Summer

...Well, its been a while since I have posted anything. Its just been too busy around here! Now its summer. And my oh my, Im not sure if things are going to slow down much.

Around this time last year I thought to myself "What in the world will I be doing with four kids home all day?" I think its important to have a relaxing fun-filled summer- but I want it to be purposeful as well. (Ephesians 5:15-16 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.)

Last year I concluded on a few pointers- they worked so well- I am doing it again this summer. Let me share, and maybe you might glean from, or even tip in and share some of your grand summer ideas.

As I started to plan for the upcoming summer I FIRST, and foremost, PRAYED. I wrote out what are some of the needs of my children (physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, academically) Then I set a few goals and wrote out a few mission statements for each child. Kayla and Emily are old enough to partake in this too. (They wrote out some of the things they want to do this summer, etc)

Then we ORDERED OUR SUMMER, by writing out on the calendar some vacation plans, and weekly schedules according to our goals and needs. So this summer, everyday in the weekday has a theme.
Monday-swim day at the pool, house cleanup.
Tuesday-Adventure Day (zoo, museum, water parks)
Wednesday-Schooling (Reiterating things learned last year at school- and strengthening in these subjects for the next year in a FUN ocean/beach theme)
Thursday-Kids Kingdom-summer--mothers day out, Friend Day.
Friday- Cook and/or Art Day- where we make something by art or cook and give it away to someone of choice. Sort of an outreach experience.

We also have a daily schedule where we do consistent things, like quiet times, breakfast, playtime, movies-computer, outside, reading (check your local Summer Book clubs- great incentives!), lunch, naps, snack, games, etc. Schedules are a must around here but they are also flexible.

IMPORTANTS!
~In order to be a good mommy all day- I must get some alone time in the mornings. Its my goal to get up, spend some quiet time with the Lord (so I may walk in the fruit of the spirit) and then I go for a morning exercise which really does give me more energy.
~I make it a goal to try to get some ONE ON ONE time with each kid- even if its at least for 30 minutes at two different times. Thats when I work on loving, encouraging, building up each child considering each of their love languages.
~Family getaways are always a good time to.. getaway and focus on eachother and fun. I encourage you to plan at least one- to camp, or stay at a family members out of town to visit their local zoo, or even take a day trip somewhere.

Im sure there is more I could mention, but these things here for sure are the most important. May you all have the best summer!

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or leave any of your very own summer ideas that work for you and your family!