Recharge Your Batteries

Let’s face it: homeschool moms expend a lot of energy. We’re not only the chief cooks and bottle washers, but we’re also the main teachers and guidance counselors for our children. And then, our hubbies like for us to reserve a little energy for them, too. Not to mention the fact that many homeschool moms also work-at-home (or even away from home) and volunteer at churches and other organizations. No wonder we often feel as if our batteries are dead! We’re expected to act and last like the Energizer Bunny on a dollar store charge.

So, what do we do about it? When, in our insanely overcrowded schedules and commitments, can we find time to recharge our batteries? Summer is the perfect time for homeschool moms to recoup. Some of us completely shut down our homeschools for the season (except for that field trip disguised as a vacation and the occasional worksheet or required book), while some of us keep going with the core subjects. Whatever schedule we follow, summer still tends to have slower, lighter expectations. Here are some ideas to get us started recharging our batteries:

·         Float in a pool

·         Catch fireflies in a jar with your kids

·         Pack a picnic lunch and relax near a playground while your kids do the monkey bars

·         Spend time at your favorite destination (beach, lake, mountains, state park, etc.)

·         Sleep in late a few times

·         Rent your favorite adult movie (And I don’t mean R-rated! I mean non-Sesame Street.)

·         Read your favorite book again

·         Journal about homeschooling highlights

·         Brainstorm with your hubby or other homeschooling friends how to improve this coming year, even if you had a good year

·         Sign your kids up for the free activities at your local library and spend that time browsing for new books

·         Set aside some girlfriend time and leave the kids home with your hubby or a responsible teenager (your own or a babysitter)

·         Soak up some sun (properly sunblocked and hatted, of course)

·         Soak up some Son—spend extra time reading Scriptures, praying, praising, and listening for God’s encouragement and direction           

I don’t know about you, but I’m solar powered. Sunshine makes me happy and energized! SON time is even more important. Add in a few of the ideas listed above to some quality solar time (both kinds) and your inner Energizer Bunny will be ready for the new school year come September.