Well, thanks for all the hard work. I've enjoyed reading your blog. I'll keep checking back once in a while just in case you can't keep yourself away...
Wow...Awesome! It has been fun. You have definitely spurred some great conversations and it is wonderful to see you follow the Lord to even better opportunities to serve Him.
All I can say is "Praise God", and may He bless you in your new ventures.
I would love to hear more details if you are ever willing to share them.
But...but...but...but...
I don't know what to say. This is the first time I've ever felt teary-eyed about the end of a blog. I'll miss your blogging, but if you're being led in a different direction, then Godspeed! You've been a great encouragement and you'll be sorely missed. I hope you'll at least update the blog from time to time to tell us how you're doing? I'll keep subscribing to the RSS feed, just in case you change your mind. God bless you, Spunky!
Thanks so much for the great reads. They were a good wake-up call for me in many ways. Your ministry in this area has planted a lot of seeds, Spunky, and the fruit will be wonderful!
Thanks for the link to Judy's new blog...it seems like she's got the torch now. 
God Bless you and your family.
I will definitely keep checking back.
ARGHHHH!!!
First my CPA, and now Spunky!!!
IT CAN'T BE!!!
NO!!!!
What will I do without my daily dose of Spunky????
Please don't say you are done forever....
You serve a great cause and are a wonderfully articulate voice in the homeschooling arena.
Thank you for what you have done...and I say again...please don't rule out your blog permanently.
Charley
http://
www.homedisciplingdad.blo...ad.blogspot.com
http://
www.riseupandgetserious.b...us.blogspot.com
http://
www.earthbelowskyabove.bl...ve.blogspot.com
Spunky,
I've never posted here before, but I've been reading your blog religiously since I heard you speak at the Farmington Hills Homeschool conference last March. I live in Chesterfield, MI. You have truly inspired me to ponder and think about what's really going on out there. Thank you for all of your time given to this cause. Will you be speaking again this March? I have so many of your articles saved on my "favorites"...I've even given some to my pastor who encourages homeschooling. God bless you on your new journey!
Sincerely,
Nancy
i hope this is some sort of weird demented non April Fools Day joke. Seriously... hurry up and tell us that you're just kidding.
I'm sorry to see you end this, but wish you the best! This has been an informative blog.
Boy, Spunky. I'm sorry to see you go. I check your blog every day, you have given me much to think about. Your intelligent commentary will be missed.
(THUMP) (that was me fainting)
Spunky, does this mean you ARE doing Wife Swap?? 
:D
AND when do we get to know what new opportunities will take up your time, now???
The Lord's blessing on you, I'll miss reading you greatly!
All the best to a worthy adversary--well, that's too strong a word, but you made a great debater, Spunky!
Thanks for the news and for spurring me on to see some things a little differently.
Good luck and God's blessings--and do tell us what you're planning next!
Oh! Spunky, it has been a pleasure to "meet" you online and read your blog every day. I don't know why you are stopping, but I understand! I had to stop blogging, too, because I only had enough time to write Living Epistles.
God bless you and your beautiful family. You've been a thoughtful, kind, and helpful friend to the conservative homeschool community.
Amy
Best wishes, Spunky, in whatever direction you are next led. I have enjoyed the discourse here and commend you for doing such a good job and putting your thoughts across.
Thanks and God bless.
*sniff*
First Choosing Home and now you! 
Will you be writing somewhere else online so I can get my daily dose of homeschooling goodness?
I wish you the best in your endevors. You've been wonderful encouragement for me and a refreshing voice of sheer (un)common sense.
God Bless!
No, no, no, no, no! This can't be! Please tell us what you are going to be doing Spunkster. What prompted you to end your blog? I am just so sad over this
You've uplifted and inspired me on many occasions! I appreciate your dedication and I will miss reading your blog.
God bless you!
I've learned so much from this site!Thank you so much Spunky!
God bless you and your family. Go through that new door that He has opened for you! Please do post an update from time to time.
Love in Christ,
ADC
I'm so sad. I've so enjoyed your blog. It has challenged and inspired me in many ways. You will be missed greatly.
Blessings!
Well, okay, but, umm....*sigh*
I wish you many blessings, Spunky. Take care.
K.
Admit it Spunky, you are going on Wife Swap and the contract requires you to go dark for a while
Best wishes on your future endeavors, and you are always welcome in the comments at ODonnellWeb!
Chris
Wow! I've never commented (never felt worthy or smart enough) but I've loved reading your blog for the past few months. You have important pieces of information that I don't get anywhere else. Do you have any suggestions of any blogs that are similar to yours (and your line of thinking)?
God bless you and your family.
I'm with Chris -- I'll be looking for you on Wifeswap -- and then back on line when that contract allows!
Seriously, though, best wishes on whatever opportunities you pursue. It has been nice to have you as an e-quaintance.
Hey, I'm not going to kiss up to you, but dont' you think you owe us a reason why you're leaving us abandoned and all alone out here ?
By the way, Stephanie O I think you were one of the first commenters on my blog, it is fitting that you managed to be the first to comment here.
Viva the blogosphere!
"I am slowly evolving into a liberal and have joined the Democrat[ic] Underground."
We'll keep an eye out for you!
Good luck -- whatever it is you are really moving on to!
Nance
I emailed you privately, but for now this seems to be floating through my 'ol noggin:
There's a sad sort of clanging
From the clock in the hall
And the bells in the steeple too,
And up in the nurs'ry an absurd little bird
Is popping out to say "coocoo".
Regretfully they tell us,
But firmly they compel us
To say goodby to you.
So long, farewell, Auf wiedersehn, good night,
I hate to go and leave this pretty sight.
So long, farewell, Auf wiedersehn, adieu,
Adieu, adieu, to yieu and yieu and yieu.
So long, farewell, Au'voir, auf wiedersehn,
I'd like to stay and taste my first champagne
So long, farewell, Auf wiedersehn, goodbye,
I leave and heave a sigh and say goodbye,
Good bye
I'm glad to go,
I cannot tell a lie.
I flit, I float,
I fleetly flee, I fly.
The sun has gone to bed and so must I
So long, farewell, auf wiedersehn, goodbye,
Goodbye,
Goodbye,
Goodbye!
Spunky,
I'll miss you too!
And Choosing Home is still going for the time being. The final decision on whether it will continue or not has not yet been made.
I wish you well on your endeavors, Spunky.
*SIGH* One of the things I have loved the most about the blogosphere is that it has reduced the miles that separate us on the globe to a mouse click and I could benefit from the wisdom of godly women like you. I can't imagine not being able to find you here. Whatever new opportunities await you, dear Spunky, I hope you know how much you are loved and will be missed in this place. Love ~ Patricia *SIGH*
I'm speechless. I guess I wrongly assumed that you will always be there in the blogosphere. You have done a fantastic job and have encouraged me greatly. May God pour His blessings upon you and your family. Know that you are welcome back anytime should you miss us so much. We will miss you greatly. It was a pleasure "knowing" you and may we meet in heaven! I look out for you. Now I must go mourn!
Susan
PS- you greatly impress my husband who appreciates great writing.
Oh. Wow. What am I going to do without my daily dose of Spunky? You are the first blog I read everyday. I stumbled on your blog by accident and have been a faithful reader ever since. I am going to miss your common sense and my daily dose of why I homeschool.
Best wishes!
Blah! My computer crashed yesterday and I am reading from a friends house. Now I don't even care that it is going to take a week for the repair guy to come...
Well, thanks for making me examine my reasons for homeschooling very closely.
God Bless you and your family and whatever you choose to do next.
Oh, Spunky! I sure am going to miss you! Your blog was the FIRST one I checked every day. I kept up with what was happening in homeschooling around the country (and world) through your posts. God bless you and your family!
That noise you just heard? That was me screaming.
And now I'm crying. And no I'm not kidding...though I keep hoping you are.
I can't argue - since I'm sure you have your own quite excellent reasons. (and I could never win an argument with you anyway!) But I am quite honestly distraught.
I'll miss you, Spunky!
Please don't go away for long! We really need bright, articulate women to speak truth and keep us informed in this day and age where so many lies are spoken as truth.
I'm so thankful for the time you've spent on your blog - it's incredibly educational and refreshing. It's also been a great reminder of why we've chosen to make the financial sacrifices so that I can stay home with our child.
Blessings on your next endeavor! (And I hope that you come back soon!)
Wow, I had just found you when we started our homeschooling experiment. I'm shocked you're leaving. I have so appreciated your blogging, and especially your thoughtful comments on my posts.
Best wishes to you, wherever life leads you...
Spunky,
I will miss you so much! You have always given me much food for thought and I always appreciate your writings.
I know God has something big in store for you...God bless you and pleeeeeese reconsider? Okay, I had to try.
Follow your heart.
Much love...and of course, enjoy your journey no matter WHERE it takes you!
I like the way you think and express yourself. I'm going to truly miss reading your posts.
You're much too coherent to be part of the DU.
I have never commented before but thank you so much for keeping me informed on current homeschooling issues.
May God bless you as you journey ahead,
I understand, but will your archives still be here?
Wow, Spunky, I didn't think your job was done here. I am really sad to see you go. You have always been a bright though sobering spot on the net. The one that heralded the call to keep doing what is right; to stand and be counted; not to grow weary in well-doing. I know there are others that do similar things, but you have an important niche. You will be greatly missed.
Warmly,
Kate
How sad! I will REALLY miss your blog...
Wow! I am in shock as well. Yours is the first blog that I check as well! I have enjoyed reading your blog each day. Thank you so much for all your insight on so many subjects, as well as your loving, but firm responses to others. I know you will be blessed! (I have "known" you since the days of T2)
Oh. my. word.
I thought you were a fixture in the blogosphere!
Thanks so much for all the helpful, insightful, thought-provoking and challenging words. I haven't always agreed with every one of them, as my dad was a public school teacher, I studied to be one, and one of our sons is in public school--but I have always been encouraged and challenged to really think through the issues you've addressed, and I truly appreciate that and the spirit in which you have raised them. I've also appreciated your encouraging comments to me--thanks for taking the time, and I hope you'll still make the occasional visit!
Now, should I REALLY delete you from my blogroll, or just wait a month or so? Maybe you'll change your mind?
Best wishes and may God bless your future endeavors!!
Jeanne
I've read your blog daily and am so sad you're leaving this blog behind. I, too, have six dear children and really appreciate your perspective on education, Godly parenting, current social issues, life as a mom, and large families. So many times I've been talking to a friend and have said, "You've GOT to read this blog I read..."
You have so many gems of wisdom in your blog archives I truly hope they'll continue to be available. I do hope you'll leave one last post letting us know what new opportunities await. Whatever it is, I'm sure you'll be blessed for your past and future efforts!
I haven't commented much here lately, but I've been reading faithfully. I'll miss this blog, and your amazing writing, very very much. God bless!
Wow! I am shocked. I have had little time to be online lately, but do always try to get here and read. I will miss you Spunky as so many other will to. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and thoughts online. Many blessings in all you do in the future.
Oh man!! I am so terribly sad that you are leaving us!!
I have forwarded more links to your blog posts than any other. You always have such a great insight and are so articulate!
There has been more than one occasion when I was struggling with some issue or another and whammo- there was a post about it on Spunky's blog! You have been a great source of wisdom for me and for that I thank you.
Best of luck and God's blessings on your new path.
Spunky!!!! How can you leave me?? Your blog was the one I relied on to give a jolt and encourage me. I am stunned. You didn't even ever hint to this. What is going on??? And your previous comment still didn't give us a clue as to why you are leaving.....or I am really dense. What has happened??
Tracy
I have never commented before but I found your blog a few months ago and since then have been checking it first thing every morning. It has encouraged me to continue on in homeschooling, and has reminded me over and over of why I am doing it. You are truly amazing and articulate your thoughts so well! You have given me tools to be able to explain to others why I am homeschooling, and that is such a blessing for me!
I really hope that you will post again one day, or at least leave your archives up so that we can refer to them from time to time.
Have a wonderful Christmas season!
Spunky- I have loved reading your blog. The broader implications of education policy is not something I had considered prior to reading here. I really appreciate the time you've taken to share your thoughts with the rest of the world.
I'll greatly miss reading here!
God's blessing to you in all endevors.
So sorry you are leaving the blogosphere. Your work has been greatly enjoyed. Thank you for all you've done on behalf of homeschoolers.
Best wishes, Laura
Ummmm.....I'm comin' back tomorrow to make sure you really meant it!
If so, you will be sorely missed!
NO! no! no!!!!!
Where are you going???? Can we come too?
Spunky, Thank you so much for all you've done with a helpful hand and putting your good thoughts out there on your blog. It's much appreciated, as well as your solid and articulate research.
I'm sure you're heading for a great new adventure and I wish you well with God's Blessings on you and yours.
I've enjoyed reading your family goings on too. I have to say that the dental floss 'chew' was a thought that won't leave my mind any time soon and makes me smile.
Best and thank you.
Here's a post you made on 03 Jul:
No, I'm not going to quit blogging
Sunday, July 03, 2005
I received a few e-mails asking if I was going to give up my blog. The answer is no. As I told Ron I only have a virus, it's not a fatal disease. But with the computer down, I'll have to learn to manage things differently.
Could we please hold you to this????
Charley
Best wishes, and thank you.
Wait.. it's not April Fool's Day is it? Argh...
And in answer to the archives, yes I will leave them up. I hate dead links and I would never curse another blogger with one pointed here. So I'll leave them up. The easiest way to find something you're looking for is to google the phrase and "Spunkyhomeschool" and it usually pops up. That's how I usually find my old posts.
I may also put up my "Best of" side bar links eventually. We'll see.
Spunky,
Say it ain't so! I'll miss reading your blog everyday. It really helped me recommit to homeschooling.
I wish you well in whatever the Lord has in store for you.
Blessings to you and your family.
You will be missed
NO! Each time I start to wonder if I'm totally nuts, suddenly you post something totally relevant and it refocuses me.
What in the world am I going to do now?
Another going to miss you comment as well.
Thank you for working so hard to keep us up to date on all the crazies in the world... My husband works in a department of education reform, so I love being able to bring articles to him that I've read off your blog. Another plug for your blog: it's made my marriage stronger! Way to go, Spunky. You've done an awesome job. You will surely be missed.
Spunky.. This is not good news.. This is like when my best friend moved away..
You have had the most wonderful posts..and have done some superb writing.. plus you've coined the phrase "outsourcing parenthood",
and most impotantly you have inspired me on my own blog adventure.
But I understand a need to travel another path.. can you guest blog somewhere? or at least send me a post sometime to share? May the Lord bless you and keep you and yours safe and happy and healthy and may you prosper in your new ventures.
Much love and thanks,
Judy Aron
No, Spunky! I remember when you first started your blog, and now it seems like you've always been a part of the blogosphere. Won't be the same without you! Blessings to you wherever you're headed.
Anne, I would like to extend a special thank-you to you. You were the first to link to me and I am still a faithful reader of your blog. I doubt you'll ever come north to Detroit (only one of my best friends was ever foolish enough to do that not once but twice!), but if I ever make it to Hawaii again, I'll let you know.
Definitely let me know, Spunky! I'd love to meet you in person.
Wow that was unexpected! You took to blogging like a fish to water Spunky! Best of luck in all of your future endeavors. A post now and then would be nice!!
Thanks for all the effort you've put in, providing good original content to the blogosphere. Much appreciated and may God bless you in all your other ministries.
Regards,
Shawn
I hate to see you leaving Spunky! I'll miss your wonderful posts and great finds.
Take care of yourself!
Mary Nix
I'm stunned. Completely stunned. Speechless and teary-eyed. Really. I feel like a good friend just passed away or something. How is it that a blog can be so meaningful to so many of us? But it has been, Spunky. You have blessed more than you will ever know.
Go in peace, and with God's blessings. As I mentioned in my email to you, I do hope that Christy and I have the pleasure of meeting you and your family in person someday on this side of heaven.
Until then,
steve (no smilie after my name this time because I'm too sad to smile!!!)
I've nver left a comment before but have been reading your blog for about 6 months. I came accross your blog while searching for a book review. I continued to read your blog because it was informative and interesting and because I just moved to MI and thought it was neat that you were "here" too. I never seriously considered homeschooling until coming accross your site. My oldest is only 2, so we haven't made a decision but we are definitely leading towards homeschool. Best wishes in your future endeavors and we will miss you!
Wow! I didn't think I would be reading this today. I'll truly miss your posts. I read them everyday. Blessings in whatever direction God is leading you.
Donna (previously known as :Doctor Homeschool)
Sorry to see you go, Spunky, I'll miss you.
I bet you're writing a book and have little time for this blogging stuff.
It was such a memorable privilege to spend an afternoon with you and your daughters in August, Spunky.
I found you, hard to believe, better in real life, than in print (the former of which counts for infinitely more): spunky, vivacious, captivating. Simply a delight!
"The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration but its donation."
~Corrie Ten Boom
You have given much in the last two years, Spunky. We stand and, over the thunderous applaud, say thank you.
With gratitude,
Spunky,
You will be missed. Steve and I are so sad to see you go, but we send our love to you and your family.
May God bless your future plans in whatever direction He is leading you.
Hopefully we will "meet" again-
Christy
Spunky
Enjoyed every time I've read. I sure hope you put it into some sort of book, cause I'd buy it.
Best of blessings!
Hunh?
Can't be!
Why? No, really. Why?
You can't just disappear like that...can you?
You will be missed! Please let me know when you are in GR so you can stop by and meet Caroline. We would love to see you again. Best wishes on your new endeavors.
HI Spunky,
Just wanted to say that many times when I've been afraid to stand up for my convictions, your firmness have deeply encouraged me. You have more children than just the ones you see in your house.
CL
I'm so depressed now. I've been in shock all evening. I feel like I'm losing a good friend.
You're the best, Spunky! You inspired me to be a better mother/homeschooler, and for that, I thank you. God bless you and your family.
Well, congratulations on whatever it is you are off to (President? Works for me.) You will be missed. And I won't know what to do with myself anymore in the middle of the night. I'll have to go find someone else to pester, I guess. Or do what I'm supposed to be doing when I'm up late on the computer.
But that isn't as much fun.
I'll be the first to say that with so many faithful readers, it seems you could have given us some warning. This is really unfair. It's such shocking news....totally unexpected. I will miss your blog SO much-I can't even find the words.
This is what it must feel like to be suddenly dumped.
It hurts!
And all you can do is give sarcastic remarks? Apparently you don't believe we are worth being honest with.
I must say I've lost respect for you. I think we deserve better than this.
Spunky we will miss you.
God bless you and your family. The time you spend with them is more important than any blog.
I'm sorry to see you go. You've opened my eyes to a lot of issues in education. God bless you and your family!
Grace and peace to you, in the next season of life. *hugs*
Spunky, I feel like I'm saying good-bye to a dear friend, but you're honestly doing me a favor. I was becoming a Spunkyholic! I am glad that you are leaving up your archives. I will enjoy going back and reading the posts you wrote before I started visiting. I really want to thank you, my sister in Christ. You have encouraged me so much! May God continue to bless you and your home.
This is sad and shocking! I'll miss your blog.
You've been such a voice of reason and clarity. I am puzzled at the abruptness of your decision. Did something very unpleasant happen? Very sad, if so. Your sarcasm and near-meanness in the comments are unexpected and so unlike your usual way. Perhaps you need our prayers as well as best wishes - and you have them both. You will be missed and welcomed back if you should choose to return.
Adios. You'll be missed.
I don't think she's being mean (re: comment left by Jau). Sometimes you just have to say goodbye. Some people like long, drawn out goodbyes until you're almost wishing they'd leave. Some people just say adios! Whatever her reason, God Bless Her and her family and Merry CHristmas!
You will be missed.
Spunkyhomeschool was one of the first blogs I found when I began to read about that strange, american way of educate children - at home!!! Well, I've been reading your blog and a couple of others daily and now we're trying to homeschool our own boys. I have learned so much from you especially how important it is to work together as a family - wife and husband.
Reading your blog has blessed me in so many ways and I pray that the Lord will continue to "bless you back" (that doesn't work in english, huh?!)
Anyway: Thanks - and I'll miss you. I'll sing you this little, swedish song:
"mötas och skiljas är livets gĺng,
skiljas och mötas är hoppets sĺng,
nu skiljs vĺra vägar,
nu säger vi farväl,
men vi hoppas att vi ses igen!"
(Meet and depart is how life goes, depart and meet again is the song of hope, now our ways depart, we say farewell, but we hope we'll meet again.)
Malgomaj, Stockholm, Sweden
Thank you for serving the homeschool community so well; many blessings to you and your family.
Until that day,
lindafay
Dear Spunky,
I too haven't commented much before. As a former lawyer(now SAHM) married to a lawyer, I am always showing my husband your convicting and informative posts on education policy. If I wasn't of the mind set that we can do more as mothers rather than career women, I too would be saying--Spunky we need people like you as Senators and yes, as President.... People not afraid to speak their convictions no matter what the consequences. Another commenter is right, you have planted many, many seeds thru this blog. May God bless them and multiply them 1000 fold. With the Democrats and Republicans looking like twins these days other than on a few policies, it is time and maybe our last chance to take back this country. We need Spunkys, and Doug Phillips and alot of these homeschool dads that are involved and not just on the sidelines running for office. We need revival. We need to stop not running for office because we are afraid of how the media will tear us up and just Trust God.
If you have time, can you clue us in on how you gather alot of your news on education that you share with us on education policy so we aren't in the dark?
Perhaps, you are creating a writing curriculum. If not, consider it. You are one of the best writers I have ever read. Your knowledge is that of the level of the best of the best, the old Harvards, and old Yales, what a gift of God to have you in the homeschool camp keeping us informed and rousing the troops.
Thank you Spunky, for all you have put into this blog. It was a way for you to affect education policy without actually being in office.
Momof3blessings
I apologize for the two lame attempts at lightening the mood. It was not intended to be disrespectful or mean. I have and always will have great respect for all readers and commenters. I have deleted the comments so as not to appear disrespectful where none was intended or felt. Nor has anything unpleasant happened. So please accept that I am the same person I always was and that sometimes it's just better to move on in order to continue to walk with the Lord. That's all. I talk very little about my personal life on this blog. That has always been intentional. Unlike other blogs I'm not the subject of the blog that bears my name. Education and family life in the world is the subject. I'm just one of God's messengers among many others to get spead the Word of Truth.
There isn't a reason for leaving, but a calling to go forward. What that is will unfold as I obey and take the first step in leaving this behind? Is that being secretive? No. It's telling the truth as I always do. If there were more to tell I would tell it.
Mom3blessings, As far as where I get my news sources. I pray and then read what comes through google news in education and homeschooling. Because of the great amount of reasearch I have put into education, things click with other things I have read and I put them all together. If God has given me one gift, it is for the ability to remember small facts for longer than it often seems necessary. I've never considered myself a writer (more math and computers), but your words were very encouraging.
Wow! I will definitely miss you. We plan on homeschooling our girls when they are old enough, and I loved all the information on this blog that I could not get anywhere else. God bless you.
Wow, seems so sudden. I understand needing to move on though. Thanks for providing such great reading.
in Him,
Michelle
Spunky, your insights will certainly be missed. I wish you all the best!
Good luck with your ongoing journey.
Spunky,
I understand. I only hate that I found your blog only one month ago through Tapestry of Grace. You certainly have put a lot of time into your blog. Thanks.
Thanks for the update. You know...I think the real pain isn't from losing the info. It's from losing the friend. Although you didn't blog much about your personal life - I still feel like you're a friend. And if you're not blogging - I won't see my friend anymore. It maketh me quite sad. I'm telling you - one of these days I'm going to shock you and the DHM and show up on your turf. I skipped the Dallas blogger get together because I realized that if I were going to spend money and get on a plane and leave my kids to meet bloggers- that I'd want to meet you and the DHM. So just watch out!
Love you Spunky!!
Ack! Your's is one of the few blogs that I read every single day...and so does my daughter. We are devastated...but I understand. You have to do what God leads you to do. I just wish He would lead you to stay! :o)
Even though I am new to this blogging thing, yours was one of the first I read regularly. I will miss you. Thank you for your hard work on behalf of the rest of us.
Adding to the rest--we'll miss your insight! Best wishes.
When I saw the Update heading this morning, I was hoping that you were going to say you changed your mind. Alas, that wasn't so. I thank you for the time you've dedicated to the blog and wish you well in your other pursuits.
Wow. I'm speechless!
I love your blog, and I'm going to miss it a lot, but I'm excited with you for whatever God has for you next!
I only found your blog a few months ago, I suppose this will give me time now to read through your archives LOL!
You'll be missed!
Spunky,
I appreciate the update - that helps to lesson the blow to the blog world!
I do, and always have, wished you the best.
Warmly,
Kate
I'll miss you, Spunky, I still hope we can get together IRL. If there's an MI online group you're a part of, or another way we can keep in touch, please let me know via e-mail.
Gem
*BIG HUGS*
May your next journey be at least half as helpful and fun as this one was! If so, then I know you will not only impact the world but you will have a blast doing so! Good luck, friend!
Spunky (and anyone else),
Ok, this may seem like an odd request at a funeral...uh, I mean a passing on...oh, I mean the end of a GOOD THING, but does anyone know of a blog that has had similar focus and intention as Spunky? I know that no 2 blogs and minds are the same, but the mix of discussions specifically around education (homeschool, unschool, public school) and family life are interesting.
Many homeschool blogs focus specifically on homeschooling. Unschool blogs focus on unschooling. Education blogs focus on public school blogs. Spunky did have a wonderful mix of discussions and commenters who were passionate about many aspects of education, politics and family.
Another thought is a database and/or categorization/review of blogs that deal with these issues. Has anyone put together such a review or collection of blogs and sites?
I just discovered your blog this past summer - you've provided me with some good tools/thoughts as my family begins its own homeschooling journey.
Many thanks, and best of luck with your future endeavors.
Merry Christmas and God Bless.
Susan from NH
I've enjoyed reading your blog and I'm sorry that you're not going to be writing it anymore--though I can certainly see why you might want to take a break. I'm sure you'll find many equally interesting things to do! And I hope to see you resurface sometime, somewhere...
Laura
Brian,
On my blog and yahoogroup, I watch public school-at-home programs with an eye on homeschool freedoms.
http://ncsw.homeschooljournal.net/
I know that there are other hs bloggers that have other interests. If you don't have a bloglines account yet, you could get one and sub to the blogs whose focus would start to fill in this sudden, terrible hole.
Spunky, I understand how you have to end this, but I'm sorry to see it end.
Blessings in your new adventures,
Annette
Well, I sure will miss you! Sometimes your blog was the only "news" I read all day. Thanks so much for your insights and clear, thoughtful articles. I hope you are blessed in your new endeavors.
Spunky,
I've been so incredibly blessed by your blog and am SAD to see you moving on. I do hope you'll come back and update us on what new direction God is leading you!
I still think your post, "Don't Bend the Wire" could be expanded into a wonderful book on parenting teenagers. If you can write this up as a non-fiction book proposal and take it to a writer's conference, I'm sure a publisher would be interested. And I'd be one of the first to buy it!
Thank you for being the iron that sharpened so many of us to be better parents and followers of Christ. Please keep in touch!
--Heather Ivester
CWO Book Buzz (hoping to review your book one day...)
After more than a year of faithfully reading your blog daily, I am saddened to see it end. Your wisdom, insight, and articulate writing have been a great encouragement to me. Thanks so much for all the hard work you have put into this blog for so long. May the Lord abundantly bless all your future endeavours.
Spunky!
You are an elder teaching us youngers and I wish you didn't have to go. The Lord redirects us and that's a great thing. I learned a lot from you. Thanks!
Wow... I hate to see you go. I have gotten so much out of your writings and found my own voice in this realm. Thank you for the time you have put into this, and best wishes on your next endeavor.
Spunky, I hate so much to see you go, but know that you must follow our Lord. Many blessings to you and your family!
Janet
Ah rats...
Spunky, I hope you leave your blog archives up. It is such a source of wisdom to me. I had hoped to have you as a resource when I became a mom.
You know, the older women are supposed to instruct the younger... and We ain't got ladies like you at our church.
Much love in Christ,
Elizabeth
To be honest, I had only just begun reading your blog and enjoyed it immensely. I had seen it and heard about it from others in the past. I am sad to see you go - I love your posts and your convictions and your clarity of writing what you think and how you feel. You are an inspiration. Will you keep this blog available for people to review and read through? Will you begin a different blog with a different theme?
Spunky,
Thank you for leaving your archives up. I know I will find that a great blessing as well as others.
Also, thank you for expounding on your reasons for leaving. This way, it helps quash rumours and gossip from circulating.
I would also be thrilled to see a "best of" links. I know I'm not the only one who would like that, either!
Sniff. Sniff. (blowing nose) Waaaaaah! (Lower lip trembling) Gee, Spunky. I am really sad, but so proud of you. It takes courage to make a big change in life. Of course I will miss reading your blog, and I am ever so grateful for your links over to mine. It was a blessing! One of your commenters said that we needed an articulate person like you to dispel the lies, and that hit the nail right on the head for me. I loved reading the truth that came out of your thoughts and it really helped me make heads or tails of this crazy world at times. I am so glad I "met" you in this cyberworld, and am sad about your decision, yet I know that God is leading you as you switch gears.
That last blogging episode we shared was lots of fun and hopefully all that didn't push you off the edge.....(nah, all in a days work.)
Anyway, it's redundent to say you will be sorely missed. (Sniff, "hand me the tissues will ya?"
Have a wonderful Christmas holiday with your family!!!
You are the greatest,
Nancy
Thank you for your many thoughtful and provocative posts and best wishes for the future. A woman with your dedication to the principles of excellence will honor God and be a blessing to others in whatever she does.
Spunkyhomeschool will be missed. I was already down to two blogs/day. If DaveBlackOnline.com shuts down, I'll know this blog fad is really over.
Adding my name to the list of people who say "Good for you!" and wish you much joy. Laying down something that brings affirmation and stimulation is hard.
May you find much richness ahead with Christ.
You are a blessing!
I've gotten pass the shock and grief stages, and I think I'm at the acceptance stage.
As Calvin says in the last Calvin and Hobbes strip:
http://www-cgi.cnn.com/US/9512/
c...lvin_hobbes.jpg
"A day full of possibilities. It's a magical world."
We wish you the best.
No no nononononono!
This feels like the Free Press merging with the News all over again.
Only worse.
WRITE A BOOK!!! WRITE A BOOK!!!
If you only write a book, you will save thousands of people from years of depression because of this.
God Bless you Spunky. You have helped me and my blog in so many ways, and your insights, thoughts, and ideas have helped us time and time again. May God's grace continue in your life.
Tim Sweetman
www.agenttimonline.com
I'm sorry to see you go. I hope you'll be back, however the Lord leads you, and that you'll be writing again.
Talk about the LAST person to find out!
I'll miss your words of wisdom and your analysis of education and homeschooling, but I respect you being obedient to the Lord and following His direction for your life, in spite of what you may have to give up.
You are doing the right thing!
Dear Spunky,
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and He delights in his way."
Psalm 37:23
"Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates." Proverbs 31:31
Blessings to You and Your family!
Love, Karen
Spunky~
I rejoice with you in your obedience to God's call. What joy and blessing will pour forth from doing so.
Your blog and time have blessed many, thank you for giving to others.
May your family be blessed abundantly.
Roberta
Wow, that is a shocker!
I admire you for doing what God is calling you to do. It's not always easy following God's calling.
May God bless you and your family!
Thank you Spunky, for the update. I was the one who posted that the abruptness was unfair. I do not take to change well-I need warnings. I really am grieving the loss of your blog. You kept me informed and I just assumed it would go on and on.
I am now going to bury, er...I mean, delete your blog. I do pray the Lord's blessings and guidance in your life. And if I hear that you start a blog sometime in the future, I'll be right back here again.
Merry Christmas, dear Spunky, and may you have a very happy New Year.
sniff, sniff..... (big breath)... WAAAH! I want my Mommy. sniff. I'll miss your blog dearly. Thank you so much for all the stuff you blogged about. ~B
Jo. No offense taken.
Thanks again for all your kind comments and emails.
To all: voting begins today in the WebLog Awards. I won't pander for votes like the politicians and the top two finalists are, but wouldn't it be awesome if a homeschooler won this! Not for me, but for all homeschooling. The top two candidates think it's a lock between the two of them. And it may be, but I think that the homeschool community could give them a run for their money. You can vote once per day.
Add me to one that will miss your thoughts first thing in the morning. I'm at a loss as to what I will do to start my days now..... ;-(
Good luck with your new endeavors.
You will be sorely missed here. I just got into this blog recently and I am sad that you have to go, but I am happy that you have the prudence to be obedient to the Lord. Many blessings, Spunky. Thank you for your time and effort in keeping this blog alive. Congratulations on being a finalist for the award, too. You deserve it.
I pray you leave this blog up so that others can learn from what you have written. Take care, and God Bless!
You may be gone, but you will not be forgotten.
but wouldn't it be awesome if a homeschooler won this
I can't in good conscience vote for a deceased blog! JUST KIDDING. Seriously, though, where do we vote?
And if you win, will that entice you to come back?
steve
Hey, didn't a deseased guy win the governorship in Missouri a while back, and his wife ended up serving? (Carnahan??) If it works there, why not here?!
Here's the link:
http://2006.weblogawards.org/
200...tional_blog.php
Thanks for asking Steve. Btw, your CD is on the daily playlist around here (See sidebar for those who want to order. No, I'm not pandering for votes )
Best of luck. I've enjoyed your blog. Even though you'll no longer be writing, I hope you'll leave the blog up with all the great articles and information. Thanks also for the suggestions to read Joanne Jacobs and Education Wonks blogs. I'm already a fan.
Hey, didn't a deseased guy win the governorship in Missouri a while back, and his wife ended up serving? (Carnahan??) If it works there, why not here?!
Oh, ok. I get it. So if you win, you will start another blog to "serve" in place of the deceased blog. People, let's get busy voting!!!!
Spunky, I have two non-Christmas CDs for the after-Christmas playlist...(or is that pandering?! LOL)
No that just means if I win, my husband takes over here at Spunky Homeschool!
Will miss you! Take care and God bless you!
Blessings and God speed.
I started a blog. I wrote one entry. Then I sat down and wondered how in the WORLD you do it!! Maybe you really are human after all! I was really starting to wonder!! Too bad you can't co-blog with some others who don't have time to do it all themselves.
REQUEST:
Spunky, didn't there used to be a "Best of" link on your blog? I was looking for your Honeymoon to Happy Home post tonight and I was "SURE" there was a link on your sidebar.
Will miss you a great deal.
HIS plans and HIS ways are not ours. Thank you for following HIS leadings, though you will be greatly missed. God's blessings
Jodi, I'm sorting through the posts and I put the links back on the side bar.
I'll also put up more links to other sites for reading.
While you're waiting please consider voting in the Weblog Awards. I said I wasn't going to pander for votes, but we've gotten the top two contenders attention. The Professor wants to "crush the homeschoolers" and it is clear from other comments that the educational "elites" don't like "every day" folks invading their terrain. I guess what's true in education, is also true in the blogosphere. This isn't a win for me, but all homeschooling.
Here's the link,
http://2006.weblogawards.org/
200...tional_blog.php
It's a strange voting system, you can vote everyday until Dec. 15.
Thanks
I'm just sitting here with my mouth open. I got chills even! I can't imagine a blogosphere without Spunky. I have been reading you since I first began blogging... and will be so sad to see you go. I hope you will keep up with me via email as you are a special part of our life in a strange sort of way. We've prayed for your kids before... which makes you real somehow - not just a blog contact. I hope you have success and find favor with the Lord in your new journey on His path. May it be an easy transition and I am praying that you win the award you've been nominated for. I voted for you! I will truly miss you, Spunky. A lot of us blog for fun and to vent and keep journals of our personal slice of homeschool... but you were a voice for all of us - keeping up with the world's perspective and helping us know what was going on in education as it related to homeschool. What you did for the blogosphere was not only inspirational, but necessary! Your cyber shoes will be hard ones to fill. The blog realm will seem strangely silent for a while as you attend to whatever God has called you to do. May Christ shine on you. Merry Christmas.
sprittibee at sbcglobal dot net - keep in touch, please!?
Voting for HOMESCHOOLING (via Spunky Homeschool) every day!
Hope you're doing well in the new journey God is opening up for your family! You're in my prayers!
I'm sure it's all been said already but I just can't let you sign off without chiming in. You will be missed. I've learned so much from your blog.
I can respect your decision, I've had to make similar ones in the past. It isn't easy but oh so necessary. I know the Lord has wonderful plans for you.
God Bless!
As long as you don't make your kids watch tapes called "Creation Adventures" like in Jesus Camp, I'm 100% OK with home-schooling.
Thanks for your blessing on homeschooling!
The Professor wants to "crush the homeschoolers"
No, not really. I was just bantering back and forth with the jokesters from IvyGate. I will, however, put in a good word for my local public schools, which have included my younger son in "regular" classrooms from kindergarten through seventh grade. His name is Jamie and I wrote today's post about him.
Best wishes to you and your family.
ugh...now what am i going to read? phooey. how about some warning posts to help your faithul following prepare for your brutal ending... a a little closure? i think i'm going to need a therapist for this one.
thanks for the hard work...
Voting every day for Spunky Homeschool!
Spunky's closing in on second place!! As of this comment, she's only about 60 votes behind IvyGate. I think the ivy is starting to wilt.
Once the ivy is all trimmed off the gate, we'll be after you, Mr. Extended-ASCII-Characters hehe
I'm sure going to miss reading your posts Spunky. I have GREAT respect for you for following your obedience to God!!!
*hugs*
Hey, are the spunkettes still gonna keep blogging? I know Emily LOVES them!
=oD
I've got a mega-campaign going for you Spunky.
Time's running out,
and you're bound to get 2nd, perhaps a tight race for 1st
~Caleb >
I voted for you today and will keep voting until it's over! You ROCK Spunk!
You're in second place now, and I just announced on my blog to ask everyone to vote for you. You've got over 1700 votes so far -- way to go!
I'm voting too! I was so excited to see Spunky in second place! She's only 400 behind right now, PRAISE TO GOD! No matter the outcome, He will be given the glory! Woo Hoo!!!!
See ya round spunky... fyi..wrote you a little goodbye letter here:
http://homeschooling.families.co...k-to-
homeschool
Hey, I'm a homeschool graduate and I just wanted to let you know that I have encouraged my blogging friends to go and vote for you. You are getting so close!! God bless, JC
Spunky, you're only 170 votes behind as of this comment! You made terrific ground today, and IvyGate is officially left in the dust, as it looks right now.
C'mon, people! Only a couple more days to make up the last 170 vote difference!!
Viva la Spunky!!
Amen Steve! Go Lord, use Spunky's blog to share You with the blogging world!
Vote! Vote! Vote!
YOU'RE TIED FOR FIRST PLACE!!!
When I voted a few minutes ago, you were in FIRST PLACE!! You were 4 votes ahead at 3887. But now you're trailing in second gain. We gotta get everybody to vote!
Spunky,
I will really miss your blog. I always found it interesting and it had become my first stop on the blog rounds!
God bless you in all your endeavors and if you ever want to come back, it looks like you have many adoring fans who would love just that!
Spumky,
I am so often late to the discussion. I've been sick and had major computer problems.
I feel a sadness that you are stopping - though I can understand.
I have a great deal of respect for you - it was a privilege to stand alongside you in pursuit of the truth (you know what I mean).
It's also been wonderful to encounter a Christian woman who seeks integrity and uses her mind as part of that.
Thankyou for being part of the blogoshere. You will be missed. All thr best to you as you move on from this to what God has called you to.
I'm, glad you are leaving the blog up - those links continue to be helpful.
Oh sorry - I typo'd spumky instead of Spunky! (New keyboard - the other one was more spacey - I keep hitting the wrong letters on this one)
As of this comment, Spunky is in FIRST PLACE by 16 votes. We have made tremendous ground today in this. Just over 25 hours to go. Everybody get your last vote in before 11:59PM EST tomorrow night!!!
This is exciting, Spunky!
How exciting that you are in the running with a good shot at winning!
I'm sad to see you stop blogging as well. I've learned many things from your blog and a couple of discussions from many months ago were instrumental in opening my eyes to Truth about Christianity.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
You have fallen behind by about 500 votes! What has happened? Hurry and vote people! We've just got to win!
Suzan
Man! I just find you and you're leaving! I need you ! I have 7 kids and homeschool!
Grumble. Alright I'll read all your old posts.
We're behind by 564 votes, but- we can change that!
I love your blog- thank you so much for being faithful in writing!
Looks like the 3rd place blog gave up and is telling its people to vote for Berube....
Bummer. Without that, Spunky would have won.
I just voted! It'll be my last vote before it closes. Spunky is in second place again, but I'm sure we can catch up! (and yes, Spunky, you've created a true place of fellowship here at Spunkyhomeschool. We all seem to feel a personal victory in this right along with you...bearing your burden, rejoicing in your victory, which is for the Glory of our Savior!)
By the way, did everyone notice Michael Berube "accused" us Christians of being "very, very good at spreading the word!" He intended it in the context of "spreading the word to vote" but I pray that his words are always true for us believers in blog-o-land, that we are continually being very, very good at spreading His Word with those who have not heard.
Apparently, the people running this contest think that "we" (those of us voting for Spunky) cheated to the tune of 900+ votes being taken away. They took away over 400 from Bérubé, too, but that accounted for all the ground we had gained yesterday.
Of course, some are jumping on this to say that "the Christians" are even less moral than "the secularists". It makes me sad. If people really did cheat on behalf of Spunky, it's a shame. Most of us who are supporting Spunky would never have wanted to see that kind of behavior.
I'm just not sure what to think about the whole thing, but Spunky, I hope this doesn't reflect badly on you. You're still tops in our book!
In response to the above comment:
I offer my apologies.
I am one of those at fault. In defense, I can only say that I did not understand that what I was doing was cheating. If I had thought more, I may have figured it out.
I'm very sorry, Spunky and everyone else.
Will you forgive me?
Allison, since I'm the one who wrote the above comment, I feel like I should respond to your comment.
I can't speak for Spunky or anyone else, but from my perspective: Absolutely, you're forgiven! I didn't write my comment with the intention to "call anyone out", but I appreciate your honesty and humility.
Go and sin no more
I echo Steve's last two comments: I'm not sure how you could "cheat". They are taking away votes based on IP addresses, but OTOH, I thought the IP address was what blocked you from voting again for 24 hours...(I kept getting the "You have voted within the last 24 hours" message when I would return to the site).
For all the ground we may have "gained", we want the glory to go to God in all this...He'll get more glory with Spunky in second through honest votes.
Anyone who cheated, regardless if it was knowingly, intentionally or not, there is absolutely grace! I admire the honesty and truthfulness. Christians are NOT perfect..."Go and sin no more" (now Steve, how did you get the smiley face in the comment??)
God bless!
Jodi, just type a colon : followed immediately by a close-parenthesis ) and it will automatically turn it into the smiley face when you preview or post the comment.
: + ) =
Allison, absolutely I forgive you.
I will write an update and inform all of what happened as best I can determine from what I've been told.
Great job!
Thanks Steve!
YIKES! It's been awhile since I've checked out Sounky's blog (life has kind of gotten in the way). I must say I was absolutely shocked to read that Spunky will drop off of our radars. You will be EVER SO SORELY MISSED my dear! I have learned SO MUCH from your blog and will never, ever forget you.
God's most gracious blessings to you, Spunky. You've left an indelible mark on many a home schooler. Thank you for all your hard work.
Well, if it is from the Lord, I guess you should obey! But, I'm still secretly hoping you will occasionally pop back with a little post here and there - and I'm certainly hoping you'll leave up the existing blog for many years as an archive for others to read. We have at least 16 more years of homeschooling to do, and we intend to come back every so often to glean some more insight - and to keep us focused on the path to stay away from public school. God bless!
Wow, Karen, Good luck. I have not been reading blogs much, busy with Thanksgiving then Christmas prep then New Years...I've been blogging but not reading other blogs. The fact that you were ending your blogging on this blog is a real surprise.
God Bless You and your family.
Thanks for all your hard work on this blog.
Spunky,
You're the best! I've missed your regular, insightful posts on this site and hope you take to writing again someday for the rest of us to be encouraged. Thanks for all that you've done.
Your sister in Christ,
Kathleen
I know I'm a little behind on this... mainly because I have not been in the blog world daily. Thank you so so much for the information and insight you have provided me since I found your blog. Believe me, I am sure I will still refer to it. God bless as you follow his direction and will. I pray that He will continue to bless you abundantly.
With much appreciation and admiration,
Kate
I've been offline for a ocuple months taking care of business. I was just looking around this evening and am very late in finding that you are shutting down your blog.
You are an intelligent and articulate writer with a sharp sense of humor. I've enjoyed reading your blog. I'll sincerely miss it.
I assume at some point I will read you again. Though you are going on to other things, you will still be you...and it appears that part of you is a writer who needs to tell it and tell it like it is.
I came to your blog tonight because I've had a serious question I wanted to ask about homeschooling, but it would be a very unpopular question to ask among homeschoolers indeed. I'm fairly sure I would be lynched for asking it if I were to ask it in a public setting of homeschoolers.
After mulling it over a bit, I realized there was at least one woman out there of whom I could ask this question who would not jump up defensively and attack...but who might actually consider the question thoughtfully.
I was sad to see that you weren't here to ask...but glad that I didn't have to go undercover as Anonymous either. I detest that Anonymous moniker, tho it does come in handy sometimes.
God bless you, Spunky. And like I said, I'm sure I'll be reading you again sometime. A writer must write, you know.
-Shurleen
If you like to see your children thrive away from outside influences then home schooling is the next best thing...
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