Planning for a Balanced Autumn in August

I now know why they call this time of year "The Dog Days of Summer." Ever since we got our family's mixed hound, a rescue dog named Opie, on July 2nd, I have been up at the crack of dawn. Traversing throughout my backyard, on the newly cut grass as well as the wooded areas, I revel in the all of the smells of morning. There's a freshness in the air that will be gone as soon as the day unfolds and August's humidity struts in.

Like Opie who languishes on our deck, in the shade, I relish this special time of year. It's a month of transition. The cooler temperatures in the morning and evening remind me that autumn is just around the corner. This means that school will be starting soon and more rigid day and night time schedules with invariably ensue.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind parents to print out their children's math packet. My third grade daughter has 37 pages to complete. My 14-year-old son, a freshman at Masuk High School, had only about 20 pages of College Prep Algebra to do before the third day of school. All children are required to read at least three books and, for my son, he will be expected to deliver a book talk on one of them during an English class during the first couple weeks of school.

It's also that time of year to put the dates for Back to School Nights on your calendars. Teachers prepare overview of their respective classes and it's a great way to personally meet these important individuals who will be playing significant roles in our children's lives.

It's about that time, too, to sign up for sports programs. My son has been participating in a wonderful basketball program sponsored by the Ansonia Boys & Girls Club. In the early fall, he typically joins a league that the Shelton Boys & Girls Club hosts at their site which is located off of Route 110. Because of the timing of the two leagues, he can still be part of Monroe's Parks and Recreation program that begins in December, too.

Every year I attempt to find a balance in our family's lives between academics, physical exercise, spirituality and relaxation. I won't kid you, though — it's tough. Our schedules get so hectic, so fast. Within a few weeks, these laid-back, "dog days of summer" give way to deadlines, due dates, game schedules, social events, etcetera. Every year I ask myself, what resolutions could I make for this school year that will bring our family more "quality" time together and more memories of unconditional love?

There are no easy answers except to keep re-evaluating the activities that I say "yes" to and those that politely decline participating in. Of course, some school responsibilities — such as homework — are non-negotiable. However, this year I'm going to attempt to take back our Sundays. It doesn't mean that we won't do any work or chores. It simply means that we will carve out time to talk, catch up, share a meal and acknowledge the love that exists between us. By doing so, we will develop stronger relationships and we will all be healthier overall.