Thanks everyone. Karen that is so sweet. I think about how close my three boys will get and it makes me happy.

Thanks for the reassurance, I needed it. So if your children only get together with their friends once or twice a week, do they ever get a little lonely on the days they don't or ask to see their friends more often?

Okay I know this sounds ridiculous, but my biggest fear about homeschooling is that my kids won't have any friends. I know there are lots of opportunities for socialization while homeschooling, but I just worry it won't be enough. I just joined a homeschooling group and they have a once a week park day and fieldtrips. My son just started soccer and I am also going to put him in karate and swim lessons. I just feel like it is not enough. I always question if I am doing the right think by homeschooling my children. I don't want to fail them and I don't want them to go through life not experiencing the joy of great friendships. How often do your kids hang out with their friends? Does anyone else worry about socialization? Do you ever have doubts about homeschooling? What do you fear most about homeschooling? What do you love most about homeschooling?

How does your family feel about you homeschooling your children? Was anyone's against it at first, but now completely supportive? We just started homeschooling and my family is completely against it.They think I am crazy for even considering it. My husbands family thinks it is great and loves the idea. In the end I know all that matters is what we decide as parents, but it would still be nice if my family was open to the idea and supportive of what we choose to do.

I didn't have any problems with any of my stuff being wavy. It did say that if it does that then the machine is too hot. Try turning off the machine and then starting it back up. It says to just use their laminating sheets, but I think it is all the same. I am going to just buy some random sheets this weekend to test it out. I really like the machine and haven't had any issues with it so far. It worked great for me. I hope you get it all figured out.

These are great, thanks.

I used it tonight and it works great!

I got this Purple Cow laminator at Costco for $18.99. It sells on Amazon for double the price. It comes with 100 laminating sheets, 40 letter size and 60 smaller sheets. http://www.amazon.com/Purple-Cows-3015C-Cold-Laminator/dp/B003VFIEFY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1282626654&sr=8-3 Just wanted to let everyone know in case you were in the market for a laminator. I have yet to use it, but I will tonight. I will let you know how I like it.

This is great, thanks!

If you used Story of the world, what history program did you move onto once your child was finished with it? If you are still using it, what are your plans once your child starts 5th grade? Thanks! ~P

Do you have any good book recommendations on books about manners and hygiene for ages 3-7? Thanks!

What are your plans this year for your kindergartner? Thanks!

Thanks!

Which books do you recommend from the Critical Thinking Company for a Kindergartner?

What grade/age did you start with a spelling program? Which is you favorite program? If you have tried more than one program, which is your least favorite? Thanks!

For those of you who are in homeschooling groups or co-ops how far do you travel for them? (15 min, 30, 45, etc)

Thanks!

When I looked up Ca laws, one option for homeschooling is filing a PSA. Here is what it said: annual private school affidavit: a. the instructors must be capable of teaching; b. the instruction must be in English; c. the instruction must be in the several branches of study required in public schools; d. attendance must be kept in a register; and e. a private school affidavit must be filed with the Superintendent of Public Instruction between Oct. 1 and Oct. 15 of each school year. Cal. Educ. Code §§ 33190, 48222. When it says I must keep attendance in a register, do I have to send it to someone at the end of the year? Is it just in case officials come knocking on my door? It also said: Compulsory Attendance Ages: “between the ages of 6†by Dec. 2 (§ 48200) and under 18 years of age.†California Education Code § 48200, 48400, 48410. Required Days of Instruction: 175 days, only for public schools. Required Subjects: English and must “offer instruction in the several branches of study required to be taught in the public schools.†Grades 1-6: English, mathematics, social sciences, science, fine arts, health, physical education. How many days of instruction do I need if 175 days is only for public schools? I read somewhere that you only need to keep track of absences, is this true? Thanks in advance. I am new at this.

I am in San Francisco.

At what age did you start? What manipulatives do you need, or did you purchase with your books? My son will be 5 the end of September. Should I start now or wait one more year?

Thanks!!!

I am trying to decide between Saxon K or McRuffy K. Does anyone use one of these? Do you like it? What don't you like about it if anything? Thanks!

How many days a week do you teach.... Math Phonics/Language Arts/Spelling/Handwriting Science History Art P.E. etc... Does anyone take Fridays off for fieldtrips or other activities?

What subjects did you do? What curriculum did you use? Thanks!

Thank you all so much for your help. I really appreciate it.