Monday, February 28, 2011

Happy 17th Birthday to My Shannon

Seventeen years ago today I gave birth to a bright eyed baby, that seemed to know all the secrets of the world. Of all my children, she was the most alert and appeared ready to take on anything that came her way. Throughout the years she has made me smile, made my heart leap for joy, challenged, encouraged, brought me to my knees before my Savior, and give me more love then I ever deserve. It has been amazing watching her grow into a confident godly woman and I am truly humbled to be a part of her life.  She is at the point in her life where literally, anything is possible for her. This fall she heads off to college to pursue a degree in art. It will be hard to see her go, but I am thrilled that she has the opportunity.

All that being said, Happy Birthday Shannon!! You are an amazing young woman and I look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for your life. I love you very much!!! :o)

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Life After Homeschooling

In the end of spring last year, I went through a time of reassessing my life.  Having been a homeschooling stay at home mom for over 20 years, I was seeing the fruits of my labor come to a close.  Two of my four 'students' had graduated, another was right around the corner, and the fourth within 4 more years.  It really took a lot of introspection as I wrestled with what to do with the rest of my life. I'm only 43, and to some young pups out there it may seem old but it really is not.  I still have a lot let in life to do, and Lord willing I'll have time to do it! ;o) 

As I thought about what the next stage of my life would be, I was drawn into the presence of God like never before.  He graciously and lovingly revealed to me part of His plan for me. The plan that I always envisioned was heading back to college to finish my degree in education.  The plan that He had for me was different.  If you follow this blog at all, you know that I am currently enrolled as a college student and Liberty University Online. My major is Christian Counseling, but I think I'm going to change it to Psychology with a minor in Christian Counseling.  

That decision led to another door opening, one that I have been praying for but did not expect to open so soon. A couple of months ago I was hired as the Client Service Director for a local Care Net facility. I volunteered there for almost 2 years, so this was a natural progression. I can honestly say that I love my job! If someone told me last spring that this is where I be, less a year later I wouldn't of believed them. God is good! He knows what He has called us to and He knows how to get us there. 

I share this only to let other homeschool mothers know, there is life after homeschooling! :o)  Your life will look different then mine, and that's okay! I'm not totally done homeschooling, but yet God has opened other avenues along with that. Yes, it is hard at times. Yes, I'm very busy. Yes, I get little sleep. The greatest thing is that I know I'm exactly where God wants me to be. It certainly is an exciting time! :o)

Sunday, February 6, 2011

College Update

Going back to college at age 43, is proving itself to be a very challenging thing.  Last semester I did pretty good, I actually made the Deans List!! :o) This semester is turning into something totally different, I highly doubt there will be any list for me. 

The classes I'm currently enrolled in are:

English 101 (I honestly should of taken English 100, even though I passed the proficiency exam.)

Math 100 (Even though this is the first Math a student can take, it is very difficult for me. I am truly finding out way M-A-T-H is a four-letter word!)

Introduction to Christian Counseling (This is the only class this semester that I am getting good grades in. I guess it's a good thing considering Counseling/Psychology is my major.)

Introduction to Sociology (I have not started this yet, but I'm hopeful that I will like it and do well in it.)

The homework this semester seems to be more then last semester and it also seems that the expectations of the professors is higher.  I will muddle through and Lord willing not fail the classes and have to do them all over again. 

Have you gone back to school? What classes have you taken? Did you find them easy or difficult? Did you have enough time to study, work, and have a semblance of a life? Please answer....this inquiring mind really wants to know! 

Saturday, February 5, 2011

To Do List

My To Do List:

*English Test

* Start working on my first essay, which is due next week.

* Read a counseling book, I have a 6 page paper due in 2 weeks.

* Wash the pile of dishes currently sitting in my sink.

* Laundry, laundry, and in case you missed it...Laundry

* Make a sign up sheet for the Winer Carnival

* Make posters for the Winter Carnival (my son is going to make this on his computer and send me a file)

* Clean the cow barn, since the weather is pretty good.

* Go get hay and shavings for the animals.