is the state fish.

The apple blossom is the state flower, and the Dwarf Lake iris is the state wildflower.  The state tree is the white pine.

The Michigan state flag was adopted in 1911.

On the blue background stands an elk and a moose which flank a blue shield with the word, "TUEBOR," on it which means "I will defend."  A man with his hand raised and a gun in the other hand stands on the shore as the sun either sets or rises behind him is seen in the shield.  The state motto lies below shield, and the United States motto, "E pluribus unum," is above it.  An eagle with an olive branch and 3 arrows sits between the shield and the U.S. motto.

People who live in Michigan are called Michiganders, Michiganians, and Michiganites.  Some famous people born here include director/producer Francis Ford Coppola; Henry Ford; founder of Motown Records, Barry Gordy, Jr.; director/producer John Hughes; Magic Johnson; author of the Left Behind series, Tim Lahaye; W.K. Kellogg; actor Taylor Lautner; Charles Lindbergh; Lee Majors of "The Six Million Dollar Man" fame; co-founder of Google Larry Page; boxer Sugar Ray Robinson; Mitt Romney; Steven Seagal; and tennis star Serena Williams.

Enjoy some Michigan games.

The following are some Michigan resources that can be found at christianbook.com.  I am an affiliate with christianbook.com, so if you purchase through my blog I will receive a commission.

Michigan By Willis Dunbar / Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. Covering the entire scope of the Wolverine State's historical record - from the time humankind first arrived in the area around 9,000 B.C. right up to the present gubernatorial administration - this new edition of Michigan now also examines Michigan's colorful history from 1980 to 1994.  **This may not agree with the timeline of a six-day creation view of history.

The Mystery on the Great Lakes: Michigan* Superior* Huron* Ontario* Erie By Carole Marsh / Gallopade International

Michigan Native Peoples By Marcia Schonberg / Heinemann Raintree

All Around Michigan: Regions And Resources By Alexandra Fix / Heinemann Raintree This book contains all kinds of fun and fascinating facts about the regions of Michigan and their valuable resources. You'll find colorful maps that help you locate Michigan's regions and understand their features. You will learn about the many natural and man-made resources of the state and how they affect its economy.

People Of Michigan By Marcia Schonberg / Heinemann Raintree

Danger on the Great Lakes - eBook By Carolyn Keene / Aladdin

Great Lakes Indians: A Pictorial Guide - eBook By William J. Kubiak / Baker Show your students what America looked like before it was settled by the pioneers . . . when it was the dominion of the North American Indians. Packed with 139 sketches and paintings, Kubiak's fascinating resource features valuable cultural and historical information about 25 tribes of Algonquian, Iroquoian, and Siouan stock. 224 pages, softcover from Baker.

Henry Ford By Carole Marsh / Gallopade International Correlated to state and national standards, this series teaches students about important people, places, and events in history. Broken down into short, easy to read passages reinforced by simple activities, each reader includes a glossary, interesting facts, reading, puzzles, highlights of achievements, sequencing of important events, and simple math activities. 12 pages each. Grades K-4.

Eat My Dust! Henry Ford's First Race By Monica Kulling / Random House, Inc It's 1901, and Henry Ford wants to build a car that everyone can own. But first he needs the money to produce it. How will he get it? He enters a car race, of course! Readers will love this fast-paced, fact-based story! For ages 6-8.

Henry Ford: Young Man with Ideas By Hazel B. Aird, Wallace Wood(ILLUS) & Catherine Ruddiman / Aladdin

Love Finds You in Mackinac Island, Michigan By Melanie Dobson / Summerside Press Though Elena Bissett's once-wealthy family is determined to find her a rich suitor, she'd rather secretly meet a fisherman named Chase at the lighthouse---where they work to solve a decades-old mystery. But when she's forced to meet elusive millionaire Chester Darrington, her two worlds collide. Must she choose between her heart and her family's future? 320 pages, softcover from Summerside.

The Grand Hotel - eBook By Mary Davis / Barbour Publishing A family legend brings Aimee Mikkelson to the Grand Hotel on Michigan's Mackinac Island. As she seeks to uncover a hidden inheritance, Aimee's carefree nature hits a wall of organization - Mr. Dillon Thurough. Now her mission is two-fold: Recover the treasure and help Dillon break out of his routine. Dillon Thurough hates surprises. As one of the Grand Hotel's assistant managers, he has a one-, five-, and ten-year plan, and the free-spirited Ms. Mikkelson doesn't fit into any of them. Yet somehow, her ways are getting to him. As they work together to follow the antiquated clues, could Aimee and Dillon also be following the Lord's map to romance?