Enjoying Summer With Your Family
With summer in full swing, we all have a unique opportunity to create lasting memories and deepen family bonds. Though it can seem simple, the importance of enjoying time with our families cannot be overstated.
St. Josemaria Escriva said, "The secret of married happiness lies in everyday things, not in daydreams. It lies in finding the hidden joy of coming home in the evening, in affectionate relations with their children, in the everyday work in which the whole family cooperates; in good humor in the face of difficulties that should be met with a sporting spirit; in making the best use of all the advantages that civilization offers to help us rear children, to make the house pleasant and life more simple.”
In our society, there is often great pressure to shower our husbands, children, and even ourselves with expensive gifts, vacations, and the best technology in order to demonstrate our love. We believe, as St. Josemaria says above, that life does not have to be extravagant to be wonderful, and that the most impactful moments you can share with your family are often spent in the quiet of your own home, participating in shared experiences with a joyful spirit.
We want to support you in cultivating a home in which your family members can truly connect. Having a positive outlook on everyday tasks gives us a way to model to our families the joy that we should all have as children of God. How great to find joy in the ordinary and to embrace the simple moments that bring your family closer.
To investigate this topic, check out the books, podcasts, and articles under the Resources tab.
Fresh Peach Cobbler
It's peach season, and we could not be happier! One great thing to do with family is to make memories over a delicious summer dessert. We hope you enjoy this recipe from Southern Living!
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar, divided
1 Tbsp. baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cups fresh peach slices (from about 6-8 peaches)
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
Head to Southern Living for the rest of the recipe!
8 Creative Summer Activities for Families
Are you running out of things to do with your children this summer? Never fear! These 8 creative summer activities offer fun for the whole family.
Backyard Camping:
Set up a tent in your backyard and have a camping night. Make s'mores, tell stories, and stargaze. This provides the fun of camping without leaving home.
Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Create a list of items commonly found in nature (like different leaves, rocks, flowers, or insects) and go on a scavenger hunt in a local park or your backyard. This activity encourages exploration and observation.
DIY Water Park:
Use sprinklers, water balloons, kiddie pools, and slip-and-slides to create a mini water park in your yard. This is a great way to stay cool and have fun on hot days.
Outdoor Art Gallery
Set up an art gallery in your very own yard. Have your children work on paintings, crafts, clay sculptures, or any art work of their choosing. Set up their work on tables in your yard for them to present and/or sell to friends and family. Get creative with snacks and drinks, put on some music, and make a night out of it.
Outdoor Movie Night
Set up an outdoor theater at home. Your children can choose the movie, prep the space with blankets and pillows, and even set up a cardboard concession stand with boxes of candy and popcorn.
Make Popsicles
With many fruits in season and on sale, now is the perfect time to make popsicles at home with your children. Head to the store, pick up ingredients and popsicle molds, and make it a project for the whole family.
DIY Bird Feeders:
Make bird feeders using pine cones, peanut butter, and birdseed, or pick some up from your local craft store. Paint or decorate them, then hang them around your yard, and enjoy watching the birds that come to visit.
Family Talent Show
Organize a family talent show where each member can showcase their unique skills or hobbies, whether it's singing, dancing, magic tricks, or storytelling. This is a great way to celebrate everyone's talents and have a lot of laughs.
