Why I am Blogging Again

I know, it seems strange that my very first post mentions that I am blogging again, when obviously this is the first post. What newcomers may not know is that for 8 years I blogged prolifically. My very first blog was called Our Busy Homeschool and it certainly kept me busy. Between sharing about homeschooling, mothering, having many pregnancies, and doing curriculum and book reviews I had more to write about than I had time to write. During my 13th pregnancy I closed down that blog. I was weary and the blog had become one more 'to do' on a list that needed cut back as I nurtured a new life on the heels of an ectopic pregnancy. I needed rest, both mentally and physically. That pregnancy went well and mid-way through last school year I gave birth to my 9th child. (I've had 3 miscarriages along with the ectopic pregnancy I mentioned earlier.) Which brings me to the topic of this post - why am I blogging again, and why on a new blog?

In one word, encouragement. I find it encouraging to look back through blog posts and see what we have been through and accomplished in a year. For some reason I'm a dreadful journal writer, inconsistent, with gaping holes where entire weeks or months are missing. I find blogging to be more compelling. I enjoy it, even if no one else ever reads a word I write.

I also want to keep a record of these mundane, holy, beautifully overwhelming days teaching and raising my children. There is more happening in my home in one week than I could ever remember a year or five years from now, unless I write it down. I love hearing stories of the past and want my children to have a record to read to their grandchildren of their growing up years.

I also hope others find my posts encouraging. Homeschooling is a big adventure, as is mothering a large family. I know how much I have benefitted at being a fly on the wall of someone else's homeschool through reading their blog. I get ideas of what might work for my family - and what might not.

What will you find here at Homeschooling Large Family Style?

A little bit of everything! Writing is my way to decompress, to spill out all the thoughts and ideas bouncing around in my mind. I'm a bit random and repetitive because I value routine. Our days often proceed one after another in an orderly, predictable fashion. If you find that boring don't feel obligated to continue reading.  I promise it won't offend me in the slightest!

If you are interested in seeing some of the day to day life in a large homeschooling family you have come to the right place. We have always homeschooled our children. It's been a grand adventure full of more blessings and stretching moments than I ever thought possible. I've learned more teaching my children than I ever learned in school.

You will also soon find out that I'm opinionated about what is right for me and my family. No, I don't think everyone should homeschool, have 9 children, or eat dark chocolate. I do believe that homeschooling is the best option for my family and that every family should choose the best educational option for their children. I do believe that children are always a blessing from God and am grateful for each of mine. As for dark chocolate - I'm glad to be the only one in my house that loves it because then nobody eats my chocolate.