After School Starts, What's A Mom To Do?

You're new in town and it's taken all your energy to settle in and get your children back to school. Some of you might even feel worn-out already and the busy fall season isn't even here yet. What can you do to re-energize and refresh your spirit?

Here are few simple tips that will make a difference in your day--and in you!

Be Good To Yourself
Why not stay in your pjays one entire morning and let your body relax and unwind. No agenda, no schedule, just you and a good cup of coffee or tea!

Take Care Of Yourself
Now is the time for some self-care. You might need a haircut by now! Take a long bubble bath for those tired muscles. Splurge and get a manicure or a pedicure. (Shop around for good prices!)

Stop And Smell The Flowers
Practice breathing deeply and slowly. Take a long walk and breath in the presence of God and breath out your worries. Take time to stop along the way to look up and look around at the magnificence of God's world.

Meet The Neighbors
We don't know if they are shy or just too busy but neighbors aren't always the first to say hello. Bake some cookies and knock on your neighbor's door to say hello.

Lose Yourself In Your Favorite Bookstore or Library
Spend time browsing and reading your favorite books and magazines. Hours can slip by without you knowing and you leave feeling mentally refreshed and renewed.

Window-Shop and Wander In
Retail therapy does wonders! Sometimes just wandering around your favorite stores can give you decorating ideas or help you see what's going to be 'in' for the next season. You don't always have to buy it--you can just borrow the idea!

Get Physical
Walk around or jump up and down--whatever form of exercise suits you, go for it!

Sign Up
Select one activity that will get you out of the house. Join a book group at your local book store; join a beginner yoga or kick-boxing class; volunteer at your child's school; volunteer to rock premature newborns at the hospital; help out at the Humane Society - just get started!

Write It Out
Start a journal of your thoughts and feelings. It can be a great release for you emotionally. Watch for our 'Moving On After Moving In' Journal to be available soon through our Gift Shoppe!

Listen To The Quiet
No noise allowed! No TV, no radio, no CD's---only the quiet stillness of your heart beat. Open the windows or go outside and just listen...

Join A Small Group Bible Study
What could be better than being in God's word and in the fellowship of women who will come along side you with encouragement and friendship? Find out if one of our 'Moving On After Moving In' classes is offered near you!

Prioritize Prayer
First thing in the morning--last thing at night--and all in between! Preceed everything with prayer for God's peace and assurance that you are in His care.