Perspective: Yes, it’s back to school time! Oh no, it’s back to school time!
Isn’t that the truth? No sooner do we celebrate the beginning of this new season when we are suddenly reminded of what back-to-school entails. Summer vacations are over, and we pick up the pace as we embrace the busyness of the school year. After-school activities, car pools, school events and so much more begin to dictate how we spend our time. Experienced moms start looking at their calendars—anticipating and planning—with eyes on end of year holidays. Some of you reading this post are tracking with me—your heart rate is beating to the rhythm of what you too know is coming.
Whew! I’m tired just thinking about it. My season of raising a family is over. As a Mima, I help from time to time with my grandkids, shuttling them to/from activities. Happy to do so. Also, happy to send them home. Don’t judge. If you are a grandparent, you know what I’m talking about.
Looking back on the school years, I consider what I might have done better. Perfection was not achieved—although a constant goal for me as a young mom. Lessons learned, wisdom demands I share them with you. I invite you to consider including some Back to You time in your scheduling.
Just a few suggestions…
Start Your Day
Set the alarm—get up at least 15 – 30 minutes before the house wakes up. Take that time for you. It’s your time to spend with the Lord, with your thoughts, to listen to music, to journal… whatever fills you with peace.
I didn’t. Instead I squeezed as much time out of my night’s sleep as I could and then turned into a crazy person, rushing my son out of the house at the last possible minute. Consumed by the guilt of words exchanged, each day I vowed I would be better—but wasn’t really. Truth be told, I was just repeating what my mother modeled for me as I was growing up. Didn’t see it then. I see it now.
Family Quality Time
Quality time with your family is as much for you as it is for them. Use every opportunity to share activities with your children—make your time count. Share breakfast together before everyone bolts out the door. Have sit down family dinners as often as your schedule permits. Step away from technology. Practice the art of listening—make that time a safe space for love and acceptance.
Good night kisses and prayers—sweet balm that slows us down and prepares us for a night of rest.
BeYOUtiful
Date yourself! Make the time to pamper yourself and your surroundings.
Dress for your special time. This means different things to each of us. For some it may mean a comfy pair of yoga pants with cool wooly socks and a soft top. Others may have a more glamorous look in mind.
In my world, there is always music playing. I’m wearing comfy clothes and wrapped in my favorite afghan. Yes, even in Florida. Air is turned down, so I can snuggle with my blankie. The air is filled with the scent of my favorite candle of the season or perhaps I’m diffusing essential oils. I’ll be reading, journaling or just allowing my thoughts to meander. Admittedly I am getting better at ignoring social media—not totally there yet.
I have friends that love their bath time… candles, music, and bubbles relax them. And of course, there’s always Hallmark to fan the flame of happily-ever-after.
Back to You Time
Why not? Some of you are rattling off all the reasons why my suggestions are impossible. I was that person. My hope for you is that you don’t have to wait until your senior years to see the wisdom in my words.
Others have totally embraced my suggestions and are imagining themselves in those spaces I described. In fact, your creative juices are flowing, and you have some ideas of your own to try out.
I encourage you to move yourself up your priority list. It’s about self-love and obedience. In Mark 12:31 (MSG), Jesus commanded, “Love others as well as you love yourself…”
Maggie Sabatier-Smith
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