Homeschooling Updates April 2016!

It’s has been a long time since I have sat down to write a blog! I am back, and ready to update you on what is going on with our family!

First of all, my oldest son who is 9 years old, has been dealing with pain in his knees and ankles for about 3 years. We have seen so many specialists and doctors! We have also taken every test known to man. They kept coming back normal, and the doctors thought that the pains were the result of growing pains. However, after seeing my son in excruciating pain, and not being able to walk on some days, I asked to see a different specialist to get another diagnosis. Finally, we were referred to a rheumatologist, where he took more tests. We recently received some abnormal results from his x-rays, so the tests go on! The specialist is sure that he has Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, but has scheduled another MRI to be sure. She has prescribed something for pain, along physical therapy every week. We also found out that he is weaker on one side of his body, and has uneven pelvic bones causing one leg to be slightly longer than the other.

As a mother, this has been emotionally exhausting. It is difficult watching my son not be able to walk on some days, and not be able to play and run like other boys his age. It has been difficult for him as well. He has asked me why he has been dealt this card in life? I used this as an opportunity to minster to him, and in turn, I ministered to myself. I just let him know that God hasn’t given him this as a punishment, but for an opportunity to strengthen us. I showed him Nick Vujicic. If you have never heard of him, he is a man who was born without limbs. His ministry is called Life Without Limbs at www.lifewithoutlimbs.org. His story is amazing. Some of his hobbies include swimming, fishing, and painting. Nick has used his challenges to encourage others and to show that we are not limited by our circumstances. I encouraged my son that one day, he too, will have a testimony of how God has brought him through this situation. I promised him that he would be stronger for it (actually we all will be). I know that he has challenges, but I don’t want him to live a life of limitations. The most difficult (and loving) thing that I can do, is to urge him to not stop! So, he has chores, he has school, and he gets exercise. There may be days when he is not able to perform as well as usual, but I still encourage him to do as much for himself as he can. Arthritis is a challenge, but not an excuse! Our faith, along with loving friends and family has helped us cope. We are grateful! Thanks to homeschooling, we can take breaks when we need to, alter activities, and never miss school for appointments. Another reason that I love homeschooling!You can read more about Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis here: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis/basics/definition/con-20014378

We have been in our home for a year now! Since moving to a new area, I have been looking for opportunities to get my kids involved in activities. I found the answer through our local library. They love homeschoolers! They have everything from Lego Club, Art Classes, Math Club, Engineering Club, Homeschool Fitness Group, and a homeschool meet-up! My favorite activity is their Write Brite  group. The kids are writing and illustrating their very own books, and the library is going to actually bind them, making them into real books. My kids attended their first meeting where they brainstormed and developed a plan for their books. We have been staying busy, and I love it! It is great for the kids and mommy, too! If you are looking for fun, FREE ways to get your kids involved in activities, check out your local library.