So, I hear you're going to homeschool!?

I've heard these words a lot in the past week or so.  Particularly yesterday when I joined my kids on a field trip to the park.  When I arrived, the kids were having a picnic lunch.  I joined my son and daughter, and we picked a spot near dd's first grade teacher.  She said, "So, I hear you're going to homeschool.  Is that true?".  I said, "Yes!  We're going to give it a try."  She spoke positively about it, and even referred to a friend of hers who might be able to give me some pointers if needed.  I appreciate that.  But, Mrs. Lesa is like that - a very sweet and upbeat person.  She has only been my dd's temporary teacher for the last 9 weeks of school, since the regular first grade teacher had to move suddenly when her husband got a job in another state.  So, Mrs. Lesa also does not have major ties to the school, since she is more-or-less a substitute and won't be returning next year either.  I say that because, that's how things work with this particular school.  It's an emotional connection for a lot of people who feel strongly about Christian education and are dedicated to this school and to making it work.  So, by withdrawing my children, it is seen by some people as turning my back on the school and on Christian education.  I guess I can see why it would appear that way, too.  But, I feel that I have to do what God is calling me to do, and I can't turn my back on that. 

Last week I was confronted by the second grade teacher, asking if my daughter would be in her class this fall.  I wanted to cry after I left because the teacher is someone I would dearly love for my daughter to have for a teacher.  My son was in her class last year, and she was wonderful.  But, as my dh said, our daughter will get to have her MOM for a teacher... and who could be better than that?  And I knew that... and I do feel that way.  I guess that I, too, have some of those emotional bonds that I'll have to face letting go of sooner or later. 

As for my son... this is where it gets a little sticky.  Everyone knows that the big move from 3rd grade to 4th grade (at the school they are in now) is a big deal.  4th grade means growing up, and it's a hard transition for a lot of kids.  I'm relieved, actually, to NOT have to go through that or put ds through that.  But, one of the 4th grade teachers this year is - my older sister.  So, that has been somewhat uncomfortable for me to approach - the fact that my son won't be returning next year to the possibility of having my sister for a teacher.  And, it has nothing to do with her, because I love her dearly and wouldn't hesitate to entrust my children to her care.  But I can imagine how it might look to others who don't know the whole story.  KWIM?  *sigh*  But, I'm thinking that my sis won't be teaching 4th grade again this fall anyway, so that will help that situation.  She hasn't really said much about how she feels about us homeschooling, which is good.  I mean, she hasn't said anything NEGATIVE... so, I'll take that as a plus. 

I guess I could go on all day long about this because it's definitely on my mind lately!  I just know, deep down in my heart, that we're doing the right thing.  I want this so much, not only for myself, but for my kids... and for our family.  I want to see them succeed in life, and I want to give them soooo much!  Not physical things, but eternal things.  I can't see a better way to do that than to have them at home with me.  Thus the title of this blog "Home For Heaven's Sake"!!!  I have much more in my plans for my children's future than just getting them through school.  I want to help them get to heaven, in any way that I can.  That is my ultimate goal.

9:55 AM - May. 23, 2006 - post comment

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you're doing a great thing by following God's call. He will richly bless your family. the first step can be hard when everyone is asking you all the questions. keep praying.

chickadee - 10:54 AM - May. 23, 2006

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You can DO IT!

:) Hang in there... and I highly suggest buying THIS BOOK:

"Educating the WholeHearted Child - A Handbook for Christian Home Education" by Clay and Sally Clarkson

I can not believe I have homeschooled for four years without it. I found it after seeing Sally at the TX convention this past May. It is the best homeschool resource I have ever found so far. It will ENCOURAGE and INSPIRE and INSTRUCT you! :) Even 4-year homeschool moms need that kind of wind under their wings now and then. Flying is tough work - and sometimes pretty scary... but there's no other feeling in the world like it!!!

Love ya, Bev! Praying your first year is a GREAT one.

sprittibee - 1:21 AM - Jul. 31, 2006

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