Beginning another week!

Here it is, another Monday. I have a new addition to my site- an introduction to a web store. A good friend of mine has put her creative juices into making quality, beautiful modern baby bib, blankets and burp cloths and quilts and "rag" bags, and much more. She can customize almost anything to fit your need or taste. I couldn't pass up the chance to show off her stuff! So, if you are looking for a gift item that won't be duplicated by anyone else, check out her site.

We start another week of school today. Our continual march forward is producing some good results. The kids have been doing well in their vocabulary and grammar lessons. I finally found curriculum that "fits" us. I also discovered how to make a chore list on this Homeschool program I have so the fridge is full of computer-generated graphs and to-do lists!!! Just what this detail freak needs!

The kids have spent many happy days playing with friends. Their social network hasn't suffered with homeschooling...it is almost laughable to think that some people are under that assumption. I drive here, there, and everywhere to provide enrichment. Most homeschoolers do the same. I am writing with a little bit of a bite because of a report that has come out from the NEA about homeschooling. This organization is clueless and is NOT looking out for children. It is an agenda-driven monster that seeks to manipulate people- through ridiculous proclamations. I have added a clip of their report:

B-75. Home Schooling
The National Education Association believes that home schooling programs based on parental choice cannot provide the student with a comprehensive education experience. When home schooling occurs, students enrolled must meet all state curricular requirements, including the taking and passing of assessments to ensure adequate academic progress.

Home schooling should be limited to the children of the immediate family, with all expenses being borne by the parents/guardians. Instruction should be by persons who are licensed by the appropriate state education licensure agency, and a curriculum approved by the state department of education should be used.

The Association also believes that home-schooled students should not participate in any extracurricular activities in the public schools.

The Association further believes that local public school systems should have the authority to determine grade placement and/or credits earned toward graduation for students entering or re-entering the public school setting from a home school setting. (1988, 2006)

Blah...I have a bad taste in my mouth!!!!!!!! If homeschooling "CANNOT PROVIDE THE STUDENT WITH A COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE", then how can all the successes of homeschoolers be accounted for? This is a joke.

O.K.....I'm done with that.

Our zoo is doing fine, too. Bunny and Job are finding ways to co-exist....one upstairs and one down. We gave Bunny a little more freedom to run around Martha's bedroom and he really liked it. He looked like Peter Rabbit hopping and dancing. He hopped over to me for one little snuggle and then went flying across the room. He loves to hide in dark, enclosed places (surprise!) and found a little niche under Martha's dresser. It is always good to have a safe zone..just in case.

We have our co-op meeting today. Martha and the other young people are going to choose a new book for their book club. What a good way to encourage reading!! Their book discussions sound very adult-like.

Time for me to go. I have to review my article before sending it in this a.m. I always get the jitters over this stuff.

Have a good week, everyone!!