*If this is your first time checking out the Summer Bucket List Series, start with Week #1. Want to learn more about my #makeitcount ways? Follow me on Instagram or Join the Private Facebook Group I started called Empowering Kids with Character!
I love summer. I think being a teacher straight out of college then becoming self employed has made me a fan of the season since I’ve always had time off to enjoy it. I strive for balance with allowing my children to try new things in the summer months, to become bored (I think it’s healthy) and to have time to just p-l-a-y and c-r-e-a-t-e.
I am documenting our summer bucket list here. I started out the season by sharing how I plan for summer adventures in my video series. Then I spent time using pinterest and the lovely internet to plan out a variety of things to do. We never stick to a strict plan but if there’s a rainy day, you better believe I have an indoor backup activity versus too much screen time!
So let this series be an inspiration to you to live big and enjoy
the summer months with your loved ones!
Splash Pad Fun: We have a free splash pad near by us that we went to this week. I like the safety of being at this water park. There is no deep water to worry about with the children.
Slow Mornings: I’ve been hard on myself the last few weeks for not being consistent with my early morning work schedule. But I think it’s a much needed break from the busy times during the school year.
Farmer’s Market: We visited a different town’s market this week and purchased herbs to make a mini garden at our home. This is prime time in Michigan for fresh fruits and veggies.
Sunrise Bike Rides: Still enjoying my once a week bike rides with friends. This sunrise was the view from our 9 mile ride last week!
Springhill Day Camp: My daughter went to day camp last week at our church. It is filled with very active events like climbing walls, archery, water fun and teaching about the bible. As much as she loved her group and going to camp last week, she felt like she missed out on what her brother and sister and I were doing at home!
Out to Dinner: My husband had a work event this week one night so I treated myself and the kids to a dinner out at our favorite restaurant in town, Nordstrom Cafe.
Pinterest Fails: I have a binder filled with activities for us to do this summer. This sidewalk chalk art project was one I wanted to do. It was a super sunny day and my hopes of using this for a Holiday card this year are crushed!
Wedding Prep: On Saturday, the girls and I got our toenails painted in preparation for my sister’s wedding next weekend! We went with Auntie Angela to her last dress fitting. It’s all so exciting!
Michigan State University Tollgate Farm: We have an MSU owned and run farm about 2 miles from our house. They offer summer story times and themed mornings at the farm. Our two little ones and I went last week where the theme was plants. It was well done!
Running: I’ve had some health issues I’ve been dealing with the last 6 months. I am happy to say I had a second opinion last week and the surgeon gave me the okay to start running again. I run for sanity and clarity. I go about 3-4 miles, nothing serious. I hadn’t run in 9 weeks and my little guy and I went out for the first time during a heat wave. It was so hard but felt good at the same time to feel my body recovering and getting strong again!
Female Entrepreneur Meet-Up: This was the third meet-up I’ve hosted in our area. I learn a ton from each meeting but even more, I walk away SO INSPIRED and MOTIVATED to do better! If you want to know more about the next local meet up I host, sign up here.
The Lake: We have been swimming every other day this summer. In the past, it has been so hard with the baby. This year he has several months of swim lessons under his belt and is fearless to swim with his sisters! It’s been such a wonderful summer with the sunshine and blue skies. We entertain a ton but I try not to complain because I enjoy sharing our special space on the lake with others.
Sprinkler Fun: Our kids played in the sprinkler for what seemed like HOURS last weekend. Even our 7 year old! Old school fun is cheap and entertaining!