A Gentle Reminder

Wow, time flies when you are busy and can't grab a moment to reflect about what's been going on. Summer time brings a slower pace, but the lack of structure takes getting used to, for the kids, especially. I was wondering why, after only a week and a half into the summer break, I've been hearing, "I'm bored...." Between morning routines, baby-sitter's, school, homework, young people's lives are rather regimented. Don't get me wrong, the routines are necessary, but it takes a toll on children when that structure vanishes for July and August. We're settling into our groove though, and we have lots of great things planned. I can't wait to explore new Provincial Parks, browse local museums and spend lazy afternoons reading in the shade of the backyard trees.

I have to share a funny summer story. My youngest, who feels the lack of structure the most, was following me EVERYWHERE today. I tripped over him countless times, backed into him once or twice and the entire time he kept up a steady stream of chatter. While changing kitty litter in the basement, I was reaching the end of my fairly extensive supply of patience. He was nattering on and on about something so bizarre and I had just stepped on a piece of Lego that he had dropped while he was chatting; I came very close to loosing it. But, I turned around and there he was in his white undies, buzz cut, little round glasses and a bow on his head that he had plucked from the Christmas wrapping. He grins up at me and declares, "Look Mommy, I'm a gift!" Truer words have not been spoken. He is my gift, even when he breaks a window pane, interrupts continuously and sleepwalks nightly. We're going to have a great summer, my kids and I. Stay tuned for the details.