The Gift of Gab

It helps to have chatty friends. Bethany, who can  be chatty, typically is quiet. A sweet friend called her today and asked her about owning a hamster. Bethany's hamster, Dusty, died about a month ago, but Bethany was eager to share anyway.

Bethany did all kinds of reading before and during her ownership of a hamster. She also saved most of the money to maintain a good life for her hamster. Bethany paid for all of her food and bedding and extra toys that made Dusty's life special.

This momma was thrilled when someone called who was interested in Bethany's learned expertise. I especially enjoyed observing Bethany so at ease in her conversation.

The one and only Andy Williams died today. I loved his voice as a child. It seemed to have a quality and an essence that I'm challenged to put into words. His Christmas shows had me spellbound. Here is his recording of "Moon River."

From the perspective of pure numbers, here's a picture of homeschooling, compliments of the HSLDA, Homeschool Legal Defense Association.
Via: DegreeSearch.org

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

One of the wonderful parts of homeschooling is the opportunity for trust to develop between child and parent. Here, they can share their frustrations and insecurities. 

I don't always have the answers, I don't know why summarizing a story is hard for one, but not for the other, but I can encourage them and say, "You know, I don't know why it seems hard, but we're going to get this. Let's keep trying! You can do it." In doing this, I teach and make every effort to reflect God's heart toward this one He created. What if they never *get it*? I truly believe it's going to be alright. The Lord will give us the wisdom we need to go another way if that's what's best. This brings His peace to both of our hearts as a result. 

It's not always been this way. I've had to learn that this is His response for our household in this hour. It could be another exhortation altogether tomorrow. As I draw closer to the Lord today, He is able to help my heart hear the words He would speak were He sitting there with us in person. This is my on the scene testimony for today.

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God, My Father.