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Wow! It has been way too long since I updated. I'm glad to see that at least some have stopped by although for those who gave up...I really can't blame you. My lack of writing would certainly have something to do with that :) With the exception of Little K and reading, we have enjoyed a mostly "school free" summer. Sure, we kept learning, but we took a break from the more structured aspects of education. A is doing an online program this year. It provides the organization and structure that I lack, especially while I am finishing up my degree. This way, the curriculum is chosen and broken down...and he doesn't seem to question his grades as much as when I do the grading! Little K is still using the curriculum that I have chosen but I hope to get her reading fluently enough that she can move to the same program her brother is doing. That would free me up to do more freelance writing and to enjoy the many projects around here that we all love...such as training our baby horses! I never thought I would do homeschooling any other way than MY way but I was concerned about my weaknesses leaving holes for the kids. Now, I can be sure there are fewer holes and still have fun with them and do the projects and interests we have without feeling like they are taking away from the core things they need. Not to mention, finishing my degree was taking a toll on all of us when I had lesson plans to do and papers to grade. I still work with A on the lessons and check his papers, but the full responsibility does not solely fall on my shoulders. It is a wonderful balance that is working well for us...I am anxious to see how the school year plays out... So, what have we been doing?? Taking care of our menagerie that now includes 4 horses, 1 grumpy old man pony, 2 wiley goats, 4 hens, a dog and a cat. The kids spent the summer rodeoing and A was a 2x Junior Bareback Champion! We are now back in school and soccer has started. Little K is taking formal horseback riding lessons to improve her balance, coordination and trunk strength. It will also help with some bad habits she has picked up about being too heavy handed with the horses. Her instructor is of the philosophy that less is more when it comes to guidance and discipline. Unfortunately, Little K saw very little of that from the teenage rodeo competitors and has begun to mimic their behavior. Having some time away from that and exposure to a lighter hand will set up a new example that will be better. Little K is still in language therapy but we had to take a break from physical and occupational therapy or she would run out of authorized visits for the year and I just can not afford over $200/visit! We had to choose the area where she is making the most strides and sacrafice those in which she is not. Well, it's good to be back and I am excited about this school year...more updates coming soon! |
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