As Summer Comes To A Close

August sunset by Tom York Images.

Many of you have children going back to school this week. Sweaters and book bags are filling the stores, and Halloween decor is already on sale at the hobby shops. But, hey! Summer isn't over yet, not until September 23rd. So, although Fall just may be the best time of year according to some (me included), let's not wish our lives away, but practice a little presence, and enjoy summer until it is gone; for surely then we will miss it as winter creeps in.


At six months pregnant in August, my life has consisted of staying inside of my extremely air conditioned house organizing every closet and drawer. To say my seasonal activities are off kilter would be an understatement. I can't remember the last time I spent this much time cooped up inside during the summer months, but my body just can't tolerate the heat right now so I must make the best of it. While I'm stuck inside I've decided to come up with a list of End Of Summer activities. This is my last summer before I become a mother after all, so I plan to take advantage of my solitude and flexible schedule. Below are the things I plan to do as summer dwindles away.

Swimming. Oh, to have my own personal swimming pool! I know what you're thinking...and yes, I live on a river; but swimming in river water in 100 degree heat isn't as appealing as a nice cool indoor pool when you're as big as a house. Besides, not everyone lives by a body of water so my suggestion is to seek out a local public pool. Here in Ozark, we have The OC. Adults swim for 7 dollars, kids for 5. Not exactly cheap for non-members, but it's the end of summer, and a few sessions at the pool won't break the bank. If you enjoy swimming and think you'd be interested in visiting The OC frequently, consider a membership and take advantage of the classes and equipment offered. 

Seasonal Foods. The bounty of summer is such a gift! Take the time to enjoy the foods that are in season before we enter the time of apples and winter squash. This year the only food I grew other than herbs are my tomatoes. The yield hasn't been as plentiful as last year, but still way more than Mark and I can eat between the two of us. Fortunately, a gopher has been helping us eat them--when he ate my hostas though, well that wasn't very helpful! Having a small garden this year hasn't stopped me from enjoying summer's tasty treats. I've enjoyed plenty of peaches, watermelon, cherries, etc. from the market and I encourage you to do the same while you still can! 

Ozark Downtown Farmers Market

Speaking of the market. The Farmers Market will be operating for a few more months still, but as we near autumn, the stands will be fewer and the choices far less. Now is the time to get out and stretch your legs, get some fresh air, enjoy the live music and buy some of those seasonal foods. The Ozark Downtown Farmers Market is located on the square on Wednesday nights from 4-7pm. 

Naps. I am not a napper. I love to nap, it's just that when I do, it usually messes my internal clock up and I know I will be up all night. During my pregnancy I have had insomnia. A night owl at heart, the past six months have been all about late nights in a bath reading, journaling, and movies. My sleep schedule is wack anyway; it is hot as Hades outside and for that I see no reason not to indulge in naps. Sneak one in where you can. Drop the kids off at school, have a big breakfast, watch a guilty pleasure tv show and then nap. Gotta go to work? Nap on the weekends. If you just don't have the time, I get it. I've been there too. Sometimes a nap just isn't going to be a part of your reality. Maybe you'll get to grab an afternoon snooze on Labor Day?

Labor Day Party. For many, Labor Day is the last celebration of summer. Here in the Midwest it means gathering friends and family for BBQ and beer. I'm not entirely sure I'll be up for throwing a big party this year, but I know I'd like to spend the day with some close family and friends, no matter how small or informal. This is a last chance to throw on a sun dress, take in the summer night air,  let the kids stay up late, and enjoy the sound of cicadas and crickets in the air with a cold lemonade in hand and good company at your side. 

Decorate. I'm far from a Martha Stewart for sure! But one of my favorite things to do is decorate for the season. After Labor Day anything patriotic comes down, the big flag on the pole out front, the red white and blue pinwheels in the planters by the stoop and anything else that screams high summer. Now is the time I slowly begin to transition the ambiance toward late summer and fall. Sunflowers are perfect for this time of year. They are cheerful and sunny, yet a fall flower too. They help start to bring in the yellow and golden tones that will be part of the fall color palate starting mid September through Thanksgiving. Now is the time I really enjoy my summer decorations before packing them away for next year. 

Have a beautiful rest of your summer! 

~ Love & Light ~