...are EXACTLY why we decided to home school! I find myself counting my blessings every single day. Because of home schooling, we've made so many memories. Learned so many things. Like when Annie found a turtle, and Audrey & Abigail went into research mode. They grabbed books, a journal, and looked up info online. I think one of the best things we've learned this year is that learning takes place any time and anywhere. We have the time to take a topic we suddenly find interest in and run with it.  And seeing this sweet face at preschool pick-up! Feels like Christmas morning :) We love our lunch dates at Firehouse. Staying up late for a sister jam session is not an issue when you don't have to wake up early for school. Sisters can come and be apart of special school events. When you get to learn how to play an instrument. Joining other home school families for a canoe trip on a gorgeous spring day!   Yes, learning is everywhere...

After lots of research and speaking with fellow home schooling mommas, I decided to go with the IOWA test. I really liked how comprehensive it was (testing all areas.) First up was Audrey. Goodness. It is very apparent that she's got testing anxiety. She was so, so nervous about getting an answer wrong. She would think out loud and pretty much convince herself that more than one answer could be correct (reading test.) I just kept reassuring her, all the while thanking GOD she didn't have to deal with SOLs again. Once she got through the first 8 or so questions, it was smooth sailing. We took about 2 weeks to complete all the testing. Some days we'd do just 1 section, sometimes 2. There were days we didn't test at all, opting instead to go canoeing or on a field trip :) I see posts from friends (teachers & moms) about entering SOL time. The stress, the pressure...It's ridiculous. I know first hand that there are SO MANY teachers who try and make testing fu

We finished our last (24th) week of CC back in April! It's a wrap until August, when we'll start Cycle 2. Week after week I've watched the girls' enthusiasm for learning grow. This is such a new way of learning for them. I only wish we had started sooner! Things we loved: -Our community days were on Mondays. This was a great way to start our week- with friends and fresh material. -The memory work. Our tutors are soooo good with the kids! They keep them engaged and excited. And they really get those songs stuck in your head ;) I sit in with Annie, and after the winter break we started combining our class with the 6 year-olds. She constantly volunteered to sing the songs in front of everyone. So brave! -Presentations. Each week the kids get the chance to stand up in front of their class and do a presentation on anything they wish. They can talk about a toy, an experience, a new skill...the possibilities are endless! This of course prepare