Monday, August 16, 2010

Start to the School Year

It's been an interesting school year so far.  It's August and we've already started.  I am homeschooling all three of my children: Wyatt (14-freshman), Tatum (6-1st grade), and Dallas (2-preschool).  We started three weeks early because we will be going on vacation for three weeks in September.  Those three weeks have to come from somewhere.  So, either take next summer break three weeks late or start school early.  Hesitant as they were, they agreed and we started.

The start to the school year has been quite peaceful and smooth.  Wyatt is a joy to teach.  He is easy and is a very good learner.  At this point, he is also mainly self-taught.  Occasionally, he will need help with something (usually in Algebra).  Tatum has been my surprise.  I knew she was smart.  She's so intelligent.  But, she is also very excitable and high-energy.  She has been a joy to teach.  She is eager and very studious.  Though she can't hardly stay in her seat, she gets a lot of work done very quickly.  Lastly, my little angel, "D".  He is such a "third child".  He just goes with the flow.  Some days I give him lots to do and he loves it (crayons, peg boards, puzzles) and some days he just lays on the kitchen floor next to the dining table (aka school) playing with his toys.

It's hard to see the summer go.  I love swimming, time-off, and the sun.  I love not having an "agenda" with my kids.  We just hang out and see where the day takes us.  How I will miss summer!  School does offer many positive points.  We are more intentional and diligent with our time.  Our schedule actually lightens up (must make time for school now) and we spend more time at home together.  We will go on field trips.  We will visit the library.  We eat all three meals together.

This year I am adding more to my plate.  I accepted an invitation to take over my friends PE program.  There are about 60 students from 24 families.  It will be a great group of kids.  Once in the swing of things, I'm sure the program will run smoothly.  It has taken a lot of time putting the new school year together.  Some other things I'm doing are: church bible study (Precepts) on John, Marriage on the Rock (marriage small group study), BSF (Isaiah).  So, we'll see how that all pans out and if I'm crazy for attempting it.

I have a great feeling about this year. I have a peace and feel so blessed.