2009 is here and it's a time for new beginnings...

In this issue:

1. 3 Resolutions Every Homeschooler Should Make
2. The Best Books for Preschoolers
3. Exciting New Projects in the Works for You!

3 Resolutions
You Should Make this Year

Here are three resolutions I think every homeschooler should make this year:

1. Don't Look Back with Regret

It is always tempting to look back on a prior year and think about resolutions that were broken, goals that weren't met, books that weren't read, and projects that weren't completed.

This year, resolve not to look back with regret. Make a list of great things that happened last year. In spite of all that went wrong, what did you accomplish? If nothing else, you're still here!

2. Trim Your To Do List

Every new year also brings on the temptation to make a long list of resolutions, goals and projects to complete. However, no matter what we actually write on our lists, the underlying goal is to make ourselves perfect and that's a goal we will never meet.

In 2009, resolve to rejoice despite your imperfections. Enjoy your life even if you're a few pounds overweight, the laundry is always piled up and your kids are 4 weeks behind schedule in their math curriculum. You will never be perfect and there will always be something on your to do list!

3. Live by Your Family's Mission

Sit down with your spouse and your children, and discuss your family's values and vision. What is truly important to your family? What do you want to accomplish together? What legacy do you want to leave?

Create a family mission statement and resolve to live by it. Post your mission statement in a prominent place and schedule a weekly family meeting to make sure everyone is on target.

To follow my family as we live out our mission, check out my homeschool blog.

The Best Books for Preschoolers

Follow this link to find out why I feel Usborne publishes the best books for preschoolers.

Here are my top picks for the month of January:

As you read Snowy Day, your child takes a walk in a winter wonderland and learns why it snows, what happens when it snows and where animals go when it's cold outside. This book contains captivating illustrations your child will love. You'll want to snuggle up and read this book every night at bedtime.

How Big is a Million? tells the story of Pipin the Penguin and his search for one million. As Pipin finds 10 objects, then 100, then 1000, and so on, your child receives a delightful introduction to large numbers. At the end of the book, you'll both be dazzled by a poster that contains one million stars.

Usborne's complete catalog contains over 2900 titles for students ages infant through high school. Here is some additional information about Usborne Books for homeschoolers.

What's New?

Please take time to pass this newsletter on to fellow homeschoolers, and don't hesitate to contact me with your questions or comments.

Thank you for subscribing to Successful Homeschooling!

Enjoy the journey,