It seems that we skipped spring this year and those April showers ran right through May and June! As I write this, the sun is shining . . . but how long before the rain begins again, we don't know! Thunderstorms and scattered showers are in the forecast for the next seven days or so. As an agricultural area, we are glad for the moisture, but those fruits and vegetables also need to feel some warm rays of sunshine for a bit, too. Oh well, here's hoping we'll have some of the sunshine we're accustomed to for Woodstown's 4th of July Parade. Look for our Harvest float and our smiling team members.

       Activities like the Woodstown parade are not only great ways to spend time with family members, but also inexpensive mini vacations. They offer great brief getaways that won't break your budget, something that's so important these days. When was the last time you packed up some sandwiches, fruit and cupcakes and headed off for a picnic? I remember the fun we had as kids going to different parks (or even the backyard - the bathroom's closer) and spending the day with family and friends, just enjoying being outdoors enjoying nature and a sloppy slice of watermelon or my mom's slippery ham sandwiches! She loved to slather on the butter.

       So, if you can't afford to go to a "formal" vacation, try going on mini getaways. The backyard is more than just a big patch of grass to mow. Borrow a tent or make one of your own and enjoy a night under the stars (when it's not supposed to rain). Go for a hike or a drive to some place new and different. Take lots of pictures, actually listen to each other, play games, and make some memories together ---instead of running up credit card bills.