Well, we are in the middle of summer months and I just love summer!!!

I remember like it was yesterday my daughter Tiffany being out of school and how our routine would drastically change to sleeping in late, summer picnics, going to the beach, museums and of course long vacations. Wow! I also remember how exhausted I was trying to fit all kinds of fun things into our schedule, and how cranky I would sometimes get.

So if you’re a mom I want you to sit with me and read this blog as a reminder to take time to relax as a family this summer. I give you permission to have a lazy summer…there is still time!

I don’t want you to miss out on raising your children because of hurried crazy schedules. Don’t be rushed to “manage your time” while trying to fit in too much.

So how does a mom make the decision when to say “yes” and when to say “no” to various activities this summer? Pray over each opportunity and then ask yourself these hard questions:

*First:  Would this activity build my home or tear it down? If you are considering a personal commitment, ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I have time to spend alone with God in intimate fellowship each day?
2. Do I have time to nurture my marriage and keep my husband my priority
3. Am I allowing enough time for each child to experience mother-presence and mother-comfort in the home?

*Second: Can I/we do this activity out of needs or wants or for the good of our family? Will this activity make us so over – committed that I cannot be an effective mother/wife at home?

*Third:     Am I saying “yes” to activities without having a conversation with my husband about our families needs? If you are both in agreement there could be less stress in your home and he will be more committed to do it for the family. If you’re a single mom, ask a trusted family member or friend to help you evaluate and make a decision.

Here are some summer fun relaxing tips:

Break the routine! Surprise the kids with a “PJ Day” were you spend the day playing games and watching movies in your pajamas or “backwards day” where you start with dinner and end with breakfast.

Let the kids see you relax. Sit on the sofa and read a book or magazine (yes, just for you! Letting kids see you read encourages them to enjoy reading, too). Explore your hobbies, such as baking or gardening, and invite the kids to help you. Take time to play board games together.

Explore locally. Visit a new park or beach. For tons of fun local ideas, subscribe to a local blog it with include weekly listings for free and activities.

Here is a fun acrostic to keep you from a crazy summer from my friend Michelle Wood:

S = SUN.                Enjoy the beach, pool, lake, water balloon fights, etc.

U= UNITE.           With other moms take turns watching each others kids so you can have a date night or me time.

M=MEMORIES. Be sure to take lots of pictures!

M=MUSIC.           Take advantage of free summer concerts at local parks and lakes.

E=ENJOY.             Take this time to have fun with your kids.

R=REST.               Enjoy the lazy days, and sleep while you can. September will be back before you know it!

So this summer when your are tempted to get yourself or your family involved in some energy-draining, time-consuming activities that will only increase the distance between you and your precious children, stop and think of the unspoken message it will convey and choose to slow down and enjoy the summer.

Blessings,

Sandra