Emotions (week 5)

Owen resting on Charles after his dental procedure

It's a funny thing that happens when people find out I'm homeschooling the kids. I hear a lot, "Wow, you're brave!" or "Oh, I could never do that, I'd never have the patience." or "Oh, are you a teacher by trade?" No, I'm not brave, I don't have the patience, and no, I am not trained to be an elementary teacher. And there are times that I beat myself up for all of those things, and other times when I realize it's just a practice in dependence on God for everything.
I was very emotional this week for several reasons. During last weekend, Owen had dental work done, and I had to literally sign his life away for him to be sedated. Sure, if he dies, I won't blame you- what??? So, I started out this week with the relief that Owen had made it through the procedure, Owen in pain and extra needy, and Leif tired of tiptoeing around his brother, etc. I found my energy was low, and my head was foggy.
I didn't prepare and we didn't get to many of the things I had hoped we would get to.

Leif setting up a picture for his book.

In the midst of this, early Wednesday morning,  Leif came to me and said, "I have a story. Will you write it down while I tell it to you?" And right there he made up a story. I just typed and kept saying, "Then what happened?" Now we're working on taking pictures to illustrate the story, and he's decided that when he grows up, he's going to be an author. So there, in the midst of me not measuring up to any type of standard, Leif had the freedom to be creative. I will publish the book on my blog as soon as it is ready. Leif says he wants to sell his book for $10 each, but no $10 bills, please. (Does he have the makings to be an artist, or what?)

Exploring the foundation of an old building.

We came across a herd of deer in the woods by Kennesaw Mt.

We also got to hike at Kennesaw Mountain with some friends. One of the perks of home school for me, other than lots of outdoor time with my kids, is that as Leif learns things like history and science, I'll get to explore subjects that are interesting to me now, but weren't when I was younger.

Owen finally feeling better mid-week.