And Here We Go...

Some homeschool encouragement as we hit the ground running

Day one of the 2023/24 season is about to get under way here. Adventures are planned. Books are gathered. Art supplies are at the ready. I’ve got a general road map charted, and after more than two decades, I know these things to be true about any new school year:

1. Expect the unexpected, but don’t forget who’s in charge. Remember 2020? That picture above was taken in the midst of those squirrely, surreal days when the wheels of everyone’s plans had fallen off. But guess who wasn’t surprised at the events of that year? Yep— God. Now, most years aren’t going to be nearly as dramatic as all that. But whether it’s a new baby, a sudden cross country move, or an ailing grandparent that upends your school year, God’s in the details.

2. There will be both good and bad— sometimes on the very same day. Remember when God told us that the heart is deceitful? That’s because we’re easily swayed by our circumstances. And our circumstances are subject to change at warp speed. One morning you may be simply swept away by the beauty that is homeschooling, reveling in your kids cuddling together whilst you read aloud. You might just vow to yourself that you’ll never consider putting these precious souls on a bus. But that afternoon, when your son melts down over math and cries because you’re so mean, well… suddenly you might just find yourself scrolling your phone to find out which schools you’re zoned for. All of this is normal.

3. There’s an antidote to homeschool burnout. You can keep pushing past the red flags alerting you that your cup is running low on patience and joy, but you do so at your own risk. Sprinkle in lifegiving Scripture, a heavy dose of reflection on why you’re doing what you’re doing, and rest. Take a game day. Celebrate a silly “holiday.” Schedule play dates. Whatever it takes to keep you engaged and grateful for this life… do it.

Whether you are already back to homeschool, are starting today , or won’t be back at it for weeks, know that I’m praying for you. This work with which we have been entrusted isn’t just practical. It’s spiritual. Treat it as such, and trust me… you will persevere.

In Christ,

Heather