As the weather starts to turn, the days get longer and the sunshine is warmer, something deep inside us changes ever so slightly. For me, I long for days spent in the sunshine in the garden or poolside with our friends, long summer nights and short trips up north to cooler weather. But mostly, it is just a break from the long reality of the school year. Even though the boys are getting older, our family is still on the cycle started long ago in kindergarten - up early for school, homework and projects, studying for quizzes and tests. Sure, there's an occasional day off here and there and both fall and spring break, but nothing speaks to the soul of a child like summer vacation.
For most of us Phoenicians, we dread the heat of summer. When the boys were much younger, my girlfriends and I would sit and try to scheme up new ways to keep everyone entertained inside - there was the library, the mall, the movies - Good ol' Harkins kids movie passes - and when we were brave enough, we'd pack everyone up for the public pool or SunSplash. Now, most of our kids are entertaining themselves. With video games and SnapChat, streaming shows and group texts, I can honestly say it's been years since the words "I'm bored" were uttered.
Now, I find it quite the opposite. With the window closing on how many actual weeks are left before graduation, it's the parents now that are trying to find ways to connect - buying just a little bit more time. I'm not embarrassed at all to say, I'm one of those parents. Can I learn to play FortNite or the latest racing car game? Maybe. Am I yearning to have them around the table just a night or two a month to spend some time together? Sure. With all the excitement coming, I want to enjoy, honestly.
But I find myself wanting to hit pause just a little bit and enjoy the present. Maybe swing a little.
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