With school complete, soccer season over, and all my children at home, my summer has arrived. Though I have big plans for decluttering, reorganizing, and cleaning my house, I am looking forward to spending time wisely with my children.
Yesterday, we hung out most of the day downstairs together. As we played tea party, my baby crawled all over me while my older daughter took note how I played. Later, my older daughter was mimicking my play with her. My little ones are watching and learning. When I had the chance to watch and learn about them, I took it. While folding laundry, I watched my older children play Wii games. As my son helped my older daughter win her games, he worked to improve. I’m thankful my son is willing to learn and that I am able to assist and observe along the way.
With a change in schedule from school routine to summer routine, I am regrouping. This year has been full of adjustments. From trips to school, programs, parties, soccer, and family activities, I am ready for a break. After being away from home so much during May, I am playing catch up. Though the laundry is done and the kitchen cleaned, my To Do list is far from complete. Since the laundry, dishes, menus, etc. will always be there, I must keep reminding myself that my kids will not be young for long. As I choose to use my time wisely, I must keep my priorities in check. Ultimately, my children are my responsibility, and they need more than clean clothes and food. I don’t want to lose this time with my kids, so my goal this summer is to get to know my kids by spending lots of time with them.
Knowing that I am apt to fail, I plan now to spend that time analyzing my inabilities, praying for wisdom, and planning time together. To help me stay on track, I will be scheduling time with each child each day. During these special times, I hope to reach my goal of knowing my children.