When my kids were really small I remember counting the days until summer was over. It’s entirely possible that I made paper chains and tore one off every morning with my cup of coffee. 
This photo on the right is an oldy but a goody from 2007. It was taken by my husband. You can tell by the 14ft of space above my head.
This is my reaction after I dropped off kid #4 at school. This is the second I realized all four would be at school five days a week. Yes, this was the moment.
Don’t you judge me.
But, as my four got a little older I began enjoying summer a lot more. When diapers are no longer a part of the equation, summers are a pretty fantastic thing.
Back to school has become a “January” of sorts for me. It’s a beginning, a re-set of the year. All of my lazy summer rituals like not cooking or cleaning the house –or taking a shower on a regular basis are surprisingly important again.
Being productive is important again.
I think it’s always pretty great to try to better myself where I’ve messed up before. Having four kids has been like the best thing ever. My last two kids have a much better mom. So, if you’re looking for a few good habits to pick up with your back to schooler– I’ve included a few of my favorites below.
Back To School Habits of a Great Mom
- Choose a scripture verse for the year. Last year ours was Matthew 5:14-16. This year I chose 1 Peter 2:9-10. My kids are teenagers now so they can memorize more than “God Loves You.” I expect more from them than that.
- Devotion before school. It doesn’t have to be seminary-degree-worthy. Seriously, just talk about Jesus. that’s all. End of story. If you want to dig a little deeper then purchase as kids devotion book. If your kids are older have them read out loud the Proverb or Psalm of the day.
- Pray for your children. God is very clear in His word that prayer needs to be a part of our holy relationship with Him. Don’t you enjoy talking with your kids? I had my kids outline their hands on paper, you know, like we make our kids do every Thanksgiving when we make turkeys…they wrote their names in the palm and I lay my hand in theirs to pray for them daily now. (I explain more about this in my newsletter this week.)
It’s not just a new school year. Consider this a new year for you, too. What areas in your life need to be tweaked? What new habits can you start? A great mom isn’t a perfect mom–a great mom is great because she wants to be better.
What are some of your back to school traditions? Anything new you’ve decided to do this year?
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