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I wanted to write in an update. I definitely count HOD as one of my very many blessings. This is our 2nd year using HOD and we are now using Preparing Hearts. I have seen so much growth in my kids. The slow, incremental steps that HOD takes really, really works! I am so excited to see their spelling improving with dictation (esp. my son who has atrocious spelling), their written narrations are improving every week thanks to Carrie's guidance and hand holding, their understanding of History, their ability to perform science experiments all on their own... I could go on and on.

One thing I appreciate the very most is the way this year really is giving us pegs to hang history on. I wasn't sure how that really works, but now I can see how very much this year is going to help us be ready for a more in-depth study of ancient history. Having this general background and knowledge will be a tremendous aid. I absolutely LOVE Grandpa's Box and CHOW. The kids wait eagerly for each day's reading. I have personally been so challenged in my faith as we study the O.T. stories and reflect on God's incredible power and greatness. I think I am learning and growing more than the kids. I never learned history this way -with Bible and world history intertwined and I can't say enough about it. I am so thrilled that my kids are learning this way!!!!

So, this year, I'm thankful for Carrie and all of the hard work and heart she has put into this curriculum. I pray for you regularly and ask that God bless your family and continue to bless the work of your hands.

Tiffini I am another one in the so thankful for HOD camp. We are also doing Preparing. This is my first year homeschooling my son. I was so worried that I wouldn't be able to meet my sons special needs as well as the school had, but I know God led me to this curriculum and I also see so much growth in him. The small step method works great for him. He has so much more confidence now than he did before. Last year I heard things like "I am stupid", "I am not a good writer", "I hate reading". Now I hear things like "God has made me special and he is going to use this shaky hand someday in a special way", "I love poetry", "I love this science book", "that is such a fun project". I could go on and on. When we went around the table and Thursday and said what we were thankful for, 2 items on my list were the ability to homeschool and HOD.

I'm tearing up here, ladies. This is so good to hear how God is blessing your homeschooling through your use of HOD. I too feel incredibly blessed to see the progress my dc are making - both academically and spiritually. God is so good! I know Carrie holds these words so close to her heart, and they spur her on in her writing. This is so timely as Mike and Carrie will be planning for HOD for next year - laying out who needs to do what, what needs to be done first, etc., praying about setting priorities, and planning for the future. Thanks, Tiffini and Lynn, for your encouragement here!

In Christ,
Julie

Tiffini and Lynn,

I am so glad that the Lord is blessing your homeschool efforts and that He is guiding your days. I was blessed beyond measure by your words of encouragement today! With the busyness of the school year, it can be challenging to get the needed time for me to work on writing a new guide. Yet, the Lord is faithful is giving us what we need and in providing encouragment when we need it most. Thanks so much for sharing! You touched my heart.

Blessings,
Carrie