Taking Time: Simple Sweet Summer
Don't know about you but these busy times have us longing for some down home, sweet, simple fun of summers past. There's no reason why these too can't be considered "the good old days". We're taking some inspiration from our slower summer days to create a summer of good old-fashioned fun.What are your favorite summer memories? Let's slow down, take time and give them new life!
Waking up with a basic alarm clock!
Get those screens out of your bed (or your bedroom altogether if that's possible!) and wake up to a classic alarm clock. Sure, some summer days are meant for sleeping in, but probably not all of them. If you need a nudge to get up at a certain time -- set up a simple alarm clock by your bed instead. Not only will it remove that temptation to wake up and scroll for a while, but it will hopefully keep those middle of the night wake-ups free from distraction as well.
Homemade Waffles to start the day.
I'm sure you have a favorite childhood breakfast, but one of mine is homemade waffles my grandma would make in batches all summer long. We'd stay with her most days during the summer and she'd make and freeze them for the the days we were there. They are one of my most favorite memories of being there -- even more so now that I am older with kids of my own at home through summer. Not only did they taste great, but taking the time to make something from scratch was a labor of love that I can appreciate as such now myself.
Homemade Ice Cream
The process of making homemade ice cream is a delightful experience on its own. Whether you're making it solo, with friends, or teaching the next generation, there's something magical about transforming a few simple ingredients into a creamy treat. If you're adventurous, try new recipes or stick to the classic vanilla for a timeless taste. Share your stories of churning ice cream with vintage equipment, or use a nostalgic ice cream maker to recreate those cherished memories! For afternoon or evening treats, I can't think of much better than homemade ice cream. Add in some berry pie or cobbler and Yum! Homemade ice cream is the perfect nostalgic summer sweet, but even more is the process of making it. Whether just you, amongst friends, or passing down to kiddos of your own or in the neighborhood, there's not much cooler than seeing a few simple ingredients turn into something nearly everyone can enjoy.
If you're really feeling it, try new recipes, add in flavors and toppings -- or simply enjoy a classic vanilla.
Would love to see or hear your stories of making ice cream with vintage churns! If you can't put your hands on one of those though, this nostalgic ice cream maker does just a good enough job of bringing back those memories!
Berry Picking and Baking
With summer comes the season of berries. We love to give growing our own a try, each year, but still like to take a trip to the local berry farms in our area for a "real" picking experience - and to support our small family farms nearby. If you're ever in the midlands area of South Carolina, two of our favorite stops are Cottle Strawberry Farm and Berry Hill Farm for blueberries. The kids get to each pick a carton and we come home, make as many recipes as we can with what we got to have for dessert that week or give away to family and friends. We love strawberry pies, blueberry muffins, and blueberry cobbler. Any that are a little too ripe or leftover are divided into small freezer bags for smoothies in the future. It is truly a favorite tradition each year.
We love to spend our time outside as much as we can but summers in the south are especially hot. We recently spent our first Saturday of summer at the ballpark all. day. All I could think of by the end was how nice a cold shower or some cold sprinklers would feel when I got home. No it's not quite the same feeling jumping into the pool as it is having that constant stream of water to cool you off. There are a lot of fun contraptions out to make this happen, but there's no shame in setting up a chair outside with an old fashioned fan sprinkler by your side. Join the kids while they run through it or simply take a break and chill.
Hammock Time
If you just need a quiet moment or have time for some real relaxing, a hammock is the perfect spot. Any time I long for a nap - (and actually have the time to take one!), the hammock is my first choice. If it's too hot out there when that feeling arises, pull that sprinkler right on over beside you! I love a good porch swing -- and would really love a porch swing bed, but some of my most restful moments have come from simply taking some time to chill (or actually sleep!) in the hammock. The gentle sway, the sounds of nature, the wind, and the sun are sure to leave you feeling refreshed.
When dusk comes around
Evening Bike Rides
Hop on a cruiser bike and explore your neighborhood or local trails. Feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you pedal through familiar and new routes.
These are some of our favorite summer pastimes. By embracing these nostalgic activities, we hope you'll create a summer filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories, passing on the fun of times past with future generations. So, step back in time, and let the simple pleasures of the past inspire endless fun - or just help you chill and take a break this summer!
What are some of your favorites? We'd love to hear about them in the comments!
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