Tag: summer

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.

Best Lakes to Visit in Michigan

When you think about the “greatest lakes” in America, you probably think of none other than the Great Lakes – of which there are five. The best part about the state of Michigan is that four out of these five lakes (all except for Lake Ontario) touch along the state’s border, so no matter where you are in Michigan, you’re never too far from a gorgeous waterfront view. While the Great Lakes are the go-to choices for the best aquatic places to visit in Michigan, there are also a lot of smaller lakes in the state that are underrated but just as beautiful. Here are some of the best lake spots in Michigan.

Torch Lake

Torch Lake is not only Michigan’s longest lake, but its deepest lake as well, but those are not the only titles this lake holds. National Geographic, also named Torch lake the third-best lake in the country due to its gorgeous blue waters – frequently compared to the Carribean Sea. Torch Lake is known for its incredible parties, particularly on the Fourth of July, where the elite of Michigan gather to relax and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. On your next visit, you may even spot some Michigan celebrities such as Kid Rock and Eminem!

Lake Charlevoix 

Lake Charlevoix is a great destination for those that want to enjoy the splendors of nature alongside a great town filled with delicious food and boutique stores to explore. The downtown Charlevoix area that surrounds the lake has so much to offer. While you may think of taking a lake trip on a warm summer weekend, Charlevoix really shines in Autumn. Visit during the 2nd week of October to experience the infamous Apple Festival for an unforgettable experience.

Elk Lake

How do the lakes of Michigan have such stunningly blue water? The second deepest lake in Michigan, this natural wonder has the same gorgeous coloring as Torch Lake, but with a more relaxing demeanor. If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, away from the excitement and business, Elk Lake is the perfect destination for you.

Lake Michigan

Okay, we implied we weren’t going to name any of the great lakes, but your trip to Michigan wouldn’t be complete without visiting the lake of the same name. It’s probably the best lake in the whole state, perhaps in the whole country. With something to do for everyone, Lake Michigan is the perfect place for your next family trip, girls’ weekend, or romantic getaway. There are many wineries, fishing opportunities, and boating expeditions you can take advantage of here. Even if you’re just taking a long drive along the riverfront, the breathtaking view will be well worth the visit. Many fall in love with Lake Michigan so quickly that they find themselves looking at Grand Rapids real estate after their visit so they can experience this wonder all year ‘round.

Image Credit: Pexels

National Watermelon Day: Picking Out the Best One

Today, August 3, is National Watermelon Day. Eating fresh, ripe watermelon is the best way to celebrate the day. Gather your friends and family together. Host an impromptu BBQ and serve a watermelon as part of the menu. 

Do you see people at the supermarket thumping the side of the watermelon? Do you wonder what they are trying to find? Don’t worry. Picking out a watermelon does not need to be a mystery.

Check List for Finding the Perfect Watermelon 

Most supermarkets display watermelons in large, cardboard bins. As an informed consumer, finding the best watermelon may require searching through the bin.

  • Check for the Right Shape: Look for a watermelon with a uniform shape. Most watermelons are round or oval. Checking the shape for smooth appearance ensures the watermelon grew properly.
  • Check for the Proper Weight:  A ripe watermelon feels heavy. Even a smaller watermelon will feel heavy. When picking out your watermelon, compare the weights. Check watermelons of similar size, pick the heavier one out of the bunch.
  • Check for the Yellow Spot: When a watermelon rests on the ground in the summer sun, a creamy yellow spot will develop. Generally, the larger yellow spot means a riper watermelon.  If the spot looks white, the watermelon was picked too soon.
  • Check for the Right Sound:  Tap the side of the watermelon. The thumping technique should produce a full sound. watermelon is a must.

Picking a ripe watermelon may require lots of practice. But don’t worry; watermelon is always a tasty treat. Checking for the different signs for a ripe watermelon helps in finding the perfect one every time. 

Watermelons go from the field to the shipping bin. before cutting the watermelon,  wash the outside layer. If you slice through the thick outer layer of unwashed watermelon, you risk pushing germs or other pollutants into the interior fruit.

Enjoy your tasty watermelon.

 

Low Cost (or Free) Activities for Family Summer Fun

The school year is finally winding down. Warmer weather is the perfect time to engage in family activities. Do you need ideas for summer family fun for both sunny and rainy days? Check out the following list.

Rainy Day Activity Ideas

Rainy days do not need to be boring. Checking the weather ahead of time will help you plan for your rainy day fun.

  • Family Movie Night: Pick a movie, make pizza, or make popcorn.
  • Board Game Night: Video games are fun. But for a night, unplug from technology and host a board game night. Make snacks, make root beer floats, and enjoy each others’ conversation as you play games.
  • Go to Your Local Library: Check out the latest summer books, movies or other media. Most libraries host summer reading clubs or other events. Participating in a group is the perfect way to meet new friends while learning.
  • Craft Day: Check out Pinterest for summer craft ideas. Many craft supplies may be found at your local dollar store. Picking up a wide variety of craft items is a low-cost alternative for a rainy day.
  • Summer Journal: Summers go by fast. Set aside time to write. Even a local stop can easily turn into a page in your scrapbook. Jot down information about the place. Add pictures, stickers, and other memorabilia to your summer scrapbook. On a rainy day, relax and relieve the memory.
  • Summer Bucket List: Create a summer bucket list. Write down all the activities for you and family to enjoy over the warmer months.

Outdoor Activities 

Unplugging from your electrical devices may be necessary to recharge. Keep in mind; switching your mobile device is advisable. You may never know when an emergency may arise.

  • Nature Walk: Go for a nature walk. Look for summer birds, flowers blooming, and other wildlife. Take pictures. Just simply enjoy the sights and sounds of being outdoors.
  • Go Hiking: State and national parks have hiking trails available for the beginner to the expert hiker. Many trails are pet-friendly. Your dog will enjoy the change of scenery.
  • Go Geocaching: Geocaching is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Host a BBQ: Invite friends or extended family members to a BBQ.
  • Bonfire Night: Sitting around a bonfire is a great way to spend a summer evening. Make s’mores. Look at the stars. Chase fireflies.
  • Go Dog Walking: Walking your dog is a perfect exercise for both of you. If you do not have a dog of your own, many local dog rescues or shelters need volunteers to walk adoptable dogs. Who knows maybe you will find your new best friend.
  • Local Tourist: Be a hometown tourist for a day. When was the last time, you visited your local museum, art gallery, or other tourist sites?
  • Go to the Splash Park:  Splash parks or splash pads are a great activity to beat the summer heat. Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon outdoors.
  • Attend a Free Outdoor Concert/Movie Night: Many communities host numerous community events in the summer. Make an outdoor concert or a movie in the park part of your weekend fun.

Summertime activities can easily turn into long-lasting memories for your family or friends. Enjoy your time together.

 

90 Summer Bucket List Ideas

When most people think about a bucket list, images of faraway places generally come to mind. A summer bucket list is simply a way to enjoy each day to the fullest. Creating a list with your family or friends is a wonderful way to inspire a fun-filled summer.

90 Bucket List Ideas for Summer

  1. Plant flowers
  2. Keep a summer journal or scrapbook
  3. Attend summer activities including VBS, Science Camp, Library Events, or Art Classes
  4. Learn tennis or other summer outdoor sporting activities
  5. Play in the rain
  6. Visit a state or national park
  7. Go berry picking
  8. Make tye-dyed shirts
  9. Listen to a free, outdoor community concert
  10. Play a game of catch or Frisbee
  11. Take silly selfies with your family or friends
  12. Go to the library
  13. Ride a Ferris wheel
  14. Watch fireflies
  15. Read a book under a tree or on the beach
  16. Try kayaking or paddle boarding
  17. Go camping
  18. Roast marshmallows or make S’mores
  19. Attend a festival or fair
  20. Go to an amusement park for the day
  21. Go on a canoe or boat ride
  22. Play hide-n-seek
  23. Walk your dog or volunteer to walk dogs at the local shelter/rescue
  24. Try rollerblading or skateboarding
  25. Nap in a hammock or lawn chair
  26. Visit a waterfall
  27. Throw pennies into a wish fountain
  28. Create a summer playlist of your favorite songs
  29. Take a tour
  30. Go to the park for the day
  31. Watch a parade
  32. Visit a splash park or splash pad
  33. Try a Pinterest craft
  34. Go to the zoo
  35. Volunteer
  36. Make Root beer floats
  37. Go to the lake
  38. Go for a bike ride
  39. Have a water balloon fight
  40. Visit an aquarium
  41. host a scavenger hunt
  42. Go swimming
  43. Make sandcastles
  44. paint rocks
  45. Host a movie night
  46. Make homemade popsicles
  47. Go on a day trip
  48. Make homemade lemonade
  49. Host a photo shoot in your backyard
  50. Go Geocaching
  51. Do sidewalk chalk art
  52. Eat banana splits
  53. Watch a sunrise
  54. Make homemade playdough or salt dough
  55. Watch fireworks
  56. Use sparklers
  57. Visit a historical site
  58. Go to a drive-in or outdoor movie night
  59. Eat watermelon
  60. Go to a farmer’s market
  61. Avoid social media for a day or week
  62. Play in the sprinklers or on a slip-n-slide
  63. Go bowling
  64. Make homemade ice cream
  65. Play laser tag
  66. Fly a kite
  67. Host a BBQ
  68. Host a rainy day craft day
  69. Go on a picnic
  70. Watch a sunset
  71. Go horseback riding
  72. Go miniature golfing
  73. Go tubing, float down a river
  74. Lay out a blanket and star gaze
  75. Go on a nature walk
  76. Make a YouTube video
  77. Host a family board game night
  78. Join a summer reading group
  79. Paint picture of something in nature
  80. Make and host a paper airplane flying contest
  81. Make sun catchers out of Pony beads
  82. Go hiking
  83. Go to your local botanical garden
  84. Try a snow cone
  85. Eat a funnel cake or elephant ear
  86. Collect and send postcards
  87. Blow bubbles
  88. Go on a train ride
  89. Spend an afternoon visiting family members
  90. Sit outdoors and just listen to the sounds of summer

 

School’s out. The weather is warmer. Have fun and enjoy the upcoming summer days.

 

30 Picture Ideas for June

Long summer days are great for being outdoors. Enjoy the warmer weather by taking photos of your surroundings.

30 Photo Prompts for June

  1. Selfie
  2. Pet
  3. Landscape/Waterscape
  4. nature
  5. Current View
  6. Something Yellow
  7. Signs
  8. Best Friends
  9. Seashells or Beach Sites
  10. Iced Tea or Other Refreshing Beverage
  11. Down Low
  12. Up High
  13. Favorite Snack
  14. Flag (Flag Day in the U.S. is today)
  15. Clouds
  16. Father’s Day Inspiration
  17. Something Green
  18. Memory
  19. Oreos
  20. Ice Cream or Other Frozen Treat
  21. Summer
  22. Strawberries or Other Fruit
  23. Flowers
  24. Garden
  25. Water
  26. Sunglasses
  27. Weather
  28. Something Blue
  29. Street View
  30. Skyline

June is a wonderful start of the summer months. Take pictures, print them, share online, or make a scrapbook.

National Iced Tea Day

Today, June 10th is National Iced Tea Day. Enjoying a tall glass of iced tea on a summer day is a great way to quench your thirst. Cold, plain tea by itself is a perfectly fine beverage. But if you want to try something new, adding different flavors may be a surprising twist to an old classic.

Ways to Enhance Your Iced Tea

Experimenting with diverse flavoring is the best way to find a perfect match for you. Do not be afraid to try something new. Who knows, you may find the best combination to serve at your next family gathering.

Mint

Adding fresh mint from your garden provides a refreshing taste to your iced tea. Simply wash, chop leaves to the desired size, and add to your tea. Or chop mint leaves into smaller pieces and freeze in your ice cubes. Later add the frozen cubes to your tea.

Berries

Experiment by adding different fruits to your iced tea. Raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and other types of berries are a wonderful addition to your beverage. By experimenting you are able to find the perfect one to quench your taste buds.

Citrus

Along with berries, lemons, oranges, and grapefruit are another perfect addition to your iced tea. Simple wash and cut the citrus into slices to add to your tea.

Sweet

Of course, along with the healthier alternatives to add to your iced tea, you may add a sweetener. Many individuals prefer a sweet tea as an extra pick me up on a warm summer day.

So are you ready to add something new to your iced tea? Or are you happy drinking the tea without any new additions? Honestly, the choice is completely up to you. Just take the time to relax and enjoy an ice cold glass of tea on hot summer’s day.

 

 

 

Your Dog’s Summer Bucket List

Bucket lists do not need to be grand scale adventures or limited to family activities. Bucket lists are all about trying something new. For most individuals, pets are a valuable family member. Including your furry companion in activities is a great way to spend the summer. Create a bucket list for you and your dog.

Bucket List Ideas for You and Your Dog

Prior to heading out to any destination, ensure the place is pet-friendly. Simply call or research the rules and guidelines for bringing along your faithful companion. Many travel areas strive to include family pets. Others may have specific restrictions in place. By knowing the rules ahead of time, you will not disappoint your fur baby.

Go Hiking

After a long work week or hectic schedule, both you and your pet will need some outdoor time. Hit the trails. Pack the essentials for you and dog, and spend a day exploring the natural world.

Go Camping

Many campgrounds cater to pets by adding dog runs and other play areas. Finding the best campground for you and your dog may take some research. Being outdoors for a weekend is a great way for you to unplug. Not to mention, time for you and your dog explore.

Visit a Dog Park

Dog parks are an excellent way for socialization and play. Try to visit the dog park regularly. Consider going to a variety of dog parks in your city. Different play areas provide new adventures for your dog.

Go to a Pet-Friendly Hotel

Need a relaxing getaway. Consider going to a pet-friendly hotel. Many hotels strive to include pets in their accommodations. Order room service. Enjoy a night of relaxation with your fur baby.

BBQ a Special Meal

Cook a steak on the BBQ for you and your pet to enjoy. Or host a party for friends and their pets.

Go to the Lake

If your dog loves to swim, head to the lake. Pack a picnic. Enjoy your day.

Create a Pet-Friendly Backyard

Redesign your backyard space with your dog in mind.

  • Dog activity area with ramps for running
  • Swimming spot (child’s wading pool works well)
  • Watering station
  • Shade area
  • Relaxation area
  • Dog run

Get a Professional Photo

As a pet owner, you probably have hundreds (or thousands) of photos or selfies with your pet. Perhaps the time has come for a professional portrait of you and your fur baby.

A Night In

Perhaps, the best activity is a night at home. Watching videos, sitting on your couch, and cuddling with your pet may be the perfect way to spend an evening.

Regardless of the activity, your dog will love the extra attention.Yo

Boredom Busters: Creating a Summer Bucket List

School’s out! Now, what is the first thing you hear –“I’m bored.” Consider creating a summer bucket list with your children to help chase away the boredom. Keep in mind, the list should be ideas you are willing or able to do.

Creating the Bucket List

Make the summer bucket list a family project. Use a notebook or purchase a poster board to write out your ideas. Consider using a different colored marker for each child. Allow each family member to come up with different activities. Of course, younger children may need help with the writing part of the project.

Summer Bucket List Ideas

Summer bucket lists can be simple everyday items to planned vacation adventures. The choice is up to you.

  • Have a bonfire
  • Make S’mores
  • Have a water balloon fight
  • Go to the zoo
  • Ride in a canoe
  • Have a slumber party
  • Get an ice cream cone
  • Go hiking
  • Have a pool party
  • Sleep in a tent
  • Listen to music in the park
  • Go to an amusement park
  • Go to the library
  • Volunteer
  • Ride a roller coaster
  • Go for a bike ride
  • Go skateboarding
  • Make root beer floats
  • Bake cookies
  • Paint rocks
  • Have an arts and crafts day
  • Have a Harry Potter movie marathon
  • Pick strawberries
  • Go to a lake
  • Go for a walk
  • Make art with sidewalk chalk
  • Go swimming
  • Visit grandma and grandpa
  • Day road trips
  • Visit an art gallery
  • Go to a museum
  • Go to a sporting event
  • Go to a splash park
  • Go to a fair or festival
  • Make homemade popsicles
  • Make a fort
  • Go fishing
  • Go to petting zoo or local farm
  • Have a family game night
  • Cook a meal together
  • Take swimming lessons

If you are uncertain on the type of activities, become a tourist in your town or surrounding towns. Use an Internet search. Local activities often get overlooked. Providing you a chance to join in on the fun on a weekly basis, community activities are free or minimal costs to participate.

Celebrating Harry Potter’s Birthday

I am a full believer in celebrating life. Small celebrations bring lasting memories. Every day our daily schedules and commitments keep us busy. Enjoying little moments is a necessity. For fans of the Harry Potter series, myself included, today, July 31st represents the fictional character, Harry Potter’s birthday. Along with Harry, J.K. Rowling celebrates her birthday today too.

In the book, Rubeus Hagrid provides Harry with a birthday cake on his 11th birthday. The simple scene from the Keeper of the Keys immediately ushers us into the magical world of Harry Potter. Why not incorporate his birthday into a family fun night? Or invite your friends for some magical fun.

  • Consider making a quick birthday cake as a special dessert treat.
  • Gather the family or friends around to watch the first movie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
  • Make wands.
  • Eat chocolate frogs.
  • Create your own owl, cat, or toad.
  • Have special snacks or cook an entire meal based on the Wizarding World’s cuisine.
  • Make magical themed crafts.

    Melt pony beads on old pizza pans to create large Harry Potter inspired sun catchers.
  • Need a quieter activity, reread the Harry Potter series or listen to the audio versions.

In a couple weeks, school, homework, sports and enforced bedtime routines will be part of your already full schedule. Take a moment to enjoy the little things and celebrate “The Boy Who Lived”.

Reference:

Rowling, J. K., Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. London: Bloomsbury Children’s, 1997.