It’s that time of year, when we are all beginning to think about school once again.
I typically start mid—August, because we always take the first two weeks of September as a family vacation. I always appreciated having two weeks of school under my belt before we left for several reasons:
—First, I didn’t feel “behind” when we returned from vacation because I had already completed those first two weeks of school in August. Having the first two weeks behind me gave me a sense of peace — sort of an, “all is right with the world” kind of feeling. I was relaxed and could see our vacation as part of school rather than an interruption to school. It allowed me to leave those “should” feelings behind.
—Second, inevitably my “perfect” schedule or “ideal” curriculum wasn’t all that perfect or ideal in some ways. Having completed those first two weeks I was able to see what areas would need tweaking so I could pray and discuss potential problem areas with Dan during our driving days and be prepared to make the necessary changes when we returned.
This year we have several changes that I’m still adjusting to.
—First, all of our children have officially graduated from high school. Wow, just saying that still gives me sort of a sinking feeling in my stomach. I’ve had to face leaving an era of my life behind. This summer I haven’t spent endless hours looking at curriculum and making lesson plans — a welcomed change, but a bittersweet one.
—Second, we aren’t beginning school mid—August. That’s right, we’re still on our summer schedule — which is much too busy, as usual.
—Third, for the first time ever, we aren’t taking a family vacation during the first two weeks of September. Change is never easy — at least not for me— so I hope this won’t happen again real soon. But everyone is growing up and it’s bound to happen again, and much sooner that I would like.
Anyway, this year we are taking separate boys’/girls’ or men’s/women’s vacations — it is still challenging for me to realize everyone in our house is an adult.
The guys are heading to Quetico for two weeks of wilderness camping. They will have a canoe and whatever else they can carry on their backs — tents, sleeping bags, and lots of food!
We girls are going to Louisville, KY to spend Labor Day with our friends before heading to Gatlinburg, TN to spend ten days in a cabin near the Smokey Mountains. We plan to do lots of shopping and even more writing.
When we return all my adult children will return to their studies — some of which I’ve helped to arrange and set up, but I will be doing very little teaching — mostly just mentoring. I’m looking forward to my new role and to all the Lord has in store for us as we move on into home college.
Meanwhile, here are a couple of free books you will want to add to your library:
Available until August 14th:
The Old Schoolhouse is offering a free E-Book. I’ve spent this rainy afternoon curled up with this one and you won’t want to miss one. It’s time to get organized and ready to start another school year. We’ve arranged for a free 65 page E-Book (a $14.95 value E-Homeschooling: Embracing the E-Book Revolution, published by The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine. As you review your goals for the school year, plan lessons, and search for additional learning materials, you’ll want to check out the information and advice on E-Books. In addition to organizing your school, now is the time many families organize around the house.
Molly Green shares a wealth of organization tips and ideas, as well as frugal living advice, in her August Molly’s Money-Saving Digest—Organization for Busy Families—check it out here.
Finding Joy in the Journey,
I would love to have the opportunity to keep in touch with you. Please sign up to be notified of new entries and to receive my Free E-zine. (Your address will not be shared)
Phyllis Sather
Proclaiming God’s Faithfulness at:
http://www.Phyllis-Sather.com
© 2009 Phyllis Sather
All rights reserved
Contact me at: Phyllis@Phyllis-Sather.com
You are so welcome Julie. Thanks for stopping by. Phyllis
I just wanted to say thank you for the free ebooks. I really appreciate them!