Planning for Summer

Where did May go? 
There was so much to celebrate this month, but it's also been a reminder of time gone by.

My sister, brother and niece all turned a year older, my husband and I have been married for 5 years, my daughter is nearing a year and a half and another year of teaching comes to a close in just a few weeks.

Although there are no major life changes this year, I've been dealing a lot of small inner changes over the past few months. Some days are great and some days I don't handle things very well.

When these days hit I can either drown myself in self doubt or I can get out of the house and do something. This can take a lot more effort than I'd like some days but having people in my life that inspire me and planning for the things that are important to me make all the difference.

As you start or continue to plan your summer for your kids and yourself, make a point to schedule in all the important things you want to do, as individuals and as a family. The summer goes by too quickly (and is really just a warm-up for how fast the remaining months of the year go by!)

Whatever it is you put on your list, make sure it includes getting outside, for the parents especially! No matter what we might be dealing with in our lives or what stresses we are trying to handle, getting outside is an instant release and refresh, and gives us new perspective to face our everyday challenges.

Here's what the Barten's have planned this summer:

As a Family                                                                  Personal Goals

Festivals (Home County, Goderich, Stratford)             Half Marathon
Gymworld Classes (for my tumbler!)                          June 16th Celtic Shift at London Music Club
Swimming & Splash Pads                                            Newfoundland
Storybook Gardens                                                       Tough Mudder
Clovermead                                                                   Rugged Maniac
Kusterman's Farm
Beach
St. Jacob's Market
Runs & Bike Rides
Rock Climbing!
Mustang Drive in
GARDENING!

As I've been telling my students, the summer is a chance to relax a bit with violin practice as they are not necessarily expected to be doing a lot of WORK. Progress on new pieces will be minimal and this is an acceptable break. What is not acceptable is to stop playing all together. So pull out those review charts or get creative and create your own review stations. Play what you know, maintain your skills, try something new and get inspired by going to festivals and shows. I'll let you know as the summer goes a long what shows you'll find me at! 

Happy Summer!