Summer is here...
For the past few summers, I've put my kids on a schedule because they were too young to find things to do on their own. This year, I'm playing it by ear...no schedule, no tickets, no theme nights, no fair projects. Tera and Daniel have certain things to accomplish before lunch (short math practice, instrument practice, typing and doing something with Michael) They offer to help with chores, but other than that they play, read, create and sometimes fight. It's been 1 week of this new relaxed way and we're still doing okay. If things change, we'll go back to more structure.
We've done some pretty cool things the past two weekends:
A play at our friends' church...
Michael with Peter Pan
and a educational day trip for Tera's history fair project....(more on that in another post this week)
We aren't doing fair projects this year and are pulling back from our participation in the summer reading program at our local library. We'll attend at least one special performance, but won't be participating in the kick-off like we've done every year. I just haven't been impressed with it and don't want to feel obligated to do something...just because.
I want this summer to feel wide open.....
Skippy Jon Jones: Lost in Spice portrait
by Michael
Skipping rocks
I'm focusing on weight loss, experimenting with some menu ideas, reading A LOT (compared to the rest of this year), organizing more in the house and other low key things. I'm sleeping in everyday and staying up later than I do during the school year.
A new to us, entertainment center
The house is quiet now with children all playing and working on various things. The window are wide open and everything is airing out.
I feel like that, too...I'm airing myself out....giving myself a much needed breath. Doing things that work on me...reading my Bible, getting healthy, and pursuing things of interest. Trying to let go of stress, of things that weigh my mind down, reflecting and working on me (the inside and outside).
"May I learn to be content in whatever circumstances I am in. Whether I am in need or in abundance, whether I am filled or hungry, let me learn the secret of being content in any and all situation. I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me!"
Philippians 4:11-13