Mind Map the Month

My 7th grade English teacher taught us to make this spaceship-y thing to organize our thoughts before writing.  He probably showed us some other methods, too, but...

One of the reasons I love homeschooling is that we have time and freedom to participate in and organize activities that suit our interests.  Ideally, I'd create accompanying activities for them to extend our learning, as well as our enjoyment.  We like these things after all!  In my real life, well, it was still a lovely experience, in and of itself.

With a little breathing room after the holidays, I felt refreshed enough to notice my calendar sitting in front of me -- on my desk.  (How this happened I can't imagine.)  And, ah-ha, a clean sheet of paper AND a sharpened pencil.  Well, the universe was certainly rooting for me that day.

I got started on a little mind map (or, spaceship-y thing, whichever you prefer).  By jotting down classes, performances, and events we already have planned, I can see some rich (and easy!) opportunities to have more impact on our homeschooling.  A little more focus -- and on the things we planned because we enjoy them!  It works better than a calendar or to-do list.  It's like... quirky art that makes friendly suggestions.