The "first day".

Well, yes...it has been awhile since I've written.  And I feel like I'm missing something.  Oh, that's right, I AM missing something.  My gallbladder.  Yep, gone.  That is what happens when you don't blog for awhile...something turns up missing.  ha!

 
So here we are, first day of homeschool.  While it is our 4th year homeschooling and I totally know the ropes, that first day always makes an entrance. Wow.  I can clearly see that no amount of prep work can prepare me for this day.  Or the girls either.  I mean, who's really ready to give up summer?  Especially if you live in Minnesota.  Not me!  It's just plain hard to sit still for any length of time that first day.  And this 'first day' was no exception.  I will admit it was a lonnnggg day.  But now it's over and we know more of what to expect from tomorrow.  So here's to tomorrow.  clink. clink.  (that's the sound of two glasses hitting together :)

This year is a little different in that I am able to teach both of the young 'uns together.  We are using My Father's World, Exploring Countries and Cultures.  Just an FYI:  I love MFW curriculum.  We have used it since day one and it just works for us.  I love how it is laid out and totally sets you up for success.  For math, we use A Beka, which is a nice, colorful spiral curriculum that is easy to use and teach.  For spelling, we are using Spelling Power for Maddie and All About Spelling for Allie.  Haven't really got my feet greatly wet yet with either one, but thinking they will be a good fit for each of them.  For Language Arts, I am really loving the Pathway Readers and workbooks.  And the girls do too!  Who wouldn't love this clean, conservative reading?

I thought this would be a good age/time to bring the girlies into the kitchen more.  One is already ready and willing to cook every meal, literally on my heels.  The other one would rather read about how to cook and forgo the work of it all.  Webster says forgo is to give up the enjoyment or advantage of; do without.  Yeah, I'm sure she wouldn't think of it as enjoyment...or even an advantage at this point.  ;)

And this is the year we start our foreign language; Spanish with Rosetta Stone.  Man am I excited about this!  I can't wait to hear the words flying back and forth between the girlies.  (hopefully they will be GOOD words :)  We added a new desk and laptops especially for this.  Yep, pretty cool stuff here! 

We are also part of a homeschool co-op, which I must confess, I don't think I could live without. I mean, it's adult conversation sprinkled with school ideas, spiritual rejuvenation, and food on the side.  Need I say more?!  We are in our 4th year and it's always a treat to meet up with returning friends you don't typically see over the summer and get to know new ones. 

And the girls joined a homeschool soccer group again this year, 3rd year running.  Literally.  Get it...soccer... running.  ;)  It is mighty fine exercise for the growing, energetic little things.  Of course there are friends who also attend, so that is a total plus.

Whew!  Is that it?  I severely doubt it, but it's where I'm gonna stop the torture.  I know!  The dedication and commitment of friends, right?!  I love you guys!!!  :)  Until next time...happy kids, camping, and beyond.