A Summer List
It blows my mind that my last post (in this space that I deeply value so much) was back in October (???!!!). Life...man, it's busy and chaotic and, goodness, priorities and obligations...
This season in our lives has felt particularly topsy-turvy despite it being an important and ultimately wonderful one. We have faced multiple challenges of which we have prevailed (for the most part) and while our life, up to this point, has been a story of transition and change (so many, too many changes), our recent "first and forever" home purchase, is already allowing us to feel more grounded. It feels good to start sinking our heels into this place, creating our home.
All of that to say, I have found my way back here and, so, Happy Summer! The boys are kicking off the season with a week in Pensacola spending quality time with all four of their grandparents. I am enjoying the quiet days, uninterrupted time, and the flexibility to run/play squash/go out for meals/make multiple trips to the grocery store, etc.
Summer has arrived at such a necessary time this year. I am looking forward to a break in our school year routine, the fast paced and full afternoons. I feel particularly excited that the slower pace and more open schedule will give us a chance to really get to know our new home in a more intimate way.
In every season, I am always troubled a bit with how to best slow down and savor its magic, while also staying mindful of not letting it pass us by without taking advantage of all the seasonal fun. A list always seems to be helpful, if used as a guide and reminder, rather than a to-do list which can promote stress if all is not "conquered".
Here is my summer list, created with the hope that it will help us to savor the summer moments that lie ahead:
- Attend a concert at Lula Lake Land Trust
- Fly a kite on the hill in Renaissance Park
- Play a lot of squash and tennis
- Long days at home with no plans
- Play board games
- Go on a boat ride in the Tennessee River
- Grill pizza
- Pick berries
- Go fishing
- Help Jack complete his weaving loom project
- Screen a movie outside and watch from the swimming pool
- Play miniature golf
- Master new summer cocktails (a few that I have bookmarked to try are Frozen Rum Mango Lassi, Peach Gin and Soda, and Raspberry Gin Slushies)
- Go to a Lookouts baseball game
- Take the boys to an AMC Summer Movie
- Have friends and family visit
- Swim in our new pool
- Host a party
- Invite friends for dinner and swimming
- Go hiking
- Make fruit crisps and crumbles
- Go fishing
- Go to an outdoor concert series and listen from the lawn
- Rent Stand-Up Paddle Boards
- Make ice cream
- Water ballon fights
- Bake muffins, granola and breakfast burritos to save and store in preparation for the busy fall mornings ahead
Anything else to add?? Happy Summer, friends!