Memories of Summer Simplicity

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There are some moments that I wish I could just slow down or put on pause. Between all of the bickering and hollering from the kids - it can wear me out. But with summertime approaching generally comes better spirits as the days are longer and there is more leisure time for their freedom.

In the summer there seems to be more moments when they are all getting along and playing nicely together. It's those moments where I have a huge sigh of relief and know that I must be doing something right. These moments are truly a mother's bliss.

You see, every moment becomes a memory, and I want my kids to look back someday and remember all of the little things - not just the big milestones. 

Sometimes the simplest ordinary days of childhood create the biggest impact on adulthood. 

Some of my favorite memories growing up were of my sister and I exploring the great outdoors in the summer. We'd roam on our property playing pretend, jumping out of swings, laying in the sun eating warm blackberries by a tiny creek, and smelling the lilacs and wild roses blooming.

Occasionally we'd create little picnics in our yard and feast. It wouldn't be anything fancy or even traditional, but we'd still gather little meals and place everything on our blankets and bask in the sunshine. Our favorite parts of these little picnics of course were the #SummerGoodies we ate - and ice cream was usually our favorite.

The funny thing is now that I'm a mom it's those same moments - the moments when my children are having picnics and exploring the great unknown - those are my new memories in the making. I'll grumble at them when I see them drag another blanket outside or pack 4 pillows out when I told them one, but inside I'm happily reliving my childhood - and longing to go back to those days of simplicity.

They'll ask me to make them their favorite foods for lunch, like Jack's Pizza (which is actually quick and easy to cook right on the grill), then they will give me big puppy dog eyes because they know I've got a stash of Nestle DrumStick Crunch Dipped Cones in the freezer for a treat afterwards. You can find both of these items at Walmart in the freezer sections and they are perfect to stock up on for those special kid picnics.

Don't always let your adult judgement create more chaos and arguments. Let them have fun sometimes. The blankets will get dirty, the clothes will be covered in ice cream, and you'll be doing extra laundry later - but trust me. These memories will outlast anything else.

These little picnics and childhood traditions are priceless.

Thanks #CollectiveBias for the wonderful opportunity! If you've never grilled a Jacks' Pizza before, you can find complete instructions HERE.

~Melissa