“I Not Dead.”
That’s how my 2 year old would say it, if he were playing guns or swords with his brother. It’s what I say to you, when I haven’t blogged for many moons. Sorry about that. I’m just trying to get my life (and all our books!) in order. We have a lot of books. I already knew that, but the reality of it is staring me in the face presently. There are stacks of books everywhere!
Things are looking different around here, but we’re not done with all our work, so I’ll probably still be hit or miss for a while. I do apologize, but you understand, right? 
Along with all of our renovations/home improvements, I’ve been feeling a little (okay, a lot) guilty about our schooling, or lack thereof. So reading this last night was so encouraging to me. It’s always nice to be reminded of these things. While we were on the road, staying out of our house while the floors were being refinished, I overheard my son and my brother talking one morning. We were headed to co op classes that day, and the kids were excited. My son tagged one of his sentences with this: “Well, every day is school, you know. ‘Cause every day you learn stuff.” I’m so thankful he understands that. 
While I haven’t had time for blogging, I did start “pinning” in the midst of all this. Simply, it’s a quicker, more efficient way to bookmark links, while accompanying each one with a picture. If you’d like to see what kinds of things are inspiring me, feel free to follow me, or sign up for your own pin board. Before long, you’ll be addicted. Trust me.
Here is a little before and after shot for you, inspired by Natalie.
Before
After (sorry, the light was not good the day we came back)
Ha! I’ve been talking to Ryan about what we are going to do about all of our books. They are everywhere, and I do everything I can to persuade him to at least keep his books down at his office (you know, I place a stack right by the door with his keys). And it’s not just clutter. I’m afraid by the time the little ones get older, books my older kids love now will be lost, misplaced, etc.
Beautiful, Gina!
Those floors look beautiful. And yes, you can totally let go of the guilt because as your son said, ‘Cause every day you learn stuff. – love it!
WOW! The floors look great, and I’m pretty sure you’re the first person to ever link my blog
Praying your dust settles soon! Tsh at simplemom also had neat ideas for book organization…she is planning on using paint stirrer sticks as book dividers on her shelf (and it looks like you, or someone you love might be frequenting home improvement stores these days!)
Love it! It’s looking really good, sis. Can’t wait to see it in person! Maybe I’ll bring my baby girl over to see it sometime… If she ever decides to show up!
Nice!
The book area is a product of a) homeschooling and b) because you like to read. Ryan just realized the need for more books space here. I now have a more motivated to get school stuff organized husband. The book bug bit him at the local homeschooling convention we went to. Your floors looks great. We are so far not ready to get renovations in the done list. Almost there. Keep up the fight you have all year to do schoolwork after all.
Beautiful, those floors are beautiful! And I, for one, am glad you not dead.