Yes, I realize that summer solstice was officially a few weeks ago. BUT for me the start of summer is that day at the end of June where the kids come flying out the doors of the school, backpacks stuffed with the contents of their desks, report cards in hand, and smiles on their faces. Today is that day!

And before you question it, the answer is…yes. I am excited that my kids are off school for two months. Not only does it mean that I don’t have to scramble trying to come up with creative, healthy, packable lunch options for the next few months, it also means that we get to take off to the mountains. I’m so fortunate that I have the best job in the world, and it’s portable! That means that not only do I get the chance to get out of my office and write in some beautiful and inspiring locations, I also get to spend time with the kids playing in the lake, going for walks, exploring new mountain trails and just hanging out.

The school year is so busy all the time. We’re always rushing from one thing to another that sometimes it’s easy to forget to spend time together. Sometimes you have to remember what really matters. My friend posted this YouTube clip on his Facebook page the other day, and I think it’s a message that we should all pay attention to.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m 100% sure that we’ll have our moments where they will both drive me over the edge and I’ll be wishing for year round schooling. But for right now…we all need a break and I’m more than ready to get started with some summer fun.

And speaking of summer fun, it’s time to do the draw for Diana Murdock’s new release, Souled.

Everyone who left a comment on ‘My How Time Flies’ was entered. And….the winner is….J.M. Randolph!! Please send me your email address and I’ll gift you an e-copy of this awesome book! If you didn’t win, you really should go pick up this book. It’s great!

What summer family plans do you have this year? Staying home or hitting the road?