Internet Academy

First day slogging through orientation, which is all text on a white background of steps to get started. Then a quiz (open site) on the steps.

Waiting and "refreshing" to get our submission back with comments so we can start classes which also haven't popped up. I finally call it a day and we do writing and a math worksheet.

Family Meetings

We have had several successful family meetings lately.

1. Meal behavior expectations
2. After school til bedtime schedule
3. Chores aka helping out Team Royce

I think it is essential to consultant parenting, with the stipulation that parents can over rule in the end. Then when the newness wears off we can point to the document and it is holding up--each of our signatures bearing witness to our agreement.

The Sneaky Chef

I have been using the cookbook The Sneaky Chef to get vegetables and other super foods into my kids, particularly one kid. And it is working, but I am also noticing that I am feeding them more chocolate chips to hide my veggies... hmmm, net health benefit?

Turkey burgers are the current family favorite, most other foods get the verdict (even if he liked it), "It's okay but I'd only want it--once a week/month" etc. In other words, please don't ask me to eat this leftover.

Because I ask for his feedback on food Benji seems to think I will actually adhere to his specs. He is surprised when after a tiring day meatballs from a previous meal reappear in Spaghetti, when he specifically allotted them a once a month status and he is eyeing the family meal agreement with disdain.

Home Schooling

So it is official, we are homeschooling through the public school internet academy. For the last two days we have been Mom-schooling, which Ian thinks is so cool, and although he appears unappreciative I have been getting alot more hugs and kisses (shocker) from Benjamin.