Over twenty years ago, we, (the Heppners) began a venture called homeschooling. As we were the only ones homeschooling in our specific area at that time, and homeschooling was generally uncommon, many who were curiously interested in what we were doing differently came to us with questions. Good homeschooling resources were hard to find. Most educational curriculums were only available to accredited schools. The few curriculums we found that were available to homeschoolers left much to be desired. So, we began researching materials for our children. As we began finding resources that we felt were excellent, we shared that information with others. We initially became Home Grown Kids distributors to assist others' access to that great line of resources. As we found more resources that filled a need for our family, we began obtaining accounts with the authors and publishers. A one page list of materials available through us gradually expanded into a forty page catalog and extensive website.

In 1994, we opened a store-front in Warroad, MN. We have serviced homeschool conventions in MN, ND, SD, WY, and Manitoba, Canada, some for over twenty years. For some time now, we have sensed the need to move the business to the Twin Cities area to make it more accessible to the majority of our customer base.

On May 12th, 2006, I received an unexpected phone call . . . this is where Nancy Bjorkman takes over this narration.

If you've read about the Bjorkman family in "Our Family News", you know that Brad, after 17+ years in medical marketing, was let go from his job in January, 2006. In April, when the MN homeschool convention came around, he was able to attend the conference and hear me speak for the first time ever. It was a turning point for everything as we walked the vendor hall together and shared what was once only "my world". God planted a seed that weekend whose roots took hold quickly as we considered the idea of starting a ministry within this unique community. It was then that we heard that the Heppners were looking for a family to take on the day-to-day part of their resource business.

Miriam and I had met and spoken a few times in the past when we were both speakers at the same conference. We knew that we had a lot in common but had never had the chance to nurture a relationship. Once again, God moved. One afternoon in mid-May while I was making my bed, God whispered to me that I should call Miriam. "But I'm making my bed", was my thought. He didn't let it go. So, my bed was left behind for the telephone. I found a number for the Heppners and called, wondering if Miriam would know who I was outside of the context of a conference. It was God's perfect timing, she knew exactly who I was, and we spent almost an hour sharing "Mom" stuff and praying together. She told me that she had really needed a call of encouragement that day!

The Heppner's first visit to the Bjorkman's - DuWayne, Miriam, Nancy, & Brad

We soon began talking about their ministry/business, and finally in July were able to get the Heppners to our home so that we could all meet together. By the time that evening was over we were in agreement that this could be a good match. We were right! Because the Heppners live 7 hours north of us, anytime they have needed to be in the Twin Cities, they come and stay with us. It may be with just DuWayne (Spud) and Miriam, or sometimes with up to 9 of their 16 children. What a time we have together as families!

As of January, 2007, it's official. We are now Heppner & Heppner/Legacy Homeschool Resources working closely together to expand what we have to offer you. We've developed this new, updated website, and have plans to soon offer a new catalog. We also hope to open a store front near Elk River, MN, where we look forward to meeting you face-to-face while you browse and shop in a homey, friendly atmosphere anytime of year.

Letter To Customers - January, 2007   [Download].