Summer's all about having fun right? Well, that's what my boys think anyway. Fun to them means no homework, no jobs, no piano, no rules, no schedule, just a life full of video games. Sorry guys - not going there. (Note: I really do think this is one of the great vices of our day- to keep kids from fulfilling their potential. Especially kids like mine, somewhat obsessive. It's doesn't matter how long they've played- it's never enough. Last week, we were having one of our daily video game discussions and I asked, "How much time is enough?" The response was, "hours!" And when 'hours' is over- it's still not enough). To fill the void, I try to create fun in other ways, like being outdoors. My favorite place to be with my children is outside- walking, hiking, swimming, biking, etc. There's nothing as wholesome as good old fashioned mud digging or rock throwing. (Another reason I love mountain or beach trips with my kids). We all seem to get along better when we're out of the confines of our home. Sad, but true. That way, I don't get bugged about messes, jobs not done, and nonproductivity, and the kids don't get annoyed by constant reminders.
So, today, we loaded up the van with food and kids and went to a local county park. The kids enjoyed the beach, playground, and kayaking. (And Spencer enjoyed a baby leech that attached itself to his hand). We brought a few friends along and had a great time. Spencer was great about making all the sandwiches and drink, while the other two boys helped a little, and then just honored my wishes by "disappearing" for a few minutes, while Spencer and I finished up. Little by little, outings are becoming easier, as the kids help more.
I have become a huge fan of the outdoors this summer. Maybe it's having two boys, and a girl who might as well be one--but the outdoors is the absolute best place for them to be. Mountains and beaches--that's the story of our summer so far, and it has been exhausting but great.
I hear ya on the video game thing! My 9 year old hasn't had too much time to play yet, since we are in the middle of a move, but I have been filling my head with all sorts of day trips and outdoors activities to keep him otherwise "occupied". :)
3 comments:
You are very ambitious!
I have become a huge fan of the outdoors this summer. Maybe it's having two boys, and a girl who might as well be one--but the outdoors is the absolute best place for them to be. Mountains and beaches--that's the story of our summer so far, and it has been exhausting but great.
I hear ya on the video game thing! My 9 year old hasn't had too much time to play yet, since we are in the middle of a move, but I have been filling my head with all sorts of day trips and outdoors activities to keep him otherwise "occupied". :)
Post a Comment