Friday's Top 10 List...

Though I feel a little like David Letterman (doesn't he do those top 10 lists?) doing a Friday's Top 10 List, I'm loving the opportunity to focus on having JOY even in those areas that seem to be burdensome or difficult.

You see, that's where JOY far exceeds mere happiness! JOY is a fruit of the Spirit...happiness is simply an emotional feeling that is based on the moment or the circumstances. JOY is available to every person who has accepted Christ and has the Holy Spirit living in them...isn't that awesome! So in honor of JOY...

Top 10 reasons I have joy in homeschooling my children:
10.Seeing Anli progress at her own pace without pressure
9. Having time to focus on not just academics...but real life experience learning
8. The dress code is a bit more relaxed...PJ's are sometimes accepted (but not often).
7. Parent/Teacher conferences are a breeze!
6. Morningstar Academy...to the rescue!!!
7. Seeing them both learn is amazing.
6. School hours are 9-1...very nice!
5. Spending time with the two grooviest girls on the planet!
4. It made me get over my own prejudice about homeschooling families.
3. Our home is such a peaceful place.
2. Enjoying time with friends...without the stress of going home to do homework!
1. It's what God has called me to do...and He give the JOY and happiness in the middle of it!

Well, think about something in your life today that is sometimes a struggle...or something that others might think is a huge burden. Take a few minutes to make your very own Top 10 List...of the blessing it has been in your life. Remember, for those that are in the family of God...

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28