July is the quintessential summer month. Long days, hot sun, lots of summer fun.
But what is August? The days do seem shorter — no more long summer dusks that stretch bedtimes. And the hot summer sun is displaced by those hazy humid days. Is that a hint of Fall in the air?
For my little grands, mid-August signals the start of school. Summer fun now is wedged around back-to-school preparations. Parents feel the shift as much as the children.
I so love July. Even as a retired teacher — when every day is like a holiday — July is special. August signals the end of that care-free spirit as we all turn our sights to “business” that is coming up — meetings and programs, and …school.
I suppose seasons are good for our souls, reminding us that life is a cycle: a time to play, a time to work. Reminding us that we are on a journey with restful moments along the way that restores our energy to carry on with what must be done.
In this frame of mind, Jayne offers a clever activity this month, “Pooh Stick” Ice Ships! Remember how Winnie the Pooh and friends raced sticks that they dropped from a bridge into the creek? They would scramble to the other side of the bridge to see which sticks floated out from under the bridge.
Jayne’s children and their buddies have created ice boats to sail in their creek. Or sail the backyard pool — or the tub at bath time! See Activity page.
What a perfect metaphor for August. These little ice boats sail off into a new adventure before they — Summer — melt away.
Ah, but there is no reason to feel sad, not when new adventures are coming. Like planning for that great Fall Funfest called Halloween!
Welcome, August as we summer our way into a new season.
