Every summer tends to bring a different vibe to it. I remember being in my early 20s and not spending a single weekend in my own bed, spending as much time as possible up and about. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found a better balance between busy and restful. Summers with kids has been absolutely amazing to experience. In the first part, the sheer amazement of new experiences for things I take for granted. The joy of discovery is certainly contagious. Then there’s the purity of it all, the near complete lack of stress and just plain enjoyment without thinking about bills, or work, or some stupid junk. And really, the best part about kids is the simple desire to just have fun. Almost all of them have that drive.

This summer has been a different pace. It’s been much less hectic and simply providing a space to relax with friends and family. Much less time in the car going to places, and more time just appreciating what we have. It’s been good.

In the gaming space, not a whole lot to report on. My gaming laptop has been on the shelf for a month+. The Steam Deck is the go-to device, and the sheer amount of games that are validated is quite mind blowing. The summer months push for portability and flexibility. I’ll get a small block of time while having a coffee waiting for the family to wake. It means that only a certain type of game works, and strategy ain’t on the list! Rogue-lites fit the bill properly. And the Kingdom Hearts series had a deep discount. In the fall, when the kids are back in school, I can give the FF14 expansion a shot.

Still a lot of time left to enjoy the summer months. I hope everyone (that is experiencing summer months) is able to take full advantage!