Sometimes, parenthood is a giant game of following your stream
of consciousness. We run around, tending
to children, pets, chores, responsibilities, errands, and the world in
general. The end of the school year looms
in the near future, like a dangling carrot.
Warmer weather and blue skies tease us, alternating with so many rainy, gloomy
days. Pools begin to open, calling to us
like sirens waiting to be visited. Yet we
still need to focus on matters at hand, so we can’t get too caught up in what
lies ahead. I find myself fractured,
thinking thoughts that are truly here, there, and everywhere. So much to think about, so little time. Here’s what’s on my mind today.
Once Upon a Time
We started watching the show as a family about a
month ago. I didn’t have high hopes
because I knew that I couldn’t have handled any kind of suspense at my kids’
ages, and didn’t think they could, either.
To my surprise, they love
it. So much so that we always watch two
in a row, with them begging for more. I find
them reading snippets about the show online, announcing “spoiler alert!” if
they come across something we don’t yet know.
It’s began a fun weeknight tradition of curling up on the couch
together, and the resulting discussions as we analyze the show are deep and
meaningful.
Manchester
My kids have gotten old enough that they hear about
current events whether I want them to or not.
My older daughter has been consumed with the recent Manchester bombing, asking
so many questions and researching the tragedy.
I feel so sad, both for the victims of the event and the children of our
future, who have to grow up knowing that these types of happenings are
commonplace.
Year-end testing
Yes, homeschooled kids participate in standardized
testing (I get asked that all of the time).
We use the CAT6/Terranova2 test,
not unlike the tests that most of us grew up taking. The test is rented from a testing company (we use Seton) and arrives in the mail. Just like in school, we administer it in
sections over the course of a few days, then send it in to be scored. We’re
more than halfway through now, and looking forward to being done. Most homeschooled kids, mine included, find
the testing process fascinating, since it’s kind of like a peek into the
mainstream schooling world.
Life after loss
As I’ve shared before, we had a really rough
2016. In a six month period, both of my grandmothers
and our two 15 year-old cats passed away.
Life goes on, but leaves the family members forever changed. Each “first” milestone (birthdays, holidays)
has been a challenge, and we’ve learned to rely on one another to get through
it. I think of these loved ones every
day, and always look for a way to honor their spirits while healing myself and
my family.
Summer
Summer is almost here. After a full year of schooling and
activities, I intentionally don’t plan much for the summer months. If my kids desire, they participate in an art camp through the school district.
Their dance classes continue, and we spend lots of time outdoors. We spend many days on hikes, bike rides, day trips, and visiting friends and family. My husband BBQs as often as
humanly possible, and I make sure we find our way to waterfalls, the Hudson
River, and even the ocean if I can swing it.
I’ve been more immune to the rapidly-approaching warmer weather than
usual, perhaps because I’ve had so much else on my mind. But it’ll be here soon. Sweet summer, warm breezes, blue skies. Let's savor every moment.
What’s on your mind lately? Comment below to share with our readers.
Other articles by Stephanie Sandler