Friday, February 6, 2009

Friday's Five: Geri

Welcome to Friday's Five, my weekly feature in which I ask a fabulous blogger five questions.

I'm visiting today with Geri from saddlepotatoes. If my photos of snow and moose send you running far, far away from Alaska, then Geri's pictures of dogs and horses and the beautiful lake near her home will lure you back. She writes with warmth and gentle humor about raising miniature horses, showing her purebred Corgi, homeschooling her children, and leading an altogether interesting life in one of the most scenic spots on earth.


1. What are your children's ages, and do they have any favorite music CDs at the moment?

Lex is 22, Chena is 11, and Penelope is 10. Lex loves Rascal Flatts (ha ha, finally brought him over to the country side!), Chena loves Toby Mac, and Penelope likes Steven Curtis Chapman. The girls like a little bit of everything, like me.


2. Tell us a little about what your kids have learned by raising animals.

Well, I'd say they have learned to be unselfish . . . because there are many times when our ten pets need care, and it's not convenient . . . but they need us. And they come first. I always tell the girls that the animals are counting on us, and they trust us to care for them, and we will not let them down. The girls have learned responsibility, and they have also learned a LOT about vet care, nutrition for the horses, rabbits, cats, dogs, etc. Right now the girls have started teaching our Corgi how to run agility, and they do weekly classes which they really get enthused about.


3. Occasionally, I'll find myself in a discussion about elementary education with someone who insists that homeschooled children are missing out on the "socialization" that a traditional school setting provides. What's your opinion?

Well, that is somewhat a myth. (I used to teach school, and homeschooling was generally frowned upon because it takes federal dollars out of the school.) It's a rare homeschool home that is "isolated" at all. All of the homeschool homes I know are very involved in the community, field trips, etc. And to be honest, some of that "socialization" they are missing I am more than happy to miss out on! Instead of trying to "fit in" to a classroom situation, I am keeping the girls deeply rooted in their own family, so their sense of self comes from the people who love them most .  . . and that gives them the confidence to take on the rest of their world. It's definitely working in our home, but I cannot speak for every situation.


4. What one piece of advice would you give to someone who's thinking about starting a blog?

I would say don't start one unless you plan to keep it updated fairly regularly . . . because I love to visit a blog where I know it will be updated, and I can follow the plot more easily! Also, to let your blog be a reflection of who you are, be honest, and have fun with it.


5. What did you have for dinner last night?

We had spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad at a church dinner.


Thank you, Geri! I think it's wonderful that your girls are growing up around animals and are learning so much from having to care for them—what an interesting and special childhood you are providing them. And you make an excellent point about a homeschooled child's sense of self coming from those who love him or her the most. 

See everyone back here next week when we get to know another great blogger!



6 comments:

Lana@The Kids Did WHAT?! said...

YAY!! a few months back I was reading her blog. I somehow lost her link and didn't know how to get back. I guess I had found her through you.

I briefly considered hoemschooling, but it definitly is not for everyone. I couldn't do it!

Off to add her link now. So glad I found her again. (I guess YOU found her for me!) ☺

Lana@The Kids Did WHAT?! said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
twinmamabee said...

What a treat! I get to read about two of my favorite blog authors at the same time!

I always enjoy Geri's blog and am fascinated by the beauty of not only their surroundings outdoors, but the beauty they have as a family within their home.

Also, Geri's view on socialization and homeschooling is so right on. I know several people who are successfully homeschooling their children and I am considering it as long as I don't have to work outside the home when the girls are older.

Helene said...

What a great interview! I love her perspective on how she's raising her children. Their lifestyle sounds so easygoing and peaceful!!!

glitzen said...

Thank you Kim. I am so honored that you interviewed me!
Stopping by your blog always makes my day, its the first one I click on out of a loooong list of favs. Your witty sense of humor, and your adorable kiddos (and funny too!)are just a fun part of my day.
Thanks again!
~geri~

3 Bay B Chicks said...

This is such a great weekly topic. Honestly, one of the best I have seen in a long time. Always wonderful to learn about bloggers that I have not heard of before, and Geri seems to be no exception.

When you have a chance, check out our site. You have been tagged:

http://3baybchicks.blogspot.com/2009/02/whats-love-got-to-do-with-it.html

-Francesca