Oct. 3, 2008 - What I'm learning
I read another blog where the question was posed, " What one thing have you learned from homeschooling?" Interesting question, since most of the time we focus on what the kids are learning from homeschooling...not what the "teachers" are learning.
I realized years ago that this journey is as much about me as it is about my kids. I learn so much from our studies. God teaches me. My kids teach me. God has used the time I've spent homeschooling to teach me many things...to be more patient...to be more creative...to be more organized.... and to be less selfish. My kids teach me to have more fun.... to find the humor in things and to laugh more.
I am still learning these things. I am also learning to focus on the eternal. It is so easy to get caught up trying to get it all done and completely miss out on opportunities to really make a lasting difference in the world around us. To focus on getting "work" and "chores" done and miss out on serving our neighbors, snuggle times and nature walks. I am learning to live in balance.
I've learned a ton about History and have polished up my grammar skills. But, I still can't do math past grade 8!! Sad, but true! 
That's okay...I don't think there is math in heaven.
*edit* Before I posted this entry we were touched by a tragedy. The Fall Camp I referred to in last week's post was the scene of a horrific accident. A 12 year old boy named Zack was injured on the zip line while a group of 7th graders watched. My daughter was among these kids standing in line waiting for a turn.
We have prayed constantly for Zach over these last few days, but sadly, yesterday (October 8) he was taken to heaven. As I looked back over the above post, the words I typed then struck me as even more important and true. Snuggle times, laughter, worshipping God, fellowship with friends, nature walks....these really are what make life worth living.
Zach became a believer and follower of Christ last year. We watched his baptism. Last night I observed, in awe, as his parents prayed for the kids who are grieving the loss of their friend. The grace of God was so apparent in them. They know that their precious boy is in the arms of Jesus. His mom urged us parents to use our time wisely with our loved ones, because we just never know what tomorrow will bring. She admitted that the phrase, "Live every day like it's your last" always seemed corny to her, but now she feels differently.
So, take some time this week, mommas, and go for a walk with your kids , give them an extra long tuck-in, and read a good book together on the couch. The math book will still be there when you're done with the really important stuff.
