{journey's end}

Our "baby's" graduation from 8th grade

Our homeschool journey came to an end this week.
And, by God's grace, a new journey begins.

My heart is full.
And somewhat (ok, a lot) tender.
And thankful.
After 13 years of homeschooling,
I'm pretty sure I learned more than our boys did.
God used our boys grown into men to change me;
to shine a bright light on my own pride, selfishness, and sin.
He used them to humble me and teach me.
They showed me grace and forgiveness when I lost my temper.
Being responsible for their schooling made me realize I didn't know as much as I thought I did.
And it made me cast myself upon God's mercy,
knowing I didn't have what it took to teach them well.
I needed Him.
Oh, how I needed Him!

Now, standing on the other side of the homeschool journey
there's no way to express the thankfulness of heart I feel.
I'm filled with unrestrained joy at the remembrance of all we've shared---
all we've learned and experienced together.
And I'm confident that as we transition into a new season---
hoping, releasing, launching, trusting---
and needing our Father God as much as ever---
He will continue the work He started in each of us.
In that promise I rest and rejoice.

The Journey

In just over a week, we'll be starting the final leg of the homeschool journey that began in 2000.

Back then---shaky-legged and unsure---all we knew to do was to take the next step.

Despite my best efforts to tell God why it was a bad idea,

He had clearly led us down this road.
It wasn't that this was a better way or the only way---
it was simply the way He was directing our family.

And so with our sons---ages 5, 3, and 1---
and a whole lotta fear and trepidation, we began.

It was hard.

The terrain was rough.

The footing was unsure.

I was easily distracted.

I was looking off and away at what others around me were doing.

I was comparing my walk to theirs.

I second-guessed myself and doubted and feared.

But God simply assured me of His presence.

And He prodded me to take that next step.

When  my foot slipped,

He held me up.

When I was exhausted,

He renewed my strength.

When I was uncertain of my ability,

He reminded me of His sufficiency.

And He blessed.

Somehow---in spite of me---

the boys grew and flourished.

We all did.
Together we learned and gathered the tools needed for life,
building upon our solid foundation.
We didn't do it perfectly.
We made lots of mistakes.
But the journey that once seemed so unending and arduous

became the means by which God ushered in grace and new growth and deep connections.
Oh, it was still rocky and scary at times,
but as God often reminded me,
"He who called you is faithful;
He will surely do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:24
We were desperate for Him and leaning on Him each step of the way.
And He faithfully did what we could not.

Now, with two who have already flown from our little homeschool nest and our last who will take flight a year from now, I shake my head in utter amazement.
The time went so very fast.
But my wistful heart rejoices in the God
who called us and led us and equipped us to
launch our sons with purpose and passion.

Whatever you're facing, reading friends---
whether the journey is winding or rocky or uncertain---
take courage knowing that our God will not abandon you.
If He has called you,
step out in full confidence and obedience,
knowing that He is faithful.
He will surely do it.

And Then There Was One.

We started homeschooling 11 years ago.
Eleven years of boys---and their mama---
reading, learning, exploring, experimenting.
Setting out on high adventures.
Stretching, growing, and, for me,
sometimes pulling my hair out
and wondering if I was gonna make it.
Eleven years of humbly, desperately
seeking God for wisdom and guidance,
often admitting I have no idea what I'm doing;
asking God to shape and mold our boys,
to be gracious and overcome my failures
with His sufficiency.
And He did.
His grace and mercy was at every turn.
He blessed.

In teaching our boys, I taught myself.

I began to better understand how history is the story

of how God has shown His grace and faithfulness

throughout generations.

It made me love it---and Him---all the more.

Two years ago we sent out our oldest son from here---

Lord-willing, with a firm foundation;

with a vision, a desire, and a single-minded passion to

make much of His Creator.

And prayerfully, he entered high school

well-equipped and grounded.

This year, our middle son joined him---

he, too, with the tools, the heart, and a growing devotion

to know and follow His Savior.

It went so fast.

Two sons embracing "the mission" they learned

within these walls;

learning how to live it out outside of them.

And now only one of my original three students remains.

And things are different.  And a whole lot quieter.

But I'm incredibly excited.

I'm glad to embrace these current days with

our youngest---virtually the only "one-on-one"

days we've ever had. 

There's a whole lot more learning and growing

for this mama to do.

And I'm incredibly grateful to share it with

such a fun, engaging, and remarkable young man.

Let's do it, Luke!  I love you!

Milestones Lately

It's been an eventful month filled with
lots of extraordinary moments and milestones
to tuck away in my heart for safe keeping.
Each has been drenched in grace---
a reminder of God's faithfulness
even among seemingly constant change.

Among them...


2011 Prom Alternative with two of my favorite men



Our oldest son starred as Gilbert Blythe
in his high school's rendition of "Anne of Green Gables."  Fantastic!



Our middle son completed 8th grade---and his homeschool career. 
He's eagerly looking ahead to beginning high school in the fall. 
I'm giving thanks for the blessing of being his teacher all these years---and I'm excited for him---
but man, I'm gonna miss him.

 







Our youngest son earned his Timothy Award in AWANA.



He also starred as King Josiah in his final youth musical at church. 
With that he completed 6th grade and is moving on to Jr. High (and youth group)!



In all these milestone moments and joyful occasions, our prayer for our boys remains that they will continue to grow as Jesus did.   May they ever be growing in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man  (Luke 2:52).

Capture his heart..

School begins once again this week. This year our line-up includes a high school sophomore, an 8th grader, and a 6th grader.

I look at these handsome, capable boys with such God-given potential. Though far from perfect, I see in them an ever-growing sense of who He made them to be.

When they were babies, I began praying a prayer...a simple prayer. Cradling them in my arms...leaning over their crib...tiptoeing into their rooms and kissing each forehead at night, I'd pray, "Capture his heart, Lord."

Capture has been defined as
To take captive; to seize.
To gain possession or control of
To attract and hold


As we embark upon this brand new school year, my dreams, goals, and desires are many. I want each of our sons to grow and flourish. I want them to lead. I want them to succeed. But more than high grades, acceptance by peers, and worldly success, I'm crying out, "Oh, God, capture their hearts. Take control of their lives and seize them for your very own. Draw them...hold them...use them. Help them to find their greatest delight and only satisfaction in You."

The prayer that began so many years ago continues today. May it be true of their dad and me, too.

Capture our hearts, God. May we be wholly yours.

To Everything, Turn, Turn, Turn...

Nine years ago now I was eagerly, nervously, and expectantly preparing for my first year of homeschooling. I had fears and doubts, questions and uncertainties. Yet my husband and I were also confident that this was what God was leading us to do. Yes, there would be challenges. Yes, there would be gaps. Yes, there would be things I'd need to learn right along with our boys. But at that time (and many times since then), I took courage in this verse:

"He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it."

1 Thessalonians 5:24

As we launched into homeschooling, our hope and desire was to give our sons a firm foundation. We wanted them to become well-grounded in their faith. We wanted them to find their identity in being loved by God and their family. Now, I know many wonderful parents who have chosen other schooling options and share those same desires. Their hearts and longings for their children are no different ~ we've simply been led through different means.

Our desire 9 years ago...and each year since then...has been that by the time our sons reached high school age, they'd be well-prepared to enter a public high school. Now, there's nothing automatic about readiness in 9th grade. We've clearly recognized that one son may be ready in 9th grade...another in 10th...or perhaps another not at all. We're prayerfully considering each son's unique make-up, personality, and leanings. What works for one may not work for another.

But with that said, our desire has been that with a firm foundation, our sons will be ready, while living in our home, to enter high school and make a difference for Christ; that they'll be able to lead; to stand firmly in their faith and live it out in such a way that they impact those around them with His love. That's not to say they'll be perfect. That's not to say they won't struggle. It's simply saying that through the challenges, growing pains, and tough lessons, we want to walk beside them and help them navigate the rough waters while still living in our home.

Nine years ago, that "someday" seemed so far off. High school? It was eons away.

But here it is.

And as we re-evaluated, prayed, and asked ourselves questions, we came to the undeniable, joyful, frightening conclusion.

He's ready.

Are we?

For this mama's heart, the pain is often unbearable. The stretching of my heart is so intense. And the stretching of my faith is, perhaps, unlike any other time in my life.

And it's good. Because as much as I'd love to remain the one who provides for and meets all my son's needs, he and I are both learning that there is only one who will not fail him; one who can be trusted. As much as I'd like to shield him from hurt and temptation and rejection, we're both learning that the Lord is his shield---the lifter of his head. As much as I'd like to cling to him, stop time, and keep things "un-changed," I'm learning that the love, mercy, and grace of our heavenly Father is unchanging. As one who's not big on change, I take delight in that knowledge! And I'm being reminded that my son and I both have a purpose: to proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). I believe with all my heart that God is going to use our son to impact his world for Christ!

So while the tears are never far away these days, I'm learning to trust. And as I've prayed for years, I continue to pray that God captures and captivates the hearts of each of our sons; that He places in them such a hunger to know Him; that He plants in them a heart fully committed to Him and His purposes. And I pray that He'll give them courage and wisdom as they boldly testify to His work in their lives with a world who desperately needs Him.

My Firstborn

First day of Kindergarten ~ August 2000

8th Grade Graduation ~ May 2009

Not a lot of words tonight. Just a lot of thankfulness to God from a full, bursting heart...

He Will Surely Do It

It wasn't intended to be a guilt trip. Really.

But after periodically mentioning our school plans over the past few weeks, and receiving groans from all three of our boys each time, I was frustrated. I casually mentioned one day last week, "It would be nice if you could show a little enthusiasm about the new school year."

The truth is, I know that it's not unusual or uncommon for 13, 11, and 9 year old boys to grudgingly say farewell to summer, whether homeschooled or not. The problem was...and I believe herein was the source of my frustration...that I wasn't really excited about the new school year either. When our sons were very young, homeschooling seemed a whole lot simpler. Teach 'em to read? Check! Teach 'em to add? Got that, too! They snuggled with me on the couch as we read together. We went on frequent field trips. It was simple...easy. Or perhaps it's just that I now stand on the other side, looking back through rose-colored glasses.

These days, as Algebra and research papers loom on the horizon, the task before me seems bigger...harder...more significant; like the stuff I mess up on today is going to have longer-lasting and further-reaching consequences than my mess-ups when they were five. As our oldest son stands only one year away from high school, I'm regularly taking inventory of where he is compared to where he "should be." As his schedule fills up with more outside activities and we seek to provide wise balance for him and his brothers, I'm feeling a whole new weight of responsibility.

But more than the academics, we're seeking to be tuned into their character and their spiritual growth. Obviously, we can't MAKE any of these things happen, but we can prayerfully keep a spiritual pulse for where they're at. Do they have a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit? Are they humbly walking with Christ? Are they learning what it means to be a servant? Do they speak truthfully? Are they showing grace to one another? And the questions go on and on...

In my flesh, it all seems daunting. I feel inadequate...unfit...ill-prepared.

But when I lift my eyes off myself...when I remind myself of the TRUTH of God's Word, rather than listening to my human fears and doubts, my heart soars! Oh, our boys are far from perfect; they're dirty rotten sinners like their dad and me. But through those places where I feel I've dropped the ball in their academics; through the "should-have-done-it-that-way-instead" moments, God has reminded me that we are providing our boys with a firm foundation. One of our great desires when we began homeschooling 8 years ago was that our boys would be well-grounded in their faith. And though there are times I doubt and question my own abilities, I can't question God's ability through me. He is doing far more in our boys than I could every dream up. And as I'm faithful to be obedient to what He's called me to do, I can trust Him with the results.

On the afternoon following my little admonishment to our boys last week, I went to church to work on a few projects. When I returned home, I was greeted by the handiwork of our youngest son. He'd painstakingly made a huge banner that stretched across our livingroom. He'd taped together numerous sheets of paper and, in his sweet 9-year-old writing, written the simple words: "School Is Coming!!!" [emphasis his]

And as I pulled him to me and snuggled him in my arms, my heart smiled. Yep, school is coming. And the God who calls me is faithful; He will surely do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:24

Plants Growing Up

From the time one becomes a parent, older, well-seasoned parents and grandparents admonish us to enjoy these days...they go so fast.

Even as the mom of babies and toddlers, I recognized the swift passage of time. I watched in awe as my babies grew and discovered the world and developed new skills. But time only accelerates from there...

Each year seems to pass more quickly than the last. In the blink of an eye, that formerly "little" boy has gone from Legos to bass guitars. Our oldest son's looks have changed so much in the past year. He no longer has that "baby face" of his youth. He now has the face of a handsome teenager. Every once in a while, he flashes this smile that looks exactly like the cheesy grin he made when he was a little guy, between the ages of 3 and 5. When he does this, my mind flashes back to his little boy days, and I'm reminded that the little boy I cuddled on my lap is still in this big-boy body that's taller than me. And while I used to encompass this little guy in a hug, it's now his taller frame and arms that encompass me.

Our school year is coming to a swift close, and I'm simply awed at the growth in each of our boys over this past year. My heart overflows with gratitude as I consider how God has taught them and further developed their interests and passions.

As I mentioned, our oldest son has taken to playing the bass guitar. I've never in my life seen him go after anything with such determination and enthusiasm. Let's just say it's a huge departure from his piano-playing days when I had to bribe him to practice! He practices practically non-stop...and has the callouses to prove it! Last night he and a buddy played three songs at our Homeschool End of Year Program. It was a joy to my heart to see him using his God-given talent to bring honor and glory to the Lord.


Our middle son has always had an insatiable interest in animals...their care, their habitats, their life cycles. While we've had pets, my husband and I had grown convicted that we really needed to provide additional opportunities for our son to work with animals and grow in his knowledge of them. So it was with great excitement that he began working with a friend of ours on a Llama farm this Spring. He worked with her a couple Saturdays a month, feeding and cleaning up after the llamas and calves...and playing with the kittens. Life on the farm is a dream come true for our son, and it's been a joy to watch him grow in knowledge and confidence as he learns to care for God's creation.


As our third son finishes up third grade, we're still seeking to wisely discern his specific interests. The most obvious is his desire to be with people. I'm sure that's reminiscent of a third child...he's never been alone his whole life, so it just stands to reason that he loves being where the action is. His personality also closely resembles my husband's...he's funny without trying, he's comfortable in social settings, he doesn't mind being up in front of people. As an 8-year-old, we're praying that God will continue to develop these traits in our son and use them to further His Kingdom.

Father God, just as the trees are budding and their leaves are unfolding outside my window, I thank you for new growth in our boys. There are days when it seems like nothing is happening; days when our hearts can become weary by an apparent lack of growth or understanding. But I thank You that You're at work beneath the surface; that these tender young plants are developing a root system that goes down deep and will one day stand as mighty oaks. Continue to capture their hearts. Help us to cultivate their passions and interests in a way that is pleasing to You and helps to build the Body of Christ. We thank You for the privilege of nurturing and discipling these amazing young men for You.

Those Teachable Moments

Prior to our trip to Washington D.C., I'd grin inside when I'd hear one of our boys declare, "No school for a week and a half!" Little did they know...

My husband had contacted our representative and arranged a Capitol tour through his office. Catching sight of the Capitol for the first time that beautiful autumn morning was a thrilling experience. In fact, daily we were face to face with famous structures and monuments that we'd seen on tv and in books all our lives. Seeing each one brought about that same sense of wonder and thanksgiving.

Walking the halls of the Capitol Building was truly awe-inspiring. Remembering the great leaders who had walked those same halls; reflecting on the monumental events that had taken place there; pondering God's extravagant grace thorughout our history...all these things gave cause for solemn respect and gratitude. The Rotunda itself was remarkable with its beautiful murals and paintings which convey the history of our nation. I thought of the Presidents who have died and laid in state there in the Rotunda. There truly are no words...

The entire tour was so compelling. But we received a blessing we hadn't anticipated. We were able to sit in on the House of Representatives and witness a couple of votes take place while we were there. What a thrill to see hundreds of representatives trickle, then flood, into the House Chamber. I was mindful of all that our boys were learning and experiencing firsthand. Oh, it's one thing to teach it, but here they were witnessing it for themselves!

Following our tour at the Capitol, we made our way to the Air & Space Museum. My personal favorite highlight here was the original Wright flyer. Just incredible! Due to the fact that the Museum of American History is currently closed for rennovations, a portion of their museum is on display in the Air & Space Museum. It did not disappoint! We marveled at Abraham Lincoln's hat, Lewis & Clark's compass, and Dorothy's ruby slippers. Oh, and who am I kidding? R2D2 and C3PO were pretty cool, too!

Obviously, the learning experiences were rich and plentiful. Our boys have talked frequently about the things they saw and heard and experienced...things that they will never forget. But don't tell them they learned anything on vacation, because as far as they're concerned, it was just a week and a half of fun!

Lessons for the Teacher

Day one complete.

Initially, I'd have to say it wasn't quite the banner "back to school" day I'd dreamed about in my earlier years of homeschooling. In recent years, I've learned to put those former expectations of grandeur and glory aside and simply take each day as it comes. I've also learned that many times, I'm likely learning way more than our boys are. Today is one of those days...

Our boys were a delight in every sense of the word. Good attitudes, cooperation, flexibility...you name it, they had it. It was their mom who had the issues. While we were taking all of our "first day of school" pictures outside this morning, I heard the phone ring. I chose to let the answering machine pick up.

We proceeded to have our devotions together, as well as some fun first day of school activities. Needless to say, it was quite a while before I remembered to listen to the aforementioned message. When I finally did, my heart lurched out of my chest. Our 7th grade son is participating in an Apologia General Science (7) Co-Op this year, and I was thinking it started next Tuesday. The message was from my friend, reminding me to bring something when I came for class this afternoon.

This afternoon? No, no... you must be wrong! Class starts next week...right?

Nuh-uh.

And not only does class start today, it's my responsibility to shop for all the supplies for each lab. I signed up for it back in May. I'd planned to shop for all of next week's supplies this Thursday. And now I was jolted with the reality that this class was today, and I had nothing for the experiment! All these students and families were relying on me! If that weren't enough, our family is currently down to one vehicle as our other one is in the shop. And I'd cheerfully told my husband to take it to work this morning, declaring we had no extra classes till next Tuesday!

I hurriedly called him at work, but much to my dismay, he wasn't in his office. I left what I'm sure was a rather frantic, pathetic-sounding message on his voice mail. When he returned my call, he assured me he'd come home for an early lunch so that I could take him back, go to the store, and buy the necessary supplies before our 1:30 class.

My head was spinning with all that I had to pull together for this afternoon, and in my heart I grimaced as I heard our 8-year-old calling me with a question about his math. I prayed as I ascended the stairs, asking God to help me respond to him with grace and patience. It wasn't his fault that his mom is so scatter-brained! Soon our 12-year-old called me with a question of his own. Once again, my flesh was prone to respond in selfish disgust, and I pleaded with God to strengthen me and help me to respond in love. With each question asked of me by our boys, my blood pressure began to soar, and my heart cried out, "God, I can't do this today! I need You!"

When each of the boys were finally done with their independent studies, we came together for our read-aloud. Sitting with them in our livingroom, I began reading. And I noticed that my heart was calm. I was tuned in to the story and could actually tell you what it was about. My mind was engaged in the moment, and my heart was at rest.

And then it hit me that I was finally doing what God desires of me everyday, not just in the chaotic mornings like today. I was abiding in Him. Oh, yes, I've prayed about our school year for weeks. I've prayed for our boys and our studies and the unity of our home. But today God reminded me that I need Him every moment of every hour. In those moments when I'm tempted to respond in the flesh (and all too often give in), I can cry out right then and ask Him to help me. No, it's not a deep, profound lesson, but for me, it was a timely, much-needed reminder. I don't have to try harder or do it myself. I simply need to cry out to Him and hide myself in Him. Apart from Him, I can do nothing.

Okay, I'm finally getting to the end of the story. We enjoyed a peaceful lunch around our table, I dropped my husband back at work, drove to the store, and quickly purchased all the needed items for today's lab. I was back to church by 12:50...40 minutes before classtime. I artfully arranged all the supplies on the lab table so that they would be easily accessible to today's teacher and the students. No one would be the wiser regarding my massive brain cramp!

One of the co-teachers soon arrived and noted the lab supplies all laid out. I was feeling preeettty proud of myself! It was then she dropped da bomb.

No lab today. First lab ~ next week.

Author, Author!

You know how it is when you discover that great new product or service? You just want to tell everyone about it so that they, too, can experience the wonder that is yours! That's how I feel today!

It's not often that our children are given the opportunity to be taught by famous authors. Imagine, then, our delight when we learned that Dave & Neta Jackson offer writing workshops to homeschool students! You will most likely recognize them as the authors of the dearly loved Trailblazer series, exciting stories which introduce children to great heroes of the faith. The Jacksons have also written Hero Tales, Volumes 1-4. I've noted that these books seem to be a staple in many homeschooling homes. Most recently, Neta is known for her soul-stirring books for women...the Yada Yada Prayer Group series. Our family has enjoyed numerous Trailblazer books along our homeschooling journey, and we've read through Hero Tales many times. Additionally, I read my first Yada Yada book while on vacation two years ago, and as I told Neta today, it truly challenged me in my walk with God.

We'd contacted Dave & Neta and invited them to visit our homeschool group. Today was the first of two exciting days---the Jacksons conducted writing workshops for our 4th through 6th grade students (grades 7-9 join us tomorrow). They are such a delight! They have a special way of engaging kids---drawing them out and inspiring them. Through both group and individual activities, they really gave our kids the tools to better writing. I was particularly grateful for the ways that they offered encouragement and helpful suggestions for growth. Even our two oldest boys, who are generally less than thrilled with writing, feel newly equipped. And this mom who likes to dabble in writing is feeling pretty inspired, too.

Book Love

"Book love. It will make your hours pleasant to you as long as you live." ~ Anthony Trollope

Encourage one another...

Our new FIAR selection this week is "The Hickory Chair" by Lisa Rowe Faustino. It's the sweet story of a young boy's relationship with his grandmother. Upon her passing, the family discovers that she'd hidden sweet notes among her belongings, indicating which of her possessions she wished for each of her loved ones to receive.

Upon the conclusion of the story this morning, our youngest son was inspired. He looked up at me and asked, "Can we write notes to one another and hide them around the house?" I thought he had an excellent idea, so before we knew it, each of us was secretly composing and hiding our notes of encouragement for the others.

I couldn't have guessed how meaningful this simple exercise would turn out to be. Or how timely. So many times, Mondays can be somewhat of a grind: Playing catch-up from the weekend. Trying to get back on task in school after a busy weekend. Reining in energetic boys. But here we were, searching for simple little notes that the other family members had written to bring a bit of extra joy into the day.

My heart nearly burst as I heard each of the boys read the notes they'd received from their brothers and me. Here's a sampling:

...from 7-year-old to

* 10-year-old brother ~ You're doing good taking care of Nipper (our new guinea pig)

* 12-year-old brother ~ You're doing good in AWANA.

* Mom ~ I'm praying for you.

The other notes were deemed "private" by the older boys, so I'll respect their privacy and not share them here. But my heart is encouraged that, though I don't often hear our boys expressing their love and appreciation for one another, they really do love, enjoy, and respect each other.

And on this Monday, that reminder has poured courage and strength into this mama's heart.

Letting Our Voices Be Heard...

I'm sure you'd agree that one of the best things about homeschooling is that we are able to give our children the opportunity to experience life. We don't simply tell them about the election process, we give them the opportunity to be involved in it. We discuss our freedoms and responsibilities as American citizens and give them safe outlets to make an impact.

Prior to today, we've discussed many of the current issues with our sons. We've discussed the beliefs held by the candidates, and in their own childlike ways, our boys have a pretty clear understanding of what is at stake during this election.

With that said, Election Day is an exciting day at our house! As is our tradition, our family joined several homeschooling friends out at the busy intersections of our city. We held signs in support of our chosen candidates. The kids enthusiastically jumped up and down and cheered! We waved to supporters...and we received a few jeers. But we respectfully and eagerly made our voices heard.

I've been pondering today's events this afternoon, praying that God will use this experience to further develop leadership skills in our boys. I'm praying that He will use experiences such as today to build in them depth of character and a conviction to stand up for what they believe.

Autumn Weekend

I love fall, and this weekend has simply served as a reminder of all the reasons I love it! It held outdoor activities, crisp, cool weather, a hayride, and a warm, cozy evening with our beloved friends.

Yesterday was our Homeschool Fall Field Day. The dads of our homeschool group gladly accepted responsibility for this activity and ran with it. They did such a great job!

Kindergarten through 6th graders participated in various kinds of races and friendly competition. We'd reserved the track and field of a local high school, and our kids thought it was a blast to run on a "real" track. Events included long distance run, sprint, sack race, softball toss, soccer skills, obstacle course, and broad jump.


The afternoon found my guys at the annual AWANA hayride. They had a great time "out at the farm" with their friends.

As my husband and I awaited our friends' arrival last evening, the sky grew dark and it began to downpour. The rain fell heavy for several minutes, but soon ceased. As our friends pulled up to our house, we were all delighted to look up into the sky and see the most vibrant and brilliant rainbow ever.

I was particularly grateful for this sign from God in the sky. My heart has been burdened and conflicted lately. There's so much that's been weighing heavily on my heart, and I often feel weary. As I looked up in wonder at this beautiful rainbow in the sky, I was reminded that God keeps His promises. His character never changes. He is always the same.

How I thank God for His loving care...for providing me with reminders that I can trust Him to keep His promises.

Back to School

We just completed our first day of school, and I'm feeling pretty upbeat about the day. Part of me is a bit overwhelmed by the increased workload as our boys grow older. I feel I barely have time to fit my household chores in between classes, so I'll need to do some additional tweaking. But all in all, the boys' attitude was positive and optimistic. Despite the fact that they claimed they weren't looking forward to school starting again, they eagerly embraced the day and all that it held.

I was thankful for my husband's support when I returned home from my run this morning. He'd already been praying for our first day of school and asked how he could be praying specifically throughout the day. I'm so thankful that we're in this thing together!

And thanks to my mom, the boys had a sweet suprise for me before we started school this morning. As we were preparing to begin, they each entered the room with their hands behind their backs and presented me with 3 affirming teacher gifts--- a couple of #1 Teacher ornaments and a "World's Sharpest Teacher" pin (which they insisted I put on immediately). My heart was blessed and encouraged.

Thanks, guys!

Our devotions this morning were meaningful and memorable. I asked the boys why they thought that we have chosen to homeschool them. They gave some thoughtful and insightful answers, but then our 7-year-old came up with this classic reply: "Because if we get expelled, we're already here! We don't have to get sent home!" Man, that kid cracks me up! On a more serious note, though, I shared with them the verses that have come to mean so much to me in our home school, and I share them with you in closing:

"...that their hearts may be encouraged,
being knit together in love,
to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding
and the knowledge of God's mystery , which is Christ,
in whom are hidden all the treasures of
wisdom and knowledge."
Colossians 2:2-3

Rest, Relaxation, and Renewal

As we completed our school year in May, I was feeling desperately in need of a break. I was weary, drained, and burned out. I tearfully told my husband that I wasn't even sure I wanted to homeschool anymore. I'm thankful that he quietly listened to my heart and allowed me to vent, while all the while I know he was praying that God would renew my vision and refresh my heart.

While I was well-acquainted with many of the emotions I was feeling (I've come to expect them near the end of each school year), I was a bit surprised by the depth of my frustration. I shouldn't be surprised, though, that God always gives us what we need. He'd given me exactly what I'd needed to finish our school year strong. It wasn't till after we were "done" that I finally let down...and I view this as His grace to me. He'd empowered me with His strength to keep on keeping on. And finally, with the official school year behind us, I sensed Him telling me, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29

Though this summer has often been busier than I'd like, God has used the break from routine to renew my heart, my mind, and my strength. I have, indeed, found rest for my soul. This renewal came not from a change in circumstances, but a change in heart. God has graciously revealed my sinfulness...my self-centeredness that insists on my desires, my plans, my goals. As I've gotten alone with Him throughout these summer months, He's gently rebuked me and whispered in my ear, "My child, stop striving and know that I am God." How often I let my schedule and busyness dictate my time with Him! Yet He longs for me to drop my consumption with the stuff of life and embrace the "one thing that is necessary." He's used these months to do a bit of heart surgery; to renew my vision and my hope.

Two months ago I was feeling empty. God has taken the emptiness and filled me with Himself. Two months ago I was feeling overwhelmed, incapable, and weak. He's sent me countless reminders of His all-sufficiency, faithfulness, and strength. Two months ago I was feeling exhausted. He's been faithful to provide needed rest through time with Him in His Word. He's also provided rest, relaxation, and renewal through countless fun times with my precious family and friends (more on that in a later post).

I'm thankful that this summer vacation has been so much more than a simple break from routine. It's been an extended personal retreat that has brought about the rest, relaxation, and renewal that I was so desperately craving.

And yes, I'm eagerly anticipating our 7th year of homeschooling!

Happy President's Day!

"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way." 1 Timothy 2:1-2

We've had such a fun day learning more about our presidents and thanking God for the way He's used them throughout our American history.

The boys took an online Presidential Quiz this morning...they all passed with flying colors! We're in the process of learning all the presidents (in order) to the tune of "Ten Little Indians," so we had lots of laughs as we attempted to get through them all. As a side note, ever since our youngest son was a toddler, we've asked him who his favorite president is...to which he's always replied..."James K. Polk!" I guess he's just always liked the sound of it! The highlight of his day was making his own rendition of Lincoln's Log cabin.


We enjoyed listening to the song, "Hail to the Chief" and learning a little of the history behind it. While our boys built (with Lincoln Logs, of course), I read them stories of Presidents Washington and Lincoln. Even they were touched by these men's honor and integrity. Washington's Prayer at Valley Forge moves me to tears every time I read it.

This evening we'll spend some time praying for President and Mrs. Bush...and thanking God for the many ways He's blessed our great nation.

Our First Day of School

Today's the day! Once again I have the joy of teaching and learning with my little boys...boys who are not so little anymore...boys who are quickly becoming amazing young men. As I've been preparing for another new year of homeschooling, God has given me a renewed vision of the task before me. It's one thing to teach our boys to read, to multiply, to recognize parts of speech, to identify constellations, and to have a greater understanding of our nation's history. Though daunting at times, I've done (or am doing) those things, and the boys are making tremendous strides in all these areas.

But of far greater importance, I've been reflecting on the monumental task we've been given in discipling the hearts of our boys. God has given us the task of shaping our boys hearts...giving them a heartbeat for Him...modeling what it means to follow after Him passionately.

This truth has caused me to once again evaluate my walk with Christ. In reading Deuteronomy 6, I'm reminded that my walk with Christ is paramount to training our young boys' hearts.

"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates (vs. 4-9).

Before God ever instructs me to teach our boys anything, He addresses me. He deals with the issues of my heart. He wants all of me, not the partial, half-hearted sacrifices of time I'm so often tempted to give Him. He wants to radically change my life from within...to make me wholly His alone. And I recognize anew that it's only when I'm filled with Him that I have anything to pour into our boys. Oh, that God would take this too-often stubborn, wayward heart of mine and make it completely His. This is my prayer.