I'm thankful to wrap up yet another week of homeschooling. I have to be honest, this week had some great moments, but it also had some very rough moments, too. I mean it when I say I have really been doubting myself.
Even though we had started back to school last week it seemed like the kids still had *holiday brain drain* this week. I am thinking of what we might be able to switch and change up in order to break out of a possible rut. I was all lesson-planned out and ready to go, but when the kids bog down it is so frustrating.
I am still searching for that motivator for my son, too. He isn't always motivated by reward, nor he is really motivated by the threat of punishment. He's pretty stubborn--much like myself. That's why we go head-to-head so often, I think. Neither one wants to give in or compromise. But that's unproductive, right?
I found myself having to apologize to my children several times this week: for losing my temper, for yelling, for acting like I tell them not to act (wonder where they get it, huh?). And that's when I begin to doubt myself. Making stupid mistakes over and over again does tend to make one feel like a loser and a failure.
But that's when I have to humble myself, apologize, ask their forgiveness and start fresh. Thank God that my children are very quick to apologize in return and give their forgiveness--along with hugs and kisses. What precious gifts from God I have been blessed with; what treasures! I am so grateful for them every day, even when they're driving me crazy:)
Oh--and have I mentioned just how challenging it is trying to do school work while a puppy is chewing on your feet or peeing on the carpet or chewing up the computer cords or whining to go out?!? I do love the little fur ball, but she is a huge distraction at this stage. I keep telling myself: "she'll grow out of it soon", "she'll grow out of it soon"...;) Good thing she's so cute!
Here are the highlights from our week:
This week kicked off the very first co-op classes that our new homeschool group has ever had! There are four classes offered: Bible Trivia, Sign Language, Cooking and Choir. My kiddos couldn't have been more excited! We have really missed our co-op with our previous homeschool group back in AR. The main thing that has thrown me for a loop with our new co-op is that we are meeting on Mondays. Have you ever known a homeschool mom who liked to go somewhere on a Monday morning?! I sure haven't!! At least not before now--ha! Needless to say this is a great challenge for me since Mondays are usually my *ease into the week, don't leave the house* day. The classes were a lot of fun and my kids loved them--and I did, too! I am assisting in the Bible Trivia class and couldn't have been prouder of how well my kiddos did in there. I'm their mom, so I can brag a little, right?
(Mr. B in his sign language class)
(The Princess in choir)
Back at home in other schooling...
All subjects are progressing nicely--at least the basic ones. I've slacked a bit on a few of our extra-curricular subjects such as French and Art. But it was just our second week back into the swing of things since the holidays so I'm feeling pretty good about what's been accomplished.
(the kiddos wearing their Roman laurel wreaths for history)
On Friday our monthly homeschool group meeting was cancelled due to snow, even though we didn't really get too much. However, my kids made the absolute most of what we did get. They got our their new snow saucers, built a mini snowman, had snowball fights, made {grassy} snow angels and more! Holly, our new puppy, wasn't so impressed with the snow though. It was funny to see her try to rush back inside to get away from it.
After all the snow play we took the kids to see Beauty and the Beast in the theater. They've seen it before, but I remember seeing it in the theater and how wonderful it was (Belle is my favorite Disney princess:). It was fun to watch it again on the big screen! Made me flashback to my college days.
Now I'm ready for the weekend! Vince's sister and her family are coming from OK to visit for a couple of days so that will be fun. The kiddos can't wait to play with their cousin:) And, of course, company coming always ensures that the house is {mostly} clean and the laundry is caught up, right? That's a great way to start the weekend! I hope you enjoy yours!
This post is linked to the Weekly Wrap-up at Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers.
