The Gift of Time

Making candles

With the craziness of our American culture, everyone is running here and there.  Do you  feel the pressure to enroll your kids in another program, another class, another team?  We do too. However, a few years ago we felt the need to step back from the programs to just enjoy being together as a family, enjoying various activities together.  We wanted to focus on the most important things in life.  It has given us time.  Can you imagine?  Time!

Our bird watcher and catcher.

Elena with friends that came to perform the play she wrote.

This time has given our children the opportunity to make up their own events and activities.  I have been amazed as they formed their own sports teams, written their own plays and puppet shows, had their own art and music shows, and performed their own magic and circus acts.  

This time has allowed them to read, play music, and enjoy nature.

This time has strengthened our family relationships and allowed time for Michael to lead in teaching the Bible and music lessons.  Investing in their futures helps them to feel loved and safe.  The best program or team cannot replace the family.

It is not always easy or fun.  Sometimes, when I'm tired and the kids are loud, I want them to grow up.  I need to step back and remember that these years are precious.  

Elena showing her dad the garden she planted.

clowns after the circus act

scaling a fish to eat

Blane caught his first fish this spring.

Time is a precious gift.