Plan for Priceless Summer Moments
Many of you have either already planned your summer vacations or are in the midst of doing so. Obviously, there are many things to figure out. Where does everyone want to go? When can we fit vacation time into everyone’s schedule? What can we afford?
A couple of years ago, my wife Tee and I were at a baseball tournament watching our grandson play. A girl about 10 years old walked by and the front of her t-shirt said,
“I have no life. My brother plays baseball!”
At first glance it was hilarious, but in reality, the parents and all the child’s siblings, could probably wear that same shirt. Whether it be baseball, basketball, softball, tennis, soccer, cheer, band, dance or any other extra-curricular activity, we need to be careful that we keep it in perspective and not allow it to rule our schedules, and in turn our lives. Sometimes the most well-meaning parents let their children’s activities become top priority – over church, over time with family, etc. – to the point that it becomes an idol.
Remember that some of the most fun and enjoyable moments are pick-up games in the back yard with paper plates for bases, a talent show in your living room where your kids are the stars, a neighborhood cookout where you roast hotdogs and marshmallows – times when everyone is laughing and having fun, and it doesn’t cost a dime or close to it. Those times are priceless!
Be intentional with your time this summer – and be sure you are creating memories that will last a lifetime!
John Croyle, Founder, Big Oak Ranch
Author, Who You Are/Defying the Circumstances that Define Us, Bringing Out the Winner in Your Child, The Two Minute Drill to Manhood and Raising a Princess, www.bigoak.org
