Own The Summer

Wisconsin summers are short. I think last year it was on a Tuesday.

All jokes aside, summer is one of the best times of the year — and since it doesn't last long, you have to make the most of it. There's no better season to get outside with your kids.

It has been a perfect time to get The Outdoor Dad Co off the ground. All of our current packages are built around one idea — removing the friction between you and getting outside with your family. Right now they're all perfect summer activities, and we have new packages coming as the seasons change. It's been an exciting week. First bookings are in and the buzz is starting to build.

That said, summer has a way of flying by. Busy schedules, work — I'm writing this from the Omaha airport right now — and an all too short window of time make it worth having a framework to actually maximize the season.

Gavin wrapped up his first year of school this week. Proud 3K graduate. With his late birthday though, we're sending him right back to pre-K to set him up for success. Lexi is thrilled to have a built-in playmate home every day. With summer childcare happening at our house, it's hard not to get excited about what's ahead. The G-Lex Poolplex — Gavin and Lexi's kiddie pool oasis — is already in full swing. The garage is packed with sidewalk chalk, bikes, and toys everywhere. The deck is set up as the ultimate summer hangout overlooking the backyard swingset.

Summer is supposed to be about recharging, relaxing, and having fun. Overscheduling is not the move.

So I just dropped something free on the website — Own The Summer. Fifty things to do outside with your kids before Labor Day, on your terms. A running list of simple ideas to get outside without overplanning or breaking the bank — pool days, bike rides, lightning bugs, and at least one outdoor movie night under the stars.

Check things off as you go. The list lives on the website and keeps your score in the browser all summer long. Not that dads are ever competitive — but just in case, it tracks your summer score and the levels of achievement that come with it.

Simple. Practical. Slightly competitive.

Get Outside. 🦆

Bonfireside Chats, Vol. 3

Adam | Founder, The Outdoor Dad Co