Today was one of those days. Some really bad parts. But once we got through them, I realize, they weren't really that bad.
Today was day 3 of being back to homeschooling. Now, homeschooling has been an interesting journey for me. Because I was homeschooled I went into homeschooling the way most people go into parenting or marriage. I was soooo gonna be the best homeschooler ever!
Yeah. not.
And in some ways, my little man (who's not so little anymore really) threw me off some. He wasn't interested in learning. In fact, he hated sitting still. But the 5-10 minutes that we would work on things he always learned well and very fast. But as he's gotten older the expectations have gotten greater and we must sit and learn. And he's risen to the occasion too, and he can sit longer now too. This year he's really doing amazing! But I'm not. And reality hits.
It's me. I'm the weak link. And that really stinks.
I need to make some changes, which in one sense that whole idea makes my head spin. I feel like all I do is change! The person I was when I started on this path is very different from the person I am now. Which, is a great comfort that I have come along some. But it's discouraging in the sense that I feel like I'm looking at a moving target.
So I whined and complained to Larry. Part of him is very logical about it all. "Ok, so send the kids to school then." But I know that it wouldn't be that easy. Not that I think school is bad, it's just not what I feel is best for my kids right now. Each year I re-evaluate. But right now I'm on this path for this year and I want to make the most of it.
If I'm honest with myself. I'd need to make these changes regardless of homeschooling or not. Things like routine and planning. I'm a go with the flow girl, which can be good and I love being able to do that sometimes. But right now I need more structure to survive!
So. I made up a list. I love lists. I'm great at breaking them, but I love them all the same. I made a list what what we need to get done in the day, how long I want to take to do it and things that Emily and Nathan can do while I'm trying to get the other things done!! That last one is probably the most important. Seriously, they can be terrorists. Haha! I feel like at times I'm like a top that's spinning and spinning... accomplishing nothing. And every time I try to catch my breath one of the kids run up and get the top going again! I'm gonna try to multitask less... maybe get more done?
So what works for you?
Hey, For some reason I noticed your blogsite on my fav's and thought I would check it.
ReplyDeleteHope those lovely little 'terrorists' as you call them - not me - are happy as ever! Kids really are the best at derailing whatever it is you have in mind, aren't they? However, I bet you are doing a great job homeschooling. You know that whatever they do or accomplish academically really makes no difference in the longrun, it's all the attitude. And your love and patience. Oh yes, some of the mechanics are good to learn, but they do learn that with very little prompting and when they are older, and can apply themselves, and realize that they have to. They just do it then, and it seems magical and mysterious, especially when you have spent so much of your life trying to get them to do it, and I guess it is. So - you're doing great and your love is really all they need to become the best learners and livers...(couldn't resist)
love you!
aw, thanks!! It's nice to hear from you! I need to write another post again soon.. I've been procrastinating, if you can procrastinate at blogging... hmmmm
ReplyDeleteWhat do I do? I think I'm that top too - just spinning. Some days I also write lists and make plans...but some days I throw in the towel and realize that the bigger picture is great moments with our kids, not making them into the next Einstein. That slowing down can be good. I know I need to work on more order and structure in my life but I wrestle with wondering, if God made me this way (spontaneous, creative) does he really want me to change?
ReplyDelete