Planning Our First Homeschool Year

Eeek. It's almost time to begin our first official homeschool year. You might remember my grump-laden post a few months back where I lashed out at our local public school. I am so grateful that I am getting this chance to teach my boys at home, although I don't know how long it's going to be an option. I'm really excited though, to get started with it and see where it takes us. 

I am really nervous about planning our first homeschool year. What are we going to do? What curriculum are we going to follow? I know this is all a really big deal and a big decision that all homeschooling mamas have to make. I'm worried that I will make the wrong choice. But, I am getting started, and that is what matters, right? Right? RIGHT? Cmon, people, make me feel better. . 

For now, I am browsing all my favorite homeschool blogs, and making lists, tons and tons of lists. I am getting some ideas, and deciding where we should go from here. I am pretty sure that we will go with an eclectic type of curriculum, something that I piece together myself, and nothing out of a box. 

I'm thinking perhaps a writing journal, lots of videos and hands on experiments and projects, tons of book reading, fun field trips and other fun stuff. But, I need some ideas for math. I don't know what the best math curriculum to use, what he will really connect with. I guess a lot of it is going to be trial and error... Any of you other homeschooling mamas have tips for me about deciding the best curriculum? 

I also need some help with planning our daily schedule as well. I am thinking a four day "real" school week, with the fifth day being used for field trips, park learning days, messy art projects and intense science experiments. I am pretty pumped about that and think it sounds fun. I am also going to plan on getting started at around 9am and being done between 1pm and 2pm, maybe earlier if we're lucky.... 

I guess I am just looking for tips and advice from other mamas, so if you have any, send it my way!