The Seventh Inning Stretch - Page 5
© Joan Archer
I keep a date book so that I know who is supposed to be where, and when, This helps now that we are branching out more, and Jasper is going to more homeschool related classes.Our big guys have also started having to be places, and my Beloved has his Union meetings and really important meetings involving a certain eight-point buck. It helps to note the week's activities on the family chalkboard, so everyone knows where everyone else is supposed to be, and generally what is going on with the family. It does help improve communication, as well as cooperation. I have had appointments on Saturdays, and one of the older guys will volunteer to watch Tor for me. This is a real stress-buster, because not only do I have someone reliable to watch him, I am also relieved that they will see it and volunteer, all by themselves. Half of stress relief is communication.
If you feel too bogged-down with school and all, try taking a free week off. The world won't end, I promise. Your children will thank you for it, because if you feel that way, just imagine what it (and you) are like for them. If you just can't get back on schedule, reconsider your choice of lessons, homeschooling, etc. Consult your doctor, in case you might have a bit of depression, which happens. Those of us who are female are oftem in the position of being subject to the whims of our bodies, the least of which is PMS. Hormonal fluctuations are part of our make-up, nothing to be ashamed of, and sometimes they need to be dealt with. It is good for your children to have an example of when to say "Uncle" and call in the reserves.
I have also let go of a lot of unimportant stuff, like having to study actual material related to a subject. For example, this year we are studying (the short version) of the American Indian history. Some days, we do crafts like making Totem Poles out of da-da's (paper towel roll cores) and reading traditional American Indian stories. Jasper does infer some things about the cultures from these stories and crafts, but I focus on the fun side of it more than the heavily educational part of it. He enjoys learning more this year, I think, that any other year we've had.
When I look all of these things over, I think maybe I am working harder than ever, keeping all the notes and such, but actually it feels like I am doing much less, and with twelve times the general results. My beloved has always carried the motto, "Work smarter, not harder" and I am a true believer. Remember, even though people who don't have as much to do as you do (the ones who can excercise or do anything on a regular schedule) will tell you to take better care of yourself so that you can take better care of your family (hahahaha) it is actually true. So do it!
