See...today I picked up my daughters' friend from her school to have a play date while her Mom (one of my best friends), finished up work. I will admit I was sad when I walked through to the office, down the hall, to the gym, to the playground, and back to the classroom. I was able to see this little girl in her element, playing with friends in a structured environment. I was sad because I haven't been able to see Aerianna like this because we have currently chosen to Homeschool our kids.
Background: I am not against parents who choose to put their kids in public/private school. Both Tony and I were in public school from K-12 grade. We however, have chosen to Homeschool for the time being for many reasons. Tony works on the extra board as a Train Dispatcher. He does not have a set schedule and often does not find out what his shift is until that current day. One week he worked all afternoon shifts M-F, (3:30pm-11:30pm). If the kids were in school away from home, when would Tony have time to spend with them? Getting them ready in the morning and the weekend? This didn't settle right with Tony or I, so we did a K-4 (Kindergarten for 4 year olds) program at home with Aerianna last year. Everyone in our house responded well so we continued with K-5 (Kindergarten for 5 year olds) this year. Our kids get a lot of social interaction, and anyone who has met them knows this.... This is ONE of many reasons we decided to Homeschool. I don't feel it's necessary to go into the other reasons right now.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy with our current decision but I was sad today when I really stopped and thought about it. I love to watch my children interact with their friends, experience new things, and grow. But I don't get this opportunity outside of the home with the activities we do have besides sports. So back to the topic....I was thrilled to stay with Aeri and be that fly on the wall. I loved watching her try new things...succeed...laugh. I loved her excitement...her glowing smile...her eagerness to learn and her genuine heart. You honestly have no idea how this made me feel...I can't even describe it. It made my day, week, month, and year. It made me realize that what we are doing is O.K. and a good choice for our family and that she will be just fine Homeschooling.
I am happy I followed my heart and stayed tonight to hang out with Aeri. It really enlightened me. I have a feeling I will be doing this a lot more in the near future.
Here is my sweet Aeri!! 5 years old!
Sarah Wornath Photography
