Feb. 25, 2006 - Creating the Balance ~ Day 2

Some of my other HSing friends came over this morning to watch more of the Konos Creating the Balance video seminar.  A couple of people couldn't make it ~ but a souple of new people came, so we still had plenty. 

Last time a couple of people had asked to watch more each week, so we could get through it faster.  This week I started another tape, and kept waiting for the "break" like in the first tape ~ and there apparently WASN'T one.  Yikes!  I think we watched almost two hours. 

The new living room arrangement definitely works better for hosting a group of people to watch something on TV.  Much roomier the way it is now.

I found the tape today to be very reassuring for the things that I'm already doing (ie: you don't have to finish every page in the workbook to be "done" ~ if they already KNOW IT ~ then move ON)  She covered co-op tips ~ both on starting one and maintaining one as well as how she and her friends have dealt with different issues in their co-ops.  I found it very informative today, especially in light of the fact that we're pretty much DOING a co-op now with Stephanie, Shawna, Pam & their families! 

She talked a lot about balance.  The balance between details and perspective.  Keeping the details in control (She is very big on making lists ~ as am I, making specific goals for each child) and perspective ~ keeping your priorities straight, keeping Daddy involved in his roles, and "pow-wow" (getting together as Dh & wife, as well as a family)  Maing sure you're spending time with your Dh ~ listening to him talk about his day (not just innundating him with info about YOUR day and the kids)

She talked on the father's role in the "school" ~ Principle, Curriculum Advisor (which can sometimes mean just being your sounding board, sometimes helping make decisions when you can't decide, etc).  His role in the home:  Being the protector from distractions ~ keeping us moms from overextending ourselves ~ from enemies of culture;  Being the provider, the main provider and head of the house;  Being the Spiritual head of the household.

She talked about the balance between structure and flexibility.  Deciding and planning around the time of day when you function best.  Deciding what needs to get done, what you want to get done, etc. 

Some of the specific points she made...

PRACTICE and Teach Godly character.

DO what you CAN. 

Don't set unreasonable goals.

Do NOT compare yourself to others, especially more seasoned homeschoolers/homeschoolers with older children, etc.

And I am so glad that I have people coming over to watch it.  I know I would never get around to watching the whole thing if I just had to do it on my own, and I am getting a lot out of it already!