July 31.
Is it true?
I think July is particularly special, because it is uninterrupted. In Wisconsin where we recently vacationed, for example, kids are in school until mid-June. Their July is like opening a gift to summer. Around here in Colorado, our June is free, but school begins right around the corner in early August. July is our month to appreciate being slower, being together, and being grateful for the sun and high skies. July means later bedtimes and impromptu popsicle parties with neighbors. July means sandwiches for dinner on a picnic blanket and puzzles in the air conditioning.
Tomorrow my mind shifts to all things back-to-school, but today I’ll celebrate all things July.
The 4th of July here in our town is a delight. Each year, the Longmont Symphony Orchestra plays at one of our beautifully shaded parks, and people come out to picnic, play, and listen.
After a relaxing lunch at the park, we came home to get ready for the big event. We are so lucky to live in a cul-de-sac. It’s the perfect space to play and party. Each year, we invite families for a pot-luck, yard games, and fireworks right here in the circle. This year, a bouncy house showed up along with fifty friends. We grilled, roasted marshmallows, bounced, and lit fireworks.
Until the rain came. Then, we raced like the dickens to get all things inside garages where the kids continued to play and be merry while watching the storm. When life gives you lemons … watch the kids for inspiration.
Good night, 4th. You were so very good.
Though that was big fun, it really was the small things that made this month worth celebrating.
Things like spending lazy afternoons at the pool, kids and Daddy in, mommy outside reading …
Daddy, you are the ultimate good sport swimmer. Have I told you lately how much I appreciate your willingness to embrace cold water with our kids?
Things like gathering in the cul-de-sac with neighbors and watching our kids bike-ride and throw frisbees.
Things like enjoying the bounty at the Farmers’ Market and eating alfresco…
Things like getting ice cream and lingering over family conversations …
As I type, my three favorite people are in bed next to me watching morning cartoons and tickling each other’s feet. Next week, we will be up with the alarm and ready for our days.
Don’t get me wrong, there is such excitement about back-to-school. New outfits, new teachers, schedules, and bulletin boards (and my favorite August tradition that includes a recurring nightmare about not being prepared for the first day of school*).
But, today, there is one last day of July. Time to go snuggle my peeps …
*I ran into a retired teacher at the airport two weeks ago. She said to me, “Oh, I just had my dream,” to which I responded, “I’m sorry, what? Didn’t you say you were retired?” She smiled at me like oh you sweet naive little thing and then told me she’s had the nightmare each summer for the four years she’s been out of the classroom.
Sigh. Is this my future? See you tomorrow, August.
