As I sat at my desk, my oldest daughter surprised me with a beautiful and delicious bowl of oatmeal. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think back to all the breakfasts I’d made for her and her siblings. Memories of being surrounded by four little ones—always—24/7 came rushing back. This moment felt like a precious "harvest," a reminder of the rewards of motherhood.
The holiday season, with its joy and bustle, reminds me so much of those years. There’s an extra layer of chaos, yes, but also countless opportunities to create moments that will stay with your children for a lifetime. The laughter during cookie baking, the twinkling lights you hang together, and even the moments of frustration as you balance it all—these are seeds you are planting.
It teaches us to embrace both the chaos and the joy. Decorating cookies, reading Christmas stories, and navigating sibling squabbles—all of these are part of the harvest.
Yet, the truth remains: we won’t always see all the results of our efforts as quickly as we’d like. Motherhood is hard and wonderful, especially when it feels like no one notices all the love and effort you pour in. But believe me, mama, your hard work matters, especially during these festive yet demanding days.
As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, "Do not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time you will reap a harvest because you did not give up."
Looking back, there were so many times when I wondered if I was doing enough—if my kids would remember the messy Christmas crafts, the late-night talks, or the traditions we created together. And now, as I watch my grown children create their own family traditions, I see that they remember far more than I thought.
When your teen surprises you with a thoughtful gesture, when your toddler gives you an unexpected hug, or when your family sits together, sharing laughter over a warm meal—you are witnessing the beautiful fruits of your love and dedication.
Homeschooling during those years added another layer, as I taught my children while also learning from them. Through it all, they taught me to slow down, treasure the little things, and see the love of God in every moment.
Homeschooling moms like us have the unique blessing (and challenge) of being with our children day in and day out. It’s a time of tremendous responsibility but also incredible reward. Our children teach us just as much as we teach them—lessons about patience, love, and taking joy in the little things.
If you’re in the thick of it, mama, I want to encourage you:
The holiday season is full of opportunities to shape your children and create a legacy they will carry forward. Yes, it’s exhausting. Yes, there are moments when you might feel like giving up. But don’t lose heart! Those traditions, lessons, and memories you’re creating will become the “harvest” you see down the road.
Now, with all four of my children grown and married, and eight grandchildren to cuddle, love and spoil, I often sit in a quiet house and long for those crazy, loud, blessed years. I’d give anything to relive a Christmas morning with little ones jumping on my bed or to hear their squeals of excitement as they experience much of the season for the first time. The moments are fleeting, but the love lasts forever.
So this season, what little or big "harvests" are you seeing in your journey? Maybe it’s in the way your teen offers to help with the holiday decorations, the quiet thank-you you hear from your middle schooler, or the joy of baking with your younger ones. Take a moment to notice, breathe, and be grateful.
Enjoying the Journey,
Michelle
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