At Mindfully Educated, I share the real, evolving story of what it means to homeschool with purpose. This space was created for families who believe that learning is more than checking boxes, it’s a lifelong process of curiosity, reflection, and growth.

Here, you’ll find a blend of classical homeschooling, nature-inspired learning, and my own research-driven approach to curriculum design. I don’t follow a single method or book by the letter - instead, I take what’s meaningful, practical, and effective, and make it work for real life.

Education, in my home and in my work, is about balance: structure and freedom, logic and creativity, discipline and curiosity.

Welcome to

Mindfully Educated

My name is Lorena, I’m a homeschooling mother of three and a nature-based educator, living a family-centered life alongside my husband - rooted in learning, rhythm, and purpose. I’ve spent the past several years building learning spaces where children thrive outdoors, think critically, and stay connected to their natural curiosity.

I’m the founder of Oak Ridge Nature School, a nature-based program that encourages hands-on exploration and community learning, and Gear Up Get Outdoors, a brand that provides tools and printables for educators and families who want to bring more nature into their programs and homes.

Mindfully Educated grew out of both of those worlds - it’s where I write, reflect, and design. This is the place where I can share the “why” behind what I create, what I’ve learned from teaching, and how I homeschool my own children in a way that’s both challenging and meaningful.

Who I Am

Homeschool

Insights into how I structure our homeschool days: the rhythm, subjects, and real-life experiences that shape our learning journey.

Curriculum

A look inside the unit studies and resources I design; how I build them, what philosophies guide them, and how you can use them in your own home or classroom.