First Day of School, 2014

I was all set to write an encouraging post for all of us, we homeschoolers, as the new school year was getting into swing, but I couldn't do it. I found myself in need of some serious encouragement - I have been freaking out over here. My oldest child has started 9th grade (I can't quite bring myself to say "high school) out loud) and I'm starting formal school with my youngest, who might be described as obstreperous. (Isn't that a great word? It means "noisy and difficult to control. Perfect for a 7 year old boy, don't you think?) I'm not sure who makes me more nervous, the oldest or the youngest.

Is there a reason to feel intimidated by these beautiful people, whom I've been homeschooling now for quite some time? We're starting our 10th year. Surely it should all be under control by now?

Well, I don't know about under control, but God has a way of showing me that He has it handled, even if I don't.

We have been having fun, starting with our not-back-to-school breakfast at iHop, and general silliness:

We have a little rescue kitten, and it's a miracle he's even alive. He was about 3 weeks old when he was found, and he was pretty sick. He's recovered nicely and is doing so much better than we could have hoped. If you've ever been around kittens, you know how much joy he brings us. We laugh all the time watching his antics, and who wouldn't love this face?

And then, this morning as I was on my way to an appointment, God showed me some unexpected beauty. Do you like morning glories? I love them. My grandmothers grew them when I was growing up in Michigan. They grow as weeds here in NC, and they pop up everywhere. Look what I found today:

All those lovely flowers, and in the same place! It looks as though they've cross-pollinated, to have the bright pinks and purples all the way down to white flowers with tinges of color. Look where I found them:

I am not sure if that building is abandoned, but the parking lot is certainly neglected. I love it when God shows me beauty in unexpected places.

This year, as I get my children back into their studies, I know I am not really prepared, myself. I feel anxious and unsettled. However, my husband reminds me I can do this; he is my constant encourager. My girls are looking forward to what they believe will be a fantastic school year. And, if my little guy isn't exactly eager to start school and learn how to narrate, he loves to hear stories and that's what I have for him, so one way or another, we will get there. Thank you, Lord, for reminding me of Your truth, beauty and goodness so I would remember to look to You.