Where in the world do I find myself at the moment? After homeschooling my 5 amazing kids for over 20 years I found myself in Mataranka, Northern Territory of Australia for a bit of "me" time.
Everyone needs "me" time as I call it. A bit of self-love, pampering and self-care.... physically, spiritually and mentally. Nothing worse than a burn-out!
Homeschooling is hard work, parenting is hard work, keeping a relationship is hard work, however keeping your sanity during all of this must be the hardest thing for anyone.
So I'm dedicating this blog to all parents worldwide. To grandparents worldwide too as that's what I am now. Very proud to be Nanny to 10 wonderful grandchildren.
After teaching your own children for so long, as I did, you do feel a bit lost once they all leave home. It suddenly becomes earily quiet around the place. No loads of washing, massive trays of food to cook, no need prepping the next lesson. Life suddenly becomes lonely, sad, weird, lost.
Very greatful to have grandchildren. They keep me going, however... it's not the same for me obviously. I have a need to be busy... I have that need to be able to write, prep, teach, and share with other parents (grandparents) because I believe I have something left to give and share with all you beautiful people.
On my travels just from Perth to Mataranka I'm talking to parents who are dedicated to teaching their children on the road. You wouldn't believe how many homeschooling families are on the road.... either part-time or full-time. It's amazingly wonderful to see this first hand. Very proud of you all to undertake this mission. Not an easy task!
So in a nutshell, we homeschooled our children from scratch. They never went to public or private school. Taught them ABC's, reading, writing, arithmetic. All the basics until each and every child just powered away on their own... discovering their talents.
IT specialist; Art lecturer, mum and artist; Mum and shop keeper; Homeschool mum and writer; and last but not least... our whip cracker. These are their current "walks in life." The main point is that each one has found their place in this world. Their niche!
In my other post you can read about the amazing whip cracker "Whippy"
What I'm trying to convey here is that if you are a parent you will be the most amazing person to your child. You are their world, their inspiration, their support. It's up to you to encourage them, support them, teach them. Even if your child goes to school, it's still you who is responsible for the outcome at the end.
It's not a light-hearted task. It's not easy. It's not a bed of roses so to speak. However it's the most amazing gift you can deliver as a parent. It's your strength, attitude, emotions, and personality that will mould your child into their own personality and provide that pathway into this world.
So that's "me" at the moment. Finished one stage in life and now heading into another. Who knows where it will take me. At the moment I'm on the road. Enjoying life... exploring, walking, driving, talking, observing, and blogging.
Keep up your challenge of parenting. It's never going to come back once it's gone. Do the best you can with the knowledge you have and the resources available to you. Never give up! Your children are precious.