The BCP Summer of Growth. Week Two: Embrace the Season

Has summer so far been just the same ol’? Even if we don’t change our location, there’s things we can do to feel and appreciate the change of season.

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make us feel a change or that we’ve had a bit of a break. But if we do nothing and just keep running while it seems like everyone else is enjoying–a little bit of resentment can build. Feeling like you had a summer doesn’t have to be so time-consuming or mean a massive change. It can be a little treat daily or a one time excursion that can make a big difference!

The “Embrace the Season” theme is for this week only – but if your new initiative really speaks to you and makes you feel good, go ahead and continue!

You can view week one and more about the Summer of Growth Challenge here.

Eat an ice cream cone, preferably outdoors.

Pack sandwiches and go for a picnic instead of having dinner at home.

Find out if there is a farm or orchard near you and go fruit/vegetable picking.

Spend a day off (or more) at the beach/pool. If you can’t find a friend to go with, go alone…just go (with a book or magazine)! It doesn’t need to be a whole day. If you can’t take off a day, try an evening or carve out an hour or two somehow (how long can we sit for anyway?).

Plan a coffee or lunch (or above pool/beach day) with a friend who isn’t usually in the same town as you during the year.

Enjoy seasonal produce. Plan a meal by stopping first at the produce or farmer’s market and choosing the fruits and vegetables that look fresh and vibrant.

Wind down, get into pjs at 8 p.m., and read a novel.

Stay out until late and look at the stars–if you can’t get to the boardwalk during the day, why not the night (as long as it’s safe and you’re not alone)?

Enjoy your geography–find a beautiful place near you to walk, hike, or bike.

Plan a little trip (even if it’s just overnight) or staycation/day trip. There’s so many more possibilities during the summer season!

Get a cozy chair for your back deck/porch/patio. If you don’t yet have an outdoor spot where you love to spend time in your backyard space, you’ll be surprised at how this can totally change your summer.

Plan a minimal kitchen week. If it’s available, take advantage of pre-chopped produce. Spend that time outdoors instead. Your family won’t mind the simpler food, they’ll be happy to spend time with you instead.

Enjoy a Passionfruit Lemonade over ice. It feels good to hold and enjoy a pretty drink! We’ve also found it’s great with just some fresh lemon and sweetener – no Crystal Light needed. Or, just add fresh lemon slices to regular lemonade as shown here. Find Passionfruit tea bags here.

Protect your personal time. Whatever you do decide to do “feel summer,” block off the time (as if it’s a dentist appointment!). Whether it’s time with your kids or time spent alone, if you prioritize it, it will happen!