Busy is as busy does

There seems to be less and less time spent together as a family of late. Having both kids in High School has brought a bigger change than I imagined.

For Joshua, besides the increased work load that comes from seven classes each day (different from 4 in Jr. High), he is playing on the JV Football team, as well as continueing his pursuit of Eagle Scout. Practices last until 7 pm every week night with games on a week night or weekend. There are some evenings that Josh doesn't sit down to eat until 8:00 or start his homework until 10!

Hannah's Junior year started off fast and furious. She has three AP classes and SAT prep, which she'll sit for in January. She averages 3-5 hours of homework a night. Add to that this week's theatre tryouts and this girl is maxed! She had her first stress-related cry tonight in worry over the four hours of homework and not having a dialog prepared for tomorrow's call backs.

Steve has been in his new job for nearly a month and is working hard each day to learn the ropes. It is a totally new department and his boss's managing style leaves Steve to figure things out himself. Though it is not typical for this new position, he has been traveling and is currently in Michigan. He enjoys the days out of the office but it sure puts an added strain on the household management.

With the busy dynamics we find ourselves needing to be more purposeful in finding time together. Hannah and I do daily walks...5 minutes...15....30, whatever time or energy will allow (this is also our way of keeping the dogs off the couches!). I spend a few moments every day with Josh in the car as I pick him up from practice. It's a good time to connect as the events of his day are still fresh in his mind and he's more prone to share. Steve and I have found a monthly dinner-deal that offers coupons/certificates for a different resturante of our chosing. We also belong to a monthly Wine Club which keeps us connected to our closest friends.

The scariest part of all of this busyness is that time seems to be travelling as double speed. Before I know it the kids will be out on their own...and time will feel like it's stopped. What a scarey thought!