” I CAN FEEL A SUNSHINE STEALING INTO MY SOUL AND MAKING IT ALL SUMMER.” EMILY DICKINSON

The season of summer has traditionally been the time of year when I am out of the classroom. As a child, growing up on a ranch in southeastern Montana, while there were always parental boundaries, and expected chores to complete daily, summertime was the opportunity to be curious, to learn about the world around me, whether in nature, or from a book. I’d spend time outside, usually with my siblings, exploring: building a fort, digging a hole, collecting rocks, and artifact from the earth, or riding bikes on gumbo rutted roads. When the intensity of sunshine became too much, I would find shade, and a book.

As I grew into my teen years there were 4-H activities, summer camp, as well as a good book. Going to the library to check out a two week supply of books was part of the summer routine. My Mom was brilliant in seeing that we had plenty of books to read. Visiting the library meant that I could enjoy cool comfort, while I browsed the stacks looking for books to devour. Reading books during the summer months was a gift of freedom. Reading nurtured my curiosity, and engaged me in expanding the horizons of my world.

As an adult, an educator, and now as an author, the joy of summer reading continues to expand. The gift of freedom that my mom gave to me, I now want to share with a new generation. My new children’s book, A Magical Summer Day is a culmination of a lifetime of summer reading. And yet, this is just the beginning…

THREE VISTAS

Summer is for growing: roses, a summer read, Zeus the Spruce.

TWO THOUGHTFUL THREAD

• I am thrilled to share a recent thoughtful conversation with John Masiulionis of PR From the Heart with you. Click on the link to enjoy the conversation. https://youtu.be/qxcjcDYnFtg?si=O3FRlHYSMEd5fWj1
• Questions for reflection. Is the season of summer a different routine for you? How will you make summer magical this year? What tiny tweak will you make in your life to bring delight into everyday? How will you make a positive difference in the life of another human?

ONE HISTORICAL SNIPPET

Did you know that Father’s Day became a permanent United States national holiday in 1972? While Father’s Day was generally support throughout the country, it wasn’t until May 1, 1972 , when President Richard Nixon signed a law declaring the third Sunday of June as the annual celebration of Fatherhood. For further, fascinating history about Father’s Day , and its’ impact internationally, enjoy this link. https://www.almanac.com/content/when-fathers-day