True Tales from a Homeschool Mom....

Ever felt overwhelmed, under-appreciated and so tired that you couldn't move?  If you're a homeschool mom, I bet you have.... or is it just me?

Truly when we begin homeschooling, we have pictures of snuggling on the couch with our little ones reading, gently guiding our grade-schoolers in math and having deep, meaningful conversations with our high-schoolers.  But most days it's more like, "Now serving, Number 57!" 

Seriously, I have a longer line at my desk than the DMV.

We are now in the second half of the year.  A time when many homeschool moms feel the mid-year slump.  The picture above was taken by my dearly beloved hubby during school this week.  Wasn't that sweet of him?  Notice the piles of curriculum, the math to be graded, 2 computers and my constant cup of coffee?  (15 years ago, I didn't drink coffee).  But something else struck me as I looked at this picture:  Look at what I am doing for my children.  No one else has more invested in my children than I do.  I cannot blame the teacher or the school system for my children's failures and I cannot take the credit for their successes.  As I am forced to step back from feeling like I am doing nothing for them, I am struck by the fact that I am doing EVERYTHING for them.  Most people think we are nuts for homeschooling.

Maybe we are.

But I know that what I am investing in my children now, the Lord will harvest later.  The more I am willing to pour into them, the more they will be able to pour out.  This is what Christ has called me to do and I know that He does not call the equipped but equips the called.  He is equipping me (maybe slower than I would like) one day at a time, giving me just enough grace to make it through each day.  If I didn't know Him, I am sure that I would crumble under the pressure and I know that I wouldn't even be homeschooling.  Am I scared?  Shakin' in my boots.  But I know that the results are not up to me.  My job is to be faithful in what He has called me to do and leave the results to Him.  He will fill in all the gaps in my children's education.

And yes, my dreams of cuddling, guiding and conversing are happening and are the highlights of my long days.  I am not complaining.

Truly, homeschooling is the hardest job I have ever had.  But, it is also the most rewarding.  I am truly blessed.  And I'm sure I'm not the only one.