Pros & Cons

PROS:
1) I know my kids better than anyone else. I know their strengths, weaknesses, learning styles, and biggest motivators and can meet their needs at a much better ratio than the 25:1 of a classroom.
2) Who they're with - Socialization and learning benefit by mixed age groups. I play a big part in who is an influence or role model.
3) DO what we're studying - hands-on, nature, community, museums, etc.
4) Implement methods, curriculum, philosophies I am excited about and believe will work best for our family. I have been inspired by some pretty amazing educators, writers, and homeschooling parents. I want to attempt to put all of this inspiration into action and not settle for less than what could maybe be the best! (Upcoming posts to address some of these to help me figure out exactly what putting it all into action might look like!)
5) Reading Gatto has turned me off of traditional schools for a variety of reasons. (Pink Floyd now playing in the background, "we don't need no education . . . . all in all you're just another brick in the wall.")
6) Lack of schooling options near our home that excite me, drive and money to do anything else.

CONS:
1) It's already really hard work and I haven't technically even started yet.
2) Kid feels like he's missing out on something. I would love for him to get certain parts of school and as he gets older I will definitely need to cover some subjects through either outside classes or tutoring/mentoring. For the time being and through the primary years, I suppose we'll do outside enrichment classes, but I wish they were all grouped together and included some play time.
3) It is very possible that I will actually go crazy . . . . pretty much with my kids all the time!?!? But how can I not at least try if I think I have a shot at giving them an advantage in their education? And, I do have to do something productive with my time, day in and day out, right? In a lot of ways pouring into my own kids seems like it has the potential to be a lot more rewarding than working some 9-5 job.
4) Very limited space in our house. The vision I have of homeschooling would definitely be easier to carry-out with a room for all the school stuff, spreading out projects, desks, etc, etc . . . . no idea what's going to happen with this one.

There they are, my pros and cons reduced to the simplest possible form in my mind. If you haven't read my "Disclaimer" post, you may want to.

Taking on my children's education is a huge responsibility; the weight of it overwhelms me. I do not doubt that I can give them a decent education. I want to give them the best possible education. I want to do the best I can in my part to help them live up to their God-given potentials and walk-out whatever grand callings and purposes He has for their little lives. If homeschooling is the plan, then with Christ all things are possible and I will be equipped as an educator and they will be equipped for their lives. So I guess it's not really doubts I fear but rather just the hard work!