First Day - Sept. 8, 2009

I have been planning all summer, but very heavily the last month for this day. I is hard to believe it is finally here. The summer went very quickly. But with the birth of our 4th child, Emma, in July, I can see why. Thankfully, God has enabled Emma to adjust quickly as she started sleeping through the night very early. This has helped us recover from the newborn chaos that typically befalls our home with each new child. Anyway, on paper I have everything set and ready for this week, but the anxiousness of the undertaking of homeschooling has set in and I don't really feel all that prepared. I am told that is typical though, so I'm sure within a few weeks I'll be fine.

We have a few new things to look forward to this year. First, we have a very detailed schedule to guide us through the day. I took my scheduling ideas from the Maxwell family at www.titus2.com I have found the Managers of Their Homes book to be very helpful. Hopefully, we will have the discipline to stay on schedule. Second, the children have been assigned chores to do throughout the day. Some are as simple as getting dressed and brushing teeth, but others include sweeping and making their beds. The boys are pretty good at making their beds at age 3 and 5 already. Kayla gets some help with her chores but she likes to do what her brothers do and she likes to help Mommy. Plus, we figure the earlier we get them used to the idea of doing work around the house, the more likely they are to stick with it. We'll see though. Another new item is that I have a real curriculum for Timothy and Matthew. Timothy is using the Abeka K5 Kindergarten program, while Matthew is using the Alpha Omega Horizons preschool program. I have included some activity time for Kayla in our day as well. Finally, we will be attending a co-op on Mondays. Timothy and Matthew are in the same classes: Joyful Gym, Show and Tell, and Discovery Zone. Kayla and Emma will be in the Nursery probally with me. I am excited at the opportunity we have to fellowship with other Christian Families.

All and all, I am praying God really takes over this year and gives me that which I need to educate my children in His ways. I look forward to what this year will bring and expect to see a lot of growth and learning take place for all members of the family including my husband and myself. Hopefully, I will have the discipline to blog our happenings to save for future generations.