The Joy of Homeschooling

I know it's been a while since I last posted. Karsten and I are enjoying 1st grade. I thank God for the wonderful privilege of being able to homeschool. I want Karsten (and Kylie) to be grounded in their faith and one of the advantages of homeschooling is that we can talk about Jesus all throughout our school day. I desire them to obtain godly characteristics and virtues. I realize that everyone has his or her own opinion of homeschooling, and just with public and private schools, there are pros and cons. However, Brad and I believe we are doing what the Lord wants us to do. Plus, we ask Karsten and he says he likes being homeschooled. He is not socially deprived. We are involved in a homeschool association where we get together with other moms and children to go on field trips. Karsten gets to attend Valentine, Christmas, and other holiday parties. He plays baseball, soccer, and soon will be playing basketball. And, most importantly, we spend much time at church and have many activities there for the children. I know of at least ten families at our church who homeschool.

It's amazing to know that there are over 2 million children homeschooled in the United States. We need to remember to pray that our homeschooling rights will not be taken away from us. The government doesn't think that parents are capable of teaching their children. The government wants to decide what is best for our children. We know that God's Word says different.

Changing the subject, I wanted to give you an update on our adoption. The CCAA has completed referrals through 2/9/06. It is exciting to see that the months are getting closer to ours' (7/14/06) =). Please keep praying!

In closing, I wanted to ask everyone to remember Brian and Heather Laird in your prayers. On September 3rd their infant daughter, Ella Joy, was born into the arms of Jesus. Having been down that dark road over 4 years ago, I know they have some tough days ahead. It's something that never goes away and life is never the same. Please pray that God's loving presence will be revealed to them, that they will grow in their faith and draw closer to God. Satan loves to attack during these times. Pray that God's loving strength and grace will sustain them and that they will have comfort and peace from the Comforter and Prince of Peace. Also, pray for their two young sons who I know will have many questions down the road. I know they covet your prayers!

Each life is valuable to God, and life begins at conception. So for Ella and Kyler, I want to end on a very special verse to me.

Psalm 116:15
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."