What does summer mean to you? For me, Memorial Day officially kicks off summer. Last year, I wrote about what makes my summertime happy. This post adds to that list – highlighting my (current) top 10 reasons to love summer.
Summer means fresh flavors
Ah, those wonderful fresh flavors of summer are irresistible. Traditional summer foods are so flavorful, it doesn’t take much to make an enjoyable meal. From fresh herbs to grilled fish, veggies, fruit, and meat – yum!
Summer means extra sunlight
Who doesn’t love to wake up to and end the day with more sunlight? Summertime helps us regulate our sleep cycle naturally – you can wake up more easily if the sunrise wakes you up. And- a bonus- many of you end your work day in the brightness of the afternoon during the summer. Just remember that sleep is so important.
Summer means more camping and hiking
Summertime (for me) means more time to get outside to camp and hike. It is pretty simple to find a campsight at state and national parks. Recently, we enjoyed a number of hikes in Texas Hill Country – like Pedernales Falls State Park.
Summer means time to sharpen the saw
Even if you don’t go on a big vacation, the change of season reminds to slow down and what Steven Covey called sharpen the saw. You can relax by by taking day trips on the weekends or simply by slowing down a bit.
Summer time means good hydration
There’s nothing like a class of cold water in the summer. Try to add fresh flavors like fresh herbs (I love basil and mint), berries, or fresh slices of citrus. As the weather heats up, it’s even more important to stay hydrated.
Summer means outdoor cycling
My spouse and I are lucky to live in a city with cycling and running trails. Even if you don’t have trails nearby, riding around your neighborhood adds fun to the good weather (please be sure to stay safe and wear a helmet!). Or, if you are up for adventure, try cycling at a nearby park. A couple of summers ago, my spouse and I mountain biked in the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon.
Summer means abundant farmer’s markets
As I’ve talked about in the past, sustainable eating is a part of my food philosophy. One way to eat sustainably is to buy foods from your local farmer’s market. The fresh veggies and fruits have amazing flavor. And who knows? Maybe you’ll find a new fruit or veggie to try! It’s important to fill half your plate with fruits and veggies – and this makes it easier.
Summer means gardening
In addition to visiting the farmer’s market, growing your own food is a sustainable and fun way to add more fresh food to your plate. Even if you don’t have a ton of room, even a window with plenty of sunlight can help you grow fresh herbs!
Summer means enjoying the water
With the weather nice and warm, it doesn’t get any better than a sunny day by the pool, like, river, or ocean. Please remember to Slip, Slap, Slop (Seek and Slide). Slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, slop on some sunscreen, seek shade, and slip on sunglasses.
Summer means family celebrations
Whether it is graduation, wedding, or family reunion, celebrations in the summer are fun and full of activity. Some of my favorite school vacation memories are from visiting my grandparents in the summer (and when we can, we still do!).
What does summer mean to you? Let us know in the comments!
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