just a quick note.... I have three new entries.  One about login to HSB if you are still having problems, one about note taking any new clients until Feb/Mar, and this one.

A short time back, I posted a public apology because I have not been tending to my emails as often as I should.

I guess that this entry is about the why behind my not taking new clients right now.

Those of you who know me, know that I analyse things.  I have noticed a pattern emerge on many Yahoo groups that I subscribe over the years.  There seems to be several times during the years that many ladies post similar issues.  I might be mis-remembering the order, but here is my insight....

In April, everyone is concerned about which curriculum to choose.  They stress over which is better than others and if they are making the correct choices or they are overwhelmed by all of the choices.

In August, many get stressed about money or stressed about buying the wrong books for the year.

In Dec and Jan, many ladies think that they just aren't doing enough to teach their children.  Many start to question the decision to homeschool and talk about enrolling their children in public school.  Several are just at wits end with overscheduled field trips and lack of time.  The theme is ladies wanting to give up. 

If you see this happening on one of your groups, please let the ladies know that these feelings are not limited to their family.  Together, we can support each other and know that these fellings are common.  I am not asking you to minimize the effect that these feelings have on each of us but to understand that it is part of home schooling.  Most of us feel that we can do more.  We want the very best for our children or we would not have made the decisions that we have made.  It is easier to deal with feelings if you understand that you aren't the only one feeling them.

So with that said...  I too am dealing with the Dec/Jan plague.

I feel drained of all energy.  I feel like I am not doing enough teaching.  I feel lost in my own home.  I feel no creativity because I feel no motivation.  I feel an overwhelming compulsioin to clean my home.  I feel like an empty shell.

I understand that it is just this time of year.  The Holidays are filled with energy intensive activity that leave families with little left for self reflection and quiet time.  I feel like crawling into a hole and waiting for Spring.  Maybe, just maybe, I am a tulip! 

So at this time of the year, I am going to not accept any new clients.  I am going to be selfish with my energy and play with my children.

I will contact anyone who has already contacted me about designs.  I plan on working until early January, but I currently have enough projects to fill that time span.  January however is going to be spent working on projects that are in serious need of attention.

Sorry to have such a long post.  Please... if you are also suffering from Dec/Jan plague, please post a comment.  Maybe we could all pray for each other?  Maybe we can share that this is normal / common.