{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.