Friendship in the motherhood years can be challenging. Busy schedules, needy kids, and “Mom Brain” can all contribute to our ability to connect or stay in touch with others.

But don’t assume all roads lead to Destination Disaster. By planning and keeping expectations in check, a road trip can be a sure route to cherished family memories.

Homeschooling is a job. As a homeschool mom, I am responsible for teaching our children. And yes, we can take a break day here and there, but what if I can still have my children learn on “those days”? Then “those days” can be a successful day.

Now, the only journal I keep is a small, 5-year daily calendar with about 4 tiny lines for each day.  You only have space for one single memory per day.  I bought this calendar when my twins were born four years ago, and I have not kept up very well until this year. 

If you are like me, then you genuinely like spending summertime with your kids. Most of the time. Just not all of the time. But there’s still a lot of daylight between now and that first school bell, moms. So here are some tips to keep your cool during the stresses of summer:

My son, like most young kids, is focused on a very specific interest. For some kids, it’s dinosaurs, dolls, or sports, but for my oldest, it is construction. Trucks – everything trucks. It is an obsession.

So even though my 5-year-old can’t read on his own yet, he is ready for lengthier picture books and beginning chapter books.  I’ll start with some picture book suggestions and then break up chapter books into a couple of categories.

 From here on out, I am challenging myself to see myself the way my child sees me, and to be the person that my second thought believes I am. And, it cannot stop with me – I challenge you to do the same.  

So I challenge you this summer to set some goals.  And to make it more fun, I’m framing them into something I’m calling the 1000 – 100 – 10 challenge! 

Let's start having fun by adventuring this year! Taking adventures can pull us out of our comfort zones and stretch our learning.