Ive made a decision...

I have talked it over with Manny, and run the idea past a few friends who's opinions I value and who's perspectives and needs vary. I think that over the next year I am going to be trying to launch an Association of Homeschool families called the Albuquerque Homeschool Enrichment Community. That "C" word could change from community, to collective or cooperative, Im not certain on that yet.

Im just so frustrated by the sense that because we homeschool our children have limited resources, or opportunities to participate and excel in various areas. Also I believe that one of the main reasons so many families end up opting for middle school placement is because there simply isnt the community nor the opportunities in the mid and high school homeschool community that they feel their children should have. I agree. When I look at the websites for the $16,000.00 per year private schools in our area and around the country I am dazzled by the opportunities and resources that my children could have. I start to dream about them each being able to pursue their interests and being supported by an overall organization and "spirit" that comes from being a part of a school or a larger organization. But, the truth is that the only reason we dont have those opportunities and resources is because we simply are not organized. If everyone volunteers and puts in what they can (efforts, vision, creativity) we could have such an incredible path for our children to enjoy walking. They could explore their varied interests and still get a solid, advanced education.

So, there it is. Im gonna give it a whirl. We'll see how it unfolds. It isnt something I can do by myself so a large part of the success will stem from the reaction of the community and if they choose to embrace the idea and jump in to help it to grow.

I was laying in bed this morning with a sleeping little two year old boy laying snuggled up to my side and as he slept I just watched him and thought about how something like this could greatly enrich his life once he gets older and the group is up and running. If I can just make this time investment now, how wonderful it will be not only for my big guys in the next few years, but for my three younger kids in the long run. I feel like I at least have to try.