As opened my eyes and realized it was light out, I was sort of bummed that I had slept in.
Even though it’s summer break for the kids, it’s not the case for me because work still has to get done. And even in the summer, I still prefer to wake up before everyone in my house to get in prayer and a workout and set myself up for success for the day.
SWIMSUIT | SUNNIES | TOWEL | CALI’S SWIMSUIT (sold out – similar)
I was sure that it was closer to 8a. It was in fact, 6:30a. Because that’s the beauty of summer – the sun is eager to get out and play.
And for the first time in a long time, I feel that way. I feel like I can get out and play. While travel has happened here and there since the start of pandemic, it’s only been for work. This year is the first year since 2020 that feels “normal” if I’m being honest. It feels like we can all go outside and play.
That’s my goal for June, go outside. (With SPF on, of course.)
Not just outside in the literal sense (but that is important!) but outside in the figurative sense of going places that you’ve been wanting to go – restaurants you & your love have been eager to try, taking the kids on the beach trip you promised them a while ago, visiting local parks to get a change of scenery, discovering attractions in your city or on vacation or wherever your heart desires.
The MAGIC of Outside is that it forces us to be present (yes, put your phone down), try new things and enjoy the wonderfulness that is summer.
There’s more daylight, more opportunities to see family and friends and the privilege of creating memories we’ll relish in years to come.
And while going to new places is cool, don’t underestimate what’s readily available to you. Outside is a thing at your house I imagine.
A front or back patio, a deck, a driveway, a porch or a nearby park can be such a delight during this time of year.
We have a backyard and on one of the first days of summer break I was wracking my brain to come up with something elaborate to do with the kids. But before overwhelm could consume me, gratefulness did. I looked outside, remembered the backyard and how much fun I had playing in it as a kid.
I grabbed the bubble machine and some Italian ice and happily directed the kids to the backyard.
And you know what, they have loved every sunshiny bit of it.
The three of them have pretty much had lunch outside at their little picnic table every day of their summer break so far. And on the hot days, everyone gets their swimsuits on and I let them have at it with the hose.
Enjoying outside doesn’t have to be deep, just deliberate. The simplest of summer days are usually the most memorable. Don’t underestimate them at all.
It’s still important to plan for them, especially when you leave the house and prepare for it, too. Sun protection is a must, staying hydrated is more important then ever and having the items to make the summer enjoyable can be a lifesaver.
This is also the month when wedding season is in full swing. There’s also Father’s Day and thinking of our father figures is important. And let’s not forget about Juneteenth.
For me personally, my sister and mom’s birthdays are this month along with Mom and Dad’s 43rd weeding anniversary. My aunt is getting married, so I have to be prepared to do some gift giving.
As we go through the month, I’ll be sharing what my family and I use, buy + do to make it a memorable and MAGIC summer. Expect everything from family summer must-haves, summer charcuterie board ideas and wedding guest dresses.
So get outside and enjoy the summer, but also: don’t be a stranger.
