YYou know I love making lists of happy, simple things. One of my best blogging friends, Meg, has a family tradition I adore: each year her kids write a summer list. They brainstorm activities—silly or serious—and record them on a big poster board with boxes they can check off as they complete each item. It’s a joyful, low-pressure way to dream and plan the season.
This kind of list is an excellent tool to keep kids from getting bored and to make summer feel memorable and intentional.
You don’t need children to enjoy a summer list. I’m making one for myself this year because life has been so busy I barely have time to breathe, much less play. A simple list gives me permission to prioritize small delights alongside responsibilities.
Highlights from my summer list include playful, everyday pleasures: running through fountains with my son, eating ice cream at the harbor, packing a picnic, and taking the kids to the drive-in. These aren’t extravagant plans, but they’re the kinds of experiences that make warm months feel full and meaningful.
Having a list of small, achievable goals gives me hope that this season won’t be all work and no play.
How about you? What do you want to do this summer?
Summer is the perfect time to build a short list of intentions—big or tiny—that encourage rest, connection, and delight. Maybe you want to wander a local park you’ve never visited, tackle a simple DIY project, host a backyard movie night, or finally read that stack of books beside your bed. A written list makes it more likely these plans will actually happen.
I’m also dreaming of doing a few virtual getaways—vicarious trips that inspire new plans and spark joy. I’ll share a virtual road trip with you soon, highlighting dreamy places and simple ideas to bring that vacation feeling home. Think of it as a relaxed, curated tour: you sit back, I’ll make the plans, and we’ll explore together.
Inspiring finds for summer bliss
When planning a summer of small adventures, a little inspiration goes a long way. Here are some helpful topics and ideas to consider as you build your list:
- Plan a staycation that feels like a real break: set aside days for themed activities, local outings, and relaxed routines to separate “vacation” time from regular life.
- Focus on balance when life gets full: carve out pockets of time for simple pleasures so rest doesn’t get lost in the rush of obligations.
- If reading is your summer bliss, create a short, achievable reading list—mysteries, cozy novels, or light nonfiction—that you can finish between activities.
Collecting ideas from friends and fellow bloggers is a great way to expand your list. Look for practical tips on organizing a staycation, ways to cultivate balance in busy seasons, and fresh book suggestions that will keep you turning pages during slow summer evenings.
Keep a running list of simple, inexpensive activities that are easy to check off: a picnic in a new spot, an evening walk to watch the sunset, a spontaneous ice cream stop, or a night at an outdoor movie. These small rituals are what make long days feel meaningful.
Sharing and connecting
Part of the fun of a summer list is sharing it. Invite family members or friends to add ideas, then post the list somewhere visible so it becomes part of your daily rhythm. If you enjoy writing or blogging, share your favorite finds or projects as part of a “beautiful life” series—highlight the small beauties you discover each week.
If you collect other people’s ideas, keep the focus on real, actionable plans. Brief descriptions, clear steps, and simple materials or locations make it easier to turn inspiration into action. Leave room on your list for spontaneous moments too; some of the best memories come from unplanned detours.
Time to create your summer list
What beauty did you find this week? What small experiences would make your summer feel special? Take a moment to jot down five to ten simple things you want to do over the next couple of months. Think in categories—outdoor fun, food and treats, family time, quiet moments—and mix easy ideas with one or two slightly bigger plans. Then post your list somewhere visible and start checking boxes.
Making a list is an act of permission: permission to slow down, to play, and to savor ordinary days. Whether you share your list with others or keep it private, this small practice helps turn an ordinary summer into a season full of intentional moments and sweet memories.