You may spend every waking hour with your children—but how often do you really see them? Today on Home School Heartbeat, HSLDA President Mike Smith visits with a mom who has developed a creative way of seeing her family.
Mike Smith:
My guest today is Meka Zieger, a homeschooling mom of four. Welcome to the program, Meka!
Meka Zieger:
Thank you, Mike. It’s a pleasure to talk with you!
Mike:
Meka, you’ve developed a creative way of recording your family and homeschooling experience. Tell our listeners about it, please.
Meka:
Sure! I keep what’s called an illustrated journal, where I recount our days in writing and drawing. It gives me time to purposely reflect on who my children are, and drawing is very satisfying to me. At first it was a way to work through my changing ideas about schooling and motherhood, but now it’s my voice. It’s where I share my learning about learning. It answers that homeschooling question, “What’s a day like in your house?”
Mike:
Meka, do you find that journaling with art renews your love for your family in any special way?
Meka:
Absolutely! Susan Schaeffer Macauley said, “Blessed are those who learn to enjoy what’s good in their everyday.” My journal helps me find someone each day to celebrate—even on the bad days. I’ve drawn tantrums! It helps me keep my sense of humor, and we all look back at the pages and laugh.
You know, when you draw someone, when you trace his contours, you can’t help but begin to really see who he is. And instead of wanting time away, my hobby requires little models around me! It helps me remember that these are real, developing people—not just my little homeschooling projects.
Mike:
Meka, thank you for joining us! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
