Six Classic Ways to Make Your Summer FEEL Like Summer

Ever had a summer slip by without stopping to smell the suntan lotion? These few, simple (and mostly free!) things can be enjoyed so that this glorious season isn’t wasted.

1. Stop at every lemonade stand. When you buy that ice cold drink,  you’re also rewarding that entrepreneurial spirit that keeps kids away from the TV.  And always pay double of what their drink costs. To a kid, one buck feels like ten, and their smile will be priceless.
2. Get on the water, in the water and under the water. Even land-locked Minnesota is referred to as “Home of a Thousand Lakes.” Even Death Valley has the Salton Sea. Except don’t get in that one – just admire it from afar.

   

3. No one is too cool for fireworks. No one. Exploding gunpowder in the sky? Come on. Don’t miss the annual display, and that patriotic feeling.
4. Eat what’s in season! Not only will it be tastiest this time of year, but the prices will be at an all-time low. Eat watermelon until the juice rolls down your chin. Come home with a bushel full of lobster. Slather butter over just-picked corn on the cob and pluck tangy tomatoes straight from the vine.
5. My dermatologist would have a litter of puppies over this, but I’m going to say it: Get out in the sun. A huge percentage of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. It will not only boost your mood, but your energy levels. Don’t forget to use sun block, and enjoy that warm, recharged feeling you’ll get afterwards. Not to mention a caramel-colored glow.

   

6. Uniquely summer moments are always presenting themselves to you, and you don’t always notice them. Whether it’s the fireflies that rise up from the ground at dusk, a sunset over the ocean, knockout ribs at a backyard barbecue or a late afternoon thunder shower, slow down for a bit. Stash your phone. Pull up a chair and take it in before it’s gone.