Hey hey! I’m stopping in today because I wanted to share some things that have been on my mind about summer. It’s in full swing here, despite the near-constant rain that is prohibiting us from frequenting the neighborhood pool so far. But then again, the rain is keeping the temps around 90 instead of 100 degrees so…silver lining?

I’m not one to pick a favorite season, because I really do like different things about each one. When I was a kid I loved summer. The heat didn’t phase me and of course I loved the break. I went to camp, swam, and hung out with my friends and brothers constantly. But I’ve noticed as I age summer goes down and down on the list of things I look forward to. Partly because of living in Houston where the heat and humidity are oppressive, and partly because I’m a working mom with little kids so while nothing really changes in our lives during summer, it seems like all around me people are off doing these fun things that we can’t do. And that might even get harder as the kids get older.

So this year, before I let it get to me, I’ve decided to embrace summer and make it special despite the relative same-ness of our schedules. I’m determined to come to love it and make it something to look forward to each year. This is what’s helping me:

1. Clothes

This has been one of my main issues with summer. I did a giant closet cleanout leaving things very bare in that department, and specifically I had very few things that are good for hot weather. So lately I’ve been making an effort to find some items that work, and I’ve had some success! I found some cute loose drawstring shorts at Kohl’s and a maxi dress and swimsuit at Costco. I’ve actually been really surprised at the clothes at Costco and I’m probably going to buy myself something there on each trip. Such cute basics at amazing prices.

2. Become a pool (and beach) mom

I’m sure I’ve linked to this post before, but it was probably the thing that started changing my whole attitude about summer. The plan is to have our pool bag packed and ready so that we can head to the pool (which is only a block away) at a moment’s notice, even on weeknights. Especially on week nights, since that’s when the kids are the most cranky anyway. We have some neighborhood friends that are up for going a lot with us, too.

We also live fairly close to the beach (maybe an hour or so away) and since David is big into saltwater fishing, he goes there a lot already. We are probably going to be making a trip at least every couple of weeks all summer long. I’ve always been hesitant to go because of the packing up, and the energy it takes, and the cleanup after. But it is always worth it, so I’m determined to tag along more often and invite friends! (Also hoping to get some color on my bright white skin!)

3. Grilling

We have had a grill for about eight years and we only just started using it a couple of weeks ago. Now that is sad. It’s a small charcoal grill, so not quite as simple as gas, but I think it makes things taste better. And after listening to the episode on Sorta Awesome about grilling, I’m even thinking about learning to use it myself.

4. Summer Bible study

At our new church (we have a new church! This is also exciting!) they do a women’s Bible study every summer. I thought it would be a good way to make friends, so I signed up even though I don’t know anyone who’s going. I have high hopes for it, and anticipate this being something I attend each summer.

5. Reading!

I’m really into reading right now. I mean, I’m pretty much always into reading, but lately it seems to be my only hobby. Since taking a break from blogging I haven’t been doing much else, but it’s been a good opportunity focus on family activities and self-care instead. Reading has filled in for my creative pursuits for the time being as my personal activity of choice. I’m excited that my book club chose two picks from the Modern Mrs. Darcy Summer Reading Guide for the next two months (Still Life by Louise Penny for June, and Before We Visit the Goddess by Chitra Divakaruni for July). I’ve got Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell coming to me for postal book club, I’m starting ANOTHER postal book club with a different group of friends, and I just picked back up on the Game of Thrones series with number four, A Feast For Crows, and I’m already so engrossed in that world again! So I’m pretty happy that this is something I can do at the pool, at the beach, and in any spare moment. :)

I’d love to hear what you think about summer, especially if you’re a working parent! And if you’ve found anything in particular that makes you love it more, please share. I want to make this a good one!