The glistening snow reigns supreme in this cold winter wonderland. Every sound and movement is brought to a crawl, as if time itself has shut its doors to the world. In front of me is a silent team; working in a rhythm that echoes the beauty around them. As I slow to a halt, I breathe a deep breath of content, and start my way up to the front ranks of this powerhouse line-up. As I get a big lick in the face, I realize that this is outdoor travel at its best; this is dog sledding.
Two years ago I was faced with the choice to either continue high school as most kids do or break away from the pack to begin my own path as a homeschooled student. As I pondered this great life changing decision in my life, I weighed out the pros and cons of each option. I decided that homeschooling was the best choice for me, even though I was still a bit apprehensive as to whether everything would work out well or not. Within months I knew my decision to be homeschooled was the correct choice.
Quickly, but with much effort, everything started to take shape; the fantastic position that I am in today is directly related to my choice to leave the traditional path of high school and take control of my own future.
Time to work with the dogs.
First, mushing is something that I have dreamt of for many years. I read a Gary Paulsen or Jack London book in the 7th grade, and haven’t been able to get the sport out of my head since.
Second, as I slowly progressed on my homeschooling path, I quickly realized that I could work hard on my academics and use the extra time I had to begin developing my own online company. SledDoggin.com is my online mushing information community that serves many countries around the world.
Third, at the same time I started homeschooling and my own company, I also began to create my own sled dog team. Add how many dogs you have and what you do with them. The extra time I had gained from homeschooling allowed me the free time to work with my dogs, which would not have been possible if I was on the traditional track of high school.
I attribute much of my mushing successes to the marvelous ability of time and means that was granted to me by being homeschooled. Not only do I have the ability to now graduate earlier from high school, but I also have been able to balance my time so that I can work on academics, train my dogs, and run my online business at the same time.
As my journey continues to wind down the trail of life, I am continually reaping home schooling’s benefits. As I look back, I am thrilled that I chose to give homeschooling a chance. It has blessed my life tremendously, and I will forever advocate this excellent learning opportunity. If you happen to see me at the Alaskan Iditarod, you can know it has become possible because of my homeschooling experience.
Originally written July 17, 2007
