Well, it's that time of year.  Encouraging words await me and I can just smell all the new material waiting for me in the exhibition room at the conference.  I can almost sense the tug on my purse strings.  However, I snap back to reality with that next sip of java and focus on what  I've prepared and what yet needs to be done.

     I've already sat down with my hear husband to clarify our vision for our family and our educational and character training goals.  I have a plan and know what I absolutely need and what is on my wish list.  Most important I have a budget!  At this time of year I love to pick up or at least scout out this year's little extras. I may even find some birthday gifts or things to use for our units.  So I'll keep my eye out for those.  I ALWAYS plan to bring home at least one encouraging resource just for me.  A homeschool devotional, support book or such.

     I've carefully gone over the proposed schedule of speakers and chosen preferences and jotted down questions that come to mind before I even get there. 

What will I pack along?  Well, here's what I usually take:

*water bottle, chewing gum/mints, plan for the upcoming year, shopping list, wish list, fold up rolling cart/bag, sweater (you never can tell if a room's gonna be warm or cold), comfortable shoes, notebook, pens, sense of humour and smile.

     I hope to meet some new homeschooling mama-chums there and eagerly anticipate what God has in store for me to learn, reinforce or discover. Mostly, I come with an open mind and heart.  It's a day or two to chew on my upcoming plans, envisioning the future ideals in a room filled with families who share the same kind of commitment.

Hope to meet you there.