For our kids, this is a wonderful statement. It’s the end of another school year filled with homework, tests, sports, friends and bullies, teachers and advisors.
For parents, these can be the four scariest words of the year because they are followed with – ‘oh my, now what do we do with them?
Seriously, summer is a great time of year to plan a great family vacation or just carve out some quality time with your kids, and extended families and take some time to reconnect. It’s also the time of year when weddings are in abundance and parties under the moonlight are in full swing. I have two weddings coming up, one for my brother-in-law and then one of my best friends, both getting married in the next 30 days. I’m looking forward to seeing all of my in-laws, they are wonderful people and I know both events will be memories for a lifetime. The best part – is I get to throw the bachelor party for Stephen!
But wait, that statement is real, ‘oh my, now what do we do with them? “Them” being the 4 kids in my household, or the 2, 3, or 4 looking at you right now in yours. I mean, we all have jobs, commitments, and bills to pay – but they need to be entertained. In my house, our biggest fight is keeping them off all of the electronics like Facebook, iPhones, and XBOX (but hey, it works….?? Tempting no?). So here is what our plans are – subject to change of course.
My oldest, Granger, is recording his next album for SIX VOLT and has been chosen to play in the top Lacrosse league in the North East for the summer. Sounds like he is well placed, with the exception of playing games from Cape Cod to Maryland – his Mom better get the car tuned up,hahahhahaha! My daughter Lili will be working and Sailing at our local Boat club and riding her bike to see friends. Lili is pretty amazing all around, always planning something, and the most creative girl I know. And Bam Bam (my youngest son), well, he is going to Culver! Yes! Another one of the family at Culver Naval Academy – following in Dad’s footsteps. He does not know it yet, but he is about to have the time of his life!!
So for me, it will be a bit of travel, two weddings, a few stolen hours with the kids between their activities, and a lot of work launching a new business that is sure to give me a few more gray hairs. My wife leaves for a month to see her folks and family back on the West Coast and I will miss them terribly, but a little break now and then isn’t bad either for all of us.
The summer will go too fast for all of us, but it will surely be filled with wonderful times and great memories. Just make sure you take a break – roast some marshmallows, eat a little more, and drink a little less.
And don’t forget the sunscreen!
