Wow, thanks for the wonderful response to last week's column about Homeschooling Conventions.

     For many years I had little kids so I was never able to make it to our state's convention.  There were some other reasons that I didn't pursue going too; I felt like I really didn't need to spend the money, for one.  I was blessed to have our local group's library of homeschooling resources right in my living room and I could listen to my heart's content to all kinds of conference tapes, for another.  Believe me, in those early years of homeschooling I listened, and listened and listened some more!  While I was folding clothes, I listened.  While I was ironing, I listened.  While doing dishes, I listened.  I learned so much!  And it was so enriching and encouraging! 

      If you are unable to go to a convention, there are so many places you can get the encouragement that you need.  First off, I would contact my local group and ask if there are any past conferences on tape available to borrow.  Somebody out there has some you can listen to, I am certain of it!  If you have tapes of past conference speakers, advertise it to your group!  Somebody needs the encouragement and information. 

     Next, get online and look for MP3's of conferences.  I can tell you right now, that if you go to TALKSHOE, you can hear several of the preview chats that were done for the Ultimate Homeschool Expo that you can listen to for free!  You can still even get in on that conference, although it is over, it is still online and will be forever!  But I know that the price is going up real soon, so jump on that.  There is also another online conference coming up by Heart of the Matter.   Be sure to check them out and get in on their good deals. 

      There is really no reason not to get in on some of the wonderful encouragement out there.  Really, ladies, just pray about it and I am convinced that the Lord will lead you to hear JUST the right speaker at the right time to fill your needs. 

     Hang in there, enjoy your Summer with your families and don't get caught up in the downer trap of "I can't do this homeschooling thing any longer.."  You CAN do it, and the Lord will help you to do it just the way YOU need to.  Don't give up, relax and enjoy life, it is all part of the homeschooling journey!

     Here are a few links for you to check out:

 A list here,   an article here,   something interesting to read: Should a Christian attend a secular conference?   and here is a great list too: Homeschool Buyer's Co-op list of conferences. 

 Those ought to give you plenty to do, just in case you were bored.  :)

 Start seeking those conference tapes!

Nancy

p.s., leave me a comment and let me know your favorite speakers and topics, ok?