Today the kids took full advantage of being on summer break!  Lots of lounging around and doing nothing and staring at screens...

We did meet Windles and Tays at the Longbranch in the evening to discuss some wrestling things.

It was really nice for them to have a day to just relax their brains after the end of the school year studying and stress. They've all been doing useful things too--for example, each of the girls watered a different neighbor's flowers while they were gone last week.  Caeden does mowing for the neighbors across the street.  And they all keep up with daily practicing their instruments and doing chores around the house. 

We made a difficult bittersweet decision not to do swim team, summer theatre, camps, and most summer activities besides private lessons this summer.  While those are all wonderful activities we've enjoyed in the past, they take up our entire summer with practices, driving to and from, and don't leave us with a lot of together time.  We are going to try to be home and do more things at home and near home together this summer. There will be sleeping in times, but we will be pretty intentional about not just sitting around and literally doing nothing every day.  The girls especially want to get in a lot of piano and voice lessons and practicing.  

I also have some lofty goals for organizing/purging the house and maybe even a couple painting and/or wallpapering projects if it's not stupidly hot and humid all summer.

I read a little article this morning about reducing summer "brain drain," and realized that the top 5 things suggested are things we already do intentionally and regularly: 

1. Visit your local library

2. Go on field trips to museums

3. Cook with your children

4. Start a family game night

5. Take family vacations – either in person or virtually

So, we are all looking forward to the adventure of this summer!