Yesterday, during our homeschool “recess break,” I told Lucy we needed to do some deadheading in the garden. Her response? A very honest: “I don’t feel like doing that today.”
To which I replied, “Me either. But taking care of our home is a way we can show our gratitude to God for blessing us with this home and these flowers. Taking care of something is how we say thanks.”
She grumbled, but still got to work. And then—because only Lucy could—she broke into Christmas songs while deadheading flowers…in August. 😂
It made me laugh, but it also struck me: what a perfect picture of life’s everyday lessons.
We don’t clean the house, weed the garden, or fold the laundry just because it “has to be done.” We do it because it’s a way to say: Thank You, Lord, for entrusting me with this space, this family, this gift of a home.
It’s not a HAVE TO. It’s a GET TO.
We get to clean this beautiful home.
We get to pull weeds from this gorgeous garden.
We get to care for the blessings God has given us.
That small shift in perspective makes all the difference.
It took me a long time to learn that lesson myself, but I’m proud that Lucy and Anderson are learning it young. Gratitude isn’t just in the words we pray—it’s in how we care for the gifts God has given us, even when the task makes us want to grumble.
And maybe, just maybe, it’s easier to learn when you’re belting out Christmas carols while you do it. 😉
Hi, I’m Lindsey—wife, homeschooling mom, animal lover, and cappuccino enthusiast with a heart full of stories and a deep love for teaching and learning.
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I started Raising Light to share our journey of parenting with purpose.
As a former teacher, wildlife rehabilitator, Realtor, and dog trainer turned full-time mom, I’ve walked an unexpected and beautiful path that led me to home education and a deeper faith.
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My daughter, Lucy, is the light of my life—and the inspiration behind this blog.
Her name literally means “light,” and I believe that every child carries their own unique glow. I don’t believe she’s “gifted”—I believe she’s growing and glowing because she’s loved, encouraged, and supported.
And I believe your child can thrive in the same way.
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I know what it’s like to struggle with learning.
I grew up with dyslexia, diagnosed in second grade, and for years I felt like I just couldn’t measure up.
But through grit, grace, and one remarkable professor who finally saw me—I not only overcame it, but became a passionate educator.
Now I use that experience to help guide my daughter, and hopefully, other parents too.
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This space is where I share our learning journey, parenting reflections, spiritual walk, and the tools and truths that have made all the difference.
My prayer is that Raising Light will encourage you, equip you, and remind you that you’re not alone.
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We’re not here to be perfect.
We’re here to grow—and let our light shine.
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Welcome to our story. I’m so glad you’re here.
With love,
Lindsey
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