One month in

So it's been a bit over a month since we started the school year and although I feel like we've made some progress I'm still worried that we aren't getting enough schooling done. It just seems like there are a million things that get in the way of getting our work done. We get math and reading done daily but the rest is hit and miss. The kids are getting a bit more cooperative but its still a struggle to get them down to work after breaks. I'm really hoping that it will get better still. I've also been slacking a bit when it comes to preparing and I don't know why I lost steam.  I think the lack of planning is my biggest deterrent.  We have been talking about doing an army rank system as a reward system.  I think it will also help with motivating them...if only we could find/make the time to get it set up.

On another note, the kids have chosen Niagara Falls for their next research project. The library only had one book on the topic. I was very disappointed.  I'm hoping we will be able to find more info online and maybe do a field trip this month as well :)

I'm also not as impressed with the online Bible overview course we have been following for our Bible lessons as I used to be.  More and more it is getting dependent on reading books other than the Bible (mostly that I don't own).  I think I may continue to use it as a guideline and do my own thing (which I was kind of doing anyways, but now more so).

We also really need to get the Spalding program book read and implemented because one of my biggest goals for Caleb for this year is to get him to read. I know that it is a good program, but it seems like it would "easier" to just get a program that is all set out for me....like All About Spelling.

Ahhh...so much to do.  This homeschooling stuff sure keeps me on my toes.

And here are some random pics of my beautiful children...the reason all of this work is necessary and so worth it!!!!

Halloween costumes were purchased this week and have been worn around the house non-stop!