Vacations, travel, sight-seeing, swimming at beaches, visiting museums, and even going to sporting events – these are great summer activities. ENJOY!! Absorbing vitamin D, which the sun provides, is a great way to feel better about yourself and life in general. Vitamin D is the feel-good vitamin. Also, staying active and physically fit is a way to help you to feel good. Additionally, learning history, appreciating the beauty of nature, and finding stimulation in the arts are equally important activities for young and old.

      I pray that you and your family are able to make some fun and stimulating activities an important and regular part of the summer months and throughout the year. You do not need to travel far or plan extravagant vacations. Our local history, outdoor activities and culture can be very interesting. For instance, currently The Neville Museum in Green Bay is featuring an exhibit called “Estamos Aquí” and it “features personal stories and artifacts from many Latino families living in Northeast Wisconsin. This bilingual exhibit celebrates the diverse cultures and traditions that have endured emigration from across Latin America.” (from the website). We would all do well to learn more about this history which is our Wisconsin history.

      Furthermore, there is an “Alice in Dairyland” exhibit about Wisconsin people and the importance of the dairy industry. The website states: “In 1948, the first Alice in Dairyland was crowned in celebration of Wisconsin’s centennial. Each year since, one Wisconsin woman has been selected to become “Alice.” Alice may have started as a beauty queen but today she is an educated and experienced public relations professional. These days, Alice travels the state educating audiences about the $88 billion economic impact and importance of Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture industry.”

      Some of my sisters and classmates participated in local Alice in Dairyland contests. This exhibit tells the history of the contest and features the dairy industry history as well.

      Summer is not the time, however, to vacation from your faith! I would not be a good pastor if I did not also tell you about the importance of nurturing and fostering your spiritual lives, all year! Sharing with your parish faith community in prayer, worship, and relationship-building activities is a life-long responsibility. Do not forget your parish community and your own need to continue to build your relationship with God. Summer is not a time to vacation from God.

Peace Fr. Andy