Managing the Home

A textbook for managing your home. That's how I would describe Large Family Logistics: The Art and Science of Managing the Large Family by Kim Brenneman. I know it talks about large families, but really, what is a large family? Some might say with seven members ours is a large family, while others with ten, eleven, or twenty one might says ours isn't large at all. In truth, I wish I had implemented many of these these ideas and principles years ago when I had only two children. I borrowed this book from a friend and read about half of it in a week, then I ordered my own copy because I realized it would be an excellent resource book to implement little by little rather than just reading through once. After finishing the book, I determined that it will serve as my 15-year-old daughter's home economics textbook this year. Yes, it's that good. Just think how far ahead she will be if she already has her attitude in place, a home management book organized, and habits and tips up her sleeve. (Okay, the truth is she is already way ahead of where I was, say, five years ago, but this will propel her even farther along).

The first part of the book shapes our attitude in our management of our homes. It is filled with Scripture and encouragement, and gives tips for setting goals, gaining self-discipline, some child-training, and putting self in its proper place. She encourages hospitality and taking care of ourselves.

I especially liked her suggestion to take stock of how I am spending my time right now. She suggests carrying around a notebook for a day or two and quickly jotting down what you do and how long it takes to evaluate your stewardship of your time.

I also appreciated her transparency as she shared "There are days when things just don't go according to plan. . .When this happens, just adjust. Change your plan, or take a break. Gather everyone together, offer some encouraging words, pray, take a nap, get a drink or a snack, or read a story. Take the time needed to get everyone back on track, and then get back on track" (109). Phew! I was glad to know it's not just our family who has those days, and I am more inclined to read and attempt her suggestions when she is real about life.

I was encouraged, convicted, and inspired by her summary of motherhood:

Motherhood is a life of sacrifice; it is a life poured out for our children. So what are we to do to get some space from it all? When we are honest with ourselves, we know that it is not "Me Time" we need or a "Girls' Night Out". Children are not a burden to escape or endure; they are a blessing that drives us to Christ because we are incapable of parenting well without Him. God is who we need. While there are helpful strategies we can employ in order to have a more peaceful day with our children, the number one thing we must do is to deny Self and cling to the cross" (87).

The second section is chock full of practical ideas and tips. Most of this section focuses on creating a Home Management Book. I have played around with this concept for some time as I have a three ring binder that contains our monthly budget, menu planning, shopping lists, etc. But she takes it to a whole new level as she encourages lists of chores in each room of the house, daily schedules, and a rotation for each week such as Monday is laundry day, Tuesday is kitchen day, etc. She breaks each day down itemizing and sharing tips for laundry day, office day, or whatever.

There are chapters which are unique to individual families or seasons of life, such as homeschooling, times of pregnancy, and several little children. But there are many more chapters which apply to households across the board.

I really like her conversational tone throughout the book and while she is obviously adept at running her home, she still makes it seem attainable even for the organizationally-challenged. I also really appreciate that most of the chapters are short so a busy woman can grasp a complete point in one sitting.

My goal is to have my Home Management Book completed and this household running itself by the end of the summer. (gales of laughter--I have many lofty goals like this for the summer, and I usually accomplish approximately ten percent of those goals. But any little bit I accomplish is better than just sitting around reading cozy mysteries during naptime, right?? a-hem) Someone hold me accountable. . .well, on completing the Home Management Book at least.