The month of June seared the pages of 2011 with gusto, breaking record-holding temperatures along much of the east coast. Don’t let the premature heat get you down; technically, it’s not even summer yet! Celebrate some of these cool holidays with your family; make warm memories with loved ones, and enjoy every moment of the summer season.
    Tennis Shoe Day – Lace up the sneakers and go for an early morning family hike. Add some creativity to your steps by purchasing some new laces and coloring them with various shades of permanent markers or fabric dye.
    Father’s Day – Surprise Dad with his favorite breakfast or a freshly mowed lawn. Take him to his favorite restaurant for lunch or prepare a picnic basket for the park. Rent an old movie or take in a new family one. Find special ways to let Dad know that you appreciate him and remember to to tell him just how much he means to the family!
    America the Beautiful Week – Where is the most beautiful location you’ve visited in the U.S.? Do you have pictures to prove it? Google “America scenery photograph” and find stunning images of locations all across our beautiful nation. See how many places you recognize and use the photos to plan a dream vacation for your family.
    Tightrope Walk Day – Do you know the word “funambulism”? On June 30, 1859, a funambulist crossed Niagara Falls by walking a tightrope. See how many interesting professional names, like “milliner” or “entomologist” you can discover and define. Then, lay a long jump rope (or piece of yarn) on the ground and practice the art of funambulism.
    Insect Appreciation Day – Take a blanket outside, lie on your tummy or crouch on hands and knees and search for God’s six-legged creatures. How many crawling ones can you identify? Scan the air for intricately painted butterflies looking for nectar. Head outside again just as darkness falls. Sit on the porch with a light on and watch for other flying insects. Do you know the difference between a butterfly and a moth? (Dab on some bug spray to keep those blood-sucking flying mosquitoes from your body, if needed!) Be on the lookout for twinkling lights near the edge of the woods. Once spotted, go for a firefly chase. Catch a couple in a jar and watch them shine. Then, open the lid and return them to their adventures.
    World Juggling Day – Just when you get finished juggling homework, extracurricular activities, bus schedules, and sack lunches, world juggling day arrives! Learn to juggle something besides a busy calendar, like tennis balls or other small balls. Start with two balls and move from hand to hand, then try adding a third ball. Are you ready for the stage yet? Not me – I can’t even toss two with grace and coordination. But, it’s fun trying!
    Fill the days of June with adventure amazement. Sleep late, stay up late, enjoy sunshine and swimming, make slushies and Smoothies, build sandcastles and create luscious snacks. Make incredible memories with those you love.     
    
     Statesboro native Julie Bland Lavender celebrates with husband David and children Jeremy, Jenifer, Jeb Daniel, and Jessica.