I have NEVER wanted to home school.

I have prayed about it and I am thankful that we have been fortunate enough to have options. We have great public schools here in our county, we have enough means to send them to private school and I am a stay at home mom that could home school if we felt directed to go that route.

I am in love with the school Owen goes to. I feel at home there, I feel a confidence in what he learns and what he is exposed to. I am impressed over and over with the Christ centered focus that I hear from the administrators and staff. I am sure that there are some families who are sending their children to private school because of pride or prestige, but overall I feel like the other families are like minded people who want their kids in a Bible based learning environment.

The other day I walked through the halls and got a little emotional at the interest, concern, personal attention and recognition all three of my boys received from some of the staff who know them. I feel loved there and I am in no hurry to leave that.

However...

I just read this article that pulled something in my heart about homeschooling. The practical learning that my kids could receive from me and even Kris. The idea that learning to learn, applying research skills and allowing their own bent and curiosity to lead them to subjects that may only be touched on otherwise is very appealing.

I considered my own plans, not that this is about me, but I don't want to throw myself under the bus either, and how I've felt like Mary Mary Stationery is something I want to pursue with greater passion and energy once all three are in school. Hmmm. what if a home business is part of school? My stationery business is something simple, something hands on, something creative, and anyone trying to run a business is demonstrating skills that are useful and need to be taught.

I read another article about a home business and home schooling. She made it sound so doable.

So I am questioning all of it. I know God directed me last year in sending Owen to MJCA. I know that this year it has been harder to get the paperwork together, to get my heart on board. Ivan who three months ago was begging to go to school, told me this morning that pre-school at home would be his preference. He's four, I'm aware they change with the weather, but I am at ease about not sending him regardless. I think Owen would be crushed to be home schooled. He loves the classroom environment, his friends and his teachers. It works for him.

I just want to be at ease with all of it. I am not stressed right now, but I am unsure. I need to make a decision by the end of the week so that I'm in time to register the boys. That doesn't stress me either. I have been here before and I know God will direct us right on time. He's so perfect.

I want God's best for my kids and I am writing this in front of all of my dear friends who have been in this same quandary, not to ask for your opinion, though I'm happy to hear what you have experienced, but to ask for your prayers for my ability to walk in wisdom, hear God's voice and act accordingly. He has a BEST for Owen and Ivan and Aron and I simply want to plug them into it.

Love you all!

PS - Just writing this out has a funny way of easing my mind. It brings further confidence in our options as well as what we are capable of.