This year we have jumped feet first into the adventure of homeschooling. Many factors influenced our decision to home school Ella, but the culmination of having a new baby brother, moving to California and journeying into a whole new church life was all the change we felt Ella Grace needed. So here we are. I must admit, it’s not easy. We kind of “honeymooned” so to speak the first few weeks, then we hit a wall. We’ve had “impatient mommy” days, “whiny Ella” days, and “needy Sam” days. Were pushing through and despite all our various emotions and needs…I think she’s learning something. Of course I know she’s learning multiplication, nouns/verbs/pronouns, American history, photosynthesis, ect. But there are some things Ella is learning that I didn’t include in my lesson plans…

• She’s learning how to be a mom. Sam provides constant distractions and interruptions; however, Ella has the privilege of watching me nurture and take care of him. She gets to take part in his care and their bond is stronger because of it.
• She’s learning that her mom is very flawed. She’s seeing sides of me that I’m not sure she’s seen before. Trying to explain math brings out my “ugliness”. She’s seeing me struggle with my sin. However, she’s also seeing me demonstrate a repentant heart. She’s learning that while my flesh is weak, my Creator is not and we can go to Him with our flaws, and He is faithful to work in our hearts.
• She’s learning to embrace the moment. One of the blessings of homeschooling is the benefit of a flexible schedule. We enjoy many cuddle breaks, tickle fests and outdoor adventures.
• Finally, she’s learning about her Lord. Our Ella is a sponge. She soaks up what she learns and asks questions. We consistently have to call Daddy to get answers to some of her questions. She’s developing a craving for His word and getting to dive into together is worth every other “not so great” moment.

I just love how we have our “plans”, and God is able to teach us more than we could ask or imagine. Of course you don’t have to be homeschooling your children to get it right.

What are you passing on to your children?