Lot's has been going on here in the Gardner home. I knew when I made the decision to homeschool that this was going to be a very crazy time to do so but when you know it's right, you just can't ignore that. Shortly after I decided to homeschool I was called as primary president at church, then I became pregnant with baby #3. Around that time we even thought we may be moving but thankfully (I say that now) it didn't pan out. With a possible ankle surgery for the husband this fall, this could get even more crazy but somehow I'm not my usual self - freaking out with worry. Somehow, although I don't even have a curriculum chosen, I feel like everything is going to be great.
I am glad that we finally made a trip up to IKEA to grab some things - it made me feel like i was finally making a step forward from all the talk of "what we are going to do."
We grabbed some shelves and supplies to help organize our school supplies and works and set them up in the boys room. We also grabbed a cart to fill with supplies that we can roll around the house for convenience. Among a few other things we picked up some exercise mats of which I am most excited about. I can just imagine us doing yoga, circle time, story time on the mats and that makes me so happy!
Another step forward for me was finally finding a co-op to join. The homeschool community is growing fast here in southern Utah so all the existing co-ops are full. I was glad to get a call from one of my only homeschool connections saying she decided to start a new one... I gladly joined in! Whew! A co-op is a key part of homeschooling where families meet once a week and teach each other, socialize and give each other support and advice. I can't wait to become a part of the community and learn from other like minded mothers!
I am currently praying about a curriculum, a routine and awaiting some training from Jude's old preschool teacher. I also have the big supply list hanging over my head and need like $1000 - if anyone has that just lying around. As I said however, I know I won't have all the supplies, I may be pregnant and tired, I may not even know what curriculum I like best but come September I know we will be ready to learn together. (I am praying for more patience and energy for sure!)
