Jackie Hyland: Summer fun vs. summer working for teens

This summer is flying by! It's already mid-July and I am starting to panic!

I love summer. It is, by far, my favorite season. I wait all year long for summer and everything that comes with it! Although I have to admit this summer in North Carolina is a little soggy! As I write this blog, I am sorely missing those Carolina blue skies!

As a working parent, I am well aware of how summer can be a difficult time of year. With no school, kids and teenagers are suddenly home with nothing to do and they can get bored quickly.

Thank goodness for summer camps! My girls have been busy with volleyball camps and beach volleyball. They are lucky!

When I was younger ... in my teenage years ... summertime meant work for me. I had a variety of summer jobs during my tween and teenage years. I did a lot of babysitting, I was a pool lifeguard. I also worked at a grocery store, a jam factory and a suture factory!

By the time I was 17, I had years of experience working!

There were times growing up I wished I could have had the summer off just to go to the pool or the beach, but looking back now I see how important it was for me to have a job.

So, next year, I think it might be time for my older daughter to get a job. She's on board with the idea!

What do you think: Should teenagers work during their summer vacation or should they enjoy those long lazy summers? Because let's face it, once you start working there is no looking back!