Learning in the Sunshine State

Okay, this post is a shameless request for a vote, but not for me. My niece is 20 years old and the mother of 6 month old twins. Her soon to be husband (they’re getting married Friday) works two jobs and is a terrific new dad. She’s trying to earn extra money in many different ways, without having to put the babies in daycare and go to a job every day. So…

She entered one of her cats in a cute pet contest. She can win a $100 gift card or even $1000 cash. If you’re feeling generous you can vote for Binx here

Ten Things We Love About Homeschooling

It’s the start of the school year for many kids. Some homeschoolers follow a traditional schedule, while others don’t. Since a majority of Americans associate August and September with back to school, this seems to me an appropriate time for this post.

1. no alarm clocks

2. no morning rush

3. tailoring lessons to fit your child

4. making our own schedule

5. reading on the couch (bed, floor, etc.)

6. kitchen science/math

7. more family time

8. park days with homeschooled friends (for moms too)

9. having the library (mostly) to yourself during the day

10. no homework

Floridians should not have to go this long without seeing the sun shine. The rain started early Tuesday morning, and as of now, it’s still raining. We are fortunate. We’ve had a lot of rain and wind, but I can say that the worst it’s been is annoying. We have friends south of us who have dealt with flooding and leaks. Some are unable to go anywhere because their neighborhood streets are now rivers.

We’ve been passing the time by playing games, watching movies, and watching the news anchors tell us that it’s still raining. Dennis has had a neighborhood friend over every day except today, and that’s kept him from  getting too bored. They’ve been playing out in the rain a lot. That’s a big deal for Florida kids. Most of the time our rain comes with lightning, so playing in the rain is usually not an option.

School in our county started Monday, but that’s the only day kids attended. It’s canceled for tomorrow too, so I imagine the above mentioned friend will come by. Bill hasn’t been to work since Monday, but expects to get called back in tomorrow.

Tonight will be another night of listening to the wind. When I know that the wind isn’t dangerous, it actually sounds good. It’s fascinating to watch and soothing to hear. But I’m done with it. I’m a Floridian. I want to feel the sun on my skin.  Go away Fay.