Dear Mom,

I see that your youngest is only 3 weeks old. I trust that you are recuperating nicely after giving birth. I hope that you are finding enough free time for yourself despite the busy and active household that you are blessed to mother. I think that the free time that your children are experiencing could probably be put to school use, within reason of course. After all we are about to enter into the busiest time of year for many families as they ready their homes, hearts and spirits to accept and celebrate the Incarnation of the Lord.

Perhaps you could let the children work ahead on their studies in preparation for the days to come when they will most likely have interruptions in their normal schedule. It sounds as if you are being given a wonderful gift in that the children are eager and bright with regard to the timely completion of their assigned work. Working ahead for a short time each day could serve you well.

I do not like to over plan my children's free time. I do not have television so the free time that the children enjoy is usually spent in endeavors that are creative and speak to their unique outlets for relaxation. Some of them are crafters, some are readers, and some like to be outside no matter the weather. Certainly be a sensible mom and do not allow rough housing that is going to be destructive. However the time they are spending playing with each other and getting to know each other through time shared is precious and knits bonds between siblings that are long lasting and necessary.

Let's pray together a Hail Mary asking the dear Blessed Mother to help us prepare our homes to commemorate her divine Son's birth. Amen.

Sending out a prayer,

Rita Munn