I suffer from two different illnesses. I have Crohn's Disease (a disease that affects the small intestine) and I also battle depression. A lot of my days are difficult. I am either really tired, achy or having stomach pains. My kids understand, but it is hard to get back in the groove after I take a break from teaching. I have learned to take better care of myself in order to be a better mom and teacher. I try to eat right, exercise and sleep enough. Our days go well when I get an afternoon nap. I usually lie down around 2 and the kids play quietly. I used to feel guilty about napping in the middle of the day, but it is a necessity for me. If I take care of myself, I am a better mom and teacher to my kids. Not to mention, a better wife!
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
Sometimes we do schoolwork at night and that is okay. Thankfully, we can school when it is convenient for our family. Homeschools can look different from family to family. I also think that there is no shame in asking for outside help. Maybe a relative or other homeschooling friend can take over a subject or two during a season. Co-ops, enrichment classes, athletics, etc. have been helpful to me. I know that my kids are still learning, but some of the burden is off of me. I use this time to refresh myself by reading or doing something for myself while my kids are being instructed. At times, we have had more outside activities than other times. It is wonderful to be able to change how much or how little we do from season to season.
A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17
If you have a daily battle with your health and homeschooling, I encourage you to keep at it. Don't let guilt creep into your conscience. If God has called you to keep your children home, He will equip you and your children. Pray and trust. With God, nothing is impossible.(Luke 1:37) Spend time in the Word and keep your spirit strong. If our spirit is strong, we can soldier through the tough days. Choose joy. Never give up your hope for healing--God still performs miracles.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's. Psalm 103:2-5
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