Thoughtful Thursday

This week's turned out to be quite an interesting one, with a whole lot of extra trials we didn't enjoy working through.  But still, we grow stronger through such dealings and closer as a family. 

I've had quite a few thoughts of what I could write as a reflection on the week, but through it all shone a lovely conversation a fellow blogger and I have been having 'behind the scenes' via emails.  We seem to share a lot of similar thoughts which motivate us to decide how we want to enrich our children's lives.  Is homeschooling really the best choice?  What finally helped me make that decision?  How do I ensure my children aren't missing out academically, creatively and socially?

One thing that strengthens my decision to homeschool is that I can be responsible for how our time is spent, and the quality of relationships we can make individually and as a family.  I can be 'me' and my children can be themselves.  If they get through their book work in 2 hrs, they can explore and create for the rest of the day to hearts content. We can socialise with those who nourish and uplift us, and choose to remove ourselves from those who deflate or defile.  If we find we're struggling, we can slow down because it's our own agenda.  The lesson of life must be learnt, and dealings with offenses to try and heal relationships can take priority.

Julie Bogart has written a very timely post on her blog, which has encouraged me greatly through this week's trials.  It's been reaffirming that, yes, we are on the same team as a family and we should always be rejoicing that we have this.  You can read Julie's article here: Keeping the Home in Homeschool.  I hope she encourages you, and all who are overcoming their own trials recently are winning the battle and being strengthened within your own house too.