Summer Plans

So now that we have less than a week of school left I've started to think more about what kind of summer I want our household to have. I admit, it is kind of a pointless project as all the great ideas I have usually last about a week or maybe two if I'm lucky. My day doesn't change too much. I still get up early so I can be showered and dressed when the kids I babysit show up.

This year will be a little different. My son has taken on a couple of paper routes, so he gets to be up bright and early every day. My oldest daughter is trying to find a summer job, so who knows what her schedule will be like. The youngest is still a carefree kid.

I used to come up with worksheets to keep their minds active, fun craft activities, and hobbies they could develop. Usually, those plans didn't last long and we relax into a couple of months free of routine. Many of the mothers I know persist in these types of things and have all sorts of fun over the summer months. I've reached the point where I feel like we've had a pretty good summer if the kids manage to get sunscreen on most days, eat a balanced diet, and don't lay around the house acting bored.

There are things we'd like to accomplish. The girls have expressed interest in doing some sewing. They are both capable of using a sewing machine and just need a little guidance. Just a few projects will keep them busy most of the summer. My dad is trying to talk my son into getting his ham radio license. I think it's a great idea. He likes to learn and has a mind like a sponge, so he should be able to pick up the knowledge pretty fast.My dad and both of my brothers have theirs and really enjoy the hobby.

As for me, I need to write. It has been months since I've been able to accomplish anything worth talking about. Many writers say you do what you have to do and keep whatever hours you need to in order to make it work. Believe me, I've tried. I've done a lot of typing in my sleep - none of it worth keeping. So even though I've tried getting up before everyone or staying up later than every one, it's not very effective since. I usually operate on six hours of sleep a night. Cutting that back to fit in a little writing leaves me acting like a zombie.

The more relaxed schedule of summer allows me more writing time and I lean a little on my kids to help out with the kids who come to our house every day. With two months ahead of me, I may actually finish the book I'm working on. Now that would make for a great summer.