Swiftly flow the years

Another year ending, a time for reflection.  The photo on the top was taken in 1997, and the one on the bottom in 2010.  Thirteen years have flown by and the kids are now (L to R) 19, 13,16 and 21.  And we have a lovely grandson who is 15 months.

Although the days at home may seem to go very slowly, the years fly by very quickly.  One day you will wake up and notice they are nearly grown!  Don’t miss the journey.

This all puts me in the mind of resolutions – fleeting things they are, soon forgotten after the holiday festivities.

Rather than resolutions, consider renewing your vision and priorities.  Remembering these principles of the heart can make 2011 simpler and smoother.

1.      I will worry less and pray more, leaning not on my own understanding or plans.

2.     I will see the connectedness of subjects and explore with my children how they fit in God’s plan for History and what role they will play in it with their gifts and talents for His glory.

3.     I will remember that I can call on lifelines for help – friends, my husband and others – to share the adventure of education.

4.     I will see the gold to be mined in the wisdom and skills of grandparents and other relatives, inviting them to participate in mentoring and teaching.

5.     I will not let my homemaking duties crush my joy, but will put systems in place to get the whole family involved in making the home run smoothly.

6.     I will remember that listening to a book on tape can be done anywhere – cuddling on the couch, riding in the car, or folding laundry.

7.     I will see the blessing in each child more, even when they get on my nerves.

8.     I will ask my husband for help and be specific, rather than complain about his lack of involvement.

9.     I will keep in mind that summer is coming when there will be time for both reflection and remediation.

10.     I will remember our vision for homeschooling – raising the next generation for Christ – and thank God daily for the privilege.