The Summer You’ll Never Forget

Summer is finally here, and I’ve got to tell ya, it’s about time! I am looking forward to things slowing down just a little bit so that Scott and I can hang out with the kids more, and I am eagerly awaiting more consistent weather patterns. Yes, that means the North Texas sun will beat us unmercifully at times. Still, it also means long days outside by the pool, our annual family vacation, hanging out on the patio grilling steaks and burgers, and ice cream dripping down sticky fingers. I can see and feel all of that right now. Can you? 

Good … so let’s make the most of it. After all, none of us are getting any younger — including our children. All our kids except one are out of the house and on their way to becoming the fantastic men and women we raised them to be. So when we do get together, I am taking full advantage since these and so many other family moments don’t happen daily like they used to. I am living in the moment and making the most out of each day I have with them.

So, go ahead — make this the best summer you’ve ever had. Here are a few simple tips to make the most out of yours:

1. Have a camp out in the backyard – My friend did this last summer with their little ones, and it wasn’t too elaborate. They simply set up shop on the trampoline in their backyard, put out a few citronella candles to repel mosquitos, and stared into the starry night sky until they drifted off to sleep. Trust me … the kids will love it.
2. Plan something you’ve never done before – Have a family sit down and choose a few road trips or local activities you’ve never done together before.
3. Master a new skill or talent – This can be for you or the kids. The kids never want to stop trying new things, and adults need to remember they can still learn new tricks at any age. A friend of mine said he’s going to teach his littlest son how to ride a bike this summer, and another said she would train for a half marathon. The possibilities are endless.
4. Check-in on your 2022 goals – June is the midway point of the year, and if you set goals for yourself back in January, it’s time to see where you are and if you need to play any catch-up.

What ideas do you have for this summer? Share them and any pictures you have with us. Who knows … you may just end up in one of our future magazines. Thanks for reading!