I thought I'd do a different kind of post today.(I am still processing the whole pictures-on-the-blog-thing)  I was asked how I liked Artistic Pursuits and got to thinking about why I choose certain curriculum.  My first year of hs I poured over catalogs and how --to books in a desperate attempt to find the perfect curriculum.  I would get so frustrated with Jeff for not entering into dialog with me on this.  He would shrug and tell me that I was the key to a successful hschool, not purchased curriculum.  Was he kidding?  Life and death hung in the balance here.  Well, I began with sonlight and liked it, mostly.  It was a great curriculum to start with because everything is laid out for you.  You don't even have to visit the library if you don't want to...Well, I used it for 3 years before venturing out on my own.  I have now used SOTW for 2 years.  I like the story format that is used.  I also like the activity book.  I pick and choose my way through this.  It is easy to add Biblical history to this program.  For science I use Apologia's Elementary programs.  I love, love, love these programs.  Jeannie Fulbright is the best! (google her website)   All the boys (and mom, too) look forward to science.   We also use Spelling Workout and Rod and Staff English.  I have used both for 2 years and am confident the boys are getting all they need in that department.  Ok, Artistic Pursuits.  We just started this so my review might change, but right now it seems like a great program.  We bought this with my wacky #2 boy in mind.  He just doesn't think like 'normal' kids.  He is so creative.  This program has the students creating from lesson 1.  They are drawing using real artist tools.  I like this.  No more junky pencils.  The program is also light on parent involvement.  Throughout the books, art prints from American artists are used to show examples of the lessons.  So far, so good with this one.  Last year I used Drawing With Children.  It is also a good book.  Even mom learned a bit about drawing. 

Last evening I was chatting with an aquaintance.  She hschooled for 5 months and gave up.  She wondered how I can keep up with the demands of the 'job'.  Here are my survival strategies:

1.  Know that this is God's will for the family. 

2.  Form good routines (habits) and stick to it.  

3. Know that each child is created as an individual and is to be treated as such.

4. Relax housekeeping expections.

5. Go outside the house as much as possible.

6. Call dear Tammy and laugh my way through the whole adventure.

God bless you all as you travel this road.