Not All Homeschoolers Are Weirdos

I had a funny and enlightening conversation the other day. I was sitting with a friend at lunch and the subject of homeschooling came up, as it usually does. I didn't think much of it because this friend has known us for a long time and has never said anything negative about homeschooling in the past. We talked for a while and I shared some of my ideas and philosophies with her and I said something to the effect of, "we aren't nonschoolers" and she said with a sigh, "oh good, because I knew someone that was and her children were so weird and didn't know anything, but your kids seem very normal to me." Oh good because that is what I was worried about! It made me think though, no one ever really accepts the fact that you homeschool. Your kids can be the brightest most social kids around (not comparing kids, just making a point) and there is still some doubt that you are doing the right thing. Yep, they may miss a dance or two, but maybe not. They might not have to stand up to a bully everyday and even though we work on it they aren't great at forming lines. If this is what my kids are "missing out" on, I think we will survive. In the meantime, while you worry about that I am going to get on to the reasons why I have chosen to homeschool my kids (that's right I chose to do this): independent thinking, self motivated, kids with strong moral and ethical character who will work good in their lives and in the lives of others. I don't judge you for sending your kids to school. If that is what you feel will help your kid to become the kind of adult that you want, great, do that, but let me decide what kind of adult I want my kid to be. I really am not bitter and am hard to offend. It was just a good lesson to me and I know that most homeschool moms can relate. Plus, one more thing, I have seen a lot of "weirdo" kids coming out of public school buildings. Just saying!