Each summer has its own particular feel and energy.  In the past, I used to always feel like there was “July Doldrums”.  Last summer was a summer full of community and fun, and there wasn’t really a “July Doldrums” but there was a bit of emptiness as I recovered from two years of loss.  This summer, we are doing active things, but I  have often felt tired.  I think this has to do with planning homeschooling for three children while also  studying for a major re-certification exam at the end of this month; my head is so wrapped up it is like my body is kayaking but my head is digesting all this information!  LOL.  I have been feeling more energized this week after taking the children camping with a dear friend of mine and her children, and coming to a point in my planning and studying that most of it is done! Yay!

So, I wanted to share some things I am enjoying right now.  One thing of delight is that we are planning a trip to the beach in September after Labor Day.  So, I have been enjoying reading about the Georgia Coast.  I think we are going to go into Florida for our beach week, but a lot of the warm Atlantic Ocean wildlife is similar.  I  have always wanted to get “The Treasure Cave:  Sea Tales of Tiptoes Lightly” by Reg Down to bring with us to the beach to read, so I am excited for that.  We will also bring games and puzzles (and our eyes to watch the stars as part of our seventh grader’s astronomy block!  Less light pollution!)

We have been enjoying checking out the National and State Parks in our state as we work on badge requirements for a Civil War badge, a Get Outdoors Badge and a Junior Ranger Badge.  These badges are a great way to discover your state!  You can see the National Parks Foundation link here:  http://www.nationalparks.org/connect/npf-kids/junior-rangers

I have been enjoying church.  There is something lovely about the time between Pentecost and the new church year.  I have been thinking about this post:  http://www.episcopalcafe.com/daily/church_year/no_ordinary_time.php. Some in the Episcopal Church refer to this time as “Ordinary Time” like our Roman Catholic friends, but the Book of Common Prayer does not name this season. The monks of Taize call this time “The Time of the Church” and I like that.  The Feast of the Dormition of St. Mary is a feast I am contemplating (August 15) and the loveliest ways to celebrate in our home.

Here are some links I have been enjoying out and about on the Internet:

I thought this was a great article for those of you who may be considering becoming a one-income family:  http://www.becomingminimalist.com/one-income-family/

This was a good read about why children need to be outside:  http://wilderness.org/blog/9-surprising-reasons-kids-get-outside-summer

And, what do you all think of this article from Huffington Post?  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/emma-jenner/modern-day-parenting-in-c_b_5552527.html

Love and happy summering,

Carrie