So we are at the end of week one. We spent this week really trying to find our groove. I'm enjoying the Charlotte Mason method, and wholeheartedly agree with her philosophies. I think we've finally found our niche!!!

The readings have been challenging, fun, and inspiring. Our complete curriculum is on the left side-bar. Like I said, we are still trying to find our rhythm for the year. But this is going to be a much better year than last year.

School year 2010-2011 was not our best year. The unexpectedly tedious and painstaking process of trying to teach my twins the 3R's (to nearly no avail) left me depleted physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. I spent most of the year in frustration and feeling overwhelmingly defeated; which is why I haven't done a year in review, I just didn't want to relive it. Kyle did ok, we didn't finish as many books as we usually do. I have an unfavorable opinion about his handwriting; and his math speed increased less than minimally. I think the hardest thing about being "the teacher" is that I feel like everything is "my fault". I make no allowances for natural weaknesses, boredom, distractions, dislikes, a bad day, a bad week, a bad year. I nearly smothered in my own guilt and insecurity last year. I was wrong on so many fronts. I was prideful, unfaithful,impatient, neurotic (is that a sin)? But...joy does come in the morning!!!Now, I am in a better place. I really have made peace with where they are, and where they are not. I love them and enjoy them, and will perservere with them. I am learning that I need the fruits of the spirit more than ever. What a wonderful classroom when mother has a plentiful abundance of love, joy, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, goodness, GENTLENESS, FAITHFULLNESS, and self-control. The fruits in bold are the one's I am particularly praying for daily. How wonderful that God uses my chidren, and homeschooling to help me draw closer to Him. I think few things are more humbling than teaching your own children.