NatNews

Next Sunday is Father’s Day, a time to recognize dads and father figures and the impacts they have on their children’s lives. For many individuals, taking on this role and the expectations that come with it is a challenging but highly enjoyable feat.

New fathers often find themselves having to find ways to balance their responsibilities of parenthood with their normal activities and hobbies, such as running. White Rock Running Co-op member Aaron Byrkit, who has two young sons, said that he has had to make some tweaks to his running schedule for the sake of his kids and his wife.

“The biggest adjustments are the times of day I’m able to run and the duration,” he said. “When I go for a long run, the other side of the equation is that my wife has to solo watch our young busy boys by herself.”

One thing that Byrkit learned and advises to other new fathers is to be patient, especially in the beginning stages.

“It’s really tough to do much running in the first 6 weeks of being a parent because of the lack of sleep and the overwhelming challenge of figuring out how to keep a little one alive,” he said. “Also, be flexible. Flexibility is key to finding the time and energy for running as a parent.”

Jerod Honrath, WRRC member and father of one daughter, has also discovered the importance of flexibility in his running schedule and plans. One thing that has helped is choosing to run races with which his entire family can be involved.

“As a family, my wife and 15-month-old daughter have flown to race locations numerous times while I have driven there,” he said. “That way, I can carry most of the baby stuff and facilitate fewer bags and luggage through the airport.”

But he knows that all of the changes and adjustments are worth it for what’s waiting for him at the end of each race.

“Nothing beats seeing [my daughter] and having her at the finish along with my wife,” Honrath said. “My favorite thing, in general, is showing and exposing our daughter to all this amazing world has to offer. Get out there and explore!”

For Byrkit, there is also an excitement about all of the possibilities ahead in life for both of his sons.

“My favorite thing about being a dad,” Byrkit said, “is watching and guiding these two amazing little humans grow and learn to be good humans in our world.”

With heat advisories already underway in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, the infamous summer temperatures of North Texas aren’t waiting until June 21 to make their presence known.

Many local residents, particularly those who participate in outdoor activities on a regular basis, are not only recognizing the need to stay more hydrated than usual but also to find additional ways to battle the blazing sun that turns concrete into flaming walkways ready to scorch any feet daring enough to be without shoes.

One popular activity individuals enjoy is spending time at the pool. It’s a convenient way to catch up on reading or conversations with friends while still getting some Vitamin D outside (and hopefully wearing sunscreen to protect one’s skin from damaging effects of too much sunshine).

Throughout the Dallas area, there are a variety of options for those without their own pools still to be able to lounge, play games, or simply be immersed in the water to stay cool.

Dallas Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) — Located barely a mile from White Rock Lake at 8500 Arturo Dr., this Olympic-sized pool includes a number of entertainment options for individuals of all ages. The FOE features volleyball courts, a kiddie pool, and a bar fully stocked with adult beverages to help you forget about whatever the heat index happens to be that day. ($10 for adults + $5 for children 12 and under + $5 for military and first responders)

JadeWaters Resort Pool at Hilton Anatole — Nestled along I-35, this family-friendly attraction includes a lazy river, two water slides, a swim-up bar, an adults-only leisure cove, a kids’ splash pad, cabana rentals, various games and activities, and the JadeWaters Grill + Bar. (Daily charge of $27.26)

Lee Harvey’s Dive-In — Sitting across the street from the beloved Lee Harvey’s Bar, this social swim club offers a full bar, summer food menu, tunes from an on-site DJ, and free parking. Children are only allowed until 5 p.m. ($15 day passes for adults + $5 day passes for kids; $350 season single membership + $500 season family membership)

Lorenzo Hotel — Located downtown, this resort-style saltwater pool features beautiful scenery, towel service, and iconic palm trees to provide an oasis escape from the bustling city life. Food and drinks are also available from Relativity Bar on weekends. ($30 day passes for adults)

Additionally, just around the corner in July and August, WRRC Run My Hood events will be back, offering opportunities to run in different areas around the metroplex and enjoy one another’s company at post-run potluck pool parties.

“Run My Hood is a nice break from the extreme summer heat,” WRRC admin Julie Lanaux said. “It gives us new scenery with new routes. It often is new runners’ first introduction to the group, and it gives runners who run different paces and distances an opportunity to socialize a bit more than they otherwise might at the post-run events.”

WEEKLY PHOTO OP

The WRRC saved a turtle who decided to hang out in the road along the Saturday route

Thursday, June 16: Dallas Arboretum Cool Summer Concert Series
Friday, June 17: The Ticket Summer Bash 2022
Saturday, June 18: WRRC Saturday run starting at Taco Joint
Saturday, June 18: Dallas MLK Juneteenth 3K Walk & Festival