Homeschool Update

 As I mentioned in the last post, "we" are homeschooling Shep and Bennett this year.  And, not this virtual mess... tried and true homeschooling.  And, by "we", I mean my mom and dad. :)

We did not want Exhibit A) - mask all day long

Hunter in a mask at school...  what the heck?

or Exhibit B) the unpredictable e-learning

Ashton, at home, during an e-learning week.

The older two decided to go to school which I fully supported.  Being older, they can advocate for themselves a better.  Hunter wanted to experience high school even though it is different.  Ashton needed to go to school to be eligible for middle school sports.

Long story, short... once the mandate came down that elementary kids had to wear masks, I felt a true peace about pulling S and B. The mask mess was just part of what was weighing on my heart. But, it was the final straw.  We pulled them out and Mantis and Queenie stepped right in.

Queenie helping Shepherd.  Once a week they school at my house.

Who wouldnt want a History lesson with Mantis outsdide?

And this view!  The dog world!

From my year of homeschooling Hunter, I knew that Heart of Dakota was a solid curriculum that would take very little planning on my part.  I purchased the "Bigger Hearts for His Glory" for Bennett and "Resurrection to Reformation" for Shepherd.  It is work.  And, Queenie and Mantis work them hard but oh, they have already grown so much.... and not just academically but spiritually, I have seem growth.  Later on, I will post a picture of all the books they are reading an example of a typical day but suffice it to say, they are thriving!  They both have memorized so many Bible verses and they are just 9 weeks into this!

Independent reading often takes place with Oakley. 

Queenie insisted the Bennett needed a space, his size, to do his work.  She found this adorable desk.  

I do like the public schools in our area but it is impossible to duplicate the kind of education that you get when homeschooling is done correctly- at least for the elementary years.  

Shepherd will often make things that relate to his curriculum.  I forgot what this bread represented but Bible verses were inside.  He also made some super sweet marzipan cookies.  

This is from only two weeks into school- already so much better. Bennett is also loving cursive!

My parents simply amaze me.  With mom retiring this summer, she didnt bat an eye when I came to her with this request.  She simply replied, "we made a promise to God to do everything in our power to raise these boys.  So, we will definitely homeschool them this year."  I tear up just thinking about the faithful example that my parents show.

On a side note, we were able to celebrate mom's birthday with our annual October party at our house!  So glad the whole family could get together.

The fam on mom's bday.