Our calendars teach us that the end of the year is in December and we start anew in January. But now being the parent of a school-ager, our rythmns are winding down in June and gearing back up in September.
Winding down actually starts at the end of April when I start thinking about what Jackson will do during the summer. The last couple of years, I've paired up with the mother of one of Jackson's best buds and we find some activities our boys can do together. We've learned that it doesn't really matter "what" they are doing, but that they are doing it together. I learned last year, that my boy needs some down time, he needs to be able to veg at home, to not be "scheduled". I also learned last year that summer comes and goes in the blink of an eye, and if we want to camp and go to the beach, then I have to plan it - it won't just happen spur of the moment.
This year, I'm anxious about the 10 weeks of summer. Jackson fell in love with school this year. He idolizes his amazing teacher, loves seeing his friends everyday, but most importantly loves to read, enjoys math and is challenged by writing. During winter and spring break, he was asking to go back to school. In 10 weeks I think he'll be more than ready to be reunited with his love in September (we actually start school the last day of August). And of course - I'm concerned he'll forget everything he learned this year and want to help ensure we do take one step forward, two steps back.
This year, I'm struggling with making it all come together. Or more specifically sitting down and actually scheduling the days and weeks. Putting together the balance of activities and down time, family fun time and scholastic review time. And of course I reflect on how Mike is oblivious to all of this. He doesn't find the activities, he likely won't juggle picking up from morning soccer camp and transporting to afternoon baseball camp, with somehow sneaking in a lunch on the drive between the two.
This year, I'm struck with how I've already registered Jackson for fall soccer, how as 4th of July approaches Target will put their back to school supplies on display. So while the calendar says wind down, I'm already thinking about gearing up.
This year, I'm thankful. I'm trying to remind myself of that more frequently. I'm thankful that Jackson loves school and will miss it during the summer. I'm thankful he can hang out with his best buddy, I'm thankful he gets to go explore the city and country at camps, I'm thankful we get to go to the beach and camping. I'm thankful that I get to schedule, and juggle and contemplate and plan. Rhythms are good, winding down and gearing up.
Speaking of winding down, last three games of baseball in the next 5 days. Thankful that Mike gets to participate with Jackson, be there with him and for him.
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