July 2024 – Sharon’s Shorts

Growing up, summer was my favorite time of the year. The warm weather meant sleeping with the windows open, and even better, setting up a tent in the backyard enjoying the stars. Even on the hottest nights, we gathered around the campfire, roasting marshmallows for s’mores, catching lightning bugs, and singing our hearts out. No one cared if we were off-key because we were too busy having a great time.

I can still hear my parents gently reminding my brother, our friends, and me to keep our singing down so we wouldn’t wake the neighbors. Naturally, this only encouraged us to sing even louder! Our off-key singing was often accompanied by laughter, filling the night with unforgettable memories. On stormy nights or when we preferred the comfort of our beds, my mom’s creativity shone through. She would lead us in coloring, crafting fun projects from random household supplies, or embarking on a scavenger hunt in the house or the backyard.

What memories are you creating with your family this summer? If you’re looking for fresh ideas to keep your children engaged and entertained, visit our website for a variety of resources. You can download some coloring sheets, find instructions to make your own pinwheel, or explore a new book to read together! Check it out at https://pcaiowa.org/tools-and-resources/

Here’s to making memories and enjoying those perfectly burnt marshmallows!