Alone in the Wilderness

by Connie Clay

I sometimes enjoy watching television after supper. It feels good to relax after a day of work. Tonight, my husband, Dennis, and I were weary of the news—all of the fear and all of the distress in our world, caused by a virus we can’t even see. So, I suggested we watch one of our favorite DVDs, called Alone in the Wilderness. It is the rough captured video of a man in his fifties, who left the Midwest to live by himself in Alaska. It seems he needed a change. He lands by plane in the wilderness with some gear and treks over to a mountain cabin owned by a friend, where he will remain until he can get his own cabin built.

Read more

A Song on Our Lips

by Jamie Bonnema

I won’t be afraid anymore of the terrors by night
Or the arrow that flies by day
And though a thousand may fall at my side
And though ten thousand may fall
In Him I’ll put all my trust
–Lincoln Brewster

I woke up this morning, took a shower, and put on my favorite cozy flannel shirt and jeans. I stepped outside to feed my furry babies—something I always look forward to. Everything had been kissed by rain last night, and I was reminded that summer will soon be on its way to us. I headed to the kitchen with chocolate chip pumpkin muffins on my mind, intending to get them done before the kids awoke. I was greeted in the kitchen with a hug from my husband, and we chatted about our plans for the day.

Read more

Protected: 6th Grade

This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below:

Dear Parents: A love letter from your child’s teacher…

Dear Parents,

February is the month of hearts and flowers and Valentine’s Day, so I am sending you this love letter. It is not as much about you, as it is about someone we both love dearly—your child.

As parents, you are the primary teacher and guardian of your child, and I know you loved your child first. But I get to spend a large part of each day with your precious child, and even though I didn’t plan for it, I fell in love—with your child, and all the other children I am privileged to teach.

We both want the same thing for your child—that he or she can be holy, healthy, and happy—in that order. I want your child to learn about science and math and great literature and music, and I want your child to develop good character and healthy relationships. However, nothing matters as much in the span of eternity as having your child develop a personal relationship with Jesus.

Read more

Embracing the “Extra”

by Shanna Meyer

When asked to describe what it’s like being the parent to a child with special needs, my first feeling is that of instant gratitude—gratitude that I am blessed to be the mom to such an amazing little soul. Every child is a gift from God. The only thing different about the life of a child with special needs is that it comes with a little (sometimes a lot) of “extra.” At times that extra can be scary for the entire family, but just like anything new in life, you learn to adapt. And even though it might not be what you expected, if you embrace that extra you will realize just how lucky you are. And for everyone who is blessed to know and be a part of that special needs child’s life, they will also get to experience the wonders that a little extra has to offer.

Read more

Online Use Inventory

by Jamie Bonnema

Isn’t it mind boggling to think about how many of our daily tasks have turned into online experiences? We no longer have to leave our vehicles or houses to shop. A library is not required for research—it is only a reach away with the touch of our phones. News is available in real-time online instead of in the newspaper a day later. Pen and paper has been replaced with online documents and an online notepad. Phone calls have given way to social media messaging, conversations have turned into likes and emojis, and memes have replaced how we convey our opinions. Instant gratification, as well as instant disappointment, is readily available around every online corner.

Read more

Social Media Buffet

by Jamie Bonnema

The social media experience has some running away, many addicted, and others trying to set good boundaries for its use. In trying figure out guidelines for myself, my trips to buffets with family when I was young came to mind. Everything looked so good when I walked in. The choices seemed to be unlimited. I always loaded up my plate, went back for more, topped it off with too much dessert, and finished the meal hanging over my chair, sick with regret. As a wiser adult, I can now go to a buffet, have a great time, and walk away feeling good and nourished.

Read more

Thoughtfully Entering the New Year

by Jamie Bonnema

On a snowy day, I sit at the computer to write. The kids are quietly playing after a morning of sleeping in. The brightness from the snow defeats the overcast sky, and I feel perfectly cozy in my sweats on the couch. In these moments I can do some quiet thinking, continual praying, and flush out a few ideas roaming in my head. I’m very thankful God gives us moments like this to just sit still and catch our breath.

I had a visit with family over the break. A question caught me a bit off-guard as I forgot a new year, even a new decade, was sneaking up on me. I was just enjoying the Christmas season, making it through each event without a catastrophe, and aiming for a joyful spirit despite some challenges. But there the question was, and I had not yet solidified my answer.

Read more

O Come, Let Us Adore

Last Thursday evening our Genesis Classical Academy students presented their Christmas concert, “O Come, Let Us Adore.” The final number in the program was a rousing rendition of “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” complete with the nativity scene presented by the kindergarten class.

One of our parents captured this heartwarming (and hilarious) photo of the manger scene. This photo was not staged, folks. It represents “real life” in the world of kindergartners.

Mary was covering her ears, trying to block out the noise and chaos of the stable. Joseph was exhausted after the long trip to Bethlehem. The shepherds dutifully kept watch over their sheep, while the wise men searched for the star.

And the angels – oh, those angels! They were rockin’ it out above the manger. Dancing. For. Joy.

Consider this photo our Christmas card to all of you, because it represents so many of our wishes for you during this blessed season.

We pray that you will find rest in the midst of the busyness of the season, and that you will be able to block out the noise and keep your focus on the One who is the true gift, Jesus.

We hope that you will keep careful watch over the hearts and minds of those whom God has entrusted to your care, and that you will continue to search for the Guiding Light, in the presence of the Holy Spirit.

And we wish you joy! We pray that you will take time to dance for joy.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

Merry Christmas from Genesis Classical Academy! May God shower you with His richest blessings today, and throughout the coming year.

Fighting the Battle Alone

by Jamie Bonnema

Awhile ago, I was disheartened by many issues going on around me. I was frustrated and overwhelmed. I felt torn and divided, not knowing which battles to fight and understood that I can’t fight them all. I backed away a bit from the things I had been working on, realizing that I felt like my wheels were spinning, I was out of the fiery enthusiasm that I had started with, and felt at a loss for the role I am to play. I was burdened by the thought that I have to do more, but questioned what I can really do that would make a bit of difference. The joy had seemingly been stolen from me. And with a wonderful holiday season approaching, I did not want that heaviness to linger much longer.

Read more