I had planned to share about the seeds that we planted last week as a science project, but, after reflecting on our day, I found that there was something else that I needed to post about today. (And, if you’re interested in hearing about our seeds — don’t worry, I’m sure I’ll get back to them later.)
We sit now at 156 days of school done. This means that, according to our state’s requirements, we have 24 days left to go. I suspect that I am not alone in feeling a bit antsy at this point. I know that we will continue to work on school a bit throughout the summer, but I’m just anxious for that 180 mark.
As I sat down to write though, my mind drifted to our day.
I remembered as we talked about martyrs, and Jack casually added not only the name of the only disciple who was not martyred, but also added in the name of the first pope. (Which also involved a hilarious conversation of Jack declaring, “Jesus said he would build a church on top of Peter.” When questioned, Jack added, “No, I don’t mean like on top of his body, that would hurt. Ouch!”)
And, then as we continued to do some Religion work, Noah (my dear, sweet nine year old with high functioning Autism) talked, in detail, about the Parable of the Good Shepherd and what it meant. “We’re Jesus’ sheep!” he declared with excitement.
Later in the day, while we left the eye doctor, Noah held the door open for all of us, and also the older woman who walked out behind us. When she said, “Thank you,” he replied with a big smile, “Oh! You’re very welcome!” As we walked away, she smiled at me and said, “You have quite a young gentlemen!”
As I let my mind wander over these, and the many other experiences of our day today, I gasped. I had to blink hard against the burning in my eyes, as they watered, waiting for tears. I was reminded that this homeschooling business — it’s not about 180 instructional days.
Sure, I may be in the business of teaching multiplication tables, homonyms, and cursive writing, and they are all vital. But, more vital is that I’m in the business of raising good and Godly children.
And, it turns out, they are now in the business of raising a good and Godly mother.
Angie can be found writing about faith, family, and household management at Many Little Blessings.
This post has been submitted to I Am Blissfully Domestic and Talk About Tuesday.
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I love this post. We also are required to have 180 days on record. But schooling goes far beyond that. In fact, if 180 days was all I put in, I would fail in teaching my children! There are life’s lessons to be learned every day. I’m looking forward to this summer to continue our schooling, but in different ways :)
Thank you for this – thanks for diverging from your intended path to write what was on your heart. God used it for me today.
You are so right! I just don’t know how I would teach my children the little, important things like holding a door for someone if my children weren’t with me all day long, day in and day out. It takes quantity time to learn values!
AMEN!! What a great post!
Thanks for sharing your heart.
I saw your link on Blissfully Domestic, and I’m glad I stopped by your blog. I have a 13 month old, but even now, I’m thinking of homeschooling her. I hope she’s well mannered and says fun things like your boys.
Great post Angie!
It’s integral to really focus on what is important! I plan to post a link to this article this weekend as I truly appreciated it. :0)