Summertime for the grandkids.
It was the best of times and it
stayed that way, with a few bumps here and there. As their ever-observant Papa
would comment: “Welcome to the beginning of a lifetime of learning.” It’s
summer time and my grandchildren are knee deep in jobs, sports and learning
about life in general.
Unfortunately, when I was
growing up, there were few if any (that my mother was aware of) summer camps,
youth athletic events or school/church summertime youth programs. Even if she
was aware of them, I’m sure my mother didn’t have the money to send us there.
So, my sister and I were left home alone while my mother worked. We got very bored. The routine was to get up late, watch Mel Jazz ‘Afternoon at the Movies’ on WTCN, Channel 11. Then waste the rest of the day doing nothing or something stupid. What a waste a youth. Thank heavens, it’s not the same with my grandkids.
As they were growing up, Sharon and I told our two kids that they weren’t allowed to work during the school year but were expected to stay busy during the summer months. After they both got tired of summer camps and were of the age, Brian and Melanie were told to get a job for the summer. It wasn’t for the money as much as the experience entailed in working with and for other people.
Now as adults themselves, both Brian and Melanie have taken their own tailored approach to summer activities for their own kids. Sharon and I are proud of both approaches they’ve taken.
Maya has discovered her dream job, becoming a star sales person for the Nature Conservancy. She believes deeply in their program, philosophy, goals, and agendas. She’s found that she loves talking to people and nature and the environment. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that she’s in Colorado where everyone drives a Subaru Outback with a dog inside.
Spencer works at Starbucks part time and has a side hustle working for a landscaping company. He’s become a seasoned barista, whipping up your standard as well as tailored drinks for customers. He’s discovered one of the great truths of life. Some customers are just plain weird.
Samantha is a camp counselor at Life time Fitness, does dog-walking (yep, that’s a business) and, of course, babysitting. She’s also branched out into doing work as a Nanny and still finds time for cross-country training for school.
Melanie and Scott have taken a different approach to summer activities
for their kids.
Brennan is playing soccer for his club and high school team, going to hockey and tennis practices this summer. Between practice and performance, he’s also completing volunteer work for National Honor Society.
Charlotte is also playing soccer and hockey this summer and augmenting those activities with a plethora of side hustles. She is baby-sitting, dog walking and doing yard work for the neighbors. She’s also found time for two weeks roughing it in Isle Royale National Park; a part of the Boundary Waters Wilderness.
While all my grandchildren are very busy, each is taking a different approach to spending the summer months. There will still be time for family vacations, personal endeavors and time spent with friends. The activities are a reflection of both parents who care deeply that their kids make the best use of their time during the summer months. Two different philosophies based on their own value system and best interest for their kids
Our grandchildren benefit either way and we couldn’t be happier.