Summertime and the Living is…

Many kids, parents, families are having a hard time finding that easy feeling this summer. 

Think back to your best summer memories. 

Cal remembers long, hot days moving sprinklers and pitching hay on his uncle’s dairy farm. Hard work? Yes, but also satisfying and done in the company of cousins and an uncle who knew how to mix work and play, who took care of business and found time for laughter and fun. Some days there was even time for the rope swing over the irrigation ditch.

Anne remembers summer days filled with sandcastles and contests to see who could spit watermelon seeds the farthest out into the ocean. She and her sibs would beg and tease for permission to walk together down to the beach. “We won’t even get wet! We promise!” was the oft repeated and oft broken pledge.

What is it about water that helps us find that “easy feeling”?

Research shows that we feel more relaxed just by seeing or hearing moving water. Our brains release neurochemicals that increase the blood flow to our hearts and brains and make us feel good.

So if you want your kids to be ready for a great year in school next fall, think about spending some time in the water this summer to get the blood flowing and the “easy feeling” going strong.

You don’t even need the beach, although that’s nice. A small stream, a pond, a kiddie pool, or even a hose will do quite nicely. On a summer evening when it’s just too hot to sit outside, Cal and I pull out our collapsable doggie bathing tub, put in a couple of inches of water from the hose, and cool off as we swing in the glider and splash our feet. Quick and easy summer bliss.

Do you have summer water memories or traditions? Now might be a good time for you and your kids to dip your toe, or more of you, into the water and get that blood and those good times rolling.   

Happy Failing Forward,

Anne and Calvert