Delighting in the Days....

Oct. 24, 2006 - Having a little trouble

I was going to say that I have a bit of "blogger’s block", but that is not really it. While there is a list a mile long of things I want to write about, there is only one that keeps coming to my mind. That is to tell you that I am have a little trouble.

I hate to admit it because I don’t like to put fodder out there for those who wish to tear down homeschooling. It is not BIG trouble, mainly my own doubts and trying to keep up with everything.

In the past I have worked as a waitress. I remember the feeling that would come over me when 10 tables would fill up at once and I was responsible for them all. They all wanted menus, they all wanted their order taken...and they wanted it NOW. Lately I have experienced that feeling again. I think it is because there is so much to do. My daughter is learning to help in many areas, but there is still much for me to do on my own. I’m sure you all know what I am talking about. When your kids are young it takes time to show them how to do things - although it is well worth the effort, it is time consuming. Keeping the home running smoothly, cleaning, cooking, preparing for homeschool, and "doing" schooling... is a lot. I want to do all of this...I am just not that good at it yet. Sometimes I am....but only for a little while.

Physical tiredness and illness are not helping . Recently I have not felt well and this is making all of the above more difficult.

My doubts and fears are also playing their part. Are you teaching her the right things? Will she know what she needs to know? Be careful not to squelch her love of learning, Etc... It is a good thing I am starting when she is in kindergarten!

Now.....how much of a "whiner" (or "whinger" in Aussie) am I? There are many people who deal with a lot more than I do!! I am well aware of that. Not only do they have more to deal with, but they deal with it much more efficiently! I want to be better than I am.

Here is what I am working on:

More time in the word.

More time in prayer.

Saying "no" to more outside stuff.

Keeping scheduled chore time.

Exercise

Getting enough sleep.

This is a strange post for me to write. I don’t like everyone knowing all this. But maybe it will help someone else who is struggling know they are not alone.

I would not consider giving up homeschooling for a minute. I can’t imagine how much more stress I would feel if my children were in school. The elementary school here is only a block from our house. A few days ago I heard the principal come over the loudspeaker and say, "The school is on lock down". I looked out the window to see if anything was going on. My husband was home and I said, "Can you imagine how scared we would be if our daughter was at school and we heard that!". He said, "You would be running down there" Thankfully, I don’t have to. I believe it is the best thing I can do to keep my children home with me. It requires strength, faith and diligence. All of which I am striving to attain.

Now that’s off my chest maybe I can write something else! I feel better already!

Have a good day.

Stacy

• Post A Comment!

Oct. 24, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by timbuck2mom

Stacy, I think everyone feels the same as you. It's not easy wearing so many hats. Everything will not be in order like we want it to be in our homes. I was raised by a very clean mother but when I married and had 6 kids, you have to finally face the facts that your home cannot be perfectly clean 24/7. This is frustrating for me but it's because sometimes I care about my house more than my kids.

The most important thing I think we can remember is that relationships are the most important. If your little girl and you are enjoying each other that is the main thing. People, not things, are what count.

Our kids will learn and enjoy learning if they see us modeling a love of learning. It is impossible to cover everything. Even public school children have gaps in their education. Even I am still learning.

Hang in there. You'll find the middle of the road in time. Of course, I'm still trying to find that middle ground. :) Be of good courage!

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Oct. 24, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Leigharev2

Where is it written that we must always be on top of things, ALWAYS? I hope you understand the perspective that everyone (including school teachers) become overwhelmed at times, trying to do it all, and do it well. It's not a sign of failure, it's a sign of being human. I can totally relate to your waitress analogy. It took me years to shake the stress dreams I would get, caused by waitressing.
This is not fodder for the anti-homeschool people. This is simply a reality that everyone faces when they strive to do anything well. I personally would feel more unsettled by the person who exclaims they have no issues, challenges, or fears. This leads to complacency and no need in turning to relying on God for support and guidance. Anyway, hugs to you. You are doing an awesome job.

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Oct. 24, 2006 - ((Stacy))

Posted by Mamma1420

A hug for you because ALL of us have our weaknesses and areas for improvement. Even the homeschool naysayers don't have it all together (one of the reasons they naysay). You're doing a great job, you have them home with you and no matter what your chore schedule is or anything else- you've already done the important part- making the decision to influence your children's lives.

Now the praying bit will help if you can accomplish nothing else. LOL We're all in the same boat with you!
Hugs and blessings
Jessica

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Oct. 24, 2006 - Stacy,

Posted by reformingmama

Thank you for being so transparent. I'll pray for you.
I know I'm not yet homeschooling, but my encouragement to you would be to PRAY. God will show you what needs to be dropped, what needs to be strengthened, and the best part: HE WILL EQUIP YOU! :)
And maybe you could try writing a family mission statement, and knocking off "extras" from there? (Kendra's recent post).
And in the meantime, just love God and love your husband and children. :) You can do that. :)
~Stacy

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Oct. 26, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by lindafay

Stacy,

You are expressing what all mothers feel at various times in our lives. I remember feeling this way a few years back while ill. Keeping on top of everything seemed hopeless- and I am a pretty organized kind of gal. It still wasn't enough. As I look back I realized it was just a season of my life. Everything eventually fell into place - in time. I really believe that if a mother is striving to do her best, though stumbling, and she cries out to the Lord for wisdom and help, he hears and helps when it is most needed. This has been my continual experience. Trials also force us to lean on Him for help, which He delights in, don't you think?

love,
linda

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About Me

I am an Australian married to an American, currently living in the U.S.A. Join me as I strive to delight in the moments that make up our days and aim to have a happy family that loves God and serves others.