I'm Going to a Great Homeschool Convention!!...

I can hardly contain myself!  The Great Homeschool Convention is something I've dreamed about attending for a couple of years and this year that dream is becoming reality.  I've been attending the MACHE conference every year since I began homeschooling eight years ago, which is a great conference to cut your teeth on.  However this year, I wanted to spread my wings so two other local homeschooling moms and I are heading Ohio.

I'm excited about this for a couple of reasons.  First, there will be a variety of speakers that don't normally come this far north, including Andrew Kern, Dr. Christopher Perrin, and Martin Cothran, to name a few. Judging by the list of speakers, it appears at though the GHC is geared for classical educators, which totally peaks my interest.

Secondly, I really look forward to community.  Some may say that in this generation of webinars and podcasts, you can listen to many of your favorite speakers online, in the comfort of your own home, and often times free.  This is true.  However, there is nothing like building face to face community.  My favorite part of MACHE last year was networking.  I loved hanging around exhibit booths like Simply Charlotte Mason.  It was here, that I was able to bounce ideas, touch, smell, and feel resources to get a better sense of whether or not they may work for my family.  I also met other like minded families that became fast friends.  The GHC offers a huge exhibit hall, again, with many vendors that don't normally come my way, such as Beautiful Feet, CiRCE Institute, Classical Academic Press, Queen Homeschool Supplies, Inc., Royal Fireworks Press, and Veritas Press.  I can hardly wait to check out their products in person!

If you are thinking about trying a homeschool conference this season or would like pointers to get the most out of your conference, consider Preparing for a Homeschool Convention.  Also, Pam Barnhill did a great follow-up video to the GHC in Greenville, SC, that was super helpful if you're planning to attend a conference.

Lastly, if you are going to the GHC in OH, let me know in the comments below.  If you happen to see me in OH, please do stop and chat.  I would absolutely LOVE to meet some of my readers and online blogging friends :))