Summertime with the Putmans
It’s summer time, so as the mom of four kids, it means we’re running 
all over the place. The idea that during the summer life slows down doesn’t seem to fit us or any other family I’ve talked to lately. Instead, the pace of our days seems to have accelerated. Squeezing in time at the pool to play and relax is difficult, but so wonderful when we do.
Today I thought I’d share a few photos from a couple of the local excursions we’ve taken in the last couple weeks. Spontaneous times when we’ve been able slip away and have fun without the rush to get from one activity to the next.
Maybe these will inspire you to find a few ways to slip fun and relaxation into the race from activity to activity. Or if you’re an ace at relaxing, 
maybe you can give me some ideas.
Here in Lafayette we have a nice , little zoo — think of a large petting zoo with monkeys, prairie dogs, kangaroos, and more. This summer my kids have really enjoyed the goats. They’ve been adorable as they bounce around in the petting area. The boys and I went back last week to see how the goat kids have grown in the two weeks we were away.
Does your town have little surprises like this? I actually included a mention of the monkeys and the zoo in White Christmas, my Christmas novella in Where Treetops Glisten because the monkeys have been in Lafayette going back YEARS. And let me tell you — those monkeys are loud in the morning.
Another little surprise that we enjoyed was the opening of a sculpture exhibit at our local art museum. In 13 years, I haven’t taken the kids to the actual museum, but when I got an email about this opening it sounded like something we would enjoy.
An artist from Michigan made all these zoo animals and many more out of reclaimed materials. The sculptures were amazing, and we had such fun discovering what trash he had used to create them. At the same time, we enjoyed hot dogs, local root beer, cotton candy and popcorn. Somehow I have a feeling these will be the memories that stand out — at least I hope they do — more than the stressed out mom zipping them from activity to sports practice.
How are you carving out time to relax this summer?
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It sounds like you are off to a fun start! My husband is a teacher, but he still has two full weeks to go! Then, we have about one month to get ready for the birth of our second child. We will try to combine a few fun outings with our toddler with some hard work and prep around the house. (I’m definitely in nesting mode.) I don’t think we’ll get everything done that I want, but ready or not, our second child will soon come! Enjoy your summer!
Congratulations on your second child! Enjoy this time with your current only!
My kids are all grown now, Cara, but they fondly remember all the little excursions we took them on, and so will your children. Have fun!
Thanks for the reminder that these are the moments the kids remember. I truly hope we’re making some funs ones in the midst of the routine!
Love the zoo sculptures! So fun, especially the way they are posed in trees and other “habitats.” Summer is certainly busy. My kids are teens know so they can do more on their own, which is good since I still work through the summer. On the docket this year we have tennis lessons and driver’s ed for my oldest son, volunteering at the local library with organizing and running their giant book sale for my daughter, a computer class for my youngest, church camp for all three (2 different weeks), math camp for the two oldest (yes, I’m raising nerds – love it!), then summer band in August along with early theatre rehearsals for my daughter who has a part in the upcoming musical. Whew! This is why I’m so thankful my daughter can drive to help with all the shuttle service.
Your family sounds as busy (or busier!) than mine! It’s a fun, but crazy time, isn’t it? Just talking with a friend today about driver’s ed. That’s likely in our future — gulp!
What is the name of the zoo? I’m not to far from Layfayette and I think it would be fun to take a break and go explore!