A Simple Summer Ahead

The school year is wrapping up quickly and within two weeks we’ll be in full Summer mode. I’m still catching my breath from “back-to-school”, but here we are. Usually months out, the planning frenzy of finding and securing a spot at Summer camps begins, as well as contemplating Summer school and vacation plans, all while making lists of home projects and how to keep the kids busy for almost three months. The pressure and endless activity options are overwhelming, so why not plan for a simple “let’s wing it” Summer.

I’m always curious as to what other families are doing for the break, seeing if there is something that aligns with Arthur’s interests or something completely new. I do a little research of my own and leave it at that. So far we have twice weekly summer baseball games starting in July and a golf camp in July. A great way to keep Arthur moving as the Summer lazies set in. Depending on work schedules, we hope to get in local trips or a spontaneous getaway, but nothing is confirmed, and we are ok with that.

There will come a day when Arthur will want his own set of Summer plans or where we can’t quite escape classes and camps. For now, letting him have this break and simple moments at home is what I’m aiming for.

Last Summer, Vivi was still so teeny that it was easier to stay put. Now that she is on the move, we find ourselves a bit more restless (or maybe its just me), so I’m craving outings with a little structure, while also giving into having a carefree season ahead. After getting through my first school year as a full time home parent, I need a Summer break too!

I’m onboard with doing what works for our family, while incorporating and enjoying the treasured past time of Summer fun. Lazy mornings at home, ice cream with friends, swimming at grandma’s house, and a beach day all sound doable, no fuss and happy.

What does your ideal Summer look like? Here’s my recipe for a lovely summer day:

~ long swim days with cousins & friends

~ a beach day during the week with yummy sandwiches and juice boxes

~ checking local museums that have been our list since last Summer

~ a father and son veggie garden project

~ perhaps music lessons …. Arthur mentioned wanting to play the guitar again

~ catch a matinee with some buttery popcorn

~ make our own ice cream

~ a slip and slide or splash of for backyard water fun

~ find a boat (a duffy will do) and enjoy the ocean breeze

~ a long weekend road trip up the coast always sounds ideal and like a real adventure

~ a child-free day date with friends and rosé … a rooftop somewhere is calling my name

~ a movie night with popcorn, but outdoors or during the day

~ dining al fresco with watermelon, burgers and sweet corn

Happy Summer planning or not planning … here for the good times.