I am so excited to announce that our March book club will be Anne of Green Gables!! I think we are probably all a little tired of dreary weather. We can all use Anne Shirley’s sunny outlook on life. I can’t wait to read this with you! It has been SO long since I picked this one up. I hope that you will join and read along!
“It’s been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will.”
I have been getting a lot of questions about homeschooling recently, and I thought I would answer them here.
What grades are you children in?
I have three daughters. They are in K4, 2nd grade, and 4th grade.
What curriculum do you use?
We use Abeka Academy. We started using it in 2017 and did parent-led that year. I was very overwhelmed with a big move, losing a very close family member, and trying to keep up with life. So, the next year we did academy. It was a game-changer. I honestly wanted to quit homeschooling until we made the switch. With academy, you get DVDs or can stream the videos online. This makes the parent more of a facilitator. There is still a lot of work for the parent, but it is much more manageable.
What other curricula have you tried?
We started out with Horizon’s. The next year, I tried Heart of Dakota. The following year, we did LIFEPAC. They were fine, but not a good fit for our family. We also visited a Classical Conversations group in Oklahoma in 2017 and seriously considered that switch before finding Abeka.
What about college?
There are MANY homeschool curriculums that are accredited. Your child will have records just like if they were going to public or private school, and be able to send them to any college that they apply to. (Abeka is one of them.)
What about socialization?
Every homeschooling parent’s eyes just rolled. Did you hear it? Perhaps MANY years ago this may have been a concern. These days, there are so many groups that your child can be a part of. There are homeschooling groups that throw dances and parties. Also, don’t you remember your teachers telling you “We aren’t at school to socialize?” My children are comfortable speaking to people of all ages. There is the normal shyness, but overall they are very well adjusted and comfortable making friends. I’m not worried at all.
Are you part of a co-op?
No. We have moved MANY times over the past 4 years. I did just learn about a local co-op that I am looking into joining next year.
Do I have to know everything to teach my children?
No! You can learn along with your child. Obviously, you will want to go over the lessons in advance so that you can be able to help your child when they are doing something. Abeka has a support line that you can call if you need additional help. There are also facebook groups for each grade level that offer a ton of support and encouragement. It’s such a misconception when parents think they aren’t smart enough to teach their children. You can do it!
How long is your school day?
We typically start our day around 8 AM and are done by 3. My children take 10 minute breaks after completing two subjects. This has helped them stay focused so much better. There is also an hour break for lunch and “recess” to help them reset and be ready to finish strong.
Were you homeschooled?
I was not. I went to public school until I graduated. I loved those years, and didn’t have a bad experience with it at all.
Why do you homeschool?
Originally, I started because we lived in one of the most unsafe places in the country. I wanted to know that my babies were safe. I did a lot of praying and ultimately feel that God has called us to this. I love that I got to be the one to see my daughters read their first word. I’ve been involved every step of the way. I also believe that schools are trying to force kids into a box. If they don’t learn this one specific way, it’s just too bad for them. I get to help them where needed. I can adjust and teach something a different way if they are struggling to understand. Each year, I stop and pray about whether we are going to continue. Each year, it has been a yes.
Is your family supportive?
Not always. Especially not at first, but I think that is because they didn’t understand it. None of us had experience with homeschooling, so no one knew what it was going to look like. We still have family that doesn’t get it, and like to give quizzes over holiday meals. That is really frustrating. I feel a lot more supported now than I did when we first began, and I’m really grateful for that. It’s hard to be on an island.
Where do you homeschool?
Currently, we have a room with an old kitchen table set up. The bigger girls share this table. The youngest has a desk that sits next to my desk in the office. We have homeschooled around the kitchen table in the past, and it all works great. You can see a tour of an old setup here.
How can you save money?
Many parents buy used textbooks– which can be purchased in various facebook groups or on ebay. Once you have one child in that grade, it’s easy to save those textbooks for the next child. Dollar Tree has a lot of great flashcards and workbooks. I’m always looking at the clearance racks of stores for school supplies that we will need.
Do you have to register with the state to homeschool?
It depends on your state. Some states require that you send a letter with intent to homeschool. The parents have to send in reports at the end of each school year. Some states require you to send your intent to homeschool, and thats all. Other states are completely hands off, and even registering as a homeschooling family is optional. Make sure you check the laws of your particular state. You are considered a private school when homeschooling, and you want to be sure to have everything done properly.
If there are any questions that I didn’t answer, please let me know! I have loved our homeschooling journey. Yes, there are days that I just want to quit because it would be easier to send them to school. But, the benefits far outweigh any of the passing frustrations! I certainly don’t consider myself an expert, but I have been homeschooling since 2014 and have some experience under my belt.
We had a pretty mellow Valentine’s Day. I did silly thinks like dye milk pink for breakfast. I shaped the girls’ macaroni and cheese into hearts on their plates. They were so sweet and made every person in the family hand-made cards. Something that they did all on their own– no help or encouragement to do so! I’m so proud of the way they love each other.
This year, we didn’t get the kids any candy. None at all. They are always given so much by grandparents and their teachers at church that we are drowning in it. I try to avoid feeding them sugar because I know how harmful it is. We do have treats, but they are just that– a treat. I want to encourage you to read this and see why it’s important for me– especially during this season of illness. Food is medicine (or poison). Moving on.
The girls had a slumber party with Scott’s mom on Friday night. That allowed us to go out for Valentine’s Day for the first time in… I don’t even know. A long time. We ate dinner at a local Italian restaurant, and then we hit up our friend’s board game cafe and played games for a few hours. (I also spilled a massive coffee all over myself and every nearby surface. Winning.) Will you do me a favor and “like” his FB page if you are on there? He’s seriously such an awesome guy and I love what he is doing for the community.. He also made me a new drink without being asked and didn’t charge me for it. GO if you are close by!
On Saturday, we went to another local book store and I drooled over their beautiful books. This was the first Saturday that Scott and I have both had off in several months! I think since we moved into this house… so we soaked up every minute.
We also went to TJ Maxx, where we found this farm-to-table play kitchen for an absurd clearance price. I was sure it was going to be broken inside or something. I couldn’t pass it up– and I usually am good at that. We built it before going to pick up the kids. We couldn’t wait for them to get home and see it!
It came with the pots, veggies, “wood” baskets, and cutting board! They have played with it every chance they get. I love that the colors blend in wonderfully with our home while still providing a ton of fun. We used to have this play kitchen and loved it also. It got used and abused by three toddlers and we sold it before moving to Oklahoma– knowing that it wouldn’t survive such a big move.
We had such a fun and relaxing weekend. I always hate when they end. I hope that you felt loved. Even if you don’t have a “special someone”, you have a father in heaven who loves you more than any human ever can.
Can you believe that February is over half-way gone?! Don’t forget to read The Magnola Story for our book club!
If money weren’t an option, my wardrobe would be entirely made up of J. Crew clothing. It’s all classic with a twist. Plus, it’s all so well made. My favorite! I do have J. Crew pieces in my closet because I wait for good sales. Currently, if you use the code WEEKEND, you get an extra 50% off sale prices/ 30% off other items.
I thought I’d share some of my favorites with you! I know I don’t usually do clothing posts. But, I love clothes. I’ve always been afraid of being judged for loving clothes and putting outfits together. But, this is me. I think clothes are fun and share so much of our personality and mood.
Cocoon coat— this is my DREAM pick! I wish I could afford it. At half off, its only $155 and will last you forever!
Perfect Fit T-Shirt — These are great for layering under a blazer, cardigan, or to wear alone! $10-$15 after sale.
Sophie Sweater Blazer— So comfortable. So perfect for dressing up or down.
Ribbed Beanie with pom— I love a good beanie. If you have to wear a hat all winter, make it a cute one!
Chunky turtleneck sweater— This is such a classic. It will never go out of style, and it will last forever and ever. I am a huge fan of RESPONSIBLE purchases.
Wide Leg Frankie Pant— I LOVE these dress pants.
Pink headband— I have this in black and love it. I love that headbands are back in style. They are so fun– and help hide day 3 dirty hair.
Dress— Date night?! Yes, please.
Swimsuit— so cute! Only $15 and fully stocked!!! There are tons of swimsuits included in this sale– so look around if this one isn’t your thing.
Grey Hat— SO CUTE!
Sorel Boots— such a great price for some of the best boots out there. These are super cute.
Floral skirt— Easter is coming. This would be so cute for easter. Paired with the basic tee from above and you’ve got a fun casual outfit.
Gold cuff— simple and pretty
There are PAGES of clearance for men, women, and children. Check it all out here, and don’t forget to use the code WEEKEND when you check out!!
I am so grateful for the reprieve of warm weather in the midst of a gross winter. We take advantage of the change each time. The sidewalk chalk comes out of storage. Bikes, scooters, and helmets are scattered about.
The kids’ favorite place to be is by these massive pine trees They kept trying to climb them with no luck. But, they sure had fun trying. The sunshine was glorious. I didn’t think we would ever see the sun again.
Of course, it has snowed and iced many times since then. But, two days of warmth certainly helped boost our moods to get through more yucky weather. We try to focus on the good instead of feeling grumpy about the weather. Grumpiness doesn’t change anything. In fact, it is just contagious and makes everyone else that you encounter grumpy.
Isn’t that the truth for life? Being grumpy and having a bad attitude doesn’t change a thing. Some days, it is hard to not be grumpy and have a bad day. I understand that. But, a positive attitude can be a game changer. Looking for the good in the midst of the hard is what gets me through the hard days.
The weather is cold and dreary again. Blue skies will return again. We will be okay. We will play in the cold and play in the sun. We are going to enjoy each day. They are ALL a gift.
Side note– Have you heard of the book No Such Thing as Bad Weather ? It’s one that I really want to read. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you have read it.
I’ve been trying to wrap my mind around the beautiful words and ideas in this book. It was the perfect way to start off the new year– full of inspiration for how to make our homes special and full of love and Jesus for our families.
As I’ve said before, I’ve always loved “home design” and creating beautiful spaces. But, I always thought it was a bad thing to want my house to be pretty and cozy. I had never before thought of God DESIGNING the earth– not REALLY thought about it. To think about the beautiful garden that he created for Adam and Eve to live in. How could we ever look around at the beauty around us and not believe that God loves beauty. The trees are beautiful. The veins on a leaf are such a beautiful design. Look closely at a flower. It’s all beautiful, and it was all crafted by the hand of God!
I think that my favorite quote was: “When someone once asked me just what it was that my parents did that made me believe in God, without even thinking I said, ‘I think it was French toast on Sunday mornings and coffee and Celtic music and discussions and candlelight on the evenings . . .’ Because in those moments I tasted and saw the goodness of God in a way I couldn’t ignore.” – Sarah
Wow. If I can cultivate a home culture that makes it so my children can’t help but believe that God is real… it’s just incredible to think about. If my home can feel so inviting and people know that they are welcome here, then I’ve done something right.
“If you want your children to grow up loving what is true, beautiful, and good, your whole home should reflect that wholeness.” Sarah. I want my home to reflect the goodness of God. I want it to be a quiet place where we can meet God in prayer and study scripture. I want it to be the place where we feel less busy and overwhelmed. This should be the place where we can “think on these things”.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
This book left me feeling so inspired and encouraged to stay the course with my children. Our home life is going to point them to Jesus or make them turn away. It’s not all about beautiful THINGS. Our attitudes, traditions, etc. should share the love of God.
Since the book is divided into two parts– the second being focused on each month of the year– I plan to re-read each month. Hopefully it will keep me inspired, and possibly give me some ideas if I feel “stuck”.
Now, it is your turn! If you read the book with us, or have read it in the past, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
What was your favorite quote or passage? Why?
How did this book make you feel?
Do you agree or disagree with the main focus of the book?
What aspects of this story can you relate to?
If you haven’t already read The Life Giving Home, I can’t recommend it enough! Also, don’t forget about February’s book The Magnolia Story!
My Four Arrows 