Freedom!

As I began to think about Veteran's Day and all that our soldiers have sacrificed over the years for the freedoms that we tend to take for granted, I was reminded of the new freedoms we are enjoying in our lives this year. 

Since we began homeschooling in 2007 we have been involved in extra curricular activities, swim, dance, soccer, co-op, etc.  Those things were fun but also kept us rooted to a strict schedule with no room for spontaneity, exploration or relaxation.

So when my Poogie injured  her knee and my kids left the world of dance back in February I was at a loss. I could not grasp the idea of not being involved in an outside activity. What would we do?  We have to do extra curricular activities!  Our world has to be structured!

After 8 months of trying to find something for that extra curricular hole in our schedule we found one.  Nothing.  That's right nothing.  We decided to enjoy life for the first time in 8 years. So we went to concerts, lots of concerts. We took day trips and explored. Took the time to try new activities and sports. But, above all we just took time to chill and enjoy life.

I still worried that our new found freedom was not appropriate. I thought that without those structured activities Poogie would not receive the experiences she needed to grow. Then, something awesome happened on our trip to Arkansas in October.  Poogie told me that these last 8 months were the best ever.  She loved exploring the world.  Learning things first hand, not just out of a book.  Experiencing everyday things like going to concerts, because her dance schedule had never really allowed for time to go or even hang with friends.  Yes, she missed dance at times, but not the lack of freedom. 

During all this time I was worried about loosing something, what we found is Freedom!  It just goes to show that what you think is right for you and your family sometimes can be the exact opposite.  You just need to have the courage to break away and try something new.