First Day of School 2013

We started school this past Wednesday. I wasn't very excited about it but it had to be done. :) It was probably the best first day of school we have ever had. I'm learning that I don't have to do every single subject on the first day. This year I decided to gradually introduce each subject. The kids just fell right in line. There was no chaos or stress. Everyone got their stuff done quickly and we were able to forget about school for 20 more hours.

We did start out our day with first day of school pics. I've seen some really cool first day of school pics that included what the kids what to be when they grow up and what their current interests are. Maybe someday I'll get that creative. For now we are sticking to our usual. We took the pics inside this year cause the sun was bothering all of us. Hard not to squint when you've been inside for several hours.

Does this even seem possible? I have a 13 year old? We joined our homeschool co-op when she was only 3. Time has flown by. She is quite the lady these days and is taking two high school credit classes this year.

My sweet, sensitive one. Cares about others and tries to be obedient most of the time. The first to be quiet when it gets chaotic. Very patient. 

The collector. I've blogged about his collections before. He's funny and independent. (He wanted me to tell you that starting January 1 he's going to keep track of how many orange cars he sees because you don't see that many orange cars.)

My crazy, silly, funny girl. Funny and loving- when she's in the mood. Always joking. ALWAYS joking. Keeps us on our toes.

My lover. LOVES to cuddle and give kisses. Loves sports and has a fabulous throw in football or baseball. He's so excited to do school. He already writes his name.

Precious little guy that I babysit. He's very brave and has a gorgeous smile. He loves to play with anything with wheels. 

The teacher needed her pic also. 36 years old. 9th year homeschooling and still smiling.

CURRICULUM for 2013-2014

Abigail's Books
Math: Teaching Textbooks- Pre Algebra
Language: Essentials in Writing 8, Lit Links- Anne of Green Gables (and others- haven't chosen them yet.)
Science: Apologia Physical Science
History: Answers in Genesis America From the Beginning
Health: Abeka Health in Christian Perspecitve
Art: Usborne Book of Art

Ethan's Books
Math: Teaching Textbooks- Math 6
Language: Essentials in Writing 6, Lit Links- Bunnicula (and others- haven't chosen yet.)
Science: Answers in Genesis God's Design for Heaven and Earth
History: Answers in Genesis America From the Beginning
Health: Abeka Enjoying Good Health
Art: Usborne Book of Art

Blake's Books
Math: Math U See Epsilon
Language: Essentials in Writing 5, Lit Links- Bunnicula (and others- haven't chosen yet.)
Science: Answers in Genesis God's Design for Heaven and Earth
History: Answers in Genesis America From the Beginning
Health: Abeka Enjoying Good Health 
Art: Usborne Book of Art

Alison's Books
Math: Math U See Gamma
Language: Essentials in Writing 3, Lit Links- Nate the Great and the Sticky Case (and others- haven't chose yet.)
Science: Answers in Genesis God's Design for Heaven and Earth
History: Answers in Genesis America From the Beginning
Health: Abeka Enjoying Good Health
Art: Usborne Book of Art

Chase's and Casey's Books
Language and Math: Everything for Early Learning: Preschool
Math & Science: Can Do Cooks
Art: Usborne Book of Art
Other: Various Manipulatives, fun stuff, pinterest ideas, anything they want to do with the bigger kids, etc.

Co-op
This year our co-op is doing a lot. I am still in Home on the Rock (HOTR) but the smaller group that I'm in within HOTR is called Garnet and we only meet once a month. It's MUCH better for my life and our schedule. Here's a rundown on what we'll be doing this year:

• September: Welcome picnic & scavenger hunt
• October: The Maize at Little Darby (pick pumpkins, corn maze, bounce house, educational, etc.)
• November: Art Day- Thanksgiving Theme
• December: ?? Possibly Bricks 4 Kidz, Anthony Thomas Tour, or 104.9 Tour
• January: Bowling and tour @ Ten Pin Alley
• February: Art Day- President Theme
• March: Main Library Tour
• April: Olentangy Indian Caverns
• May: Pinnacle Nursing Home- singing patriotic songs

That's it. I've blogged too long and life is calling. :)