Of course I use my summers to plan and prepare for next school year. But what I cherish most about summer is the uninterrupted, quality time I get to spend with my family.

Although I once wrote about balancing motherhood and teaching, it is not always easy during the busy school year. The summer is a different story, however. We plan lots of family trips, and I look so forward to days filled with play dates, picnics, swimming, trips to Dairy Queen, and evening walks to the park.

There is nothing more "productive" than the time you spend with your family! So, take lots of time this summer to relax and enjoy being with your friends and family. That is my #1 goal for myself!