Saturday, July 5, 2008
~A Homeschool Dad~

It has been awhile since I have written a blog entry about homeschooling. I have a lot on my heart and in my mind about our new year of learning, but I've been reluctant to post it on my blog. I am so thankful as we begin our 4th year of homeschooling for some things that have had over the last few months. The first thing I want to share is about my husband, the next thing will about our homeschool support group, and lastly will be on friendships.
My husband attended our homeschool convention this June with me. It was a precious time for us. Together we were humored and encouraged by Todd Wilson. Last year my husband came on board our homeschool 100%. This year he is leading it! I thank God for this growth. With these changes I've had to learn to let go and encourage his leadership. Sometimes that means a little give, I pray that he is feeling my letting loose of the reins.
The other day I went to put something on our magnetic/white board. I looked up and smiled.
My husband had written:
1. Write out our homeschool vision statement.
That evening we were finishing up our dinner, alone. The children had quickly finished, returning to play outside. I told him how much I appreciate his desire to write a vision statement for our homeschool. His response was typical of my husband. "You probably have one written somewhere, but I think we need to get something typed up and framed for our wall. The girls need to understand that we are in this for a reason and to the end."
I will share it once we get it written out.
I don't want to make it sound like my husband has never wanted me to homeschool. He just didn't see the advantages when we first started in 2005. He never complained or discouraged me, but he never supported or encouraged me either. Now he pushes me when I'm procrastinating planning for the next year. And he reads through curriculum choices, instead of pushing it aside and saying "do whatever you want". He gives input and suggestions when he sees something that would not be right for our home. I pray that I do not become stubborn or prideful but listen to my husband's wisdom.
If your husband isn't 100% on board with homeschooling I encourage you to do two things. Trust the Lord and pray. I am not a spiritual giant, but this is what worked for me. Even though we began homeschooling in 2005, I actually never wanted to have Jennifer attend public school. Her first day of kindegarten I told the teacher, "It is ok that she is here, but I really want to have her at home." It took five long years for the Lord brought my heart's desire to fruition. There have even been times during our homeschool days where I've questioned this desire. But He has proved time and again it is the best for our family. If your husband is not on board with homeschooling, please leave a comment, I would love to pray with you.
~In gratitude for His abundant blessings,

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Sunday, July 6, 2008 - How awesome!
Posted by JenofAvonlea
Linda, I am so glad that your husband is so supportive and encouraging in your homeschooling now, even that he has such a vision for it! It is encouraging to me to just hear your testimony of praying and just see how submitting yourslef to the Lord and your husband made such a positive impact in your family. My husband is 100% on board with our homeschooling, thank the Lord, but I know there are things that I need to just trust in the Lord and pray about for my husband, and it was so encouraging to read your story.
Also, I LOVE the reviews you do for the blog alliance! Can anyone do those or do you have to have a big blog readership? I just love to read, and this would be right up my alley!
Blessings and lots of love to you, my friend!
Jen
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