Good evening! I want to introduce myself to the wonderful group of homeschoolers on the site. My name is Dawn Marie and I live in New York City. I am very blessed to be part of the network of homeschoolers, not only in New York, but as well as the network on the web. As like with most homeschoolers, I have been approached by others who are not familiar with the homeschoolers lifestyle. They do not understand how fulfilling and rewarding being educated at home really is. Many have asked me how do I socialize. What they do not take in consideration is, how often does the average public or private school student graduate with the same friends they had in previous grades or schools? I can say by experience, the socialization in school is not always a positive experience. I had one good friend for the three years I did spend in school. However, when we were Junior High bound, the older crowds seemed to attract her more than her old friends from elementary. As far as I am concerned, the grass really is greener on the other side. Most think being in the school system is the most appropriate setting for a student. I really cannot agree with that philosophy, not only because I have been in both situations long enough to see what has been working best for me and my needs, but also because I have seen what happens to most of my friends who were in the school system, and along with that had low self esteem or learning complexes. There has been so many terrific experiences I have had with home schooling. This, being my last year in high school, I can look back and see the results of being educated at home with my family. I have made more lifelong friends, who have all been home schooled, than all of the students I have met while being in the school system.  My best friend is a active user on this site, she also introduced me to the site. We have been friends just about three years, but it feels like we known each other all of our lives. We call each other sisters often because we have a bond that is really that strong. I am blessed to have a friend (sister) like Annette and I know God does work in mysterious ways. I also met another girl about four years ago who I have the privileged of calling one of my good friends. She just graduated two years ago and is now in college. She was also very passionate about home schooling and excelled in her studies because she was (and still is) zealous for learning.  Nicole is now helping the younger homeschoolers in the area with theatrical plays and writing workshops. Being homeschooled is like an network in itself. It is becoming increasingly popular and for good reason. I am blessed to have a family who cares so tremendously about me that they would give me the best educational experience possible. I am excited to get to know more of you on the blog and I hope home schooling continues to flourish in the homes of many students all over the nation.