What I've learned about myself...

I know summer should be all about relaxing and resting...but I have discovered something about my personality. I am happiest when I have a lot to do! I know it sounds crazy, but I think I inherited this gene from my Dad, and it's called - the work gene. In the first few days of summer, I quickly find that if I'm without a "schedule" of some sort, I get lethargic and almost despondent. Yes, I love having the time to spend with my children, but I even feel the need to organize their days when I'm home. Many of my friends often ask me why I choose to do the things I do in the summer (i.e. teach summer college classes 2 evenings a week, work as the swimming pool relief operator, sign on to make jellies and jams for myself and others, etc.), but the simple fact is that if I have goals to get accomplished, I really am a happier person. None of this means that I don't enjoy "summer" things like swimming with my kids, reading, gardening, and cookouts with friends, but I just always have this "to do" list or project in the background which helps keep me oriented. Now I know the answer to the question I've often asked my father, "Why can't you just sit still and relax?" Oh well...