School is officially out for the summer, and my children aren’t the only ones who are thrilled to take a break. I am doing the happy dance! Taking a respite from the rigid routine of getting up extra early, fixing lunches, and especially nudging my kids to do their homework is so welcomed.
But the lazy, hazy days of summertime are also a chance to explore. There are so many adventures waiting that don’t require a long road trip across the country or flying the somewhat unfriendly skies these days. Explore your community by visiting museums or maybe taking a mini road trip to Little Rock. We provide suggestions on “backyard getaways” in Summer Family Fun on page 20.
Speaking of summer, taking in a Memphis Redbirds game is a fun way to spend a day. But for one dad it is more than just fun and games. Stubby Clapp, the Redbirds manager and a beloved sports figure in the River City, talks about what it’s like being a dad. We also speak with and get insight from Mike Norvall, the University of Memphis football coach, on the joys of fatherhood in Sporting Dads on page 16.
To all the doting dads out there, Happy Father’s Day! Go ahead, get the big piece of chicken. That’s what my kids always jokingly say to their dad, John. He gets the big piece of chicken. It’s their small way of showing their big appreciation for all that he does, like stealing away for a quick 3-day weekend to the beach. I love this photo of him with our daughter, Bliss. He’s playing in the sand with her, and what you don’t see off to the side is our boys covered in sand up to their necks. He had just finished burying them as requested. But you don’t have to physically go anywhere, you just have to be “present” wherever you are. So enjoy this summer with your kids. As the saying goes, you’ve only got 18 summers with them.
Happy Parenting!