End of Summer Picnic Experience

End of Summer Picnic Experience

Don’t Let Summer Pass You By

• Farmer’s markets
• Frozen yogurt
• The buzz of cicadas
• Road trips
• Iced tea in mason jars
• Flip flops and sand between your toes
• Back yard BBQ in the air
• Iced lattes
• Puppy heads hanging out car windows
• Outdoor movies
• Porch swings and lemonade
• Lazy afternoons with a good novel

Our Spirits are Lifted With the Sunshine and Fresh Air

Five days a week we lock ourselves inside four walls and wonder why we feel depressed at the notion of “another day, another dollar.” We need to break free every once in a while from the confines of the “cubicles” we live in. There is something that lifts our spirits as we feel the heat of the sun on our face and breathe in the clean, outside air.

Childhood and Summers

There is a buried sentiment inside me from my childhood about summer. Sleepin’ in with no real responsibilities, hangin’ out with friends, and enjoying fun in the sun: that was the life. But somewhere along the way, those notions got lost and being a  grown up took over. Summer, now, is about working through those summer breaks and trying hard to get ahead. But, those quiet, childhood reminders surface in me occasionally and stir a desire to return to simpler times.

Take Time to “Smell the Roses”

The old proverbial saying, “Stop and smell the roses,” nudges us toward what is truly important. “Stop and smell” are intentional actions amidst the blur of life. But who has time to stop? Life rushes ahead at crazy speeds, and if we don’t keep on top of it, we desperately fall behind. We can easily lose control of this “machine” that must run efficiently and precisely. But we are not a machine and life should not feel robotic. Ebbs and flows are what give this life beauty and movement.

The Perfect Remedy – End of Summer Picnic Experience

I have a perfect remedy for this “grown-up” dilemma. Let’s pack a picnic, find a spot under a big oak tree, and let every care dissipate for the afternoon. Re-discover what it feels like to have the shackles of responsibility removed for a few hours. Take hold of the opportunity before Summer is behind us and Fall is in full force.

A Romantic Picnic

This is where just you and the love of your life take the time to rekindle your relationship. Great relationships are cultivated because of intention and effort. What a perfect time to unplug from all the distractions and give your undivided attention to each other. Take a stroll off the beaten path and find a grassy area to spread a blanket and throw down some pillows. Relax, sip on some wine and watch the sunset together.

 A Lazy Afternoon Picnic with a Good Book

Work weeks can be non-stop with its constant demands. This afternoon picnic is one of the best ways to decompress. Grab a good book, turn your phone off and get lost in a far-away story. Close your eyes and take a nap if you want. Give yourself permission to be lazy for the next three or four hours.

A Fun Picnic with Your Children

The two previous picnics speak to the need of restful times to replenish. This picnic is about the rowdy play of children. Find a park that has a picnic area next to a playground.

Some of my favorite memories with my kids are countless hours spent on picnics at the park. We would gather cousins and friends and head to “Dreamland Park” for a day of playing tag, climbing on the monkey bars, and swinging for hours. These times can take you back to your childhood, where life was uncluttered, and laughter was infectious.

A Last Minute Picnic

This is when you find yourself bored and a spontaneous notion comes over you. You head to the deli and grab some crusty bread, sausage, and cheese. Add some fresh fruit and a bottle of wine. Spontaneity sometimes creates the best outcome. There are no preconceived expectations. You throw together a couple of things and text a few invites to friends. It is the making of a casual get-together where you throw a frisbee, catch a few of rays and enjoy simple food and drinks with friends.

A Rainy Day Picnic

When you wake up to the pitter patter of rain on your rooftop, it is an opportunity to create an indoor picnic adventure with your kids. Throw a checkered tablecloth down on the living room floor and bring out the picnic basket with all the goodies. Pull together some board games and make the day an experience not soon be forgotten.

A Picnic Under the Stars

This is probably one of my favorite. Find an area away from the city where lights and noise will not distract. Lay out under the stars, find the milky way and the big dipper. Take the time to contemplate days gone by and dream about the days that lie ahead. What a good way to bring everything into perspective.

Squeeze In an End of Summer Picnic Experience

There are just a few weeks left before the pumpkin patches and hay rides take over; before green leaves give way to gorgeous hues of red, orange and yellow; or before I pull out my sweatshirts and get ready for football season with all its tailgating glory. There is an excitement about venturing into a new season. But I do want to fully enjoy the one I’m currently in. Therefore, I’m gonna try to squeeze a picnic or two in before summer gives way to the crisp air of Fall. I would love for you to join me.