our journey

     I have been homeschooling for nineteen years and the longer I homeschool, the more I realize that I don't have all of the answers.  I used to think that homeschooling was the way, the best way, and I was on a mission to convince everyone of this truth.  Yet, now, as I have put two children in high school (one full time and one part time), and I see many great families who have wonderful children in school, I see it as just one way.  Yet, I see it as a way that I still feel called to share with others - not as the way anymore, but as a very viable and fruitful option for families full of possibilities.
    
     I just visited with a dear friend of mine who asked me about my children.  I proceeded to share with her all of the many different endeavors that my kids were involved in - animal breeding, art making, music playing, and various from the ground up, business ventures. She looked at me, paused, and said, "I would've loved to learn the way your kids learn.  Wouldn't you have too? It's so free- so organic- and I think that my mom would've done it if she would've known about that possibility."  

     Her comment hit me to the core... "if she would've known about that possibility."  And so, I am sharing 'that possibility' with you in this blog.  It is not the way, but it is our way. It is not meant to be your way - for everyone's way should and must be unique to their own gifts, talents, personalities and family circumstances. Yet it is simply an example of another way - a way that is different than traditional schooling or traditional homeschooling, for that matter.  It is a way that is not perfect, for perfection is not possible, but it is a way that is eclectic and flexible way that allows each one of us to have the freedom to be who we are. It involves some workbooks, but a lot of learning on the fly- through real life experiences.  It is mostly child-led, interest-led, parent supported.  It involves learning through living life together as a family  - surrounded by God's gifts of animals, nature, gardens, and creative experiences. It is our journey and I hope that it helps you to believe in new possibilities for your family's  journey too.  Let's begin...