A Home Run Summer
June 2022
School is officially “out” for summer break! Many of us find we have more free time in our schedules and with our kids. It’s a good thing, mamas!
How do we make this beautiful summer, a “home run” summer? I had this idea come to me as I was listening to a podcast recently. They were discussing how to have a “fun and gospel-centered summer”. That idea definitely sparked interest in me! I’m always looking for ways to better use my time. And for it to be more God-glorifying. I’m going to link it here for you to listen as well. When you sign up for free podcast resources, the Daily Grace Co will send you a free printable that guides you through planning out your summer according to your goals.
I found it extremely helpful as I was listing out my plans and activities for the next couple months. The last thing I want is for it to slip by and I didn’t maximize it.
I’m going to share my personal summer goal list with you. I have this pinned up by the calendar in our kitchen. Here’s what’s on it:
Memorize + practice 5 Bible verses (for our older kids)
Reading + phonogram practice (for our 5 and 6 year old)
Finish up our current math book (just a few lessons left!) (our 5 and 6 year old)
Potty training (for my 3 year old)
Nature journaling: each of my kids have a notebook that they take outside to draw different things they find- like a robin’s egg and nest, bugs, hummingbirds, butterflies and different kinds of leaves
At the bottom of my summer list I have written: “Slow down to soak in all the sweet moments + sunshine. Embrace joy + light-heartedness. Love God by showing love to other people.”
As a mom, I appreciate it when I’m able to read articles or posts and there’s a couple clear and practical messages in it. So here are a few ideas to help you thrive as a mama this summer.
Get down on your child’s level and actively listen.
A lot of us have “extra” unhurried time with our kids, and so if you usually find yourself just trying to get to the point of what you kids is saying, relax and let them talk on their own speed. I find that I actually like hearing them communicate and often chuckle at how they come to certain conclusions. It increases JOY in your day.
2. Be less rushed to “produce” things with your kids.
Create time for free play and outdoor enjoyment. If you homeschool and it’s year round (I personally do), take a few steps back. We still have some school time, but it’s much less and it’s spread around the day, depending on what activities are going on.
3. Make the simple memories.
Mamas, get out there and PLAY. I never regret joining in a chalk-drawing session with my kids. This cliché is so true, but we don’t get the time back. I’m preaching to myself when I say this: set aside the housework and go outside. You need it too, mama.
4. Set a simple schedule or routine.
Someone told me to type it out and stick it on a fridge or calendar. Just do something that works for you and so you can easily know what’s going on.
5. Add in a “special” seasonal activity each week.
This could be visiting a park or building a campfire. Just make it a priority to enjoy things that you can’t do for most of the year. (if you live in the mid-west like me, haha)
6. Create a family “bucket list.
Gather your whole family and each put something on the list. Silly and crazy are allowed!
I have another podcast recommendation for you, if you have older kids. It’s from Your Morning Basket, with Pam Barnhill. She has created a summer reading and morning time that sounds absolutely amazing! It encourages growth in reading during the summer break, and I can’t wait to use it in the future with my kids. She includes free resources with this podcast to go along with her summer reading program! Snag them, mamas!
I also wanted to share a few links to some summer fun items for kids. Send me your favs!
Lastly, I’m leaving you with what I’m currently reading. Would highly recommend the first one, as I just finished it yesterday. Powerful book. I am loving the others too! Check them out!
Finding the Hero in Your Husband
