As the school year comes to an end, I find this month a very busy time. With the summer vacation coming, many of us are looking forward to a less hectic schedule and more down time. This all seems like a great summer plan, yet the summer seems to pass us by so furiously and in September we are asking ourselves, where has the summer gone??? We may end up feeling just as stressed and exhausted when school starts as when it ended.

So, how can we begin to slow down and ensure a memorable and rejuvenating few months?

Consider first the reasons why you may be demanding so much of yourself. What is the rush? Does everything need to be done at this moment? Can you take small steps towards achieving big goals instead of feeling the need to accomplish it all at once? The summer flies by so pick your projects sparingly so you can have time to enjoy the kids and still have down time for Mom as well.

To be more productive and efficient in reaching our goals, we need to take time for renewal. How do you fit some relief into your busy life?

Start by making a habit of deep breathing several times throughout the day. It triggers an automatic relaxation response and can be done anywhere. It keeps you focused in the present moment and reduces stress immediately.

Take frequent small breaks whether you are home or at work. Coffee breaks were designed for a reason, so use them effectively. Do not pass on your break thinking you will accomplish more. We need this down time for maximum efficiency. Be aware however, of how you spend your break, because a healthy snack, short walk, and stretch are more energy producing than a coffee and doughnut. If you are home, take time to relax outdoors with a cool drink and revel in the beauty of the sights and sounds of the summer season.

Do what you love on a regular basis. If you have a favorite sport or activity, make sure you participate in it often. An hour or two a week of doing what you love can have many positive benefits, mentally and physically. Having time for yourself during the summer gives you the stamina and energy to enjoy more fully, your time with the kids.

Ask the kids at the beginning of the summer, what are some of their favorite past times. This way you can plan ahead and your children get to feel valued by being asked. It also ensures that they get to enjoy what they really love to do. Be aware though of over scheduling your summer. Strike a balance of fun activities for all family members involved.

Make your holidays a priority. Vacations are a luxury no longer–they are a necessity. You need time to recharge and rejuvenate from the daily stressors. If you are having a difficult time taking vacation due to job demands, consider taking a day of down time when you can squeeze it in. Remember; nurture yourself first and everyone else will also benefit.

Make exercise, sleep, and good nutrition part of a healthy, rewarding summer for the whole family. There is nothing harder than reaching September and having those extra pounds to lose and having to get back into an exercise routine. With less of a regular routine for many families it is easy to get away from established healthy routines regarding meals and sleep. There is opportunity for many late nights, yummy barbequed hot dogs and huge ice creams cones to cool down on a hot day. A summer certainly wouldn’t be a summer without all these things. Keep in mind, however, more isn’t better in this case. Enjoy and savor them all when you have the opportunity but balance it out with days of early nights, corn on the cob and a frozen yogurt!!!

The most important thing to remember about the upcoming summer months is to make them memorable. You do that by being present and taking the time to stop and smell the roses. As most of you realize, life passes us by very quickly and we don’t appreciate the time we do have together as a family. Often we are so busy with schedules, yard work and disciplining that the real memories pass us by…a bike ride through a beautiful trail, the marshmallow roast on a moonlit night, the camping trip when the tent fell down and the water fight when Mom got soaked from a water balloon gone wrong.

So, this summer make sure at the top of your to do list it says…Enjoy!!! And not just the special occasions but every occasion because life really is just one big special occasion, isn’t it?

So when you are kicking up your heels in delight and someone asks you what you are celebrating you can say…Life!!!!

Balance

This month, as we celebrate Father’s Day, take an opportunity to express gratitude for the many wonderful fathers we see giving their love, support and guidance to our children on a daily basis.

Personally, in my own life, I am surrounded by them. From my own father, to my father-in-law, my husband and the many friends I am blessed to have. I see them at the supermarket, holding their child while attempting to shop; on the street riding their bikes, with their children cautiously proceeding ahead; at the gymnasium, proudly watching their daughter attempt her first cartwheel and at church gently kissing their son on the cheek.

Although mothers have typically been the nurturer in our society, fathers have a huge impact on the raising and development of our children. . A son will learn first hand from his father the balance between toughness and tenderness. Daughters look to their fathers for guidance and example on how to be treated by the men they will have in their lives. Fathers are there to give support and protect their most prized possession…family.

In the book, The Wonder Of Fathers, author C.R. Gibson writes…He goes by many names. He serves many roles. He’s a shoulder to cry on, to lean on, and to climb on. He can be quiet, boisterous, athletic, or scholarly. He is his son’s first role model and the first man his daughter will love. And no matter what else he does in his life, fatherhood will be his most important and fulfilling achievement.

For those of us who have been blessed to grow up with fathers in our lives, we are aware of the many roles they do play in our lifetime. They are a teacher from whom you learn many of your most important lessons. A coach who is always cheering for you no matter how good you are. Strong arms to pick you up when you fall or hug you for no reason at all. Fathers let you do things that mothers are to afraid to let you try. They are the voice of reason when you are attempting to solve one of life’s many problems. They are the voice of support and love when your heart has been just broken and the protector who vows no one will ever break your heart again.

This weekend take the opportunity to tell the fathers in your life just how important they are and how you appreciate them. Say a prayer for those families who do not have their fathers with them for whatever reason. Make Father’s Day a time to remember what is really important in this lifetime and when you nurture each other, everyone benefits.

To my father, father-in-law, and my husband (who is one of the finest examples of a father I know), HAPPY FATHER’S DAY. All of you play such an important role in my life and I wouldn’t be the same person without each of you in it.

Family