Kickball and summer fun

Wohoo, summer is on its way. Growing up a native in south florida, I am one of the few that LOVE summer time! I love the really long days, sitting in the pool, going to the beach, grilling out almost every day, Annie's ice, hot runs in the early morning, the anticipation of college football, vacations... and on and on. Most of my best childhood memories are from summer. And after the last few nights, I think my kids' best memories will be from summer too!
We are blessed to live on a cul de sac that we share with my brother and sister in- law. They have three kids. During these late afternoons, the kids will play until 8 at night. They build forts, play toss up and tackle, ride bikes and everything else they can think of. No TV, no video games, ipods or anything else electronic!!! For the past three years we have had nightly kickball games. Last night we had adults vs. kids. Even Trent's parents got in on the action. We had people riding by on their bikes stopping in and getting in on the action. The youngest player was Dash (2 1/2) and the oldest was Charlie (wont say his age- but he is the patriarch of the Edwards' family). We had 3 generations going at it. We played forever and laughed hysterically. There were tears, high fives, giggles, hugs and everything else that comes with healthy competition. Memories aren't bought, or given as reward for good behavior and they aren't going to go out of style. Memories are one of the best gifts you can give your children. They are the things that your children look back at and grasp onto when they begin to doubt their place in the world. They are the things that show them God's love. They are the things they will use to teach the next generation about family ties. Memories are all we have to hold onto when time keeps ticking. Make sure yours are ones your children and parents will treasure.