Hi friends! Friday was my son’s last day of junior high — next year he’ll be in high school. It’s hard to believe how quickly time passes. Even when you try to stay present, moments can slip away. In just a week we’ll reach the first day of summer. I’m excited, though we’re likely moving so there’s a lot to do. Still, I don’t want the season to rush past without a few intentionally lazy, joyful days mixed in with the must-finish projects. Summer shouldn’t be all work. It’s a season for relaxing and appreciating warm afternoons and simple pleasures.
I’ve already been picking strawberries from my yard by the handful. The harvest is small, but the fact that I’m growing my own fruit feels like something to celebrate. I may not be ready to live off the land, but starting somewhere matters. I’m learning to be content with beginning and savoring the process instead of waiting for an “after” to love the present. The journey is where much of life’s joy is found.
To make sure I soak up the season even while tackling projects, I created a summer list — a bucket list of small, meaningful activities. What would you include? I’d love a vacation filled with poolside drinks, but this year I’ll aim for small, memorable summer moments that feel carefree and full of life.
Here are eight things I’m definitely planning for this summer:
Summer puttering.
Puttering is my favorite pastime. When I feel stuck, rearranging shelves, tidying a room or making small updates always recharges me. This summer I’ll be doing lots of puttering: decluttering, organizing and refreshing different spots around the house. I’ll share these projects as they come together.
Traditional treats.
Simple treats like popsicles are a treasured summer memory. Making homemade popsicles with the kids is an easy, sweet way to slow down and savor the season. I hope to mix up a few tasty recipes this year and enjoy those carefree moments together.
Deck maintenance.
Our back deck needs a refresh after Pacific Northwest weather and a few active pets took their toll. A fresh coat of stain and some new plants and furniture will bring it back to life. I’m hoping to tackle that soon and make the space inviting again.
Garden puttering.
Puttering outdoors brings me a special peace. I enjoy pruning flowers, potting plants and just being in the garden. It feels like a quiet retreat. My secret garden and backyard have come a long way and soon they’ll feel more finished — at least for now — after a few final touches. I’ll be sure to share the results of the slowest yard makeover ever.
Family nights.
Evenings by the firepit are the heart of summer — roasting marshmallows, laughing over slightly charred treats and sharing simple moments together. We’ve already made s’mores once this season and plan to make family nights outside a regular habit.
Fresh food.
Fresh, light meals are one of the best parts of summer. When fresh ingredients are ready, a healthy dinner is just minutes away. I want to focus on quick, seasonal recipes that make cooking feel effortless even when life is busy.
Room refresh.
The longer daylight hours make summer the perfect time for simple room updates. Our master bathroom has been on the to-do list and while this refresh won’t be a complete overhaul, I’ll use the extra sunlight to give it a fresh, clean look that’s ready for whatever comes next.
Out to see.
We don’t take long vacations as often as it might appear others do, but we plan to carve out time for day trips and short getaways together. I’ll be traveling for work once or twice, but we’ll also reserve moments for family outings and couple time. I’ll share any fun local discoveries and short adventures along the way.
What will be on your summer list?
On Tuesday I’ll invite everyone to make their own summer list and encourage each other to follow through. It should be motivating and fun. See you soon!
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Want some more summer inspiration?
8 Summer Ideas for Families
6 Ways to Renew and Refresh Your Life This Summer
4 Things To Do This Summer