Editor’s note: It’s summertime for many of us, so over the course of the next few months, we’ll be sharing a few of our summer activities. Please feel free to share yours, whether it’s currently summer for you or not!

~by Heidi

A couple of years ago, my husband and I took our children to spend a week in a castle–in California!

It had real turrets . . .

and medieval style carvings . . .

An actual dungeon . . .

weathered stone steps, slippery with moss that led down to  . . .

the moat!

We had picnics on the beach along the river . . .

played in the water that made such beautiful music, night and day . . .

played games  . . .

and enjoyed being out in nature as much as possible.

The castle was a wonderful place to stay because it was so close to the beach.

We also went for a ride on a real train . . .

spent some time at our favorite amusement park. . .

(they don’t look very amused–I think they might be nervous)

and had the chance to spend time with some favorite cousins.

Summertime is family time because we can be outdoors away from the television and other indoor distractions.

What does your family do for family time?