Embracing the Spirit of Summer
The faded image of Uncle Sam still hangs on my front door, adorned with red, white, and blue bunting, while a small flag flutters on the back landing. I’ve been too busy to take them down, but let’s be honest—part of me just doesn’t want the holidays to end. Even if they weren’t perfect, there’s something special about the lingering warmth of summer.
This year’s Fourth of July in Never Never Land was filled with bands and barbecues, but it wasn’t without its challenges. The celebration was somewhat overshadowed by the fact that the band didn’t play any patriotic songs. There was no “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” not a single note of “Stars and Stripes Forever,” and even “You’re a Grand Old Flag” was absent. The audience, mostly people over 70, grew restless when the young band leader admitted they didn’t know any of those old songs. Instead, they played Snoopy’s theme from the Peanuts movie. Well, okay, but it just wasn’t the same. There’s no denying it—summer is halfway through, and the second half needs to be good.
Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of reasons to celebrate. July 13 is National Beans and Franks Day, a perfect time to relax and enjoy some classic comfort food. And because a revered editor once told me that stories are always better with animals, we have several opportunities for animal-themed celebrations. We’ve missed National Koi Day (July 7) and National Kitten Day (July 10), but there are still events like I Love Horses Day (July 15), National Pet Fire Safety Day (July 15), World Snake Day (July 16), and National Dog Photography Day (July 26).
There’s something about these long, hot days that makes you want to try something different. I remember the long-suffering policeman who stopped my newly licensed mother in Spokane and said, “Now, Marion, you must choose one side of the street or the other. You cannot drive on both sides.” He didn’t give her a ticket, but I’m betting he would have in October. In fact, I think he did.
These are learning days for all of us. I recall rushing from my son’s wedding in mid-July, and it wasn’t in a Catholic Church. I was shocked and horrified. I’d always thought the children would marry in our church. I ran to my pastor in tears, thinking he could order the miscreant home. Instead, he said, “You know, you don’t get to say what’s right for your son. You have raised a good man, and now the journey is his.” That was the best advice I ever received, and it had immeasurable value as I watched my children set off on their own journeys.
One last suggestion: August 1 is National Respect for Parents Day. If you’re wondering how to celebrate, maybe show appreciation for the good advice you’ve received over the years. August 1 is also National Water Balloon Day, which gives you a chance to show recognition for the bad advice as well by drenching your parents.
I wish you’d come with me while I take down the Fourth of July decorations. Maybe we could make some ice cream a little later. I know I saw the freezer in the back closet. There’s plenty to celebrate, and September is far away.
Fun Activities to Try This Summer
If you’re looking for something new to do this summer, here are a few ideas:
- Alternate Celebrations: Try making personalized fortune cookies for a family event. Collect fortunes written by the whole family, and use a damp paper towel and microwave to open them. It’s a slow project, so having help is a good idea.
- Learning Days: Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow. Whether it’s about family traditions or personal growth, there’s always something new to discover.
- Animal-Themed Events: Take part in local celebrations that honor animals, such as National Koi Day or World Snake Day.
Resources for More Information
For more information on summer activities and events, check out the following:
- Swimming Upstream podcast
- It’s Never Too Late on illegal fireworks
- Coffee Chat and Change the World
- Coffee Chat and Change the World on YouTube
Contact Dorothy at [email protected] for more updates and insights. Stay tuned for the latest local, national, and international news delivered every weekday morning.
