Summer---A Whole Different Animal

Go Karts at the lake.  No, Jillian didnt drive!

Isn't it true? Summer IS a whole differnt animal in so many ways. On the one hand, summer offers great warm weather and many fun activities we don't usually have time for. On the other hand, every routine normally established for the kiddos or ourselves go "bye bye." Even with the best of intentions, it just seems impossible to keep much structure. This in't good, isn't bad....just a whole different animal until school begins again.
To me, early summer feels like what a painter must experience when they get a clean new canvas. Ahhhh...the possibilities! In reflecting on the "work of art" I hope to create this summer, I find a recurrent theme. Be CONTENT in the moment. Enjoy PEACE in the moment. Slow down so I don't MISS the moment. You get the picture! Whether it's folding the increasing amount of laundry or checking something off of our summer wish list, I pray for peace and appreciation for each and every summer moment with my family and friends. (By the way, I'm not really organized enough to have actually written a summer wish list, but there are a few goals floating around in my head!)
I am happy to report that I, shockingly (!), have found many serene moments lately, nestled amidst my usual flurry of activity of trying too many new recipes, struggling with time management, and failing to reign in my over-active brainwaves. Thanks to some beautiful friends who remind me to slow down, friends and family who model a prayerful life, and thanks to a wonderful husband who always makes time to play with the kids, I am surrounded by many role models on this attempt to enjoy the moment. In keeping with the "summer is a whole different animal theme," I've learned that it's a jungle out there! Surround yourself with positive allies! :)
If any of your serene moments involve a giant bowl of chips and some freshly made salsa, you know where to find me!

Peace to you,
Erin
P.S. I know, I know...it doesn't seem to match up, does it? I'm talking about slowing down, yet I'm hoping to make you lots of salsa. Believe it or not, I kindof count the Salsa Mama gig as "down time" in a strange sort of way. I love doing this for many reasons, but at the top of the list is getting to witness your giving hearts (to current charity) and hearing about your events with friends/family. Ending on a highly sappy but totally sincere note...feeding you feeds me too. :)