the famous question

Recently I have been getting this question from just about everyone that knows me:

"So...what are you gonna do this summer?"

And really...you can't get the tone of this question through bloggy world.  But know that this question is always asked with a tad bit of a tone...a tone that bugs me to be honest.  But I know that people just care and want to know just what an individual does when they have a couple months where they aren't "working".

Here's what I'm not going to do that so many people seem to think that teachers should do with this time off....take on another job and work because I have this "off" time.  period.

Justin and I are at an understanding that as long as God is blessing us with our jobs the way he is, we're not going to stress each other out by expecting the other one to take on a second job during their "off season."  (Justin has a lot of days off in the winter due to his career being outside.)  Of course this can always change according to God's direction and will for our lives.  But that's where we are right now.  We take this time as blessings where our home is less stressful, we can make money here and there on our little side-hobbies, and it is a gift of time to focus on our relationship and faith.

But now that I'm stepping off my soapbox, I do want to share my little list of "to-do's" or "hope-to's" for this summer...

-make homemade treats for Boone

-explore nearby shelters and non-profits for ways I can serve and places I can bless with some of these freebies and great deals I find

-start an exercise routine....daily walks/jogs with Boone and.....hello 30-day shred

-daily bible reading and studying

-read books from my reading list here

-starting a little writing project that's been on my heart

-start my etsy shop

-add curtains to our living room and bedroom

(can't wait to pass-on this thrifty, adorable idea I have found from another blogger)

-paint our office and kitchen

(the kitchen involves taking down gross wallpaper...any tips out there for me?)

-get away with Justin for a mini vacay

I'm sure I'll add more.  But that should suffice for the "down" time.  Oh my soul is longing for it right now....

8 days!