Sending Bryce to public school was the best thing that could have ever happened.

I know, I know...you all are going, "WHAT!?!?  This is definitely not the way to start a new homeschooling blog."

Take a deep breath.

That's right, I am not a homeschooling mom and haven't been all year.  My eldest son (8) asked to attend public school for second grade.  His reasons for doing so were valid so we allowed it.

It was the best thing that  could have ever happened!  Why, you ask?  Because I have gained a new appreciation/respect for homeschooling and my ability to do so.  I believe he has also gained a new appreciation for being homeschooled.

The school he attends is suppose to be one of the best in the county.  The nicest thing I can say is that if this is the best, I do not ever want to see the worst.

We will be homeschooling next year.  It is something we all want.  Bryce is bored to tears.  His grades aren't what they could be because he doesn't put fourth the effort.  He has this mind frame that if I already know it I shouldn't have to do it again and he has spent the year reviewing what he's already learned.  He has also been sicker this year than ever before.

My mother homeschooled Bryce for Kindergarten because my husband and I were both working full-time.  Last year I homeschooled him and I spent the majority of the year fearful that I was screwing him up, that I was doing it wrong, that I was failing him.  

I can now see that I am not doing any of those things.  He thrived as a homeschooler.  I am entering into homeschooling with a new passion for it and what I can accomplish with it.

This year hasn't ended and I have about 90% of my curriculum for both of my boys (Noah starts Kindergarten this year) complete.  I have most of the details worked out on how to present the information, how to keep things fun and interesting and how to stay organized while doing so.

I cannot wait for this school year to be over so the REAL schooling can begin.