Life has a way bumping around like an out of balance washing machine. As homeschooling moms we can get so busy being responsible, we miss the very real need for refreshment—not only in ourselves, but in our kids. Come with me as we nestle in the evergreens, roast some marshmallows and talk about this.
I don’t know about you, but my real-life homeschooling is not what I thought it would be, and nowhere near perfect. Reality can hit pretty hard, especially when I don’t live up to my own standards. (But of course there’s beauty in the story . . . read on!)
We’re told that Christians should spend time with God, just like the old children’s song, “if you read your Bible and pray every day, then you’ll grow, grow, grow” . . . but if you don’t . . . then you’ll “shrink, shrink, shrink.” But we moms sometimes barely find time to brush our teeth, much less linger in “quiet moments.” God’s given me a new perspective on the “quiet time” ritual I grew up with and as usual, it’s bubbling over with grace!
Ugh! My mommy ego can sure get in the way when I make decisions about my children. It’s too easy to base my choices on the wrong whisper. Do you ever struggle with this?
Interacting in the writing world gives me the opportunity to meet many amazing people. Darrel, who was raised on the Red Lake Reservation, taught me a lot as he shared his story with me. I know you’ll learn from him, too.
Have you ever had your most treasured dream interrupted? My most treasured dream (after getting married and having children) was to be a writer. That dream was interrupted, but never forgotten. This article, full of the joy of living the dream, was written before the more complete fulfillment of that dream came my way—that first book contract. My addendum to this story can be found on my book page! Hang in there, Mom! Life has its seasons, but one season isn’t all you get!
My single-momma friend came to the rescue one day when I was tempted to quit homeschooling. Her story strengthened my faith and my faltering commitment to homeschool was re-established. I know she’s encourage you, too!
When my first homeschooled kiddo entered high school, this teacher-momma had a bit of a crisis, but in the end it all came down to the same thing. (BTW, this article was written a while back. I know how two homeschool graduates and two in highschool! Somehow it all happens. If I can do it, you can, too!)
God’s heart is full of joy and beauty, but He also grieves the suffering of humanity. How can we enter more fully into God’s heart and help our family develop compassion for those who suffer?
