Classmate

Meet Jim, newest member of our family, and classmate to Halle.  Last week he joined us, well after the perfect plan was laid out, and the most precise selections made for his small beta home, all having been thought out to the dime.  

It was a good math lesson, and it will be an even greater life lesson to see who is the Jim's true care taker.  That was the deal, you see.  We've done the aquarium thing, and by all rights, this Mama was done with the idea.  But my girl convinced me she would lovingly feed and clean Jim's new habitat, and I must say, her fish selection (despite his funny name) is a lovely one. Thanks for the photo op, Jim!

New School (and no uniform!)

This morning, with great excitement, we began our school year at home. For the first time in twelve years, attending school will no longer be about brown bag lunches, or rushing out the door at 7:10.  No more gym clothes, or permission slips, or even goodbye hugs.  And best of all, our new school does not require uniforms :)  In fact, our kiddos started their day in P.J.'s, complete with bed-head.  We began morning lessons at 8:30 after a relaxed paced breakfast as a family (that only happened on Saturday mornings).  So far my students are clicking through, each setting their own pace.  I have enjoyed conversation during their breaks and over lunch. Everyone seems pleased with our new plan.  Time will tell, but for now, it's been a good first day.  

Junior, Class of 2012

8th Grade

6th grade

About to begin...

Tonight as we tucked in, Halle and Ethan, both and independently, informed us they wish it wasn't the beginning of the 6th and 8th grade tomorrow.  

In light of the journey we will begin as a homeschooling family this week, I curiously tuned in, waiting for an explanation.  They wanted and even asked for this change.  Were they having second thoughts?  Was reality that summer is officially over, and time for real work to begin stirring apprehension?

I was surprised with their responses, as they both agreed that growing up is over rated, and that it would be better if we were starting Kindergarten or the 2nd grade all over again.  If only. When I asked Ethan if he was afraid to grow up, he confidently assured me that was not the issue, and then replied "I like things the way they are Mom - why change it?"  Gulp!  What parent wouldn't (at moments) like to freeze time?  Tonight I find myself (with a lump in my throat) wishing I could.  

Our babies are growing up.  I am excited to have a chunk of time this year, unlike any other, to impact their lives.  

Gratefully embracing what cannot be forever.