There's so much we planned to do or places we wanted to go, but we didn't yet!That's okay. Some of it is dreaming. We always have more ideas for great places to go or projects to undertake each summer than there are weekends in a summer. Just make a habit of being clear what is an idea and what is a plan, both for yourself and the kids. If you brainstormed 37 great weekend getaways, you wouldn't kick yourself for not making it to all of them in a 3 month period. If you brainstorm 3 field trips, it's okay if you only made it on one. You don't want to put yourself or the kids through the stress of feeling obligated to follow through with every idea and whim that is dreamt up. Take a real look at your calendar and how many days are left, and what's written on them. Do you want to use the last of your summer as a mad-rush filled with activity? Great, go for it! Just be reasonable to plan, budget, and rest. Is there a lot on the calendar already (or already passed) and you want nothing more than to leave it open for the opportunity to relax or make spontaneous plans? That's okay, too. Don't regret what hasn't been done, just be realistic and thoughtful with what's left. |
Are the kids ready to transition to more structured days? Am I? Shouldn't I be easing in more routine now?
Did we get all the supplies we're going to need?
Are the decisions we made about curriculum and/or activities the wisest for the situation and children?
Woah.... where did THAT come from? Isn't this an anxiety post that's supposed to be a feel-good read about how "I really CAN handle this time of year"??? This is a reality post about life. Decisions that shape the life of your child (or other people's children) should be prayed over. Do you know these kids' hearts? Their futures? God does. Consult Him. If you've made decisions already without consulting the Lord, that doesn't mean you need to scrap everything and start all over again. It means you need to have some quiet time and search your heart.
God, was I so busy and so anxious because I am trying to do this all on my own strength and by my own wisdom? Father, I am sorry; please, forgive me. I know that man can make plans, but You are the One who establishes and directs our paths (Proverbs 16:9). I should have consulted you first. No matter how good, or how off course my plans are, I desire that Your purpose prevails in my life (Proverbs 19:21). Please grant me wisdom, Lord, and a teachable spirit, that I will be willing to make adjustments according to Your leading. I desire to bring You glory with my decisions and I know that no matter how this fall and the following months turn out, You will be working all things for my good because I love You. (Romans 8:28).
In Jesus Name, Amen.
Will I look back at this time period and kick myself for doing something wrong or not doing enough?
Remember you are never alone and are cherished deeply by the Creator God of the Universe Who knows all things, is all-powerful, and is present everywhere.
Remember this verse, which is challenging to put into practice, but comforting like nothing else: