It's a big week!

It's the start of two new years this week. AJ turned one on December 29th, and Zee turns six tomorrow. SIX. Oh. My. Word.

I guess I should update on our life right now. We are doing well. Life is a constant adjustment because it's so fluid, always moving. I think it's hard for this old stick-in-the-mud to accept change. But I'm trying here!



We have made the plunge and started homeschooling this year. I was very convicted to homeschool my children...when they were babies. As the time for schooling approached, my resolve slowly dissolved until I was a quivering mess who didn't know what she wanted to do. Fortunately, I am married to a strong man with strong convictions, and he carried me through this process.

My biggest concern is that I am not a teacher. I'm not talking about teaching certificate, experience, etc. I'm talking about...my gift is not teaching. I don't do it well. There were other concerns, especially because Zee isa miniature me, and I know she would excel in a school setting. It was hard for me to give up all of the school milestones. First day of school. All the art projects coming home with her name and love written all over them. Seeing her grow and make friends.

But the truth is: I actually enjoy homeschooling. I do! This experience has brought a whole new level to our family. We are not only working on academics, but we are dealing with relationships too. Watching my girls grow and learn and play together is amazing. It makes my heart swell with pride and happiness. I feel much closer to my girls and much more active in their lives. Instead of constantly doing things in spite of my girls (hello, cleaning!), I am now doing something with them.

I have almost given up a few times. It's been rough in some senses, I won't lie. Getting on a schedule has been hard. Coming back from breaks is another area where we need to work. But in the end...we have been having fun. And my convictions are growing again.

Anyway...one last thing.

Happy birthday to these sweetlings. They have filled me with so much joy, happiness, and laughter these past years.





See what I mean? This is the pure joy that I get to live with! I wish I could bottle it.