Jul 11, 2007

I'm Scared to Life!

Okay all you friends out there. I have made my decision and this is the first time I am saying it outloud. I AM HOMESCHOOLING THIS YEAR!!! Call me crazy since I finally have freedom to be alone all day and write, do bible studies, get in shape, have date days with the hubby, visit with friends, shop, and most importantly BLOG(hee hee). I am scared beyond measure, but I know that God has not given me a spirit of fear. Not only have I met tons of women in Victoria who homeschool, I happen to be a certified teacher(although I haven't taught for over 10 years). My kids can all read well which will help tons, and I won't have to worry about which neighborhood to live in in Victoria(when we sell our home here), or how they will cope from going to a private Christian school to a public. I had already made up my mind about Ashley who will be entering the 8th grade, but I was unsure about Seth(5th) and Annie(2nd). I think my decision was based more than anything on the fact that they asked to be homeschooled.

Now, I am completely starting from square one on this, and I would love any advice you veteran homeschool moms may have for me. If you have a ton of info to share, just email me at your convenience, but otherwise leave a comment. I am ordering this and this to get my juices flowing. I have also decided for Ashley I will most likely go with the curriculum she would be using at her old school for 8th if its not too expensive.

I just realized the other day that I only have 5 more years with my sweet Ashley before she leaves for college and then it will only be a matter of time before the other two follow. It's scary for sure, but I think I will that fear will drive me to a life of adventure and knowledge that I am ready to embrace.

12 comments:

Padre Reeds said...

I love the idea. You'll do well. Realize you're far more capable and qualified to teach the kids than public teachers. Just run the Mozisek Academy old plantation style. Start each morning with a sound thrashing with a snappy 'switch' from the old willow tree before studies begin to keep morale high!

Ruth said...

I am not a homeschooler, but I applaud your decision. We have a great Christian school here that I teach at, but without it, I would be doing the same thing. I pray this year will be full of unexcpected blessings for you all (and expected ones, too)!

Jenny said...

Let me start off with saying congratulations on your decision! The best advice I can give you is this: since you know lots of homeschoolers, try to get a "meeting of the minds" together. The best thing that ever happened to me was having an Q&A session over lunch with moms who have been homeschooling. You can find out what curriculums are out there, where they buy them, and what your state requires you to report to whom. You can also find out what parts of a subject are just not necessary to buy, which will save you money. If I have more time, I will email you more ideas, or my personal experiences with homeschooling.

Linda said...

Good for you Susie. I know the Lord is going to bless this decision. My DIL has homeschooled for years and loves it. I'm sure you'll get lots of help with this, but if not let me know and I'll pick her brain for you!!
I'm excited for all of you.

Lori - Queen of Dirty Laundry said...

This is my first time commenting here, but just wanted to let you know that you're not alone. This is my first year homeschooling my 2nd grader, and I'm scared and excited all at the same time!

I'm looking forward to following up on your journey!

DeeDee said...

You go, Girl! I'm proud of you! You'll be awesome and I can't wait to hear the good reports.

Kelly said...

Yay for you! I understand your feeling about the time slipping away... what a blessing to be able to spend the days with your kids, sharing and shaping in the ways God directs you. Congratulations!

Donnetta said...

You'll be great!!

Keep in mind... God never calls us to something (regardless of how crazy it may seem) without promising to walk before us paving the way and to provide strength for each next step!!!

Enjoy the time with your children. There will be many memories to cherish I'm sure!!!

Susan said...

I'm sure with all the terrific home schoolers here in Blogland you'll find lots of help.

Click on "jennifer"on my link and leave her a comment asking for help. She is a dedicated home schooler of teenagers who has been at it for years. I have utmost respect for her and know she will be glad to help you. Tell her Susan sent you!!!!
Susan

DA Wagners said...

I homeschool both my nieces in English. I absolutely love it! They are in 5th and 6th grade this coming year, and this year will be our third year together. I would say just be consistent, organized and have high expectations. They might not meet the set expectations, but they'll achieve more than if your expectations were lower. Also, use an assortment of curriculum, and have your kids do at least an hour of quiet alone reading time. This way you'll get somewhat of a break. I'm totally impressed by you. I'll be praying for you.

Momma Roar said...

You'll do great!! Just keep the Lord as your guide - and remember, there will be frustrating times (many of them) but the Lord will lead you.
Now, I'm only homeschooling my oldest - who is only 5, so we aren't real far into this either.
But, something that has been helpful to me was to get on some yahoo email groups of the different homeschool curriculums I was interested in and just lurk. We are using the Weaver Curriculum.
As I'm planning for this upcoming year, a dear friend recommended to me to just start with one or two subjects and then add another one each week - just to get the hang of it and not totally frustrate myself. I thought it was a good piece of advice and wanted to pass it along!
If you ever have any questions, feel free to ask!
Leigh Ann

Shawna said...

No question you'll do a great job. It's obvious you love actually being with your children. I homeschooled my oldest during the 7th grade and I loved the time I got to spend with him.