I've been wondering where in the world I fit in our ministry for years...but my role has kind of been laid out before me as I raise 1, then 2, then 3 and then surprise! 4 kids. Whew. Although I am completely convinced my place first and foremost is taking care of my family, at times I have wanted "something" to call my own. At times I miss working outside the home, I miss talking with adults, or just getting out once in a while. I honestly thought homeschooling would be overwhelming and even more confining to our home. As you know, 5 weeks ago it was decided that homeschooling was the best option for our kids right now. So, despite my fears I determined I would do my best. After all, "this too shall pass."
Five weeks into school, I don't know if I want it "to pass". I am enjoying it. Yes, that is surprising to me. I admit, it is very time consuming, it's a lot of work, I get frustrated... in fact, very frustrated at times -- but then there is joy in seeing them grasp a new concept, pass a test, get excited about a subject, realize they remember something I've taught them... I really do enjoy teaching my kids. I love the variety of things we do. I love knowing exactly what they are studying, how they are doing and how they did throughout the day. I love seeing them get excited about a project and it sure helps us get through the nitty gritty stuff -- like math. There is a new connection with them in that I am a part of their learning process and it's become a part of our existence. "Oh guys, look at this spider! Count how many legs he has. Now is he a insect or not?" The unit on insects is going a long way! I THINK the kids are even enjoying it. Lauren won't quite admit that it's good but she will smile slightly and say "it's not so bad." I could jump for joy to hear those words. As it turns out, Adrianna has jumped up and does a lot of 2nd grade work while in the subjects that Dean struggles in (Math), I have held him back to join Adrianna in 1st grade. It works out well because I only have two grades that I'm teaching and Adrianna is an excellent motivator to keep Dean working. He needs the peer pressure even if it is from his sister. Lauren has to work a lot on her own which she does not prefer, but she is so capable and I'm right here to help her when she needs it.
Our favorite subject is called "The Mystery of History". World history starting at creation. I'll have to post some of their work for you to see. It's pretty fun and I love it too because I'm learning AND in one curriculum I give Lauren one project for her level and another for Dean and Adrianna and it all complements one lesson. Bless the woman who thought to put the study together so perfectly.
So on the days I sound tired and frustrated, remind me that there are days when I can honestly say, I enjoy this God-given endeavor. Maybe again, my role has been laid out for me, but for now, I am very content with where I am at.
