Reflecting on these summer months, there are just some moments that simply stand out. As we work to practice gratitude and mindfulness, it’s the it’s the following feelings, sights, smells, and tastes that are most appreciated.

1. Mornings

In the summer, a run or walk is perfect as the sun comes up. Since I exercise at sunrise, summer mornings are ones to cherish—it’s warm outside, but not too hot (compared to the afternoon).

2. Cold water

Isn’t it amazing to walk in after a hot, sunny afternoon to a refreshing, cold glass of water at the ready. For variety, throw fresh herbs, fruit, and even cucumbers into a pitcher and fill with water. Keeping this in the fridge helps keep a refreshing drink. Another way to remind yourself to drink water is having water cup available at convenient spots.

3. Lawn games

On a shady evening, games like bocce ball, croquet, and horseshoes are a lot of fun to play while you wait for the grill to cook your dinner.

4. Relaxation

In the summer, don’t people seem just a little more relaxed? You see it in the office, in your neighborhood, and even at the grocery store. This relaxed atmosphere makes more room for creativity! Take advantage—enjoy writing, crafting, music making, or enjoying an art project.

5. Getaway Weekends

Summertime long weekends are the best, aren’t they? Depending on your destination, a campground or a place featured on Air BnB can fit most budgets.

6. Warm breezes

When you feel stress rising, let the warm breeze remind you to enjoy a couple of mindful deep breaths. It will give you a a couple of extra seconds to collect your thoughts to move forward.

7. Tomatoes

I love how many tomato varieties are grown in the summer! Enjoy tomatoes raw with fresh herbs in a bruchetta. Or, tomatoes are fantastic slightly sautéed with eggs for breakfast.

8. Bike rides

Living near a bike trail provides an amazing summer opportunity to get outside and feel a warm breeze. Remember to wear a helmet!

9. Sunny days

It doesn’t get any better than a sunny day by the pool, lake, 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.

10. Watermelon

Yum, That’s it. It’s sweet, juicy, and when served cold—it is divine. Watermelon is amazing by itsef, and in gazpacho, agua fresca, or in salsa

11. The grill

Nothing can match that smell of grilled food.. Fish, veggies, poultry, fruit, and lean meat all work well on the grill. My favorite is grilled salmon served with Asian slaw and grilled sweet corn. Yum!

12. Summer evenings

In the summer have that wonderful light that stays with us longer. It lets my spouse and I catch up on a walk after dinner. We enjoy all-fruit popsicles on the way.

What makes you happy in the summer?

© 2017 Caitlin W Howe, LLC
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