Empowering Summer Adventures

Summer is my favorite time of the year. Even as a kid I loved the summer. There was more time to explore and test new skills. With a friend or two, we would explore the neighborhood, play games, ride our bikes, and even had our own little business selling blackberries.

As a mom, I tried to give my kids the same freedom as long as they followed the simple house rules that we had all agreed to. They had to tell me where they were going, when they would be home, and who else would be with them. And never leave the house without telling me.

It’s not always easy to let them out of sight, but I’ve learned that it’s better to let kids make mistakes when you are close by and can help them out of a jam. They’re going to make mistakes. We all do. That’s how we learn. That’s also how we discover new things and maybe even find a life-long passion.

So, let go if you can. Start small. Let your kids play in the mud in your backyard, or on your deck. A hose will wash away the dirt. Help them learn to observe their surroundings and see that they are only a small part of something much bigger.

Volunteer, get a job, get out of the house. Learning doesn’t stop when school is out. Give your children the opportunity to try new things and enjoy free time during the summer.

AlpenOutdoors.com

It's a women-owned company that makes gear for women. They asked me to test out their pants and I love them. I'm often in the woods and these pants have been great, especially the pockets that are perfect for stashing a phone or camera.

The 142nd Maryland State Fair presented by Toyota will be in full swing for three big weekends this year: Thursday, August 24 through Sunday, August 27; Thursday, August 31 through Monday, September 4; and Thursday, September 7 through Sunday, September 10 at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium.

Donna Jefferson, Publisher DJ@jecoannapolis.com

Maryland 4-H/FFA and Open Class (general public) exhibitors may pre-register their entries online now through July 31 to compete for ribbons, prizes and bragging rights. marylandstatefair.com.

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