<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd“>
**Ah, Summer Vibes**
Yeah, I understand, it’s quite warm. In fact, it’s steamy. Yet, I have a fondness for summer.
Back when my children were in elementary school, the year-end pool bash, followed by a mom and kid getaway, clearly symbolized the shift from the school term to summer break. The structure of classes, homework, and school uniforms was replaced with sleeping in, game nights, and swimsuits. Add in a lazy river and blissful nights without alarm clocks, and life felt perfect.
**Transitioning Years**
As they moved into middle school, summer sports and developing friendships made escaping for family time a bit trickier. However, we still participated in team sports. We often voiced our complaints about Saturday night games, but deep down, we cherished the camaraderie (and the popcorn). Now that our children are in high school, it’s even harder to find time to relax together. Our summer calendars now encompass jobs, SAT/ACT preparation, Drivers Ed, study abroad programs, college applications, and internships.
**Navigating Independence**
I’ve noticed that as our kids gain more independence (starting the moment they received their driver’s licenses), my husband and I end up filling our schedules more, too. Between work, philanthropy, time with adult friends, date nights, and moments with our own parents, we find ourselves wondering where the week went by the time Friday arrives. It’s just moving too quickly!
**Making Memories Together**
But look on the bright side, it’s summer, and I’m resolved to create special memories.
While we strive to get our kids ready for their futures (a rather overwhelming task), I, for one, want to savor every moment of the precious time I have with them while they’re still living at home. I often make a light-hearted comment that parenting resembles army boot camp – it’s not merely a job; it’s an adventure. And what an adventure it truly is!
**Celebrating Summer as a Family**
In this edition of GLF, you will discover countless ideas, many of which are budget-friendly, to cherish summertime as a family.
GLF is dedicated to improving life a little by sharing information that is educational, helpful, and uplifting. We’re here because you’re here. We’re navigating these shared experiences together. So, we’d love to hear from you. Send us photos, tips, and ideas for stories. Share your parenting highs and lows, and let us know about your family fun.
So, here’s to finding great family activities. Happy Summer!
-Sheryl
Live.Learn.Laugh.(apply sunscreen.)Repeat.
