Friday, April 5, 2013

homeschooling: taking the plunge, again.


I bought a few books last week.  Homeschooling books - for the 2013-14 school year.  I guess we're in!

The fact is, although we take it a year at a time, we still feel called to this homeschooling thing.  I feel that it's where God has us right now, so that's what we're doing.  All the same, when I start making curriculum purchases...that's when I sort of pause and say "Alright...another year."

And it's good.   I feel that although this past school year (not that we're finished with it yet) has been challenging, the slight changes we made at the beginning have worked well.   This year has been busy but filled with togetherness (usually good togetherness!) and a lot of reading.  We've learned about the Civil War and the Middle Ages.  We're exploring the solar system, fractions and decimals.  And we have mixed in a lot of play dates for the younger crowd as well; I'm learning that assigning my older kids a whole morning's worth of individual work can be excellent for everyone's morale.

I never thought I would be in this place: a homeschooling mother of five.  Never, ever ever.  The Lord certainly does have some surprises up His sleeve.  And you know what?  I think it's a testament to what He can do through a very, very weak- but willing - vessel.

I've seen progress this past year, and while we all have a lot of room to grow, I am greatly encouraged.

That being said, we're working our tails off to try to finish everything within the next few months.  I am not sure yet, but I think we might actually take an extended summer break this year - a first!  My kids aren't the only ones who like the sound of that...

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm encouraged by this. Andrew and I are contemplating homeschooling our children. I have reservations sometimes because it's a lot of work for the teacher, but I see a huge value in it. I'd love to chat sometime about your experiences!
-Tabby

Mindy said...

That's so great, Tabby! We will definitely have to talk one of these days. :)

Jill Foley said...

I've had the urge to start buying next year's books, but haven't yet. I have always said we are taking it year by year, but lately I've felt a heart change - like I'm in this for the long haul.

I'm reading a great book right now - Educating the WholeHearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson. It's been very encouraging in helping me understand that the decision to homeschool is a lifestyle and an opportunity to shape my children's hearts for Christ.

Our paths haven't crossed much these past couple months, but know I'm still praying for you as you continue to walk this journey!