This week finally started to feel like fall here in Northern California, and my family relished in the sound of rain falling and the sight of colorful leaves littering the walkways.
I've been taking some time after a busy season to reflect on the previous season and plan for this coming year. I want to be thoughtful in our celebrations and our work as a family.
Some questions that I ask at the end or beginning of a season:
How did I grow in this season that I'm closing out?
How did my family grow?
What are the gifts from this past season?
What insights did I gain?
How did I see God show up for our family?
What does God want me to prioritize in this next season?
How can I make space for rest in the next season?
What new habits can we develop in this next season?
What relationships need more care in the next season?
What do we want to learn in the next season?
Taking time to ask yourself and your children these questions can help you enter the holiday season with more peace and purpose.
If one of the things on your list of things to learn is American history, check out Playful Pioneers Volume 2.
Month one is perfect for a Thanksgiving study with art from N.C. Wyeth, Thanksgiving poetry and recipes, and beautiful book suggestions for learning about early settlers in America.
The thing I love most about reading these old stories is recognizing that no matter how dark the world is, God will come through.
Just as he provided food for the Pilgrims and the blessing of knowledgeable neighbors, he will provide for us. Our children need to hear these hopeful stories in a day when the news is constantly bleak and much too pervasive.
More Tools for Reflection
Restoration Home Reflection Journal-This journal includes weekly questions for nurturing reflection around the tasks of motherhood.
Restoration Home Daily Journal- This daily journal includes space for writing a verse, gratitude, and to do list, while also encouraging evening reflection time and developing a vision for your life as a mother.