Savor the Summer!

As I write this piece, tomorrow is the Fourth of July and in the words of my beloved Italian grandmother, that means that the summer is already over!  When I was a child, her words made no sense to me- what about the rest of July and ALL of August??  But at this point in my life I truly understand – time goes so quickly that July 4th really is a turning point in what is supposed to be the season of fun and relaxation!  With my grandmother’s words echoing in my ears, I turned to thinking about what makes the summer season so special and how we’d better get going if we truly want to enjoy the pleasures of this wonderful time of year!  So here goes – my personal list of summer must-dos!

  • Eat a double-scoop ice cream cone! (no frozen yogurt allowed – drippy cones welcome!)
  • Catch fireflies or encourage your kids to do so! (If you or your kids are too young or too old to chase fireflies, check out this adorable item at artandartifact.com! This catalog offers a glass jar with a silver lid that contains a “string” of faux fireflies that light up and flicker with addition of batteries ($17.95/each, $14.95 for 2 or more)
  • Run your feet through the sand – if you can, head to the beach or lake, but if these choices aren’t available to you, improvise!  Create your own beach compliments of sand box sand in your own backyard!
  • Take in an outdoor concert or play!  Most towns offer these fun events – don’t let them pass you by!
  • Drink your morning coffee on your patio, deck, balcony, or front steps!  Whatever you’ve got, take advantage of it!
  • Admire the unique scent of sunscreen as you apply it to your children and yourself.  This is a smell that belongs to summertime!
  • Drive with your car windows down and the music turned on loud!
  • Float on a raft in the pool or in the ocean. Let the soothing motion take you away from it all!

  • Pack a Picnic!  Whether you eat in a park, on a beach, or in your own back yard, dining al fresco cannot be beat!
  • Polish your toenails with hot pink or bright coral!
  • Let your kids run through the sprinkler!
  • Eat corn on the cob with a LOT of butter and some salt, too! (And if you’re adventurous, try sprinkling some “Old Bay” seasoning onto your ear!)
  • Patronize a local farm stand and cook dinner using only the freshest vegetables!
  • Go berry picking and make strawberry shortcake or fruit cobbler!
  • READ! Grab a great book and allow yourself the luxury of reading for pleasure’s sake!

This list could go on and on, but I hope that you’ve been inspired to embrace the essence of summer!  What is essential to your summer season?  I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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