Category: Seasons

30 Self-Care Ideas for September

September brings the start of Autumn, cooler weather, and multiple chances to engage in self-care. Check out the following ideas for self-care in September.

30 Days of Self-Care for September

  1. Commit to Healthier Choices
  2. Go to the Farmer’s Market for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
  3. Get Your Annual Physical
  4. Keep a Daily Mood Tracker
  5. Write a Gratitude List
  6. Hike a New Trail
  7. Join a Support Group
  8. Spend Time in Prayer or Meditation
  9. Keep a Journal
  10. Go for a Nature Walk
  11. Spend a Day Doing Nothing
  12. Go to Church
  13. Stay Hydrated (Commit to 8-10 Glasses of Water a Day)
  14. Create a Weekly Fitness Routine
  15. Create a Playlist
  16. Make a Meatless Dinner
  17. Go on a Social Media Detox
  18. Make a Healthy Smoothie
  19. Take a Long Nap
  20. Grab Your Favorite Book, Wrap Up in a Fuzzy Blanket, and Spend an Afternoon Reading
  21. Go to a Fall Community Event
  22. First Official Day of Fall! Get Outdoors!
  23. Try Yoga or Other Stretching Exercises
  24. Order Take Out
  25. Bake Cookies and Share
  26. Create a Vision Board
  27. Volunteer
  28. Get Organized
  29. Create
  30. Figure Out What Brings You Peace and Do More of That Activity

Remember be kind to yourself.

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July Photo Prompts

Summer is in full swing. Restrictions from the pandemic are beginning to lift. The time is right to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather. Grab your camera and start snapping pictures before summer is over. Do you need some photo inspiration for July? Check out the following list of ideas.

  1. Take an outdoor selfie.
  2. Reflection
  3. Shadow
  4. Happy 4th of July! Celebrations & Fireworks.
  5. Summertime Vibes
  6. Natural Light
  7. Beverage
  8. 3 p.m.
  9. Food
  10. Trees
  11. Sunset or Sunrise (or both)
  12. Street
  13. Friends
  14. Clouds/Sky
  15. Sign
  16. Flowers
  17. Still
  18. Texture or Patterns
  19. Low Light
  20. Water
  21. Insects
  22. Close-Up
  23. Black and White
  24. Distance
  25. Up-Side Down
  26. Nature
  27. Love
  28. Animal
  29. Motion
  30. Backward
  31. Photographer’s Choice

Self-Care Ideas for July

The summer months are a great time to focus on self-care. Whether you are just starting or continuing a self-care routine, the benefits promote an overall well-being to your mind, body, and soul. Set aside a time just for you. Do you need some ideas for your July self-care routine? Look at the following list for inspiration.

  1. Schedule your annual wellness check with your primary care provider.
  2. Stay hydrated! Drink lots of fluids in the warm weather.
  3. Get creative.
  4. Celebrate the 4th! Play with sparklers or go watch the fireworks.
  5. Sleep! Take naps or sleep an extra hour.
  6. Meditate or pray.
  7. Listen to relaxing music.
  8. Go to the library or local bookstore to find your summer reading material.
  9. Binge-watch movies or series on a rainy day.
  10. Try a new fitness routine.
  11. Go for a hike or nature walk.
  12. Go for a swim.
  13. Ride a bike.
  14. Keep a gratitude journal.
  15. Call an old friend.
  16. Go out to lunch.
  17. Try a new recipe.
  18. Volunteer
  19. Clean your living space.
  20. Spend a day at the beach.
  21. Unplug from your devices.
  22. Be a local tourist.
  23. Stargaze.
  24. Watch the sunrise or sunset.
  25. Buy a new outfit.
  26. Do an in-home spa treatment.
  27. Get a haircut.
  28. Find a new place to worship.
  29. Order take-out from your favorite restaurant or try somewhere new.
  30. Take a long hot bubble bath with lavender or rose hips oil.
  31. Learn a new skill.

Summer Bucket List: 100 Activities

Many people view Memorial Day as the unofficial kick off to summer. Are you ready to get outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather? Time to make a summertime bucket list! Whether you are looking for activities for yourself, your family, or friends, a bucket list is a great way to begin your planning process.

If you are looking for inspiration, check out the following 100 ideas for a summer to remember.

  1. Swim in a lake.
  2. Go on a picnic.
  3. Commit to a 1000 Hours Outside
  4. Build sandcastles.
  5. Visit a local, state, or national park.
  6. Go hiking.
  7. Fly a kite.
  8. Watch the sunrise.
  9. Go kayaking.
  10. Go horseback riding.
  11. Eat a banana split.
  12. Sleep under the stars.
  13. Make homemade ice cream.
  14. Tie-dye tee shirts.
  15. Play in the sprinklers.
  16. Have a bonfire.
  17. Eat S’Mores.
  18. Watch fireworks.
  19. When the moon is full, go for a walk.
  20. Host a BBQ.
  21. Go bike riding.
  22. Go on a nature walk.
  23. Plant a flower or vegetable garden.
  24. Go on day trips around your state.
  25. Do weekly summer selfies or host a summer-themed photo shoot.
  26. Make a summer scrapbook of your adventures.
  27. Create a time capsule.
  28. Create a summer playlist.
  29. Have a water balloon fight.
  30. Dance outside on a warm summer night.
  31. Buy take-out and go eat in the park.
  32. Volunteer.
  33. Host an outdoor game night.
  34. Go ziplining.
  35. Go to a drive-in.
  36. Create outdoor chalk murals.
  37. Go on a boat ride.
  38. Dance in the warm rain.
  39. Go Geocaching.
  40. Go camping.
  41. Go tubing down a river.
  42. Go for a long car ride.
  43. Blow bubbles.
  44. Go canoeing.
  45. Be a hometown tourist.
  46. Build an outdoor fort.
  47. Keep a summer journal.
  48. Go to a water park.
  49. Relax in a hammock.
  50. Go to an amusement park.
  51. Visit a farmer’s market.
  52. Go to an outdoor concert.
  53. Spend an afternoon, reading a book while sitting under a tree.
  54. Play mini-golf.
  55. Go to a baseball game.
  56. Visit an aquarium.
  57. Play beach volleyball.
  58. Make root beer floats.
  59. Relax on a pool floaty.
  60. Make homemade popsicles.
  61. Slip-n-slide.
  62. Go midnight bowling.
  63. Try something new from a food truck.
  64. Photograph a waterfall.
  65. Host yard Olympics.
  66. Go out of state.
  67. Go on a late-night swim (safely).
  68. Go water skiing.
  69. Binge-watch Harry Potter movies on a rainy day.
  70. Host a sleepover.
  71. Play tennis.
  72. Attend or volunteer at a Vacation Bible School.
  73. Join a youth group, Bible study, or simply do morning devotions.
  74. Try a new workout routine.
  75. Eat Cotton Candy.
  76. Go rollerblading.
  77. Ride a skateboard.
  78. Visit a botanical garden.
  79. Rent a paddleboat.
  80. Go fishing.
  81. Go to a zoo or wildlife preserve.
  82. Ride a roller coaster.
  83. Go on a train ride.
  84. Paintball.
  85. Try playing Paint Twister.
  86. Play laser tag or flashlight tag.
  87. Do Yoga outdoors.
  88. Feed frozen peas to the wild ducks.
  89. Go to a new restaurant and order the special of the day.
  90. Pick berries.
  91. Play cornhole or Bocce Ball.
  92. Visit a splash pad.
  93. Host a Christmas in July party.
  94. Go on a nature scavenger hunt. Use your camera to document your finds.
  95. Unplug from social media for a day or entire weekend.
  96. Go rock hunting or search for sea glass.
  97. Do random acts of kindness.
  98. Attend a summer library program.
  99. Pick wildflowers (where permitted) and make bouquets to give away.
  100. Host an end-of-the-summer party.

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Self-Care Ideas for January

Self-care is essential for your physical and mental health. The winter months, social distancing, and other stressors make self-care a priority. Check out the following list of self-care ideas for January.

  1. New Year’s Day! Time to relax and count your blessings.
  2. Take a long nap or sleep in.
  3. Stay hydrated. Winter months are a perfect time to try herbal teas or other hot beverages.
  4. Indulge with a long hot shower or a bubble bath.
  5. Go on a nature walk.
  6. Write in a journal.
  7. Call a friend or your grandma.
  8. Write letters or thank you notes for holiday gifts.
  9. Go for a drive.
  10. Listen to loud music.
  11. Start or return to your exercise routine.
  12. Organize a portion of your living space.
  13. Meditate or pray.
  14. Get crafty.
  15. Spend an afternoon with a good book.
  16. Bring out your inner child and color in coloring books. Some of the adult versions are very interesting.
  17. Build a snowman.
  18. Go outdoors and take photos.
  19. Splurge and order pizza to go.
  20. Unplug from your electronic devices for an hour, an afternoon, or the entire day.
  21. Do a random act of kindness.
  22. Try a new recipe.
  23. Eat your favorite food.
  24. Buy yourself something. Warm, fuzzy socks are perfect for cold winter days.
  25. Make a playlist for quiet moments or bedtime listening.
  26. Binge-watch your favorite series.
  27. Drink hot cocoa with lots of marshmallows or whipped cream.
  28. Pamper yourself with an in-home spa day.
  29. Make a fruit smoothie.
  30. Create a vision board.
  31. Watch the sunrise or sunset.

20 Fun Frugal Fall Activities

The official start of autumn is still days away. Cooler nights, harvest time, and the subtle changes to the landscape are signs of the fall season. Due to the pandemic, fall is different this year. Numerous community events are canceled. Social distancing and other guidelines are still in place. But even on a budget, you and your family can enjoy the changing season.

Family Fall Activities

  1. Play a game of toss football.
  2. Go apple picking
  3. Try an apple cider slushy
  4. Eat a Carmel apple
  5. Go for a hike (Your dog can go too.)
  6. Go for a nature walk (Don’t forget your camera)
  7. Go on a Sunday drive just to look at the changing leaves.
  8. Collect brightly colored leaves
  9. Rake leaves into a pile and simply jump in. (Great fun at any age)
  10. Bake an apple pie. Or bake two, one to keep and one to give away.
  11. Decorate your home with a fall theme.
  12. Wax leaves
  13. Make your favorite homemade soup or try a new recipe.
  14. Collect pine cones for crafts
  15. Go stargazing
  16. Have a fall picnic.
  17. Have a bonfire on a chilly night.
  18. East S’mores
  19. Have a fall-themed craft day.
  20. Go to the farmer’s market.

Despite canceled events, fall is still a fun season. Spend time with your family. Or grab your bestie and head out for the day.

Photo Prompts for September

September brings cooler temperatures to the Northern Hemisphere. As summer fades into autumn, you have the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and take photos. Do you need some inspiration? Check out the following photo prompts for September.

September’s Photo Prompts

  1. Selfie (yes, start each month with a selfie)
  2. Water
  3. Current View
  4. Relaxation
  5. Low Light
  6. Bright
  7. Memories
  8. Colors
  9. Distance
  10. Food
  11. Time
  12. Sunrise or Sunset
  13. Nature
  14. Comfy
  15. Smile
  16. Love
  17. Noon
  18. Pet
  19. A Look-Back
  20. Close Proximity
  21. Harvest
  22. First Day of Autumn
  23. Leaves
  24. Roads
  25. Something to Your Right
  26. Home
  27. Lines
  28. Shapes
  29. Portrait
  30. Beauty

Have a great September! And take lots of pictures.

End of Summer Activities

Summer is quickly coming to an end. Soon, either virtually or in-person, school will back in session. Homework and work commitments will rapidly fill your schedule. Practicing social distancing and other guidelines in your area, you and your family can enjoy numerous fun-filled activities.

Do you need some inspiration? Check out the following list.

20 End of Summer Activities for the Entire Family

  1. Go on a hike
  2. Go on a nature walk
  3. Go camping (yes, the backyard counts)
  4. Make a fort in the backyard
  5. Blow bubbles
  6. Water balloon fight
  7. Play in the sprinkler
  8. Go for a bike ride
  9. Host a treasure hunt or scavenger hunt
  10. Go on a picnic
  11. Go on a walking tour of local sites
  12. Gather rocks to paint
  13. Go swimming
  14. Go out for ice cream
  15. Go on a scenic drive
  16. Have a craft day
  17. Host a game night
  18. Go stargazing
  19. BBQ
  20. Have a bonfire

The recent health crisis is a cause for concern. Staying safe and healthy is always a priority. But you can still enjoy the outdoors.  Get outside with your family, including the dog. Enjoy the remaining days of summer. A simple nature walk or hike can transform into long-lasting memories for your family. Grab your camera and go.

31 Days of Journal Writing Prompts for July

Are you looking to start journal writing? Or perhaps you are just looking for some inspiration to continue your daily writing? Keeping a journal is a beautiful way to get your thoughts and memories down on paper. Check out the following list of prompts for July.

  1. How did June go for you? What was your best moment? Add lots of details.
  2. What do you hope to accomplish for the second half of 2020? Be specific on your goals.
  3. How did you and your family celebrate the 4th of July? What is your best memory of the holiday from your childhood?
  4. Happy Independence Day, USA! Did you celebrate today? What did you do?
  5. What does freedom mean to you?
  6. What are your biggest fears with the coronavirus? Are you still social distancing? Are you wearing a mask in public places?
  7. What has the coronavirus taught you?
  8. Make a current gratitude list of at least 10 things that make you feel grateful.
  9. Mid-Week Smiles! What made you happy today? What made you smile?
  10. At this particular time in your life, what do you feel are your best traits? Why?
  11. Take a moment to think about a time in your life that was a significant transition. What was it? How did you handle the situation? What did you learn from the experience?
  12. In your opinion, what is the best or favorite part of summer? Go into details.
  13. Free write for 15 minutes.
  14. Is there a hobby or other activity from your childhood that you would like to try again? What is stopping you? Why was this activity important to you?
  15. Who is your inspiration? Why does this one person mean so much to you? Has your role model changed over the years?
  16. Name a person who you trust above anyone else in your life? Why do you trust this person?
  17. If you change your community, state, region, or even the world, what would you do? Now, write one thing that you can do to help promote this goal.
  18. Write about a summer job from your teen or young adulthood. What did you learn from the experience? What did you like and dislike about the job?
  19. What would you do if you won the lotto jackpot?
  20. Describe your entire day in great detail.
  21. What makes you feel stressed or overwhelmed?
  22. If you could walk out your door into a fictional world or a different timeline, where would you go? Why?
  23. Did you have a favorite book, comic book, television series, or movie as a child? Why was this particular media so important to you?
  24. Is there someone from your past that you need to forgive? Write that particular person a letter. No, you do not have to send it. Getting your feelings out on paper is a great letting go experience.
  25. Where would you like to be in five years in terms of finances, housing, family, or any other large scale changes? How do you plan to accomplish your goals?
  26. What was the scariest or dangerous moment in your life so far? What was the situation? Describe your experience.
  27. Is summer your favorite season? Why? If not, what is your favorite season?
  28. Write about your favorite summer vacation as a child? What was the best part?
  29. Describe your perfect summer day.
  30. Where is one place you want (or already went) to this summer? Why was this place a “must-see” for this summer?
  31. What are you or your family looking forward to in August?
  • Bonus: What is your favorite summer outdoor activity? Why?

Celebrating the Summer Solstice

Most people associate the first day of summer with the 3-day Memorial weekend. But technically this year, on June 20, 2020, the northern hemisphere will officially begin the first day of summer. Staying light longer, the sun will finally reach the furthest northern point in the sky. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year. After the summer solstice, the days will begin to lose light.

Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

Different cultures have a wide range of traditions to welcome the summer. Unfortunately, due to recent health mandates, social distancing, and stay at home guidelines, many festivals and celebrations are canceled this year. But do not let all the restrictions keep you from celebrating the summer solstice.

  • Go Hiking: Numerous parks are open to the public. Yes, social distancing still applies to the trails, but you still can enjoy the great outdoors. Hike a new trail. Spend an extra hour outdoors. Hiking is good for the entire family. Even young children can enjoy easy trails. Of course, don’t forget your dog.
  • Go for a Walk: A simple walk around the block can be refreshing. Walk to your local park. The playground equipment may still be inaccessible. But enjoy the different paths throughout the park. If you are working, go for a short walk on your lunch break.
  • Enjoy Nature: Take a leisurely stroll in your local park to enjoy nature. Take along binoculars and a camera to capture your view. If you are allowed, pick wildflowers, collect rocks, and other nature items to use for craft projects later.
  • Meditate or Pray: Sitting outside in nature is the perfect time to reflect. Give yourself time to meditate or pray.
  • Watch the Sunrise or Sunset: Taking a moment out of your day to simply watch the sunrise or set, gives you a chance to relax and destress.
  • Cook a Feast: Okay, a simple BBQ or a picnic will do the trick. But cooking a meal and enjoying the celebration as a family is a great way to honor the changing season.
  • Host a Bonfire: If you haven’t used your fire pit this year yet, the summer solstice is the perfect day to start. Build a small fire, watch the sunset, and marvel at the stars. Oh, and don’t forget the chocolatey, marshmallow goodness of S’mores.
  • Celebrate Virtual: Due to restrictions, many popular sites, including Stonehenge, are celebrating the summer solstice online. Watch the sunrise or set, listen to music, or watch an event.

Regardless of the way you celebrate the solstice, enjoy the summer day. Summer goes by quickly. Soon, the cold weather will return.