Summer often brings a change of pace. The kids are out of school, schedules look different, and there may be more opportunities for vacations, outdoor activities, and time together. If you’re navigating a divorce, custody matter, or other family transition, summer can bring both joy and challenges.
One of the greatest gifts of summer is that it naturally encourages us to slow down and reconnect. Children rarely remember the elaborate plans or expensive activities. What they often remember are the simple moments—playing catch in the yard, swimming together, getting ice cream, a walk around the neighborhood, staying up a little too late watching a movie, or simply feeling your presence and attention. These moments of connection often matter far more than we realize.
Summer can also be a reminder to take care of yourself. Ongoing legal matters can create chronic stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Sunshine, movement, fresh air, and time spent outdoors can help regulate mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it helps you show up as the best version of yourself for your children and for the challenges you’re facing.
Hazel Mason
A Few Things to Remember:
- Connection matters more than creating the “perfect” summer\
- Children remember how they felt with you more than what you spent on them
- Fresh air, sunshine, and movement can have a powerful impact on stress and mood
- It’s okay to enjoy moments of peace, fun, and laughter even during difficult seasons
- Taking care of yourself emotionally helps you show up more fully for your children
- Small, consistent moments of connection often become the most meaningful memories
Whether your children are with you this summer or not, try to use the season intentionally. When they’re with you, focus on being present. When they’re not, focus on restoring yourself. Take a walk. Get outside. Connect with supportive people. Create space for activities that bring you peace and help you recharge.
A Small Practice You Can Incorporate:
Take 5 quiet minutes and ask yourself:
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What is one simple memory I’d like to create with my children this summer?
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What is one thing I can do each week to support my own well-being?
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How can I be more present for the moments that are already available to me?
Then choose one small action and put it on your calendar this week.
Keep it simple. The goal isn’t to create a perfect summer. The goal is to create meaningful moments—both for your children and for yourself.
Many people unconsciously believe: “If I’m still grieving, I shouldn’t be happy.”
But grief and joy can exist together.
Kimra Douglass
Joy is not a betrayal of your current circumstances. It is evidence that you are alive and creating forward in your life! So…What if some of this summer can just be FUN!!! And YES, this is true even though you are going through a challenging season. Even though you feel scattered and confused. Even though it is hard to even think just one thought as you brain is racing all the time.
Right now your brain is trying so hard to figure out solutions to your divorce, legal case, co-parenting; solutions on how to move, or pack, and on what to keep or what not to keep. Asking the following questions interrupts your brain. And offers it another problem to solve.
- What sounds fun?
- What haven’t I done in a while?
- What did I like when I was in high school? Or better yet elementary?
- Picture yourself. Its a hot summer afternoon and you decide to go to the local snow shack..what would your favorite snow cone flavor be?
- How would it feel to get out early and play a little pickleball or a quick game of HORSE?
KEEPING IT SIMPLE will make sure to keep some FUN to balance the really tough things of life right now.
Top 3 ways to Simplify Summer Fun:
- Create moments, not memories. Take the pressure off.
- Strengthen the relationship you have to yourself in simple ways.
- Use summer to reconnect.
- Move your body
- Spend time in nature
- Journal
- Pray
- Read uplifting books
- Take yourself on adventures
- Learn something new
Ask yourself, “What would bring me a little more joy this week?” And then do that! I bet you can taste the snow cone now!
If you are a current client of Millar Legal and are interested in scheduling a Life Coaching session, please contact Stacey at stacey@millarlegal.com for eligibility information and details on how to schedule your next session.