So, you've decided to homeschool!  You're in for a wonderful journey of growth, blessing and adventure.  Your kids are going to blossom in ways you haven't imagined.  Think of all the things your children will learn --- all the things you'll learn...

     Having finished homeschooling my twins, all I can say is that teaching was one of the greatest ventures of my life.  It was exciting and fun and adventurous at times. Like the time I said, "Guys, drop everything.  We're going to the Frederick Airport."  I had just read in the paper that some very impressive vintage airplanes were due to land and would only be at the airport for a short time that Friday afternoon.  I abandoned the science lesson!  We happened to be studying the principles of flight, so the excursion made total sense.  The twins flipped their pencils in the air... "Alright -- we're there!" was the response.

      Okay, maybe I had a little weakness for slightly spontaneous field trips... Not every day did we find such interesting things to do. Other times homeschooling was mundane and monotonous and downright difficult.  I talk about some of my math struggles in a recent blog, My Math Dilemma.  

    You may be wondering how you're going to teach, how you're going to do it.  Well, when you became a new mom, you may have wondered the same thing.  How am I going to do this?  Same goes with teaching; you'll teach with your own style, with your own strengths.  If you have a moment, check out my blog You're A Natural Teacher, So Teach With Your Own Style.

    Here's an example of what I'm talking about:  You may be gifted in a particular area and will be very strong in teaching that subject.  Then, in the areas that you're weak, homeschooling will stretch you and help you to re-learn things that may have been hard initially.  Many moms say how neat it is to teach History -- to recall all the dates and things that they've forgotten since they've been in school.  It's a wonderful thing.

     Overall, homeschooling is extremely enriching, and I'm sure that you'll be glad you did it.  It's so worth it!

     And always remember that God never turns mothers away -- we can ask Him for help, guidance and wisdom along the entire journey! So, take courage and teach well.

     love,

     MaryAnn