The Lazy Days of Summer and the Fresh Air Fund

Whatever happened to the lazy days of Summer? I sure as heck haven't had one in years, but that's what happens when you become a SAHD, you forsake your time so that the kids can have theirs. It's a small price to pay when you really get down to it.

The kids have been having a great Summer thus far, but it has been a marathon for mom and dad. Non-stop deadlines and activities, I've never really experienced anything like it, but man are they having fun. Not only having great life experiences, but making new friends and exploring different areas of interest so that will hopefully speak to them. It's amazingly wonderful to see, and as much as it's been crazy for us, the parents, it's just great to see your kids find something that stokes their passion. I love it, and would work twice as hard if it meant that the kids had a fun and meaningful time. Sure, I'd whine and moan about it, but what else is new?

Speaking of Summer, I remember living in New York City and how a lot of kids who grow up there never really get a chance to be in a natural setting other than Central Park. Believe it or not, there are kids up here in VT/NH who have never even been on a farm or spent any time in the woods, a fact that astounds me. Whatever be the case, there are people who are trying to change this and give them a chance to experience what it really means to be outdoors.

One organization whose work really made a difference in the lives of these kids is the Fresh Air Fund. They had a prominent presence in New York when I lived there, and are active throughout the Northeast and New England. We have friends who host a child every year, and they love it. In fact, the Fresh Air Fund is always looking for families who are willing to help out and take in a child over the Summer. Their work literally changes lives, and I would encourage anyone who has the time and wherewithal to at least check out this site: Fresh Air Fund Hosts.

When you really get down to it, these kids never really get to experience what is a part of our daily lives, and the positive impact that it has on their lives cannot be overstated, not to mention how gratifying it can be for host families. In fact, many kids are asked back by their host families year after year.

Just remember, it's never too much work to make a difference in a child's life.

Until the next time, thanks for reading, and thanks to Horton Group for the pic.