Monthly Archives: December 2009

Bloody Knuckles

One of those important socialization phenomena that I missed until high school was a game they called Quarters. No, not the drinking game. Students at my school played the version that drew blood. I was reminded of this less-than-sanitary pastime … Continue reading

Leave a comment

The Early Years - Phonics

Teaching a child to learn to read is, IMHO, one of the most satisfying tasks of homeschooling. Watching understanding dawn on your student's face as they finally are able to read their first sentence, and then their first easy reader … Continue reading

Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Trouble Starting

The engine grinds and sputters. The windows are laced with tendrils of hoar frost. Outside the predawn has yet to penetrate the cold blanket of clouds. "Come on," I mutter. My breath is ghostly in the half-light. I turn the … Continue reading

2 Comments

Learning Beyond School

Imagine a world where school is the only place to learn. You can't learn in your home. You gain no new skills, applicable knowledge or information at work. Church is a place for "fellowship" but teaching is nonexistent. You only … Continue reading

2 Comments

Work Boots and Curriculum

I spent most of today in my socks. This reminded me of my homeschool days. You don't have to wear shoes if you're doing work in the living room. But I wasn't in my living room. I was here at … Continue reading

2 Comments

The Early Years - Math

Let's face it, some kids are born with the math gene, and some just aren't. I personally missed out on that valuable piece of genetic material, but fortunately at least one of our children inherited his dad's ease with math. … Continue reading

Tagged | 1 Comment

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Have you ever watched your children say "I'm sorry" when they clearly don't mean it? I just spent a wonderful week with my children and grandchildren, and the idea of family and forgiveness is on my mind. We had the … Continue reading

Leave a comment