MY ESTRANGED MOTHER REACHED OUT TO ME (AND HERE IS WHAT HAPPENED)

My estranged mother recently "reached out" to me via Facebook Messenger. I was hopeful, for some signs of remorse, and expressions of "motherly love", so I made the mistake of engaging with her. I should have known better, but I suppose I am eternally optimistic.

GRIEVING AN ESTRANGED PARENT

My father recently passed away, and we had been estranged for most of my adult life, by his choice, much more than mine. I tried many times over his lifetime, to have some kind of relationship, but he didn't desire to have one with me. That broke my heart beyond words. Every child both desires and deserves, the love and approval of their parent.  No child should ever have to beg their parent for a relationship. The last time I had seen or spoken to him, was on Thanksgiving Day, two and half years prior. I am eternally grateful that was my final memory of him, because it was actually a positive one. He was uncharacteristically kind and loving that day. We said goodbye to each other, with a (rarely occurring) embrace, and I suppose that is the closest thing to closure I will ever get. 

HOMESCHOOLING: 4TH GRADE SCHEDULE AND CURRICULUM

This is our first year homeschooling, after doing public school from grades k-3.  Colton is currently 9 years old, and he’s in the 4th grade. Because he is used to a public school format, I am taking what is referred to as a "Traditional" approach to homeschooling. Our youngest is 3, and I plan on beginning homeschooling with him as well, once he turns 4-5 years old. For now, we are taking it year by year. My curriculum choices will likely change for next year, or I might decide to switch things up mid-year!