Since we took all but the first week of December off, it made sense to start back on January 2. Bill went back to work and we went back to school. We started a new type of schedule, and began our main focus of the next few months — the American Revolution. School kids start Monday, but we don’t follow a traditional schedule so that doesn’t matter to us.
But then…
Wednesday afternoon the doorbell rang. When I answered, there stood a friend of Dennis’ who lives 2 streets away, AND Dennis’ best friend who had to go to school this year. They go to the same Catholic school, and Best Friend was visiting Neighbor Friend, so they decided to come and see if Dennis was home. No problem. We were done with school for the day anyway.
Thursday, Neighbor Friend called to see if he could come over. We were in the middle of spelling, and still had some reading to do. I caved. There aren’t many kids in this neighborhood, and our homeschool friends are all at least a half hour away. When a kid knocks on the door to play with my kid, it’s hard to say no.
This morning we have P.E., and this afternoon was going to be Art and a read-aloud related to the Revolution. Except now the plans are for Neighbor Friend to have a sleepover. I told his mom I’d call her when we get back, so he can come on over.
So much for new plans. But the beauty of homeschooling is that we can change plans at the last minute. We’re not on anyone’s schedule but our own. So we start next week instead of this week. No matter. In the long run it won’t make a bit of difference whether or not we “did school” three days this week. On the other hand, the memories of playing with friends on Christmas break can last a lifetime.
by Mom #1, on January 4 2008 @ 12:46 pm
That’s all so true!
That’s my favorite thing about home schooling . . . having control of my own life.
Whenever Baby Boy gets a better offer in the way of other kids to interact with, I always give in too.
Happy New Year!
by woodstone, on January 6 2008 @ 11:16 am
Yeah, I have those kinds of days too, “the best laid plans…” just don’t always work out.
I agree though, that’s the beauty of homeschooling… flexibility! I too have given up school plans for friend time. We also live quite a ways from most of our homeschool friends, so we really value time with friends.
Yes, our little Quin is a sheltie. He’s a real sweetheart (and my “baby”) I love shelties… He’s the second I’ve had and I’m always so impressed with their intelligence, loyalty and willingness to please.
Thanks for stopping by my blog!