How is your summer going? Do you feel like you are just getting started, like you're in the lazy, hazy days, or like time is running out? Whether your kids go back to school in two weeks, or in two months, let's take a minute to evaluate where our relationships with our children are, and how you might be able to improve them.
First, take a deep breath. Realize that today might be over, but hopefully God will bless you with tomorrow. I know parenting is hard, but the rewards can be SO GREAT!
So here is your next step... pray! Ask God to show you where and how to connect with your kids. I know, at times, I get so busy with the list of things we're wanting to do, that we forget the important part of just hanging out together.
This is 4-H season in our family. That means a lot of deadlines, and sometimes, not the best of attitudes as we all feel stretched during judging week. That makes it even more important for us to spend some quality time together.
What is the most stressful part of your summer? Make sure you find a way to re-connect as a family when it is over.
For us, it's a few days of 'nothing-much.' This summer we have some loose plans for after the 4-H fair. But mostly, it's just spending time together, without a lot of expectations.
When the girls wander off to read a book, I might work on some lesson plans...or I might go out to the garden. I find the important thing is that they know I can and will stop what I'm doing to talk with them.
Be available for your kids. I know, it's not always convenient, but it's worth it!
God can grant you wisdom, He is waiting for you to ask.
In the meantime, whether you're picking green beans or buying back-to-school supplies, show your kids that you love them. Tell them...even if they're teenagers!
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