Karina Jones

While I highly doubt that anyone has to “split the rhubarb and lilies equally” in their will, it is these living things that are so valuable to me that I hope my kids cherish more than diamonds and gold. 

We will pitch a tent in the yard, swim in the local river, grab yummy drinks at some of our favorite coffee shops along the trails we travel, lay underneath these Sandhills stars, and breathe in this life that we are blessed with. 

Having the confidence to keep my cool, and “Think, Don’t Sink,” was a difference maker in this situation. I’m not saying my front crawl technique was perfect, but I was able to make it to dry ground on my own accord because the family company I had that day was not really lifeguard material. 

As I left off yesterday, I can tell you from first hand experience how important swimming lessons are, even for ranch kids who may never hit the pool other than that week of summer lessons.   

I really encourage all parents to check into their local swimming pools to see what swimming lesson opportunities are offered. I know that summer tends to fly by, but I really feel that you will never regret empowering your kids to become more confident in the water.  

Breathe in and breathe out every moment of this summer. Kick the stressful parts to curb and enjoy the season. Just enjoy the summer on your own terms.

So, let’s not just shuffle through this Memorial Day. Let us all come out on the other side of this treasured holiday with a vow to be the best we can be for our country, our communities, and our family. Some gave their lives being the ultimate American, I know I can do my part to give a little bit more. 

Living where we do and marching to the life we live is pretty isolating and I’ve come to say that in an endearing way. Our thoughts and every move are in a vacuum this time of year and revolve around cattle work, only this year the weight of the drought is compounding our regular stress.

At 3:45 this morning I got up and out of bed to go get a drink. My husband asked me what was wrong, and I shot back, “This night just won’t end and I just can’t get to sleep.” And that is how I feel about this drought, “It just won’t end!”