There was a time

when I wondered if my 12 year old would EVER read! We homeschool and for us that doesn't mean we do "school" at home. We are VERY relaxed and prefer to learn when the kids are interested in something instead of forcing it on them when they could care less. We go on plenty of field trips, do science experiments, read aloud, lots and lots of things but we didn't push the reading. So, when my son went from reading 3 letter words to reading decent sized novels in just a few months, I was beyond ecstatic.

So, when our power unexpectedly went out a few nights ago, and all of my kids piled into the recliner for my oldest to read to them by candle and flashlight, I was delighted once again. Not only for the reading aspect of it, but they were squished TOGETHER in a chair, enjoying each other's company. To say that my kids don't usually get along is an understatement. Squabbling, screaming, hitting and crying are the norm around here.

These pictures are so far from being technically "good". I took them for ME and I'm ok with that.

When I was editing these, the song He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother was in my head. lol