We are at the point in construction where it is time for us to start contributing to the process (more than just financially) to keep costs down.  I have three rooms to paint, numerous doors to paint, furniture to move, 5 or so pieces of furniture to refinish, shades/curtains to buy and hang, closets to build, oh and so much more!  Then there is Thanksgivng and, dare I say, CHRISTMAS on the horizon!  This is my favorite season, and I want to savor it somehow in the mist of all of this change.  I want my children to remember Christmas season 2009 as a great year, not the year mom went crazy. LOL! 

So to create balance, this is officially our last day of highly structured and planned school for this season in our lives.  We will still school, but in a lighter, less structured way.  The plan is to do reading, math, and tea time each day and have two goals for the week. Notice ~ I can't help but have to have a plan.  I really lack the unschooling bone, even though I wish I had it ....  The rest of the time, the kids will be learning skills in painting, weeding out toys, cleaning, playing peacefully and independently (still a challenge around here for some), and continuing to practice flexibility. 

On top of the basics mentioned earlier, the two goals for next week are to make an Arctic mural and do another outdoor challenge.  We will be studying the arctic and arctic life for the month of November.

I leave you with this picture of the kiddos!  Our outdoor challenge last week was to find squirrels and study them.  We could not find a single squirrel, but we did have fun climbing trees.

Blessings,

Dawn

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Posted by LeslieN

You are smart to take some time off. I probably should do that, but don't feel that I can with a high schooler. I hope your projects go well. I think having a plan is a great idea too!

I answered your question about science experiments in on my blog. I hope it's helpful. I'd be happy to share ideas with you on any of the lessons too.

Hugs,
Leslie

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Posted by weareqf

Just catching up on your blog. You are just so blessedly busy!! The house is coming along so nicely--I'm trying hard not to be envious!! :-)

Our family has been to Myrtle Beach a couple of times and loved it. If we get to go again I will be sure that we get to go to Ripley's Aquarium too!! That looks way too cool!!

Anyway, just wanted to say "Hi!!"
Blessings!
Kris

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Posted by lahbluebonnet

It's crazy to try to remodel during the holidays...I know! Every remodel my dh ever did was at this time of year...the shed outback, the tv cabinet in the niche, the kitchen, the masterbathroom, the schoolroom...I know you'll enjoy the results though!
It's a good thing you are cutting back on school. I couldn't really do that since my kids are in college prep classes.
I think all your squirrels are here! They are crazy here!
Blessings,
Laurie

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