Our family is like the branches of a tree. We may grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.

Routine gives us continuity and stability. If the routine is constantly having to be altered because of 'extra things' to do or other people's demands, we must think again.
The basic healthful rhythm of life and its "discipline" are being eroded or damaged.


Too often we are like little pathetic trees all shriveled up through straining to keep up a fast pace for long hours. How can such trees bear fruit? How can life flourish? The "trees" that are us also need life-giving "sun, fresh air,and proper food." And the "seedlings" (our children)are even more sensitive to deprivation...


I loved these words from a book I'm reading about family..called The Value of Home In Every ones Life..

I believe one of the best ways to make sure your family has a strong root system is routine.........If we are living this life from one thing to the next with no routine we are sadly missing 'the point'.....Our kids need routine in their life. We need routine in our life.

Ways to do this..
Get up every morning at the same time.
Have breakfast together every morning...Don't let some sleep in and miss this time.
Have reading time everyday at or about the same time.
Regular nap times with very few exceptions.
Movie night
Friday night pizza night.
One day a week where you go to the library or park.
At 5.00 every night we are cleaning up and giving baths.
Everynight at 6.30 we are having supper with dad.

Write your routine down and ask the kids "So today at 12:00 we do what??"...
You may have to let go of some 'good things' in order to start a routine but
the rewards are unmeasurable..