Every year I seem to be getting further behind in my lesson planning and curriculum ordering.  It used to be that by March or April I was pouring over catelogs and websites.  In the last few years it seems this has gotten later and later, as our family has grown and our children have gotten busier.  Here it is August and I have not finished planning or shopping.

As I have sorted through shelves and piles of books deciding which to pull out for this year, I was struck with how much excess we have.  Materials that I bought and didn't really work for the intended child, or I just found something better.  Some were gifted to us, or found on clearance so bought ahead for a future child.  I think I have decided to try and utilize as much of those extras as I can this year, rather than buying all new.  I am forever trying to scale down and declutter, so this will be a step in the right direction by not bringing in yet more books.  Also, we are feeling the crunch on the economy as much as everyone else, so saving a little on school supplies can't hurt. 

I will be changing the direction of our history studies, focusing on US history rather than Story of the World year 4.  I have enough math materials to get us through at least part of the year.  I have language arts programs that we have never even used.  I do think I will have to purchase a science book (physics).  I will be sure to post as I firm up the details of this years curriculum and the costs involved.