End of the Year Reflection: Biggest Triumphs and Biggest Challenges

Okay, this is my first attempt at a meme. Yep, it’s spelled correctly! For those of you who don’t know what a meme is, it is “an idea . . . or usage that spreads from person to person within a culture” (Meriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition). In the blogging world, it’s posting a blog on a particular topic and linking to others who are posting on the same topic. So, if you want to read what others are saying about their ups and downs for this past school year, head on over to Heart of the Matter.

This past year, our greatest triumph was also our greatest challenge: high school! My oldest daughter is completing her final exams for ninth grade as I type this. She will finish with all A’s and B’s, so we are pleased. Her biggest trials were algebra 1 and biology (like her mother!). Her biggest accomplishments, aside from academics, were coming in third place in the state Awana Bible quizzing competition (and second in their art competition), getting first place in the local science fair competition, starting karate, and lots of volunteering. She’s headed overseas with my mother and a few other people for a missions project next week.

My youngest daughter’s greatest challenges this year were long division (are we seeing a theme here?) and writing essays. She started competing in gymnastics this year and made it to the state level, although she did not place there. She did very well, however, and we are proud of her for persevering.

Personally, it’s hard to think of just one challenge or one triumph. I did a slight career shift this past year, which was challenging because I was learning new things and sometimes waiting for a paycheck. Physically, I broke my foot nearly a month ago and that has been extrememly frustrating (and painful!). My greatest trimph has been getting published at Heart of the Matter! I am thrilled to see my children walking with the Lord, but I can’t take credit for that; the credit goes to God.

What were YOUR greatest challenges and greatest triumphs this past year? They can be related to homeschooling or not. Leave me a note so I can check out your blog post about it! Head on over to Heart of the Matter to connect with others, too.