The Duet Podcast

fond farewell Feb 19, 2021

A final letter.

everyday moments | interview with jessica poe Nov 23, 2020

As homeschool moms...it is easy to get bogged down in the temporal side of our daily lives. We are buried in the homemaking chores of meals, laundry, and soccer games, in addition to language arts lessons, math problems, and sentence diagramming. But, the life of our souls, our home, and our school is made of more than just the temporal. It is composed of spiritual substance, too. How do we not only see, but embrace the spiritual side of ordinary life? How can we find purpose and deep, spiritual meaning in the seemingly menial tasks of our day to day? Author, and homeschool mama, Jessica Poe shares her insights, her thoughts, and her book, Everyday MOMents: Discovering Christ in the Details of Motherhood in a conversation that attempts to answer some of these pivotal questions. This episode will leave you looking for the moments in your Mom Life where the Savior resides, with the beautiful invitation to join Jessica in her MOMent mindset, “In the trivial trial...I look for treasure.”

@jessica_poepoe

@ahomeoflearning

@nativitiesathome

https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-MOMents-Discovering-Details-Motherhood-ebook/dp/B01BO8K8K8

https://deseretbook.com/p/everyday-moments-discovering-christ-in-the-details-of-motherhood-ppr?variant_id=132323-paperback

http://jessica-poe.com/

navigating special needs | interview with erin mcwilliams Nov 02, 2020

How can mothers of faith with special needs children nurture growth in their homeschools? How can they apply the message of the restored gospel and invite the savior into their personal story? How can the atonement help and heal both them and their children along our way? Today, Erin McWilliams and I will discuss the heartache paired with the balm of Gilead our Savior offers as we walk our children home to Him.

tasting the fruit | interview with adelynn eisenach Oct 26, 2020

It takes trust in Christ, and His direction, to follow this homeschool path composed predominantly of your faith in God and His plan for you. You know intellectually that an education centered on Christ and His Gospel is a valuable gift to give a child of God; still you wonder, will my child turn out alright, will they launch into life as the person they are meant to be, will they be happy and look back fondly at their formative years?

It is impossible to know the end from the beginning, but it is possible to know our Savior and trust in His plan for us and our family. To help you see a little bit ahead I have invited Adelynn Eisenach, the daughter of a friend of mine, Ali Cannon Eisenach, Editor of The Juvenile Instructor, who you can hear in episode #24. She is the woman behind The Millennial Instructor and author of A Meeting with the Principal. Her daughter Addy has recently graduated from their homeschool and is here to answer a few questions and share her story from the perspective of having “crossed over,” and begun a life of her own with the foundation of her Gospel centered home education. Addy has experienced the fruit of a homeschool education centered on Christ and she has graciously agreed to share that with us today.

the mantra that saves my homeschool Sep 21, 2020

As we are all getting back to school I have been thinking a lot about structure, and the processes we establish in our homes as we begin a new year. I have learned that homeschooling is the art of implementing and perfecting processes. This is what I find myself doing most often; putting a routine or a habit in place and then tweaking it each time we return to it. The task I perform most frequently while teaching in my home is refining. I am also constantly guiding my children in this process of progress. So, today’s letter is about learning to trust God in our processes. To be still and know. It’s about showing up today, experiencing failure, and having the courage to show up tomorrow and try again. It’s about refinement in the process and giving our minds permission to grow. It’s about believing that because of Christ we can define success as moving forward and doing it better next time.

If you are looking for good resources to know more about growth mindset and grit, I recommend the books:

Grit - by Angela Duckworth & Mindset - by Carol Dweck

how i knew homeschool was right for our family Sep 14, 2020

But, Meg, how did you know that homeschool was right for your family? I have been hearing this question a lot lately, and I want to take the time to really articulate my thoughts and present them to you formally here. This is a really hot topic right now and a question on the heart of a lot of Latter-day Saint mothers. I think the answer to this question is really not as complex as we tend to make it, and I hope my general response doesn’t sound cliche. I think when sisters ask me this they are hoping that I will provide them a list of pros and cons, allowing them to just check boxes and see if they somehow fit the mold or not. The reality is, that there is no homeschool mold. In fact, homeschool is typically for those who want absolutely nothing to do with a mold.

In today's episode I share the process I went through, the things I have learned since crossing over, and the wonderful things I believe about mothers of Zion in these Latter Days.

homeschool conversion stories | interview with whitney teuscher Aug 31, 2020

Fall is here, school is starting, and if you are a mother in Zion there is a good chance you are wondering what homeschooling is all about, are curious if this path could be right for you, or are trying it out for the first time. Whether you are a homeschool newbie or a seasoned home educator, hearing the stories of how others arrived at this massive lifestyle decision can remind you of your own story, and motivate you to get going, or keep going, full speed ahead.

This is why we have spent the last few episodes, meeting some Latter-day Saint mamas and hearing their stories. “Why.” Why did they, and do they, take the leap of faith every day, year after year. What brought them, and more importantly, what keeps them on this journey with Christ, in the trenches with their children, doing the homeschool dance.

Today, we are continuing the discussion of the homeschool decision from a Latter-day Saint perspective with one of my favorite people, Whitney Teuscher.

homeschool conversion stories | interview with cassie shepherd Aug 24, 2020

Fall is almost here, School is about to begin, and if you are a mother of Zion there is a good chance you are at least wondering what homeschooling is all about, and are curious if this path could be right for you. Whether you are a homeschool newbie or a seasoned mama, hearing the stories of how others arrived at this massive lifestyle decision can remind you of your own story, and motivate you to get going, or keep going, full speed ahead.

Join me, as Cassie Shepherd from Home Centered Learning shares her conversion to homeschooling.

www.homecenteredlearning.com

https://homecenteredlearning.com/entrywaysofchrist

https://www.instagram.com/homecenteredlearning/

homeschool conversion stories | interview with shannon reid Aug 17, 2020

Fall is almost here, School is about to begin, and if you are a mother of Zion there is a good chance you are at least wondering what homeschooling is all about, and are curious if this path could be right for you. Whether you are a homeschool newbie or a seasoned mama, hearing the stories of how others arrived at this massive lifestyle decision can remind you of your own story, and motivate you to get going, or keep going, full speed ahead.

Join me, and my guest, Shannon Reid as we discuss her homeschool conversion.

the WHY of homeschool for mothers in zion | interview with jessica smith Jul 13, 2020

Today we are speaking to the mothers of Zion who are standing on the precipice of school this fall wondering what to do. Many public school mom’s are evaluating the landscape of their children spending their school day in a public institution inundated by health protocols. They are pondering the potential of an education stripped of its extracurriculars and entertaining the possibility that even when school does return, another surge in COVID cases could find them emergency homeschooling once more.

I have heard from friends expressing concerns that they don’t want to be caught off guard, or be left unprepared in the event that emergency homeschooling should happen again. I have had friends express that online Zoom classes, or other screen learning solutions have either not worked or are just not desirable due to the absence of the in person teaching and learning experience. I have had an increasing interest in my sisters asking me what I do, and how I do it.

In response to that, I have invited my friend, Jessica Smith from Simple Wonders back to the podcast to discuss a recent article that she wrote entitled; HOME-CENTERED EDUCATION. While I have personally posted past episodes, YouTube videos, and content on both my website and Instagram that outline much of what I do and how I do it. The values, methods, and ideas presented here in many ways define my WHY. And to my sisters struggling right now, to you who are researching, praying, counselling, and considering; after more than a decade of homeschooling; I can with confidence assure you that you will easily discover your own what and how if you are inspired to move forward on the homeschool path, but it is the WHY that is most important. It is the WHY you might not see when you are coming at this homeschool option backwards. Any faith based, pre-COVID, homeschooling mother was rarely coerced by an outside situation to consider homeschooling as an option as a last resort. Most of us began with a powerful and motivating WHY that brought us to this lifestyle. Every families’s WHY is personal and powerful. It is the WHY that will motivate you and help you persist on hard days. It is the WHY that has been lost in our culture, and it is the WHY I want to be sure you see clearly now.

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As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-Day Saints, we believe that God has ordained the educational decisions in a family as the right and duty of the parents. Parents are accountable to Him for this mandate. Children are spirit sons and daughters of God and are an heritage to the Lord. It is to God that we will answer to for the training and teaching of our children. As Americans we acknowledge that it is not the government's job to educate children. It is their responsibility to protect parents ability to do so. And while we all need to be cognizant of homeschooling laws in our area and obey them, the job to determine the process and provide the education of each child is ours. Education decisions should be taken seriously, approached prayerfully, and every option should be scrutinized. In the event that any educational program offered to the public does not settle with our hearts we can and should strongly pursue something different.

Only parents can determine what that something different should be, but if you think your different might be homeschool, Jessica’s words will provide you with a lot of faith based evidence, history, and reasoning for considering this course of action. Homeschooling will not be easy, but it will be worth it. We know that through Christ all things are possible. The homeschool path is the one less taken, but it is one where beautiful flowers grow and thrive. In this difficult day of uncertainty and evaluation, as you take inventory of your household and the way forward in educating your children, I hope you will choose to make Christ the center of your education equation. I have learned that He is the sum of all things in life.

I hope this episode empowers you to know that what you ultimately decide will be what is needed for you, your children, and your unique situation. It will be your choice, your great responsibility, and your power. It will be the beautiful fruit of the liberties and freedoms many of us enjoy in the United States. The freedom to choose and obey the voice of your own conscience is the way God intended for ALL of His children to live. If something you hear today in my conversation with Jessica resonates, or rings true, and you want to learn more I invite you to please read her full article below, and you can reach both of us on Instagram or through email if you have additional questions.

To any pre-COVID homeschoolers I encourage you to use this episode as a tool for addressing the questions of other public school mothers who might likewise be approaching you.

If you do choose to homeschool, as always, it is my hope that you will homeschool with Christ.

https://simplewonders.org/introduction-to-education/

christ is the still small voice | hear him May 17, 2020

In this episode I walk you through a way I am gathering Israel at home by preserving my own story with pictures and narrative. I also share the story of a close friend and the profound impact listening to the spirit had on both of us.

https://homeschoolduet.wixsite.com/mysite/letters

heavenly mother | a poem May 04, 2020

I want to acknowledge The mother of us all, The Matriarch of Heaven, our heavenly mother.

There is very little doctrine that we have of Her within the church and of that little revealed truth none of it fully illustrates the depth of my feeling. I have often pondered on this divine feminine being and my relationship with Her. Recently, as I was exploring the words of our leaders about Her and the records of Her mentioned in the early days of the church, I was awoken one morning with an impression from The Spirit.

He invited me to sit, be tutored by Him, and use my spiritual gift of poetry. What should I write about? I inquired. Heavenly Mother was the reply. Today, I will share with you the revelation that followed. I want to remind you that these are my personal feelings and implications of knowledge that I have gained for myself. Nothing should be received as doctrine or representative of official gospel teaching, But rather, view this poem as the spiritual stirrings of my own heart and a reflection of the connection I personally feel to my mother in heaven.

To you, sweet sister, wherever this finds you, and whatever is on your heart in this moment - Happy Mother’s Day.

abundance in family life | interview with kristie gardner May 04, 2020

In a letter, written as episode #32 I discussed the topic of abundance and the reality that as Christ-centered homeschooling mothers we are uniquely blessed with the capacities and opportunities to immerse our children in gospel living and to partake of the goodness Christ offers us.

Until recently, this abundance of homeschooling was out of the reach of many mothers around the world. Today, with the threat of COVID-19 many have found themselves unexpectedly homeschooling temporarily. During this quarantine season in our global history, I have felt impressed to provide this discussion today. I hope it will be one of hope and help. I pray it will provide solace and inspiration. Ultimately, as the Savior is the source of all the goodness we receive in this life, I hope it points you to Him.

Today, we will reflect on the positive possibilities available to the mothers of Zion right now. The abundance that can be found in this moment. Today is a gift of time. You can bless it and make it holy by intentionally approaching it with care. You can consecrate it and make it sacred if you choose. You will do this by not only teaching academic subjects in the home from the perspective of restored truth, but by integrating your gospel learning study into it.

In this moment, almost every mother has the potential to walk this road for a season, and view the landscape of family life from this perspective. For me, the view is breathtaking. Walking away from the world, sanctifying the home, purifying hearts, and honoring God in this way fills my heart with joy. Regardless of your personal feelings about homeschooling as a full time profession, or familial lifestyle, I invite you to consider the magnificent possibilities available beyond what initially may meet the eye.

Personally, I feel privileged every day that I get to do this homeschool gig. It fills me with purpose, fuels me with the sense of living up to my privilege, and beckons me to the divine call of my personal motherhood ministry.

In today’s episode we visit with Kristie and delve into the practice of seeing God’s providence, being grateful for every moment we have with our children, and making the most of them.

hope of israel | a mother's letter for troubled times Mar 30, 2020

In this episode I take a moment to address COVID-19 in a letter to my children. Times are uncertain, as is the future, but Christ is certain, and our future with Him is sure. In light of recent events and considering who we are as Latter-Day Saint, covenant keeping women living through these latter day events, I have searched my heart for words to express the feelings I have about our present struggle to my children. President Nelson has said, “We have great cause for concern. But we do not need to let our fears displace our faith. We can combat those fears by strengthening our faith.” I have labored spiritually to know, for our family, what vital Gospel teachings will strengthen our faith now.

As a product of that I have been compiling a Gathering Israel Unit for my children. In conjunction with today’s letter I invite you to join me and my family in our study of Gathering Israel. Walk with us as we learn more about what the gathering is, how we can play a part in family history and missionary work, as well as how to keep our own records. In the expectation of this unit, my daughter, and I compiled a copywork and activity handbook that we initially designed to fill her current handwriting needs. I have decided to make it available as a download for free on my website for you and your family to use as well. The workbook was designed to be a companion to the current issue of The Millennial Instructor, Volume 3 - The True Olive Tree, which you can purchase separately, but you can use the workbook without it. This workbook and unit ideas is a free resource that could bless both full time and emergency homeschoolers.

I hope it will be a valuable tool as you seek the spirit to guide you and your family as you learn together. Our family’s goal is to start this unit right after Easter, and you can join us. I will share on Instagram and YouTube as we do it. Please share with us using the hashtag #MyStoryTheirStory. Now more than ever, it is vital that our children know and understand who they are, and what they are here to do. Teaching them, I believe, is a part of our life’s mission and purpose.

Published Letter & Study Guide

Workbook

The Millennial Instructor Volume III

the courage of mother eve | interview with lyndsi bennion Mar 09, 2020

President Russell M. Nelson told us in 2015 that, “Attacks against the Church, its doctrine, and our way of life are going to increase. Because of this, we need women who have a bedrock understanding of the doctrine of Christ and who will use that understanding to teach and help raise a sin-resistant generation. We need women who can detect deception in all of its forms. We need women who know how to access the power that God makes available to covenant keepers and who express their beliefs with confidence and charity. We need women who have the courage and vision of our Mother Eve.”

Join me and homeschooling mother in Zion, Lyndsi Bennion as we discuss and apply the message of Mother Eve and its application to the decision to homeschool. How do you, and I, have courage and vision in this great work of salvation?

The Light Lab

Eve and The Choice Made in Eden

the song of the heart | interview with bethany struthers Feb 17, 2020

As mothers in Zion one of the most powerful teaching resources we have is music. If you do not consider yourself to be musical it can feel intimidating to incorporate music into your homeschooling or home gospel instruction with your children. But, the Lord has said, "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads." —Doctrine and Covenants 25:12

This scripture reminds us that heart is all that is needed to worship God through song. Regardless of our musical exposure, experience, or skill God invites us to use this universal language to invite the influence of The Holy Ghost into our homes and teach our children spirit to spirit.

Today, Bethany Struthers, a mother and integrated art and music instructor joins me in a conversation about the power of music and the simple ways we can incorporate it into our mother ministry of teaching the gospel to our children. Bethany is the musical heart behind “The Songs of the Heart” Instagram Feed dedicated to helping mothers find connection with their children through music. Bethany helps us understand the power of music and how to use it to teach the gospel, inspire our children, and find the savior through song.

Homeschool Duet Website

https://scriptures.byu.edu/

www.thesongsoftheheart.com

our title of liberty | a letter to the latter day saint mother Feb 02, 2020

As society shifts further and further from the laws of God, it is the mothers of Zion who must rise to defend the faith, protect the family, and raise the next generation and truth. This letter explores a handful of inspired ensigns raised throughout history and the effect they had on the hearts of the people and parallels them to a modern day title of liberty raised by a living prophet today.

https://www.comeuntochrist.org/

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/the-family-a-proclamation-to-the-world/the-family-a-proclamation-to-the-world?lang=eng

christ and your true identity | interview with brooke snow Jan 27, 2020

I recently read a book by author, speaker, and fellow podcaster Brooke Snow. Brooke has written a book entitled “Living in Your True Identity,” the premise of her message is that in this life we have a divine identity that God has placed in us, and a competing false identity that is the fallen, corruptible, natural man or woman within us.

The False Identity is easily influenced by Satan and the lusts of the world; it is our ability to choose that lets us determine which one of these identifies will determine who we are. In her book, she maps out this human condition and the struggle we all face, each day, as we strive to be true to the identity that our Heavenly Father created in each of us.

In her book she presents clear tools, exercises, and journal prompts to guide the reader through a clarifying understanding of the two identities and how to feed the one you want to flourish.

As mothers of faith Brooke’s book provides a resource for each of us to apply in our journey with the savior in educating our children in light and truth in the home. As we make an effort to leave the world behind, create sanctuaries of faith, and embrace the call we feel Christ has placed in our hearts we are each faced with the inner conflict of our two identities. Join me in a conversation with Brooke Snow, the author who will help us discern between the two and instruct us in intentionally nurturing our true, divine selves. Brooke brings us a message of freedom and hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

www.brookesnow.com

Brooke Snow Podcast

Book

home of learning panel questions | discussion with seek learning Jan 06, 2020

In July 2019 a group of Christ centered, home focused women of faith gathered at the This is the Place Monument for a Conference. The event was organized by A Home of Learning and at that conference I had the opportunity to host a panel discussion. All the questions were pooled from the audience and with only an hour of discussion time, I brought home a small pile of unanswered, little, white cards.

Because I believe in synergy, in community, and in the import of each individual I have not forgotten these little white cards, or the women who wrote them. I have kept them by my bed and used them as inspiration in addressing you here on the podcast.

Today, I am bringing back Becky and Graceanne from a previous episode and in the spirit of the panel we will discuss some of the questions from the stack that correlate well with the mission of Seek Learning.

www.homeoflearning.com

www.seeklearninghome.com

seek learning magazine | interview with its creators Dec 30, 2019

Mother members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints have been invited, in companionship with their husbands and in coordination with the collective, worldwide membership of the church to remodel their homes into sanctuaries of faith. The prophet has counseled us to shift our paradigm from a church centered gospel to a home centered system of spiritual education and practice. The Family: A Proclamation to the World states that, “Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children.” In this charge, the women of Zion are heeding the call and advancing to the front lines of their motherhood. For all of us, this can seem a daunting task. If we are wise however, we will see that this prophetic instruction to realign priorities and more fully convert our hearts and homes is a blessing granting us increased spiritual power, courage, and conversion.

If, like me, you feel there is a steep learning curve that you are still grasping to climb, and you are seeking a little structure or hand holding to inspire and encourage you, this episode will hopefully provide some possibilities.

We will meet Becky Pitcher, and Graceanne Oswald, two Christ-centered homeschooling women who are on a mission to provide a resource for other mothers to provide hands on support and tactile steps of applying this higher and holier ministry in your home. Join us as we learn about their exciting project and continue our discussion on the great mandate, that as mothers we are given by God.

www.seeklearninghome.com

peace | a christmas letter Dec 16, 2019

Have you ever asked yourself the question: where is peace, and how do I find it? Ultimate peace is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In Him we find answers to the questions of life, and the comfort of promises in a life to come. This life has purpose, you matter, and God loves you. In this special episode you will hear a Christmas letter that will help you to discover the deeper peace available to you through the doctrine taught by Jesus Christ, His plan for us, and how you can be reconciled with God and yourself this Christmas.

Please visit:

www.comeuntochrist.org

reaching christ through a portal to heaven | interview with jessica smith Dec 09, 2019

A dear friend of mine who is a fellow Christ centered homeschooler said, when we set apart our homes for teaching children light and truth, our homes become literal portals to heaven. I have thought so much about that, my home being a portal to heaven. Holiness is being set apart for a sacred purpose, and I feel in no way is that more true than homeschooling with Christ. While my home isn’t perfect, since committing to the process of including the savior in my career as a home educator I see him transforming my abode into a sanctuary of faith.

Making your home a center for faith has never been easier than it is today. Never has there been an era or age in the history of mankind better prepared to empower the mother to establish a home prepared to meet God.

Today, society teaches that motherhood is a waste of talent, time, and energy on the part of young women. It claims fulfillment is only found in the accolades of the world and that children are impediments to individual happiness and pleasure. But God’s unchanging truth declares that motherhood is divine, that children are an heritage of the Lord, that lasting joy is found in the family, and that the sacrifices made by every stalwart mother are an offering to her god.

A loving heavenly father has both prepared His daughters, and placed them in a sphere where they can accomplish this great work with joy and thanksgiving. Sister, He has put you right where He needs you to be.

In this episode we will explore the truth that we can create portals to heaven in our homes and will answer how to do it. We will discover that motherhood is more. It’s more than childcare, or babysitting; more than appointments, messes, and meals. Motherhood in companionship with Christ is nurturing, ennobling, edifying, and life giving. It’s a calling of nobility and service to minister to God’s children and to mold the character and life of another.

Come as we remind each other of the privilege that is ours in the call we have accepted, and the magnificent resources and providence that the Lord has provided for each of us.

In this episode meet Jessica Smith, creator and homeschooling mama behind Simple Wonders - Christ like teaching in the home.

Website/blog: https://simplewonders.org/ Instagram:@simple.wonders.co

abundance | a thanksgiving letter Nov 25, 2019

Recently, a mother wrote to me and expressed how grateful she was for having taken the leap and brought her children home to educate them herself. She said, “there is so much abundance.” If given this a lot of thought in this season of offering thanks. What is the abundance of this motherhood journey we take into our homes each day with our children? In the New Testament we see the word abundantly when Jesus taught in John 10:10, that he had come that we might have life and that we might have it more abundantly. As women dedicated to establishing Christ-centered homes and hearts, we have put ourselves in a unique position to access the increased life through our personal discipleship. We have chosen a position with our children, and in our homes that qualifies us for this enduring abundance. Because our Savior lives, He hasn’t just come, He declared, “I will come to you.”

When we are committed to learning, living, and teaching His truth He can, and will, still come to us. He will be in our hearts and in our homes. Abundance is a consequence of drawing near to Him. It is His presence that pours into our souls and surrounds us with a swell of His power and joy.

In this episode we examine the increase of what we receive when we choose to walk this path with Christ, and our families. We will explore the unseen abundance available for discovery each day of our homeschool song as we valiantly seek the cause of Christ.

christ's spirit beckons | come follow me Nov 11, 2019

This world is fast paced and we are always on the move. As intentional, Christ centered homeschoolers we are often of the mindset that we are slowing things down, taking the time to pursue the things we love and delve into literature and works that enliven our schools and the minds of our children. Do we ever fall into the Mary Martha Trap however, and become too consumed with preparing our children for the world that we lose sight of preparing them for the kingdom? Only one thing is needful, the words of god. In this episode Meg’s letter tells the story of the spirit guiding the use of her sacred time with her children in the home.

A lover of Shakespeare, Meg uses her long standing fall study of his works as the backdrop for a spiritual experience that led to a decision to dedicate her home more fully to The Lord. If you are feeling the pressure of the demands society places on preparing children academically for life and need to rest in knowing what ultimately matters you will enjoy this story of grace and God’s willingness to tutor each one of His children personally.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCreEoaGbfsTd248uYvWJtjQ?view_as=subscriber

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/manual/come-follow-me?lang=eng

personal revelation part two | interview with karalee sawyer Sep 09, 2019

As public schools are making a dramatic shift from traditional values and The Family Proclamation is under attack; more and more families are re-evaluating education and members of our faith are increasingly considering homeschool. They are approaching the throne of God and He is speaking.

Today, Karalee Sawyer shares her dramatic experience that brought her from public school mama to full time homeschooler in just 5 weeks! Her story is powerful and life giving. If you have ever felt the call, are seeking it out, or just wonder what this Christ centered movement is all about; join me as we get to know Karalee.

For more on this topic I recommend listening to Part I as well as episode 24 entitled A Divine Education where I interview Ali Cannon Eisenach about her book on this topic. You might also enjoy Episode 2 - A Call to Homeschool.

personal revelation part one | interpreting the language of the spirit Sep 01, 2019

So, how do you know if this path of homeschooling really is the will of our Father and His son for you? Can you with confidence say, this is what He would have me do? How do you interpret the whisperings of the spirit and the Lord’s voice in your life? This episode and the one to follow are designed with the purpose of highlighting the different forms of spiritual communication and to help you explore, get on your knees, listen with intent, and find out the answer for yourself.

This episode is part of the Panel Discussion Series where I answer panel discussion questions from The Home of Learning Conference in July of 2019.

www.ahomeoflearning.com

designing your year | our curriculum story Aug 19, 2019

As homeschool moms designing a school year can feel overwhelming, even more so if this is your first rodeo, and you have no idea where to begin. My advice is, if you haven’t already, to begin on Part one of this topic on designing your homeschool year where I outline how to first create your homeschool spiritually. Then, come back over here for my curriculum story. Establishing the academic side of your homeschool can be challenging, but it can also be joyful when we acknowledge that what’s real is that which is of the spirit and that the things of the world will ultimately fall away. You don’t have to know it all now. Time and grace will see you through. Don’t get bogged down by the stuff and the things, move forward in faith keeping your eye on Christ. He knows the way.

This is the second episode of a two part piece on designing your school year. In this episode I discuss the second half of a whole education; the physical half. I will focus primarily on academics. In Part I we learned about creating a homeschool spiritually first and allowing a set intention to serve as a guide for the impending years instruction. Today, I share our curriculum story, what we love and why.

Part two of a two part series on Designing your school year - Light Gatherers

www.thegoodandthebeautiful.com

designing your year | all things are first created spiritually Aug 12, 2019

As homeschool moms the start of the school year can be stressful. Between buying curriculum and school supplies to signing up for fall activities and designing our days, fall can be just as overwhelming for us as it is for parents who are back to school shopping in the public school race. I have come to find however, as the years pass the intensity with which I once approached fall has gained a more spiritual focus. The coziness of the impending season has become less about material and more about the sacred, as I purposely make this time about tuning into my savior’s will for our school.

In this first episode of a two part series I discuss the first half of a whole education-the spiritual half. I walk you through my method of keeping motivated and running a living school. I introduce you to the mindful concept of intentionally seeking and setting a theme for your year, putting together a simple at-a-glance guide for yourself, and how to put a focus on creating your homeschool spiritually first before putting it into play physically and academically one year at a time.

So let’s dive into Part one of a two part series on Designing your school year - All things are first created spiritually

Things Are First Created Spiritually - spiritually
Light Gatherers - The academic side of the school year (curriculum)

a home of learning conference presentation Aug 07, 2019

This letter is entitled "Duet." It is the letter I wrote to the community of A Home of Learning- A community of women from The Church of Jesus Christ who homeschool. I presented this letter on July 20, 2019 at This is the Place Village in Salt Lake City, UT.

https://editor.wix.com/html/editor/web/renderer/edit/0b73338b-af38-4f20-a094-c6cc5ebc883b?metaSiteId=a80c2bab-b9eb-4633-a579-382902abf4e1&editorSessionId=065a6f14-f850-4d61-9e8e-d4df995454ea&referralInfo=dashboard

This talk really was God’s work, as I hope all of my writing here is. Throughout the process; I felt impressed with very specific phrases and analogies. These would come in the middle of the night or after a visit to the temple. Not surprisingly, I felt that these key things were to be the priority when I presented, and I was careful only to cut in the moment what I felt were more my own rambling ideas. While, I am presenting the complete writing here it is worth noting that following the conference every piece of feedback I received seemed founded in those specific God inspired phrases and analogies. Women took what I spoke over them and taught me so much more. This is the spirit of God among us. The windows of heaven are open and we are receiving the increased light and knowledge God has promised us in these The Latter Days.

To women laboring in the vineyard with the Lord for His children; look up and accept the fullness of His blessings for you. Remember who you are and by what name he are called. There is a work for you to do, and every needful thing is given unto you.

In addition to this audio recording today; I invite you to watch for a future written digital copy soon, that you can print to highlight and study. My expectation will be to have it distributed by A Home of Learning through e-mail. I will however, also make an effort to post it in this episode’s description for easy access or for any who do not subscribe to A Home of Learning. As always you are welcome to share with anyone who is considering homeschooling or who is needing some direction and encouragement in this area.

A Home of Learning

you are enough | interview with erica mccann May 20, 2019

My special guest, Indy artist . Singer songwriter and stay at home mama, Erica McCann introduces her new self produced album, Motherhood Is… A work inspired by her personal experiences in young motherhood, and written to remind moms that they’re not alone. We are all learning to find the beauty in the broken.

She also talks to us about the importance of giving time and nourishment to yourself as a mom, practicing grace in imperfection, and accepting Christ’s love for you. Many of these topics resonate in the lyrics of her album. A woman of faith who is seeking balance and grace, Erica will inspire you to rest in the peace of your Savior and to trust the story of your own life. At the conclusion of our discussion Erica shares the song, “You are Enough.”

http://www.ericamccann.com/

divine education | interview with ali cannon eisenach May 06, 2019

This month we are speaking directly to the forgotten mother. The mother who maybe wants to homeschool, but due to financial hardships, poor health, injury, or a lack of family support is not able to fully realize her heart's desire. Often, it’s hard to articulate to others what our heart knows, but what eyes cannot see. Maybe our words alone cannot fully defend our point of view. Sometimes we need the voice of another to articulate what we think and give us supporting evidence to back our spiritual claims. A voice that can remind us that we are not alone.

This episode is for that individual, the parent who needs a tool to teach and to share with the naysayers in their life why a spirit-led, Christ-centered, education in the home is not only a viable educational option, but one to prioritize and embrace.

https://www.millennialstandardpress.com/

he remembers | the forgotten mother May 02, 2019

An open letter to the mother who struggles on Mother's Day to feel that she is enough. Written to the mothers of faith who are not from the mold.

easter celebration series part three | interview with stephanie reed Apr 12, 2019

In this final installment of our Easter mini series Stephanie Reed and I share a quick and easy Easter symbolism lesson idea and some guidance for how and when to quickly invent your own. We provide encouragement for any overwhelmed mom who is just looking to get started or for a more seasoned mama to refine a few of her yearly practices. We wrap up our discussion on creating connection with traditions and the importance of evaluating yours and if they are indeed bringing you and your family closer to Christ. This whole series reminds us that Easter is not about a bunny, but a lamb.

easter celebration series part two | interview with stephanie reed Apr 11, 2019

In part two of this three part mini series on celebrating Easter in your homeschool we get down to the nitty-gritty of what materials, resources, and rituals you can incorporate into your celebrations. We include two personal reading book recommendations to inspire your own enrichment as well as a great read-aloud and picture book to enjoy with your kids. In addition to great online resources and ideas for making your holiday more centered on the Savior you’ll enjoy a warm conversation with Utah’s homeschooling mama and Salt Project Adventurer, Stephanie Reed

http://www.saltproject.co/

https://www.thesmallseed.com/search?q=easter

https://www.lds.org/bible-videos/?lang=eng

https://store.lds.org/usa/en/savior-pictures-kit

https://www.amazon.com/Miss-Fannies-Hat-Jan-Karon/dp/0140568123/ref=asc_df_0140568123/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312057607871&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2816033471880780478&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9012564&hvtargid=pla-493208735231&psc=1

easter celebration series part one | interview with stephanie reed Apr 10, 2019

In part one of this three part series Stephanie Reed from The Salt Project joins me to discuss the traditions surrounding the season. How can we bring Christ's story and light into our homeschool days and into the hearts of our children? How can we determine which traditions are worth out time and effort and when to let go and allow the most powerful and meaningful rituals rise to the top of our busy lives.

Discover what you can do to inspire your home and your children and find new and old celebrations and festivities that fit your family.

christ's kingdom | interview with emily gleave Mar 31, 2019

Join us for Part II of Christ's Kingdom | Trusting in Gifts Unseen where Emily Gleave from Sunflower Schoolhouse and I discuss how as Christ-centered homeschool moms we are building and blessing His kingdom today. Sometimes it’s hard to see the forest through the trees in the work in which we are engaged, but our savior is there, blessing us. As we establish a Christ culture, we may not realize the depth and breadth of what we are in fact doing, but our Savior knows. He knows that the tender hearts of our children are receptive and gleaning. He knows that this culture we are cultivating is worth all that we sacrifice to provide, and He loves us for committing our hearts to His. He needs us in this work of salvation.

When we trust in the giver of all good gifts we will begin to acknowledge that the sacred spaces, places, and practices we establish, the daily work that we do to foster learning and faith, puts our children’s feet on the path home to Christ. It confirms light and truth in their being, and inspires their desires to make righteous decisions. It builds His kingdom, one home and one precious soul at a time.

If you are considering homeschooling, and want to know the deep unseen blessings that can come from taking this leap, or if you are in the process but are not really giving yourself the grace and credit you could, or if you wonder why God asks His daughters to champion the home, this episode will strengthen your heart and give it courage and rest.

christ's kingdom | trusting in gifts unseen Mar 19, 2019

As homeschooling moms we are building and blessing His kingdom today. Sometimes it’s hard to see the forest through the trees in the work in which we are engaged, but our savior is there, blessing us. As we establish a Christ culture, we may not realize the depth and breadth of what we are in fact doing, but our Savior knows. He knows that the tender hearts of our children are receptive and gleaning. He knows that this culture we are cultivating is worth all that we sacrifice to provide, and He loves us for committing our hearts to His. He needs us in this work of salvation.

When we trust in the giver of all good gifts we will begin to acknowledge that the sacred spaces, places, and practices we establish, the daily work that we do to foster learning and faith, puts our children’s feet on the path home to Christ. It confirms light and truth in their being, and inspires their desires to make righteous decisions. It builds His kingdom, one home and one precious soul at a time.

If you are considering homeschooling, and want to know the deep unseen blessings that can come from taking this leap, or if you are in the process but are not really giving yourself the grace and credit you could, or if you wonder why God asks His daughters to champion the home, this episode will strengthen your heart and give it courage and rest.

looking to christ in burnout | falling in love with the work Mar 04, 2019

It’s late winter. The holidays are over. We are just sitting on the cusp of spring, and if you are like most homeschooling mothers you are caught in the rhythm of the year this is the moment when we hurry up and wait. This is the season where we hold on and see the year through. This is the time when the threat of burnout rears its ugly head.

So, what can we do about it? How can we get through thrive through it and not just survive through it? What does it mean to let Christ sustain us, and how can we access His power to light us with a flame that will light our way and not burn us down? This is what my letter to you today is all about.

christ as author | trusting the story Feb 18, 2019

As homeschool moms we tend to go into panic mode when things don’t go as planned. This can mean anything from the little things like not having all the supplies for the days science project to the big things like discovering that a child has a learning disability. Whatever we are planning for our homeschool, we can expect that things will play out differently. Homeschooling is an extension of our family institution and it is learning integrated into our life. So, when life happens, how do we find Christ there, in the unexpected? When the story turns, ruins our plans, and throws us off, how can we roll with the punches, breath deeply, stay the course and trust the story.

where christ dwells | interview with heather robison Feb 11, 2019

This episode is part 2 of a discussion entitled, "where christ dwells." In this interview portion Heather Robison, creator of www.ahomeoflearning.com and spirit led homeschooling mother shares her personal experiences with her Savior in establishing a christ centered home of learning. Her insights provide inspiration for founding your own homeschool in the teachings of the savior and welcoming him into your space.

where christ dwells | a home of learning Feb 04, 2019

As spirit led mothers and home educators we desire to establish a home of learning for our children to thrive both spiritually and academically. What does it mean to establish a home of learning? How can we realize the power available to us in our lives by inviting the Savior into our space? If we are wise and put our homes in order they truly can become temples, holy, sanctified spaces where our Lord is our welcome guest. Our homes can ground us, protect us, and give us shelter from the storms of life.

christ helps us behold our children | interview with kindle garner Jan 21, 2019

This episode is part 2 of a discussion entitled, "Christ Helps Us Behold Our Children." In this interview portion Kindle Garner, adoption and homeschooling mother shares her personal experiences with her Savior in learning to see the good in others and developing Christlike charity through the atonement of Jesus Christ. Her narrative highlights the personal ways Christ has made himself available to each of us to love as He loves.

christ helps us behold our children | i can see your halo Jan 14, 2019

christ refines us | how he changed my nature through homeschool Nov 04, 2018

christ beside you | pray for a breeze Oct 14, 2018

christ in nature | all things testify of him Oct 07, 2018

raising children for christ | interview with randi gardner Sep 30, 2018

Randi Gardner from The Kindred Cooperative joins Meg in a conversation about the scripture counsel to nurture our children in the admonition of the Lord.

www.kindredcooperative.com

We all desire to raise righteous children for Christ. How homeschooling provides unique ways to do this. The scriptures teach about the nurture and admonition of the Lord. What does the phrase imply? What can it teach us? How can we better admonish and nurture our children in the Lord?

This interview helps us consider how we are admonishing our children in Christ and how we can do it better. Randi shares with us how she navigates this motherly responsibility in her homeschool with a growing brood of busy children. She highlights what role Christ has played in her nurturing, and in admonishing her personally in her walk with him.

We hope you will find parallels you can apply to your own parenthood and that as a homeschooling mama, you can find advantages and unique opportunities you have to accomplish this spiritual mandate.

christ rescues the one | interview with hannah stevenson Sep 23, 2018

A letter specifically written to warrior mamas with special needs children. Meg's eldest son is a high functioning autistic child with ADHD and this topic is very close to her heart. If you are a mother struggling to educate a child who learns in their own way or any wanting to know more about the option of homeschooling your gifted child this episode will give you hope and understanding.

Hannah Stevenson from Lilly and Thistle is a mother who's heart is also the home of a unique child with special challenges. She joins Meg in this courageous conversation about the people they love the most. Learn how these woman have come unto Christ and relied on Him in this call to homeschool a child with special needs.

christ qualifies the called | interview with elizabeth shideler Sep 16, 2018

Elizabeth from School Upon the Rock joins Meg in a conversation designed to remind you that as you take on the work of teaching God's children in the home He will qualify you. The is no such thing as a perfect mother. The Lord knows us and He knows our imperfections. Brokeness is a part of the plan. If we were not broken, we would not need Him to heal or qualify us.

Elizabeth shares a personal experience of overcoming a dark time with the help of the savior. She tells her story about God placing the right people in her life at the right time to be a model for her to follow and to answer her prayers. She illustrated the qualifying power of our Lord when we answer the call to do His work.

christ crafted your heart | an interview with tessa rosales Sep 09, 2018

As society has lost its need for God and the role of mother is increasingly minimized and demeaned it is easy for women walking this road to feel the negative effects of this movement. It is easy to question our value or our authority. We have been conditioned in our culture to believe that an outside institution is where we need to gain our answers and that they could do it better.

This is not true. God has given authority over the spiritual nourishment and character development to parents. Mother's in particular are uniquely suited to nurture and admonish children in christ. This divine authority is a power that mothers can tap into wield to bless the lives of their families.

In this episode Tessa Rosales helps provide insights and how to embrace the truth we have in the Christian life. The gifts of gospel living are available to you. God has not given us a feeling of fear, but of faith. You do not need to doubt your abilities, you can rely on Christ and His perfection.

christ centered homeschool part two | interview with kaycee Sep 02, 2018

In part 2 of making our home christ centered Kaycee from The Red Brick Schoolhouse helps us break down specific materials and classroom helps to use in your home. From great resources to find used materials to little reminders of the the lord to tuck in your home. Kaycee and Meg have an insightful conversation about the joys of centering your home on Christ.

christ centered homeschool part one | interview with kaycee Aug 26, 2018

We desire a Christ centered homeschool, but don’t know how to establish it or want to do it better. We are the heart of our school. In order to have Christ as the center of our school He must first be the center of us. How can we filter through all the demands of life and allow our lord to rise to the top of our thoughts and priorities?

Kaycee from the Redbrick Schoolhouse comes along to help us find out and answer the questions:

How do I make Christ the center of my day and keep Him in my thoughts always? How can I increase my focus on Him with all the busy distractions of daily homeschool life and turn teaching moments with my children into spiritually enriching moments for me? How do I find worship through my tasks as a homeschool mom and fill my home with christ centered materials?

This episode and the one to follow answer these pivotal questions of how to nourish the soul of the Christian homeschool mother.

christ's call to homeschool | interview with mikael monson Aug 20, 2018

An interview with Mikael Monson from Monson Schoolhouse

What are your greatest stumbling blocks in starting or continuing joyfully to homeschool? How does Christ offer you personal solutions? Are you experiencing fear and self doubt, judgement from others? Are you afraid of your day to day drastically changing, or if you have to right finances and tools? Maybe your concerned about the personal sacrifice it will require, if you have the capacity, or if you can face the dreaded unknown.

This episode addresses these anxieties and questions. In an interview with Mikael from Monson Schoolhouse I ask her to tell you the first time she heard the call to homeschool and about the wrestle she had with it? Mikael describes her own insecurities, doubts and fears. She explains how Christ became the solution to her wrestle and uncovered how she discovered homeschooling was right for her family.

If you have felt this tug in your heart and are considering homeschooling, but have some honest reservations and concerns let this episode inspire you to study it out, pray and gain the courage you need through Christ.

your homeschool duet with christ | a letter to the listener Aug 13, 2018

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