So I've been feeling badly about neglecting the blog the past few weeks. With several bellydance performances (including our huge bi-annual recital) at the end of October, I knew I'd be lucky just to keep up with our school schedule - much less blogging about it.The good news is that I was able to relax my expectations of what I could accomplish during this time and enjoy all the fun stuff in store just for me. Also good news is that school more or less still got done - many times due to the help of my wonderful hubby. The only bad news really is that the house is a wreck and I'm at least two weeks behind on laundry.
More good news is that we're officially one month into what tends to be my "busy season", and I'm still not feeling the stress. This year, I've decided to relax and enjoy things more (which I've decided to do before but without any success). So far, so good this year.
What seems to be helping this time around is focusing on one thing at a time. Last week was Halloween; the week before was my recital. Now I'm shifting towards putting together my Thanksgiving co-op and potluck; once that's done I'll finalize plans for our Thanksgiving trip and start doing some prep work for Noah's birthday (which is two days after we get back from vacation). Next, of course, will be Christmas, but I'm excited about it - not anxious like I often am.
In the past I've been easily overwhelmed this time of year by all there is to do. Making myself focus on one thing at a time has really alleviated a lot of stress and minimize the time I waste by over-planning. Maybe there really is something to that "older and wiser" thing.
Hi, Jessica. I found you through the Orbbies nomination page. I've enjoyed reading back through your blog and see so much of my early homeschooling self! We live in Kissimmee and have homeschooled since the beginning (now have kids in conventional grades 8, 2, 1, and K). I used to be a hardcore schedule and planned curriculum gal, complete with the well-organized "schoolroom" that rarely got used. As more kids with more learning styles were added to the mix, we found that more of an unschooling/experiential learning style fit better with our family. We use a math curriculum and do the rest with extensive reading and field trips. I love some of your ideas and appreciate the links to area resources; we just moved to this area in February, so are still finding our bearings.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on beginning the homeschooling journey. It's a fun one and one in which you will learn as much or more than your kiddos! Hope your busy season continues with manageable stress levels! Glad to have run across your site!
Hi Becky. It's so nice to hear from other homeschoolers, especially those who have been doing it for a while.
ReplyDeleteStarting out, I wouldn't have thought unschooling would be for us, but it looks more and more appealing with each passing day. Seems like it would be a good fit with our lifestyle; I just haven't figured out how (when and if) to let go of the scheduling and planning. :)
I'm glad you are finding the local resources helpful. Welcome to Orlando!