True Nobility

by Edgar Guest

Who does his task from day to day

And meets whatever comes hi way,

Believing god has willed it so,

Has found real greatness here below.

Who guards his post, no matter where,

Believing God must need him there,

although but lowly toil it be,

Has risen to nobility.

For great and low there's but one test,

'Tis that each man shall do his best.

Who works with all the stength he can

Shall never die in debt to man.

DH is participating in a men's group called Raising a Modern Day Knight to help him/ us prepare our boys for Christian manhood.  When I was reading Trivium Academy's blog earlier, Jessica posted this poem that she's using as a theme for her school year.  I thought it was a fab idea, and decided to use it as well to meet our family's needs (Thanks Jessica!).S o, I've put together a "contract" of sorts to discuss with Ben on Monday, August 20, our first "official" day of 3rd grade:

Ben’s 3rd Grade Year

July 2007-June 2008

I will:

1. Work diligently;

2. Put forth my best effort;

3. Be willing to try new things without grumbling, arguing, and complaining;

4. Show trust and honesty to my parents; and

5. Remember to ask for help.

 _________________________________

I will:

                1. be prepared to teach Ben his lessons;

                2. be patient, gentle and kind;

                3. promise to have fun, laugh, and tickle Ben whenever he needs it .

 ___________________________________

As you can see, we both have some character issues to work on.    (Whoever said homeschooling is "only" education for the child?  I find that I am learning just as much about myself as the children are learning about God's creation!) 

Finally, Jessica and another wonderful hsing mom on the Well Trained Mind   boards posted a planning grid.  I did one of these for 2nd grade, and found it hugely helpful for getting the "big picture" of how we could progress through our studies during the year.  It ended up not being very accurate because we moved during the middle of the school year, so much of what I'd planned to do didn't get done when I'd wanted it to.  Anyway, I have made a 3rd grade grid, and it seems much more doable.  I've planned in frequent "breaks" and -- praise God! -- our History studies will fit into the plan and new "school year-round" plan easily!  Woo-hoo!

[Unfortunately, I can't figure out how to post this on the blog.  But, trust me, it is in color, looks good, makes sense and is such a help!]