Hi Neighbor!

What are your summer plans? Last summer my “plans” were simple: survive. The horror show otherwise known as virtual schooling had ended, but our summer prospects seemed shaky at best. Then, our pool reopened earlier than expected, we booked a beach trip and a few camp options appeared in my inbox, which were essential for my bored and restless middle daughter. We ended up having a summer that was kind of fun (as much fun as you can have during a global pandemic). In a weird way, the lack of options helped, and most days the choice was clear (i.e., stay home and strangle one another or go to the pool). We were grateful for anything that was open, and there was a peaceful, simple rhythm to our days.

But this summer feels very different. Three-fifths of my crew are vaccinated, masks are being tossed aside (sort of—still can’t figure that one out yet) and there’s a sense of lightness and optimism in the air. Everyone seems to be standing taller, lingering more and worrying less. And yet, I’m still not 100% sure what this summer should look like. Should we stay mindful of the lessons of last summer and take it slow, knowing that a busy life doesn’t always equal a happy one? Or should we make up for lost time and seize every opportunity that comes our way? For now I’ve settled on a hybrid approach, meaning we’ll do more than last summer but not so much that we’re limping into Labor Day. Most summers I struggle to strike the right balance between boredom and busyness. Maybe this summer I’ll finally find our happy medium? (Probably not.) In the meantime, go easy on yourself, neighbor; coming out of a pandemic can feel just as bewildering as being stuck in one.

Stay Cool,
Kate

P.S. We’re so excited about this summer that we put together the MainLine Neighbor’s Summer Bucket List: 101 Things to Do.

Download and print the list here, check them off one by one, and ENJOY! We’ll see you out there!

We know there are many other things that didn’t make the list and we would love to hear from YOU on what we’ve missed. Please comment below to add it to our blog and share it with a neighbor!

And a special thanks to our Conestoga interns – Justin, Max and Ted – who helped compile the list!