I've started planning and reviewing for the new year! The boys will start their enrichment program in mid-August, and we'll start our studies at the same time. I know the boys are ready as they both pulled out workbooks this week on their own and started doing some work. N is asking to learn time and is interested and eager.

I went through the homeschooling cabinet in the hallway and discovered many things I had completely forgotten about! An entire pack of 12x15 paper! An entire BOX of coloring books of famous artists and desert scenes and more! 2 mini greenhouses! Pretend snow! Our good binoculars!

It was quite the revelation, and I was reminded how last year wasn't necessarily very filled with extra activities. Oh, well, there's always this year!

There are about $100 worth of textbooks I need to purchase before we start, but I'm trying to see if I can narrow that down and make another order in a few months. I have to make a final decision about math (do I stick with MCP or try the Seton math books this year?)

Yesterday I began tackling the enormous task of sorting through our children's books. I emptied 3 bookshelves and set aside one box for donations. I organized and sorted and made categories for the remaining books -- and then realized that I still had about 150 books scattered throughout the house that I somehow need to fit onto the shelves. I think we have plenty of reading material for all 3 kids, but I still wonder if I should buy a few readers for N?

I'm getting excited and so are the boys. I'm creating a routine that we can stick with and I'm willing to be flexible when needed. It's going to be a fun year . . . especially as I realize that it may be our last year homeschooling. While I would love to continue, I may need to find outside employment that won't work well with homeschooling. I intend to enjoy this year to its fullest!