Embracing a New Chapter: A Grateful Reflection on 13 Years of Homeschooling and a New Journey into Traditional School

As we reflect on the past 13 years, our hearts swell with gratitude and joy for the incredible journey we've had homeschooling our children, an experience that has enriched our lives beyond measure. The path we've taken has been rich with lessons, growth, and cherished memories. Now, as a new chapter unfolds, we find ourselves standing at the threshold of a brand new adventure, one that has us feeling both nostalgic and excited. As we embark on this journey, we are reminded of the countless blessings that have guided us thus far.

Looking back, the decision to homeschool our children was one that was made with love and intentionality. Having just adopted our oldest children a few months prior, it allowed us time to really get to know them and to cultivate a loving environment that was tailored to each child's unique strengths, interests, and needs, while being rooted in our love for Christ.

Homeschooling our children has been a privilege we don't take for granted. Over the years, we've witnessed firsthand the immense joy of watching our children's curiosity flourish, their minds expand, and their characters develop in an environment tailored to their individual needs. We've had the flexibility to delve deep into subjects that captured their interests, and the freedom to know when our focus needed to be on bigger things. Homeschooling became an integral part of our family's identity. We grew together, learned together, and overcame many challenges together.

As our children have grown, so too have their needs evolved. We've sensed a new season approaching, a shift that we believe is part of God's plan for our family. This shift has led us to the decision to transition from homeschooling to traditional schooling, a choice we approach with a mix of excitement, gratitude, and a whole lot of prayer. Just as we cherished the years of homeschooling, we are eager to embrace this new opportunity.

Our homeschooling journey was not solely about academics; it was a deeply intertwined holistic approach to our children’s wellbeing. Every lesson, every exploration, and every moment of growth was an opportunity to instill values rooted in compassion, empathy, and a strong moral compass. We saw our children's character develop as they learned not only from textbooks but also from the stories of faith, perseverance, and hope found within the scriptures. It was important to us that our children develop a sense of purpose, character, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.

Sending our children to school will offer them fresh experiences, unique challenges, and a chance to interact with an exciting new community of peers. We're excited about the prospect of skilled educators sharing their knowledge and insights, providing our children with a well-rounded education that extends beyond our home. This decision has been made in prayerful consideration, with a strong belief that God's guidance is leading our path forward.

As the new school year approaches, a sense of excitement and anticipation fills our home. Our children's faces light up with joy as they talk about stepping into a traditional school setting for the first time. This transition is both bittersweet and exhilarating, marking a new chapter in their lives.

As we embark on this new adventure, we humbly ask for your prayers and well wishes. We pray that our children's first year in school is blessed with growth, friendship, and meaningful experiences. May they continue to shine as lights to the world, spreading the love of Jesus wherever they go. ❤️

Jill MichelComment