Muffins on the Fly

Today was a dreary, rainy day. I didn't get any laundry done. With the washing machine and dryer out in the garage, I couldn't bring myself to go thru the storm to get there :(

Another thing I've come across since allowing the kids to go to school this year is the craziness associated with class parties. All of my four kids have to bring something their christmas party. Don't get me wrong. They love school. Really really love school. And they are all excited for the parties. It's just that I have zero dollars (literally, zero) until next payday. It's such a burden to just not be able to get the stuff they need right away. But, I am really trying not to let it bring me down.

I will have a payday before the gift swap day. Not that I really can afford to pay $5 per child for a gift as well as provide a food and drink for each class. With 4 children, it adds up. That was something I miss about homeschooling. For the past 5 years, we never had to worry about that.

But, the decision to put them in school was not made without council from above. Not every christian SAHM must be a homeschooler. Though the majority of people I associate with are, it's simply not where I am in my life right now. God opened many doors for us and provided us with fabulous teachers, as well as some grant money for 2 of the children. I am pleased with everything so far.

The kids are having a great time each day. They are learning SO much more than what we did at home. The exposure is not "horrible" , contrary to what I had believed it to be. And I was really suffering from burnout. I know there are many moms out there who have suffered as well, but it was just my time. I do not take things lightly, and this definitely was not a spur of the moment act. We all just got to the point that we were ready to pull each other's hair out. We needed a breathe of fresh air. And yes, I've tried taking a break from school for a bit. I tried doing nature walks and notebooking and lapbooking and unschooling. It was all fun for a bit. But, it wasn't the solution.

So after much prayer, and long talks, we decided to try school. Every step of the whole process was prayed over. God's hand was in it, and it's been great. I am not looking too far ahead as to what the future holds concerning school. I could very well homeschool them all again next year. Or I could just homeschool a few.Only God knows at this point. Like I said, I don't look too far into the future. It just brings me worry.

Whatever I do, I want it to be the right thing. And only God knows the path ahead of us. I just trust that He will see us through.