Classes

I am trying to find balance in my life. As I age, it gets a bit easier, but sometimes it is always a struggle. I find that I want my kids to have all of the advantages that other children have; educationally, socially, etc. Choosing to homeschool heightens this awareness (or fear) and forces me to concretely think about what I intentionally bring into our children's lives.

For instance, toddler gymnastic classes. Georgia is such an active child who loves to run, twirl, jump, climb, and somersault. I get excited and pour over local gymnastic schedules...but ultimately resist the pull. Why? On one hand I want her to socialize with peers, have other teachers, and burn some energy out. On the other hand I know from experience that once the classes begin, they are that much harder to stop. I abhor the constraints of a summer schedule and ultimately resign myself to wait another six months. Am I making a mistake or wisely preserving these last months of just us, without schedules, and our cavalier moods?

Ultimately I know there will be time soon enough for classes. We are choosing balance, old fashioned park time, and backyard somersaults in the meantime. All too quickly fall will be here and classes may begin.

Sunshine

Today we basked in the 65 degree weather. I took the kids to Whole Foods and shopped while they munched on Auntie Anne's Bunny crackers. I couldn't resist the weather (and Georgia chanting, "PARK, PARK, PARK!") so we stopped by the park on the way home from the store. I layed out a blanket in the sun and we snacked on our crackers and pizza while watching all of the activity around us. It appeared that everyone was out; a family with their twins, new puppy's, and strolling grandparents. Georgia took full advantage of the swings, slides, and sandbox. Theo serenely chewed on crackers and pizza crust, flexing his bare toes in the breeze.

It was another perfect day with the little kids, one I am unbelievable grateful to have experienced.

French Story Time

Today I took the kids to a local story time, spoken in french. In theory this sounds lovely, educational, and sophisticated. In reality it wasn't. I suppose we did sing the "head and shoulder's" song, which even I could do. Georgia mainly twirled around looking at everything besides the books being read. Theo had a poo in the middle so I had to excuse us, find a changing table, and then change him. It wasn't the most educational of experiences but I suppose it met us where we are at.

I do feel like we got the following out of it:
1. to expose Georgia to other kids of varying ages
2. to hear another language spoken by a native speaker
3. to seek out free and unusual activities in our community

Upon reflection, I realized that Kate could be speaking some french to them at home. I will be asking her to sing french songs to them and using some simple sentences/words with them. We have a french speaking resource in our own home~what a find!

Will we go again? Probably, since it is a monthly activity (first Wed. of the month). It has to get better and/or easier...right?