Caroline will be a high schooler in the autumn. Can you believe that? I’m struggling with it myself. David and I have always made a point of taking the time to deliberately enjoy each stage of life with her because she is our only child. We prayed and waited a long time for her. We only get one go-around with the parenting experience. With an only, every event is the first and last time you experience something.

Our homeschooling journey has been a long and winding one. Like most homeschoolers, if I could go back and do it over I would do some things differently. A few things I would do completely differently. This thought hangs over me now as I think about homeschooling high school.

There are questions I have that I can’t find other homeschoolers talking about. There are some things you simply don’t write about regarding homeschooling because it exposes too much of your child to the world’s judgement. But when no one writes about those things, then no one can learn from the experiences of others. I’m not sure what the answer is. I understand why homeschoolers don’t write openly about certain academic struggles faced by their children beyond a certain point, but those of us with the same struggles would greatly benefit from their wisdom and experience. I’m not sure what God wants me to do with this, if anything.

Meanwhile, I pray and ask God for guidance to do what is best for a future I cannot fathom for a child who has her own unique needs and gifts. I’m embracing this season with my daughter as I try to guide her and make the most of these four years we will spend together.