September always feels like the real start of the year for our family. School is back in full swing, the air hints at fall, and suddenly, the calendar is overflowing with events, programs, and family milestones. We’re starting the month off with a bang—literally—with a big Labor Day birthday bash at our house, and things only get busier from there. With so much going on, we’re setting a few intentional family goals to keep us grounded, joyful, and present in the middle of the busy.

1. Host with Joy (Labor Day Bash!)

We’re kicking off the month by hosting a big Labor Day family birthday bash at our house to celebrate the September birthdays. Being the hostess comes with its stresses, but my goal is to focus less on perfection and more on making everyone feel welcome and loved. At the end of the day, it’s not about the decorations or the food—it’s about gathering and laughing together.

2. Celebrate Family Birthdays

We’ve got two special birthdays this month—Sacha is turning 40 (a milestone worth celebrating!) and Cosette is turning 4 (how is my baby growing up so fast?). September is full of reasons to celebrate, and I want to make sure each birthday feels special and memorable for them. Our goal is to pause, honor these moments, and create traditions they’ll always treasure.

3. Stick to Schedules and Routines

As a busy mom, I know that routines are what keep our household running smoothly. With school mornings, homework, practices, and bedtime routines, having a predictable rhythm helps everyone know what to expect. Our goal this month is to keep those routines as consistent as possible—even when life gets hectic—because when the kids (and mom!) know the plan, we all function better.

4. Stay Sane During Travel Weekends

We’ve got two travel weekends this month as we head to Western Carolina University to cheer on Balian with the drumline and marching band. While it’s exciting, it’s also a lot of packing, car time, and disrupted schedules. To keep things sane, I’m planning ahead with snack bags, car activities, and a flexible mindset. Our family goal here is to embrace the chaos while still protecting rest time wherever we can.

5. Get Back Into Church Programming

September means our church’s programming is kicking off for the school year again. We love being involved, and this is such a meaningful part of our family rhythm. The kids thrive on the consistency and community, and it’s a blessing to reconnect with everyone after the slower pace of summer. One of my favorite ways to serve is by volunteering to teach the 3/4 year old music class on Wednesday nights—it’s such a joy to see little ones light up through music and worship. Our goal is to dive back in while balancing it with everything else on our plate.

6. Savor Fall Traditions

One of our favorite fall traditions is apple picking at Stepp’s Orchard in Western NC. The kids love filling up their baskets, and I love knowing that we’ll come home with apples for baking, snacking, and maybe even trying a new recipe or two. This is our chance to slow down, soak up the season, and make sweet memories outdoors.

Looking Ahead

September may be jam-packed, but when I look at all we have planned—celebrations, travel, church, and family traditions—I can’t help but feel grateful. Our family goals are simple: stick to routines, find joy in the busy moments, celebrate well, and savor the season.

Here’s to a full and wonderful September!