About

Photos by Leah Thompson

Hi! I'm April. I am an artist and homeschool mom living in the Pacific Northwest. My husband, Ryan, is my hero. He is a modern-day warrior and sacrifices daily to protect and serve his community. He is my best friend, and he makes everything better. Together we raise our three precious sons (Kender, Rhett, & Mason) on our five-acre homestead. This blog is a journal of motherhood, homeschooling, and daily life on our homestead.

Homeschool

We started homeschooling back in 2016. It has taken a few years, but I have finally developed a measure of confidence in my ability to homeschool my boys. I’ve also realized that our homeschool doesn’t have to look like public school, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s homeschool either. My boys are smart and capable. I want them to enjoy their childhood, and not have to deal with the incredible amounts of stress that so many children face right now.

I have seen that children are capable of learning so much through play. And I’ve learned that it’s ok if they don’t learn how to read right away, or math doesn’t come naturally to them. Every human being is a unique individual, and we all learn at our own pace. It’s ok to slow down and enjoy the journey.

The thing I love most about homeschool is that it gives my children the freedom to just be kids. They don’t have to worry about growing up too fast. Society has taught us that we are not capable of giving our children what they need, but in truth, we are what they need most. They need our love and our time. They need us to guide them, and struggle with them. They need us to be there for them when they need help. Who cares if you suck at algebra? You can learn together.

Faith

I believe in God. I see evidence of his hand in nature. He is the ultimate artist and designer. Every flower that blooms, creature that breathes, and fire that burns is evidence of his handy work. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I believe that he was sent to this earth to give us an example of how we should live, and to atone for our sins. I believe that each person has the freedom to live as they choose, and that each of us, through Christ’s atonement, has the ability to repent when we make mistakes and become better people.

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” - James 1:5

I have asked God and felt the peace of the Holy Spirit. I know that Jesus Christ lives. He did the impossible. The Son of God, born to a virgin mother. He lived a sinless life, and set an example for us. He taught us to be kind, to love one another, to care for one another. He took on the sins of the world to save us, because He loves us. He died and was resurrected. Through His Atonement, we are all saved from death. He Lives!

We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Philosophy

I believe that having gratitude can make a huge difference in our lives. I want to soak up the good things and hold them with me forever, and I hope I can teach my children to do the same. In a world that seems so full of hate, I want to teach my children to love and serve. I want to teach them to see God’s hand in their lives daily. I want to teach them to work hard, and respect others while standing up for what they believe in.

Welcome to my Happy Place!