We did it!
Hours of time that stretched into years of memories as we “did school” together each day. We have come to the end of this journey of daily learning side by side. Really, its been a gradual transition that I have savored; watching you become independent; watching you take ownership; watching you become the young adult whom God created you to be; watching your unique gifting and interests emerge.
What do you remember most? Was it the Zoo School science days at the local zoo? Creating a history timeline that stretched from the floor to ceiling? Stringing the planets in order along the kitchen wall? The end of school year parties where your grandparents came and smiled over your portfolios and projects?
I remember those things. I also remember the things that only a mom notices. I remember the days you persevered even though you didn’t understand your geometry. I can see in my mind the determination on your face as you practiced a difficult part in your orchestra music over and over again. I think about the year that you recognized that we could be partners in this journey of “school,” and the possibilities that opened up to us. I rejoiced with you over your successes and agonized internally when you struggled. I have laughed, cried, prayed, and surrendered repeatedly over these last twelve years.
And here we are. At the end. We did it.
Sweet girl, I love you more than you can possibly know. I have made mistakes in this homeschooling journey. There are things I intended to get to and teach you. (Where did all the days go?) There are lessons left undone. There were days when I didn’t bring my best attitude to the table. There were days when things felt very hard, and there were certainly days when real life interrupted “school.”
But, I would do it all over again. The laughing and crying. The hours spent on Ancient Egypt, diagramming sentences, and reading aloud. The field trips and music lessons, and ice skating Fridays. It was worth every ounce of my time and energy. It is the most worthwhile endeavor for which I could sacrifice. I got to be there with you as you learned, and grew, and discovered. We got to do it together. And I am so thankful.
Well done, daughter. You did it. And we did it. May you feel loved and celebrated as we meet on the commencement stage and Dad hands you your well-deserved diploma.
As you look toward your bright future, keep learning. I will be cheering you on from the sidelines now.
Mom
(Written by CHEO Board Member, Jeannine Ramer)