It Is Bitter and It Is Sweet

Today was Chirpee's end of the year preschool party. 

 Dimple is typically a little overwhelmed by new places and faces.  After insisting on me holding him for the first 20 minutes or so, I put him on the ground and he walked right up to this man and patted his legs.  The man talked with him a bit, Dimple was happily jabbering to him and he finally picked him up and set him on his knee.  They continued to play with playdough for nearly an hour together.  I thought of taking Dimple back, but they both actually seemed to be having a ball together. 

 Chirpee was enamored with the semi and trailer.  The addition of pink playdough for a ramp was a major bonus as pink is his current favorite color. 

 A little story time was attempted, but never really accomplished.  Too much extraneous noise and kids who just wanted a snack.

 Part (most) of Chirpee's class.  Please excuse the nose picking...no one pictured is over four years old (she's darn cute anyway).

Chirpee receiving his certificate of completion from his teachers.  They also had a neat book for the kids filled with pictures from the year of school together. 

Sweet - well it was.  Chirpee loved his school this year.  He had a lot of fun and it was nice to see him get to know more of the kids around the area.  He's learned a few more songs and games and had some fun crafts and field trips. 

The bitter.  I am just torn as to what to do with him next year.  I hate making decisions.  Part of me wants him to continue another year of preschool a day a week.  The other part of me isn't sure that it won't end up making him a little sad that he won't be going to the "big school" the following year with his classmates.  I want him to be excited about home schooling and at age 4/5 what can he understand about the reasons we are keeping him home? 

On my walk tonight I was reflecting on how this past year God has been building a foundation of conviction about our decision to home school.  The future is overwhelming to me from this vantage point.  I don't spend time thinking on it much.  I just remember that it isn't happening now, but I keep on praying, researching and the Lord keeps on convincing my heart and mind about the benefits of home schooling children. 

Oh well!  We'll see what happens.  Tonight I just need to go to bed.  These days I can hardly keep my eyes open.