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Find out how I think swimming and birth are related

For the last few months I have been watching my children learn to swim.  As I sat on the side of the pool, I was struck by the thought that learning to swim can be similar in a lot of ways to labor and birth.

The idea of labor and birth can feel very scary for some, and no big deal for others, much like swimming. With swimming the level of comfort can depend one where you are swimming, who you are with, and your surroundings.  Everyone has a style that is unique to them.  There are natural swimmers (one might say that they are nearly fish themselves, it comes so easily).  Some of us struggle along, barely able to manage the doggie-paddle.  If we are in the water, our movements should become rhythmic and eventually get us from point A to point B.

Photo: One of Naomi’s first bathing suits.

I have been thinking this week regarding our plans for Summer.

My goals this year are to do better about providing unplugged activities for my kids. It is very easy in today’s world to get distracted and simply let the electronic’s babysit while the adults also get things done.

Last year I felt really great about the intentional time that I was able to spend with my kids, you can read about some of our excursions in my blog about traveling with kids, and family time. 

How organized is your home?

My husband and I have struggled for the past 10 years with a routine and organization that works in our home. We have tried everything from hand-written to do lists, online apps, sticky notes, and even hand drawn organizational diagrams.

Each time we tried again, our frustration with ourselves renewed; we tried to focus on the ideal of a better way.  Each and every time we failed.  Sometimes, it would work for a day.  Occasionally, it would work for nearly two weeks.  In spite of our best intentions, we could never create the routines or habits needed for continued success.  Something wouldn’t get written down, not checked off out list,  or a kid would get sick.  Anything and everything would side-track us and derail our progress.

This spring break I will have the opportunity to be more family focused and spend more quality time with my kids. I am so thankful for the opportunities that God has brought into my life that has opened this new door.

If you have time this week, give me a call, maybe you can join me and my kids for a quick hike, a bite of ice cream or we can join you!

How are you spending your spring break with your family?