The Learners' School has been on Fall Break for the last week. It wasn't really a planned break but it happened. Last Thursday I was not feeling well, probably because of allergies. Friday, after what seemed like weeks and weeks of rain and gloom, I decided just to get out of the house. We didn't do much outside because it was wet but we had lunch out and did a little shopping. This past Monday I started out by wanting to get the house cleaned - too much rain and 3 boys makes for lots of clutter and mess - while the boys played outside. Well, my body had other plans for me and I spent most of the day in bed with cramps. Tuesday Ryan was sick and he went to the allergist. I felt sure that Wednesday would be the day to get going again - until I remembered the field trip with Joshua's school. I had signed up to be a parent volunteer. So, here we are on Thursday of this week - and I am achy again. I am hopeful it is just allergies.
Tomorrow - we are getting back to work!!
Again, I am thankful for the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling. We are not behind, even though we have missed a week of school. We live our life as a family in a way that learning is all around us, all the time. Books and music are important to us everyday, not just on school days, and that didn't stop this week. The boys were able to play outside and use their imaginations (both inside and out). We went to the Heard Museum in McKinney where they had an exhibit that talked about the make-up of the earth, which was the last science lesson we read. Learning did not stop.
That being said, I plan on catching up next week by doing two weeks in one, especially with the history and science. That way we are able to do the lessons referencing Christmas at the right time. I am thankful that the curriculum is easy to adjust. I am thankful for the curriculum, in general.
I think there is something to be said for "mental health" days, for adults and children. Everyone needs a time to rest and recharge. I believe my boys need time to be boys, too. They love to be outside and with the rain that has been practically impossible. Zachary is practicing for the Christmas musical at church and spent the better part of today singing the songs. Please don't get me wrong: Education (math, history, spelling, etc) is EXTREMELY important and we don't make light of it or take it for granted - the boys are learning what they need to learn on track with their peers (or somewhat ahead). I just think that the learning that happens on its own, without a book or lesson plans, is just as important. Letting the boys have time to explore is necessary for them...and for me. Letting the boys have time to play and be boys is important, too. (and it is also important for my sanity to have some time off)
1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
