New Year, Good Start.
P.S. Cindy, they are now addicted to that show. Specifically, Julia.
For some of 2013 we floundered a bit in our science, writing, and history studies, struggling to achieve our goals. This was in part because of our move to the cabin, and our new/old house renovations that we are doing; it was also greatly in part to medical appointments out of town, that we had to work into our busy schedule. These appointments taking up two days per week for 12 weeks through the summer and early fall, and then decreasing to once a week for a time-- finally to every other week. Which brings me to a word of advice-- do not try risky sports after you reach the age of 30. Oh regrets!! The injury from our accident has tormented me for two+ years but is definitely better with the chiropractic care we have received at Wilson Chiropractic in Beaumont. The kids have been better from the visits to Wilson's as well.
Because of our various set-backs we have been working year round on school, working around appointments as needed. This was a schedule that I had contemplated working toward in the past, but the year's events kind of brought it about for us in 2013.
Thankfully, we did make progress in our academics over the course of the year.
In summer we ordered a new math curriculum for Jonathan-- 8th grade Teaching Textbooks, a computer-based math program. Over the summer Jonathan also completed a high-school level speech class. Both children joined 4-H, in the fall, and began taking a photography class together, along with continued participation in local church and homeschool events.
Other exciting things that have recently been going on have been that Julia, (8), has saved up her money and bought a guitar from Jonathan, and has been learning guitar chords. She has also learned to cross-stitch, and continually doodles in her free time making notes and cards to friends and family (even though she rarely remembers to actually give them away). Julia loves singing and we have been blessed for her to be able to participate in a local children's choir (might need to invest in some vocal coaching later on if this interest continues,). She also loves painting very much-- she's an artistic one.
Jonathan, (13) has been a great help in assisting with the fix-it-yourself projects that have to be done around the place, also assisting with yard work, burning limbs, brush, and general clean up. He continues to practice his guitar skills; along with designing memes (OH please, help! do I have to read another meme?! Shhh! Don't tell him I said that, he has so much fun with it) and spending time doodling on electronic devices. His attention in the last week has been focused outdoors on building a sock launcher (aka, potato gun-- think socks, hair spray, BBQ pit lighter, plastic vinegar bottle, duct tape, and a metal tube which works as the barrel). I do hope he has some socks left after this project finally winds down. He is currently saving up for a new gun to hunt with, and also to purchase another guitar to replace the one he sold to Julia. He's rather introverted, maybe a little unsure of himself still, but he informs me that he loves to go to youth group and events where he can be around other people; so I encourage as much socializing as he will go for.
Julia started her 4th grade math curriculum last month. She has been so excited about getting a math curriculum that is computer-based like Jonathan's. She did three lessons each day-- when it first arrived, but has cut back to 1-2 a day now that the new has worn off. I am already liking this Teaching Textbooks math makeover. The excitement is a nice change from the constant complaining, as was the case before with the load of bookwork.We also found a cheesy website that she likes to use in addition to her grammar, spelling and writing (a good way to supplement what we are already doing); she uses the 3rd grade Easy Peasy English. http://allinonehomeschool.com
We did take a short time off for a break over Christmas and New Years; which was much needed. Even now I feel refreshed and ready to tackle our most challenging projects with a joyful spirit, instead of the grudging and trudging feelings that those challenging subjects so often bring. Spring fever is what we usually have around this time of year = burn out.
Along with the kids' projects, schooling, and their activities outside of the home, I am looking forward to continuing to attend a local Bible study that I was recently invited to; I have also continued to attend the monthly book club that has become dear to me (even though I don't always read the books). I've started a running routine which is to help me build up to a 5K run in May. For some reason I got sick the last time I planned a 5K right around the time of the race, and didn't follow through; I plan to follow through with this one. I mean, who could miss the Bad Prom Run in Austin? It's going to be funny! Running with a pal is going to make it even more enjoyable.
I hope you all had a nice holiday and refreshing break.
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