During this time, these are formative years that help to shape your children, and it’s important to make the most of those years.

But sometimes, life gets in the way. Between the laundry and dishes, you’ve got education and tires to replace.

That’s what I found myself working on the last few days. Two vehicles, 8 new tires.

However, we can’t get entangled with only the mundane things that pull us away from the little things that matter most in the long run.

Your children need you!! And believe it or not, you need your children. My children have taught me so much about myself that, at times, it’s pretty scary. Just look in the cute mirror you brought into the world.

How are you spending your summers?

Just a couple of days ago, it was the summer solstice; the longest day of the year and the first official day of summer.

How did you spend that day?

What I am finding is that families are being challenged in what they do together, because so much is brought to us at our fingertips. Look at our technological advancements.

So if you want to be a part of your child’s life more so than just a disciplinarian, you have to be intentional about how you spend your time together, especially your summers. You only have a total of 18 and counting.

Now, I get that you will still have summers together after they move out. But it’s not the same. Your greatest influence is created in the four walls you live in. And that comes from their formative young child-rearing years.

So, what can you do to create memories, build strong relationships, and raise your kids well every summer?

You’ve gotta come together to stay together.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Come together!

It doesn’t have to break the bank. I really want you to think about some out-of-the-box ideas. Go beyond the norm. Because that’s where your memories will be born.

1. Create a Summer Bucket List: Sit down with your kids and create a list of things you all want to do over the summer. This can include things like visiting a new museum or theme park, camping, or trying a new restaurant.

2. Plan a Family Staycation: You don’t need to travel far to have a great summer vacation. Explore your city, plan a day trip, or even just have a movie marathon at home. The important thing is to spend quality time together as a family.

3. Get Outside: There’s no better way to enjoy the summer sun than to spend time outdoors. Take a hike, go for a bike ride, or have a picnic in the park.

“Don’t let money get in the way of what matters.” ~ Kristianne Wargo

4. Learn Something New: Summer is a great time to dive into a new hobby or skill. Take a cooking class, learn how to paint, or start a new sport together.

5. Volunteer Together: Volunteering as a family not only helps others in need, but also teaches your kids valuable life lessons. Help out at a local food bank or animal shelter, or participate in a beach clean up.

Summer is great for memories to be made. It’s usually a time of calm and adventure. So create an environment where your children can thrive and grow up to become productive adults.

Every summer provides an opportunity to build strong relationships and create lasting memories with our children that will last a lifetime.

Don’t take the summers you have with your kiddos for granted. Embrace every summer and make the most of the time you have together.

So what will you start planning today to make this summer the best one yet?

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“