Heat of summer

We have now entered into the summer months and it seems as though we are effectively, speeding through life. Graduations, festivals, weddings, family gatherings, the Fourth of July and so many other events will have occupied nights and weekends by the time summer is over.

There are times where I ask myself: When did I get so busy? I remember growing up about eight miles west of Colby and the only time I had something going on was if I biked into town to hang out with friends. My parents both worked during the day and so once we were old enough to stay home without a babysitter, we were left to fend for ourselves.

My summers usually consisted of hanging out with my two brothers. We played baseball catch, went to the Atwood ball diamond to hit baseballs and softballs, watched TV, and made a paintball course in the woods behind our house. I didn’t appreciate the chillness of those times then but now, it seems like it probably wasn’t that bad.

Don’t get me wrong, I love supporting those around us and enjoying catching up with friends, family and people we haven’t seen in a long time through all the events summer has to offer. I’ve just learned to appreciate the down time we get.

Maybe I just sour on summer because I prefer the spring and fall months where the seasons are changing and it doesn’t feel like I have to chew my oxygen.

Anyway, there’s plenty to look forward to in terms of summer sports. My softball seasons are in full swing and there are plenty of great tournaments that have already taken place or that will take place throughout the summer.

Brewers baseball is entering the dog days of summer and my hope is that I can get to a game or two to tailgate and enjoy the great atmosphere at American Family Field.

My family goes camping quite a bit so getting to head out to wherever they’re at in the state is always a treat. It’s usually an excuse to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and just appreciate nature and the company we’re with. My parents have not so subtly tried to get us into camping over the past couple years as they have dedicated multiple Christmas and birthday gifts towards giving us all the gear we might need to go camping.

We now have a tent, cooler, cast iron pie makers, an air mattress and other miscellaneous camping equipment. Now, all that’s left is to actually get the time to schedule the trip.

SPEEDING

THROUGH

L

IFE

NEAL H OGDEN EDITOR