Celebration of a Milestone

Though it happened in reality two weeks ago, tonight we celebrated a milestone.  Adriana completed 8th grade and we had a surprise dinner celebration for her.  Where in the world did the time go?  I'm still stunned to know that I now have a high schooler at home!  (It's also tough on this mom's heart to have her baby starting Kindergarten at the same time....where are the Kleenex?). 

When we first started this journey of homeschooling, we had no idea what the future would hold for us.  At the time, we felt we had no choice based on where we were living and the pathetic academic standards.  At that point it was truly more about academics than religious freedom.  Adriana was reading WELL at age 4 and was tested at an 8th grade reading level during the second semester of Kindergarten.  The school district we were in when we made the decision to pursue home education had an 80% failure rate of 5th graders passing basic skills test.  There was just no way we could stand the thought of putting a child with an insatiable desire to learn and maturity well beyond her years in a regular school and there was absolutely no room in the budget for other avenues. 

Fast forward a few years and our reasons  have changed, but our commitment has not wavered.  I don't necessarily believe our "choice" is the right path for everyone, but if God calls you to it...HE WILL MAKE A WAY!  We are prime examples of that!  He has provided for us EVERY step of the way.  Most specifically, being right where we are at this time I feel was ordained by God to allow us to grow together as a family in regards to spiritual growth and academic opportunities.  The move here to C-U was completely a step out in faith and has had some serious fails and bobbles along the way, but it has been TREMENDOUS for our family.  The relationships we've formed have made our commitment to raising a "different" family possible.  Thank you to each of you that inspire us and lift us up EVERY day.  Thank you to a city that allows us so many different, limitless possibilities of enrichment, community, and growth!

Adriana is a special young lady that we learn from daily.  Her heart is huge and her love for Christ is unparalleled.  The growth this year academically has been amazing.  I so look forward to the coming school year as we together jump in with both feet in faith.  CANNONBALL (FCC'rs understand the reference!).  Though I admit to being a nervous wreck about choosing which direction we go, I have no doubt that God will lead us and He will provide.  I also can not wait to see what He has in store for her in the coming year.  It seems like she has opportunities left and right to grow in ALL areas and I can't wait to see it happen.  I feel blessed to have been able to take this journey with her and I am blessed to have my daughter in my life.  Though I don't believe a parent should be a "friend" first....I'm still glad that she is a friend.  I'm glad that the love of Christ flows through her and shines!