Although I am always jotting down titles of books or links to blogs for later research, it’s getting close to the time of year to organize all those notes and jumbled ideas, to explore my options and nail down my list of books and supplies to order for the new year.  Which ones are a “must”?  Which ones need to be saved for another time?  There are SO many wonderful resources available and SO many good recommendations, that the task can seem daunting.  I get so excited when I come across something new and fun that I’ve read about on someone’s blog, or that’s been recommended by another homeschool mom.   I want to pursue them all.  After all, I want my kiddos to have every opportunity to learn!  I don’t want them to miss a thing!

We are using the Charlotte Mason (CM) approach in our schooling and have LOVED Ambleside Online (AO).  I discovered this approach and curriculum before my eldest began 2nd grade.  He is in 5th grade this year and I am absolutely thrilled with every facet of the CM approach!  We are still learning and tweaking our style to become more in line with Charlotte Mason’s ideas, but we’re getting there.  So, for new year purchasing, I put an all-inclusive list of books and supplies into an Excel spreadsheet, beginning with the book list provided on AO, and I include prices and the names of the stores where I’ve found them and submit this to our Principal (aka ‘Daddy’).  This helps a lot so we can narrow down the list to fit within our budget.  AO also provides a 36-week schedule for each year, so after reviewing the schedule, I compile all of my subjects and begin on my lesson plans.  Aahhh…organization.  It feels good to get all of that chaos of ideas into order!

Summer definitely gives us the break we need to get refreshed and excited about a new year of school.  By springtime we’re looking forward to that rest from our daily schedule and to more ‘free time’, but by August we’re antsy to see what the new year holds for us.  As a matter of fact, when our new books begin to arrive mid-summer my eldest is ready to jump in.  *Smile*  I love it!  He asks if he can do a lesson (um…YES!) and he is off and running!  Summer…definitely the break we need!

So, don’t be afraid to get started.  Even if you’re just beginning and don’t have any notes to organize, if you feel the Lord is leading you on this path, seek Him for guidance.  Then start simple, trust me, you will learn a LOT along the way and every year you’ll feel more comfortable about making school decisions.  And seek out a homeschooling mom, we love to help others get started on this path.  But I warn you, once you begin you may fall head over heels in love with this journey!  We have been tremendously blessed by following God’s lead on this one and I thank Him regularly.