Ten years ago I typically didn’t get overly emotional about events or ending chapters in my life but having babies and losing a sister changed that. Now I am often a bundle of emotion when something ends or I have to say goodbye to someone or something.
Even happy times, like our children’s birthdays, can bring me to tears as I realize that another year has passed. It is a mixture of sadness, knowing that time is racing by, but mostly thankfulness as I reflect on the wonderful blessings that I don’t deserve but have been given anyways. It turns into this overflow of emotion and the tears well up in my eyes as I can barely contain the gratitude I feel.
Such an event happened this week as Snootz completed Kindergarten at our church’s home education enrichment program. This past school year Snootz has gone one morning per week to a class with 9 other homeschooled kindergartners and a wonderful teacher. During his classes he completed themed crafts & projects, sang songs, learned new games during gym time, was Star Student of the week, learned more about Jesus, and many other things. He also gained lots of new friends as we’ve connected with other homeschooling families. This was truly an answer to prayer!
You see, going into the year I felt a little scared and like we were the oddballs since all of Snootz’s friends were going to traditional school. I had many questions as to what the future would hold. As a homeschooler would Snootz make new friends easily? Would he feel left out? Would I make connections with other homeschooling moms? Or would I continue to feel like I’m out on an island by myself? How would the year go?
It was difficult for me even though I knew that this is what God is calling us to do right now. I have been continually praying for friendships for both myself and for our children as we are in this new season of life. And God has been so good to us.
He provided such a wonderful godly teacher for Snootz and a classroom with many other boys (this was significant because most of his cousins and other friends are girls). And for me, connections have been made with some lovely women. Additionally, I was able to participate in Bible study during Snootz’s class time and our girls were in their own class with other sweet little 3- and 4-year-olds and several awesome teachers.
As I look back at this year I am in awe of God’s working in our lives and so thankful for what He has done for us. And on the last day of class as I thanked Snootz’s teacher and then watched Snootz give her a big bear hug I could barely hold back the tears.
It’s quite embarrassing when my eyes well up and I can hardly contain my emotion but that’s just what happens when I am reminded of God’s awesomeness and how He does amazing things for us when we ask, obey and trust in Him.
What amazing things has God done in your life recently?
Really good read, Monica. I’m sorry I haven’t kept up with the posts. I thank God everyday for You and the kids.