Happy Summer to you!
Now that the school year has wrapped up and the sports seasons are winding down, I'm finally coming up for air! It was a full and wonderful spring and I'm so glad to be back in your inbox. I hope the rest of your spring went well and that you’re now starting to enjoy your summer!
One of the first evenings after school got out, I ended up outside at our patio table with the kids just relaxing. I took the opportunity to ask everyone one simple question that I’d been thinking about… “What's on your summer bucket list?” I grabbed my hubby to join in so we could all participate.
It ended up being a super special moment to be a part of as each shared. One of our kids immediately said running and soccer at least five days a week! Another lit up talking about fishing and camping. Most everyone mentioned wanting to be on the lake, swimming and boating. Time with friends came up for everyone. And my oldest, who is navigating this exciting new chapter as a young adult, is focused on passing his NREMT exam.
Then it was my turn. Paddleboarding. Hiking. Camping. Coffee and walks with friends. A few really good books. Lots of BBQs. Just sharing my list made me smile.
Here's what I know as a neuro-coach: when we take time to name what we actually want, something shifts in the brain. We move from reacting to life to intentionally creating it. Anticipation activates the brain's reward system and genuinely improves mood and motivation. And when a family shares their hopes out loud, it builds connection in a way that no screen ever could.
Whether you have kids at home, have an empty nest, or somewhere in between, this season is an invitation to be intentional about how you spend your time and with whom.
Here are 3 simple ways to make this a summer to remember:
Create your family bucket list together. Sit outside, put the phones down, and ask everyone to share two or three things they'd love to do this summer. Write them down. You'll be surprised what you learn about the people you love most.
Make your own list too. Not the mom list. YOUR list. What would genuinely fill your cup this summer? A hobby you've been putting off? More time outdoors? A day trip? You matter in this season too and naming it is the first step to making it happen.
Let go of the pressure to do it all. A great summer doesn't require a packed calendar. Some of the best moments happen in the in-between. A spontaneous evening walk. A long conversation on the porch. Permission to just be present is sometimes the greatest gift you can give yourself and your family.
📖 "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24
There’s something in each day that we can hold onto and savor! Let’s enjoy this summer as we start considering how and when to take the actions on our bucket lists!
Emily 
