Change

Change. I don't like it. However, it seems that's what keeps me going on this roller coaster called life.

Some of our dear friends just moved out of state.

We found out about 2 weeks before the move, that they would be relocating. The news was certainly a shock, that was also mixed with "selfish sadness" as I like to call it. I'm sad because they have had such an impact on our lives and I am sad for myself and my family that we will be losing the physical closeness of this part of our family. They have been there for us for the past 4 and half years through some pretty rough spots....cancer, kids, surgeries, marriage problems, family struggles, and much more. They have also been here for some really fun times too!

God has a plan. His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. Though sad, I've been able to reflect back on just how much I've seen God's fingerprint on all they have brought to our lives. They have changed my life for the better. I've had to go through (and am still going through) some pretty difficult transformations with their help, love, and support. It's amazing to me to see just how awesome His plan has been and to be forever grateful for the time we've had together these past 4 1/2 years.

I've realized that change is inevitable. Nothing stays the same. It can be a catalyst to grow. It gets me out of my comfort zone and forces me to rely solely on God and trust in Him. I may not like the journey sometimes, but I can hold on tight, trust in Him, and enjoy the ride!

The Heart of the Matter

I sat down with a new friend today. We quickly learned we had much in common and many common friendships throughout the community. It's such a small world! Well, I suppose when you live in a small community, it's bound to happen.

As we chatted, the subject turned to homeschooling and how I enjoy it. She asked how I did it all; meaning how I educate them and run the house and a home business. I pondered for a second, and then said to her:

"If I don't have my child's heart, I won't have their mind. I can't teach them anything academic if I their character is lacking and if they don't obey. They won't obey if their attitude is not right. For example, if I get them to obey me out of fear of punishment, but their attitude is rotten inside, then I've just created an angry, resentful child who will keep their emotions bottled up. So getting them to just change behavior is not enough. I'm looking for them to change their heart (their attitude). If Jack Henry hits Gabriel, it's not enough to get him to stop hitting. I have to talk to him to understand WHY he's hitting him and the emotions and feelings that led him to do the behavior. Then he can work on the core character that led him to his actions. Once we can establish the character, which is a constant process, we can then move on to academics. Academics at this point are secondary and a natural progression to the character training we've been doing for years."

This important piece I have learned in various arenas, including messages as church, speakers at homeschooling conferences, the Bible, and other great books and resources.

For more information visit:

www.voddiebaucham.org
Listen to his talk on "Centrality of the Home"

www.doorposts.com
Good information on Character building for our children

There is so much to share with you! This is my first post on my NEW blog. I hope you find this informative and fun.

My first post will be a little background about me if you are not familiar with me and my stories.

Someone once told me that I am "living in a soap opera world". That was 17 years ago. If foreshadowing was ever so true, then that comment and the events that have transpired since then, prove it.

Just a few bullet points to highlight my life and the roller coaster I've been on:

• I'll be married 10 years next month.
• I have 3 kids.
• I have one stepchild.
• I've had a rare form of breast cancer at the age of 26.
• I've had a lot of health problems which has inspired me to educate others about cancer, nutrition and breastfeeding.
  
• I am not exempt from the trials and tribulations of marriage.
• In the midst of kids and cancer, I found God.
• I home educate my 3 kids and support and inspire others who want to do the same.

So what does disciple mean?

The textbook definition is:

dis·ci·ple (d-spl)

n.

1.

a. One who embraces and assists in spreading the teachings of another.

b. An active adherent, as of a movement or philosophy.

2. often Disciple One of the original followers of Jesus.

3. Disciple A member of the Disciples of Christ.

My goal is to help teach others from my life experiences and have fun doing it!

So come back, bring a cup of tea and enjoy!