Ready for School?

"Can we start our math today?" This is music to the ears of a homeschool mom. Although, in my mind I still had at least a week to prepare for the new school year. We usually ease into it; adding a subject each week or so during the month of August. But how could I refuse those sweet little eager faces? So now I am scrambling to organize the "school closet" and create schedules. Gone are the days of wistfully imagining a clean house and quiet time if I send my dear ones off on a big yellow bus, gleefully grasping shiny new lunchboxes and monogrammed backpacks. I know families who love public/private school and bloom where they are planted. But, we are a homeschool family. That is the lifestyle we love. We can take a field trip anytime. We can wear costumes or pj's to our school. I love seeing their faces as they learn to read bigger words or understand a difficult math problem. I love hearing them talk about what they learned in history or science just because they thought it was cool. We can pray and talk about God and study creation. And we can start whenever we want! I don't know if I am ready... but since the kids are, I must rise to the challenge. Dear Lord, please give me the patience and energy I will need to start this school year in a productive way. Help me to be a good example of diligence and to have a positive attitude. Above all, help me to love my children as you do. Help me to speak kindly and be encouraging. Help me to also be a good wife to Dan- being patient and respectful and loving. Thank you for giving me such a precious family. Amen.

***Although my children are getting older, I have made a few batches this summer.
Still a fun and creative way to learn...
Play Dough
1 c. plain flour
1/2 c. salt
2 t. cream of tartar
1 c. water
1 T. oil
1 envelope unsweetened kool aid mix, any flavor
(using kool aid lets you easily vary colors and scents...try a different one each time)
Mix all ingredients in heavy saucepan over medium heat. Cook until mixture pulls away from sides of pan, stirring constantly. Place dough on large square of waxed paper. Knead when cool enough to touch. Store in airtight container.