Homeschool Conventions, patches and lemons. Oh my!

Last weekend I went to my first ever homeschool convention and I was able to go with my dear friend and former college roomie.  She is special to me for so many reasons including being a very important person God placed in my life before my Dad passed away and introducing me to homeschooling when our son was born.  Our time at the convention was almost like being in college again, staying up late talking, etc.  We had so much fun!  
The speakers at the convention were well-chosen and all I heard were encouraging and offered insights and wisdom for the convention-goers.  I came home tired but edified and excited about what the Lord showed me.  Some things my husband and I chose to change right away but others will be changes that we will implement for the following year.  
I would encourage you to attend a homeschool conference or convention in your area if you can.  It was well worth the time.

On the homefront our son continues to excel in archery and shot for his national ranking.  He did well and we're so proud of him.  We are also seeing his real gifts shining especially in regards to his artistic nature.  

Dusty, our The Cat Chronicles kitty is 15 years old now!  As with humans he has developed some of those pesky senior health issues.  His asthma is stable right now which is a blessing.  But he is now on medicine for his hyperthyroidism and also for his early renal insufficiency.  I never knew how much my former nursing experience was going to come into play having pets!  But it's been fun incorporating Dusty's health issues into our school time here and teaching our son basically Biology and Anatomy.  It has started a fire in him so I have ordered Apologia's Human Anatomy book for us to begin on.  
If you can get to a homeschool convention do go.  Here are some recent pictures in no particular order.

Our son napping as his kitty, Fresca naps nearby

Dusty cuddling on a cold Sunday afternoon.

Our son's first still life painting.  Lemons.  Yum!

With his first shooting for national ranking our son has made "Master."  Way to go son!

More bonding with "Dad."

"Ah, that blanket sure feels nice."

"I sure hope Mom puts that camera away soon."