first post here with a big question/large family

[angela&4boys]

Thank you so much Julie! Sometimes I'm overwhelmed at the faith of this board. I really believe the Lord has been teaching me to wait on Him. I used to be more impulsive about homeschool decisions, but am learning to be quiet and listen. I'm already feeling a peace and covet your prayers!!!

In Him,

[my3sons]

Thank you so much Julie! Sometimes I'm overwhelmed at the faith of this board. I really believe the Lord has been teaching me to wait on Him. I used to be more impulsive about homeschool decisions, but am learning to be quiet and listen. I'm already feeling a peace and covet your prayers!!!

In Him,

I just prayed for you - God will answer; He always does!
Julie

[kayben]

Well I just got a reluctant go ahead from DH to keep them all home next year. So Pray for me please. I have such a tugging at my heart to have them here with me, but I am able to accomplish much when they are gone I am determined to do this as unto the Lord and trust His leading.

So. Carrie recommended to do Preparing for my 3rd and 6th grader with the extension pack. (would I need to add a writing program?) Or just R&S 5 and DITHOR?
I will also be doing Little Hearts for His Glory with my 1st and almost 5 year old for K. (Which phonics program does everyone reccommend? Reading Made Easy? I like the idea of the index card games?) I ordered Little hands to Heaven last week before my note from Carrie and she recommends I hold off with this until Abby and Cooper can use it together next year. (2010) But when I get it will I be able to set it aside

So. The last two times I tried this it was only with one or two kids and I wasn't able to pull it off, I gave up, and sent them back to school. Now, I am still not sure I am cut out for this, but I feel it to be in the Lord's will. I know I feel peace about this curriculum and I have asked DH to not let me give up, but to pray with me and offer encouragement when things seem difficult. Thanks for your replys and your kind words.

also, as of now this will be the first attempt without a new baby in the mix!! lol

Blessings Ladies,
Rebecca

[juliekay]

keyben,

Just a word about WP vs. HOD as I have switched mid-year from WP - maybe we're in the same boat. I just got bogged down with the schedule and load of work that I was doing in WP or perhaps I should say I was getting bogged down by the work that wasn't getting done according to the schedule! I also agree with your comments concerning HOD and the fact that Christ is brought into the center of learning - not just and "add on". We are currently using Bigger with extensions & I am happy to report that is has made our homeschool day more like I always imagined it should be. We are learning together as a family keeping Christ at the center - not just in our daily devotional! Welcome to HOD!

[Carrie]

Rebecca,

I'd hold off on a writing program and just use what is scheduled within Preparing Hearts for writing for your kiddos. Combined with Rod and Staff, the writing within Preparing Hearts will give you solid coverage.

I would recommend beginning Preparing Hearts and Little Hearts at half-speed to start out, doing the left side one day and the right side the next. Then, after a couple of weeks, I'd bump one of the programs up to full speed (most likely Preparing Hearts). Then, a bit later, I'd bump the other program up to full speed. If need be, you could actually keep Little Hearts at half-speed for awhile, while you hit your stride with Preparing Hearts.

I know that you can do this! Just ease on into it a bit at a time.

Blessings,
Carrie

[kayben]

Julie,

Thank you so much, I thought I recognized your name. I have reminded myself like ten times not to buy any extras. I am going to use the programs as written. I am so excited and nervous as prepare for the fall. I can't wait. And after day two of LHTH I am adoring that program. I will be keeping it up at least until school is out and then see where I am in the Fall with using a 3rd program. But it only takes about a half hour with everything and the girls are loving it!!
Thanks for understanding. I think I have finally found the greener grass. And it is because Christ is central and school is short, sweet, and complete!

Rebecca

keyben,

Just a word about WP vs. HOD as I have switched mid-year from WP - maybe we're in the same boat. I just got bogged down with the schedule and load of work that I was doing in WP or perhaps I should say I was getting bogged down by the work that wasn't getting done according to the schedule! I also agree with your comments concerning HOD and the fact that Christ is brought into the center of learning - not just and "add on". We are currently using Bigger with extensions & I am happy to report that is has made our homeschool day more like I always imagined it should be. We are learning together as a family keeping Christ at the center - not just in our daily devotional! Welcome to HOD!

[kayben]

Oh my goodness. I just love good advice to help my sanity! I seem to think I have to be able to do it all, and now. I love this idea of taking it slow to get started! Thanks you. What an amazing company when the author jumps in to ease our minds and give solid practical advice.
Thank you
Rebecca

Rebecca,

I'd hold off on a writing program and just use what is scheduled within Preparing Hearts for writing for your kiddos. Combined with Rod and Staff, the writing within Preparing Hearts will give you solid coverage.

I would recommend beginning Preparing Hearts and Little Hearts at half-speed to start out, doing the left side one day and the right side the next. Then, after a couple of weeks, I'd bump one of the programs up to full speed (most likely Preparing Hearts). Then, a bit later, I'd bump the other program up to full speed. If need be, you could actually keep Little Hearts at half-speed for awhile, while you hit your stride with Preparing Hearts.

I know that you can do this! Just ease on into it a bit at a time.

Blessings,
Carrie

[water2wine]

It sounds like you are getting all your questions answered. I am not sure if I said it before but welcome. I think you are going to find that HOD fits very well with a large family. It is opposite in thinking of many programs out there since it meets each child at every level but I fond that works so much better than trying to mold all the needs in a one size fits all program. I also have one with learning issues and I have found HOD has so much flexibility I am able to meet her at all her needs. The program has been a huge blessing. I am not doing three programs but I could easily see three especially if one is LHTH and the highest is on the more independent level as you have it. I think if you combine as much as possible and yet still make sure you meet them at their needs you are going to find the perfect for all your lovies. I have kids on both ends from extremely bright to special needs and they all get met right where they need. Most importantly we deal with character daily and daily they grow closer to Him and in knowing Him more deeply. You're going to love it.

[spidermansmum]

Im delighted your getting to homeschool all of them soon.
God Bless you in your homeschooling