Playtime

We have finally settled into our new place. The kids are getting adjusted to our new schedule. Burt and I are beginning to figure out how to time manage being parents, students, working and homeschooling. It has been a very difficult for me to be away from the kids. at the beginning of the semester the kids and I were really struggling but it is getting better everyday.

Here are some pics of the kids enjoying the playground at the new place.




EG



KK



our little monkey



T

God is so amazing

Have you ever been so amazed at how God can work out things that seemed impossible? We have felt through this whole process of moving to Anderson, Burt going back to A. University and becoming involved in this community that we were right where God wanted us. We were talking about buying a house and really settling in. All this time, God has been preparing this season...this very short season for us to move again.......we were/are very confused as to how we may have missed the hints that God surely placed in front of us. We were completely taken off guard at how one afternoon of reminiscing could lead to us moving back to TN in 3 weeks. God has busted through doors and windows that have completely caught us off guard. Burt and I both will be attending the University of TN in the fall as in state students, we will continue to homeschool and Burt will be building his teaching business in Knoxville. GOD IS AMAZING! Things are happening so quick, it seems as if we are dreaming. God has provided in a way that no one could expect or imagine. We are so thankful and unworthy of such a personal loving savior. His lve for us has been poured into every detail of this new season in ways that are so undeniable. I am so excited to be moving back to my hometown. The kids will get to s[end more time with my side of the family. These are going to be very busy times ahead and I can't wait!!!!!!!!

Since my last post, we have made alot of changes. We moved about 3 weeks ago, to be closer to the University Burt will be attending in the fall. Burt will be going back to school full time and working full time. While we are both excited about him going back to school, I am so afraid he will be beyond exhaustion. Another change, Burt has accepted a part time position as a worship leader at a UMC about 45 minutes away.

We have been orgainizing and cleaning everything. The house we moved into is exactly half the size of our old house. I can not stand clutter and messes. I am going nuts trying to get this house even remotely set up the way I want it to be. I have a list for about half the IKEA catalog. LOL We are hoping to take a big trip and take care of all the organizational items we need.

During all of this we are continuing to homeschool. We are going on through the summer with a few weeks off in July. I have continued the search for curriculum for Katlyn next year. I still have a few things to tweak before I feel comfortable.

Through this time of change, we are reminded of how blessed we are, Burt is going to finish school something he has had such a desire to do for the past few years. The kids are healthy, happy and have adjusted nicely to the new town. We are still in search of homeschoolers their age. I am really excited to see how we will grow as a family in the new season we are approaching.

Kindergarten

After scouring the internet and tons of catalogs, I have found our curriculum for next year. N and EG will both be doing Kindergarten work next year. Here is "the list"




We will add the Bible songs into what we are already doing. This will help them memorize the books of the Bible and stories. K used Veritas Press Bible curriculum with the Cd and they loved it. I think they will like having their own CD.



I think this item caused the most stress. I LOVE Veritas Press but there are so many mixed reviews about this program. I decided to try it. With songs, games, great artist masterpieces...I can't go wrong...RIGHT?????





I love Wordly Wise and I was really excited that they have a Kindergarten workbook. The Explode the Code series is new for me. I am really excited to go through these with N and EG.







I have read alot of reviews about this program and it seems that it will be a good fit for both N and EG. i am currently trying to find another math curriculum for K. I hope by not using the same with them, I can avoid a midyear panic session of finding something else.





I decided on HWT because N does have a few fine motor skill issues and with EG starting early I hope this will be middle ground for both of them.

I am still looking into what science will will be pursuing next year with them and with K. I am trying to decide if I want to go with a more CM approach because it fits us better or because looking at science curriculum is what keeps me awake at night with nightmares?

It's Official.....

N is a homeschooler. I signed his wavier today, so he is officially a homeschooler for K5. As I was pulling out of the parking lot, I was completely overcome with appreciation. I am so thankful to live in a society where I can teach my children at home, as I feel God has called me to do. There are so many places in the world where parents can not do what I do. I pray that Burt and I never take for granted this awesome gift.
I am so excited about officially starting with N. I have been mulling over catalog after catalog and website after website. I will have a post soon about the curriculum I have picked for next year.

Back to reality

Our schedule for the last month has been so ridiculously amazing. Burt has not gone into work before 11am. He has helped out with school, housework, everything. The kids and I have been spoiled by all the Daddy time. Well....today was his first day back at NGU for the spring semester. He also had a breakfast with the worship team from church. He was up and out at 6 am and he is due home in about 15 minutes....Can you tell I have missed him? This has been a long day. Sure...I did 4 loads of laundry, school with the kids, cleaned the upstairs, workout and even showered and got out of my pjs today. But, I will be so excited when he gets here in 13 minutes.....until he makes me watch Night Rider tonight. LOL...I have missed you today Music Man!!!

Random 2008 pics

The Elmore's at the zoo.






On vacation at Oak Island, NC




Apple picking and hay ride

My poor neglected blog

Okay.....New Year's Resolution 19 days late....UPDATE BLOG!!!!!! Pictures and updates coming soon!!!!