Are you a mom who looks forward to summer? Or, are you one that dreads it?
Personally, I look forward to it! No homework, no trying to fit in dinner around after school activities, no short play dates. I feel so free! That is until about two weeks in. After we’ve lived in our pajamas and used up all of our bubble juice. Then reality sets in.
But, this summer is going to be different, because I am a firm believer in setting ourselves up for success — a little preparation on the front in paves the way {hopefully} for success. A few trips to Target and the Dollar Store can help me get all the supplies I need for a successful summer. Paper, pens, markers, bubbles, potting soil, paint, chalk. I am going to try to think outside the box for some creative backyard fun ideas.
This summer I really want to pull my kids back in a little.
This is a time where I can pour into them. I can love them. I can speak truth and life into them. With all that they take in through the school year, I feel that this is a perfect time to just love them well.
The Lord has given me these sweet children. They are my responsibility. I’m not going to run around crazy this summer and miss out on them. Yes, it would be easier to put them in every camp and activity. But, the Lord specifically tells us to train them.
Proverbs 22:6 AMP
Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it.
I love how the Amplified version says this verse: “And keeping with his individual gift or bent.” Man, this one is summer note-card worthy!
Take Time for Memory Making!
I encourage you to take some time this summer to have sweet talks on the back porch. Find a good swing. Go fishing. Think of ways to spend some important one-on-one time with your kids to train them. Find their individual gifts. Cultivate them. Talk about how they can use those in the year to come.
And don’t forget the importance of using yourself as an example. Tell them your past (age appropriate of course). Tell them ways you made it through. Let them know that you were not perfect. Show them how the Lord has molded you and shaped you. Tell them your individual gifts.
Don’t let this summer fly by and think, “Wow, did I take the time to impact my kids?”
- You could memorize verses together.
- You could start journaling.
- You could do morning Bible studies.
The possibilities are endless.
Of course, I know my summer may not be butterflies and roses, but with a little preparation and purpose it can be a very sweet, memory-filled time.
Another thing to remember in all of this is YOU! Don’t forget to take time for yourself. As you know, we as parents have to be filled up to pour out to our children. Make sure you are “Setting yourself up for Success” as well.
Spend some time doing things you enjoy. Go for a run. Read a book. Do a women’s Bible study.
Use this time as a refreshment for the whole family.
I pray that you will have a summer filled with joy, love, laughter, and love!
For more ideas for planning a creative, intentional summer, click here.
This summer is an interesting one for me….my oldest starts her senior year in the fall, turns 18 in December then graduates next June. This could potentially be my last summer with her at home. On the other end of the spectrum, my youngest turns one at the end of July. This will be his first summer where he and his four siblings will all be able to enjoy summer activities like swimming, playing outside, etc. I pray I’ll be able to slow down and enjoy the time with all five of them home. I tend to focus too much on how my schedule gets turned upside down when the older kids aren’t in school, but this is a great reminder to keep my focus where it should be. Happy summer, everyone!