Create and Connect

As we look ahead toward the simplicity of summer, one of the things I start to think about is how to connect with my kids. I crave that calming down, take it slow, look-you-in-the-eyes space that summer brings. Especially after a year like this!
One of the ways that I've always enjoyed connecting with my kids is by making things. I love sitting at a drop cloth covered table, having a snack and working on making something fun together. The sweet conversation just seems to flow better when their hands are busy. As my kids are getting older, these making-things-moments have given way to talking while cooking food, being outside while they hit golf balls or just sitting together by the fire pit. Their activities will change, but us being willing to give them our undivided attention should not. The one thing I know is that they are growing up way too fast. Being available to just sit and listen has at times become challenging. Certainly this year our patience has been tested.

One word that I love (but is often over used) is, "intentional." Going into their rooms at night to tuck them in bed and pray, planning time to disconnect from screens and connect with one another, sitting and eating meals together... all of it takes intention. Sometimes it feels like such a fight to make these things happen. But it's a battle worth fighting isn't it?

As Miss Holli and I are planning art camp this year, we have been thinking about how we can teach the kids to slow down and really take time to feel their feelings, think their thoughts and really see the world around them.

While we take this weekend to finalize our Camp Create projects, it just occurred to us that all of our projects unintentionally have a united theme! The theme is, "seeing". From googly eyed monsters, to kaleidoscopes to creating a found object treasure box... subconsciously we clearly want the kids to create with an eye towards slowing down, being patient and making something beautiful!

We are reminded of Psalm 119:18 ...
"Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things…"

This summer as we plan our child's activities, let's all give a nod toward listening, resting, focusing on and truly SEEING them and one another.

Camp Create will be held the following two weeks this summer:
June 21 through 25 and
June 28 through July 2
Both weeks are Monday - Friday 9am to 12.
Ages 6 through 12

Cost is $165 per camper with all materials and supplies provided. As always, discounts are included for families with multiple campers.

Registration closes June 4th.
Read more about it, see pictures and Register Online Here
[email protected] or call 407-421-3198 with questions.

---