By guest author Yvonne Strachan

My injured back sentenced me to six months of limited mobility. After weeks of lying flat on the couch in my living room, my view became distorted and hope felt as if it was slowly fading away.

The physical pain was a fraction of my concern; quite faint, actually, when compared to the sandpaper scrubbing my heart felt as I witnessed others fold laundry, make meals, and tend to my baby. After all, as mom, wasn’t I supposed to be the person to conduct the well-orchestrated performance of homemaking and caring for my children?

Although this experience was very difficult, it allowed my heart to be scoured of bitterness, and my aspiration of becoming superwoman washed away. My newly cleaned heart allowed me to see my situation differently. Refined with humble gratitude, my eyes were opened in new ways to see the love of those surrounding me: my husband who managed his work, our home, and my care; friends and family who offered a helping hand; and my children’s willingness to tend to household maintenance while bringing toys, cuddles, and laughter to my chamber. 

Read More

By Guest Author Barbara West,

What to do if you’re burnt out on homeschooling

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28 KJV)

Ahh, rest. After a busy holiday season and launching into the start of a new year, rest seems elusive and, in some instances, unattainable. I look at my planner and there are more lessons to be taught than there are days to get them done. There is no time for rest.

Yet, Jesus invites us to come to Him if we are overburdened. He promises to refresh us if we are weary, worn out, or overworked. We need to go to Jesus anytime we feel that we are going over the edge. His presence will fill and refresh us.

Our Busyness

Rest is one thing homeschool moms need. But there is always something to be done. One more chore that requires attention. A child that needs tending. An errand that needs to be run. Homeschool moms often are task oriented and thrive on getting things done.

Rest is becoming a lost art in our modern culture. Packed within each 24-hour time span is an unsustainable number of tasks we’ve placed upon ourselves, as well as demands others place upon us. Many days there is a revolving door of schedules and commitments. It is tempting to do everything, be involved in everything, and be up on the latest homeschool trends — but never being able to rest really isn’t God’s best for us. 

Read More