School is ending and this mama cannot wait! I love summer. I love the warm mornings, sitting by the pool, cookouts, the late sunsets, and all the family time! Truthfully, my heart is happiest creating memories with my loved ones whether vacationing, staying local or simply spending time with my family during the summer break. I try and approach this time of year with a healthy balance of work, play, and downtime. We do not always get it right, but we put our best foot forward and try and sometimes…. try again!
I recognize what works for, some does not work for all, and that the formula for success has a different break down of ingredients and quantities based on a variety of factors. This time of year, can be stressful for many reasons.
Working parents may be signing up their children for all the camps, activities or in need of full-time childcare of which school supported in some ways. Others may be looking for ways to fill their calendar up with all the projects/adventures and others may want to just RELAX!
Just as we are close enough to smell the chlorine, charcoal, and aloe vera, May packs a mighty punch with all the end of the school year extras. Before I hit the ground running with summer I try and take time to:
Consult with God
Lord, how do you want us to use this time? What are we doing well? Where do we need better habits? Can we serve as a family together somewhere?
Cultivate Consistent Routines
Yes, we are on summer break but that does not mean we break from daily routines. We are waking up, getting dressed, brushing our teeth, spending time with Jesus, completing chores and getting some movement in daily. We will spend time together as a family. We also have daily limits on electronics.
Cancel the Comparison Game
Comparison is a thief. It robs you of joy. It steals peace. It leaves you unsettled and chasing after an unattainable facade. Clear those distractions. Have tunnel vision for your family and what draws you closer together. Form memories with one another.
Create Space for Grace
We are not going to get it perfect. There will be some days that get away from us, but each day brings a fresh slate to try again. Ask God to fill you with what you need for each day, He promises to.
Celebrate and Enjoy Your Time with Your Family
Just like the psalmist says in Psalm 103, “As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more.”
Our days are inescapably numbered, not only in total day but also the number of summers we get with our children before they are grown and on their own. Let us not waste them trying to keep up with everyone around us. Instead, let us remember the most important part is not how full our calendar got, or how much gas we depleted in our vehicles, but the memories we created are our own and what carry us through.