Moving on... from moving. The past week we have been moving, and moving, and moving. When Barry's brother said he had access to a 20 ft trailer for the week and lots of friends to help us move, we jumped on it. Probably a little too soon. We weren't ready a week early; we weren't packed hardly at all. We made at least five trips over the whole week, packing and moving. We have been so grateful for Joey and his friends helping us, and are so glad we don't have to make any more trips! Barry and I went up and cleaned the house today, and turned in a key to the realtor so he can start showing it to potential renters.
Moving on... into home ownership. We've been in our new house for a week! We love it. All the big stuff got moved in last Sunday, which was the first night we slept here. The week has been busy with contractors in and out (first the plumber to unclog the kitchen sink, then Direct TV, Wisprenn (internet), Proflame (propane), and an alarm company). The kids have spent a lot of time outside running, riding bikes and scooters, and running some more. The only thing running more is the dogs who are thoroughly enjoying their space here as well. There is so much space on 2 1/2 acres. I don't know why we didn't do this sooner :) Being in a one-story house again is such a blessing. We are all on one level and no longer have to do the "stomp-method" for getting the attention of those in the basement :) I do have to say we will greatly miss the mountains though. It's good we are only 20 minutes away so we can go up and visit often.
Moving on... to homeschooling. Anyone who knows us or who has read our blog for a while knows we've been debating the public school vs. homeschool issue for our kindergartener. At one point, we were completely set on homeschooling without reservation. Then I started doubting myself and abilities, time constraints, organization skills, etc., especially so soon after bringing Micah home. In July, I thought there was no way I could juggle it all, so I enrolled her in public school. Her teacher was great. She adjusted quickly, and was making friends. Overall, it was a good situation. However, after volunteering a couple times (both Barry and I), we were reminded of some of the reasons why we had decided to homeschool. We talked, we prayed, and we researched. Then we met with a local Charter homeschool, and decided to go with it. It's been a couple weeks, and I love the freedom and flexibilities homeschooling provides, and the opportunity I have to teach my child all she learns, being there for all the milestones and moments of realization. I know there are many critics of homeschooling, but after researching the facts and praying, this is the best thing we could ever do. And when it's all said and done, all of our reasons are simply that. Our reasons. They are probably similar to the reasons other people have for homeschooling. But in my heart of hearts, I know that homeschooling is the best thing for our family.
I won't be the perfect teacher; I will make mistakes; I won't be a pro on everything I teach her, but really who will? In our declining educational system, I can't do any worse than what she'll get in a classroom (absolutely no offense to the teachers). Teachers are required to teach what will be covered on mandatory state testing. The budget cuts have drastically affected every classroom. The time and funds aren't there to allow them to be as creative as they used to be. The California students I know who have moved out of state recently are scoring far below what they should be in comparison to other states' schools, even when they were acing subjects here! The time we will save by teaching one-on-one allows us the flexibility to teach everywhere: the store, bank, library, museum, park, home, car, etc. Life is our classroom! Yes, we will be teaching the same subjects, but there will be a budget provided by the Charter school for art, music, and other fun activities... she will get to do more in the homeschool setting than the public school system for sure. And socialization is not an issue with all these activities, plus church!
Of course, Fischer will finish his senior year in public school, and it has been the best thing for him. I have no regrets putting him through public school, and am so happy that he has done so well. Micah will also begin his school career in public education, getting the therapies and help he needs. As he gets older and progresses, that may change in the future, but for now we are confident with the services public school can provide for his needs (although we know they have to be provided whether in public school or not).
I am so blessed to be surrounded by a large group of homeschooling moms, including those new to the ropes, those who have done it, and those who have been homeschooled themselves. In addition, the support I will get from the Charter school will keep us on track for what we should be learning/teaching. So, while I do support our local public schools, especially those in our school district... and while I know there are advocates for public school and homeschool... it really comes down to what we think is best for our kids. Nobody knows them and their needs better than we do. There are always opinions and advice for everything, even how to lie them down at night when they're babies... but in the end it is our decision and our responsibility to choose what's best for our kids.
Moving on... in our life with Micah. This boy is amazing. He is so sweet and has the greatest personality ever. He's been home three months already! All the kids have adjusted wonderfully. Things have settled down into somewhat of a routine, and will continue to get easier and more refined as time goes on.
Moving on... from an extended family. Barry's brother and his boys will be going back to Texas soon (as long as the judge is in a good mood next week), and our house will look somewhat "normal" again as we shrink from 10 to 7 again. We will miss them a lot, but it will be good for all of us to get back to our families as they should be. Pray for a good outcome on the 21st!
Moving on. Isn't life continously in motion? We are all moving forward from one thing to another. I pray as we all endure changes, ups, and downs that we will all be mindful of our many blessings, and remember to thank the One who is always there for us.
~Shelly
