What it's all about

Some days I wonder, what am I thinking? What am I doing staying at home with two boys, one of whom I could have put in school this year?  Is it really worth the sacrifice?  the drama?  the constant defense of what I do to people who don't understand?  Are they missing out on something by being always here with me?

And then there's this.  There is always a moment, a gesture, a touch that makes me remember.  We are who we are because of this life we live.  I'm not just the cleaning lady/laundress/nurse/cook.  I am the creator of memories, the moulder of personalities, the author of happiness in our home.  I give my life to these boys so that they will know what they're worth to me.  I show love every way I know how, and in return I see them do the same for each other.

Comments

[DeeDee]

Oh Jessica,
I remember those feelings well... especially when the school bus turned around in the parking lot in front of our house...and I too would come back and reflect on what was the reality - and what a high calling it was. And I will tell you on this side of 12 years of it - I thank God for allowing me to teach my kids. I would not trade it for all the free time in the world. (By the way, I have all the free time in the world now.... :) )
I love you gal and I am praying for you!
~Mrs. DeeDee

[Jessica Keith]

Thanks, Ms. DeeDee, that means a lot. I'm not sure I'll make it 12 years, but as long as we're doing this, your prayers mean the world!

[Shelley]

Jessica,
This past Friday on my "off" day, I wanted so badly to go the park with you and catch up while our boys played together. What a sweet, sweet time that will always be precious. Count it all joy, even in the trying times, and know that what you're doing is God's best for your family!

[Joy]

So precious, Jess. Thank you for sharing...

[Chris in Oxford]

I think you've got a couple of lucky boys. It's great that you can take the time to be with them!

[Expat Mom]

Jessie, you are doing SUCH a great job with your boys. When I read about the activities and fossil hunts you do with them, I wish I could be more like you.

Also, as a homeschooled kid, I can tell you that what you are doing is worth it. Your boys will thank you down the road. :D Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing that sweet photo.

[Kailani]

And one day they will thank you for it!

[Melanie]

All too soon they'll be grown up and you'll have all the free time in the world. And the only thing you'll want is to have your little boys back. So, no doubt about it- you're making the right choice.

[foolery]

Jessie, no matter which side of the fence you're on, you will ALWAYS have doubts about your choices sometimes. I do -- I think we all do. But your results are so good that I think your doubts are just chaff in the wind.

When I owned my store I used to be able to pick out the kids who were home-schooled. I knew within 30 seconds of them walking through the door. I tested my theory and I was rarely wrong. They all had so much confidence, poise, manners, and easily looked me in the eye and spoke up loudly. You're making a great sacrifice but an even greater investment. Way to go!

Laurie

[Jessica Keith]

Thanks, Laurie. I'm not sure what we'll do next year, but I shudder to think of Grayson in a classroom setting this year. He would have been to see the principal everyday! The poor boy got his mom's imagination & his dad's motor-mouth! Not a good combination!