I could totally see if we were the type of homeschooling family who brought school into home how this would make me crazy!  I mean renovating with 4 kids running around, and having to use our resource room (school room) as an “everything room” how would we get everything or anything done?  But were not “that”.  We are a relaxed/unschooling family, and I think the key word is family in that statement.  This experience is teaching my kids and myself a lot.  I have noticed I have been more patient with my children, probably because there is always someone else around who may or may not be watching me.  I am also yelling less, and handling “situations” that come up in a way that would be exalting to God, not like before where more often than not He was shaking His head and giving me lesson after lesson.  I hope I can keep it up after this reno is over.

My children are learning Spanish, the poor worker guys having to hear “hola!” every time they walk by, it’s quite funny actually.  And now since they have been here, which seems like forever, they are teaching them a few other Spanish phrases.  Leaving the house everyday for a bit helps to break up the day, and the kids learn “how to” act in public situations, and to talk to and entertain those around them.  We were at Wendy’s and my oldest was done eating and wanted to push our youngest around.  An older couple was sitting at another table and my 7 yo stopped and started a conversation with them and made them laugh.  How exciting is it that I can see my children bring joy to others!

Now what may not be good throughout this is the underlying stress I am feeling.   Although it doesn’t seem like it from the outside, at least that’s what my husband says, I am really stressed about not having order, or cleanliness (there is dust on EVERYTHING!).  And the idea of eating out any more is really making my stomach turn, but this too shall pass.  I have to keep looking at what is being accomplished, and how our home will be transformed into an oasis when it is complete (I feel like this might be a little of a comparison to earth and heaven) .  I really wish I know how to post pictures here, I want to show the before and after.  Maybe I’ll figure it out by the time it’s complete. (any help here would be appreciated :))  I am feeling a bit overwhelmed, and have pretty much stopped everything else in my life, so don’t take it personal if that includes you!

The goal I have for my children is to have them bring Glory to God in all they do.  May this experience make us a “light” to others, no matter how we may be feeling, or whatever circumstance were in.  Including the craziness of having our home tore up.  Just remember whatever it is you are going through is an opportunity to be molded to be more like Christ. Blessings,

Andria