MOTM. Fourth fun. Wading.

Happy Monday (plus one day), Valley Moms!

🤣 Today is International Joke Day! What’s your best mom joke?

👀 In this week’s issue:

• Momming in the sun

• Relaxing family fun (no, it’s not a joke)

• A lesser-known way to cool off

Up first…

MOTHERHOOD

Somewhere between chaos and calling

Being a mom in the summer is a little like living at summer camp… except you’re the counselor, the snack bar, the activities director, and the lifeguard — and no one ever goes home.

It’s popsicle-stained t-shirts, sippy cups that disappear into the void, and toddlers who think “quiet time” is a form of injustice. It’s packing for a five-minute outing like you’re heading on a wilderness expedition, and praying someone remembered the sunscreen (it was you, and you didn’t).

But in the middle of the mess — the meltdowns, the muddy footprints, the endless snack requests — God is gently reminding us: this season is difficult, but filled with purpose.

It’s in the sticky hands reaching for yours. The backyard chaos that sounds suspiciously like joy. The spontaneous water fights, the late-night giggles, and even the I’m-so-tired-I-might-cry bedtime prayers. These long days, full of simple things, are sacred.

So here’s to the moms soaking up summer: half-sunburned, half-grateful, fully leaning on grace. You’re doing kingdom work — even if it’s in flip-flops and a swimsuit cover-up.

QUICK QUESTION!

AROUND THE VALLEY

A low-key Fourth of July event

Your family loves the Fourth of July, but let’s face it: It’s one of the year’s rowdiest holidays.

If you’re looking for something low-key with the perfect amount of patriotic fun, head up the the Icicle Village Resort in Leavenworth. Here are the deets. 

Skip the fireworks and soak up the sunshine at Icicle Village Resort’s 4th of July Plaza-Palooza — a festive block party full of classic summer fun, delicious eats, and all-ages activities in the heart of Leavenworth.

For a small general entry fee, guests can enjoy a relaxed afternoon with lawn games, bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and temporary tattoos in Snow Lakes Plaza. Expect a laid-back atmosphere with Americana pop music playing all day from our event speakers and themed swag to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

Mini golf is available at standard pricing ($15 for the public and $10 for hotel guests). Anyone who plays before 3 PM receives a bonus: a free non-alcoholic beverage and your choice of a hot dog or pretzel from our concessions stand, which is open from 11 AM to 3 PM. Just show your mini golf ticket to redeem your treat!

Hungry? Swing by the concessions stand for à la carte pricing ($5 for a non-alcoholic drink and snack combo), with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. We’re also planning a frozen sweet treat station — maybe even boozy sno-cones or a visit from the Whistlepunk ice cream bike. Keep an eye out for a roaming treat delivery — free Otter Pops, anyone?

From lawn games to BBQ-style concessions and creative, kid-friendly activities, Plaza-Palooza is your go-to destination for a joyful, fireworks-free Fourth. Bring the family, bring your friends, and bring your red, white, and blue!

The fun starts at 11am on Friday!

KIDS’ CORNER

The wading pools are open!

☀️ Hot day activity alert!

The wading pools are open as of June 23rd! Head to Washington, Kiwanis-Methow, and Pennsylvania Parks for some great water play! City employees often lead games, crafts, and activities for kiddos.

ONE LAST THING

Learning from the Founding Fathers

We’re celebrating our country’s birthday soon, and after 250 years, it’s easy to forget how hard-fought our country was. From the ragtag militia men who bravely marched on the front lines, to the Founding Fathers who spoke boldly and codified our freedoms, each dedicated their lives to defeating oppressive tyranny — and by the grace of God, we’ve been allowed to thrive because of it.

Carry this with you as you head into your Fourth of July celebrations, and honor their sacrifice by living a courageous life.

💝 Thanks for reading! Praying you and your family have a wonderful Fourth of July celebration!

🗒️ This just in! Most of our readers’ kids can’t resist a good mud puddle.

👯‍♀️ Keep up with us @valley_moms on IG. Send comments and suggestions to [email protected].