together

There is much to say about all the changes around here.  In particular our choice to not re-enroll Isabelle in school in Virginia.  Yes there was serious deliberation over this, but when it came down to it...it was quite simple.  People choose to homeschool for various reasons and I'm not sure exactly where my allies fall but it is somewhere in the middle I'm sure.

the first day of first grade (in VT)

Moving has been an opportunity for us to explore this world and see how it fits in our lives.  In Vermont both Aaron and I were ever so comfortable with the small scale, well supported and tight knit community that Isabelle's school was. Her kindergarten class had 9 kids, two teachers, there was a total of 200 students (k-6), each class had their own garden supported by the local organic CSA, they spent time in the forest, playing and learning.  That school was a family and I knew Isabelle felt loved and supported in her needs there.  Moving away from the dream public school to an area with a much greater population and school system that is so dense, does not afford this luxury.  I'm sure the schools here are great, but both Aaron and I had a hard time swallowing the thought of Isabelle attending a large school and with financial restrictions private is not an option.  Additionally still being in a renters market we weren't comfortable with the thought of Isabelle hopping between schools while we figure out where we will settle.

taking the plunge

This is a subject that I know will be visited and revisited (possibly in nauseating detail) in this space.  It is on my mind, the empowerment and freedom along side the self doubt and fears.  This is a journey that I have opened my heart to and am prepared to stay open minded about on all levels - traditional schooling or in the home.  We will always try our best to do what we feel is best for our kids and our family.

it's - "you can only use materials from the scrap paper and recycling bin day"
....ie: the messiest day of the week

Books by unschooling pioneers such as John Holt are stacked high, waldorf curriculum is dog eared on almost every page, math and phonics resources so graciously shared by Isabelle's VT 1st grade teacher are usually scattered on the kitchen counter, the table is only cleared long enough to eat before it is piled with a mountain of crafts or story writing, and the basket of library books grows by the week.  This is uncharted territory for us... so wild, messy and exciting.

And so together - we learn.