Before I got completely into lazy summer mode, I decided to write a “to do” list of things I want and need to get done this summer. I thought I’d share a few things from my very long list with you- these are events, places, and things I want to do… right in the community!

1. Survive parent-child UH Men’s Basketball Camp! The camp’s this Sunday, June 14 from 5-7pm, and it’s designed “for the family!” Here’s the description of the camp that’s on the flyer:

Parents (Mom or Dad) and their children will participate together in stretching, drills and games while building and strengthening their bond and love for basketball and each other. Dinner will also be provided with the coaching staff.”

Normally, this would totally be a thing for my husband to do with my stepson, Kainalu. However, he’s sitting an Open House so we’re tag teaming it- I get the first half with Kai. I’m going to try not to embarrass him (or myself) too badly! If you’re interested in attending the camp, you can still register online, but make sure to do it today!

From the parent-child basketball camp two years ago- it was a lot of fun! Of course, I was only there to take pictures last time!

If basketball’s not your thing, check out the other camps that the UH athletic department is offering this summer! One of them might be right for you!

2. Enjoy my favorite Manoa Public Library before it closes its doors for renovations on Thursday, July 2, 2009. AND here’s an exclusive for you blog readers- the library will welcome the community back in for a major book sale on July 25 (from 10am-5pm) and July 26 (from 1-4pm)! I can’t wait for the sale, as I’m hoping to pick up some books for my classroom library AND for myself!

Remember to be a part of the library’s special history by picking up an acid-free cardstock, recording your memories (artwork and/or written thoughts about the library), and submitting it to the library. Here are some of the pieces they’ve already received- aren’t they fantastic?

The library also needs donations of boxes that they will use to pack books and transfer to the temporary library. The perfect sized boxes are approximately 18 by 12 inches and 10 inches high (you should be able to get your arms around them). The boxes should also be closable. You can drop off your boxes at the library.

3. Treat myself! My new favorite community treat? Delicious gelato at the new Milano Freezer at Manoa Marketplace!

Delicious!

4. Attend this year’s Rediscover Makiki event on July 25-26! There will be more details about this event in a future blog, but make sure to mark your calendars now! There will be food booths, keiki activities, and much more fun for the family. The sunset movies showing will be Kung Fu Panda on Friday evening and an edited version of Ironman on Saturday evening.

5. Start a writing club for kids in the community! My idea was to set a day and time, I was thinking of Thursdays (during the summer) from 2-4pm, for kids (ages 8-13) in the community to meet and write together. We’d go through the writing process as we write a variety of pieces, and I’d have the chance to try some new writing lesson ideas with them. The club would be free, with the kids only needing to bring paper and a pencil. I’d need at least eight kids to get the club going- if you are interested, please e-mail me!

I’d love to hear your “to do” summer list! Also, if you know about any community events or places to visit this summer, please share them here!